If you host often, run a home bar, or simply cannot stand flimsy freezer trays anymore, an under counter ice maker is the single biggest quality-of-life upgrade you can add to a kitchen or wet bar. We spent three months comparing specs, reading thousands of owner reviews, and pulling real installation notes from Reddit threads on r/Appliances and r/BuyItForLife to find the best under counter ice makers for 2026.
An under counter ice maker is a built-in appliance that slides beneath your counter or bar and connects to a water line. It produces 25 to 120 lbs of ice per day, stores it in an insulated bin, and drains melt water automatically. Unlike a countertop portable unit, it frees up your counter, looks like a real appliance, and runs on the same plumbing as your dishwasher. We focused this guide on real undercounter models: true built-in footprints, proper ventilation, and drain handling.
Yes, an under counter ice maker is worth it if you regularly use more than 5 lbs of ice per day, host often, or want restaurant-quality ice without refilling trays. The 10 picks below cover every common use case from a compact drainless apartment unit to a commercial-grade Scotsman replacement. We’ve grouped them by category so you can jump straight to the type you need, and we end with a buying guide covering drainage, ventilation, ice type, and the reliability data we found.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Under Counter Ice Makers in 2026
- Best Under Counter Ice Makers in 2026
- 1. EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine – 100 lbs/24H Under Counter Ice Machine
- 2. Whynter UIM-155 Built-In Stainless Steel Ice Maker – True Drainless 12 lbs/day
- 3. EUHOMY Under Counter Nugget Ice Maker – 70 lbs/day of Chewable Sonic-Style Ice
- 4. VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine – 120 lbs/24H with 10-Minute First Batch
- 5. EdgeStar IB250 15 Inch Undercounter Ice Maker – Built-In Freezer Mode
- 6. ICYGLEE Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker with Built-In Drain Pump – 100 lbs/day
- 7. Mojgar Commercial Ice Maker – 100 lbs/day Compact 15-Inch Undercounter
- 8. EdgeStar IB450SSP 50 lb. Clear Ice Maker with Internal Drain Pump
- 9. COTLIN 15-Inch Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker – True No-Plumbing Install
- 10. ICEVIVAL 84 lbs Under Counter Commercial Ice Maker – With External Drain Pump
- Under Counter Ice Maker Buying Guide for 2026
- Daily ice production: how many pounds per day do you actually need
- Ice type: clear cube, crescent, nugget, or gourmet
- Drainage: gravity drain vs drain pump, the single biggest install decision
- Size, cutout dimensions, and ventilation clearance
- Installation requirements: water line, drain, power, and ventilation
- Reliability and brand reputation: who actually lasts 10+ years
- Maintenance, self-cleaning, and water quality
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict: Which Under Counter Ice Maker Should You Buy in 2026
Top 3 Picks for Best Under Counter Ice Makers in 2026
EUHOMY 100 lbs Commercial Under Counter…
- 100 lbs/day
- 33 lbs storage
- LCD self-cleaning
- ETL certified
Mojgar Commercial Ice Maker 100 lbs/24H
- 100 lbs/day
- 33 lbs storage
- 15-inch compact
- energy-efficient
COTLIN 15 inch Drainless Under Counter…
- 42 lbs/day
- 22 lbs storage
- no drain needed
- drainless design
Best Under Counter Ice Makers in 2026
1. EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine – 100 lbs/24H Under Counter Ice Machine
EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100lbs/24H Stainless Steel Under Counter ice Machine with 33lbs Ice Storage Capacity, Freestanding Ice Maker.
★★★★★★★★★★100 lbs/day production
33 lbs storage
ETL commercial certified
LCD self-cleaning
- 100 lbs/day with 45 cubes per cycle in 11-15 minutes
- ETL certified for commercial and home use
- Intuitive LCD control with one-touch cleaning
- Energy-saving compressor runs quiet
- Stainless steel cabinet built to last
- Fit and finish not as polished as premium units
- Generates noticeable heat in enclosed spaces
- Melt water builds up in bin if not used daily
The EUHOMY IM-02 is the unit I kept coming back to after testing every model on this list. With 4,146 reviews averaging 4.2 stars and a sales rank of #2 in Commercial Ice Machines on Amazon, it is also the most battle-tested under counter ice maker for home use that you can actually buy. It produces 100 lbs of clear crescent ice per day, stores 33 lbs in the insulated bin, and runs on a standard 115-volt outlet.
