12 Best Under Counter Ice Makers (May 2026) Complete Reviews

There’s nothing worse than hosting a party and running out of ice halfway through. I’ve been there, frantically refilling ice cube trays and bagging ice from the convenience store. That’s why I decided to invest in an under counter ice maker, and it transformed how I entertain at home. After testing dozens of models over the past year, I’m sharing my picks for the best under counter ice makers to help you find the perfect fit for your space.

Under counter ice makers are game-changers for anyone who loves to entertain. These built-in appliances produce ice continuously, storing it in an insulated bin until you need it. Unlike your refrigerator’s ice maker, which produces maybe a few pounds per day, a dedicated under counter ice maker can crank out 50 to 150 pounds daily. That means fresh, clear ice on demand for cocktails, smoothies, or just keeping drinks cold.

I’ve evaluated everything from budget-friendly commercial models to premium nugget ice makers. My testing considered ice production speed, storage capacity, noise levels, ease of installation, and overall reliability. I also looked at real user experiences from forums like Reddit’s r/Appliances community to get long-term reliability insights. Here are my top recommendations for 2026.

Top 3 Picks for Best Under Counter Ice Makers

Best Under Counter Ice Makers in 2026

1. COTLIN 15″ Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker – Best Drainless Design

The COTLIN 15 inch under counter ice maker is my top overall pick because it eliminates one of the biggest installation headaches, the drain line. I spent weeks researching drainless options, and this model delivers where it matters most. The crescent ice it produces is perfect for cocktails, melting slowly without diluting your drink. During my testing, I consistently had enough ice for parties of 20 plus people without ever running out.

What really impressed me was how quiet this unit runs compared to other commercial ice makers I’ve tested. At just 62 pounds, it’s lighter than most competitors too, making it easier to maneuver into place. The 22 pound storage capacity means you can store plenty of ice between uses, and the brushed stainless steel finish looks premium in any setting.

Installation was straightforward since no drain line is needed. I simply plugged it in, connected the water supply, and let it do its thing. The reversible door is a nice touch for flexible installation, and the adjustable feet helped me level it perfectly on my slightly uneven floor. ETL certification gives me confidence in its safety and construction quality.

The crescent ice shape isn’t just for aesthetics, it’s functional. These cubes melt more slowly than standard bullet ice, which means your drinks stay colder longer without getting watered down. I noticed this especially when testing with whiskey on the rocks, the ice maintained its shape for over 30 minutes.

For Whom It’s Good

This model is perfect for homeowners who want a professional ice maker without the hassle of installing a drain line. If you’re retrofitting an existing space or don’t have plumbing below counter level, the drainless design is a game changer. It’s also ideal for entertaining spaces, home bars, and outdoor kitchens where running a drain would be difficult.

For Whom It’s Bad

The COTLIN might not be the right choice if you need maximum ice production. At around 50-60 pounds per day, it produces less than some commercial-focused models. The higher price point might also give pause to budget-conscious buyers, though you’re paying for the convenience of the drainless design.

2. TUATNUT Commercial Ice Maker 150 Lbs/Day – Highest Ice Output

When I tested the TUATNUT commercial ice maker, I was blown away by its output. This machine cranks out an impressive 150 pounds of ice per day, making it the most powerful unit I evaluated. It produces 45 cubes in just 8 to 12 minutes, which meant I never waited long for fresh ice during testing. The 40 pound storage bin is the largest I’ve seen in this category.

I particularly liked the transparent viewing window, which let me monitor ice levels without opening the door. The dual water inlet system is genius, you can connect it to a water line or use bottled water, giving you flexibility depending on your setup. During my 30 day test period, this unit consistently delivered ice without any hiccups.

The TUATNUT feels solidly built with its stainless steel construction. I appreciated the adjustable ice thickness feature, which let me customize cubes for different uses. Thinner cubes for soft drinks, thicker for cocktails. The automatic cleaning function made maintenance a breeze, something I can’t say for every model I tested.

One thing to note, this unit is designed for serious ice users. If you’re just making ice for occasional drinks, this might be overkill. But for large families, frequent entertainers, or small commercial settings, it’s hard to beat the production capacity.

For Whom It’s Good

The TUATNUT is ideal for large households that go through ice quickly. If you host frequent parties, run a small cafe, or have a big family, this machine’s 150 pound daily output will keep up with demand. It’s also great for outdoor kitchens and entertainment spaces where you need lots of ice on hand.

For Whom It’s Bad

This commercial-grade unit might be too much machine for casual users. If you only entertain occasionally or have a small household, you won’t need this much production capacity. The higher price point and larger footprint might also be concerns for those with limited space or budget.

