Best countertop ice makers for 2026
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
For most households, the Frigidaire EFIC189 is the best all-around countertop ice maker, blending speed, reliability, and a reasonable footprint.
If you crave soft chewable nuggets, the GE Profile Opal is the top choice; the Igloo ICEB26HNSS wins for bargain hunters; the NewAir AI-100SS is a quiet runner-up; and the Euhomy is a solid editor’s pick for small kitchens.
Countertop ice makers have turned from novelty to necessity for anyone who entertains often or simply hates running out of ice on a hot day. Unlike a freezer’s slow, often-stale cubes, these machines crank out fresh ice in as little as ten minutes and let you choose between bullet, cube, or nugget shapes. The category has exploded in the last few years, so picking the right one means thinking about batch size, noise, and whether you want self-cleaning cycles or Wi‑Fi connectivity. Start by deciding what kind of ice you prefer, bullet ice is fast and cheap, nugget ice is soft and crunchy, and traditional cubes melt slower. Next, consider the ice production rate and storage capacity: most models make between 25 and 50 pounds per day and hold a couple of pounds in the basket. Also weigh whether you’ll use the included scoop and whether the machine fits under your cabinets. A good countertop ice maker should feel like an upgrade, not a compromise.
Frigidaire EFIC189 Countertop Compact Ice Maker
the do-it-all default
4.6out of 5The Frigidaire EFIC189 nails the balance of speed, capacity, and price that most people need. It pumps out bullet-shaped ice reliably and its self-cleaning function keeps maintenance low. Owner reviews consistently praise its consistent performance over months of daily use.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker
the nugget ice king
4.8out of 5The GE Profile Opal is the gold standard for nugget ice at home. It delivers that crunchy, soft Sonic-style ice that so many people crave, and its Side Tank accessory keeps it running without refills. Yes, it costs more and demands counter space, but for nugget lovers it’s worth every penny.
Price range: $$$$
Check price on Amazon →Igloo ICEB26HNSS 26 lb. Countertop Ice Maker
budget-friendly workhorse
4.3out of 5The Igloo ICEB26HNSS proves you don’t need to spend much to get a reliable ice maker. It makes bullet ice quickly and has a compact design that fits almost anywhere. Many owners report years of trouble-free use, making it the best value pick for occasional ice needs.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Frigidaire EFIC189 Countertop Compact Ice Maker | 4.6 / 5 | $$ | Anyone who wants a dependable, mid-priced ice maker that blends into the counter and produ | Check price → |
| Runner-up | GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker | 4.8 / 5 | $$$$ | Nugget ice enthusiasts who entertain often and want the best-tasting, most satisfying ice | Check price → |
| Best value | Igloo ICEB26HNSS 26 lb. Countertop Ice Maker | 4.3 / 5 | $ | Budget‑conscious shoppers or occasional users who want a no‑frills machine that makes ice | Check price → |
| Runner-up | NewAir AI-100SS 28 lb. Portable Ice Maker | 4.4 / 5 | $$ | People who want a quiet, attractive machine that blends into a modern kitchen and delivers | Check price → |
| Editor's pick | Euhomy Countertop Ice Maker Machine | 4.2 / 5 | $ | Individuals or couples with limited counter space who want a low‑cost, low‑commitment way | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. Frigidaire EFIC189 Countertop Compact Ice Maker: the do-it-all default
Best overallThe Frigidaire EFIC189 nails the balance of speed, capacity, and price that most people need. It pumps out bullet-shaped ice reliably and its self-cleaning function keeps maintenance low. Owner reviews consistently praise its consistent performance over months of daily use.
Pros
- Self-cleaning cycle reduces mineral buildup and effort
- Produces ice in under ten minutes from start-up
- Large viewing window lets you check ice level without opening
- Compact footprint fits on most kitchen counters
Cons
- Bullet ice is not as soft as nugget options
- Water reservoir could be larger for heavy use
- Basket holds only a modest amount before it starts recycling
Who it’s for
Anyone who wants a dependable, mid-priced ice maker that blends into the counter and produces ice fast.Who should skip it
You are set on nugget ice, the Frigidaire makes bullets only, and the GE Opal is a better fit for chewable ice.2. GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker: the nugget ice king
Runner-upThe GE Profile Opal is the gold standard for nugget ice at home. It delivers that crunchy, soft Sonic-style ice that so many people crave, and its Side Tank accessory keeps it running without refills. Yes, it costs more and demands counter space, but for nugget lovers it’s worth every penny.
