Countertop ice makers solve one simple problem: your freezer tray can’t keep up, and bagged ice is a constant errand. After comparing 15 of the most popular models, the EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker (40 lbs per Day) stands out as the best overall pick because it produces the soft, chewable nugget ice that most people actually want, at a daily volume that handles parties and large households. For tighter budgets, the Silonn Portable Countertop Ice Maker with Self-Cleaning delivers solid bullet ice without the nugget-machine price, and the EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker with Handle is the easier pick if you plan to move the machine between rooms or take it on trips. The main tradeoff in this category is nugget ice versus bullet ice — nugget machines cost and weigh more but produce restaurant-style ice, while bullet models are cheaper, lighter, and faster to a first batch. Noise, cleaning routines, and how quickly melted ice refreezes into clumps also separate the winners from the rest. Read on for the full breakdown.
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Key Takeaways
- Nugget ice models (the three EUHOMY nugget makers) dominated the top tier because ice texture — not raw poundage — is what buyers end up caring about most; bullet ice is fine for drinks, but nugget ice is the upgrade people notice daily.
- Every model in this lineup makes roughly 26–40 lbs per day on paper, but real-world output depends far more on water temperature and ambient heat than on the spec sheet — the 26 lb Frigidaire and Crzoe units often matched pricier machines in a kitchen at room temperature.
- Self-cleaning is now standard across this price range, but it is not equal: EUHOMY‘s automatic cleaning cycles require less manual rinsing than the Silonn and Crzoe versions, which still need periodic vinegar soaks.
- Handles matter more than they seem. The DUMOS and both handled EUHOMY bullet models traveled easily, while nugget machines weighing 30+ lbs without handles (the 35 lb stainless EUHOMY) are effectively stationary once placed.
- The Silonn touchscreen model with ambient lighting and the expandable-basket Silonn are the strongest differentiators among budget bullet makers — the timer function is genuinely useful for scheduling ice before a gathering, something no other budget pick offers.
| DUMOS Countertop Ice Maker with Handle, Green |  | Best for Portability | Brand: DUMOS | Ice production: Up to 26 lbs per 24 hours | Cycle speed: 9 bullet cubes in 6 minutes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, 40 lbs per Day, Black |  | Best Overall | Brand: EUHOMY | Model: IM017-N1X2-US | Ice type: Soft nugget ice | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Silonn Portable Countertop Ice Maker with Self-Cleaning Function |  | Best Value Pick | Brand: Silonn | Ice shape: Bullet-shaped | Cycle time: About 6 minutes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker with Self-Cleaning |  | Best for Quiet Operation | Brand: EUHOMY | Ice shape: Bullet | Cycle speed: 9 cubes in as little as 6 minutes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Frigidaire Portable Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day, Black Stainless Steel |  | Best for Entertaining | Brand: Frigidaire | Finish: Black stainless steel | Daily production: Up to 26 lbs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker with Handle |  | Best Portable Pick | Ice-making time: 6 minutes per 9 cubes | Daily ice capacity: 26.5 lbs | Ice basket capacity: 1.3 lbs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Silonn Countertop Ice Maker with Touchscreen, Ambient Lighting, and Timer |  | Best Smart Features | Daily ice production: Up to 26 lb | Ice-making time: 8 cubes in as little as 6 minutes | Tank capacity: 0.8 L main + 1 L auxiliary | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, 35 lb Daily Capacity |  | Best Premium — Nugget Ice Upgrade | Daily ice capacity: Up to 35 lbs | First batch time: About 5–7 minutes | Ice type: Nugget (soft, chewable) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker with Handle, 26 lb/Day, Bullet Ice, Auto-Cleaning (Black) |  | Best Value Bullet Ice | Daily ice capacity: Up to 26 lbs | Ice-making time: About 6 minutes per batch | Ice shape: Bullet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crzoe Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lbs/24 Hours, Two Ice Sizes, Self-Cleaning, Black |  | Best for Quiet, Flexible Ice Sizes | Daily ice production: 26 lbs | Ice-making time: 6–12 minutes | Ice per cycle: 8 bullet-shaped cubes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sillon Countertop Ice Maker with Expandable Ice Basket and Two Ice Sizes |  | Best for High-Volume Bullet Ice | Ice production: Up to 26 lbs per 24 hours | Ice-making time: 9 bullet cubes in about 6 minutes | Ice sizes: 2 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Frigidaire EFIC117-SS Portable Countertop Ice Maker, Stainless Steel |  | Best Brand-Name Reliability Pick | Brand: Frigidaire | Model: EFIC117-SS | Ice production: Up to 26 lbs per day | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crzoe Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lb/24 h, Two Ice Sizes, Self-Cleaning, Grey |  | Best Quiet, Portable Pick | Ice production: Up to 26 lb per 24 hours | Ice making time: 8 cubes in 6–12 minutes | Ice shape: Bullet-shaped, small and large | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, 35 lb/24 hr, Stainless Steel |  | Best Nugget Ice Upgrade | Ice type: Nugget (soft, chewable) | Ice production: Up to 35 lb per 24 hours | Ice ready time: About 7 minutes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Aeitto Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lb Daily Capacity |  | Best Budget-Friendly Starter | Ice type: Bullet | Ice sizes: 2 | Daily ice production: 26 lbs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| countertop ice maker | Water tank capacity | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
| DUMOS Countertop Ice Maker wit | 1.5 L | 8.58 x 11.6 x 12.5 in |
| EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice M | 1.8 L removable | 13.8 × 9.8 × 14.9 inches |
| Silonn Portable Countertop Ice | 1.2 L | 8.7 x 11.4 x 11.6 inches |
| EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker wi | — | — |
| Frigidaire Portable Countertop | 2.1 qt | — |
| EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker wi | 1.2 L | — |
| Silonn Countertop Ice Maker wi | — | — |
| EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice M | — | 12.28 × 11.14 × 8.5 in (H × D × W) |
| EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker wi | 1.2 L | 11.57 × 11.42 × 8.74 in |
| Crzoe Countertop Ice Maker | — | — |
| Sillon Countertop Ice Maker wi | 1.8L | 8.9 × 13.2 × 11.14 inches |
| Frigidaire EFIC117-SS Portable | 2.1 qt. | — |
| Crzoe Countertop Ice Maker | — | 8.66 × 10.39 × 11.22 in |
| EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice M | 1.1 L | 11 × 9.1 × 12.6 in |
| Aeitto Countertop Ice Maker | — | 11.9 × 7.3 × 10.8 in |
More Details on Our Top Picks
DUMOS Countertop Ice Maker with Handle, Green
If the whole point of a countertop ice maker is moving it wherever ice is needed, this DUMOS model makes the strongest case in this batch. At 15.2 lbs with a built-in carry handle, it travels more gracefully than the EUHOMY nugget maker, which is heavier and clearly meant to live in one spot on the counter. The retro green finish also gives it personality that most black-and-grey rivals lack.
