Top 5 Undercounter Ice Makers: Review & Buying Guide

Imagine hosting a summer party, and your regular ice tray just won’t keep up. The drinks get warm, and the fun fizzles out. Sound familiar? Many homeowners face this exact problem when summer heat hits or when they decide to upgrade their kitchen or bar area. Choosing the perfect undercounter ice maker can feel like navigating a maze of features, sizes, and brands.

You want perfectly clear ice, fast production, and a machine that fits seamlessly under your counter without causing headaches. The sheer volume of choices—from nugget ice to gourmet cubes—often leads to confusion and decision fatigue. We know you want a reliable solution that serves up ice on demand, every time.

This post cuts through the clutter. We will break down exactly what you need to look for, comparing the top styles and answering your biggest questions about installation and maintenance. By the end of this guide, you will have the confidence to select the ideal undercounter ice maker that fits your lifestyle and budget perfectly.

Top Ice Makers Undercounter Recommendations

No. 1

EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100lbs/24H Stainless Steel Under Counter ice Machine with 33lbs Ice Storage Capacity, Freestanding Ice Maker.

HIGH CAPACITY & FAST ICE MAKING – Designed for heavy-duty usage, this commercial ice maker produces up to 100 lbs of ice per 24 hours, crafting 45 clear ice cubes per cycle in just 11-15 minutes. It features a large built-in storage bin holding 33 lbs of ice, ensuring you never run out during peak hours. The automatic overflow prevention system guarantees safe operation, making it perfect for large families, parties, or commercial settings.
ETL CERTIFIED FOR COMMERCIAL & HOME USE – Safety and quality are paramount. Unlike standard units, the EUHOMY ice maker is ETL certified for both household and commercial applications. Its versatile design allows it to be used in indoor/outdoor kitchens, restaurants, bars, hotels, or grocery stores. Whether you are hosting a backyard BBQ or running a coffee shop, this machine delivers reliable performance.
INTUITIVE LCD CONTROL PANEL – Take full control with the smart LCD display. It allows you to monitor the ambient temperature and adjust the ice-making time to customize the thickness of your ice cubes—thin for smoothies or thick for drinks. The panel also features a one-touch Automatic Cleaning function, simplifying maintenance and ensuring your ice is always fresh and hygienic.
EFFICIENT COOLING & QUIET OPERATION – Equipped with a powerful yet quiet compressor, this under-counter ice machine creates ice efficiently without disrupting your environment. The advanced energy-saving technology helps reduce electricity consumption, lowering your operating costs over time. The stainless steel construction not only looks professional but also provides durability and effective heat dissipation.
INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE TIPS – This unit utilizes Gravity Drainage (requires a floor drain or gravity outlet; strictly no pump included). Please ensure the drain hose is positioned lower than the machine specifically for optimal drainage. IMPORTANT: Before first use, keep the machine upright for at least 24 hours to let the refrigerant settle. We recommend running the self-cleaning cycle twice before consuming the first batch of ice.

No. 2

EUHOMY 15" W Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker Machine, 90 Lb/Day Auto-Cleaning & 24H Timer, Gravity Drainage,Stainless Steel Built-in Freestanding Ice Maker, 24 Lb Bin, Ideal for Commercial & Home

Advanced & Fast Ice Making: Our commercial under counter ice maker machine can produce 90 lbs of ice in 24 hours, providing 40 clear ice cubes every 10-18 minutes for you and your family. The 24 lb storage container ensures a constant supply of ice, meeting all your daily ice needs for your home, restaurant, bar, or hotel.
Compact Design: The built-in design with dimensions of 14.96 x 18.47 x 33.99 inches (including adjustable feet) makes it perfect for any standard height kitchen or bar counter, while also allowing the ice maker to be used as a standalone unit.
Reversible Door & Cold Insulation: The stainless steel ice maker machine door with a handle can be installed with left or right hinges, allowing you to choose the opening direction according to your needs. The 3-layer housing material ensures longer-lasting ice cubes, preventing them from melting quickly.
Smart LCD Control Panel & Customizable Ice Thickness: The multifunctional control panel displays the ambient temperature and allows you to adjust the ice cube size by changing the ice-making time. The 24-hour timer function lets you set the machine to start or stop running at your convenience.
Easy-to-Clean & Prolonged Life: The self-cleaning function, activated by pressing the "Timer Clean" button for 5 seconds, helps maintain the ice maker's efficiency and longevity. We recommend cleaning the machine regularly according to usage. The ice maker requires a water supply . Be sure to keep the machine upright for at least 24 hours before using it.

