Do you love to entertain guests or enjoy chilled drinks on a hot summer day? If so, then having an ice maker is a must-have appliance in your home. Portable ice makers have become increasingly popular due to their convenience and efficiency in producing ice within minutes. However, with the multitude of options available on the market, finding the best portable ice maker can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to share Consumer Reports’ top picks for the best portable ice makers in 2021! From compact designs to high-capacity models, read on to learn everything you need to know before making your purchase.
Top 10 Portable Ice Makers
*Note: Score is based on our AI score (Editor’s choice and rating).
Countertop Ice Maker, Ice Maker Machine 6 Mins 9 Bullet Ice, 26.5lbs/24Hrs, Portable Ice Maker Machine with Self-Cleaning, Ice Bags, Ice Scoop, and Basket, Ice Maker for Home/Kitchen/Office/Party/RV
$89.99 in stock
1 used from $67.11
Features
- [Ice Making in 6 Minutes] This countertop ice maker can produce 9 round-shaped ice cubes in just 6 minutes, and up to 26.5 pounds of ice in 24 hours. The round-shaped ice cubes will cool down your drinks. With its production of ice, this portable ice maker machine countertop is suitable for home parties. Invite your family and friends over for a fun and refreshing ice drink time
- [Smart & Simple Operation] The indicator on the portable countertop ice machine will alert you when the basket is full and will remind you to add water when the ice machine is running low. All you need to do to make ice is add water and turn on the switch. It has a transparent window, so you can watch the ice being made
- [Condensing Fan & Low Noise] This portable ice maker countertop is equipped with new condensing technology and a silent fan, which enables the water to condense and freeze into ice. It operates at a low noise level of less than 45 decibels, making it a quiet addition to your home that won't disturb your daily life or your family's
- [Portable & Compact] This ice machine maker countertop weighs 14.74 pounds and is designed with a convenient carry handle. The small ice maker measures 8.7*11.6*11.4 inches. This ice machine maker is suitable for taking on the go, such as for camping, patio parties, or camping in the park. It is the companion for enjoying life's special moments
- [Self-cleaning Function] The ice maker countertop has a self-cleaning function that can be activated by pressing the on/off button for 5 seconds. This will allow you to clean it quickly and easily. The self cleaning ice makers countertop will ensure that every iced drink you make is healthy
Silonn Ice Maker Countertop, 9 Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26lbs in 24Hrs, Self-Cleaning Ice Machine with Ice Scoop and Basket, 2 Sizes of Bullet Ice for Home Kitchen Office Bar Party
$94.98 in stock
4 used from $70.79
Features
- Note : Please check the dimension and item weight of the product and confirm it fits your space.Ice - Making Current : 1.7 A, Ice - Harvest current : 2.0 A..Refrigerant : R600a
- FAST ICE MAKER: The Silonn ice maker only takes 6 minutes to make 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes. Fill 2L of water into the water tank, maximum ice capacity can reach 26 pounds in 24 hours.
- TWO SIZES OF ICE CUBES: You can make two different sizes of ice cubes. Small ice cubes can chill seafood and beer keeping it fresh and cold. Large ice cubes are more suitable for beverages to achieve a rapid cooling effect.
- QUIET AND USER FRIENDLY: When making ice cubes, the noise is lower than 35dB, similar to a working refrigerator. The transparent lid allows you to monitor the ice capacity. The sensor automatically detects when ice is full and stops producing to prevent overflowing.
- EASY TO CONTROL: The control panel is very easy to operate. Fill the ice maker with water, press the ON button, select the size of the ice cubes and that’s it. When the water is insufficient or the ice basket is full, the indicator light will turn on.
EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle, 26lbs in 24Hrs, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Auto-Cleaning Portable Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Kitchen/Camping/RV. (Black)
$79.94 in stock
Features
- 6 Mins Ice-Making & Ultra Quieter: Our Euhomy ice maker only takes 6mins that will enjoy the first batch of fresh bullet ice. With a 1.2L water tank and powerful compressor, the portable ice maker easily makes maximum ice capacity to 26lbs ice per day and holds up to 1.3lbs ice at a time. Also, our ice maker is not only excellent in refrigeration, but also at less than 45db normal noise, ensuring a comfortable and quiet environment to enjoy ice-making, similar to a working freezer.
- Portable Design & Perfect Bullet Ice: Our ice maker comes with a sturdy handle, weighs only 13.89lbs and with compact size 11.57(L)*11.42(W)*8.74(H)in. Those features make ice maker easy to carry and perform well on any occasions like Kitchen/Home/Camping/RV. Also, the newly designed countertop ice maker produce the most popular bullet-shaped smooth ice cubes, which won't stick together easily or hurt your hands or mouth even are perfect for cold drinks or iced coffee.