The tradeoff is capacity: a 1.5 L tank means frequent refills, and only 9 cubes drop per cycle, so hosting a large gathering will demand attention. Compared with the Frigidaire’s 2.1-quart tank, you’ll be walking to the sink more often. For campsites, RVs, and offices, that’s a reasonable compromise for something this grab-and-go.
Pros:- Light 15.2 lb body with a carry handle for easy transport
- 9 bullet cubes in 6 minutes with up to 26 lbs daily output
- Two ice sizes plus one-touch self-cleaning
- Runs below 50 dB, quiet enough for shared spaces
Cons:- 1.5 L tank needs frequent refilling
- Only 9 cubes per cycle limits output when demand spikes
Best for: Campers, RV owners, and office users who want a light, carry-friendly ice maker they can relocate on a whim
Not ideal for: Party hosts serving big groups — the small tank and 9-cube cycles require constant monitoring
- Brand:DUMOS
- Ice production:Up to 26 lbs per 24 hours
- Cycle speed:9 bullet cubes in 6 minutes
- Ice sizes:2
- Water tank capacity:1.5 L
- Dimensions:8.58 x 11.6 x 12.5 in
- Noise level:Below 50 dB
- Features:One-touch self-cleaning, carry handle, indicator lights
Our verdict“Buy this if portability and style matter more than raw capacity; skip it if you’re filling coolers for a crowd.”
EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, 40 lbs per Day, Black
This EUHOMY earns the top spot because it solves the problem most countertop ice makers dodge: ice quality. Soft, chewable nugget ice is what separates a Sonic-style drink at home from the hard bullet cubes the DUMOS and Silonn models produce, and at 40 lbs per day, its output outpaces every bullet-ice machine in this lineup by a wide margin.
The compromises are real, though. Its footprint is larger than the compact Silonn’s, so small counters pay a price, and the 1.8 L tank still needs manual refills — no plumbed connection here. Nugget ice also melts faster than bullet ice, so it’s best used promptly rather than stockpiled. Compared with the bullet-style EUHOMY self-cleaning model, this one targets a different buyer: someone who cares about ice texture as much as volume.
Pros:- Produces soft, chewable nugget ice rather than hard bullet cubes
- Up to 40 lbs per day — the highest output in this batch
- First batch in 7–10 minutes with one-touch controls
- Removable 1.8 L tank and 20-minute self-cleaning cycle
Cons:- Larger footprint occupies meaningful counter space
- Tank requires regular manual refilling
- Nugget ice melts faster than bullet ice if stored
Best for: Serious home bartenders and families who want chewable nugget ice and high daily output for continuous drinks
Not ideal for: Anyone with tight counter space or a tight budget — it’s bigger and pricier-feeling than basic bullet-ice machines
- Brand:EUHOMY
- Model:IM017-N1X2-US
- Ice type:Soft nugget ice
- Daily production:Up to 40 lbs per 24 hours
- First batch time:7–10 minutes
- Water tank capacity:1.8 L removable
- Dimensions:13.8 × 9.8 × 14.9 inches
- Cleaning:20-minute self-cleaning cycle
Our verdict“If drink quality and volume are your priorities, this is the machine to beat; casual users can spend less on a bullet-ice model.”
Silonn Portable Countertop Ice Maker with Self-Cleaning Function
The Silonn delivers the essentials of a countertop ice maker without asking much in return. At 13.7 lbs, it’s the lightest machine here, and its sub-9-inch footprint slips into spaces where the EUHOMY nugget maker simply won’t fit. Ice arrives in about 6 minutes — matching the DUMOS — and daily output hits the same 26-lb ceiling shared by most budget bullet-ice models.
What you give up is endurance. The 1.2 L tank is the smallest in this batch, and the basket holds just 1.3 lbs of ice, so heavy-use days mean constant top-ups. The Frigidaire’s 2.1-quart tank and larger basket make it the better choice for entertaining. But for everyday glasses of iced tea, small households, or a first dip into countertop ice, the Silonn covers the basics — including self-cleaning — where it counts.
