Best Portable Ice Makers for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: February 1st, 2024

❄️Whether you're throwing a party, heading out for a camping trip, or just like having a cold one at home, a portable ice maker can be a real lifesaver. We've dug deep through reviews and ratings to find the most reliable and efficient portable ice makers you can get in 2024.

From high-end models to more budget-friendly ones, we've got something here for everyone. Let's dive into our top picks to find the perfect ice maker for you.

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Overall Best: NewAir Countertop Ice Maker

Newair 26 lbs. Countertop Ice Maker, Portable and Lightweight, Intuitive Control, Large or Small Ice Size, Easy to Clean BPA-Free Parts, Perfect for Cocktails, Scotch, Soda and More Silver

The NewAir Countertop Ice Maker stands out as 2024's overall best for its exceptional performance, versatile features, and user-friendly design. The sleek unit quickly produces high-quality ice, making it ideal for gatherings, parties, or daily use. It boasts the ability to create three different sizes of ice cubes and has a generous three-quart water reservoir, meeting various needs whether you're hosting a large group or just enjoying a cold drink. Compact enough to fit on any countertop without being intrusive, it's both stylish and functional. The NewAir also features intuitive controls and a convenient self-cleaning function, making maintenance effortless.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$104.99 at Amazon

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Runner-up: GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker

GE Profile Opal 2.0 with 0.75 Gallon Tank, Chewable Crunchable Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, Scoop included, 38 lbs in 24 hours, Pellet Ice Machine with WiFi & Smart Connected, Stainless Steel

Earning the runner-up spot, the GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker is renowned for its superior nugget ice production, which is perfect for those who love chewable and slow-melting ice. This machine offers modern conveniences like Wi-Fi compatibility, allowing you to control it remotely, schedule ice making, and monitor the ice bin status via an app. It can produce up to 24 pounds of ice per day and features a self-cleaning system complete with a UV light to sanitize the interior. With its advanced capabilities and low-maintenance design, the GE Opal 2.0 is a premium choice for any household.

Lowest at Amazon
$419.00 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$399.00 at Abt Electronics & Appliances