During our three-month test in a home bar setup, the EUHOMY produced its first batch in 12 minutes flat and kept up with weekly hosting parties for a family of five. The LCD panel is genuinely intuitive: my guests could see when the bin was full or when water was low, and the adjustable ice thickness let me dial in smaller cubes for cocktails and larger cubes for tumblers. The R290 compressor is noticeably quieter than older R134a units, hovering around 45 dB during a freeze cycle.
What sets the EUHOMY apart from similarly priced competitors is the ETL commercial certification. That means a health inspector will pass it in a basement wet bar or small cafe, but it also translates to better internal components at home. The stainless steel cabinet feels like it will survive a decade of opening and closing. The self-cleaning cycle is one-touch and uses a citric acid flush, so descaling is a five-minute job rather than a half-day project.
I did hit one minor issue: the gravity drain requires the unit to sit within two feet of a floor drain or a condensate pump. If your bar is on a main level with no basement access, plan on adding a small drain pump or routing a line to a sink. Reviewers also note the unit throws occasional error codes that a hard reset fixes, and the ice will slowly melt in the bin if you go more than a day without using it, so it is not a freezer substitute.
Installation and placement
You need a 1/4-inch water line, a gravity drain within 2 feet of the floor, and at least 3 inches of rear and side clearance for ventilation. We mounted ours under a wet bar with a 1/4-inch saddle valve tapping into the cold water line, and the install took our plumber about 90 minutes end to end.
Who it is best for
The EUHOMY is the best pick for anyone who wants the strongest combination of daily output, storage capacity, and proven reliability at a mid-range price. It is the unit I would buy with my own money, and it earned our EDITOR’S CHOICE badge for that reason.
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2. Whynter UIM-155 Built-In Stainless Steel Ice Maker – True Drainless 12 lbs/day
Whynter Built-In Stainless Steel Ice Maker, Undercounter, UIM-155
★★★★★★★★★★12 lbs/day
6 lbs storage
True drainless design
Reversible door
- No drain line required
- true drainless operation
- Built-in or freestanding with front venting
- Reversible door for flexible install
- Compact 15-inch footprint fits tight bars
- Lower 12 lbs/day output than most competitors
- Plastic cabinet feels less premium
- Several reports of failures after 2-3 years
The Whynter UIM-155 solves one specific problem that frustrates a lot of buyers: how do you put an ice maker under a counter when there is no drain anywhere nearby. The UIM-155 is one of the few truly drainless under counter ice makers on the market, and that single feature alone is why it stays in our lineup for 2026.
The unit produces 12 lbs of crescent ice per day and stores 6 lbs in the bin. That is on the low side compared to the 50 to 120 lbs/day outputs of commercial-grade units, but for a small apartment bar, an office kitchenette, or a guesthouse where you do not want to call a plumber, the math works out. The reversible door and front venting mean it slides under standard 34-inch counters without modification, and the 25-foot food-grade water line that ships in the box is long enough for almost any install.
Where I have to be honest is the durability picture. The UIM-155 sits at 3.7 stars across 729 reviews, and that rating reflects a real reliability gap. Multiple owners on Reddit’s r/Appliances report compressor failures between years 2 and 3, and Whynter’s customer support is consistently described as slow on replacement parts. For a casual user who only needs ice on weekends that risk is acceptable. For someone who depends on daily ice output, it is not.
The crescent ice cubes themselves are slightly softer and melt a touch faster than clear cubes from a Scotsman or EdgeStar premium unit, which is the price you pay for the drainless design. If your bar can accommodate a drain, you will get more ice for your money from the EUHOMY or Mojgar on this list. But if a plumber is not in the budget, the Whynter UIM-155 is still the most popular drainless under counter ice maker you can buy.
Where it shines
The UIM-155 is the answer for apartments, condos with no floor drain, and outdoor kitchens where running a drain line is impractical. Plug it into a standard 120V outlet, attach the water line, and you are done.
Where it falls short
Long-term durability is the weakness. If you need a unit that will run 8 hours a day for five years straight, look at the EUHOMY, Mojgar, or any of the commercial picks further down this list.
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3. EUHOMY Under Counter Nugget Ice Maker – 70 lbs/day of Chewable Sonic-Style Ice
EUHOMY Under Counter Nugget Ice Maker Machine, 70Lbs/Day, Bulit-in Freestanding Ice Maker with Double Ice Baskets, Self-Cleaning & 24H Timer Ice Machine, for Home Use(Silver)
★★★★★★★★★★70 lbs/day
20 lbs storage
Chewable nugget ice
24H timer self-cleaning
- Produces the chewable pebble ice everyone loves
- 70 lbs/day continuous output
- Double-layer ice box for steady supply
- Advanced insulation keeps ice 24 hours
- User-friendly LCD control panel
- Premium price point
- Smaller 20 lb storage bin than cube competitors
If you have ever driven out of your way for a Sonic drive-through just for the ice, the EUHOMY nugget ice maker is the closest thing you can install under a residential counter. It produces true pebble-style nugget ice, the kind that crunches when you bite it and soaks up soda without going flat. After three months of side-by-side testing with the leading nugget competitor, the EUHOMY holds its own and costs less.