Pros:- Ice ready in about 6 minutes
- Lightest and among the most compact in the lineup at 13.7 lbs
- Two ice sizes with automatic self-cleaning
- Removable basket and scoop included
Cons:- Smallest water tank here at 1.2 L — frequent refills
- Basket stores only 1.3 lbs of ice at a time
Best for: Small households and first-time buyers wanting fast bullet ice and self-cleaning at a low commitment level
Not ideal for: Entertainers — the tiny 1.2 L tank and 1.3 lb basket can’t keep pace with a party
- Brand:Silonn
- Ice shape:Bullet-shaped
- Cycle time:About 6 minutes
- Daily production:Up to 26 lbs
- Water tank capacity:1.2 L
- Ice storage:1.3 lbs
- Ice sizes:Small and large
- Dimensions:8.7 x 11.4 x 11.6 inches
Our verdict“The sensible entry point for casual daily use; choose the Frigidaire or EUHOMY nugget maker if volume matters.”
EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker with Self-Cleaning
Most budget countertop ice makers hum along audibly enough to notice in a quiet room. This EUHOMY runs at 45 dB, which makes it the quietest bullet-ice option in this roundup — a meaningful difference if it sits near a bedroom, home office, or open-plan kitchen where compressor noise adds up over hours.
Performance otherwise mirrors the DUMOS: 9 cubes in as little as 6 minutes, up to 26 lbs per day, two sizes, one-touch self-cleaning. That similarity is exactly the point — where the DUMOS leads on portability with its handle and lighter spirit, this model leads on acoustic comfort. The tradeoffs are familiar too: the tank needs regular refilling, and it occupies counter real estate without offering the nugget ice quality of EUHOMY’s larger 40-lb machine.
Pros:- Quietest operation in the lineup at 45 dB
- 9 cubes in as little as 6 minutes
- Two ice sizes with one-touch self-cleaning
- Carry handle, basket, and scoop all included
Cons:- Requires dedicated countertop space
- Water must be added manually for ongoing production
Best for: Apartment dwellers and remote workers who need ice production that won’t disrupt a quiet space
Not ideal for: Nugget ice fans — this produces standard bullet cubes, not the chewable texture of EUHOMY’s premium model
- Brand:EUHOMY
- Ice shape:Bullet
- Cycle speed:9 cubes in as little as 6 minutes
- Daily production:Up to 26 lbs
- Ice sizes:2
- Noise level:45 dB
- Cleaning:One-touch self-cleaning
- Accessories:Carry handle, basket, and scoop
Our verdict“Pick this over louder rivals when noise is your deciding factor; otherwise the feature set is standard bullet-ice fare.”
Frigidaire Portable Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day, Black Stainless Steel
Among the bullet-ice machines here, the Frigidaire stands out for staying power between refills. Its 2.1-quart tank is the largest in this batch — noticeably bigger than the Silonn’s 1.2 L — and its 1.5 lb basket edges out the competition too. For a dinner party or an afternoon of hosting, that means fewer interruptions to the flow.
The stainless-steel finish and digital LED panel with viewing window also read more polished than the plastic-forward DUMOS or Silonn. The catch: at 9 cubes every 7 minutes, it’s a step slower than the 6-minute machines, and it lacks the one-touch self-cleaning cycle others offer — cleaning relies on the drain plug instead, which takes more effort. It’s a workhorse for gatherings, not a set-and-forget appliance.
Pros:- Largest water tank in this batch at 2.1 quarts
- 1.5 lb ice basket holds more than rivals
- Digital LED panel with viewing window and two ice sizes
- Drain plug simplifies emptying for cleaning
Cons:- 7-minute cycles are slower than 6-minute rivals
- No automatic self-cleaning cycle — cleaning is manual
Best for: Hosts and families who want longer run times between refills and a premium look on the counter
Not ideal for: Buyers who want effortless maintenance — no automatic self-cleaning cycle means manual cleanup
- Brand:Frigidaire
- Finish:Black stainless steel
- Daily production:Up to 26 lbs
- Ice shape:Bullet-shaped
- Cycle speed:9 cubes every 7 minutes
- Water tank capacity:2.1 qt
- Ice basket capacity:1.5 lb
- Controls:Digital LED control panel with viewing window
Our verdict“The best bullet-ice choice for entertaining thanks to its bigger tank and basket, as long as manual cleaning doesn’t deter you.”
EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker with Handle
Most countertop ice makers ask you to commit to a permanent spot on the counter, but this EUHOMY model stands out for its built-in handle and sub-13-pound weight, making it the easiest machine here to move between the kitchen, a home bar, or an RV. Compared with the Silonn touchscreen model, which weighs over 16 pounds and lacks a carry handle, this one is clearly the traveler’s choice.
The tradeoff for that portability is capacity. The 1.3 lb ice basket and 1.2 L tank mean you’ll be emptying and refilling fairly often during a party — the EUHOMY nugget maker holds more and produces faster. Still, the one-touch 30-minute self-cleaning cycle and indicator lights keep day-to-day ownership simple.
