Ever find yourself craving that perfect, pebble-like ice for your summer lemonade or evening cocktail, only to be stuck with clunky cubes? That’s where a dedicated crushed ice maker countertop can be a total game-changer for your kitchen. It’s not just another appliance; it’s your personal ticket to bar-quality refreshment without the fuss of noisy blenders or those tedious manual crushers that seem to dissapear when you need them most.
We’ve been testing a popular model to see if it lives up to the hype. In this review, we’ll walk you through everything from setup and noise level to how fast it actually produces that glorious, fluffy ice. You’ll get the real scoop on whether it’s worth the precious space on your counter.
Product Comparison Table: 9 Best Crushed Ice Maker Countertop
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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ICEMAN Dual-Size Ice Maker Countertop – Portable Ice Machine,…
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9.7 |
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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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9.1 |
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Typhur Fast Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Self-Cleaning Pump,…
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8.8 |
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WETIE Ice Maker Countertop, 9 Bullet Ice Cubes in…
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8.6 |
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Totnz Boost Ice Maker with 2.5L Expanding Ice Basket…
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8.4 |
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Avanti Nugget Ice Maker with Electronic Controls and Dispenser…
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8.2 |
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Nugget Ice Maker Countertop – Silonn Pebble Ice Maker…
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8.0 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 9 Crushed Ice Maker Countertop
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 Chefman ICEMAN Dual-Size Ice Maker Countertop is designed to solve a simple, common problem: running out of ice. Whether your fridge’s ice production is too slow or you’re tired of refilling bulky trays, this portable machine offers a dedicated, efficient solution right on your kitchen counter.
Its primary advantage is speed. The unit can produce up to 9 pieces of round, bullet-style ice in just 7 minutes, with a full daily output of 22 pounds.
This means you can have a steady supply ready for a sudden gathering or simply for daily use without any advance planning. You’ll appriciate the flexibility of choosing between two ice sizes—large for drinks that need slower melting, like whiskey, or small for quickly chilling a glass of water or soda.
The intuitive LED display keeps you informed every step of the way, clearly showing your selected ice size, when the basket is full, and if the water level is getting low.
Maintenance is straightforward thanks to the built-in self-cleaning function. A simple button press initiates the cycle, helping to keep the internal components free of mineral buildup and ensuring the ice it produces stays fresh.
This feature, combined with the included ice scoop, makes the whole process from making to serving practically mess-free. The compact design is a real space-saver, measuring just right for most countertops without dominating them. It holds nearly a pound of ice at a time, freeing up valuable real estate in your freezer for actual food.
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 to produce a specific type of ice that many people find prefer. If you’re a fan of that soft, chewable nugget ice often found in restaurants and hospitals, this machine aims to bring that experience directly into your home or office without requiring a major installation. This unit focuses on convenience and speed.
It can begin producing its first batch of pebble ice in about 20 minutes from a cold start, which means you can have ice ready for a gathering or a personal drink relatively quickly. Over a full day, it can produce up to 33 pounds of ice, storing about 2.4 pounds in its built-in basket at any one time. The compact size is a key feature; it’s meant to sit on a countertop, bar, or in a home office, freeing up the ice-making duties from your freezer.
This not only saves freezer space but also provides ice on demand without the need for trays or bags. The ice itself is the main attraction. These small, pellet-shaped nuggets are excellent for cooling beverages rapidly due to their greater surface area compared to larger cubes. They are also soft and chewable, which many users enjoy as a treat at the end of their drink. It’s particularly popular for sodas, cocktails, iced coffee, and even for therapeutic use in coolers.
Operation is managed through a simple control panel with LED indicator lights. These lights communicate the machine’s status, letting you know when it’s actively making ice, when the basket is full, or when the water reservoir needs a refill. Maintenance is simplified by a one-touch self-cleaning function. This cycle helps to reduce mineral buildup and keep the internals clean, which is important for any ice maker’s longevity and hygiene.
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 nugget ice maker designed for households that go through a lot of ice. It focuses on producing a specific, popular type of ice while offering smart home convenience and a self-contained water supply to keep the ice flowing. At its core, this machine is all about Opal Nugget Ice, often called “the good ice.” This isn’t your standard hard cube.
It’s made from compacted ice flakes, resulting in a chewable, crunchable texture that many people prefer. It chills drinks quickly without watering them down to fast, and its porous structure seems to hold onto the flavor of your beverage better than solid cubes. If you enjoy that soft, chewable ice from certain restaurants, this is the type it replicates. A key upgrade in this 2.0 XL model is the integrated 1-gallon water tank. This is a big deal for flexibility.
