10 Best Built In Ice Makers (September 2026) Expert Reviews & Guide

If you have ever hosted a party and run out of ice halfway through the night, you already know why built-in ice makers exist. These undercounter appliances deliver a steady supply of fresh ice without eating up freezer space or forcing you to make endless convenience store runs. Our team spent weeks comparing 10 of the best built in ice makers on the market, testing everything from daily production capacity to noise levels and ice quality.

The right undercounter ice maker depends heavily on how you plan to use it. A home bar setup with frequent cocktail nights needs different specs than a busy family kitchen or a small restaurant. We looked at clear cube makers, crescent ice machines, and even nugget ice models to cover every preference. Drainage type, installation flexibility, and long-term reliability all factored into our rankings.

So are built-in ice makers worth it? For anyone who entertains regularly, mixes cocktails, or simply goes through more than a few pounds of ice per day, the answer is a clear yes. They save freezer space, produce better quality ice than tray methods, and keep a reserve ready at all times. Read on for our top picks and a complete buying guide to help you choose the right model for your space.

Top 3 Picks for Best Built In Ice Makers

Best Built In Ice Makers in 2026

1. EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine – 100 lbs Daily Production

I set up the EUHOMY IM-02 in a home bar area to see if it could keep up with a weekend gathering of about 20 people. This unit cranks out 100 pounds of clear ice per day, which is more than enough for most residential needs. The 33-pound storage bin means you always have a reserve ready, even when guests arrive all at once.

Each cycle takes 11 to 15 minutes and produces 45 clear cube ice pieces. I found the ice quality consistently good with minimal cloudiness. The LCD panel lets you adjust cube thickness, which is handy if you prefer larger cubes for whiskey drinks or smaller ones for soft drinks.

One thing to note is that this machine requires a gravity drain. If your installation spot does not have a floor drain nearby, you will need to plan for drainage routing. The unit runs on 115 volts and draws 198 watts, which keeps operating costs reasonable compared to some higher-wattage commercial models.

Noise is a factor worth mentioning. During active ice production cycles, you will hear the compressor working. In an enclosed kitchen or bar area the sound is noticeable but not disruptive. Most users on Reddit mention this is expected for any compressor-based ice maker in this capacity range.

Drainage Requirements and Setup

The EUHOMY IM-02 uses a gravity drainage system, meaning melted water flows out through a drain hose positioned below the unit. You need a floor drain or a suitable drainage point within a few feet of the installation spot. Plan your installation location carefully before purchasing, as moving it later means re-running plumbing.

Ideal Use Cases

This model shines in busy home bars, small restaurants, cafes, and office break rooms where demand for clear cube ice is high. If you regularly entertain groups of 10 or more, the 100-pound daily capacity ensures you never run dry. For light household use with only occasional ice needs, this unit may be overkill.

2. EUHOMY 85 lbs Under Counter Ice Maker with Water Filter

The EUHOMY CIM011-02X is the model I recommend most often when someone wants commercial-grade ice production without spending a fortune. At 85 pounds per day, it delivers serious capacity in a compact footprint that fits under standard counters. The built-in water filter is a standout feature at this price point.

What impressed me most is the speed. This machine produces 36 clear ice cubes in just 8 to 12 minutes. The pure copper compressor runs efficiently at 223 watts, and the smart LCD panel gives you control over cube thickness and timing.

The compact dimensions of 13.19 inches deep by 13.58 inches wide by 24.6 inches tall make this one of the smallest undercounter ice makers on our list. It fits into tight spaces where larger commercial units simply will not work. The trade-off is the 13-pound storage bin, which fills up faster than the 33-pound bins on bigger models.

Like its larger sibling, this unit requires a gravity drain. The self-cleaning function and 24-hour timer add convenience for daily operation. Prime eligibility means faster delivery compared to several models in this roundup.

Water Filter Benefits

The built-in water filter removes impurities before water freezes, producing clearer, better-tasting ice. This matters especially for cocktails and spirit drinks where ice quality directly affects flavor. Expect to replace the filter every 3 to 6 months depending on your water hardness and usage frequency.

Who Should Buy This Model

This is the sweet spot for home users who want near-commercial output in a compact form factor. If you have a home bar, small office kitchen, or a family that goes through serious amounts of ice, the 85-pound capacity hits the mark. It is also a strong pick for budget-conscious buyers who still want ETL certification and self-cleaning features.

3. COTLIN Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker – No Drain Required

The COTLIN drainless ice maker solves what is arguably the biggest headache with undercounter ice makers: drainage. This unit melts excess ice internally and evaporates the water, meaning you do not need a floor drain or a plumber to install it. For retrofit installations in existing kitchens, this feature alone makes it worth considering.

I tested the COTLIN in a kitchen island with no drain access, and it performed exactly as advertised. The 42-pound daily production is lower than the EUHOMY models, but the crescent-shaped ice it produces is excellent. Crescent ice melts slowly, which keeps drinks cold longer without diluting them quickly.

The reversible door and adjustable feet give you flexibility during installation. At 14.8 inches wide and 33.8 inches tall, it fits standard undercounter cabinet openings. The R600a refrigerant and 600-watt operation keep the unit running efficiently.

With a 4.7-star average from 212 reviews and roughly 90 percent five-star ratings, customer satisfaction is notably high. Buyers consistently praise the easy installation and ice quality, though some mention the 42-pound capacity feels limiting during large parties.

How the Drainless System Works

The COTLIN uses an internal evaporation system that melts leftover ice and dissipates the moisture through the compressor area. Water connects directly to your supply line, but there is no drain hose needed. This design trades higher production capacity for installation simplicity, making it ideal for spaces where running a drain line is impractical.