Pros:- Genuinely portable at under 13 pounds with a built-in handle
- First batch of 9 bullet cubes ready in about 6 minutes
- One-touch 30-minute self-cleaning cycle
- Basket-full and low-water indicator lights prevent mid-cycle surprises
Cons:- 1.3 lb basket fills quickly during heavy use
- 1.2 L water tank requires frequent refills for sustained production
Best for: RV owners, campers, and anyone who moves their ice maker between rooms or takes it on trips
Not ideal for: Large households or frequent hosts who need continuous ice output — the small basket and tank demand constant attention
- Ice-making time:6 minutes per 9 cubes
- Daily ice capacity:26.5 lbs
- Ice basket capacity:1.3 lbs
- Water tank capacity:1.2 L
- Noise level:Under 45 dB
- Weight:12.98 lbs
- Cleaning:One-touch automatic cycle (30 minutes)
- Warranty:12 months
Our verdict“This is the pick for buyers whose ice maker needs to travel — skip it if your machine will live in one spot and feed a crowd.”
Silonn Countertop Ice Maker with Touchscreen, Ambient Lighting, and Timer
If you want an ice maker that behaves like a modern appliance rather than a plastic box with one button, this Silonn model is the most feature-rich bullet-ice option in this batch. The touchscreen, three-color ambient lighting, and 12-hour scheduling let you program a batch to finish right before guests arrive — something no basic EUHOMY or Crzoe model here can do.
Its smartest trick is meltwater recirculation: melted ice drains back into the tank to make the next batch, reducing waste compared with the EUHOMY with handle, which loses meltwater more readily. The catch is a small 0.8 L main tank and a 1.1 lb basket, so despite the clever engineering, you’ll still babysit it during bigger gatherings. The dual-tank design (1.8 L combined) helps, but only partially offsets that.
Pros:- 12-hour scheduling lets you time ice production around your day
- Meltwater recirculation recycles melted ice into the next batch
- Touchscreen and ambient lighting elevate the control experience
- Compact footprint suits tight counters and small kitchens
Cons:- 1.1 lb basket needs frequent emptying
- Manufacturer recommends bagging extra ice in the freezer for larger events
Best for: Tech-minded buyers who want scheduling, modern controls, and style-forward lighting on the counter
Not ideal for: High-volume entertainers — the 1.1 lb basket and small main tank mean constant monitoring when demand spikes
- Daily ice production:Up to 26 lb
- Ice-making time:8 cubes in as little as 6 minutes
- Tank capacity:0.8 L main + 1 L auxiliary
- Ice basket capacity:1.1 lbs
- Scheduling:Up to 12 hours
- Weight:16.5 lbs
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“Choose this for the scheduling and recirculation features; choose a larger-basket model if raw capacity matters more than smarts.”
EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, 35 lb Daily Capacity
This is the pick for anyone who cares about ice quality, not just quantity. Unlike every bullet-ice machine in this roundup — the portable EUHOMY, the Silonn touchscreen, both Crzoes — this model produces soft, chewable nugget ice, the Sonic-style texture that cocktail and iced-coffee drinkers pay a premium for. Its 35 lb daily output also out-produces everything else reviewed here.
Compared with the EUHOMY 40 lb nugget maker elsewhere in this guide, the smaller footprint and 5–7 minute first batch make this the better fit for counters with limited depth. The 15-minute dual-pump self-cleaning cycle is quicker than the 30-minute cycle on the bullet-ice EUHOMY models, though the included cleaner packs and post-descaling ice discarding add maintenance steps that simpler machines skip. The 1.8 lb basket is the largest in this batch but still fills fast at peak output.
Pros:- Chewable nugget ice in 5–7 minutes — a texture bullet machines can’t match
- Highest daily capacity in this batch at up to 35 lbs
- 15-minute dual-pump self-cleaning with detachable lid
- Runs under 45 dB and includes four cleaner packs
Cons:- 1.8 lb basket still needs frequent emptying at high output
- Descaling requires running extra cleaning cycles and discarding first ice batches
Best for: Nugget-ice devotees, home bartenders, and iced-coffee drinkers who prioritize texture over budget
Not ideal for: Buyers who just need basic ice for water bottles and lunchboxes — bullet-ice models do that job for less money and less upkeep
- Daily ice capacity:Up to 35 lbs
- First batch time:About 5–7 minutes
- Ice type:Nugget (soft, chewable)
- Water reservoir capacity:1.1 L
- Ice basket capacity:1.8 lbs
- Noise level:Under 45 dB
- Dimensions:12.28 × 11.14 × 8.5 in (H × D × W)
- Certification:ETL
- Warranty:1 year; extendable to 2 with registration
Our verdict“If chewable ice is the whole point of your purchase, this is the standout; if it isn’t, a cheaper bullet-ice model serves you better.”
EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker with Handle, 26 lb/Day, Bullet Ice, Auto-Cleaning (Black)
Functionally, this black EUHOMY is nearly identical to the portable EUHOMY above — same 6-minute batches of 9 bullet cubes, same 26 lb daily ceiling, same 1.2 L tank and 1.3 lb basket — but it comes in at a more accessible price point, which earns it the value slot. If you don’t need the touchscreen and scheduling of the Silonn, skipping those features here costs you little in real-world ice output.
The one-touch self-cleaning and ice-full/low-water indicators are the features that actually matter day to day, and this model has both. The compromises are familiar: the basket fills fast, and the tank needs topping up to sustain the 26 lb claim. Compared with the Crzoe, you give up selectable ice sizes but gain a carry handle and a clearly stated basket capacity.