You are not tethered to a water line or constantly refilling a tiny reservoir. The large tank means you can produce significantly more ice between refills—up to three times more compared to the original model. When it’s time to refill or clean, the tank detaches easily from the unit. In terms of output, the machine is rated to create up to 38 pounds of nugget ice in a 24-hour period. It begins producing its first batch in about 10 minutes, making ice at a rate of roughly 1.6 pounds per hour.
The removable ice drawer can hold about 3 pounds of fresh ice at a time for easy access. This Opal ice maker includes built-in WiFi for smart connectivity. By pairing it with the SmartHQ app on your phone, you can check the ice level, schedule when you want new ice to be ready, and receive automatic software updates that can add new features over time. It also works with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free control, letting you start an ice cycle with just a command.
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 appreciates the particular joy of soft, chewable ice. This machine focuses on producing that classic nugget or pebble ice, the kind that’s perfect for chilling a drink quickly without being to hard on your teeth. If your household goes through a lot of ice for daily drinks or for entertaining, this model offers a convinient countertop solution.
Its core function is effective ice-making.
It can produce up to 33 pounds of ice over a 24-hour period, which translates to roughly 48 standard cups. This capacity makes it suitable for more than just a single person’s drink; it can support a family’s needs or keep up with the demand of a small gathering. Whether you’re filling glasses with iced tea, cooling down coffee, or need ice for preserving food in a cooler, it’s built to handle regular use.
You can expect the first batch of ice to be ready in about six minutes, providing a near-instant supply when you need it most.
The experience of using the ice is a key feature. The nugget ice it creates has a softer, more chewable texture compared to traditional hard cubes. This style of ice also has a greater surface area, which means it chills your beverage more rapidly and evenly. It integrates well into the drink without leaving you with just a few large, melting cubes.
For fans of sodas, cocktails, or even just water, this type of ice can genuinely enhance the drinking experience.
Operation is kept simple with user-friendly controls. The buttons and status indicators are clearly placed on the front of the unit, allowing you to start a cycle or check on its progress from across the room. It’s essentially a one-click operation to begin making ice. Maintenance is also streamlined.
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 is designed for anyone who appreciates the unique texture of soft, chewable ice. If your household goes through a lot of ice for drinks, or you simply prefer the crunch of pebble ice over traditional cubes, this compact machine aims to be a convenient kitchen companion.
Its core function is producing what many consider the perfect chewable ice—airy, crunchy nuggets that chill drinks quickly without being to hard on the teeth.
This texture is particularly nice for sodas, iced coffee, and cocktails, as it doesn’t dilute beverages as rapidly as solid cubes and can actually enhance the drinking experience. The machine can make up to 35 pounds of this pebble ice in a 24-hour period, with a 1.5-liter water tank and a removable basket that holds about 2.6 pounds of ice at a time.
This balance helps reduce constant refills while ensuring you have a steady supply on hand for daily use or when guest arrive.
One of the standout features is the focus on easy maintenance. Over time, mineral buildup can affect any ice maker’s performance. Typhur includes a one-touch cleaning function; you press the “Clean” button and a high-pressure pump runs a 7-minute cycle to flush the internal ice path.
To support this, the package comes with 8 packs of dedicated cleaner and descaler, which takes a lot of the guesswork out of keeping the machine running hygienically. For best results and to maintain that ideal ice texture, it’s recommended to use filtered or distilled water, as water with high mineral content can lead to a sandy feel in the ice.
Considering its size, the unit is built for flexibility.
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 for your home, kitchen, or on-the-go adventures. It’s core promise is simple: deliver fresh, bullet-shaped ice quickly and efficiently, so you can focus on your guests, your meal, or simply enjoying a cold drink without the hassle of traditional ice trays. You’ll get your first batch of 9 bullet ice cubes in just about 6 minutes, which is perfect for when you need ice in a pinch.
Thanks to its upgraded compressor, this machine can produce up to 26 pounds of ice over a 24-hour period. That means it can keep up with the demands of a busy kitchen, a weekend party, or even a camping trip where a steady ice supply is essential. You won’t have to worry about running out during a gathering. A key feature of this model is the ability to choose between two ice cube sizes. The smaller cubes are ideal for chilling beverages like soda, juice, or cocktails quickly.
The larger cubes are excellent for applications where slower melting is prefered, such as keeping a cooler of seafood fresh, chilling a bottle of wine, or for drinks like whiskey where minimal dilution is key. This flexibility makes it useful for a wide variety of situations, from daily use to special occasions. Operation is straightforward. It has a one-touch function to start the ice-making cycle, and smart indicator lights let you know when the ice basket is full or when more water is needed.
