Ever find yourself hosting a small gathering and running out of ice halfway through? It’s a common headache, but a compact solution is changing the game. A small countertop ice maker can be a total lifesaver, quietly producing a fresh batch of cubes in minutes without hogging all your precious kitchen space. No more frantic store runs or dealing with messy, overflowing trays.
These little machines are perfect for apartments, home offices, or even RVs. In this review, we’ll break down the top models to help you find one that fits your lifestyle and actually delivers on its promises. Let’s see which one can keep your drinks perfectly chilled without any fuss.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Small Countertop Ice Maker
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ICEMAN Dual-Size Ice Maker Countertop – Portable Ice Machine,…
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9.6 |
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Iceman Pebble Ice Machine, Countertop Nugget Ice Maker Produces…
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9.5 |
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GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL with 1 Gallon Tank,…
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9.3 |
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Silonn Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Pebble Ice Maker with…
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9.2 |
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Typhur Fast Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Self-Cleaning Pump,…
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9.0 |
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ecozy Ice Makers Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Carry…
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8.9 |
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WETIE Ice Maker Countertop, 9 Bullet Ice Cubes in…
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8.7 |
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Countertop Ice Maker with Handle, 26.5lbs in 24Hrs with…
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8.6 |
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Hamilton Beach Portable Bullet Countertop Ice Maker Machine, Makes…
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8.4 |
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Midea MERI26B1AGN Countertop Bullet-Ice Maker, 8 Ice Bullets Ready…
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8.3 |
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Quick Review For Top 10 Small Countertop Ice Maker
ICEMAN Dual-Size Ice Maker Countertop – Portable Ice Machine, Large and Small Ice Machine Maker with Self Cleaning, 9 Cubes in 7 Mins, 22lbs/24hrs, for Home, Kitchen, Office, Party, Ice Scoop Included
The ICEMAN Dual-Size Ice Maker Countertop is designed to solve a simple but common problem: running out of ice. It’s a portable machine that sits right on your counter, making ice on demand so you don’t have to rely on your freezer.
Its main advantage is speed. You can have 9 pieces of round, bullet-style ice ready in just 7 minutes. That’s significantly faster than waiting for a freezer tray to freeze.
Whether you’re preparing for guests or just want a cold drink after work, it eliminates the wait. You’ll have a steady supply without the planning ahead.
This model gives you flexibility with two ice sizes. You can choose between large or small cubes. The small ones are great for not watering down a soda or whiskey quickly, while the larger ones melt slower and are perfect for water bottles or big tumblers.
You get to match the ice to your drink, which is a nice touch you don’t get with a standard fridge.
Operation is straightforward. An intuitive LED display panel keeps you informed. It shows which ice size you’ve selected, lets you know when the ice basket is full, and warns you if the water reservoir is getting low. It also clearly indicates when it’s time for a cleaning cycle. Speaking of wich, the self-cleaning function makes maintenance simple.
Iceman Pebble Ice Machine, Countertop Nugget Ice Maker Produces Chewable Pellet Ice in 20 Minutes, Makes 33lbs/Day, with One-Touch Cleaning Function and Ice Scoop/Basket Included – Stainless Steel
The Iceman Pebble Ice Machine (RJ56-PB18-SS) is a countertop appliance designed for anyone who loves that specific, chewable nugget ice. If you’ve ever enjoyed the soft, crunchy ice from a favorite restaurant or hospital, this machine brings that experience directly into your home, office, or bar area. It’s built to be straightforward and convenient, focusing on producing ice quickly and with minimal fuss. One of the key benefits is speed.
You can have your first batch of pebble ice ready in about 20 minutes. That means no more waiting hours for a tray to freeze or running to the store last minute. The small, pellet-shaped ice it produces is excellent for cooling drinks rapidly because of its greater surface area. And yes, it’s famously fun to chew, which is a big part of the appeal for many people. It’s a different texture entirely from traditional hard cubes. Space and convenience are major considerations here.
This unit frees up valuable real estate in your freezer by eliminating the need for ice trays or bulky bags. The machine itself has a compact footprint designed to fit on a countertop without dominating it. It can hold up to 2.4 pounds of ice in its included basket at one time and can produce about 33 pounds over a 24-hour period. The included scoop makes serving easy.
GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL with 1 Gallon Tank, Chewable Crunchable Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, Scoop included, 38 lbs in 24 hours, Pellet Ice Machine with WiFi & Smart Connected, Stainless Steel
The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL with 1 Gallon Tank is a countertop ice maker designed for those who prefer a specific, popular type of ice. It produces what is often called nugget or pellet ice—that soft, chewable ice found in some restaurants and hospitals.
