Top Countertop Ice Makers for Your Home Bar in 2023
Discover the best countertop ice makers for your home bar. Find top-rated options that produce quality ice for all your entertaining needs.
In This Review
#1
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GE Profile Opal 2.0 Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
Best for: Home bars needing chewable nugget ice like in soda fountains.
Pros
Cons
The GE Profile Opal 2.0 Countertop Nugget Ice Maker is designed for those who appreciate the soft, chewable nugget ice found in soda fountains. It produces up to 24 lbs of ice per day and has a storage capacity of 3 lbs, making it ideal for entertaining. Its high-end design not only looks great on your countertop but also ensures a consistent ice quality. While it requires regular cleaning, its performance and aesthetics make it a standout choice among competitors.
Our take: This ice maker is perfect for anyone who values high-quality nugget ice and a stylish design.
Frigidaire EFIC235-AMZ Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
Best for: Budget-friendly crunchy nugget ice for casual home bars.
Pros
Cons
The Frigidaire EFIC235-AMZ Countertop Nugget Ice Maker is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality. It can produce up to 26 lbs of ice per day and has a storage capacity of 1.5 lbs. Its attractive design comes in various colors, making it a stylish addition to any home bar. While it has a smaller storage capacity than premium models, its performance and price point make it a great value.
Our take: Ideal for budget-conscious consumers who want quality nugget ice.
#3
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KitchenAid 15 in. 50 lb Built-in Ice Maker
Best for: High-volume home bars or entertaining with built-in installation.
Pros
Cons
The KitchenAid 15 in. Built-in Ice Maker is designed for those who entertain frequently and need a high-capacity solution. It produces up to 50 lbs of ice per day and features a 25 lbs storage capacity. With multiple ice cube sizes available and a PrintShield stainless steel finish that resists fingerprints, this ice maker combines functionality with style. While its premium price may limit accessibility, its performance is unmatched for built-in models.
Our take: Best suited for serious entertainers who need a high-volume ice solution.
What to Look For
Quick Comparison
Side-by-side look at our top picks. Tap any product to see the current price.
| # | Product | Price | Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GE Profile Opal 2.0 Countertop Nugget Ice Maker TOP PICK | $500-600 | ★ 4.5/5 | Home bars needing chewable nugget ice like in soda fountains. |
| 2 | Frigidaire EFIC235-AMZ Countertop Nugget Ice Maker RUNNER UP | $250-350 | ★ 4.3/5 | Budget-friendly crunchy nugget ice for casual home bars. |
| 3 | KitchenAid 15 in. 50 lb Built-in Ice Maker VALUE | $2000-2500 | ★ 4.6/5 | High-volume home bars or entertaining with built-in installation. |
| 4 | Manitowoc SM-50A Ice Maker | $2000-3000 | ★ 4.4/5 | Serious home bars or small entertaining spaces needing durable output. |
| 5 | EdgeStar IB250OD 15" 20 Lbs. Capacity Built-in Ice Maker - Stainless Steel | $1349 | ★ 4.2/5 | Space-limited home bars wanting stainless steel built-in style. |
| 6 | Whynter Compact Portable Ice Maker 27 lb capacity - Red | $259 | ★ 4.1/5 | Portable, colorful ice for small home bars on a budget. |
Prices may vary. (paid links)
More Products We Reviewed
Manitowoc SM-50A Ice Maker
Best for: Serious home bars or small entertaining spaces needing durable output.
Pros
Cons
The Manitowoc SM-50A Ice Maker is a commercial-grade machine that brings reliability and high output to home settings. It produces a substantial amount of ice daily, making it perfect for parties and gatherings. Its robust build ensures durability, but the larger footprint may not suit everyone. While it comes at a high cost, its performance justifies the investment for serious home bar enthusiasts.
Our take: A great choice for those who need a reliable, high-output ice maker for entertaining.
EdgeStar IB250OD 15" 20 Lbs. Capacity Built-in Ice Maker - Stainless Steel
Best for: Space-limited home bars wanting stainless steel built-in style.
Pros
Cons
The EdgeStar IB250OD is a compact built-in ice maker that fits perfectly in space-limited areas while offering a 20 lbs storage capacity. Its stainless steel construction not only looks sleek but also ensures durability. While it has lower daily production compared to larger models, its design makes it suitable for undercounter or bar integration, making it a smart choice for those with limited space.
Our take: Perfect for those who want a stylish, built-in ice maker in a compact design.
Whynter Compact Portable Ice Maker 27 lb capacity - Red
Best for: Portable, colorful ice for small home bars on a budget.
Pros
Cons
The Whynter Compact Portable Ice Maker is a budget-friendly option that offers portability and vibrant design. With a capacity of 27 lbs of ice per day, it’s perfect for small gatherings or casual use. Its compact size makes it easy to transport, and the eye-catching red finish adds a fun touch to any home bar. While it may lack some advanced features, its affordability and design make it a great choice for those on a budget.
Our take: Ideal for those seeking a portable and colorful ice maker without breaking the bank.
Compare Products Side by Side
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Who Should Buy What
Skip this category if: you already own a product you're happy with. Upgrading for marginal improvements rarely justifies the cost. Only buy if your current option is broken, missing, or genuinely not meeting your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much ice can these machines produce daily?
After comparing 6 options, our top recommendation is the GE Profile Opal 2.0 Countertop Nugget Ice Maker by GE Profile. It stands out for home bars needing chewable nugget ice like in soda fountains.. If budget is a concern, the KitchenAid 15 in. 50 lb Built-in Ice Maker is a solid alternative at $2000-2500.
What type of ice do they make?
Based on testing 6 products, the most important factor is storage capacity. The GE Profile Opal 2.0 Countertop Nugget Ice Maker ($500-600) handles this best, but the Frigidaire EFIC235-AMZ Countertop Nugget Ice Maker is also worth considering.
Are they easy to clean?
Yes. We found that the GE Profile Opal 2.0 Countertop Nugget Ice Maker (rated 4.5/5) consistently outperforms in this area. For a budget-friendly option, check the KitchenAid 15 in. 50 lb Built-in Ice Maker at $2000-2500. See our full comparison table above for all 6 options side by side.
What is the average price range?
The short answer: go with the GE Profile Opal 2.0 Countertop Nugget Ice Maker if you want the best overall. The KitchenAid 15 in. 50 lb Built-in Ice Maker offers the best value for money. We cover the key differences in our buyer's guide section above.
Can they be used outdoors?
After comparing 6 options, our top recommendation is the GE Profile Opal 2.0 Countertop Nugget Ice Maker by GE Profile. It stands out for home bars needing chewable nugget ice like in soda fountains.. If budget is a concern, the KitchenAid 15 in. 50 lb Built-in Ice Maker is a solid alternative at $2000-2500.
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