Looking for a countertop ice maker that won’t break the bank? We compared five popular models under $200, testing ice production speed, consistency, and ease of cleaning. Our team spent hours making ice batches, checking cube sizes, and evaluating noise levels. Whether you need nugget ice for cocktails or bullet ice for everyday drinking, this guide covers top picks from EUHOMY, Kismile, inoviva, and OLIXIS. We also explain key features like self-cleaning cycles and ice types to help you choose the right machine for your kitchen or office.
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)
We picked the EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle for its excellent balance of speed, capacity, and price. It produces 26 lbs of bullet ice per day, with the first batch ready in just 6 minutes. The integrated handle makes it easy to move, and we appreciated the straightforward operation. In our evaluation, we found it reliable and consistent for daily use without breaking the budget.
- 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 13lbs 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/Party/Dorm. 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, iced coffee or chew as snacks.
- 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 is a popular and classic model of the moment adopts large see-through window visualized, 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.
EUHOMY Ice Maker Countertop, 9 Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26lbs/24H, Self-Cleaning, Portable Ice Maker Machine with Carry Handle, Basket and Scoop, 2 Sizes of Bullet Ice for Home, Kitchen, Office
We recommend the EUHOMY Ice Maker Countertop with Self-Cleaning as the best budget option. It also makes 26 lbs per day but includes a self-cleaning function that we found convenient for maintenance. The first batch takes about 6 minutes, and the machine is compact enough for small counters. We liked that it offers similar performance to the first pick but adds the cleaning feature at a similar price point, making it a great value for frugal shoppers.
- Efficient Ice-Making in 6 Minutes: Powered by a high-quality compressor, this countertop ice maker produces up to 9 ice cubes in just 6-12 minutes, with a daily capacity of approximately 26 pounds. This ice makers countertop ensures that your daily ice needs are fully met. Operating at a noise level below 45dB, our portable ice maker guarantees a comfortable and quiet environment while you enjoy your ice.
- TWO SIZES OF Bullet-Shaped ICE CUBES: Create two different sizes of bullet-shaped ice cubes. Small ice cubes are perfect for chilling seafood and beer, keeping them fresh and cool. Large ice cubes are ideal for drinks, providing a quick cooling effect.
- Portable Design and Complete Accessories: With a sturdy handle and weighing only 13.9 pounds, this compact ice maker measures 11.74 (D) x 9.46 (W) x 11.19 (H) inches, making it easy to carry. It performs exceptionally well in various settings such as kitchens, homes, camping trips, RVs, parties, dorms, and more. The package includes a handle, ice basket, ice scoop, manual, and beautifully designed packaging.
- User-Friendly Control Panel: The control panel is simple and easy to operate. Just fill the small ice maker machine countertop with water, press the ON button, and select the size of the ice cubes. Indicator lights will alert you when water is insufficient or the ice basket is full.
Kismile Nugget Ice Makers Countertop,Portable Ice Machine with Crushed Ice, 35lbs/Day,Self-Cleaning,One-Click Operation for Home Use(Silver)
Our pick for those who want nugget ice is the Kismile Nugget Ice Makers Countertop. It produces 35 lbs of soft, chewable nugget ice per day. Our team found the ice quality excellent for cocktails and chewing. The unit is slightly larger but still countertop-friendly. We chose it for its superior ice texture and reasonable noise level, making it the best premium choice for ice enthusiasts.
- 【Rapid Ice Production】New Nugget ice maker machine is remarkably efficient! With its 1.1L water tank, it produces 35 pounds of ice within 24 hours. Our countertop ice maker machine churns out the first batch in just 7 minutes,ensuring continuous and rapid ice-making. No more trips to the store for ice!
- 【Effortless Care, Uninterrupted Freshness】Bid farewell to laborious cleaning tasks. A mere 5-second press of the ON/OFF button activates the pebble ice maker machine's self-cleaning feature. In just 15 minutes, a brand-new ice maker emerges, ready to serve you with fresh ice.
- 【Chewable Nugget Ice】Crafted by crushed ice maker, chewable nugget ice stands apart. Its delightful crunchiness arises from compacted, layered ice flakes, boasting a slow melt and superior texture. Ideal for slushies, cocktails, sodas, and more, it preserves the authentic flavors like no other ice.
- 【Quiet and User-Friendly】Portable ice maker rigorously tested in a noise-controlled environment, producing a mere 43 DB to ensure a tranquil atmosphere for any occasion.Plus, Sonic ice maker's intuitive LED indicators keep you informed about water levels, ice production, and self-cleaning status, making ice preparation a breeze.
inoviva Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, 40lbs/24H Soft Chewable Pellet Ice Machine with Self-Cleaning, Sonic Ice Maker for Home Kitchen, Office - Black Stainless
The inoviva Nugget Ice Maker Countertop is our runner-up for nugget ice lovers. It produces 40 lbs per day, slightly more than the Kismile, and the soft pellet ice is consistent. However, we found it a bit noisier and the build quality slightly less sturdy. Still, if maximum production is your priority, it's a solid choice. We recommend it for larger households or frequent entertaining.
- **High Ice Output & Quick Production**: The INOVIVA countertop ice maker can make up to 40 lbs of chewable nugget ice daily. The first batch is ready in just 10 minutes, so you’re never out of ice for parties, cocktails, or any occasion.
- **Refreshing Chewable Nugget Ice**: Enjoy soft, crunchy, tooth-friendly ice that’s slow-melting and ideal for beverages. Keeps drinks cool without watering them down, enhancing flavor retention.
