Top 5 Rated Refrigerator Ice Makers: Buyer’s Guide

Imagine this: you host a summer barbecue, and your refrigerator’s ice maker sputters out its last few cubes. Suddenly, your perfectly chilled drinks are just… warm. We’ve all been there. Choosing a new refrigerator is exciting, but the ice maker often becomes the biggest headache. Do you need fast ice? Crushed or cubed? And how do you know which brands actually deliver?

The market is flooded with models, each promising the best ice production, but hidden features and confusing ratings can quickly turn excitement into frustration. Picking the wrong one means dealing with slow production, jams, or expensive repairs down the line. You deserve ice on demand without the drama!

This guide cuts through the noise. We break down what those official ratings mean and reveal which refrigerator ice makers truly earn their high scores for reliability and speed. By the end of this post, you will know exactly which features matter most for your busy kitchen.

Top Rated Refrigerator Ice Makers Recommendations

No. 1
Frigidaire IM117000 Ice Maker Kit, One Size, White - New Genuine OEM Part
  • The IM117000 is a genuine OEM Frigidaire Refrigerator Ice Maker Kit.
  • The Frigidaire IM117000 is white in color.
  • The IM117000 is for Top Mount Refrigerators and features sensor arm that activates when ice is low and stops automatically when full.
  • The Frigidaire IM117000 Refrigerator Ice Maker Kit will freeze, release and store ice in a container.
  • It is recommended to always validate the needed part number either with your appliance service manual or by contacting the manufacturer of your appliance.
No. 2
NEWBULIG Ice Makers Countertop with Handle, Portable Ice Machine, 9 Bullet Ice Cubes in 6 Mins, 26lbs in 24Hrs, Auto-Cleaning, with Basket and Scoop, for Home, Kitchen, RV, Camping, Green
  • 【Portable Ice Maker】 The countertop ice maker measures 8.8 x 11.6 x 12.5 inches, 15.4 pounds. and its compact size doesn't take up much space. Our small ice maker comes with a sturdy handle. Easy to carry, this mini ice machine maker countertop can be placed in your kitchen, patio, office or RV.Plus, these bullet ice won't stick together easily or hurt your hands or mouth, making them perfect for cold drinks, iced coffee or chewy snacks!
  • 【6 Mins Ice-Making】 9 bullet ice cubes can be made in just 6 minutes. Equipped with a 1.5-liter tank and powerful compressor, the ice makers countertop can easily produce up to 26.5 pounds of ice per day. This quick ice making feature ensures that you are always ready for a party or spontaneous celebration.In refrigeration, but also at less than 40db normal noise, ensuring a comfortable and quiet environment to enjoy ice-making.
  • 【Two Sizes of Ice Cubes】 You can make two different sizes of ice cubes with this counter top ice machine maker. Small ice cubes are great for keeping seafood or beer fresh and cool for a long time. Large cubes are better for making iced coffee or cold drinks for a quick cooling effect. Smooth bullet ice that won't hurt your hands or mouth during use.
  • 【Smart Operation & Self-Cleaning】The ice maker has an advanced infrared sensor. The "ICE FULL" indicator flashes to remind you to take out ice to prevent overflowing when the basket is full. And it'll remind you to add water by flashing "ADD WATER". Additionally, the table top ice maker machine has a one-touch auto-cleaning function. Press the “ON/OFF” for 5s after adding water to run automatic mode for 15mins. Not only are your hands-free but also you get a clean ice maker.
  • 【Ice Full Light】****When ice is full, the ice full light will be red all the time. You need to press on/off button to restart the machine****
No. 3
EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle, 26lbs in 24Hrs, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Auto-Cleaning Portable Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Kitchen/Camping/RV. (Black)
  • 6 Mins Ice-Making & Ultra Quieter: Our Euhomy ice maker only takes 6mins that will enjoy the first batch of fresh bullet ice. With a 1.2L water tank and powerful compressor, the portable ice maker easily makes maximum ice capacity to 26lbs ice per day and holds up to 1.3lbs ice at a time. Also, our ice maker is not only excellent in refrigeration, but also at less than 45db normal noise, ensuring a comfortable and quiet environment to enjoy ice-making, similar to a working freezer.
