The Best Undercounter Ice Makers

Hello, my friend, hello again; today we come together to talk about The Best Undercounter Ice Makers and hope the blog can help you.

Forgot to fill the ice cube tray again? Have fresh ice always on hand with one of the best undercounter ice makers.

If you host lots of parties, enjoy homemade cocktails, or just like having ice-cold drinks on demand, an undercounter ice maker makes a useful appliance for your kitchen. Also known as a built-in ice maker, these appliances are plumbed and sit under your counter to produce and store ice.

The best built-in ice maker for your kitchen efficiently produces enough clear and tasty ice cubes to serve your needs. Keep reading to learn more about the features to look for in the best undercounter ice makers and explore our top picks for keeping your drinks refreshingly ice cold.

1. BEST OVERALL: EdgeStar 15-Inch Built-In Ice Maker
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Costway Commercial Ice Machine
3. BEST SMALL: Whynter Stainless Steel Built-In Ice Maker
4. BEST LARGE-CAPACITY: Euhomy Undercounter Commercial Ice Machine
5. BEST WIDE: KitchenAid 18-Inch Automatic Ice Maker
6. BEST ENERGY STAR CERTIFIED: Scotsman CU50PA-1A Air Cooled Ice Machine
7. BEST OUTDOOR: Ice-O-Matic Self-Contained Ice Machine
8. BEST FOR HOME BARS: KitchenAid 15-Inch Automatic Ice Maker
9. BEST COMMERCIAL: Northair Freestanding Daily Production Ice Machine
10. BEST FOR HARD WATER: Scotsman CU50GA Undercounter Ice Maker

How We Chose the Best Undercounter Ice Makers

Since undercounter ice makers are built into your cabinets, put as much thought into choosing one as any other major appliance. When choosing the best undercounter ice makers, we researched products based on a few important criteria. We considered more than 25 built-in ice makers and narrowed down the top picks according to their performance, durability, ease of use, and price.

We looked at ice production rates, storage capacities, and factors that contribute to ice quality, such as filters or proprietary technology. We prioritized ice makers constructed with durable materials, favoring stainless steel over plastic. Ice makers with additional ease-of-use features (self-cleaning settings, timers, and LCD controls) earned extra points.

To accommodate the needs of a wide range of shoppers, we also chose several budget-friendly units. Lastly, since reputable kitchen appliance brands usually manufacture more reliable products, we stuck to recognizable brands.

Our Top Picks

A separate ice maker means always having high-quality ice on hand. The best undercounter ice makers in this list are both practical and attractive, fitting seamlessly into the kitchen while producing clear, pleasant-tasting ice cubes.

Best Overall

EdgeStar 15-Inch Built-In Ice Maker

With a sleek design and flexible installation options, this ice maker from EdgeStar is a stellar pick for most homes. The standard 15-inch-wide self-contained design works in kitchens, motor homes, and home bars. This ice maker doesn’t require a drain, and it features a reversible door that opens from either direction. Its modern stainless steel finish suits many contemporary kitchens.

A mid-range ice production rate makes this ice machine suitable for most daily ice needs as well as for hosting small events. It produces up to 25 pounds of ice a day and has a 20-pound ice storage capacity. The crescent-shaped ice, one of the longer-lasting types, is attractive. An ice scoop, water line, and removable ice bin are included, making it easy to install and maintain.

Product Specs 

• Production rate: 25 pounds per day
• Storage capacity: 20 pounds
• Ice type: Crescent

Pros

• Attractive stainless steel finish is ideal for commercial and home use
• Doesn’t require a drain and produces up to 25 pounds of ice per day
• Reversible door can be adjusted to suit the user’s needs

Cons

• Lacks self-cleaning feature, which may not be ideal for some users

Get the EdgeStar undercounter ice maker at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Best Bang For The Buck

Costway Commercial Ice Machine

Producing up to 88 pounds of ice per day, the Costway commercial ice maker offers commercial ice-making capabilities at a budget-friendly price.

This ice maker has a high production rate, but it can store only 8.8 pounds of ice; however, its speedy ice production capacity may compensate for its low storage capacity. It’s an ideal choice for high-traffic settings, such as a busy household or office.