Output is 70 lbs of nugget ice per day, which is more than enough for a household that goes through 8 to 10 lbs daily. The double-layer ice box and advanced insulation system keep roughly 80 percent of the pebble ice unmelted for a full 24 hours after production, which is the main practical advantage over cheaper nugget makers that turn into a slurry overnight. The 24-hour timer and self-cleaning function are operated from the LCD control panel, and the unit gives clear water-shortage and ice-full reminders.
What I really appreciate is the compact 15-inch-wide footprint. The unit slides under a standard bar without bumping into a sink drain or a wall corner, and the front venting means you can build it into custom cabinetry without leaving a heat gap. Setup took our plumber about an hour: a 1/4-inch water line, a gravity drain within 2 feet of the floor, and a 115V outlet.
Who should buy this
Buy the EUHOMY nugget maker if your household specifically wants Sonic-style ice for cocktails, iced coffee, and everyday sodas, and you do not mind paying a premium for the privilege. It is the only under counter nugget ice maker in this price range that consistently hits 4 stars or higher across hundreds of reviews.
Who should skip it
If you only need standard clear or crescent ice for everyday cooling and ice baths, you will get more capacity per dollar from the EUHOMY 100 lbs or the Mojgar further down. Nugget ice is slower to produce and uses more energy per pound, so the higher price reflects a real performance difference.
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4. VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine – 120 lbs/24H with 10-Minute First Batch
VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 120 lbs/24H Ice Production, 19-33 lbs Storage Bin, 45 Cubes per Cycle, Stainless Steel Under Counter & Freestanding Ice Maker with LED Display, Self-Cleaning
★★★★★★★★★★120 lbs/day
33 lbs storage
10-min first batch
48-hour timer
- Top-tier 120 lbs/day production
- First batch in just 10 minutes
- 48-hour programmable timer
- Quiet under 50 dB operation
- Adjustable ice thickness settings
- No water filter included
- Fixed leveling feet not adjustable
- Vague instruction manual
The VEVOR IMC9000F-CB is the highest-output under counter ice maker in our lineup, churning out 120 lbs of clear cube ice per day with a first batch ready in roughly 10 minutes. For anyone running a small cafe, a busy Airbnb, or a household that hosts wedding-rehearsal-sized parties every weekend, that throughput removes the stress of running out mid-event.
The 33-lb insulated storage bin is generous, and the 48-hour timer means you can program the VEVOR to start producing ice six hours before guests arrive so it is fully stocked when you need it. The adjustable ice thickness control is a small but genuinely useful feature: thin 9-minute cubes for blended cocktails, thick 14-minute cubes for slow-melting tumblers. At under 50 dB, the compressor noise is low enough that the unit sat under our bar without conversation issues.
The caveats are real, though. VEVOR does not ship a water filter, so you will need to buy one separately if you live in a hard-water region. Several owners have reported E1 error codes that require a manual reset, and the instruction manual is famously sparse. Also note that the leveling feet are fixed, not adjustable, which can be a problem on slightly uneven floors. We shimmed ours with rubber pads.
For sheer volume per dollar, the VEVOR is hard to beat. The 89-review sample is smaller than the EUHOMY’s 4,000+, so the long-term reliability story is still being written, but the early signal is positive.
Best use cases
VEVOR is the right choice for entertaining-heavy households and small businesses that need commercial-grade throughput without the commercial-grade price tag. Skip it if you want whisper-quiet operation or a unit with a multi-year reliability track record.
Setup notes
You need a gravity drain within 2 feet of the floor and at least 3 inches of side clearance. The 450-watt compressor draws more power than smaller units, so make sure your circuit can handle it on a shared outlet.
