While most refrigerators these days come with ice makers, there are times when you need more ice than what you already have, or there is not just enough space inside your freezer for more ice containers. Rather than getting disappointed at the absence of ice just when you need it, an ice maker is a good solution to consider. Ice makers are designed to provide ice without having to go through the use of those inconvenient ice trays, huge melting bags, or even having to run to a store to buy ice.
Generally, portable ice makers are categorized into two: countertop models, which are generally light and small, and built-in, which are under-the-counter models which can be placed right next to a bigger appliance, or a wine cooler. Choosing one that will fit your needs and preferences can turn out to be a challenging one, especially if you do not know where to start. To help you out, this review will list the 9 best portable ice makers in 2019.
Table of Contents
- #1. hOmeLabs Portable Ice Maker Machine for Counter Top
- #2. Frigidaire 26 Lbs Countertop Portable Ice Maker
- #3. FirstBuild Opal01 Opal Nugget Portable Ice Maker
- #4. Upgraded Aicok Portable Digital Ice Maker Machine
- #5. Hamilton Beach PIM-2-3A Portable Ice Maker
- #6. Koldfront KIM202W Ultra Compact Portable Ice Maker
- #7. Think Gizmos TG22 Counter Top Portable Ice Maker Machine
- #8. GOCOOL Stainless Steel Commercial Automatic Ice Maker Portable Freestanding Ice Machine
- #9. Della Portable Ice Maker
#1. hOmeLabs Portable Ice Maker Machine for Counter Top
This portable ice maker machine from hOmeLabs is designed to deliver its promises without requiring you to spend a lot of money. If you just want to stay within your budget, this model is a recommended option because it can produce a lot of ice fast, and is also known to operate with less noise compared with other models. It is also compact and easy to use at the same time.
This machine has the capacity to create batches of ice in just 6 to 8 minutes. This speed is good enough given its price. The ice cubes come in bullet shapes, making them ready for any type of beverage. It can make about 26 pounds of ice in a period of 24 hours, with the capacity of storing 1.5 pounds of ice at a single time.
Conclusion: The homeLabs ice maker machine is very portable, which means that it can be stored in any place, and can brought in any event or activity. It is also ideal for backyard gatherings, or any outdoor activities. No doubt that this model is well worth the cost.
Pros
• Up to 26 pounds of ice every day
• Auto shut off feature
• Quiet cooling
• Bullet shaped ice in just 6 to 8 minutes
• Safe to use
Cons
• Ice melts fast
#2. Frigidaire 26 Lbs Countertop Portable Ice Maker
Even though this portable ice maker model might seem like a regular ice maker, it actually comes with a number of interesting features that make it a very attractive option to take into consideration. For one, it is designed to complete a batch of ice in just 6 minutes. It also produces square shaped ice, instead of the usual bullet shaped ice from other models.
This ice maker is also equipped with an air-cooled compressor, which means that it should be stored in a place without any obstructions on the vented side. This should be done in order to ensure the prevention of damages caused by overheating, as it can possibly impact the lifespan of the appliance.
Conclusion: If portability is what you are looking for, this ice maker can cover your requirements quite easily. It also features a stylish and contemporary design which makes it perfect for any type of home.
Pros
• Comes with LED indicators
• Completes a batch in just 6 minutes
• About 26 pounds of ice in 24 hours
• Compact and portable design
• Reasonable cost
Cons
• Ice basket is not very big
• Some issues with reliabilty
#3. FirstBuild Opal01 Opal Nugget Portable Ice Maker
The Opal nugget ice maker from FirstBuild is often described as larger compared to other models listed here. In fact, it is larger than other appliances, such as coffee makers or even toasters. It is also not lightweight, given a weight of 44 pounds.
Despite its size and weight, the overall aesthetics is simple and pleasing. It is constructed with smooth stainless steel that across its flat surfaces, as well as rectangular chassis, which means that you will not notice its bulk. It also comes with a single, circular button that is surrounded by an attractive LED ring, glowing in different colors when communicating the status of the device.
Conclusion: What makes this ice maker unique is the fact that it comes with uniquely advanced features. In fact, it can be connected to your mobile phone or tablet through Bluetooth, and control its operation using a mobile app.
Pros
• Does not require any dedicated water line
• Makes lots of ice in one batch
• Pleasing aesthetics
• Produces nugget ice
Cons
• Quite expensive
• Larger than other models
#4. Upgraded Aicok Portable Digital Ice Maker Machine
If you are looking for a portable ice maker that can produce a lot of ice for a big gathering or an event, no doubt that this model from Aicok is a good option to take into consideration. It is particularly huge in terms of size and design, which means that you also need a good amount of space for storing this model.
This ice maker machine can produce up to 26 pounds of ice every day, as well as 9 pieces of ice in a batch in just 10 minutes. It features a 2 quart water capacity which assures the volume of ice per cycle. It also comes with a built-in LED control panel, as well as a timer for overall ease of use.
Conclusion: The Aicok portable ice maker is applicable for various uses, including home, office, as well as outdoors. It comes with advanced features that make it a standout option to consider. For example, it features an intelligence panel which allows you to see the entire condition quite clearly, and a panoramic view of the window.