No. 3

COTLIN 15" W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker with 22LBS Storage Bin, Crescent Ice, Free Standing Built-in Ice Maker for Residential Commercial Use, No Drain Required, ETL Approved

【Upgraded Drainless Ice Maker】This under counter ice maker is made of brushed stainless steel, which is more durable and easy to clean. The 22-pound ice storage capacity meets the needs of long-term and large-capacity ice use. The powerful freezing system ensures that the ice cubes are always kept within the range of 26.6-32°F to avoid melting.
【Unique Ice Shape】Our crescent ice maker is designed for you who pursue high-quality drinks. It can efficiently produce high-quality, pure, and tasteless crescent-shaped ice cubes. The unique shape and slow melting characteristics can keep drinks cool and delicious for longer, making it the perfect partner for exquisite drinks.
【Detailed Design】One-touch switch to start making ice cubes, just press to start the ice making process, no cumbersome settings required. The door and hinges of the ice maker are reversible, you can choose to install it on the left or right side according to your needs, and the feet have an adjustable function, which can flexibly adapt to different space layouts.
【Easy Installation】This drainless ice maker adopts advanced drainage-free design, completely bid farewell to cumbersome drainage pipe installation, no need to hire a plumber to install it, you only need to connect the water supply connector and power cord to start normal use. The size design of 14.9"W x 18.6"D x 33.8"H can be easily placed under most standard kitchen counters.
【Quality Assurance】Each built-in ice maker has passed ETL certification and meets strict ETL safety and quality certification standards, ensuring that our ice makers meet the highest industry standards in terms of safety and reliability. COTLIN also provides lifetime service support, so you can choose and use this ice maker with confidence.

No. 4

Commercial Ice Maker Machine 85Lbs/Day, 24Lbs Storage, Built-in Undercounter Ice Maker with Auto-Cleaning & Timer, Freestanding Stainless Steel Ice Machine, Ideal for Home Office Restaurant Bar

Advanced & Fast Ice Making: Enjoy a constant supply of crystal-clear ice with our commercial under counter ice maker. It produces up to 85 lbs of ice every 24 hours and makes 40 clear cubes in just 10–18 minutes, perfect for family gatherings, parties, restaurants, bars, or hotels. The 24 lb built-in storage bin ensures you’ll never run out of ice when you need it most.
Compact Built-In or Freestanding Design: Designed to fit seamlessly under any standard kitchen or bar counter, this ice maker measures 14.96" x 18.47" x 33.99" (with adjustable feet). Its sleek stainless steel construction complements any décor and also works perfectly as a freestanding unit, offering flexibility for any space.
Reversible Door & Superior Cold Insulation: The reversible stainless steel under counter ice maker machine door allows you to choose the opening direction left or right to suit your layout. The 3-layer insulated housing locks in cold air, ensuring longer-lasting ice cubes and reducing melting.
Smart LCD Panel with Adjustable Ice Thickness: The intuitive LCD control panel displays the ambient temperature and lets you customize the ice thickness by adjusting the ice-making cycle time. With a 24-hour timer, you can schedule the ice maker to start or stop automatically, saving time and energy.
Self-Cleaning Function & Easy Maintenance: Keep your ice clean and fresh effortlessly. Activate the self-cleaning mode by pressing the “Timer Clean” button for 5 seconds. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and extends the ice machine’s lifespan. (Note: This ice maker machine requires a water supply. Please keep the unit upright for at least 24 hours before first use.)

No. 5

ICYGLEE Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker Machine, 100Lbs/Day with 24lbs Storage, Built-in Freestanding Ice Maker, Auto-Cleaning, 24H Timer, for Commercial & Home Use. (Stainless)

Rapid & Large Ice Production: Our ice maker can produce 100lbs clear ice cubes one day, the average ice making time for each cycle just taking 8 to 16mins, which means that the under counter ice maker can meet your demand for ice efficiently, and let you enjoy the tasty ice cubes easily
Efficient & Adjustable Ice Cubes: Equipped with an efficient compressor and 3 layer insulation materials, the ice cubes that our under counter ice maker machine produce are clear and refresh, besides, you can also control the thickness of the ice cubes through the button to meet the need of various drinks, like smoothie/cocktail/whisky for daily use. These perfect cubes are ideal for bartending and home hosting
Simple & User-friendly Design: Because of the LCD panel, there is no need to worry about the machine's operation, and the ice maker also have the reminder of water shortage and ice full, help you replenish water or remove ice cubes promptly, and the design of reversible door also give you the flexible choice to decide which direction to open the door. It comes with an ice scoop so you can easily fill a cup or grab a few cubes directly from the freezer
Auto-cleaning & Timer Function: Considering the preciousness of your time, we have equipped our under counter ice machine with automatic cleaning, so you can easily clean your ice maker machine by just hold the "Clean" button for 5s, helps maintain the under counter ice maker machine's efficiency and longevity and the 24H Timer function can also help you to make ice according to your schedule
Wondeful Size & Customer Service: With the size of 20.4"D x 14.96"W x 33.9"H, there are two types of setting style for you to choose, individual placed or under counter, if you have any questions while using the ice maker, please reach out to us promptly, and we will strive to provide you with help