- Smart Operation & Self-Cleaning: The ice maker has advanced infrared sensor. The "ICE FULL" indicator flashes remind you to take out ice to prevent overflowing when the basket is full. And it'll remind you to add water by flashing "ADD WATER". Additionly, the compact ice maker has a one-touch auto-cleaning function. Press the “ON/OFF” for 5s after adding water to run automatic mode for 30mins. Not only are your hands-free but also you get a clean ice maker.
- User Friendly & Simple Operation: Euhomy ice maker adopts large see-through window visualized design, allowing viewing of the interior ice-making. Equipped with a 170w upgraded compressor that 4kWh/24H energy consumption to save your electricity bills. And with a easy-to-operate controlable panel for faster operation in just two steps, adding water and press "ON/OFF". Then our ice maker will provide you fresh bullet ice for you and your member timely.
- Superior Quality & Warranty Promise: Include handle, ice basket, ice scoop, manual and well-designed package can as gifts. Our Mission is committed to providing customers with premium Euhomy ice maker at a reasonable price. You totally deserve a more exquisite life! We offer ① 12-month warranty from the original purchase date; ② Lifetime technical service support. Suppose you have any questions about using our Ice Maker, Our 7*24-hour customer support is always ready to help you!
ecozy Portable Countertop Ice Maker - 9 Ice Cubes in 6 Minutes, 26 lbs Daily Output, Self-Cleaning with Ice Bags, Scoop, and Basket for Kitchen, Office, Bar, Party - Black
$89.99 in stock
2 used from $76.79
Features
- Rapid 6-Min Ice - Enjoy perfect ice in a flash with this countertop ice maker. With 6-minute cycles, get 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes at a time and produce up to 26lbs of ice per day. Say goodbye to buying ice forever!
- Quiet & User-Friendly - Experience ice-making tranquility with this whisper-quiet machine, under 35dB, comparable to a running fridge. Infrared sensors stop ice production when full, and a low water reminder makes it stress-free
- Store Ice in Fridge - If the ice cubes in the basket are not used for a while, they will melt. Use the included ice bags and scoop to transfer them to the refrigerator for later use
- Effortless Self-cleaning - The Self-cleaning feature thoroughly cleans every nook and cranny of the ice maker with circulating water. We suggest washing the machine before long-term storage and ensuring it is dry inside
- 2 Ice Size Available - Get perfectly chilled drinks with two ice sizes to choose from. Small cubes for chilling seafood and beer, large cubes for beverages. Enjoy refreshing drinks with family and friends
Igloo Automatic Ice Maker, Self- Cleaning, Countertop Size, 26 Pounds in 24 Hours,9 Large or Small Ice Cubes in 7 Minutes,LED Control Panel, Scoop Included,Perfect for Water Bottles,Mixed Drinks,Black
$100.61 in stock
7 used from $73.00
Features
- Note : Please check the dimension and item weight of the product and confirm it fits your space
- MADE FOR CONVENIENCE: Portable, sleek, convenient, and compact in size, the Igloo Ice Maker is suited for any sized countertop space for producing perfectly formed ice cubes wherever and whenever you need it
- HIGH ICE YIELD: The water tank can hold up to 1.5 quarts of water; keep it filled and this unit will produce 26 pounds of ice in a 24-hour period. That’s enough ice to keep drinks refreshingly cold all day long.
- EFFICIENT PRODUCTION: 120 Watts powers this machine to make 9 small or large cylinder-shaped ice cubes in as little as 7 minutes. The automatic ice maker will keep making ice until the ice basket is completely full.
- 2 ICE CUBE SIZES: Choose small or large cylindrical ice cube sizes using the easy-to-use control panel according to your preference.
FRIGIDAIRE EFIC189-Silver Compact Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day, Silver (Packaging May Vary)
Features
- Note : Please check the dimension and item weight of the product and confirm it fits your space.Rated power : 105W..Refrigerant : R600a
- MODERN DESIGN: Ice Maker with a large transparent window so you can always see your ice being made and the level.
- COMPACT & EASY: Frigidaire's countertop portable ice maker offers a wide range of uses with a compact dimension 9.5 in. (W) x 14.1 in. (D) 12.9 in. (H) Our countertop ice maker is portable and compact, making it simple to transport and use.
- EFFICIENCY: Each 5-6 minute cycle produces 9 ice cubes, with a total capacity of 26lbs in 24 hours. When unused ice melts, the machines recycle the water to produce a fresh batch of ice. At any time, you may enjoy fresh ice.