  • Portable Design & Perfect Bullet Ice: Our ice maker comes with a sturdy handle, weighs only 13lbs and with compact size 11.57(L)*11.42(W)*8.74(H)in. Those features make ice maker easy to carry and perform well on any occasions like Kitchen/Home/Camping/RV/Party/Dorm. Also, the newly designed countertop ice maker produce the most popular bullet-shaped smooth ice cubes, which won't stick together easily or hurt your hands or mouth even are perfect for cold drinks, iced coffee or chew as snacks.
  • Smart Operation & Self-Cleaning: The ice maker has advanced infrared sensor. The "ICE FULL" indicator flashes remind you to take out ice to prevent overflowing when the basket is full. And it'll remind you to add water by flashing "ADD WATER". Additionly, the compact ice maker has a one-touch auto-cleaning function. Press the “ON/OFF” for 5s after adding water to run automatic mode for 30mins. Not only are your hands-free but also you get a clean ice maker.
  • User Friendly & Simple Operation: Euhomy ice maker is a popular and classic model of the moment adopts large see-through window visualized, allowing viewing of the interior ice-making. Equipped with a 170w upgraded compressor that 4kWh/24H energy consumption to save your electricity bills. And with a easy-to-operate controlable panel for faster operation in just two steps, adding water and press "ON/OFF". Then our ice maker will provide you fresh bullet ice for you and your member timely.
  • Superior Quality & Warranty Promise: Include handle, ice basket, ice scoop, manual and well-designed package can as gifts. Our Mission is committed to providing customers with premium Euhomy ice maker at a reasonable price. You totally deserve a more exquisite life! We offer ① 12-month warranty from the original purchase date; ② Lifetime technical service support. Suppose you have any questions about using our Ice Maker, Our 7*24-hour customer support is always ready to help you!
No. 4
Whirlpool WPW10190965 Refrigerator Ice Maker (Replaces W10190965, W11381372) Genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM + FSP) Part
  • The WPW10190965 is a genuine OEM Whirlpool Ice Maker Assembly which is manufactured to exact specifications with high quality materials; ensuring a long lasting perfect fit into the appliance it was manufactured for.
  • The Whirlpool WPW10190965 Refrigerator Ice Maker (Replaces W10190965, W11381372) fits SOME models from the following brands of refrigerator: Whirlpool, Kenmore, Amana, Maytag.
  • The Whirlpool WPW10190965 receives water from the water inlet valve and then holds the water in the ice mold until the water freezes solid; it then automatically ejects the ice and refills to continue the process until the ice storage bin is full
  • The Whirlpool WPW10190965 is a new part that replaces part numbers: W10122506, W10122507, W10122510, W10190965, W10190966, W10190969, W10270037, W11381372, WPW10190965VP
  • Includes The Ice Mold, Ice Maker Body And The Control Device. The Ice Shut-Off Arm and the Front Cover are NOT included; Use the parts from the old Ice Maker or order shut-off arm and front cover separately If needed.
No. 5
BLACK+DECKER 20.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator with Ice Maker, 2-Door Refrigerator with Top Freezer, Freezer with Icemaker and Adjustable Temperature Control, ENERGY STAR, BR2010JIMS, Sliver
  • Spacious 20.1 Cu. Ft. Capacity: This full size refrigerator with freezer provides ample space for your fresh and frozen foods. Top freezer refrigerator is ideal for kitchens in homes and apartments
  • Top Freezer with Ice Machine: Included ice maker with ice probe sensor produces approximately 3.5 lbs. of ice per day, depending on the temperature of the freezer and other operating conditions
  • Adjustable Temperature Control: Maintain optimal freshness with the adjustable temperature control feature. Set the perfect cooling levels for both the refrigerator and top freezer sections
  • Frost-Free Design: Enjoy maintenance-free convenience with frost-free operation. Ensure your refrigerators stay free from ice build-up, making it efficient and easier to keep clean
  • Energy Star Certified: This refrigerator full size features an inverter compressor, ensuring energy efficiency and quiet operation. Ideal for those seeking a full size refrigerator with freezer that is environmentally friendly
No. 6
EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine,80lbs/24H,36 Ice Cubes in 8-12 Mins,Under Counter Ice Maker with Water Filter,12lbs Storage Capacity,Freestanding Ice Machine for Home/Bar/Cafe/Restaurant