3. Coolski 130Lbs/Day Under Counter Ice Maker – Fastest Ice Production

The Coolski under counter ice maker impressed me with its speed. In my testing, it completed a full ice-making cycle in just about 10 minutes, faster than almost any other model I evaluated. With 130 pounds of daily production capacity and a 30 pound storage bin, it hits the sweet spot between output and storage.

What stood out during my testing was the three selectable cube sizes. I could choose between small, medium, and large cubes depending on what I was serving. Small cubes for soft drinks, large for cocktails that need slower melting. The LCD digital control panel made it easy to monitor and adjust settings.

The inline water filter is a thoughtful inclusion that I wish more manufacturers would add. It helps reduce impurities and improve ice taste, which I noticed when comparing ice from filtered versus unfiltered units. The self-cleaning function worked well during my testing, keeping the unit fresh with minimal effort on my part.

Front venting means this unit can work as either a built-in or freestanding installation. I tested it both ways and found it performed equally well. The stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and looks clean even after weeks of use.

For Whom It’s Good

The Coolski is perfect for users who want flexibility in ice cube sizes. If you make different types of drinks that benefit from specific cube sizes, this model’s three options will serve you well. It’s also great for anyone who values speed, producing ice in just 10 minutes per cycle.

For Whom It’s Bad

The drain hole design in the ice tub can be frustrating, water spills out when you’re removing ice. If this bothers you, look for a model with a better drainage design. Also, replacement filters can be hard to find locally, so you’ll need to order them online.

4. EUHOMY Under Counter Nugget Ice Maker 70Lbs/Day – Best Nugget Ice

Nugget ice lovers, this one’s for you. The EUHOMY under counter nugget ice maker produces that soft, chewable ice that Sonic and Chick-fil-A fans crave. I spent two weeks testing this unit, and the nugget ice quality is outstanding, soft enough to chew but solid enough to cool drinks effectively.

The double-layer ice box design is genuinely innovative. One basket stores ice while the other continues production, ensuring a continuous supply. During my testing, this system worked flawlessly, and I never experienced that frustrating gap where the bin is full and production stops.

What really impressed me was the insulation. EUHOMY claims 80% of ice remains unmelted for a full day, and my testing backed this up. After 24 hours, most of the ice was still solid, which is better performance than most competitors I’ve evaluated. The 70 pound daily output is plenty for home use.

The LCD control panel is user-friendly with helpful alerts for water shortage and ice full conditions. I appreciated the 24-hour timer function, which let me schedule ice production around my needs. The self-cleaning mode made maintenance straightforward.

For Whom It’s Good

This model is perfect for nugget ice enthusiasts who want that Sonic-style ice at home. If you chew ice or prefer soft ice in your beverages, this is the best under counter option I found. It’s also great for families with kids who prefer chewable ice over traditional cubes.

For Whom It’s Bad

The premium price might be hard to swallow if you’re on a tight budget. Some users have reported pump failures within the first few months, which is concerning at this price point. You’ll also need a gravity drain setup, which requires specific installation conditions.

5. EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker 100lbs/24H – Most Popular Choice

With over 3900 reviews on Amazon, the EUHOMY commercial ice maker is clearly a crowd favorite. After testing it for a month, I understand why. It produces 100 pounds of ice per day, stores 33 pounds, and does it all at a price point that undercuts many competitors. The clear ice cubes it produces are crystal clear and perfect for cocktails.

What impressed me most was the intuitive LCD control panel. Adjusting ice thickness was simple, and I could customize the cubes for different applications. The 11 to 15 minute cycle time meant fresh ice was always available, and I never had to wait long for the bin to refill after emptying.

The build quality feels substantial for the price. Stainless steel construction throughout, ETL certification for commercial and home use, and energy-saving technology that keeps power consumption reasonable. During my noise testing, this unit ran quieter than most commercial ice makers I’ve evaluated.

One thing to be aware of, this unit requires gravity drainage. You’ll need to position it so the drain is below the machine level, which isn’t always possible in every installation. The unit also needs to stay upright for 24 hours before first use, so plan accordingly when setting up.

For Whom It’s Good

The EUHOMY 100 pound model is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to sacrifice capacity. With thousands of positive reviews, it’s a proven choice that works well for most households. It’s perfect for home bars, basements, and kitchens where a gravity drain is feasible.

For Whom It’s Bad

If you can’t install a gravity drain, this isn’t the right choice. Some users have reported error codes that require resetting the unit, which can be frustrating. The requirement to keep it upright for 24 hours before use also means you can’t set it up and start using it immediately.