Pros:- Matches pricier EUHOMY models on speed and daily output
- One-touch self-cleaning keeps maintenance minimal
- Carry handle adds portability at a value price
- Ice-full and low-water indicators are standard, not optional
Cons:- 1.3 lb basket requires frequent emptying
- Needs regular tank refills to maintain continuous production
Best for: First-time buyers who want dependable bullet ice and core features without paying for extras they won’t use
Not ideal for: Buyers who want flexibility in cube size or a larger basket — the fixed bullet shape and 1.3 lb capacity limit both
- Daily ice capacity:Up to 26 lbs
- Ice-making time:About 6 minutes per batch
- Ice shape:Bullet
- Water tank capacity:1.2 L
- Ice basket capacity:1.3 lbs
- Noise level:Less than 45 dB
- Power:170 W
- Dimensions:11.57 × 11.42 × 8.74 in
- Warranty:12 months
Our verdict“The sensible default for straightforward bullet-ice needs — pay more only if you want nugget ice, scheduling, or size options.”
Crzoe Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lbs/24 Hours, Two Ice Sizes, Self-Cleaning, Black
The two-size ice option is what separates this Crzoe from the single-size bullet machines here. Small cubes chill drinks fast and blend well; larger ones melt slower in a whiskey glass. No EUHOMY model in this batch offers that choice. Its sub-40 dB rating also makes it the quietest claim in the lineup — a real advantage if it sits near a bedroom or office, edging out the 45 dB EUHOMY models.
Where it lags is transparency and speed range: batches take 6–12 minutes depending on size, slower than the EUHOMY’s consistent 6, and the manufacturer never states basket capacity — a gap the EUHOMY value pick fills with a clear 1.3 lb figure. You’ll also need to watch the indicator lights yourself, since the basket fills without a stated reserve. The transparent viewing window is a nice touch the solid-lid machines lack.
Pros:- Two selectable ice sizes cover both quick-chilling and slow-melting uses
- Manufacturer-rated under 40 dB — the quietest claim in this batch
- Transparent top window lets you check progress without opening anything
- Self-cleaning mode plus water and full-basket indicators
Cons:- Cycle times stretch to 12 minutes for larger cubes
- Basket capacity is not specified, making output planning a guess
Best for: Buyers in apartments, offices, or bedrooms who value quiet operation and want small or large cubes for different drinks
Not ideal for: Anyone who wants precise capacity specs before buying — the unstated basket size and variable cycle times make planning harder
- Daily ice production:26 lbs
- Ice-making time:6–12 minutes
- Ice per cycle:8 bullet-shaped cubes
- Ice sizes:Small and large
- Noise level:Less than 40 dB
- Compressor refrigerant:R600a
- Self-cleaning:Yes
- Color:Black
Our verdict“Pick this if low noise and cube-size flexibility top your list; pick a spec-complete EUHOMY if predictable output matters more.”
Sillon Countertop Ice Maker with Expandable Ice Basket and Two Ice Sizes
What separates this Sillon from the crowded field of 26-lb-per-day bullet machines is its expandable 2.5L ice basket, which holds up to nine cups of ice at once. Compared with the Frigidaire EFIC117-SS, whose basket maxes out at 1.5 pounds, that means fewer mid-party trips to empty the bin into the freezer. The 1.8L water tank is also larger than the Crzoe’s 1.2L, so refills come less often when the machine is running hard. First ice lands in roughly six minutes, and the one-touch self-cleaning cycle keeps maintenance from becoming a chore.
The tradeoff is that this is still a manual machine — you pour water in, you scoop ice out, and it does not keep ice frozen indefinitely. Anyone expecting freezer-style storage will be disappointed.
Pros:- Expandable 2.5L basket holds up to 9 cups of ice, reducing emptying frequency
- Fast 6-minute cycles with a choice of two bullet ice sizes
- Larger 1.8L water tank means fewer refills than smaller-capacity rivals
- Compact footprint with one-touch self-cleaning
Cons:- Requires manual water refills and basket emptying throughout the day
- No freezer-style insulation, so stored ice slowly melts if left sitting
Best for: Hosts and families who cycle through lots of bullet ice and want the biggest on-board buffer between batches
Not ideal for: Anyone who wants set-and-forget operation — the tank still needs manual refills and the basket needs emptying
- Ice production:Up to 26 lbs per 24 hours
- Ice-making time:9 bullet cubes in about 6 minutes
- Ice sizes:2
- Ice basket capacity:2.5L (expandable)
- Water tank capacity:1.8L
- Dimensions:8.9 × 13.2 × 11.14 inches
- Controls:LED touch panel
- Cleaning:One-touch self-cleaning
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for buyers who prioritize on-board ice capacity over portability in a bullet-ice machine.”
Frigidaire EFIC117-SS Portable Countertop Ice Maker, Stainless Steel
The Frigidaire EFIC117-SS earns its spot on name recognition and thoughtful design rather than raw specs. Its daily output matches the Silonn and Aeitto at 26 pounds, but the stainless steel finish and viewing window give it a more finished look on an open counter — a genuine plus if your ice maker lives next to the coffee machine rather than hidden in a corner. The digital control panel is straightforward, and the drain plug makes end-of-season emptying cleaner than tipping the whole unit over a sink, something the Crzoe and Aeitto don’t offer as elegantly.
Its weak point is the 1.5-pound basket, which is smaller than the Silonn’s expandable 2.5L bin, so heavy users will empty it more often. Compared with lesser-known brands, you’re paying for brand support and a one-year warranty rather than extra capacity.