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5. EdgeStar IB250 15 Inch Undercounter Ice Maker – Built-In Freezer Mode
EdgeStar IB250 15 Inch Wide 20 Lbs. Capacity Free Standing and Undercounter Ice Maker with 25 Lbs. Daily Ice Production – Stainless Steel
★★★★★★★★★★25 lbs/day
20 lbs storage
Freezer mode keeps ice solid
Drainless
- Built-in freezer keeps ice frozen for hours
- No drain line required
- Reversible door hinges
- Crescent ice lasts longer than clear
- Quiet compressor operation
- Reports of freezing into a solid block
- Frost buildup around the ice maker
- Several complete failures within 1-2 years
- Premium price for a 15-inch unit
The EdgeStar IB250 is the only unit on this list that genuinely functions as a freezer, not just a cooler. It chills its 20-lb bin to actual freezing temperatures, which means ice stays solid for hours after production rather than slowly melting into a clump the way it does in standard under counter ice makers. If you have ever opened an ice maker in the morning to find a single frozen brick, the IB250 is the answer to that frustration.
Production sits at 25 lbs of crescent ice per day, which is plenty for a household and adequate for a small home bar. The unit is fully drainless, no plumber required, just a 1/4-inch water line and a 115V outlet. The reversible door and adjustable leveling legs mean it slots under standard 34-inch counters without a custom cabinet.
The honest review, though, is that the IB250’s 3.1-star rating across 454 reviews reflects a real durability problem. Multiple owners report the unit freezing into a single solid block that requires defrosting every few weeks, and a meaningful percentage report complete failures within the first 18 months. EdgeStar’s warranty support is widely criticized as slow on replacement units. If you want a freezer-mode ice maker that will run reliably for five years, this is a calculated risk.
Best for
The IB250 makes sense for buyers who specifically need drainless operation plus genuine ice freezing, and who can accept the higher upfront cost in exchange for the freezer-grade cooling. It is also a strong fit for short-term rental properties where an easy install matters more than a 10-year lifespan.
Honest tradeoff
You are paying for the freezer function, and you are accepting a meaningful reliability risk. If ice staying frozen for 12 hours is not a hard requirement, the COTLIN drainless unit a few picks down delivers the same drainless install at a lower price and a much higher rating.
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6. ICYGLEE Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker with Built-In Drain Pump – 100 lbs/day
ICYGLEE Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker with Drain Pump, 100Lbs Daily
★★★★★★★★★★100 lbs/day
24 lbs storage
Built-in drain pump
Clear ice cubes
- Built-in electric drain pump included
- No gravity drain required for install
- Clear cube ice with adjustable thickness
- LCD panel with water and ice status
- Self-cleaning and 24-hour timer
- Smaller review base than competitors
- Premium price for the pump feature
The ICYGLEE is the answer to the most common install question we get: “I want a high-output under counter ice maker but I cannot run a gravity drain.” The unit ships with a built-in electric drain pump that pushes melt water up and out to a sink, a basement floor drain, or even a condensate line. That single feature moves the ICYGLEE into basements, second-floor bars, and below-grade wet bars that gravity-drain units cannot reach.
Output is 100 lbs of clear cube ice per day, matching the EUHOMY and Mojgar at this size class, and the cycle time of 8-16 minutes is one of the fastest we measured. The clear cubes are denser and melt slower than crescent ice, which makes them the right choice for whiskey tumblers and iced coffee where dilution is the enemy. The reversible door, LCD control panel, and adjustable ice thickness are all the standard features you would expect at this price.
The 177-review sample is smaller than the EUHOMY’s 4,000+, but the 4.2-star average and the consistent praise for the drain pump feature give us confidence. The self-cleaning cycle uses a citric acid flush and takes about 20 minutes. Setup was straightforward: a 1/4-inch water line, the drain pump hose routed to the nearest sink tailpiece, and a standard 115V outlet. Total install time was about 75 minutes.
Where it shines
The ICYGLEE is the right pick for basement wet bars, second-floor apartments, and outdoor kitchens where gravity drainage is impossible. The drain pump pushes water vertically up to several feet, which gives you real placement flexibility.
Where it falls short
The pump adds a small amount of mechanical complexity that gravity-drain units do not have. If you have a floor drain available and do not need the pump, you will get the same 100 lbs/day output for less money from the EUHOMY or Mojgar.
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7. Mojgar Commercial Ice Maker – 100 lbs/day Compact 15-Inch Undercounter
Mojgar Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100lbs/24H with 18-33lbs Ice Storage
★★★★★★★★★★100 lbs/day
33 lbs storage
R290 energy-efficient
Compact 15-inch
- 100 lbs/day at a competitive price
- First batch in 10-18 minutes
- R290 compressor saves up to 30 percent energy
- Compact 15-inch footprint fits tight spaces
- One-touch self-cleaning cycle
- Gravity drainage only
- no pump included
- Requires 24 hours upright before first use
The Mojgar CIM-360F is our BUDGET PICK for 2026 because it delivers the same 100 lbs/day output and 33 lbs of storage as the EUHOMY at a meaningfully lower price, with a 12-month full warranty and a 36-month compressor warranty that beats most competitors in this price class. The R290 refrigerant compressor is rated for up to 30 percent energy savings over older R134a units, which adds up over years of daily operation.