  • Ultra-High Efficiency&Endless Ice: Our commercial ice maker machine can produces 80 lbs ice per day , with 36 clear ice cubes ready in just 8-12 minutes, you will have no worry about running out of ice again even during peak hours, meanwhile, the ice maker also has a storage container for 13 lbs of ice, the thickness of our ice machine can also be adjusted for different drinks, like cocktails, beverages, coffee and more, especially ideal for home, bars, restaurants, cafe, hotels and other occasions for using ice.
  • Durable, Reliable & Safety :The ice maker commercial built with a pure copper compressor and also has an ETL certification for commercial use, it is durable and reliable for your home or commercial use, In addition to, the commercial ice machine equipped with an upgraded water filter, which can effectively remove impurities, pollutants, and heavy metals, to keep your ice cube is crystal-clear and drink-safe.
  • Multi-Function Control Panel :The ice maker machine commercial is equipped with a smart LCD panel. Any function and any operation can be solved in the control panel. The panel shows the temperature of the environment, reminding you to pay attention to the temperature of the surrounding environment to ensure the efficiency of ice making. You can also adjust the size of ice cubes by adjusting the ice making time. The industrial ice machine will clean automatically when you press the clean button.The 24-hour timer function lets you set the ice machine to start or stop running at your convenience.
  • Hassle-Free Design&Insulated: The ice maker commercial has a curved cover with a viewing window brings much convenience for opening and observing ice making process, and 3-layer insulation that helps maintain the temperature of the ice, keeping it frozen for longer periods, ensures that your ice remains solid and doesn't melt quickly, providing a reliable supply of ice for your business.
  • Regular Cleaning: We recommends that you clean the ice machine regularly according to the usage. Requires water supply and drain (GRAVITY DRAINAGE). SUGGEST-Drain water once a day(PULLING OUT THE SMALL HOSE ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE WATER TANK). Be sure to keep ice machine upright for at least 24 hours before using it. Also, press the "Timer Clean" button for more than 5 seconds to enter the "Cleaning Program" to clean it twice before making the first batch of ice.
No. 7
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. 8
Endurance Pro 241798224 Ice Maker Replacement for Electrolux Frigidaire Kenmore Sears Refrigerator 241642511 241798201 241798231, 241642501, 5304445222, 5304456669
  • This OEM Ice maker features 8 cubs per cycle and an automatic shut-off arm. You may need to replace yours if there is no ice production, debris in the ice, ice not emptying from the ice maker, leaking water. 115V, 60HZ, 1.6 AMPS
  • 241798224 Frigidaire ICE MAKER REPLACEsS: 241798201, 5304456671, 241642501, 241642503A, 241798211, 241798231, 241642511, 241798209, 3206327, 3206329, 5303320545, 5304445222, 5304456669, PS10057209, AP6332951 B011P1OODQ, 5304456672. 241798220, 75304445222, 75304456669, 75304456671, 75304456672, 4591526, PS12364147
  • COMPATIBLE WITH ELECTROLUX: E23CS75DSS9 E23CS75DSSC E23CS75DSSE E23CS75DSSF E23CS75DSSG E23CS75DSSH E23CS78EPS2 E23CS78EPS3 E23CS78EPS4 E23CS78ESS2 E23CS78GPS1 E23CS78GPS2 E23CS78GPS3 E23CS78GPS4 E23CS78GSS1 E23CS78GSS2 E23CS78GSS3 E23CS78GSS4 E23CS78HPS0 E23CS78HPS1 E23CS78HPS2 E23CS78HPS3 E23CS78HPS5 E23CS78HPS6 E23CS78HPS7 E23CS78HSS0 E23CS78HSS1 E23CS78HSS2 E23CS78HSS3 E23CS78HSS4 E23CS78HSS5 E32AF75FPS0 E32AF75FPS1 E32AF75FPS2 E32AF75FPS3 E32AF75FPS4 E32AF75FPS5 E32AF75FPS6 E32AF75GTT0
  • COMPATIBLE WITH FRIGIDAIRE: FRS6LR5EB3 FRS6LR5EM2 FRS26ZNHB0 FRS26H5ASBA FRS6R5ESB4 FRS26ZRFW3 FRS26RLECS0 FRS26ZSHB0 FRS26H5ASB4 FRS26R4CB1 FRS26H5ASB8 FRS26LF7DS7 FRS26R2AW6 PLHS269ZCB4 FRS6LR5EB6 FRS26R4AW5 FRS6LR5EM8 FRS26ZRGB8 FRS26R4CW0 FRT18LN5BW0 FRS26H5ASB9 FRS6LR5EW6 FRS23H5ASB8 FRS26R2AWA FRS26R4CB3 PLHS269ZCB2 FRS26ZRGWA FRS26R2AWG FRS26R4CW1 FRS26RLECSG FRS6LR5EW3 FRS6R5ESB6 FRS26RLECS2 FRS26ZNHW0 FRS26LH5DS2 FRS26R4AW6 FRS26R2AW8 FRS26ZRGB0 FRS26F5AW0 FRS26R4AW1 FRS24WSCB1
  • This Endurance Pro part by Innovative Supply is UL/CSA approved to assure safe operation and long life and comes with a 1 year, no questions asked, no hassle warr anty.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Rated Refrigerator Ice Makers