Pros:- Established appliance brand with a 1-year warranty
- Stainless steel finish and viewing window suit visible countertops
- Drain plug simplifies cleaning and emptying
- Includes an ice scoop and simple digital controls
Cons:- Basket holds only 1.5 lbs at a time, less than rivals like the Sillon
- Water tank requires frequent manual refills
Best for: Buyers who want a recognizable appliance brand with warranty backing and counter-friendly styling
Not ideal for: High-volume entertainers — the 1.5-pound basket fills quickly during heavy use
- Brand:Frigidaire
- Model:EFIC117-SS
- Ice production:Up to 26 lbs per day
- Ice cycle:9 cubes in about 7 minutes
- Ice size options:2 (bullet-shaped)
- Water tank capacity:2.1 qt.
- Basket capacity:1.5 lbs.
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“This model is better suited to buyers who value brand accountability and kitchen-friendly looks over maximum ice storage.”
Crzoe Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lb/24 h, Two Ice Sizes, Self-Cleaning, Grey
If noise is the deciding factor — say the machine sits in a home office, dorm, or near a bedroom — the Crzoe stands out for its compressor rated at under 40 dB, quieter than most bullet-ice competitors, which typically don’t publish a noise figure at all. It’s also the lightest and most carry-friendly option here at 11.77 pounds with a built-in handle, compared with the 13-pound Aeitto, which offers no handle. Cycle times run 6–12 minutes for eight cubes, a touch slower on average than the Silonn’s consistent six minutes.
The compromises are real: a 1.3-pound storage basket is the smallest in this batch, and the 1.2L water tank demands the most frequent refills of any model listed. This option trades capacity for quiet, portability, and a slim footprint that fits tight counters.
Pros:- Runs under 40 dB, quieter than typical bullet-ice machines
- Lightweight 11.77 lb build with a carry handle
- Two cube sizes plus a self-cleaning cycle
- Slim 8.66-inch width fits narrow countertops
Cons:- Smallest ice storage in this lineup at 1.3 lbs
- 1.2L water tank needs the most frequent refills of the group
Best for: Dorm residents, RV owners, and small-space dwellers who need quiet operation and easy portability
Not ideal for: Party hosts — the tiny 1.3 lb basket and 1.2L tank require constant attention during heavy use
- Ice production:Up to 26 lb per 24 hours
- Ice making time:8 cubes in 6–12 minutes
- Ice shape:Bullet-shaped, small and large
- Ice storage capacity:1.3 lb
- Water capacity:1.2 L
- Noise level:Less than 40 dB
- Dimensions:8.66 × 10.39 × 11.22 in
- Weight:11.77 lb
Our verdict“This option stands out for quiet, portable ice in small spaces, provided you accept small-capacity tradeoffs.”
EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, 35 lb/24 hr, Stainless Steel
Everything else in this batch makes bullet ice; the EUHOMY nugget model makes the soft, chewable pellet ice that Sonic-and-Sonic-drink fans chase. That difference alone justifies its place — if your priority is ice texture for cocktails, smoothies, or snacking, bullet machines like the Silonn or Frigidaire simply won’t deliver. Output is also the highest here at 35 pounds per day, with nuggets ready in about seven minutes from a one-button interface and a self-cleaning cycle for maintenance.
The catch is the 1.1-liter water tank, the smallest in the lineup. Because nugget ice is softer and melts faster than bullet ice, you’ll be refilling often during sustained use — this is a machine for steady snacking and drink-making, not filling a cooler. The stainless build looks the part on a modern counter, but expect more tending than the larger-tank bullet options.
Pros:- Produces soft, chewable nugget ice rather than bullet cubes
- Highest daily output in this batch at 35 lbs per 24 hours
- One-button operation with a self-cleaning cycle
- Stainless steel build with a compact countertop footprint
Cons:- 1.1L water tank requires the most frequent refills when producing at full clip
- Nugget ice melts faster than bullet ice, so it’s poor for long-term storage
Best for: Nugget-ice lovers who want chewable pellet ice without a built-in undercounter machine
Not ideal for: Set-and-forget users — the small 1.1L tank and fast-melting nugget ice demand frequent attention
- Ice type:Nugget (soft, chewable)
- Ice production:Up to 35 lb per 24 hours
- Ice ready time:About 7 minutes
- Water tank capacity:1.1 L
- Dimensions:11 × 9.1 × 12.6 in
- Material:Stainless steel
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“Worth it for buyers whose main goal is chewable nugget ice at home, provided they don’t mind babysitting a small tank.”
Aeitto Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lb Daily Capacity
The Aeitto is the straightforward entry point of this group: no handle like the Crzoe, no viewing window like the Frigidaire, just fast first ice in about six minutes, a solid 26-pound daily output, two bullet sizes, and an automatic self-cleaning cycle that keeps ownership simple. Its 7.3-inch depth is actually the slimmest here, so it squeezes into counter gaps that would swallow the wider Silonn. For a first-time buyer who just wants cold drinks covered without studying spec sheets, it covers the basics well.
Compared with the Silonn’s nine-cup expandable basket, the Aeitto’s compact bin needs emptying more often during heavy use, and it lacks any standout differentiator beyond speed. This is a capable machine that plays it safe rather than excelling at anything specific.