This machine produces standard ice cubes. Its internal steel construction helps maintain hygienic conditions and avoid odor absorption. A front LCD panel controls the machine, allowing users to adjust the ice-making time, the ice cube thickness, and start the self-cleaning function. Other ease-of-use features include a viewing window and interior lighting.

Product Specs 

• Production rate: 88 pounds per day
• Storage capacity: 8.8 pounds
• Ice type: Cubes

Pros

• High production rate for those who need a lot of ice; perfect for entertaining
• Self-cleaning feature removes any stuck-on residue
• Interior LED lighting for use at night or for better visibility
• Durable design can last for years of use

Cons

• Small ice storage capacity compared to similar options available
• Industrial appearance may not suit some users’ preferences

Get the Costway freestanding ice maker at Amazon.

Best Small

Whynter Stainless Steel Built-In Ice Maker

Those who need a small undercounter ice maker for a small kitchen may find the Whynter built-in ice maker to be a good option. It has a compact size of 25 inches tall by 15 inches wide by 18 inches long and weighs only 52 pounds.

This 120-watt ice maker produces 12 pounds of crescent-shaped ice cubes in 24 hours, requires no drain, and can store 6 pounds of ice. It shuts off automatically when the ice bin is full. It also comes with an ice scoop and ice bin, has one-button operation, and comes with a 9-foot-long, ¼-inch-wide food-grade water line connection integrated. All in all, this stainless steel undercounter ice machine is perfect for making the extra ice needed for a family event, barbecue, or camping trip.

Product Specs 

• Production rate: 12 pounds per day
• Storage capacity: 6 pounds
• Ice type: Crescent

Pros

• 52-pound weight makes it easy to move if necessary
• Produces 12 pounds of ice in 24 hours, and it can hold 6 pounds at a time
• Shuts off automatically when the bin is full, and an ice bin and scoop are included
• Stainless steel design construction makes it an attractive addition to interior kitchen spaces

Cons

• Not ideal for use outdoors; limited durability when exposed to the elements
• Does not produce as much ice as some comparable options

Get the Whynter undercounter ice maker at Amazon. 

Best Large Capacity

Euhomy Undercounter Commercial Ice Machine

Applications that use a lot of ice, such as restaurants or large events, need a large-capacity ice machine. The Euhomy commercial ice maker is a commercial-grade machine with a 33-pound ice storage capacity.

At up to 100 pounds of ice per day, this machine has an excellent production rate. Its durable stainless steel is made to withstand heavy everyday use. The front panel is designed so users can set a timer, run the self-cleaning cycle, adjust the ice cube size, and monitor the ice-making cycle.

Product Specs 

• Production rate: 100 pounds per day
• Storage capacity: 33 pounds
• Ice type: Cubes

Pros

• Large storage capacity for those who need to keep a lot of ice on hand
• High production rate makes it suitable for at-home or commercial use
• Adjustable ice cube size to suit multiple users’ preferences

Cons

• Gravity drainage requires installation of a suitable drain

Get the Euhomy undercounter ice maker at Amazon.

Best Wide

KitchenAid 18-Inch Automatic Ice Maker

For high ice needs and roomy kitchens, this ice maker from KitchenAid measures 18 inches across to fit into wider cabinet spaces and has excellent storage capacity to match its size.

This undercounter ice maker with drain pump helps empty water efficiently and boasts a fully flush installation. The self-cleaning cycle simplifies maintenance and keeps the insides of the ice maker hygienic and odor-free.

Producing up to 50 pounds of ice per day, this ice maker has an extra-deep storage bin that holds up to 35 pounds of ice. Its Clear Ice technology produces uniform, clean ice cubes that look attractive while keeping a drink refreshingly cool.

Product Specs 

• Production rate: 50 pounds per day
• Storage capacity: 35 pounds
• Ice type: Cubes

Pros

• 18-inch width is ideal for those who need a lot of ice production
• Extra-large ice storage bin is suitable for those who need a lot of ice on hand
• Clear Ice technology produces uniform cubes that are ideal for cocktails or drinks

Cons

• Pricey compared with other options currently available

Get the KitchenAid 18-inch undercounter ice maker at The Home Depot or Build With Ferguson.