- FUNCTIONALITY: When the basket is full, our ice maker indicators will remind you to take out the ice cubes, and when the ice maker is low on water, it will alert you to add more.
Portable Countertop Ice Maker with Handle - 44lb. Daily Output, Ice Bullets Ready in 6 Minutes - Electric & Compact Bullet Ice Maker Machine for Home, Kitchen Tabletop, Camping, RV, Bar, Party
Features
- Make Restaurant Quality ice At The Touch of a Button: Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a tailgate, or simply enjoying a relaxing day at home, this little powerhouse delivers ice on demand.
- Super fast: One of the standout features of our countertop ice maker is its impressive speed. Within just 6 minutes, you can have a batch of refreshing ice cubes ready to cool down your drinks. No more waiting around or settling for lukewarm beverages.
- Churns out a whopping 44 pounds of ice a day: With a capacity to produce 22-44 pounds of ice in 24 hours, our ice maker machine is ideal for busy offices, parties, BBQ get-togethers and big families that go through a lot of ice.
- Comfort Grip Handle for Seamless Transport: At just over 11 inches high, our portable ice maker will fit under most kitchen cabinets. You can bring it all over the house, from the kitchen to the backyard, or even on camping, RV trips, tailgating, or anywhere where you might end up in the hot summer weather.
- Simple and Hassle Free: Our countertop ice machine requires no installation. Just plug in, add water and wait for a few minutes to enjoy the first batch of fresh ice. With intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface, anyone can effortlessly operate our electric ice maker.
Silonn Countertop Ice Maker, 9 Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26lbs in 24Hrs, Self-Cleaning Ice Machine with Ice Scoop and Basket, 2 Sizes of Bullet Ice for Home Kitchen Office Bar Party, Black
5 used from $63.93
Features
- Note : Please check the dimension and item weight of the product and confirm it fits your space.Ice - making current : 1.5A, Ice - harvest current : 1.8A, Working Power : ≤160W..Ice-harvesting Current : 1.8 amps
- FAST ICE MAKER: The Silonn countertop ice maker only takes 6 minutes to make 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes. Fill the water into the water tank, maximum ice capacity can reach 26 pounds in 24 hours.
- TWO SIZES OF ICE CUBES: You can make two different sizes of ice cubes. Small ice cubes can chill seafood and beer keeping it fresh and cold. Large ice cubes are more suitable for beverages to achieve a rapid cooling effect.
- EASY CARRY DESIGN: Silonn ice maker machine is portable with size of 11 x 9 x 11 inches. Our ice maker also has a sturdy handle that makes carrying from room to room even place to place a breeze. Have ice anywhere, anytime.
- QUIET AND USER FRIENDLY: When making ice cubes, the noise is lower than 35dB, similar to a working refrigerator. The transparent lid allows you to monitor the ice capacity. The sensor automatically detects when ice is full and stops producing to prevent overflowing.
ecozy Portable Ice Makers Countertop, 44lbs Per Day, 24 Cubes Ready in 13 Mins, Self-Cleaning Ice Maker with Ice Bags/Ice Scoop/Ice Basket for Home Office Bar Party, Stainless Steel
Features
- Never Run Out of Ice - Equipped with a powerful compressor, this countertop ice maker takes only 13 minutes to get 24 delicious ice cubes per cycle. It can produce up to 44lbs of ice in 24 hours. With this low noise(less than 45db) ice maker, you could get the fresh ice whenever you want
- Contains Ice Bags & Ice Scoop - The ice maker countertop comes with 3 ice bags, a standing ice scoop, and a detachable ice basket. The ice cubes in the ice basket will melt if not used for a long time, so the ice bags can be used to transfer the ice cubes to the refrigerator for the next use. The unique stand-up design of the ice scoop is hygienic and easy to storage
- 2 Ways to Add Water - Bottle Not Included - The ice maker supports two ways of adding water, manual or bottled water supply. The tank can hold up to 3.4qt of water, minimising the frequency of refills. You can also insert a 1 gallon drinking water bucket into the ice maker water tank. You don't have to worry about not having enough water to make ice cubes
- Convenient Self-cleaning Function - The self-cleaning function can deeply clean every corner of the ice maker through the water circulation. We recommend that when the machine is not used for a long time, be sure to wash it first and then ensure that the inside of the machine is dry before storing it
- Safe & Durable Material - The surface of the ecozy portable ice maker is constructed with a sturdy stainless steel casing, which is corrosion-resistant, stylish, durable, and can replace your built-in fridge ice maker for longer use. The appearance is smooth and easy to clean, and it can also be used with various countertops
What Are Portable Ice Makers?
