10 Best Countertop Ice Machines 2025 in the United States

The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a countertop ice maker that produces delicious nugget ice, often referred to as 'the good ice.' With a production capacity of up to 38 pounds of ice in 24 hours and the ability to generate a batch in as little as 10 minutes, it’s perfect for gatherings or everyday use. Its chewable ice is a standout feature, ideal for cocktails, smoothies, or simply enjoying in drinks.

The device includes a 1-gallon detachable water tank, enhancing its convenience by eliminating the need for an external water source. This feature allows for increased ice production, a significant plus for larger households or parties. The built-in WiFi and voice control capabilities add a modern touch, enabling you to monitor the ice maker remotely and schedule ice production through the SmartHQ app.

While the unit can store up to 3 pounds of ice at a time, some may find this storage capacity less than ideal for larger events. Additionally, regular maintenance is necessary to keep the ice tasting fresh, as the cleaning kit and water filter are sold separately. The 300-watt power usage is reasonable for its capabilities, but if you're concerned about energy consumption, it might be a point to consider. The design is sleek with a stainless steel finish, making it an attractive addition to your kitchen counter, though its weight of 38 pounds might limit portability for some users. This ice maker stands out for its speed and quality of ice, but users should be mindful of its storage limitations and maintenance requirements.

The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL is a countertop ice machine designed for those who want soft, chewable nugget ice, which many find more enjoyable than traditional hard cubes. It can produce up to 38 pounds of ice in 24 hours, with the first batch ready in about 10 minutes, making it suitable for regular home use or small gatherings. The ice storage capacity is modest at 3 pounds, meaning if you need a lot of ice on hand, you might need to refresh batches frequently.

It’s convenient because it has a built-in 1-gallon water tank, so you don’t need to connect it to a water line—just fill the tank manually. The tank is removable, which helps with filling and cleaning, although regular maintenance like descaling is recommended to keep the ice tasting fresh. The machine supports smart features with WiFi and voice control via Alexa or Google, allowing you to monitor and schedule ice production from your phone, which adds a modern touch but might be more than some users need.

At 17.5 inches deep, 13.4 inches wide, and 16.5 inches high, it’s fairly compact but a bit heavier at 38 pounds, so it’s best suited for a fixed spot on your countertop rather than portability. Its 300-watt power consumption is typical for this type of appliance. One downside is that water filters and cleaning kits are sold separately, adding to the upkeep cost. This ice maker is an excellent choice if you love nugget ice and want a smart, easy-to-use machine for everyday use, but if you need large ice storage or ultra-portability, you might want to consider other options.

The EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker stands out in the countertop ice machine category, especially for those who enjoy nugget or pellet ice. With a quick ice-making time of just 6 to 8 minutes and a solid daily production capacity of 34 pounds, it's ideal for home use, parties, or even RV and camping trips. The soft and chewable texture of the ice makes it great for beverages and snacks alike, adding a fun twist to your drinks.

Portability is another strong feature; its compact design and sturdy handle make it easy to move around, whether you want to set it up in the kitchen or take it outdoors. The ease of use is enhanced by smart features like an auto-cleaning function and indicators for when the ice is full or when water needs to be added, which simplifies maintenance significantly.

While it operates quietly at under 50 dB, it's important to note that being a countertop unit, it still needs space on your kitchen counter. Some users may find the ice storage capacity of 1.8 pounds a bit limiting if hosting larger gatherings, as you might need to empty it frequently. Additionally, the reliance on a plastic build may raise concerns for some about long-term durability compared to metal models.