No. 6

Coolski 130Lbs/ Day Under Counter Ice Maker Machine, Stainless Steel Built-in Freestanding Ice Maker with 30LBS Ice Storage, Perfect for Commercial & Home Use, 15 Inch Wide

Fast Ice Making & Storage: 15”W stainless steel under the counter ice maker produces an impressive 130 pounds of ice each day, and has the capacity to store 30 pounds. Our commercial under counter ice maker machine can be installed indoors or outdoors. This ice maker is front vented and has a forced air refrigeration system. Idel for fridge owner, entertainer, bartender, connoisseur, or space saver.
Customizable Ice Thickness: You get to choose from three cube sizes, depending on your needs. Whether you’re making cocktails, packing a cooler, or entertaining the whole family for Thanksgiving, our built in ice maker is an excellent option. This freestanding ice maker measures only 15''W × 21''D × 33''H, slim design to fit into narrow spaces. The 3-layer housing material ensures longer-lasting ice cubes, preventing them from melting quickly.
LCD Digital Control Panel: You can control this ice maker with a user-friendly control panel and check on your ice with the help of the bright LED lights. It comes with an ice scoop so you can easily fill a bowl for your guests or grab a few cubes directly from the freezer. Be sure to keep the machine upright for at least 24 hours before using it.
Direct Drainage, No Leaking: A gravity drain.Your selection of one will be based on the installation location. You’ll need to connect the water line to the kitchen water supply and run the drain hose into the floor drain before plugging the machine in. If you need to use an external pump to drain water, please purchase the pump yourself and make sure the pump is below the floor level of the ice machine.
Water filter&Self-Cleaning: Our commercial under counter ice maker equipped with the inline filter, remove sediment from the water before freezing to improve taste and smell. It combined with self cleaning function, filters help your ice stay crisp and clear. We also with equipped special cleaners. In order to maintain your ice maker, you'll have to clean it at least once every six months. Ice maker machine are certified by DOE.

No. 7

Kismile Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker, Pebble Ice Machine 80 lbs/Day, 24H Timer, Self-Cleaning, Double Ice Baskets, Built-in Ice Maker for Home & Office, Grey

【Efficient Ice Production】:This large offline ice maker is designed to provide fast ice making, ensuring that you never run out of ice cubes. With its high-capacity ice making capability, it can start making ice in just 6 minutes and quickly produce 80 pounds of ice per day, making it an ideal choice for residential and commercial use.
【Soft and Crispy Crushed Ice】:The ice is crystal clear, easy to chew, melts slowly, and maintains the original flavor of whiskey and cold drinks, so you can chew on the flavored ice after drinking. Whether you need ice for beverages, salad bars, or seafood displays, this ice maker can meet your requirements.
【Two Ice Baskets】:Two ice baskets allow you to complete one round of ice making, while the second basket can continue to store ice cubes. Each ice basket has a storage capacity of 9 pounds, so ice making will never stop.
【User-Friendly Design】:Made of high-quality materials and carefully designed with dimensions of 16.3 * 33.1 * 15 inches, this commercial ice maker can withstand the harsh test of continuous use in harsh commercial or home environments. The stainless steel casing not only provides durability, but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal.
【LCD Control Panel for One-Touch Operation】:The intuitive control panel is easy to operate, and anyone can easily operate the ice maker. In the hot summer, you only need to press a button to feel the cool ice cubes, one click self-cleaning, 24-hour timer, and equipped with water shortage and full ice reminders to ensure that your ice cubes never stop.

No. 8

BRAMA Ice Maker Machine 50/lbs. Ice Daily Undercounter Built-in or Freestanding Stainless Steel Construction with Reversible Door and Auto Shut Off for Indoor or Outdoor Use, Metallic

ICE ON DEMAND: Produces up to 50 pounds of ice per day; stores up to 25 pounds of ice; Dimensions with feet 14 5/8 W x 24 7/8 D x 32 17/25 H
CHOOSE YOUR CUBE SIZE: This Ice Maker can produce 2 sizes of ice
INDOOR AND OUTDOOR USE: Front venting for recessed, built-in, or freestanding indoor or outdoor installation. Ice maker must be level for best results. For use in ambient temperatures ranging from 45°- 110° F
CONVENIENT FEATURES: Stainless steel design, blue LED interior lighting, reversible door, self cleaning, auto shut-off, water supply and drain hoses, and ice scoop included
BEST USE TIP: For best results, use this appliance in the coolest area of the room, away from heat producing appliances and out of direct sunlight, uses R134a Refrigerant

Your Essential Guide to Buying an Undercounter Ice Maker

An undercounter ice maker brings cool convenience right into your kitchen or home bar. These handy appliances fit neatly under your existing countertops, offering a steady supply of ice without taking up precious counter space. Choosing the right one requires knowing what to look for. This guide helps you make a smart purchase.