Best Energy Star Certified

Scotsman CU50PA-1A Air Cooled Ice Machine

For those who want to help the planet (and their electric bill), an Energy Star–certified ice maker such as the Scotsman CU50PA ice maker is more energy efficient than non-certified models.

Designed for commercial settings and approved for outdoor use, this ice maker is durable. It produces up to 65 pounds of clear gourmet ice a day and has a 26-pound capacity.

Product Specs 

• Production rate: 65 pounds per day
• Storage capacity: 26 pounds
• Ice type: Gourmet

Pros

• Efficient but practical; suitable for those who enjoy entertaining
• Great production rate and storage capacity for frequent use
• Suitable for commercial or outdoor use; durable construction can withstand frequent use
• Makes gourmet ice for cocktails, drinks, coolers, and more

Cons

• Operation volume may be loud when the machine is used indoors

Get the Scotsman CU50PA undercounter ice maker at Amazon.

Best Outdoor

Ice-O-Matic Self-Contained Ice Machine

The Ice-O-Matic is an outdoor-approved nugget ice maker that’s suitable for both built-in or freestanding installation. It doesn’t require a drain, so this nugget ice machine can be used in backyard kitchens, outdoor bars, and patios.

This undercounter nugget ice maker uses Pure Ice technology to make clear, odor-free pearl (nugget) ice, which is an attractive and “chewable” ice that fits in any glass or cup. The machine produces up to 85 pounds of ice per day and has the capacity to store 22 pounds.

Product Specs 

• Production rate: 85 pounds per day
• Storage capacity: 22 pounds
• Ice type: Nugget

Pros

• Outdoor approved and durable enough to withstand most weather conditions
• Built-in or freestanding installation for versatility and ease of use
• No drain required for proper operation

Cons

• Expensive compared with other ice makers available

Get the Ice-O-Matic nugget ice maker at Amazon or Build With Ferguson.

Best For Home Bars

KitchenAid 15-Inch Automatic Ice Maker

Bartenders and drink connoisseurs prefer clear, consistent ice. With its Clear Ice technology, the KitchenAid built-in ice maker produces ice with excellent clarity in a uniform shape, making this our pick for the best ice maker for home bar use. For even better ice cubes, this machine has the option to add a filter (not included).

With a reversible door and an articulating hinge, this ice maker installs fully flush with surrounding cabinetry. This appliance holds 25 pounds of ice and can produce up to 50 pounds a day. Other attractive features include a drain pump, self-cleaning feature, and a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish.

Product Specs 

• Production rate: 50 pounds per day
• Storage capacity: 25 pounds
• Ice type: Cubes

Pros

• Clear Ice technology produces uniform cubes that are ideal for cocktails and drinks
• Stylish fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish for a sleek, sophisticated look
• Reversible door can be adjusted to suit a given user’s preference
• Can accommodate a filter if desired

Cons

• Filter not included with purchase

Get the KitchenAid 15-inch undercounter ice maker at The Home Depot.

Best Commercial

Northair Freestanding Daily Production Ice Machine

The Northair commercial ice maker boasts an excellent production rate and a roomy storage bin to meet the needs of heavy users.

With a production rate of up to 100 pounds (45 ice cubes in each 12- to 18-minute cycle), this machine creates enough standard ice cubes to cool around 800 drinks a day. Scoop large amounts of ice from the top-opening bin, which has a capacity of 33 pounds.

This ice maker comes with a water line and drain hose and has adjustable feet. An LCD panel includes controls for a timer and self-cleaning function.

Product Specs 

• Production rate: 100 pounds per day
• Storage capacity: 33 pounds
• Ice type: Cubes

Pros

• Great production rate for those who entertain frequently
• High storage capacity for convenience and added versatility
• Has a timer and self-cleaning feature for ease of use

Cons

• Less attractive appearance than some comparable models

Get the Northair freestanding ice maker at Amazon or Wayfair.

Best For Hard Water

Scotsman CU50GA Undercounter Ice Maker

To combat the effects of hard water, the Scotsman CU50GA undercounter ice maker features a water-quality sensor that detects and purges hard water to help reduce buildup and extend the time between cleanings.

At 65 pounds a day, this ice maker has a