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Summer is right around the corner, and nothing makes a pool day melt away faster than running out of ice just when you need to chill another batch of lemonade (or margaritas, no judgment here). A countertop ice maker can solve that crisis in a matter of minutes, turning a sliver of counter space into an oasis on demand. They’re faster than the freezer’s clunky tray, easier than stocking bagged ice and — as a bonus — many models are on sale right now.
Amazon has tons of pint-sized powerhouses that won’t clog up your counters — and are able to crank out enough nugget, pebble or classic “bullet” cubes to keep a whole pool party sufficiently chilled. Several even come with self-cleaning modes, quiet compressors and sturdy carrying handles so they can migrate from kitchen island to RV to tailgate.
We sifted through thousands of reviews (and tested out some models ourselves) to spotlight the best ones below.
NewAir Portable Ice Maker 50 lb. Daily
Our Best of the Best wowed testers by producing a fresh batch of ice every six minutes and conveniently self-cleaning. It’s also quiet enough that it won’t drown out conversation on the patio.
EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle, 26lbs in 24Hrs
Get the Best Bang for Your Buck, according to BestReviews testers. This under-$100 model has a flip-up lid for easy scooping, and its sturdy handle makes it easy to carry.
Silonn Ice Maker Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Carry Handle
Compact but speedy, this ice maker has touch-panel controls so you can easily choose cube size and start self-clean modes, and a slide-out basket and integrated carry handle make it party-friendly.
EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Handle, Ready in 6 Mins, 34lbs Per Day
Sonic-style chewable ice at home in only six minutes per cycle: That’s the summer dream. This ice maker has a removable top cover for easy cleaning, while a built-in handle and slim profile fit condo kitchens or RVs.
HealSmart Ice Maker for Countertop, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26lbs Ice/24Hrs
The self-clean function keeps mineral deposits at bay, and indicator lights tell you when water is low or the basket is full on this compact ice maker.
Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker
Well-known fridge brand, same chill expertise. The stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints, and a side drain plug empties meltwater without wrestling the machine.
SMUG Countertop Ice Maker, 9 Cubes in 6 Mins, 26lbs in 24Hrs
Available in retro green that looks great by the pool, this ice machine makes two cube sizes, auto cleans, and provides your first batch in just six minutes so you can cool down quickly.
Silonn Ice Maker Countertop, 9 Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26lbs in 24Hrs
This ice machine offers a nearly silent compressor and easy-tap controls, and the included scoop nests inside the basket, so nothing goes missing in the drawer.
Sweetcrispy Countertop Ice Maker with Scoop, Basket and Handle, 9 Ice Cubes Machine Ready in 6 Mins, 26.5lbs in 24Hrs
This ice maker is good-looking — it’s a sleek black cube with a top-mounted handle and soft-touch panel, so it fits in with a wide range of decor and won’t clash with other appliances on your countertops.
EUHOMY Nugget Ice Makers Countertop, Pebble Ice Maker Machine with 35lbs/24H Soft Ice
This ice machine’s heavy-duty stainless build produces the coveted chewable ice you get at many fast food places — without leaving home.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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