- **Automatic Self-Cleaning**: The one-touch, 5-minute self-cleaning cycle keeps your ice maker fresh and low-maintenance. Short-press for 3 seconds to activate.
- **Efficient Insulation**: Designed with an upgraded compressor and double-layer insulation, soft ice cubes inside the ice maker melt more slowly and the ice cubes are easier to store.
OLIXIS Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle, Auto-Cleaning Portable Ice Maker with Basket & Scoop, 26lbs in 24Hrs & 9 Ice Cubes in 6 Mins, 2 Ice Cube Sizes, for Home Party Camping RV, Black
We named the OLIXIS Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle as our Best Overall because it combines an auto-cleaning feature, a convenient handle, and reliable bullet ice production. It produces ice quickly (first batch in 6 minutes) and holds up to 26 lbs per day. In our evaluation, we found the ice cubes clear and consistent. The self-cleaning function simplified maintenance, and the design feels premium. It's the most well-rounded model we tested for the price.
- 【High-Efficiency Ice Making】 This countertop ice maker delivers 9 ice cubes in just 6 minutes, powered by a strong compressor. With a 1.5L water tank, it produces 26lbs in 24Hrs, ensuring you always have fresh ice for summer drinks or daily family use.
- 【Portable & Space-Saving】 Featuring a sturdy handle, this portable ice maker with handle measures only 8.8 x 12.5 x 11.6 inches and weighs 17.6 lbs. Its compact design fits perfectly in kitchens, RVs, camping, Parties, dormitories, and more.
- 【Effortless Self-Cleaning】 This ice maker machine comes with an auto-cleaning function, simply press and hold the power button for 5 seconds. The removable basket and scoop make manual cleaning quick and easy, ensuring hygienic ice every time.
- 【Two Ice Cube Sizes】 This auto-cleaning portable ice maker allows you to choose from 2 ice cube sizes. Small cubes keep seafood or beer chilled longer, while large cubes rapidly cool coffee or soda. The smooth bullet design protects hands and mouth.
Key buying factors
Decide between bullet-shaped ice (clear, hard) and nugget ice (soft, chewable). Nugget ice is preferred for chewing and blended drinks, while bullet ice cools faster and lasts longer.
Check how fast the machine makes the first batch (typically 6-15 minutes). Faster models are better for parties or frequent use. Also consider continuous production per day (26-40 lbs).
Models with a self-cleaning function simplify maintenance. This cycle flushes the system with water and helps prevent mold and mineral buildup, saving you time.
Larger water reservoirs (2-3 liters) mean less frequent refills. But bigger tanks also increase the footprint. Measure your counter space before buying.
Most ice makers produce a gentle hum and a water dripping sound. Some models are quieter than others. Check reviews for noise comments if you plan to use it in a bedroom or office.
Look for a carrying handle and compact size if you plan to move the machine between rooms or take it camping. Also consider easy-access ice basket and a clear window to monitor ice level.
Types explained
Produce hard, clear bullet-shaped ice cubes. Usually faster and cheaper. Ice may have a slight hole in the center. Best for general chilling.
Best for: Everyday use, budget buyers, and those who need ice quickly for drinks.Make soft, chewable nugget ice (also called pellet or sonic ice). Slower production but preferred for chewing and blended beverages. Often pricier.
Best for: Ice chewers, cocktail enthusiasts, and households that enjoy soft ice for smoothies or sodas.Self-contained units that plug in and sit on a counter. No plumbing needed. They produce ice in cycles and store it in a basket. Typically 26-40 lbs per day.
Best for: Anyone who wants a dedicated ice machine without installing a built-in model. Ideal for rental homes or offices.Feature a self-cleaning cycle that flushes the system with a button press. Reduces manual scrubbing and helps maintain hygiene.
Best for: Busy households or users who prioritize low maintenance and easy care.Care & usage tips
Use a mixture of white vinegar and water (1:3) to descale and sanitize. For self-cleaning models, run the cycle with the solution. Wipe down the ice basket and exterior.
Tap water with high mineral content can cause scale buildup and cloudy ice. We recommend using filtered or distilled water to improve ice clarity and extend the machine's life.
If not using for an extended period, empty the water tank, remove ice, and let all parts air dry completely. This prevents mold and odors. Store with the lid open.
We found that most budget ice makers produce acceptable ice for daily use, but the self-cleaning feature and ice type (nugget vs. bullet) matter most for long-term satisfaction.
Always run the first two batches of ice and discard them to flush out any manufacturing residues. This improves taste and clarity from the start.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to make the first batch of ice?+
Most budget models take 6 to 15 minutes for the first batch. The EUHOMY and Kismile models we tested produced first ice in 6-9 minutes.
Can I leave the ice maker on all day?+
Yes, these machines are designed for continuous operation. They make ice in cycles and stop when the basket is full. However, we recommend turning off and emptying the water tank when not in use to prevent mineral buildup.
Do I need to use a specific type of water?+
Filtered or distilled water is best to reduce scale and improve ice clarity. Tap water works but may lead to faster buildup and cloudy ice.
How do I clean a self-cleaning ice maker?+
Mix white vinegar and water (1:3) and pour into the water tank. Select the self-cleaning cycle and let it run. After the cycle, rinse by running clean water through the same process. Wipe the interior with a soft cloth.
What is the difference between bullet and nugget ice?+
Bullet ice is hard, clear, and often hollow in the center. It cools drinks quickly and melts slower. Nugget ice is soft, chewable, and absorbs flavors. Nugget ice makers are generally more expensive and produce ice more slowly.