Pros
• ETL approved product
• Designed for mass production of ice
• Up to 26 pounds ice in 24 hours
• Big capacity
• LED control panel
Cons
• Requires space for storage
#5. Hamilton Beach PIM-2-3A Portable Ice Maker
The Hamilton Beach PIM-2-3A Portable Ice Maker is the best appliance to use if you need to make sure that your drinks stay cool and refreshing especially during summer day. It has the capacity to produce up to 9 ice cubes in every 7 minutes, totaling to up to 26 pounds of ice every day.
This model also features a high efficiency compressor which is designed for a longer lifespan, as well as quiet operation. Other features include three LED indicators that will let you know when the basket is already full, when you need to add more water, or when the machine is already making ice.
Conclusion: The Hamilton Beach PIM 2-3A portable ice maker is no doubt the best device that you can get if you need a steady supply of ice whenever you are preparing for a gathering or an event with your loved ones. Since it comes in a sleek design, it easy matches any décor you have at home.
Pros
• Options to choose the size of the ice
• LED indicators included
• Portable ice maker
• Easy operation
• Stylish and elegant design
#6. Koldfront KIM202W Ultra Compact Portable Ice Maker
The KIM202W portable ice maker from Koldfront is a reliable portable ice maker which is suitable for RVs, camping, boats and cabins. Just like all similar models, it is very important to ensure that you have a nearby outlet ready. It is also equipped with some interesting features for its price.
The primary feature offered by this model is portability. This means that you can bring this machine anywhere it will not consume too much space. It is perfect for any kitchen, as it has the capacity to produce up to 26 pounds every day. You can choose the size of the bullet shaped cubes.
Conclusion: Taking into consideration the features that you can expect in comparison to its price there is no doubt that this model is a good option to remember. It is reliable, and performing, while being very compact at the same time.
Pros
• Up to 26 pounds ice every day
• Option to choose between 2 sizes of ice cubes
• No drain required
• A batch of ice is completed in just 10 minutes
• Can store up to 1.5 pounds of ice at a time
Cons
• Some issue with long term durability
#7. Think Gizmos TG22 Counter Top Portable Ice Maker Machine
This TG22 model from Think Gizmos is considered as one of the fastest machines that you will ever find. As a matter of fact, it can produce a whole batch of ice in just 6 minutes or about 26 lbs of ice per 24h. One thing you may notice, however, is that it costs more compared to other models, but it is definitely endowed with premium features, such as the option to choose from three different ice cube sizes.
In terms of design, you will notice that this machine comes with a sturdy and elegant construction. It is made out of sleek stainless steel and ABS, which means that it is not just elegant to look out but is also tough.
Conclusion: The Think Gizmos TG22 model is designed primarily for residential homes. However, because of its compact and portable design, you can bring it with you elsewhere, provided that you have a nearby outlet.
Pros
• Reliable design and performance
• Quick ice making process
• 3 options for ice cube sizes
• Easy to use
• Ice scoop included
Cons
• Issues with machine durabilty
#8. GOCOOL Stainless Steel Commercial Automatic Ice Maker Portable Freestanding Ice Machine
This automatic ice maker is designed primarily for commercial use. It is designed in cube shape, with its flat front panel and door made of stainless steel, adding to its elegant appearance. It is fully automatic in nature, making it easy to use.
There is also an indicator located in its operation board, turning on depending on the need. This model uses a high efficient compressor, making it capable to make ice faster (58 lbs/24h) and with much lower noise and power consumption.
Conclusion: This commercial ice maker machine from Costway is constructed using odorless and colorless stainless steel and plastic, which means that it is safe for humans, and is far more durable compared to others. It is designed for use at home, restaurants or other commercial locations.
Pros
• Automatic shutdown
• Good heat dissipation
• High efficient compressor
• Reliable operations
• Rapid cooling
Cons
• Quite noisy
#9. Della Portable Ice Maker
This portable ice maker is designed to produce up to 26 pound of ice every day, with the capacity to hold up to 1.8 liters of water that is perfect for a small kitchen. You can choose from two sizes of these bullet-shaped cubes, or 9 pieces in a batch, completed in just 6 minutes.
Conclusion: If budget is a primary consideration when deciding for an ice maker to purchase, the Della portable ice maker is a good choice to consider. This model is designed to produce ice cubes easily, without requiring you to shell out a huge amount of money.
Pros
• Relatively affordable
• Produces up to 26 pounds every day
• Removable tray included
• Easy push button controls
• Compact design
Cons
• Somewhat noisy
Conclusion
Regardless of your actual needs, or preferences, you can be assured that the abovementioned portable ice maker models will get you what you need – the right amount of ice, just when you need them! Still, another person’s need may not exactly be what you need, which is why there is no single model that can fit everybody. For this reason, it is highly recommended that you identify the features that you want to look for in an ice maker, and start making your comparison from there. In this way, you can come up with the best option that will particularly cater to your requirements.
* You may want to make shaved ice during family or friend gathering, please check the ice cream makers for your party time.