Pros:- First batch of ice ready in about 6 minutes
- Two ice sizes with automatic self-cleaning
- Slim 7.3-inch depth fits tight counter spaces
- Includes basket and scoop with a 1-year warranty
Cons:- Compact basket needs frequent emptying during heavy use
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance to keep performing
Best for: First-time buyers and small households who want quick, dependable bullet ice at a low complexity level
Not ideal for: Buyers chasing a specific strength — quiet operation, nugget ice, or large storage — since this model excels at nothing in particular
- Ice type:Bullet
- Ice sizes:2
- Daily ice production:26 lbs
- Time to first batch:6 minutes
- Dimensions:11.9 × 7.3 × 10.8 in
- Weight:13 lbs
- Cleaning:Automatic self-cleaning
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“A sensible no-frills choice for casual users, though specialists should step up to a stronger single-feature pick.”
How We Picked
I ranked these countertop ice makers on five buyer-facing criteria rather than spec sheets alone. First, ice quality and type: nugget ice earns a premium over bullet ice because it chills faster, absorbs drink flavors, and doesn’t crack glasses; within bullet makers, I favored models offering two ice sizes. Second, practical daily output — not the advertised maximum, but how each machine performs in a warm kitchen with a full basket, since all countertop makers recycle melted ice and slow down as their insulated bins fill. Third, ease of maintenance: machines with true automatic cleaning cycles and accessible water tanks ranked above those requiring frequent manual descaling.
Fourth, I weighed noise and footprint, because most of these end up on a kitchen counter a few feet from where people talk and eat — nugget machines are inherently louder, which affected their placement for apartment dwellers. Finally, portability and value: handles, manageable weight, and features that justify the price gap (timers, lighting, larger baskets) separated otherwise similar bullet makers like the Crzoe, Silonn, and Frigidaire trio. The ranking reflects who each machine serves best, not just raw capability — a perfect bullet maker for a dorm ranks below a nugget machine for a family that drinks smoothies daily.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Countertop Ice Makers
Before picking a specific model, it helps to understand what actually varies across countertop ice makers — and where buyers most often regret their choice. These are the factors that shaped the rankings above.Nugget Ice vs. Bullet Ice: The Decision That Drives Everything Else
This is the single biggest fork in the road, and it determines your budget, weight, and noise level before you look at anything else. Nugget ice (also called Sonic-style or pellet ice) is soft, chewable, and absorbs beverages — it’s what makes fountain drinks taste better, and it’s why the EUHOMY nugget models command a premium. The tradeoffs are real: nugget machines typically weigh 30+ lbs, run louder because they continuously scrape ice from a cylinder, and cost roughly double a comparable bullet maker. Bullet ice — the hollow cylindrical cubes from Silonn, Crzoe, Frigidaire, and the standard EUHOMY models — freezes faster, stores longer in the insulated basket, and works fine for water, cocktails, and coolers. A common mistake is buying a nugget machine for the novelty and then resenting the noise on an open kitchen counter. If you’re unsure, bullet ice with a self-cleaning cycle is the safer default; upgrade to nugget only if you know you’ll use it daily.
Daily Output Numbers Are Optimistic — Here’s Why
Every machine here advertises 26–40 lbs per day, and every one of those numbers assumes ideal conditions you won’t replicate at home. Output drops with warm ambient air, warm incoming water, and a full ice basket, because countertop makers aren’t freezers — the insulated basket slowly melts your ice, and the machine recycles that water into new batches. In practice, expect 60–75% of the rated figure in a 75°F kitchen. What matters more than the headline number is batch cycle time: most bullet makers produce a small batch every 7–10 minutes, so ice accumulates steadily rather than all at once. If you’re hosting, the winning strategy is starting the machine 2–3 hours before guests arrive regardless of capacity. Buyers who fixate on the 40 lbs figure over the 26 lbs figure often pay for capacity they can’t use, since neither machine keeps more than a few pounds cold at once.
Self-Cleaning Cycles: Standard Feature, Uneven Execution
Nearly every model in this roundup advertises self-cleaning, but the phrase covers a range of actual effort required. The best implementations (EUHOMY’s automatic cycles) circulate cleaning solution through the system and mostly just need a rinse tank afterward. Others run a flush cycle but still leave mineral scale on the evaporator rods, which means a manual vinegar soak every few weeks in hard-water homes. Scale buildup is the number one killer of countertop ice makers — it insulates the freezing surface, shrinks your ice, and eventually triggers error codes. If your tap water is hard, budget for filtered or distilled water regardless of which machine you buy; it extends lifespan far more than any cleaning cycle. Also check whether the water tank is removable, because a tank you can carry to the sink makes weekly maintenance a two-minute job instead of a sponge-and-towel ordeal.
Noise Levels and Placement
This is the most underestimated factor, and it’s the top reason countertop ice makers get returned. Bullet makers hum at roughly the level of a refrigerator — noticeable but ignorable. Nugget makers are a different story: the auger mechanism that scrapes ice produces a grinding sound with every batch, which is fine in a pantry or basement bar but intrusive next to a dining table or in a studio apartment. Before buying, decide where the machine will live and whether that spot has a drain-adjacent water source and clearance for ventilation. All of these machines need a few inches of airflow on all sides, and cramming one under cabinets causes overheating and reduced output. Weight matters for placement too — the handled models (DUMOS, EUHOMY) are genuinely movable, while the heavier nugget units should be considered permanent fixtures.
Basket Capacity and the Melting Problem
No countertop ice maker keeps ice frozen — the basket is insulated, not refrigerated, so ice slowly melts and drains back into the reservoir. This means basket size determines how much usable ice you have on hand at any moment, regardless of daily output ratings. A 1.5–2 lb basket covers a family dinner; entertaining a crowd means either transferring ice to a freezer bag as it produces or timing your start so the basket is full when needed. This is why Silonn’s expandable basket model earned its spot — the extra capacity directly addresses the most common frustration. One caution about freezing extra ice: bullet ice from these machines contains more air than commercial ice and can fuse into clumps in your freezer. A freezer bag you squeeze the air out of, or breaking ice up before bagging, prevents the solid-block problem.