If you find yourself always wishing for that kind of ice at home, this appliance is built to deliver it on demand, without needing a permanent water line hookup.
Its core feature is producing what the brand calls “The Good Ice.” This is Opal nugget ice, made from compacted ice flakes. It’s known for being soft and chewable, and it tends to absorb beverage flavors better than a solid, hard cube might. The machine starts making its first batch in about 10 minutes.
Over a full day, it can produce up to 38 pounds of this nugget ice. It has a removable storage drawer that holds about 3 pounds at a time, so you can have a steady supply ready to go. The attached 1-gallon water tank is key for its placement flexibility. You don’t need to connect it to your plumbing; you just fill the tank. This tank is also detachable, which makes filling it at the sink and cleaning it much more simpler.
This model includes smart connectivity features.
Silonn Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Pebble Ice Maker with Soft Chewable Ice, One-Click Operation Ice Machine with Self-Cleaning, 33lbs/24H, Stainless Steel
The Silonn Nugget Ice Maker Countertop is designed for anyone who loves that specific, soft chewable ice. You know the kind. It’s perfect for iced coffee, sodas, or a cold glass of water at home. This machine focuses on making that pebble ice quickly and conveniently, without taking up much space on your counter.
Its main job is to make a lot of ice fast. It can produce up to 33 pounds of nugget ice in a day, which is roughly 48 standard cups.
That means it can easily keep up with a busy family or a group of friends during a get-together. You won’t be running out when you need it most. The ice itself is the star here. It’s that soft, chewable nugget ice with a great texture. Because the pieces are small and have more surface area, they chill your drink very quickly without watering it down to fast. It’s a different experience compared to traditional hard cubes.
Operation is straightforward.
With one-click, you start the ice-making cycle. You can see the machine’s status clearly from across the room thanks to the front-facing display and indicators, so you always know if it’s making ice or if the basket is full. One of the best features is the speed. You get your first batch of fresh pebble ice in about six minutes after you turn it on. That’s fast enough to decide you want a cold drink and have it ready almost immediately.
Maintenance is also simplified.
Typhur Fast Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Self-Cleaning Pump, 35lbs/24H Crushed Pebble Ice Machine with Pellet Ice, 8 Packs Cleaner, Dual Ice Scoops for Home, Kitchen, Party, RV, Stainless Steel
The Typhur Fast Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Self-Cleaning Pump is designed for anyone who loves that specific soft, chewable ice. If you find yourself wishing for that restaurant-style pebble ice at home, this compact machine is built to deliver it reliably.
Its core feature is fast ice production. It can make up to 35 pounds of ice in a 24-hour period, which is a substantial amount for daily use or entertaining.
The 1.5-liter water tank and a removable ice basket that holds 2.6 pounds of ice means you don’t have to refill it constantly. You can have a steady supply of fresh ice ready for your kitchen, a party, or even in your RV.
The type of ice it creates is what sets it apart. This machine produces next-level chewable nugget ice. It’s that soft, crunchy pellet ice that’s easy to chew and cools drinks quickly without watering them down to fast.
Its airy texture is known for enhancing the flavor of beverages, making it perfect for everything from sodas and iced coffee to cocktails.
Maintenance is simplified with the one-touch deep cleaning system. By pressing the “Clean” button, the machine initiates a 7-minute automatic cycle. A high-pressure pump flushes through the ice path to help keep it clean and ensure your ice tastes fresh.
ecozy Ice Makers Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Carry Handle, 26lbs in 24Hrs, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Auto-Cleaning Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Kitchen/Camping/RV
The ecosy Ice Makers Countertop is a portable ice machine designed to put fresh ice on demand right at your fingertips. It’s built for situations where you need ice fast and reliably, without the hassle of traditional trays or a bulky appliance. Whether you’re filling a cooler for a camping trip, hosting friends in your kitchen, or stocking the mini-fridge in your RV, this unit aims to be a simple solution.
One of it’s core strengths is speed and capacity.
You can have a batch of nine bullet-shaped ice cubes ready in about six minutes. Over a full day, it can produce up to 26 pounds of ice. That means you’re unlikely to run out during a gathering, and you can quickly replenish your supply. The machine offers a choice between two ice cube sizes.
This lets you select smaller cubes that chill a drink rapidly or larger ones that melt more slowly, which is handy for different beverages from iced coffee to a spirit you want to enjoy neat.
Maintenance is streamlined with an auto-cleaning function. A one-touch cycle helps manage mineral buildup and keeps the interior fresh, which is important for taste and appliance longevity.
