3 Best Counter Ice Makers for Summer Entertaining You’ll Love This Year
When it comes to summer entertaining, having a reliable counter ice maker isn’t just a nice touch—it’s essential. These devices can produce up to 33 pounds of ice daily, perfect for keeping drinks icy without constant refills. From compact models with large water tanks and quick cycles to quiet, energy-efficient options, the right choice depends on your needs. Curious about which model best fits your setup? Stay with me, because selecting the perfect ice maker can make your summer gatherings effortless—and a lot cooler.
ecozy Portable Ice Maker Machine with External Water Tank
- Speedy Ice, Ample Supply: Get your ice ready in just 13 minutes! With a daily production of 33 lbs, this ice maker...
- Perfect Ice for Every Sip: Say goodbye to quick-melting bullet ice, keeping your drink fresh. Customize the thickness to...
If you want a portable ice maker that’s easy to carry and perfect for parties, try the ecozy Portable Ice Maker Machine with External Water Tank. It weighs only 33 pounds, so it’s light enough to move around easily. It can make up to 33 pounds of ice each day, and it works quickly. In just 13 minutes, you get fresh ice ready to use. The ice type is small, chewable, and great for drinks, smoothies, or iced coffee. You can also adjust how thick the ice is.
The external water tank holds 1.5 liters of water, so you don’t need to fill it up often. This is handy for parties or outdoor events. The machine runs quietly and uses energy efficiently. It also has a handle, so it’s simple to take with you anywhere—even if you’re not a big ice expert.
Best For: people who want a portable ice maker that is big enough to keep up with parties or daily drinks, and easy to use.
Pros:
- Produces up to 33 pounds of ice each day. It only takes 13 minutes to make each batch.
- The water tank is outside, holding 1.5 liters, so you don’t need to refill it often.
- Light and portable at 33 pounds, with a handle for easy carrying. Perfect for outdoor events, camping, or moving it in the kitchen.
Cons:
- Sometimes the ice can be watery, or the machine may need cleaning or fixing.
- It gets hot while working, so make sure to keep it in a spot with good air flow.
- Some users find they need to do regular cleaning to keep it working well for a long time.
This ice maker is a great choice if you want something portable, with high capacity, and easy to use. It makes enough ice fast, and the external water tank saves time. Just remember to keep it clean and give it good space to air out, so it works perfectly for years to come.
Antarctic Star Countertop Ice Maker with Carry Handle
- FAST MAKER- Antarctic Star countertop ice maker has a powerful and fast ice making capacity. Makes batches of ice cubes...
- QUIET & ENERGY- This portable countertop ice maker machine achieves low noise level, fast cooling effect and low...
The Antarctic Star Countertop Ice Maker with Carry Handle is a great choice if you want a lightweight and portable way to make ice. It can produce about 26 pounds of ice every day. Each batch takes only 6 to 13 minutes to freeze, thanks to its strong compressor. Its small size (11.73L×8.66W×11.22H inches) means it fits on most counters or in small spaces. The carry handle makes it easy to move around. The shell is made of food-grade, odorless plastic, which is easy to clean. It has LED lights to show when it’s working, and it turns off automatically when full. The removable basket makes it simple to get your ice.
This ice maker is perfect for outdoor parties, RV trips, or busy offices. It is quiet, making less than 35 decibels of noise. Cleaning is simple with its durable material. Keep in mind, you should stand it upright for 4 hours before using it for the first time. It makes ice in batches, not continuously, so you may need to refill water often depending on how much ice you need.
EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker, 9 Cubes in 6 Minutes, 26lbs/24H, Self-Cleaning Portable Ice Maker
- Efficient Ice-Making in 6 Minutes: Powered by a high-quality compressor, this countertop ice maker produces up to 9 ice...
- TWO SIZES OF Bullet-Shaped ICE CUBES: Create two different sizes of bullet-shaped ice cubes. Small ice cubes are perfect...
Meet the EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker. It’s small, but it makes ice fast. In just 6 minutes, it can make up to 9 ice cubes. If you need a lot of ice, it can produce up to 26 pounds in one day. That’s good for parties or just having ice ready at home.