1. Key Features to Look For

These features decide how well the machine works for you:

Ice Production Rate

Daily Yield: This tells you how much ice the machine makes in 24 hours (usually measured in pounds). For parties, you need a higher yield, perhaps 30–50 lbs. For daily family use, 25 lbs might be enough.
Ice Storage Capacity: This is how much ice the built-in bin holds. If you make a lot of ice but don’t use it right away, look for a larger bin.

Ice Style

Different machines make different shapes of ice. Decide which shape suits your drinks best:

Cube Ice: The standard, classic ice cube.
Nugget Ice (or Sonic Ice): Soft, chewable ice that chills drinks fast. Many people love this style.
Half-Moon Ice: Flat, half-circle cubes that fit well in glasses.

Installation Type

Freestanding/Portable: These units often just need an electrical outlet and can be moved. They usually require manual water filling.
Built-in/Plumbed: These connect directly to your home’s water line, meaning you never have to refill a tank. They also need a drain line, which improves convenience significantly.

Controls and Cleaning

Look for simple digital controls. Self-cleaning functions are a huge plus; they make maintenance much easier.

2. Important Materials for Longevity

The materials used affect how long your ice maker lasts and how clean the ice stays:

Stainless Steel Exterior: This looks sharp in modern kitchens and resists rust well.
Insulated Storage Bin: A well-insulated bin keeps the ice from melting quickly, even if the machine isn’t actively making ice.
Food-Grade Plastic/Stainless Steel Internals: Ensure the parts that touch the water and ice are made from durable, safe materials. Stainless steel parts generally last longer than plastic ones.

3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Quality is often hidden inside the machine:

Improving Quality:

Water Filtration: Units with built-in water filters produce clearer, better-tasting ice and reduce mineral buildup inside the machine. This improves the overall quality.
Quiet Operation: Good compressors run quietly. If the machine sits near a living area, look for low decibel (dB) ratings.

Reducing Quality:

Poor Drainage: If the drain system is slow or nonexistent (on non-plumbed models), standing water can lead to mold or slow performance.
Thin Insulation: Thin walls in the storage bin cause the ice to melt faster, forcing the machine to work harder and use more energy.

4. User Experience and Use Cases

Think about where and how you will use the machine:

Home Bar Setup: If you frequently host parties, prioritize high daily yield and reliable plumbing connections. You want ice available instantly.
Kitchen Upgrade: If you want to replace your refrigerator’s small ice maker, look for a unit that matches the dimensions of the space you have available under the counter.
Outdoor Kitchens: If you install one outside, ensure the model is rated for outdoor use, as temperature fluctuations can stress the components.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Undercounter Ice Makers

Q: Do undercounter ice makers need to be connected to a water line?

A: Most high-capacity models require a direct water line connection (plumbing) for continuous operation. Smaller, portable units can be filled manually.

Q: How much space do these machines need underneath the counter?

A: Standard widths are usually 15 inches, but always check the specific model’s dimensions. You also need a few inches of clearance above for ventilation.

Q: How often do I need to clean my undercounter ice maker?

A: If it has a self-cleaning feature, run it once a month. If you clean it manually, aim for every three to six months to prevent mold and mineral buildup.

Q: Can I use an undercounter ice maker without a drain?

A: If the unit is not plumbed to a drain, you must manually empty the drain pan regularly. If you skip this, water overflow can cause damage.

Q: Are undercounter ice makers energy efficient?

A: Newer models are generally efficient, especially those with good insulation. Look for Energy Star ratings if efficiency is a major concern.

Q: What is the average lifespan of these appliances?

A: With proper maintenance, a quality undercounter ice maker typically lasts between 10 and 15 years.

Q: Does the ice melt if the power goes out?

A: Yes, the ice will melt slowly, depending on the quality of the bin insulation. Models with good insulation retain ice longer than those with poor insulation.

Q: How long does it take for a new unit to start making ice?

A: After installation and connecting the water line, the first batch of ice is usually ready in about 60 to 90 minutes.

Q: Can I install an undercounter ice maker myself?

A: Simple plug-in models are easy to install. However, plumbing in a unit that connects to a water line and drain usually requires a professional plumber.

Q: Why is my ice maker making a loud buzzing sound?

A: A slight hum is normal as the compressor runs. However, loud buzzing or rattling often means the machine is not level or the drain line is clogged.

Larry Fish

Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!