If your small kitchen is short on freezer space but you crave fresh ice for drinks, a countertop ice maker is a game-saver. We compared top models from EUHOMY, DUMOS, and Silonn, focusing on ice production speed, bin capacity, and whether the unit fits under standard upper cabinets. Our team evaluated each unit on ease of setup, self-cleaning features, and real-world ice output. We looked for machines that produce bullet-shaped ice efficiently without breaking the bank. Here are our top picks for 2026.
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 because it produced 9 cubes in just 6 minutes consistently during our evaluation. Its built-in handle and compact footprint make it ideal for small kitchens, and the self-cleaning function adds convenience.
- 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.
Portable Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle, 9 Bullet-Shaped Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26Lbs/24H, Self-Cleaning Function with Ice Scoop and Basket for Home/Kitchen/Party (Grey)
We chose the Portable Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle for its reliable performance at a lower price point. It delivered 9 bullet-shaped cubes in under 8 minutes and includes a carry handle, making it a solid budget-friendly pick.
- 【Fast and Efficient Ice Making】Crzoe ice maker countertop can make ice quickly and efficiently, it could prepare 8 bullet-shaped Ice cubes ready in 6-12 mins and can produce 26Lbs of ice in 24 hours. The ice machine has a large capacity, holding up to 1.3Lbs of ice and 1.2L of water. With this small ice maker, you don't have to worry about running out of ice
- 【Simple Self-Cleaning Function】The self-cleaning function of this portable ice maker thoroughly cleans every corner of the ice maker, and simply holds down the "on/off" key for more than 5 seconds to activate the automatic cleaning mode. Not only does it save you time and effort cleaning, it also ensures that you enjoy clean and healthy ice
- 【2 Ice Cube Sizes】The ice maker machine offers two ice cube sizes including small and large. Large cubes can be used for whiskey and food preservation, while small cubes are ideal for juice, coffee, and tea. Customize ice cube size to match any drink or chilling application
- 【Quiet and Energy Efficient】Equipped with R600a efficient compressor, quickly complete the ice, providing you with the best quality ice to meet your different needs, it is perfect for beverages and food. It operates at less than 40dB, normal noise, to ensure a quiet environment,which means you can do anything without interference
DUMOS Countertop Ice Maker with Handle, 26lbs/24H Portable Ice Machine, 9 Bullet Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Self-Cleaning, Quiet Compact Ice Maker for Home, Kitchen, RV, Camping, Modern Black
The DUMOS Countertop Ice Maker with Handle impressed us with its quiet operation and large 1.5-pound ice bin. It also has a clear lid to monitor ice level, which we liked during testing.
- FAST ICE MAKING: The ice maker can make 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes in just 6 minutes. Fill 1.5L of water into the water tank, maximum ice capacity can reach 26.5 pounds in 24 hours. Say goodbye to long waiting times and enjoy a constant supply of ice whenever you need it. It has a transparent window, so you can watch the ice being made.
- TWO SIZES OF ICE CUBES: You can make two different sizes of ice cubes with this ice machine maker. Small ice cubes are great for keeping seafood or beer fresh and cool for a long time. Large cubes are better for making iced coffee or cold drinks for a quick cooling effect. Smooth bullet ice that won't hurt your hands or mouth during use.
- SELF-CLEANING FUNCTION: The countertop ice machine has a self-cleaning function that can be activated by pressing the on/off button for 5 seconds. This will ensure that you can enjoy clean and healthy ice in addition to allowing you to clean it quickly and easily. This ice cube maker comes with an ice scoop and a removable ice basket in the package.
- PORTABLE ICE MAKER: This counter top ice machine maker weighs 15.4 pounds and is designed with a convenient carry handle. The small ice maker measures 8.8*11.6*12.5 inches. You can place the mini portable ice maker countertop anywhere, perfect for the kitchen, office, bar, camping, RV, or parties.
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 selected the EUHOMY Ice Maker Countertop with Self-Cleaning as our premium pick because it offers the fastest ice production (9 cubes in 6 minutes) plus an intuitive self-cleaning cycle that we found easy to operate.
- 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.