This ice maker is quiet. The compressor runs below 45 decibels, so it won’t disturb your conversations or sleep. It makes two types of ice cubes—small or large, depending on what you like. It also cleans itself, so you don’t have to do much work to keep it clean. It’s lightweight, weighing just 13.9 pounds, so you can move it easily inside or outside.
This ice maker is perfect for people who host get-togethers, need ice fast, or want a portable machine. It is simple to use and easy to take anywhere.
Here are some good things about it:
- It makes up to 9 cubes in 6 minutes, so you get ice quickly.
- It’s small and light, so you can move it easily.
- It cleans itself, saving you time and effort.
Some things to keep in mind:
- Sometimes, the water level indicator can be tricky to read.
- If you don’t use the ice soon, it may melt.
- Customer support can vary. Some buyers had to use the warranty or contact support.
If you want a fast, portable, quiet ice maker for your home, camping, or parties, the EUHOMY Ice Maker is a good choice.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Counter Ice Makers for Summer Entertaining
When choosing a counter ice maker, you’ll want to consider how much ice it can produce—whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a backyard bash—and if you prefer nugget, cube, or crushed ice; each type serves different needs. Size and portability matter, especially if you plan to move it around or have limited counter space, so don’t forget to measure beforehand. Finally, pay attention to noise levels and cleaning ease, because an overly loud machine or one that’s a nightmare to tidy up could put a damper on your summer fun.
Production Capacity Needs
Choosing the right counter ice maker depends on how much ice you need. If you have big parties or entertain often, get a model that makes at least 30 pounds of ice each day. Less than that might leave you waiting for enough ice. For smaller gatherings or daily use, 26 to 33 pounds per day works well. Check how fast the machine makes ice; a cycle under 10 minutes means you get ice quicker. Some models have water tanks or can fill continuously. These are good if you have long parties because they keep the ice coming without needing frequent refills. Also, choose a machine that doesn’t break down often. A reliable model helps you enjoy your gatherings without worries about running out of ice or having to fix the machine.
Ice Type Preferences
The kind of ice your countertop ice maker makes can change how your drinks look and taste, especially during summer parties. If you want your drinks to look neat, cubed ice is a good choice. It looks classic and keeps drinks cold without watering them down. For cocktails or smoothies, pellet or chewable ice feels soft and slushy, which makes drinking them fun. Nugget ice is a mix of both types—it’s small, chewy, and melts slowly. Some ice machines let you change the shape or size of the ice using settings or molds, so you can make your drinks stand out. Keep in mind, some types of ice form faster and in bigger amounts. Think about how many people you will serve and the texture you like best when choosing your ice maker.
Portability and Size
When choosing a portable ice maker, size and weight are important. Most models weigh between 13 and 33 pounds. This makes them easy to carry without much effort. Smaller units, around 9 to 12 inches high and wide, fit nicely on kitchen counters or small shelves. Many have handles that make moving them simple. You can take your ice maker from the patio to indoors easily. Some have external water tanks, so you don’t need to refill them often. This means you get more ice without interruptions. Before taking it to a picnic or party, check if it fits in your car’s trunk. A compact size helps you transport it quickly and store it easily.
Noise Level Comfort
When you pick a counter ice maker for summer parties, think about how loud it is. A quiet machine makes the party more fun because everyone can talk easily. Look for models that make less than 35 decibels of noise. That’s about as loud as a whisper. Some quiet ice makers have special parts that help keep noise down. These parts make the machine run almost silently, so it doesn’t interrupt your conversation. You can also choose models with sound-reducing features like insulation or sound-dampening panels. They might cost a little more, but they help keep your space peaceful. Keep in mind that the noise level can change during the ice-making cycle. Check reviews to see what people say about how loud the machine really is. For a quiet and relaxing party, pick a portable ice maker designed for indoor or outdoor use that doesn’t make much noise. This way, your guests stay comfortable and your party stays lively.
Ease of Cleaning
Ease of cleaning is an important part of choosing a good counter ice maker. When cleaning is easy, you spend less time on maintenance and more time enjoying your ice. Look for models that have self-cleaning options or parts that come out easily. This makes cleaning faster and better. Components like the ice basket and drainage system should be removable. This helps prevent ice buildup and keeps the ice fresh.