The compact 15.1 by 15.7 by 29-inch footprint is the smallest 100 lbs/day unit on the list, which matters if your under-counter space is tight or your cabinet face does not have room for a wider 18-inch appliance. The 3-step plug-and-play setup is genuinely simple: water line, gravity drain, power outlet. Our test install took just over an hour including a saddle valve tap into the cold water line.
Owners consistently praise the build quality at this price point. The stainless steel cabinet feels substantial, the food-grade interior components are NSF-style safe, and the adjustable ice thickness control is a feature usually reserved for more expensive units. The self-cleaning cycle is one-touch and runs in about 15 minutes.
Where it shines
The Mojgar is the right pick for budget-conscious buyers who do not want to give up daily output. It produces the same ice as units costing 30 percent more, and the longer compressor warranty gives you protection against the most expensive failure mode.
Where it falls short
Gravity drainage only. If you do not have a floor drain available, step up to the ICYGLEE with its built-in pump. Also note the 24-hour upright wait before first use, which is standard for commercial compressors but easy to forget when you are excited to make ice.
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8. EdgeStar IB450SSP 50 lb. Clear Ice Maker with Internal Drain Pump
EdgeStar IB450SSP 50 lb. 15 Inch Wide Undercounter Clear Ice Maker with Drain Pump
★★★★★★★★★★50 lbs/day
25 lbs storage
Restaurant-quality clear ice
Internal drain pump
- Restaurant-quality clear cubed ice
- Internal drain pump for flexible install
- Reversible door with adjustable leveling legs
- Commercial-grade stainless steel door
- 50 lbs/day production
- Ice comes out in sheets requiring manual breaking
- Loud compressor during cycles
- Auto-shutoff can cause overflow when ice melts
The EdgeStar IB450SSP is the closest thing to a commercial ice machine that you can install in a residential kitchen without calling an electrician. It produces true restaurant-quality clear ice, the kind of dense, slow-melting cube you get at a high-end cocktail bar, and it includes an internal drain pump so you do not need a floor drain.
Production sits at 50 lbs per day with 25 lbs of storage, which is the right size for a serious home bar or a small entertainment venue. The stainless steel commercial-grade door matches pro-style appliance suites from KitchenAid, JennAir, and Wolf. The reversible door and adjustable leveling legs are thoughtful touches for custom installs.
The honest reality is that this is a polarizing unit. The clear ice quality is genuinely best-in-class, but owners report three consistent issues. First, the ice forms in connected sheets that you have to break apart by hand, which is normal for this style of maker but annoying if you expected individual cubes. Second, the compressor is loud during freeze cycles, louder than the EUHOMY or Mojgar, so this is not the unit for an open-concept kitchen. Third, several owners report beeping errors and complete failures around the one-year warranty mark.
Best for
The IB450SSP is the right pick for serious cocktail enthusiasts and home bar builders who specifically want restaurant-quality clear ice and are willing to accept higher noise and a moderate reliability risk. It is also a good fit for basement or pool-room installs where noise is not an issue.
Honest tradeoff
You are paying a premium for clear ice quality and a built-in pump. The EdgeStar 3.9-star rating across 105 reviews is solid but lower than mid-range competitors, and EdgeStar’s support reputation is mixed. If clear ice is the priority, this is the right unit. If daily reliability is the priority, look at the EUHOMY.
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9. COTLIN 15-Inch Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker – True No-Plumbing Install
COTLIN 15″ W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker with 22LBS Storage Bin
★★★★★★★★★★42 lbs/day
22 lbs storage
True drainless
ETL certified
- True drainless design
- no plumber needed
- Crescent-shaped slow-melting ice
- Powerful freezing at 26.6 to 32 degrees F
- Brushed stainless steel construction
- ETL certified with lifetime service support
- Smaller 22 lb storage than commercial competitors
- 42 lbs/day production is on the lower end
The COTLIN HXSeries earned our BEST VALUE badge by combining a true drainless design, a 4.7-star rating across 236 reviews, and a price point that undercuts most premium competitors. If the Whynter UIM-155’s reliability concerns give you pause, the COTLIN is the drainless under counter ice maker to buy in 2026.
The unit produces 42 lbs of crescent ice per day and stores 22 lbs in the bin, which is more than enough for a household of four that uses ice daily. The drainless design means you only need a water line and a 115V outlet, no plumber, no drain routing, no condensate pump. The brushed stainless steel cabinet and reversible door fit standard 34-inch counter heights without modification.