Pros
- Produces true chewable nugget ice, not hollow bullets
- Optional side tank attachment doubles water capacity
- Quiet operation compared to many nugget machines
- Connects to the GE Appliances app for scheduling and alerts
Cons
- Premium price, often a few hundred dollars more than basic makers
- Large footprint can dominate a small counter
- Requires regular descaling to maintain performance
Who it’s for
Nugget ice enthusiasts who entertain often and want the best-tasting, most satisfying ice from a countertop machine.Who should skip it
Your budget is tight or you don’t care about ice shape, the Frigidaire makes ice faster for half the money.3. Igloo ICEB26HNSS 26 lb. Countertop Ice Maker: budget-friendly workhorse
Best valueThe Igloo ICEB26HNSS proves you don’t need to spend much to get a reliable ice maker. It makes bullet ice quickly and has a compact design that fits almost anywhere. Many owners report years of trouble-free use, making it the best value pick for occasional ice needs.
Pros
- Very affordable entry point for the category
- Lightweight and easy to move or store when not in use
- Simple one-button operation with status indicators
- Decent daily output for its size
Cons
- No self-cleaning cycle, manual descaling required
- Ice tends to be small and sometimes melts quickly in drinks
- Noise level is noticeable on a quiet countertop
Who it’s for
Budget‑conscious shoppers or occasional users who want a no‑frills machine that makes ice when needed without a big investment.Who should skip it
You plan to host large parties regularly, its basket fills up fast and the batch speed slows down after the first cycle.4. NewAir AI-100SS 28 lb. Portable Ice Maker: quiet and capable runner-up
Runner-upThe NewAir AI-100SS is a well-rounded alternative to the Frigidaire, especially if you prioritize quiet operation and a stainless steel look. It makes clean bullet ice and handles daily use without fuss. Owners consistently mention how unobtrusive it is on the counter.
Pros
- Runs noticeably quieter than many competitors in this price range
- Stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and looks sleek
- Ice basket is easy to remove and clean
- Consistent ice shape and size cycle after cycle
Cons
- Slightly slower first batch than the Frigidaire model
- Small water tank means more frequent refills during heavy use
- No onboard scoop storage
Who it’s for
People who want a quiet, attractive machine that blends into a modern kitchen and delivers steady performance without surprises.Who should skip it
You need the absolute fastest ice production, the Frigidaire edges it out by a minute or two on the first batch.5. Euhomy Countertop Ice Maker Machine: compact editor’s pick
Editor's pickThe Euhomy countertop ice maker is a space‑saving marvel that still manages to churn out bullet ice quickly. It’s especially popular in RVs, dorms, and tiny apartments where every inch counts. While the build feels a bit lighter than pricier rivals, it consistently delivers for its size.
Pros
- Ultra‑compact design fits in tight spots or under cabinets
- Budget‑friendly price makes it accessible for almost any kitchen
- Fast first batch, often ready in under eight minutes
- Comes in several colors to match different decors
Cons
- Small basket capacity requires frequent emptying
- Plastic components feel less durable over time
- No self‑cleaning function and the interior can be tricky to wipe out
Who it’s for
Individuals or couples with limited counter space who want a low‑cost, low‑commitment way to have fresh ice without a freezer’s hassle.Who should skip it
You host gatherings often, the small basket and slower recovery mean you’ll be scooping and waiting between rounds.Best for specific needs
Best for nugget ice addicts
If the only ice you want is the soft, chewable kind that soaks up syrup and soda flavors, there’s really only one choice: the GE Profile Opal. It’s the only machine on this list that makes true nugget ice, and the optional side tank means you can run it all day during parties. Owners who switch from bullet‑ice makers report it’s a game‑changer for iced coffee and cocktails. Our pick: GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker.
Best for small kitchens and tight budgets
When counter space is at a premium and you don’t want to spend a lot, the Euhomy Countertop Ice Maker is your best bet. It shrinks the footprint without shrinking performance dramatically, and its fast first batch means you never wait long. It’s also a favorite among RV owners and college students who need a portable, affordable ice solution. Our pick: Euhomy Countertop Ice Maker Machine.
Best for daily use in a family kitchen
For a kitchen that sees breakfast, lunch, and dinner traffic, the Frigidaire EFIC189 offers the ideal mix of speed, capacity, and ease of cleaning. Its self‑cleaning cycle saves you manual descaling, and the large window means no guessing. It’s the model we’d recommend to anyone who wants a single do‑it‑all ice maker without paying luxury prices. Our pick: Frigidaire EFIC189 Countertop Compact Ice Maker.
Our verdict
No countertop ice maker fits every lifestyle, but if we had to pick one for the broadest audience, it’s the Frigidaire EFIC189. It checks all the everyday boxes, fast ice, easy cleaning, reasonable size, without the sticker shock of the premium nugget machine. That said, if you have the budget and crave nugget ice, the GE Profile Opal is undeniably superb. For everyone else, the Igloo, NewAir, and Euhomy each carve out specific niches that make them worthwhile alternatives. Think about how much ice you actually go through and where the machine will sit, then choose the model that feels like it was built for your kitchen.