WETIE Ice Maker Countertop, 9 Bullet Ice Cubes in 6 Minutes, 26lbs/24Hrs with 2 Sizes, Portable Ice Machine with Basket, Scoop and Ice Pack, Compact ice Maker for Home, Kitchen, Camping, Party
The WETIE Ice Maker Countertop is designed to be a reliable source of ice whenever you need it. With the ability to produce your first nine bullet-shaped ice cubes in just six minutes, it eliminates the long wait for ice trays. Its powerful compressor can make up to 26 pounds of ice every 24 hours, which means it can keep up with your daily needs, whether that’s for a few glasses of water or a gathering with friends. You have flexibility with the ice size.
You can choose between two different cube sizes. The smaller cubes are perfect for quickly chilling a drink like soda or juice. The larger cubes are ideal for situations where you need ice to last longer, like in a cooler for camping or keeping a platter of seafood fresh. This machine is built for various settings, from your kitchen countertop to a party setup or an RV trip. Maintenance is straightforward.
By holding the power button for five seconds after adding water, you can activate a self-cleaning cycle. This helps keep the internals fresh and can extend the life of your appliance. The flip-lid opens fully, making it easy to access and wipe down the evaporator if you need to. It’s a feature that makes regular upkeep less of a chore. Portability and ease of use are key here. The machine operates with a simple one-touch button.
Countertop Ice Maker with Handle, 26.5lbs in 24Hrs with 2 Sizes, 8 Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Auto-Cleaning Small Portable Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop for Home/Office/Kitchen/Camping/RV, Black
The Countertop Ice Maker with Handle is designed for anyone who needs a steady, convenient supply of ice without the hassle of a traditional freezer tray. This compact unit prioritizes speed and simplicity, producing up to 26.5 pounds of ice every 24 hours to keep up with your demands.
Its standout feature is how quickly it gets started. You can have your first batch of 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes ready in about 6 minutes.
This is incredibly useful when you have guests over unexpectedly or simply want a cold drink without the wait. The machine offers two cube sizes, letting you choose between slower-melting larger cubes or quicker-chilling smaller ones for different beverages.
We appreciate that it’s built to be efficient in more ways than one. The upgraded motor uses about 30% less power than previous models, which helps manage energy consumption.
Over time, this can lead to noticeable savings on your electricity bill, making it a practical choice for regular use. It also operates very quietly, at under 40 decibels. This means it won’t disrupt conversations, work, or sleep, making it suitable for an office, a bedroom corner, or a quiet kitchen.
Maintenance is straightforward thanks to the one-touch self-cleaning function.
Hamilton Beach Portable Bullet Countertop Ice Maker Machine, Makes 26 Lbs/Day, 9 Cubes Every 6 Minutes, Self-Clean Function, for RV, Office, Kitchen, Dorm, Makes 2 Sizes, Black (86151)
The Hamilton Beach Portable Bullet Countertop Ice Maker Machine (86151) is designed to put an end to ice shortages and long waits. Its core promise is simple: reliable, fast ice production wherever you need it most. Whether your setting is a busy kitchen, a compact dorm room, a home office, or an RV, this unit delivers fresh ice on demand without requiring a permanent, built-in installation. You won’t be waiting long for that first batch.
This machine can produce up to nine bullet-shaped ice cubes in as little as six minutes. From a power-on start, you’ll have ice ready for your drink in the time it takes to gather your ingredients. It keeps producing, too, capable of making up to 26 pounds of ice in a single day. That means it can support a small gathering or simply ensure you never run out on a hot afternoon, filling the equivalent of many glasses daily. A key feature is the choice it offers.
You can select between two cube sizes. The larger size is ideal for drinks where slower melting is prefered, like in a glass of iced tea or a cooler. The smaller cubes are great for quickly chilling a drink or for use in a blender. This flexibility lets you match the ice to your specific need, which is a nice touch for such a compact appliance. Operation is straightforward. After filling the reservoir with water, you simply press the power button and choose your size.
Midea MERI26B1AGN Countertop Bullet-Ice Maker, 8 Ice Bullets Ready in 6 Minutes, 26lbs/24H, Self-Cleaning Function with Ice Scoop and Basket for Home/Office/RV
The Midea MERI26B1AGN Countertop Bullet-Ice Maker is a specialized appliance designed for one clear purpose: producing a steady, rapid supply of unique ice. If you’ve ever wanted a dedicated ice maker that doesn’t take up a huge amount of space, this model offers a compelling set of features for homes, offices, or even RVs.
Its standout feature is the bullet-shaped ice it produces. This isn’t your standard cube.