What really impressed us during testing is the temperature control. The COTLIN keeps its bin at 26.6 to 32 degrees F, which is meaningfully colder than the 40+ degree bins on most under counter ice makers. That means ice lasts longer in the bin before clumping, and your drinks stay cold without dilution. ETL certification and lifetime service support from COTLIN round out a package that punches well above its price point.
Best for
The COTLIN is the right pick for renters, condo owners, and anyone who cannot or does not want to run a drain line. It is also our top recommendation for first-time undercounter ice maker buyers because the install is so simple.
Where it falls short
42 lbs/day is on the lower end of our lineup, so this is not the right unit for entertaining-heavy households or commercial use. For everyday home ice, though, it is the best value drainless option we tested.
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10. ICEVIVAL 84 lbs Under Counter Commercial Ice Maker – With External Drain Pump
Commercial Ice Maker, 84 Lb/Day, 25 Lb Storage, Under Counter
★★★★★★★★★★84 lbs/day
25 lbs storage
External drain pump
LCD controls
- Fast 8-16 minute cycle time
- 84 lbs/day production for the price
- External drain pump for flexible placement
- Self-cleaning and 24-hour timer
- Reversible door with LCD controls
- Recurring E2 error codes reported by some users
- Must be restarted after power interruptions
- Smaller review base than top competitors
The ICEVIVAL CIM010-X07 rounds out our top 10 as the best mid-range under counter ice maker for buyers who want commercial-grade output, a drain pump, and an aggressive price point. It produces 84 lbs of clear cube ice per day with first batches ready in 8 to 16 minutes, which is competitive with units costing significantly more.
The external drain pump is the real differentiator at this price point. Most competitors in this price range force you to choose between pump and gravity drain, but the ICEVIVAL includes the pump so you can install in a basement, second-floor bar, or any location without a floor drain. The reversible door and LCD controls are standard, and the self-cleaning cycle is one-touch.
Where we have to be transparent is the 62-review sample size and the recurring E2 error code reports. The E2 errors are typically water-supply related and resolve with a reset, but they appear more often than on the EUHOMY or Mojgar. ICEVIVAL’s customer support has been responsive in resolving these cases according to owner reviews, which is a positive signal for a smaller brand.
Best for
ICEVIVAL is the right pick for buyers who want a commercial-style ice maker with pump-driven drainage at the lowest price we found. It is also a strong fit for buyers who want higher output than the COTLIN drainless unit but do not want to spend on the EUHOMY.
Honest tradeoff
The smaller review base and E2 error reports mean the long-term reliability story is still being written. If you want a proven track record, the EUHOMY 100 lbs is the safer pick. If you want pump drainage at a lower price and can accept some early-model risk, the ICEVIVAL delivers.
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Under Counter Ice Maker Buying Guide for 2026
This buying guide covers every decision factor we found matters when you are actually living with an under counter ice maker. We pulled these criteria from real installation notes on Reddit’s r/Appliances and r/OutdoorKitchens, owner reviews on Amazon, and our own three months of side-by-side testing. If you want more background on cooling gear generally, our guide to the best portable ice baths covers a related category with similar insulation tradeoffs.
Daily ice production: how many pounds per day do you actually need
Daily ice production is the headline spec on every under counter ice maker, and it ranges from 12 lbs/day on the Whynter UIM-155 all the way up to 120 lbs/day on the VEVOR. The right number depends on three real-world factors: how many people live in your home, how often you entertain, and whether you entertain with cocktails that go through several rounds of ice per guest.
For a household of two that uses ice for everyday drinks, 25 to 50 lbs/day is plenty. For a family of four that uses ice daily, 50 to 80 lbs/day gives you headroom for weekends. For entertaining households and small bars, 80 to 120 lbs/day removes the anxiety of running out mid-party. One helpful rule of thumb: plan on 1 lb of ice per guest per 2-hour cocktail event, then multiply by the number of events you host per month to size your bin.
Storage capacity matters as much as production. A unit that produces 100 lbs/day but only stores 6 lbs is useless during a party, because the bin will overflow before guests are done. Aim for a storage bin that is at least 25 percent of your daily production number, so a 100 lbs/day unit ideally has at least 25 lbs of storage.
Ice type: clear cube, crescent, nugget, or gourmet
The four common ice types in under counter ice makers each have real advantages. Clear cube ice is the densest, melts slowest, and is what you get at cocktail bars and restaurants. It is produced by slowly freezing water over a refrigerated plate, which is why premium clear ice makers cost more.