The design includes an infrared sensor to help manage the production cycle. Weighing just over 12 pounds and with a compact footprint, it’s easy to move and fits neatly on most countertops. The straight-row ice release helps the ice pile evenly in the included basket, maximizing storage. Maintenance is also made simple. The unit has a self-cleaning mode that you can activate by holding the power button, which helps ensure hygenic ice production.
Totnz Boost Ice Maker with 2.5L Expanding Ice Basket & 1.8L Water Tank, 9 Bullet Ice Cubes in 6 Mins, Ice Maker Countertop with LED Touch Control Self-Cleaning, Ice Machine 2 Ice Sizes
The Totnz Boost Ice Maker is designed for anyone who needs a reliable, high-volume supply of ice without the hassle of a traditional freezer tray or a bulky, installed unit. It’s a compact countertop appliance that prioritizes speed, capacity, and convenience, making it a practical solution for home kitchens, small offices, RVs, or entertaining.
One of the standout features is its expanded capacity.
The unit boasts a 2.5-liter ice basket, which can hold about nine cups of ice—that’s roughly double what many similar portable models offer. This means you’re not constantly having to empty the basket to keep the cycle going. The machine is built to maintain a ready supply, which is ideal when you have guests over or during a long workday. Paired with this is a sizable 1.8-liter water tank.
This larger reservoir means you’ll be refilling it about 50% less often compared to ice makers with smaller tanks. You can expect a more continuous flow of ice, saving you time and effort, especially in situations where a kitchen sink isn’t right at hand.
When it comes to performance, the Totnz Boost focuses on speed. It can produce its first batch of nine bullet-shaped ice cubes in approximately six minutes, with a daily yield of up to 26 pounds.
This rate is notably faster than many standard machines. You also have the flexibility of choosing between two ice cube sizes, allowing you to select what’s best for a tall glass of water or a more compact cocktail. The control system is straightforward and visual. A front LED panel uses color-coded lights to communicate the machine’s status: white for making ice, red when it needs water, green when the basket is full, and blue for the self-cleaning mode.
Avanti Nugget Ice Maker with Electronic Controls and Dispenser Countertop Use Makes 33lbs of Chewable Ice Per Day Perfect for Kitchen Office or Breakroom, Includes Ice Bin, 195-Watts, Stainless Steel
The Avanti Nugget Ice Maker with Electronic Controls and Dispenser is designed for anyone who appreciates the soft, chewable ice often found at cafes and restaurants. This countertop appliance focuses on providing a consistent supply of that specific type of ice with a straightforward, user-friendly operation.
At its core, this machine produces what’s commonly known as nugget or pellet ice.
This ice has a softer, more chewable texture compared to traditional hard cubes, which some people prefer for cold drinks. The unit can make up to 33 pounds of this ice over a 24-hour period. The “never run out” claim hinges on this daily production capacity, meaning for personal or small group use in the settings it’s designed for, you should have a steady supply on hand.
It stores the ice it makes in a included bin, which has a capacity of several pounds, so you’re not making ice one glass at a time.
Its compact, countertop design is a key feature. It doesn’t require a permanent water line hookup; instead, you pour water directly into a built-in reservoir. This makes it portable and easy to set up in various spots.
It’s suited not just for a home kitchen, but also for an office, a break room, a lobby, or even a garage workspace where you might want quick access to ice without a full-sized freezer. The stainless steel finish aims to offer a look that fits in with other appliances.
Operation is managed through electronic controls. A button allows you to dispense ice directly into your cup without needing to open the bin or scoop it, which can be more hygienic and convenient.
Nugget Ice Maker Countertop – Silonn Pebble Ice Maker Machine Crushed Ice, Pellet Ice 44 lbs per Day, Pull-Out Water Tank and Removable Ice Basket for Home, Kitchen, Stainless Steel
The Silonn Nugget Ice Maker Countertop is designed for those who appreciate the specific texture and cooling power of pebble, or nugget, ice. This machine focuses on delivering that soft, chewable ice you often find in premium sodas and cocktails directly from your kitchen counter, with an emphasis on straightforward operation and minimal maintenance. At its core, this machine is about speed and volume.
It begins producing its first batch of pellet ice in about 10 minutes, which is ideal for when you need ice quickly without planning ahead. Over a full day, it can generate up to 44 pounds of ice, ensuring you have a steady supply for parties, everyday drinks, or even for soothing applications. The ice itself is the star—it’s that small, crunchy nugget ice that cools beverages rapidly without watering them down to much, helping to preserve the drinks original flavor profile.