Portable ice makers are compact, countertop appliances that allow you to produce ice quickly and easily. These nifty machines eliminate the need for bulky freezer trays or expensive built-in ice makers in your fridge. With a portable ice maker, all you have to do is add water into the reservoir and wait for it to freeze.
Once frozen, the machine uses an electric motor and heating element to release the ice from its mold and drop it into a storage basket below. Most models can produce anywhere between 20-35 pounds of ice per day, depending on their size and capacity.
Portable ice makers come in various styles ranging from sleek stainless steel designs to colorful options that match your kitchen decor or personal style preferences. They offer convenience not only at home but also when traveling on road trips or camping adventures where access to refrigeration may be limited.
These handy little appliances can make any gathering more enjoyable by providing fresh, cold drinks without having to run back-and-forth between your kitchen and outdoor space!
How Do Portable Ice Makers Work?
Portable ice makers are innovative and convenient appliances that allow you to enjoy cold drinks without having to make a trip outside or to the store. But how exactly do they work? Well, it’s all about the process of freezing and thawing water.
Portable ice makers have an internal reservoir that holds water. When turned on, a small pump draws water from this reservoir into the machine’s freezing chamber where it is sprayed onto a metal plate that is cooled by refrigerant coils.
As the sprayed water freezes on contact with the plate, more layers of ice build up until cubes form. Once fully formed, these cubes are released into a storage bin which can hold several pounds of ice at once.
Most portable ice machines have sensors that detect when the bin is full and automatically turn off the ice-making cycle until some of its contents are removed. Some models even offer different cube sizes depending on your preference!
Portable ice makers work through clever engineering and simple physics principles- making them an essential item for anyone who enjoys refreshingly cold beverages anytime they want!
The Different Types of Portable Ice Makers
Portable ice makers come in various types, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences. The most common type is the countertop model that can produce up to 35 pounds of ice per day. This style is ideal for small families or those who entertain guests regularly.
Another option is a compact portable ice maker, which produces about half as much ice as the countertop model but takes up less space. These models are perfect for individuals living alone or couples with minimal freezer storage.
For those looking for more versatility, there are also portable ice makers that can make both regular cubes and bullet-shaped nuggets. These dual-function machines allow you to switch between cube sizes depending on your preference.
If you’re someone who enjoys flavored drinks, then a portable ice maker with an integrated water dispenser may be what you need. These models can dispense both hot and cold water while producing fresh ice quickly.
There are outdoor portable ice makers suitable for camping trips and backyard barbecues. They usually have rugged designs that can withstand extreme temperatures and rough handling.
Choosing the right type of portable ice maker depends on your specific needs and lifestyle requirements. By understanding the differences among these types of machines, you’ll be able to find one that suits your needs perfectly!
Factors to Consider Before Buying Portable Ice Makers
When it comes to buying a portable ice maker, there are certain factors you should consider before making your purchase. These factors can not only help you choose the right model for your needs but also ensure that you get the most value for your money.
One of the first things to consider is the capacity of the ice maker. How much ice do you need on a daily basis? If you’re planning on using it at home or in a small office, then a smaller machine might be sufficient. However, if you’re running a larger operation or frequently hosting events, then opting for an ice maker with higher production capacity would be wise.
Another important factor to keep in mind is portability and ease-of-use. Some models come equipped with wheels and handles for easy movement while others may require more effort to transport. Make sure that whatever model you choose fits well into your lifestyle and how often it will need to be moved around.
The type of ice produced by each machine can also vary greatly between models which may impact its functionality depending on what it will be used for. Consider whether cubed or crushed ice would work better for your intended use as some machines specialize in one style over another.
Take into account any additional features offered by various models such as self-cleaning functions or timers that allow greater control over when new batches of ice are made so that they align with peak demand times throughout the day.
By considering these factors before purchasing a portable ice maker, buyers can make informed decisions based on their needs and requirements rather than just picking something up randomly off store shelves without proper research beforehand.
Benefits of Using Portable Ice Makers
There are plenty of benefits to owning a portable ice maker. First and foremost, it provides a convenient way to make ice at home or on the go. You no longer have to worry about running out of ice during parties or events since you can easily make more whenever you need it.
Another benefit is that portable ice makers are typically compact in size and easy to store when not in use. This makes them perfect for small apartments, dorm rooms, RVs, and other spaces where storage may be limited.
Portable ice makers also offer a cost-effective solution compared to buying bags of ice from the grocery store. Over time, the money saved from making your own ice can really add up!
