While many refrigerators can create crushed ice, or ice in general, sometimes you need something more substantial. If you frequently entertain, need larger amounts of ice, or need something with a quicker turnaround, a crushed ice maker is a good investment. It can also save you money if your refrigerator ice dispenser is not very efficient.
Here are the top models to consider when looking for the best crushed ice maker:
Crushed Ice Maker for Home
When looking for a crushed ice maker for home, consider how much fresh ice you need, where you will place it, and what product is the most practical. Not all kitchens have enough cabinet space for an undercounter model. Some spaces need something more compact.
Even if space is not an issue, some individuals prefer something that is more portable and lightweight for entertaining. A portable ice maker prevents people from having to go back and forth to the kitchen to get a cube from the ice tray. Ice is created in a clean-looking machine and is available for mass consumption. Less time is spent filling an ice bucket, and more time can be spent entertaining.
Things to Consider
If you need an ice maker with a small footprint, you may want to consider a countertop ice maker. It is portable and lightweight if you need to move it to another room. A crushed ice machine that fits under the counter is designed for kitchens that have plenty of cabinet space. They are free-standing and need to be installed to a water line to function.
The undercounter models are stationary. So, if you are looking for mobility, you may want to consider a countertop model. Undercounter ice makers do produce more ice, though.
Design
An ice maker usually has a standard design feature, making it easy to create ice. The recycle function, for example, collects melted ice water and reuses it to create ice. The LED light alerts you to when the reservoir requires refilling.
Some models have other, more specialized features. Some fresh ice makers can also change the ice type. Some have a UV light, ability to go between nugget ice or bullet ice production, or have Bluetooth connect ability. Find one with a removable ice bin as they will be easier to clean. You can also select one with a self-cleaning capability.
Capacity
Before you purchase a model, consider how much ice you use. Standard countertop models produce 25 pounds of ice daily. Undercounter ice makers generally put out 40 pounds on the low end.
Another thing to consider is how quickly the machine produces ice. Some can create ice in ten minutes with some even quicker than that. Select one that best fits your needs.
Warranty
Most ice makers have a one-year warranty. The best brands offer a full level of warranty if you select one that has a prompt and reliable after-sale service.
Countertop Crushed Ice Maker
Countertop ice makers, as stated previously, have a small footprint. They are great for small kitchens, limited spaces, and tiny homes. They are very lightweight, compact, and portable, so they can be taken from room to room without any difficulty.
They tend to hold less ice, and not all models make ice as quickly as undercounter models. They also require you to keep filling them with water to function, whereas the undercounter models fill up directly from a water line.
Undercounter Ice Maker
Undercounter ice makers do require more space and have a larger footprint. They are designed for larger kitchens with ample space. If you do a great deal of entertaining, or use ice regularly, then they are a good investment.
They can make ice quicker and in larger quantities. They tie in directly to a water line, so you aren’t having to constantly fill them, and many of them are hidden from sight.
The only downside is that they are not portable. So, while they make a great deal of ice, people will be going back and forth to obtain it, or you will be doing refills when the quantity runs low.
Best Overall for Countertops: GE Profile Opal
In 20 minutes, this ice maker creates crunchy, chewable ice. It generates 25 pounds of ice daily which equates to one pound per hour. The ice bin can store about three pounds of ice.
Composed of plastic and stainless steel, it is easy to use, lightweight, and portable. The side tank makes it efficient by increasing the production of ice by three times. It eliminates the requirement for a water line. Melted ice water is recycled so that nothing is wasted with this machine.
Smart features indicate when you are low on ice, it is Bluetooth compatible, and a smartphone can be used to monitor the status or to set up a schedule to make ice.
Pros:
- WiFi support
- One year warranty on labor and parts
- UV water treatment
- 25 pounds of ice production per day
Con:
- Bluetooth will only work within 40 feet of the device
- Distilled water is recommended to have it run longer without needing to be descaled
Best Overall for Undercounter: Ice-o-matic Pearl Self-Contained Ice Machine
The Ice-o-matic Pearl makes 85 pounds of ice daily and contains 22 pounds in the ice bin. Air Condensing Cooling Technology is quieter over a standard compressor. Pure Ice antimicrobial feature produces ice that is bacteria- and odor-free.
The control panel is found behind the swing-open stainless steel door and contains adjustable legs.
Pros:
- Ice scoop included
- Two-year warranty
- Quiet
- Auto stops when full
Cons:
- Only designed for indoor use
- Uses a water filter system
Best Runner Up: Soukoo 2 in 1 Ice Maker
The Soukoo 2-in-1 Ice Maker is another countertop model. It offers advanced technology and superior quality.
This machine will produce 46 pounds of ice cubes daily (generally enough for eight people). It takes six to eight minutes to make ice, uses automatic bottled water, has various sized cubes available, and has a 4.5-pound storage basket.
Pros:
- High quality compressor provides continual cooling
- Large storage bin
- Exhaust fan blows out hotter air to maintain a suitable temperature
Cons:
- Ice dumping is loud
- Ice may freeze together
FAQ
Where do you buy a crushed ice maker?
Most small appliance stores sell ice makers. The best place to buy it if you need free and quick shipping is Amazon.
Crushed ice makers are a wonderful tool when entertaining. It will allow you to save money you would have spent on purchasing ice when entertaining, and you will always have plenty of ice on hand. They are efficient and easy to use. They make a great investment for those who are continually using ice, whose refrigerators don’t produce ice, or who hate waiting for ice cubes to be produced.