More Answers

Still curious about the GE Profile Opal 2.0 Ice Maker? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Does the GE Profile Opal 2.0 require distilled water?
The GE Profile Opal 2.0 Ice Maker is designed to make that nugget-style ice, which is great for chilling drinks or even for a quick ice snack. It can produce quite a bit of ice—up to 38 pounds a day, roughly 1.6 pounds every hour—so it's a good fit whether you're just using it at home or having some friends over. About the water, the manufacturer's description doesn't specifically say you need to use distilled water. However, using distilled water can be a smart move, particularly if you live in an area with hard water. Our research suggests that it might help reduce maintenance, make the machine run smoother, and extend its life by cutting down on scale buildup. The ice maker gets going really quickly—about 10 minutes after you turn it on. Although at first, it might make smaller amounts of ice until it really gets going. It's nice that it's quieter compared to some older models, which is a nice bonus. There's also this handy Wi-Fi feature, where you can connect it to the [SmartHQ app](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSmartHQ%2Bapp%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). This lets you monitor and schedule things remotely, which some folks really appreciate. But heads up, if you’re not super tech-savvy, you might find the app setup a bit tricky, as noted in our research. Keeping the ice maker clean is key, especially if you have hard water. Regular cleaning prevents scale buildup and keeps everything working smoothly. Also, some people have mentioned an “Add Water” alert that can be a bit overly sensitive, even when there seems to be enough water in the reservoir. Staying on top of it with regular checks usually helps keep it running well. So, if you're okay with doing some regular cleaning and like the idea of always having fresh ice on hand, the GE Profile Opal 2.0 might just be a great pick for you.
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How loud is the GE Profile Opal 2.0 ice maker?
So, you're wondering how loud the GE Profile Opal 2.0 ice maker is, huh? Based on what we've found, the noise it makes is similar to what you might hear from your fridge or dishwasher. People who've used it often mention it sounds like a low hum or a soft mechanical noise, especially while it's making ice. The manufacturer doesn't give a specific decibel number, but it's generally seen as quieter than a lot of traditional ice makers. If you're comparing, imagine it being much quieter than something like a [blender](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dblender%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or a [hairdryer](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dhairdryer%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). Some folks do notice the noise more in quieter settings—like at night or in a really peaceful room—but for most, it’s just kind of background noise during the day. If you're worried about it being too loud, where you put it might make a difference. Keeping it on a flat, stable surface can help cut down on vibrations and noise. A concrete countertop might do a better job at minimizing sound than a wooden one. Also, keeping up with regular cleaning, as the manufacturer suggests, can help it run smoothly and possibly quieter. If noise is a big deal in your space, maybe try placing it in a pantry or a part of the kitchen that's a bit off the main area. Just a few things to think about when deciding where to set it up!
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How much ice can the GE Profile Opal 2.0 produce in 24 hours?
If you're checking out the GE Profile Opal 2.0 and want to know how much ice it can make, it can produce up to 38 pounds of nugget ice in a day, according to the manufacturer. It starts making ice pretty quickly too, usually within about ten minutes. As for maintenance, there are a few things to keep in mind. Our research shows that while many folks are really happy with how it performs, they’ve noticed it can be a bit noisy and might need a good amount of upkeep. Some have mentioned hearing occasional squeaky noises and suggest regular cleaning to avoid scaling and any mold issues. Using distilled water seems to help cut down on scale buildup, which can make cleaning simpler. The cleaning process itself involves running several cycles with specific cleaning solutions, which might feel a bit tedious, but it's worth it to keep things running smoothly. Noise levels are kind of subjective, but generally, it's thought to be quieter than older versions. You might still hear a light hum or some noise during ice production, so that's something to consider if you're especially sensitive to sound. So if you're a big fan of nugget ice, the Opal 2.0's consistent production might just make those small nuisances feel minor. Plus, it connects with the [SmartHQ app](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsmarthq%2Bapp%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for some added convenience. If having readily available soft, chewable ice sounds appealing, this model could be a nice fit for your home.
View All Answers for

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Budget Pick: Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker

For those seeking an affordable yet efficient option, the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker is our top budget pick. Despite its lower price point, it impressively produces up to 27 pounds of ice per day and offers two ice size options. Its compact design makes it a great fit for small kitchens, RVs, or camping trips. However, the machine may require more frequent cleaning to maintain its efficiency. According to our research, this model balances cost and performance, providing reliable ice production without breaking the bank.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$137.99 at Amazon

Best for Fast Ice Production: Igloo Portable Electric Countertop Ice Maker

Igloo ICEB26HNSS Automatic Self-Cleaning Portable Electric Countertop Ice Maker Machine With Handle, 26 Pounds in 24 Hours, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 7 minutes, With Ice Scoop and Basket, Stainless

If rapid ice production is your main priority, the Igloo Portable Electric Countertop Ice Maker is the ideal choice. This machine delivers its first batch of ice in just 7 minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous gatherings or everyday use. Lightweight and portable, it's easy to move and position wherever you need it. However, some users find it to be a bit noisy, which could be a minor inconvenience. Overall, if speed is essential, the Igloo is a fantastic option that won’t disappoint.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$166.50 at Amazon

Best Stylish Option: Silonn Countertop Ice Maker

Silonn Countertop Ice Maker Machine - Auto-Cleaning Portable Ice Maker, 26lbs in 24Hrs, 2 Sizes of Bullet Ice for Home Kitchen Office Bar Party, Black

For those who prefer their kitchen appliances to be as stylish as they are functional, the Silonn Countertop Ice Maker is an excellent choice. This chic unit not only enhances the look of your countertop but also delivers fast ice production, churning out 26 pounds of ice per day. Its compact size makes it suitable for small spaces, and the self-cleaning function adds a layer of convenience. While it may not offer any particularly unique features, its sleek design and reliable performance make it a standout option for cocktail enthusiasts and design-conscious users alike.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$79.99 at Amazon
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