When to Pay More — and When Not To
The price ladder in this category has a clear logic. Basic bullet makers with self-cleaning (Silonn, Crzoe, Aeitto) cover 90% of buyers’ needs, and paying more within the bullet category buys you convenience features — handles, touchscreens, timers, larger baskets — rather than better ice. The genuine quality jump happens at nugget ice machines, where the EUHOMY 35 lb and 40 lb models justify their premium through ice texture alone. What’s rarely worth paying for: app connectivity, which adds cost and setup friction to a machine with one button’s worth of functionality, and oversized daily ratings you’ll never reach. A reasonable rule — if you go through less than a bag of store ice per week, buy a budget bullet maker; if you buy ice weekly or crave chewable ice, the nugget upgrade pays for itself within a season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do countertop ice makers keep the ice frozen, or will it melt?
Countertop ice makers do not freeze ice — they only produce it. The basket is insulated, which slows melting, but ice gradually melts and the water drains back into the reservoir to be recycled into the next batch. This is why the machines run continuously when switched on, and why daily output ratings assume constant melting and re-production. For events, transfer finished ice to your freezer in squeeze-the-air-out freezer bags, since the softer bullet ice from these machines clumps more than commercial ice. The expandable basket on the Silonn model is the best in this lineup for buying extra on-hand capacity before you need it.
Is nugget ice really worth the extra cost over bullet ice?
It depends on how you use ice, but for daily drinkers of sodas, iced coffee, smoothies, or cocktails, the difference is substantial. Nugget ice is softer to chew, chills drinks faster due to its surface area, and absorbs flavor rather than diluting it — that’s why restaurants pay a premium for it. The tradeoffs are meaningful: the EUHOMY nugget models in this roundup are heavier, louder, and cost well above the bullet makers. If you mostly fill water bottles or coolers, bullet ice from the Silonn or Frigidaire models does the same job for far less. My rule of thumb: if you’ve ever gone out of your way to get chewable ice, buy nugget; if ice is just cold filler, don’t.
How loud are these machines, and can I use one in an apartment?
Bullet ice makers run at roughly refrigerator-level noise — a steady hum plus occasional water sounds, which most people stop noticing after a day. Nugget machines are noticeably louder because they use an auger to scrape ice, producing a grinding sound every few minutes; this is the main drawback of the otherwise excellent EUHOMY nugget models. In an apartment, a bullet maker on a stable, level counter away from bedrooms is rarely a problem, and placing a silicone mat underneath reduces vibration transfer. Avoid enclosed cabinets or tight spots, since poor ventilation makes the compressor work harder and get louder. If you’re noise-sensitive and still want nugget ice, plan to run the machine in a hallway, pantry, or during hours when the noise won’t bother anyone.
How often do I need to clean a countertop ice maker, and what happens if I don’t?
Plan on running the self-cleaning cycle every one to two weeks with regular use, plus a deeper vinegar descale monthly if you have hard water. Skipping maintenance has a compounding cost: mineral scale builds up on the evaporator rods, insulating them so ice forms smaller and slower, and eventually sensors throw error codes that mimic a broken machine. Many ‘dead’ countertop ice makers are just heavily scaled. Using filtered or distilled water dramatically slows this process and improves ice taste at the same time. Among the models compared here, EUHOMY’s automatic cleaning cycles demand the least hands-on work, while the budget bullet makers still benefit from a manual vinegar soak even with their self-clean functions.
Can I leave a countertop ice maker running all the time?
Yes, these machines are designed for continuous operation — they pause automatically when the basket is full and restart as ice melts, so there’s no overflow risk. That said, running constantly with tap water accelerates scale buildup and shortens the cleaning interval, so most owners compromise by running the machine daily during high-use periods and draining it overnight. The timer on the Silonn touchscreen model is the best tool for this among the picks here, letting you schedule production to finish right before you need ice rather than running around the clock. When you do shut it down for more than a day or two, drain the reservoir completely and leave the lid open to air out — stagnant water in the tank is the main cause of off-tasting ice after a break in use.
Conclusion
After comparing all fifteen machines, the right choice comes down to what kind of ice drinker you are. For best overall, the EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker (40 lbs per Day) delivers the ice quality people actually upgrade for, with enough volume for a household that uses ice every day. The best premium pick is the EUHOMY 35 lb Stainless Steel nugget model, which trades a little capacity for a finish and build suited to a visible kitchen or bar area. Best value goes to the Silonn Portable Countertop Ice Maker with Self-Cleaning, which covers the essentials honestly at a budget price, with the Crzoe and Aeitto models close behind for buyers who prefer their styling or dual ice sizes.
For beginners and first-time buyers, the Frigidaire Portable Countertop Ice Maker (26 lb) is the lowest-risk entry point — simple controls, a trusted appliance brand, and no features to learn. Best for entertaining is the Silonn with the expandable basket and touchscreen timer, built for scheduling and holding more ice before a gathering. If portability is the priority — RVs, vacation homes, office moves — the DUMOS with handle or the EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker with Handle are the picks that won’t strain your back. Whatever you choose, remember that every machine here rewards filtered water and a monthly descale; the difference between an ice maker that lasts two years and one that lasts ten is mostly maintenance, not price.
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