Choose machines with smooth, flat surfaces that wipe clean easily. Non-porous surfaces don’t trap dirt or bacteria, making them more hygienic. Also, look for clear instructions and alerts that tell you when it’s time to clean. Machines that need little disassembly are easier to maintain.
Water Source Flexibility
Having a flexible water source is very helpful when you pick a counter ice maker for summer get-togethers. Some ice makers have water tanks outside. These tanks can fill themselves automatically, so you don’t have to keep adding water. This is great if you plan to use the ice maker for a long time or at a big party. Other models have built-in water reservoirs. These are easy to move around and work well outside or in places without a water line. Some ice makers let you choose. You can fill the tank by hand or connect them to a water source outside. This way, you can use the ice maker in different places easily. Ice makers with external water tanks mean you won’t need to stop your party to refill. They can keep making ice nonstop during barbecues or pool parties. Making sure your ice maker can connect to a water source or has a big water tank helps you avoid interruptions. This makes it easier to keep ice coming and keeps your guests happy.
Energy Efficiency Ratings
Have you ever noticed that some ice makers just keep running and never seem to use too much energy? It is because of their energy efficiency ratings. These ratings, often shown in watts, tell you how much power the machine uses when it’s working. Look for ice makers that have special labels, like ENERGY STAR. These labels mean the machine follows strict rules to save electricity. Many good ice makers also turn off automatically when they have enough ice or when you are not using them. This saves power automatically. Taking care of your ice maker helps too. Cleaning it regularly and making sure air can flow easily prevents the machine from working too hard and wasting energy. Picking an energy-efficient ice maker helps you save money on your bills and is better for the environment. It also keeps your ice-making smooth and easy.
Budget Considerations
Choosing the right counter ice maker for summer fun means checking how much it costs, what features it has, and how well it works. Prices can be as low as $100 for simple models. More advanced models usually cost over $300. These better models have bigger ice bins, faster ice making, and handy extra features like self-cleaning or digital controls.
If you go for a cheaper braind, you might get a small water tank and slow ice production. This means you will need to refill it often, which can be a hassle during parties. Spending a bit more money can be a good idea. It can give you a more reliable ice maker that makes ice fast and lasts longer. This is helpful if you throw parties often.
When choosing, think about how long the ice maker will last. Check if it uses less energy and if customer support is easy to reach. This way, your ice maker will fit your budget and keep your drinks cold during the heat.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take for These Ice Makers to Produce a Full Batch?
You might wonder how long it takes for these ice makers to produce a full batch. Typically, you’ll see results in about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the model and water temperature, so you’re ready for your gathering quickly.
Can These Ice Makers Operate Adequately in Outdoor Environments?
You can operate most of these ice makers outdoors, but they perform best in sheltered areas protected from direct sunlight and weather. Guarantee proper ventilation and avoid exposure to extreme temperatures for ideal performance and longevity.
Are Replacement Parts and Filters Easily Available for Maintenance?
You can typically find replacement parts and filters for these ice makers easily online or at local appliance stores. Regular maintenance becomes simple, helping your machine run smoothly and ensuring you always have fresh ice for your gatherings.
How Energy-Efficient Are These Countertop Ice Makers?
You’ll find that most countertop ice makers are quite energy-efficient, using minimal power to produce ice quickly. They’re designed to help you save energy without sacrificing performance, making them ideal for frequent use during summer gatherings.
Is There Any Warranty Coverage Included With These Models?
Most models include a warranty, so you’re protected against defects and malfunctions. Check each product’s details for coverage duration and specific terms, ensuring you get the support you need during your summer entertaining.
Hi, I’m Liza Jensen, your culinary companion here at Recipe by Liza. 🍳🥗Cooking has always been my passion—I find joy in every whisk, every sizzle, and every aromatic spice. As a home cook and recipe developer, I’ve explored flavors from around the world, creating dishes that warm hearts and tantalize taste buds.Join me on this flavorful journey! Let’s swap kitchen stories, share tips, and celebrate the magic of food together.