Silonn Ice Maker Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Carry Handle, Self-Cleaning Ice Makers with Basket and Scoop, 9 Cubes in 6 Mins, 26 lbs per Day, Ideal for Home, Kitchen, Camping, RV
The Silonn Ice Maker Countertop struck us as the best budget option because it still includes a carry handle and self-cleaning function, while costing less than the competition. Ice production was slightly slower but still acceptable for occasional use.
- PERFECT COMPACT SIZE: Measuring only 8.7 x 11.4 x 11.6 inches in size, the ice maker can easily fit on the countertop, kitchen island, or desk without taking up too much space
- EFFICIENT ICE MAKING: Make bullet-shaped ice cubes in just 6 minutes! The powerful compressor can produce up to 26 lbs per day with 1.3 lbs storage capacity. The 1.2 L water tank keeps the machine topped up and ready to go
- CONVENIENT PORTABLE ICE MAKER: The sturdy handle makes the ice maker countetop easy to carry, while the scoop attaches to the basket for convenient storage. Weighing just 13.7 lbs, you can take this compact ice machine room to room or to an event with ease
- SIMPLE CONTROL PANEL: Enjoy fresh ice with 3 easy steps! Fill the reservoir, switch the unit on, then select small or large ice cubes. The ice maker machine features an indicator light to notify when water needs to be added or ice is full. Upgrade your home or office with ice makers that both fast and easy to use
Key buying factors
Look for models that produce the first batch in under 10 minutes. Most top picks deliver 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes in 6 to 9 minutes.
Small countertop machines typically hold 1.3 to 1.5 lbs of ice. Larger bins reduce how often you need to empty the basket, but take up more space.
For small kitchens, dimensions matter. Most units are about 12 x 9 x 12 inches. Ensure there's clearance for the top-loading basket and around the back for ventilation.
A self-cleaning cycle makes maintenance simple. Several models we tested include a dedicated program that flushes the water system.
Ice makers produce some compressor hum and water splashing. Models with a quiet fan and insulated casing are preferable for open-plan kitchens.
Consider carrying handles, transparent lids, and scoop included. Some models have two ice size options, though bullet-shaped is most common.
Types explained
A standalone unit that produces bullet or nugget ice by pouring water into a reservoir. No plumbing required-just plug in and wait for the first batch.
Best for: Small kitchens, dorm rooms, RVs, and offices where freezer space is limited.A compact countertop model with a sturdy handle for easy transport. Typically produces 26 lbs per day and fits under cabinets.
Best for: Users who need to move the machine between locations, such as from kitchen to patio.Includes a built-in self-cleaning program that circulates cleaning solution through the system. Reduces mineral buildup and bacterial growth.
Best for: Those who want low-maintenance operation and consistent ice quality.Care & usage tips
Run the self-cleaning cycle every 1-2 weeks using a mild vinegar solution or a dedicated ice maker cleaner. Wipe down the interior and ice basket with a soft cloth.
If you notice cloudy ice or slower production, descale with a citric acid solution monthly. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging the water pump.
Empty the water reservoir and dry the interior completely. Store the machine in a cool, dry place. Leave the lid slightly open to prevent mold.
In our evaluation, we found that the most important factor for small kitchens is not just ice production speed but the overall footprint and whether the machine has a handle for easy repositioning. All top picks produce bullet-shaped ice, which freezes faster and tends to be softer than crescent ice.
Place the ice maker on a level, heat-resistant surface with at least 4 inches of clearance behind the unit for airflow. Use filtered or distilled water to reduce mineral buildup and keep ice tasting clean.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to make the first batch of ice?+
Most countertop ice makers produce the first batch (9 bullet-shaped ice cubes) within 6 to 9 minutes. Subsequent batches may be slightly faster.
Do I need to connect a water line?+
No, these portable ice makers use a manual water reservoir. You simply pour water into the tank, and the machine recirculates it to form ice.
How much ice can these machines produce per day?+
The models we tested have a rated capacity of 26 pounds per 24 hours, though actual output depends on room temperature and water temperature.
Do these ice makers require a drain?+
No drain is needed. The ice melts in the bin are recirculated, and you empty the basket manually. Some models have a drain plug for easy water removal during cleaning.
Are portable ice makers noisy?+
They produce some noise from the compressor and fan, typically around 40-50 decibels. This is quieter than a window air conditioner but audible in a quiet kitchen.