5 Best Countertop Ice Makers
A countertop ice maker is a device suited for the kitchen. The sole purpose of the machine is producing ice for cold beverages. Water is poured into the ice maker, and then it creates ice. It is in one part simple, and yet in another part, there are significant differences of the various ice makers. Make certain to measure the intended space for the item as each one has slightly different dimensions.
This is an ideal device for a homeowner, or someone renting an apartment or home. This article will review five countertop ice makers. It will discuss the various features such as speed, type of cubes, dimensions, costs, and the advantages and disadvantages of each ice maker. In particular, a discussion will touch on the reason for the device as opposed to freezer ice cubes.
Please note that all items including prices are current at the time of the writing of this review. They are, of course, subject to change.
SILONN ICE MAKER COUNTERTOP
Speed is a feature that is important to varying degrees to different consumers. This machine (SLIM01B) model can produce 9 cubes in 6 minutes for the consumer interested in having a glass of ice cubes in a short period of time. For the long term, such as preparing for guests, the owner can expect 26 pounds of ice cubes to be produced over a 24-hour time span.
An ice scoop and basket are part and parcel of this item which is the number one seller in this category at this time. It is self-cleaning and quiet as it makes cubes.
Another feature is bullet ice cubes. Those items get their name from being round and hollow in the middle like a bullet. They are advertised for use in the Home Kitchin Office Bar Party. Bullet ice cubes are harder and denser than the standard nugget cubes. This may be a feature that some buyers would consider a priority.
Dimension is also important. The countertop ice maker needs to fit easily on a countertop. This particular model measures 12.3 inches deep, 8,7 inches wide, and 12.5 inches tall.
The price listed is $89.72 which is advertised as a limited time deal. There is a $10 discount for use of the Amazon Store Card.
COWSAR ICE MAKER COUNTERTOP
This model has similar features for speed and ability to produce larger quantities of ice. It also produces those bullet ice cubes and comes with a basket and scoop. Self-cleaning and quiet operation are also features of this machine.
The dimensions are different. The Cowsar is 11.2 inches deep, 8.6 inches wide, and 11.7 inches high. Not much difference, but on some countertops, every inch may matter.
If a purchaser has plans to take the countertop ice maker on a trip, or more likely, to a friend's home, it comes with a handle which would make it easier to carry and transport. It is advertised for use in camping as well and the handle would come in handy for that type of trip.
This model comes with a price tag of $69.99 which is obviously below the Silonn model above. It also offers the same $10 discount with the store card.
NUGGET COUNTERTOP ICE MAKER
This model is more expensive. The list price is $214.99 ($169.99 using Amazon Prime). One feature not listed with the previous models is stainless steel silver.
It makes 34 pounds of ice in 24 hours. There is no listing for the quick ice cubes as found above. Of course, an owner does not have to wait all day to take cubes out with the provided scoop.
It is advertised as user-friendly due to its one-button operation. Press that button and watch the ice being made through the transparent lid. The machine produces chewable nugget ice which preserves the flavor of the beverage that is being used.
Dimensions are 8.66 inches deep, 11.3 inches wide, and 12.8 inches tall. These differ from the first two reviewed.
ECOZY PORTABLE ICE MAKER COUNTERTOP
This model comes in a black color. It produces those same fast 9 cubes in 6 minutes. Each cycle is 6 minutes. Over the one-day period the customer can expect 26 pounds of ice cubes. The Ecozy makes two sizes of cubes. This gives the owner the option to make small or larger ice cubes.
Ice bags are part of the purchase price. Place the unused cubes in the bag to store in the freezer compartment of the kitchen refrigerator for later use.
Dimensions are 8.74 inches deep, 11.57 inches wide, and 11.42 inches high.
Price is $109.99 with a lower price at Prime at $79.99.
SILONN ICE MAKER COUNTERTOP
Not to be confused with the first item above, this is a different model (SLIM21)from the same company. The price is $79.98 with that previously mentioned $10 off when using the store card.
Dimensions are 8.74 inches deep, 11.42 inches wide, and 11.57 inches tall. Again, make sure to measure the space for the equipment. This is another easy to carry machine with a handle. It is self-cleaning, relatively quiet while operating, and, in general, a black color that is easy to operate.
A comparison of these five choices reveals many common features like self-cleaning, ease of operation, and little noise. There are differences worth noting. Price is obviously one consideration as well. Appearance is another. A feature such as a handle may be important to some buyers. Finally, there is size.
Dimensions, as noted earlier, may seem similar. However, a few inches can be the difference between fitting into the intended space, and the buyer having to rearrange the kitchen countertop to make everything fit in its place.
After reading all of the above, and reaching this point, it is worth discussing why a person would buy one of the above rather than relying on the freezer to make ice cubes. One reason is portability. Anyone can carry the above models while freezer ice cubes cannot be carried and kept cold. Another point is production. These models will produce ice in a fast and convenient manner. They also are quiet and do not require any special skills to operate. They are self-cleaning.