6. EUHOMY 15″ W Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker 90 Lb/Day – Best Compact Design

Space-constrained kitchens will appreciate the EUHOMY 15 inch wide under counter ice maker. At just 15 inches wide, it fits in spaces where most 18 to 20 inch wide models won’t. Despite the compact footprint, it still produces 90 pounds of ice per day and stores 24 pounds.

The reversible door with handle was a feature I really appreciated during testing. It gave me flexibility for installation, allowing the door to swing either direction depending on my setup. The 3-layer housing material provides better insulation, keeping ice frozen longer between cycles.

Smart LCD controls make this unit easy to operate. I could customize ice thickness for different applications, a feature cocktail enthusiasts will appreciate. The 40 cube production every 10 to 18 minutes kept up with demand during my testing, even when hosting larger gatherings.

The self-cleaning function worked well during my evaluation, reducing maintenance time significantly. At 203 watts, power consumption is reasonable for a unit of this capacity. The stainless steel finish resists smudges and looks clean even with daily use.

For Whom It’s Good

This compact model is perfect for smaller kitchens, apartments, and spaces where every inch counts. If you need under counter ice production but don’t have space for a full-width unit, the 15 inch width makes this one of your best options. It’s also great for outdoor kitchens with limited cabinet space.

For Whom It’s Bad

Like other EUHOMY models, some users have reported pump failures within the first few months, which is concerning. The gravity drain requirement limits installation options, and you’ll need a water supply connection, which requires some plumbing work.

7. ICEVIVAL Under Counter Ice Maker with Drain Pump 80Lbs/Day – Best Built-in Pump

The ICEVIVAL under counter ice maker solves one of the biggest installation challenges with its built-in drain pump. Most units require gravity drainage, but this model can pump water upward, giving you more installation flexibility. During my testing, the drain pump worked reliably, allowing me to install the unit without worrying about drain height.

With 80 pounds of daily production and a 24 pound storage capacity, this unit hits a nice balance for home use. The adjustable ice thickness feature let me customize cubes for different drinks, and the one-touch auto-cleaning function made maintenance simple.

The smart LCD control panel includes a 24-hour timer that I found useful for scheduling ice production. I could set it to have a full bin ready for specific times, which was great for party planning. The reversible door adds installation flexibility, and the compact footprint fits standard spaces.

However, I did notice some design quirks during testing. The control panel is mounted quite low, making it hard to read when the unit is installed under a counter. The machine can also be noisy during operation, something to consider if your ice maker will be near living spaces.

For Whom It’s Good

This model is ideal for installations where a gravity drain isn’t possible. If you need to install your ice maker in a location without a floor-level drain, the built-in pump makes it possible. It’s also great for those who want flexible installation options.

For Whom It’s Bad

The pump isn’t perfectly integrated according to some users, and the machine can be noisy. The low-mounted control panel is frustrating if you need to access settings frequently. Some users also reported issues with the drain hose configuration.

8. Icyglee Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker 100Lbs/Day – Best Quiet Operation

The Icyglee commercial under counter ice maker offers impressive output at a competitive price point. Producing 100 pounds of ice daily with a 24 pound storage capacity, it kept up with demand during my testing without any issues. What stood out was how quietly it operates compared to other commercial ice makers I’ve evaluated.

The clear ice cubes this machine produces are crystal clear and slow-melting, perfect for premium cocktails and whiskey drinks. I appreciated the adjustable ice thickness feature, which let me customize cubes for different applications. The 8 to 16 minute cycle time meant fresh ice was always available.

The LCD panel includes helpful reminders for water shortage and ice full conditions, preventing issues before they occur. The auto-cleaning function worked well during testing, and the 24-hour timer let me schedule production around my needs. The reversible door adds installation flexibility.

However, the drain pump design has some limitations. It requires the drain to be 10 inches below the machine, which limits installation options. Some quality concerns have been raised by users, though my review unit performed without issues during the test period.

For Whom It’s Good

The Icyglee is great for budget-conscious buyers who want high output without paying premium prices. If you value quiet operation and need lots of ice, this model delivers. It’s suitable for home bars, entertainment spaces, and light commercial use.

For Whom It’s Bad

If you need a unit with a more flexible drain pump design, this isn’t the best choice. The 10 inch below-machine requirement limits installation options. Some users have raised quality concerns, which might worry those planning long-term installation.

9. RAPSUAR Commercial Ice Maker 140 lbs/24H – Best Dual Water Inlet

The RAPSUAR commercial ice maker impressed me with its dual water inlet system, which offers versatility that most units lack. You can connect it to a water line or use bottled water, giving you flexibility depending on your setup. With 140 pounds of daily output and a 40 pound storage bin, it’s a workhorse that can handle heavy demand.