In addition, many portable ice makers have features such as automatic shut-off when the bin is full or low water indicators that prevent overflows and help conserve energy.
Having an onsite source for fresh clean drinking water with built-in filtration systems such as offered by some models helps ensure access to safe drinking water especially during emergencies like natural disasters.
Owning a portable icemaker offers numerous convenience-based advantages which will definitely come handy throughout its lifetime while being budget-friendly!
The Pros and Cons of Portable Ice Makers
Portable ice makers can be a convenient addition to any home or office space. They come with their own set of pros and cons that you should consider before making a purchase.
The Pros:
One of the biggest advantages of portable ice makers is their convenience. They are compact, lightweight, and easy to move around. You don’t need any special plumbing or installation, simply plug them in and you’re ready to go. Portable ice makers can produce a large amount of ice quickly and efficiently without taking up too much space.
Another advantage is cost savings in the long run as they eliminate the need for constantly buying bagged ice from stores which adds up over time. Moreover, they provide fresh-tasting ice that doesn’t have any added chemicals like some store-bought bags may contain.
The Cons:
While there are many benefits of using portable ice makers, there are also some drawbacks that you should keep in mind when considering purchasing one. One disadvantage is that they tend to make noise while producing ice due to compressors working inside them.
Another downside is their limited storage capacity; most models only hold between 2-3 lbs of ice at one time which isn’t enough if you’re throwing parties often or needing large amounts on daily basis.
Because portable machines do not have built-in water filtration systems it’s important to use filtered water so your machine operates properly longer.
It’s important to weigh both the pros and cons before deciding whether a portable icemaker will suit your needs. If convenience outweighs its limitations then these machines could be an excellent investment for anyone looking for easily accessible fresh-tasting frozen goodness whenever needed!
How to Care for Your Portable Ice Makers
Proper care and maintenance of your portable ice maker is essential to ensure it lasts for a long time and functions efficiently. Here are some tips on how to care for your portable ice makers:
Always keep the unit clean. Before and after using it, make sure that you wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and dish soap while making sure not to get water inside the machine.
Regularly empty out any unused ice from the storage bin as this helps prevent clumping or melting of unused cubes.
Inspect your machine’s water supply line frequently especially if you have hard water in your area since mineral build-up can clog up internal components which can lead to malfunctioning.
Fourthly, replace any worn-out parts such as filters or hoses immediately upon noticing any signs of wear or damage.
Store your machine properly when not in use by unplugging it from its power source and storing it upright so that no residual moisture remains within its internals. By following these simple steps consistently, you’ll be able to enjoy perfectly chilled drinks every time without worrying about damages!
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Proper installation and maintenance of your portable ice maker can significantly increase its lifespan. First, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting up your machine. This will typically involve finding a level surface to place it on, plugging it in, and filling the water reservoir.
Regular cleaning is also essential for keeping your portable ice maker running smoothly. Be sure to empty the ice basket frequently and wipe down any spills or drips with a damp cloth. You may also want to invest in a specialized cleaner designed specifically for use with portable ice makers.
Another important factor to consider when maintaining your machine is water quality. Hard water can cause mineral buildup that can clog your machine over time, so be sure to use filtered or distilled water whenever possible.
Don’t forget about regular maintenance tasks like checking hoses and connections for leaks or wear and tear. By staying on top of these simple tasks, you’ll ensure that your portable ice maker keeps producing fresh ice for years to come!
Tips For Setting Up Your Portable Ice Makers
Setting up your new portable ice maker can be a breeze if you follow some tips to make the process smoother. First, make sure to read the manual carefully before attempting to set it up. This will ensure that you have all of the necessary tools and information required.
Next, position your ice maker in a location where there is adequate ventilation and access to electricity. Avoid placing it near heat sources or direct sunlight as this may affect its performance.
Before turning on your machine, clean the water reservoir thoroughly with warm soapy water and rinse it well. Fill up the reservoir with fresh water up until its maximum capacity level, ensuring that you do not overfill it.
Once everything is set-up correctly, turn on your portable ice maker and wait for about 10-15 minutes for it to adjust properly before using it for your first batch of ice cubes.
Remember always to leave enough space around the machine’s vents for air circulation while working continuously. Regular cleaning helps keep your device running smoothly by removing any mineral buildup from calcium deposits or mold growth inside the device.
Remember always to refer back to the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance schedules or troubleshooting guidelines if needed in case something goes wrong during use!
I’m Ella Andrews, owner of the website https://bestconsumerstips.com/
I give you valuable information about good products to help you choose the best product.