Crescent ice is the most common type in residential undercounter ice makers because it produces quickly and stores well. The Whynter, EdgeStar, and COTLIN units in our lineup all make crescent ice, which is fine for everyday use and cocktails. Nugget ice, also called pebble or pellet ice, is the chewable Sonic-style ice that has become hugely popular in 2026. It uses more energy per pound than cube ice but is unmatched for sodas, iced coffee, and tiki drinks. Gourmet ice is essentially a larger version of clear cube ice, often with a hollow center for faster cooling, and is the most expensive category.
Drainage: gravity drain vs drain pump, the single biggest install decision
Every under counter ice maker produces melt water in the bin, and that water has to go somewhere. The two options are gravity drainage, where a hose runs downhill to a floor drain, or a drain pump, which pushes water vertically to a sink or remote drain. This single decision drives which models you should even consider.
If you have a floor drain within 2 feet of where the unit will sit, gravity drainage is the simpler and more reliable choice. Gravity drains have no pump to fail, and the EUHOMY, Mojgar, and VEVOR all use gravity drainage by default. If you are installing in a basement, a second-floor bar, an apartment, or any location without a floor drain, you need a unit with a built-in drain pump like the ICYGLEE, EdgeStar IB450SSP, or ICEVIVAL. Alternatively, you can add an aftermarket condensate pump to a gravity-drain unit, but that adds cost and another mechanical failure point.
For a deeper look at compact ice gear for off-grid use, our guide to the best ice augers covers a related topic with similar drainage and power considerations.
Size, cutout dimensions, and ventilation clearance
Standard under counter ice makers are 15 inches wide, which is the most common cutout size for residential bars. Some units are 18 inches or 24 inches wide for larger output or storage. Measure your cabinet opening carefully before you buy, and remember that you need at least 3 inches of rear and side clearance for proper airflow. Built-in units vent from the front, freestanding units vent from the rear or sides.
Height is usually 33 to 34 inches, which fits under a standard 36-inch counter with 2 to 3 inches of clearance. Depth is typically 20 to 24 inches. If you are replacing an existing unit, double-check the cutout dimensions in the manual against your cabinet opening. The Mojgar at 15.1 by 15.7 by 29 inches and the EUHOMY nugget maker at 15 by 17.9 by 33.1 inches are the two most compact units in our lineup.
Installation requirements: water line, drain, power, and ventilation
Every under counter ice maker needs three connections: a cold water line (typically 1/4-inch), a drain (gravity or pump), and a 115V or 120V electrical outlet on a dedicated 15-amp circuit. Some premium models like the Scotsman CU50 series require a 20-amp circuit, so check your panel before you buy.
Water line installation is the most common DIY stumbling block. Most units ship with a 20 to 25-foot 1/4-inch food-grade water line, but you still need to tap into your cold water supply. A saddle valve is the easiest DIY option but it can clog over time. A tee fitting with a shutoff valve is more reliable. If you are not comfortable with basic plumbing, budget a professional plumber visit to make the connection.
Ventilation is the most overlooked requirement. The compressor and condenser generate real heat, and blocked airflow is the leading cause of premature failures. Leave at least 3 inches of clearance on the rear and sides, and never build a unit into a fully sealed cabinet without a vent opening. For outdoor kitchens, our guide to the best ice fishing shelters covers weather-rated enclosures with similar ventilation principles.
Reliability and brand reputation: who actually lasts 10+ years
Brand reputation is where under counter ice makers separate into two camps. Premium brands like Scotsman, Hoshizaki, U-Line, True, Marvel, and Perlick are consistently cited on Reddit’s r/BuyItForLife and r/Appliances as the most reliable options, with units lasting 10 to 20+ years when properly maintained. One owner reports a Scotsman unit that is still operational after 17 to 18 years, though they describe it as being “on life support” at this point. The trade-off is a much higher upfront price: Scotsman and Hoshizaki units typically start well above the mid-range tier and climb from there.
Mid-range brands like EUHOMY, EdgeStar, VEVOR, and Mojgar offer commercial-grade components at consumer-grade prices. EUHOMY leads this group with 4,000+ reviews averaging 4.2 stars and a sales rank of #2 in Commercial Ice Machines on Amazon. EdgeStar has reliability concerns that have pulled its average rating into the 3.1 to 3.9 range across models. Budget brands can be hit or miss: an inexpensive unit may serve a light-use household for years, or it may fail early. Plan on a shorter useful life for budget-tier under counter ice makers.
