5 Best Countertop Ice Makers for Home Use in the UK
If you like your drinks cold without waiting hours for freezer trays, a countertop ice maker can make things a lot easier. These compact machines fit neatly on the kitchen side and produce ice quickly without any fuss. Some are faster, some are quieter, and a few even give you options on the size or shape of the cubes. Below, you’ll find five of the top models for home use, chosen for their speed, build quality, and overall performance.
1
Exceptional
EUHOMY Compact Countertop Ice Maker
What We Like
2
Exceptional
Andrew James Countertop Ice Maker
What We Like
3
Exceptional
FOHERE Ice Maker Machine Countertop
What We Like
4
Exceptional
WIE Stainless Steel Ice Maker, 12kg Daily
What We Like
5
Excellent
ecozy Ice Maker with 2 Ice Sizes
What We Like
Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying a Countertop Ice Maker
Size and Fit for Your Space
Measure your kitchen counter or wherever you plan to place the machine. Some ice makers are quite bulky, so it’s better to check the actual dimensions before buying. Also, make sure there’s enough space around the unit for air to circulate, especially if it vents from the side or back.
Ice Production Rate
Some machines can churn out 9 cubes in 6 minutes, others take a bit longer. If you regularly have people over or use lots of ice, go for a model that can produce at least 12 kg per day.
Water Refill Method
Some machines let you connect directly to a water line, but most countertop models need to be filled manually. Check the tank size, it’ll affect how often you need to top it up.
Ice Shape
You’ll find machines making bullet ice, nugget ice, or cube-shaped ice. Some melt slower, others are better for chewing. It’s just down to what you prefer for your drinks or smoothies.
How long does a countertop ice maker take to produce ice?
Most home-use models start making their first batch of ice within 6 to 10 minutes. That said, the first batch is usually smaller or slightly wetter, as the internal temperature is still dropping. Once it’s properly chilled, later batches come out more solid and consistent. If you want a full basket of ice, you’re usually looking at 45 minutes to an hour depending on the model.
Are countertop ice makers energy efficient?
They don’t use much power compared to full-sized appliances. Most use around 100 to 150 watts while operating, similar to a light bulb or a small fan. Because they don’t run constantly and only freeze small batches, they’re fairly efficient. Still, it’s smart to unplug it when not in use to save a bit on your energy bill.
Why is my ice cloudy and not clear?
Cloudy ice usually means there’s air or minerals trapped inside. Tap water, especially hard water, can make your ice look murky. Try switching to filtered or bottled water. Some users also run a vinegar-water mix through the machine every month to reduce build-up and improve clarity.
