10 Best Countertop Ice Machines 2026 in the United States

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.

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 GE Profile Opal 2.0 Ultra Nugget Ice Maker is a strong choice for those wanting chewable, pellet-style ice that's great for cooling drinks quickly and snacking. It can produce up to 38 pounds of ice in 24 hours, which is quite generous for a countertop model, and its large removable water tank means fewer refills. You get your first batch of ice fast—in around 10 minutes—which is handy if you need ice on demand. The touch display is user-friendly and modern, offering easy control and smart connectivity via WiFi, so you can monitor and manage it conveniently. The machine also includes an advanced cleaning system, simplifying maintenance and helping keep the ice fresh and the machine running smoothly.

Its size (about 17.5” deep, 13.4” wide, and 16.5” high) fits well on most countertops, though it weighs nearly 38 pounds, which makes it less portable if you plan to move it often. One thing to note is that it requires access to water for the side tank, so you'll want to consider where you place it. Excelling in making nugget ice and featuring helpful smart controls, this model is ideal for those seeking a reliable, high-capacity nugget ice maker with easy maintenance. However, if you need other ice types or a lighter, more portable unit, this might not be the best fit.