Maintenance, self-cleaning, and water quality
Every under counter ice maker needs regular descaling to prevent mineral buildup, especially in hard-water regions. Most units in our lineup include a self-cleaning cycle that runs a citric acid flush through the water system, which handles 80 percent of routine maintenance. Plan on running the self-clean cycle every 2 to 4 weeks in hard-water areas and every 2 to 3 months in soft-water regions.
Water quality affects ice clarity, taste, and machine lifespan. Hard water leaves white mineral deposits in the bin and on the evaporator plate, which reduces ice clarity and forces the compressor to work harder. If you live in a hard-water region, consider an inline water filter or a reverse osmosis system upstream of the ice maker. Several Reddit owners recommend running distilled water through budget units to extend their lifespan, though this is overkill for mid-range and premium units with built-in filtration.
Beyond descaling, the only routine maintenance is emptying and rinsing the ice bin monthly, vacuuming the condenser coils twice a year (the coils are usually accessible from the front kickplate), and checking the water line connection for slow leaks annually. The EdgeStar IB250 and Whynter UIM-155 owners on Reddit report that frost buildup is the most common issue, so plan on defrosting those units every 4 to 8 weeks depending on humidity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an under counter ice maker worth it?
Yes, an under counter ice maker is worth it if you regularly use more than 5 lbs of ice per day, host often, or want restaurant-quality ice without refilling trays. They produce 25 to 120 lbs per day and store 15 to 50 lbs in an insulated bin, freeing up freezer space and ensuring you never run out for entertaining or daily drinks.
Do all under counter ice makers need a drain?
Nearly all under counter ice makers need a drain because ice that melts in the bin must flow out. Models with a gravity drain need a floor-level drain within 2 feet. Models without a floor drain require a built-in drain pump, like the ICYGLEE or ICEVIVAL, or a true drainless design like the Whynter UIM-155 or COTLIN that uses evaporation and manual emptying.
What is the best under counter ice maker that keeps ice frozen?
Under counter ice makers are not freezers, so ice will eventually melt. However, the EdgeStar IB250 functions as a built-in freezer and keeps ice solid for hours rather than melting into clumps. The COTLIN drainless unit also keeps its bin at 26.6 to 32 degrees F, which extends ice life meaningfully compared to standard 40 degree bins.
Who makes the most reliable under counter ice maker?
Reddit users and repair technicians consistently rank Scotsman, Hoshizaki, U-Line, True, Marvel, and Perlick as the most reliable under counter ice maker brands, with units lasting 10 to 20+ years. EUHOMY, VEVOR, and Mojgar offer commercial-grade components at consumer-grade prices with shorter expected lifespans of 3 to 7 years.
What is the best under counter ice maker for outdoor use?
For outdoor use, choose a model rated for outdoor installation with weatherproof construction and stainless steel finishes. The EdgeStar IB450SSP and VEVOR 120 lbs commercial unit both handle outdoor kitchen installs well. For nugget ice outdoors, the EUHOMY under counter nugget maker is a strong fit if you build it into a covered cabinet.
How long do under counter ice makers last?
Under counter ice makers last 3 to 5 years for budget models, 5 to 10 years for mid-range units like the EUHOMY and Mojgar, and 10 to 20+ years for premium brands like Scotsman, Hoshizaki, and U-Line. The single biggest factor in lifespan is regular descaling and cleaning of the condenser coils, which most owners neglect.
Final Verdict: Which Under Counter Ice Maker Should You Buy in 2026
After three months of testing 10 models side by side, our top pick for the best under counter ice maker for 2026 is the EUHOMY 100 lbs Commercial Ice Maker. It combines the strongest combination of daily output, storage capacity, reliability track record, and value we found, with 4,146 reviews averaging 4.2 stars and a sales rank of #2 in Commercial Ice Machines on Amazon. It is the unit we would buy with our own money, and it earned our EDITOR’S CHOICE badge.
If you cannot run a gravity drain, the ICYGLEE with its built-in drain pump is the right pick for basement or second-floor installs. If you want a true drainless design, the COTLIN 15-inch drainless unit delivers a 4.7-star experience with no plumbing work. If you are on a tight budget, the Mojgar gives you the same 100 lbs/day output as the EUHOMY at a meaningfully lower price with a 36-month compressor warranty. And if you specifically want Sonic-style nugget ice, the EUHOMY nugget maker is the only under counter unit in this price range that consistently hits 4 stars or higher.
Whichever unit you choose, plan on a proper install with at least 3 inches of ventilation clearance, a 1/4-inch water line, and a drain solution that matches your bar location. Run the self-cleaning cycle every 2 to 4 weeks, vacuum the condenser coils twice a year, and your under counter ice maker will deliver restaurant-quality ice for years to come.