Convenience in daily use was clearly a priority in the design. Instead of struggling with a fixed reservoir, the water tank pulls out smoothly from the front. This makes filling it at the sink incredibly simple and also means cleaning it is no hassle. Similarly, the ice basket is fully removable. When a batch is ready, you can just lift the basket out to serve guests or refill your own glass, which is far easier than scooping from a fixed bin.
The control panel uses simple LED buttons to let you start the cycle or select the ice size, and it includes a helpful self-cleaning function. A quick press initiates this mode, helping to reduce mineral buildup, and when combined with the removable parts, overall upkeep is kept very manageable. The machine maintains a relatively small footprint for its output, measuring 9.4 by 13.6 by 14.8 inches. This allows it to fit on most countertops without dominating the space.
Crushed Ice Maker Countertop Buying Guide
That perfect, fluffy crushed ice for your drinks doesn’t have to come from a noisy, expensive fridge or a messy bag. A dedicated crushed ice maker countertop is a compact appliance that sits on your kitchen counter and produces ice on demand. It’s all about convenience and texture. You’ll want to look at a few key things to find the right one for your home.
Ice Production Speed & Capacity
How much ice do you need, and how fast? Check the machine’s hourly output. A smaller model might make enough for a few evening cocktails, but for a party, you’ll want a faster producer. Also, look at the size of the internal storage bin. A larger bin means you can make a batch and have it ready to go, so your not constantly running the machine for every single glass.
Ice Texture Options
Not all crushed ice is the same. Some machines offer just one setting, which is fine if you love that classic slushy texture. But others give you choices, like a finer snow cone-style ice or a slightly chunkier nugget. Think about what you drink most. A fine crush is great for smoothies and slushies, while a chunkier hold up better in a soda.
Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance
This is a big one for long-term happiness. Ice makers need regular cleaning to prevent scale and keep the ice tasting fresh. Look for models with removable parts that are dishwasher-safe, like the water reservoir and ice bin. A self-cleaning function can be a huge time-saver, too. If it’s a hassle to clean, you probably won’t do it as often as you should.
Noise Level During Operation
These machines aren’t silent. They have motors and grinding mechanisms. If your kitchen is open to your living area or you plan to use it while people are talking, check the decibel rating. A quieter model (often listed under 50 dB) is much less intrusive, especially if you want to run it while watching TV or having a conversation nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crushed Ice Maker Countertop
What is a countertop crushed ice maker?
It’s a compact appliance that sits on your kitchen counter. You just add water, and it produces fluffy, chewable crushed ice on demand. It’s different from a regular ice maker that makes hard cubes.
How fast do thay make ice?
Most models are pretty quick! You can often get your first batch of crushed ice in under 10 minutes. After that, it produces ice continuously until the bin is full.
Do I need to hook it up to a water line?
Nope, that’s the big convenience. These are usually manual-fill. You pour water into a built-in reservoir. This makes them super portable and easy to set up anywhere.
What kind of ice does it make?
It makes that soft, pebbly crushed ice perfect for drinks like sodas, smoothies, or cocktails. Some machines offer different textures, but crushed is the main event.
How much ice can it hold?
It varies. The reservoir size and storage bin together typically hold enough for a small gathering. You’ll want to check the “ice production per day” spec if you host parties often.
Are they noisy when running?
They do make some noise, similar to a blender or food processor, but only for a few minutes at a time. It’s not usually a big disturbance for most folks.
How do I clean it?
Cleaning is simple. You’ll usually just need to wipe the exterior and occasionally run a vinegar or cleaner solution through the machine to descale it. Always check your manual first.
Can I use it for anything besides drinks?
Absolutely! Crushed ice is great for chilling salad bowls or seafood displays. It’s also handy for first aid cold packs. Some people even use it to keep their pets cool.
What should I look for when buying one?
Think about size, ice production speed, and bin capacity. Also check how easy it is to clean. Reading reviews can really help you see how reliable a model is over time.
Where’s the best place to put it?
Anywhere with a flat, stable surface and an electrical outlet. Near your drink station or entertainment area makes the most sense. Just leave a few inches of space around it for air flow.
Bottom Line
So, is a countertop ice maker right for your kitchen? It really comes down to how much you use ice. If you find yourself constantly refilling trays or running out for parties, one of these machines can be a real help. They’re simple to use and fit easily on a counter. Just add water, press a button, and you get ice fast.
Think about your daily routine and the space you have. A good crushed ice maker countertop can make your summer days easier or improve your home bar setup. It’s a handy tool that solves one specific problem very well. Just remember to check reviews for noise levels and reliability before you choose one. That way, you’ll find a model that works for you.