A good refrigerator ice maker means endless cold drinks and perfectly chilled treats. But with so many options, how do you pick the best one? This guide helps you choose the right rated ice maker for your kitchen.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping, focus on these important parts:

1. Ice Production Rate

This tells you how much ice the machine makes in 24 hours. If you host big parties often, look for a high production rate, like 30 pounds or more per day. For a small family, 15-20 pounds is usually enough.

2. Ice Type Options

Do you like crunchy cubes, soft nugget ice, or smooth crushed ice? Some top models offer switches to change between these types. Check if the machine can make the ice shape your family prefers.

3. Storage Capacity

This is how much ice the internal bin can hold. A larger bin means you won’t run out quickly, but it takes up more freezer space. Match the capacity to your family’s needs.

4. Self-Cleaning Function

This is a huge time-saver! Many modern ice makers have a cycle that cleans the internal parts automatically. This keeps your ice fresh and reduces your cleaning time.

Important Materials in Ice Makers

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

Durable Plastics

Most internal parts, like the ice mold and storage bin, use strong, food-grade plastic. Make sure the plastic is BPA-free to ensure safety. High-quality plastic resists cracking in cold temperatures.

Stainless Steel Components

Look for stainless steel parts where water flows or where the machine heats up slightly to release ice. Stainless steel resists rust better than other metals, which is important in a wet environment.

Water Filters

The best ice makers include or accept a water filter. This filter removes bad tastes, odors, and sediment from your tap water. Clean water makes better-tasting ice.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

What makes one ice maker better than another? It often comes down to design and maintenance.

Factors That Improve Quality:
  • Efficient Cooling: Machines that cool down fast make ice quicker and waste less energy.
  • Easy Access: If you can easily reach the ice chute or bin for cleaning, you are more likely to maintain it well.
  • Quiet Operation: A good ice maker works without making loud, disruptive noises.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
  • Slow Freeze Times: If the water takes too long to freeze, the machine struggles to keep up with demand.
  • Water Line Issues: Poor connections can lead to slow filling or leaks, which damage the unit over time.
  • Difficult Cleaning: If the manufacturer designed the machine so that mold can hide in tight spots, the ice quality will drop.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you use ice every day.

Daily Home Use

For families who use ice daily for water, sodas, and smoothies, reliability is key. You need an ice maker that works consistently without frequent breakdowns. Built-in models that connect directly to your home water line offer the best convenience.

Entertaining and Parties

If you frequently host large groups, prioritize high production rates and large storage bins. Countertop or portable ice makers are great for parties because you can move them where the action is, even if your main fridge is slow.

Remember, always read user reviews! Real-world experiences tell you how the machine handles tough situations, like hot summer days or busy weekends.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Rated Refrigerator Ice Makers

Q: How often should I clean my refrigerator ice maker?

A: You should clean the ice maker thoroughly every six months. If you have a self-cleaning feature, run that cycle monthly, but still manually clean the bin regularly.

Q: Can I install an ice maker myself?

A: Some simple countertop models just need to be plugged in. However, built-in models that connect to the home’s water line usually require a plumber or appliance technician for safe, leak-free installation.

Q: Why is my ice maker suddenly making very little ice?

A: This often happens because the water filter is clogged and needs changing, or the freezer temperature is set too high. Check the temperature setting first.

Q: What is the difference between crescent and nugget ice?

A: Crescent ice is the classic half-moon shape, good for chilling drinks fast. Nugget ice is soft, chewable ice made of small, packed flakes.

Q: Does the ice maker use a lot of electricity?

A: Modern ice makers are fairly energy efficient. They only use significant power when they are actively freezing water. They use very little power when just keeping the existing ice cold.

Q: My ice tastes weird. What should I do?

A: Bad taste almost always means the water filter is old. Replace the filter immediately. If the taste persists, thoroughly clean the ice bin and the water reservoir.

Q: Are external (dispensing) ice makers better than internal ones?

A: External dispensers are more convenient because you get ice without opening the door. Internal ice makers save freezer space and sometimes freeze water faster.

Q: What happens if I turn off the ice maker?

A: Turning it off stops the freezing process and saves a small amount of energy. If you are going on vacation, you should turn it off and empty the bin.

Q: How long should a good ice maker last?

A: With proper cleaning and maintenance, a built-in refrigerator ice maker should last between 8 and 15 years. Component failure is common after 10 years.

Q: What is the best temperature setting for ice production?

A: The freezer should be set to 0°F (-18°C) or slightly below. This temperature helps the machine freeze water quickly and keeps the stored ice hard.