Compact countertop ice maker
This convenient appliance quickly produces fresh ice, perfect for entertaining guests or daily beverage enjoyment in any kitchen.
Kitchen & Coffee
Ice makers
6 kinds worth knowing, 11 picks, and what to check before you buy.
An ice maker suits people who already run out of ice: the host who fills a cooler every long weekend, the couple who likes a proper cocktail, the new homeowner fitting out a basement bar. The ones that get used sit somewhere handy and make ice people actually want. A countertop ice maker is the easy choice for most kitchens. A nugget ice maker suits someone who loves the soft, chewable ice from their favourite drive-through. Before you pick one, think about where it will sit, how much ice the household really goes through, and whether they have the counter space and patience for regular cleaning.
Kind 1 of 6
Countertop ice makers for everyday kitchens
A countertop ice maker plugs into a regular outlet, fills from a water reservoir you top up by hand, and makes its first batch in minutes. No plumbing needed, so it works for renters and condo kitchens. It suits someone who makes iced coffee, mixed drinks or cold water all day and is tired of trays. Before buying, measure the counter space, including room for the lid to open and air to vent. Check how big the ice basket is, what shape the cubes are, and whether draining and cleaning look simple.
Kind 2 of 6
Nugget ice for people who chew ice
A nugget ice maker makes small, soft, porous pellets that soak up the drink and are easy to chew. People who love this ice really love it, and it makes a thoughtful gift for a friend or family member who keeps buying bags of it. These machines tend to be bigger and louder than basic cube makers. Check the footprint, how loud it is, whether it has a side tank for more water, and how often it needs descaling in homes with hard water.
Chewable nugget ice machine
Delight friends and family with soft, chewable nugget ice, ideal for refreshing drinks and a unique texture experience.
Kind 3 of 6
Choosing a home ice machine by output
The broad ice machine category covers fast-batch cube makers, large-capacity units for parties and combos that also dispense cold water. The right one depends on how the ice will be used. A household that hosts often needs a big daily output and a roomy basket. Someone who wants chilled water too may prefer a combo. Compare daily output with the basket size, since ice melts back into the reservoir if nobody empties it. Also check the cube size options and how easy the unit is to drain.
Fast production home ice maker
Experience rapid ice production and consistent quality with a durable, commercial-style unit scaled for home use, perfect for serious entertainers.
Ice and water dispenser combo
Offer the convenience of both chilled water and fresh ice from a single, versatile appliance, ideal for busy households and offices.
Large capacity party ice maker
Ensure an abundant supply of ice for large gatherings and events with this robust machine, perfect for frequent hosts and entertainers.
Kind 4 of 6
Portable ice makers for cottage and camper
A portable ice maker is a lighter countertop unit with a carry handle that's easy to move between the kitchen, the deck, the cottage or an RV. It suits a dad who camps with a trailer or a family that spends summers at the lake. Keep in mind that it still needs a power source and a flat surface, so it won't replace a cooler on a canoe trip. Check the weight, the handle, how the reservoir drains for travel, and whether the power draw works on a generator or campground hookup.
Portable outdoor ice maker
Enjoy fresh ice on the go with this durable, compact unit, ideal for camping trips, RV adventures, tailgating, or backyard BBQs.
Kind 5 of 6
Built-in under counter ice makers
An under counter ice maker installs into cabinetry like a bar fridge and usually connects to a water line and often a drain. It suits a homeowner finishing a basement bar, an outdoor kitchen or a renovation. The recipient needs to be on board, since it involves measuring, plumbing and possibly a contractor. Before buying, confirm the cutout dimensions, whether the front vents allow a flush fit, whether it needs a drain pump, and whether it's meant for indoor or outdoor use.
Under counter ice machine
Provide a continuous supply of ice with a sleek, integrated appliance designed to fit seamlessly into modern kitchen cabinetry or a home bar.
Kind 6 of 6
Small ice makers for tight spaces
A small ice maker is a pared-down model for a dorm, office kitchenette, apartment or a desk corner. It makes enough for a few drinks at a time without taking over the counter. It suits a student, a single person or someone who only wants ice in the evening. Check the actual dimensions rather than the word small, how loud it runs in a quiet room, and whether the basket holds enough for the way they drink.
How to choose ice makers as a gift
- Measure the spot where it will live, including clearance for the lid and air vents, before choosing a model.
- Match daily output and basket size to how the household actually uses ice, not to the biggest number.
- Pick the ice style they already like, whether that's clear cubes, bullet ice or soft chewable nuggets.
- Look for easy draining and a self-cleaning cycle, since these machines need regular upkeep to stay pleasant.
- For built-in units, confirm with the recipient first that the water line, drain and cabinet cutout will work.
Usually safe to skip
- Built-in under counter machines as a surprise usually miss, because they depend on plumbing, measurements and renovation plans.
- Large party-size machines for someone in a small apartment tend to end up in a closet after a few uses.
- Novelty ice gadgets that make only a handful of cubes get old fast for anyone who drinks cold drinks daily.
Questions people ask about ice makers
- What is the difference between a nugget ice maker and a regular countertop ice maker?
- A regular countertop ice maker makes hard, bullet-shaped cubes in quick batches. A nugget ice maker compresses flakes into soft, chewable pellets that soak up the drink. Nugget models are usually bigger and cost more to run, so they're best for someone who specifically loves that ice.
- Does a countertop ice maker need a water line?
- Most don't. You fill the reservoir by hand and the machine recirculates meltwater. Some models can also connect to a water line for convenience, while under counter units usually need a water line and a drain.
- Is a portable ice maker good for camping?
- It works well where there's power, like an RV, trailer, cottage or serviced campsite. It still needs electricity and a level surface, so for backcountry trips a good cooler is the more practical choice.
Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.
Everything else
All ice makers picks
Showing 1–11 of 11
Screaming Rubber Chickens (3 Pack)
One chicken is a joke. Three is an arsenal. The party never recovers.