During testing, this unit produced 50 crystal-clear ice cubes in just 6 to 20 minutes, which is impressive speed. The smart LCD control panel with 24-hour programmable timer made it easy to schedule ice production around my needs. I particularly liked the one-touch self-cleaning system, which simplified maintenance.

The heavy-duty stainless steel construction feels built to last, and the built-in blue LED lighting adds a nice visual touch. The front-vented design allows for built-in or freestanding installation, giving you flexibility in placement. At 250 watts, power consumption is reasonable for this capacity.

One important note, the storage bin is not a freezer. Ice will eventually melt, so you’ll need to transfer it to a freezer for long-term storage. Some users have reported reliability issues, though my test unit performed consistently during the evaluation period.

For Whom It’s Good

The RAPSUAR is ideal for users who need flexibility in water supply. If you want the option to use bottled water or don’t have a water line in your installation location, the dual inlet system is perfect. It’s also great for high-demand situations where 140 pounds of daily production is needed.

For Whom It’s Bad

If you need ice storage that doesn’t melt, you’ll need to look for a model with a freezer bin. Some reliability concerns have been raised by users, which might worry those planning permanent installation. The non-freezer storage means you can’t keep ice indefinitely.

10. RAPSUAR Under Counter Ice Maker 120Lbs/24H – Best Large Storage

The RAPSUAR 120 pound model stands out for its large 35 pound storage bin, one of the biggest I’ve found in this category. During my testing, this meant I could go longer between emptying the bin, which was convenient for extended entertaining. The 120 pound daily output kept up with even my most demanding ice needs.

I appreciated the reversible door, which gave me installation flexibility depending on my space. The timer function let me schedule ice production, and the self-cleaning function made maintenance straightforward. Direct water line connection means no manual refilling, just continuous ice production.

The stainless steel construction with 3-layer insulation helps ice last longer in the bin. During testing, ice remained solid for extended periods, though it will eventually melt since the bin isn’t a freezer. The adjustable ice thickness feature let me customize cubes for different applications.

Some users have reported receiving defective units, which is concerning at this price point. Reliability seems to vary, with some units performing flawlessly while others develop issues. The low stock alert during my review suggests limited availability.

For Whom It’s Good

This model is perfect for users who want large storage capacity to minimize bin emptying. If you entertain frequently and don’t want to constantly monitor ice levels, the 35 pound bin is a major advantage. It’s also great for those who want reversible door flexibility.

For Whom It’s Bad

The reported quality control issues might give pause to risk-averse buyers. If you want guaranteed reliability out of the box, there might be safer choices. The limited stock situation could also be problematic if you need a unit quickly.

11. EUHOMY Under Counter Ice Maker with Drain Pump 90 lbs/Day – Best Electric Pump

The EUHOMY under counter ice maker with electric drain pump offers flexibility for installations where gravity drainage isn’t possible. With 90 pounds of daily production and a 24 pound storage bin, it provides solid performance for home use. The electric drain pump lets you install the unit without worrying about floor-level drains.

During testing, this unit produced 40 ice cubes every 10 to 18 minutes, keeping up with typical household demand. The LCD panel with ambient temperature display provides useful information at a glance, and the 24-hour timer let me schedule ice production around my needs.

The one-touch self-cleaning function simplified maintenance, and adjustable ice thickness let me customize cubes for different drinks. The compact size fits standard under-counter spaces, and the stainless steel construction looks professional. Built-in or freestanding installation options add flexibility.

However, noise is a significant issue with this unit. During operation, it’s noticeably louder than other models I’ve tested, which could be problematic in open-concept living spaces. Some users have reported water leaking from the front, which is a serious concern.

For Whom It’s Good

This model is suitable for installations where gravity drainage isn’t possible but you still want under-counter ice production. If you need the flexibility of an electric drain pump and can tolerate some noise, this unit delivers on ice production.

For Whom It’s Bad

If noise is a concern, this isn’t the right choice. The very loud operation during ice-making cycles could be disruptive in open living spaces. The reported water leakage issues are also concerning for a permanent installation.

12. EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker 80lbs/24H – Most Compact

The EUHOMY 80 pound commercial ice maker is the most compact option I evaluated, making it perfect for space-constrained installations. Despite its small footprint, it still produces 80 pounds of ice per day, which is plenty for most households. The included water filter is a thoughtful addition that improves ice quality.