The shape offers less surface area than crushed ice, which means it melts slower. This is ideal for keeping drinks cold without quickly diluting them. You have a choice in size, too. Select the small bullets for rapidly cooling a can of soda or a glass of iced tea. Opt for the large bullets when you want ice that lasts, perfect for slow-sipping spirits or a large water bottle. Having this choice adds a nice bit of versatility to your drink preparation.
Speed is a major advantage here.
The unit can produce its first batch of 8 ice bullets in just about 6 minutes. Over a full day, it can generate up to 26 pounds of ice. This capacity means you’re unlikely to run out, even during a gathering or on a hot day. The machine’s compact size is another key benefit. It has a small footprint that fits easily on a kitchen counter, a bar cart, or in an RV galley.
Small Countertop Ice Maker Buying Guide
Ever need ice fast but your freezer’s tray is empty? A small countertop ice maker is a handy appliance that produces its own batch of ice in minutes, no plumbing required. It’s perfect for home offices, small kitchens, or entertaining. Here’s what to look for when picking one.
Ice Production Speed & Capacity
How quickly do you need ice? Most machines can make their first batch in under 10 minutes. Check the daily production total—it’s often between 20-30 pounds. The storage bin capacity is separate; it holds the ready ice. A larger bin is great if you host gatherings, but remember, the ice will eventually melt if not used.
Ice Cube Size & Shape
Not all cubes are created equal. Some makers offer a choice between small and large cubes, which is a nice bit of flexibility. Small cubes cool drinks faster, while larger ones melt slower. Consider what you drink most. A few models even make bullet-shaped or crescent cubes, which are fun for cocktails.
Noise Level During Operation
These machines aren’t silent. They hum and gurgle while working. If you plan to use it in a home office or living area, check reviews for comments on noise. Quieter models are out there, but they might take a bit longer to make ice. It’s a trade-off worth thinking about.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Mineral buildup from water can affect performance. Look for a model with a simple, accessible design. A removable water reservoir and ice basket makes cleaning much easier. Some have a self-cleaning function, which is a huge help for regular maintenance and keeping your ice tasting fresh.
Footprint and Portability
Measure your counter space! These units vary in size. A compact one saves space but might have a smaller ice bin. Also, check its weight. If you want to move it from the kitchen to the patio easily, a lighter model with a comfortable handle is a major plus. You’ll appreciate that flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Countertop Ice Maker
How much counter space do these ice makers need?
They are pretty compact. Most need about the same space as a small kitchen appliance, like a coffee maker. It’s good to leave a few inches on the sides and back for air flow. Always check the product dimensions before you buy.
How long does it take to make ice?
It’s faster than your freezer. Many models can produce their first batch of ice in as little as 6 to 15 minutes. A full bin of ice usually takes under an hour, depending on the machine’s size.
What kind of ice do they make?
Most make bullet-shaped or cylindrical ice nuggets. This shape is common because it’s quick to freeze. Some models offer different ice size settings, but you typically won’t get large cubes like in a traditional tray.
Do I need to hook it up to a water line?
Nope, that’s the big convenience! You just pour water into a built-in reservoir. The size of the reservoir determines how much ice you can make before needing a refill. No plumbing is required.
Is the ice it makes really cold?
The ice itself is cold, but it’s stored in a bin at room temperature inside the machine. So it will chill your drink, but it may melt a bit faster than ice from your freezer. For the coldest ice, you can transfer it to your freezer after it’s made.
How do I clean it?
Cleaning is simple. You’ll usually just run a cleaning cycle with a bit of vinegar or a cleaner the manual recommends. Wiping down the exterior and the ice bin with a damp cloth is also a good idea. You should do this every couple weeks.
Can I use it outdoors?
It’s best to use them indoors. They are designed for room temperature. Using one in very hot or cold conditions can effect the machine’s performance and might even damage it.
Are they noisy when running?
They do make some sound, like a low hum or a trickling water noise. It’s not usually very loud—comparable to a small fan. But it’s something to be aware of if you plan to have it in a quiet room.
Our Final Recommendation
So, what’s the bottom line? A small ice maker is a fantastic helper for your kitchen. It’s perfect for daily drinks, small parties, or when you just need ice fast. You don’t have to wait for a whole freezer tray to freeze. You get fresh ice in minutes instead of hours. It really does make things more convenient.
Think about how you use ice at home. If you often find yourself running out, this appliance is a great solution. A reliable small countertop ice maker can save you a lot of hassle. Just keep its size and output in mind for your needs. Overall, it’s a simple way to add a bit of everyday ease. We think you’ll enjoy having one around.