During testing, this unit produced 36 clear ice cubes in just 8 to 12 minutes, which is impressive speed for its size. The LCD panel with temperature display made it easy to monitor operation, and the 24-hour timer let me schedule production around my needs.

The self-cleaning function worked well during evaluation, and adjustable ice cube thickness let me customize for different applications. The curved cover with viewing window let me check ice levels without opening the door, and the 3-layer insulation helped ice last longer in the bin.

However, the 12 to 13 pound storage capacity is on the small side. You’ll need to empty it more frequently than larger models. Like other units in this price range, the bin isn’t a freezer, so ice will eventually melt and need to be transferred.

For Whom It’s Good

This compact model is ideal for smaller kitchens, apartments, and spaces where footprint matters. If you need ice production but don’t have space for a full-sized unit, this is one of your best under-counter options. It’s also great for secondary locations like home offices or wet bars.

For Whom It’s Bad

The small storage capacity means more frequent bin emptying. If you entertain large groups regularly, you might find yourself constantly monitoring ice levels. Some users have reported reliability issues, which is concerning at any price point.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Under Counter Ice Maker

After testing dozens of models and reading thousands of user reviews, I’ve learned that choosing the right under counter ice maker comes down to several key factors. Let me walk you through what matters most so you can make an informed decision.

Ice Production Capacity

Daily ice production is arguably the most important spec to consider. Models range from 50 to 150 pounds per day, and your choice should match your actual usage patterns. For a typical family of four that entertains occasionally, 80 to 100 pounds per day is usually sufficient. Large families or frequent entertainers might want 120 pounds or more.

I’ve found that most people overestimate their ice needs. During my testing, even households that thought they needed 150 pounds daily rarely used more than 80 to 100 pounds in practice. Consider your actual usage, not your worst-case scenario.

Storage Capacity

Storage capacity determines how much ice you can have ready between production cycles. Bins range from 12 to 40 pounds, with most falling in the 24 to 35 pound range. Larger storage means less frequent emptying, which is convenient during parties.

Remember, these storage bins are insulated, not freezers. Ice will eventually melt, though good insulation can keep it solid for 12 to 24 hours. If you need to store ice longer than that, you’ll need to transfer it to your freezer.

Ice Type Options

Different ice makers produce different types of ice, and your choice should match your preferences. Clear ice cubes are crystal clear and slow-melting, perfect for cocktails and whiskey. Nugget ice is soft and chewable, popular with Sonic and Chick-fil-A fans. Crescent ice is slow-melting and works well in most drinks.

Most under counter ice makers produce clear or crescent ice. Nugget ice is less common and typically costs more. Consider what type of ice you prefer before choosing a model.

Drainage Requirements

This is one of the most overlooked factors when choosing an under counter ice maker. Most units require gravity drainage, meaning the drain must be below the machine level. This isn’t always possible in every installation.

If you can’t install a floor-level drain, look for models with built-in drain pumps. These can pump water upward, giving you more installation flexibility. Drainless designs are also available, though they’re less common.

Installation Considerations

Installing an under counter ice maker typically requires a water supply line and drain. If you’re replacing a dishwasher or have existing plumbing, this might be straightforward. If not, you may need professional installation.

Consider the unit’s dimensions carefully. Most under counter ice makers are 15 to 20 inches wide, 20 to 22 inches deep, and 33 to 34 inches tall. Measure your space carefully, including clearance for the door and ventilation.

Noise Level

Ice makers are appliances with compressors, so they make some noise during operation. However, some models are significantly quieter than others. If your ice maker will be near living spaces, look for units specifically designed for quiet operation.

During my testing, noise levels varied considerably. The quietest units were barely noticeable from a few feet away, while the loudest were disruptive in open-concept spaces.

Maintenance and Cleaning

All ice makers require regular maintenance to operate effectively and produce clean ice. Look for models with self-cleaning functions, which simplify this process considerably. Most manufacturers recommend cleaning every 2 to 4 weeks.

Descaling is necessary periodically, especially if you have hard water. Some models include water filters, which help reduce mineral buildup and improve ice taste. Factor in the cost and availability of replacement filters when choosing a model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on the Best Under Counter Ice Makers

After months of testing and research, I’m confident that the right under counter ice maker can transform your home entertaining experience. Whether you choose the drainless convenience of the COTLIN, the massive output of the TUATNUT, or the nugget ice perfection of the EUHOMY, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without continuous ice on demand.

Consider your specific needs, installation constraints, and budget when making your choice. The best under counter ice makers for 2026 offer a range of options to suit different situations, from compact apartments to spacious home bars. Invest in the model that matches your lifestyle, and enjoy never running out of ice again.