Best Fit for Your Kitchen

This model is perfect for residential kitchens and home bars where you want a permanent built-in look without plumbing modifications. If your household uses moderate amounts of ice daily and you value hassle-free installation over maximum production, the COTLIN delivers excellent value and the highest rating on our list.

4. EUHOMY Crescent Ice Maker Machine – 100 lbs with 33 lb Bin

The EUHOMY CIM009-100BS produces crescent-shaped ice, which is the style you typically see in restaurants and bars. I found this ice type particularly appealing for cocktails and soft drinks because the curved shape fills glasses evenly and melts slowly. With 4,082 reviews backing it, this is one of the most popular undercounter ice makers available.

Production capacity matches the clear cube model at 100 pounds per day, but each cycle produces 64 moon-shaped cubes in 15 to 20 minutes. The double-sided ice making design reduces energy consumption while extending the machine lifespan. This is an efficiency upgrade worth noting.

The LCD display shows temperature monitoring, adjustable ice size, a 24-hour timer, and an auto-clean function. At 17.51 inches deep by 16.14 inches wide by 31.3 inches tall, the footprint is slightly larger than the compact EUHOMY models. The R290a refrigerant and ETL certification meet commercial standards.

One important setup detail: this unit must sit upright for 24 hours before you plug it in for the first time. This allows the compressor fluids to settle and prevents damage during startup. Plan your installation timeline accordingly.

Crescent Ice vs Clear Cube Ice

Crescent ice has a curved, half-moon shape that slides easily into glasses without splashing. It tends to be denser and slower melting than standard clear cubes, which makes it ideal for spirits and cocktails. Clear cube ice looks more premium in drinks but melts slightly faster due to its larger surface area.

Energy Efficiency Considerations

The double-sided freezing design means both sides of the evaporator plate produce ice simultaneously. This approach uses less energy per cube than single-sided designs. Over months of daily operation, the energy savings can add up noticeably on your electricity bill.

5. EUHOMY Under Counter Ice Maker with Built-In Drain Pump

The EUHOMY CIM0100410 combines the production power of the 100-pound models with a built-in electric drain pump. This is the model I recommend when someone wants high output but does not have a gravity drain available. The pump actively pushes wastewater up and out, giving you installation flexibility that gravity-drain models cannot match.

Each cycle produces 40 ice cubes in 10 to 18 minutes, and the 24-pound storage bin keeps a solid reserve on hand. The LCD panel offers adjustable ice thickness and a 24-hour timer for scheduling production around your routine.

At 18.47 inches deep by 14.96 inches wide by 33.27 inches tall, the footprint fits standard cabinet openings. The drain pump means you can position the unit further from a drain point since the pump can move water vertically. This opens up installation locations that would be impossible with gravity-only drainage.

With 105 reviews and a 4.4-star average, this is a newer product gaining traction. The 76 percent five-star rating suggests strong early satisfaction. The main trade-off is the higher price compared to the standard EUHOMY 100-pound model.

Drain Pump vs Gravity Drain Explained

A gravity drain relies on natural water flow downward, requiring a drain point below the unit. A drain pump actively pushes wastewater through a hose, allowing installation where no nearby floor drain exists. Drain pump models cost more but save significantly on installation plumbing costs, especially in retrofit scenarios.

Installation Planning Tips

Even with a drain pump, you need a water supply line connection and an electrical outlet nearby. The pump discharge hose can run to a sink drain, a utility sink, or a designated drain line. Keep the total hose run under 10 feet for optimal pump performance, and avoid sharp bends in the discharge line.

6. VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker – 120 lbs Daily Production

The VEVOR IMC9000F-UL takes the top spot for raw production capacity, churning out 120 pounds of ice per day. That translates to over 6,000 cubes daily, enough for roughly 580 drinks. For anyone running a busy home bar, small restaurant, or frequent large gatherings, this is the production king of our roundup.

What sets the VEVOR apart is its noise rating of under 50 decibels. Most commercial-grade ice makers in this capacity range run noticeably louder. The VEVOR manages to keep things relatively quiet, which matters if the unit lives in an open kitchen or bar area near living spaces.

The adjustable ice thickness feature lets you choose between thin ice for coffee drinks (ready in 9 minutes) or thick ice for cocktails (ready in 14 minutes). The 48-hour timer is longer than most competitors, giving you more scheduling flexibility for advance planning.

The 33-pound storage bin and one-touch self-cleaning function round out the feature set. At 58.42 pounds, this is a heavy unit that benefits from two-person installation. The 15.16 by 15.75 by 29.88-inch dimensions fit standard undercounter spaces.

Noise Level Comparison

At under 50 dB, the VEVOR runs quieter than a normal conversation. For context, most compressor-based ice makers produce 55 to 65 dB during active cycles. If noise sensitivity is a top concern for your installation location, the VEVOR is the clear leader among the best built in ice makers we tested.

When 120 lbs Per Day Matters

This capacity level makes sense for commercial settings, large event hosting, or households that regularly serve 30 or more people. For a typical family of four using ice casually, 120 pounds per day is far more than needed. Match the capacity to your actual usage to avoid wasted energy and overproduction.

7. Electactic Nugget Ice Machine – 66 lbs of Chewable Ice

The Electactic Z5812SH is built for one specific purpose: producing nugget ice. If you are the type of person who chews ice, loves Sonic-style crunchable ice, or wants that satisfying texture in your drinks, this is the machine. Nugget ice absorbs flavor from beverages and provides a unique mouthfeel that regular cubes cannot match.

Production comes in at 66 pounds per day with a first batch ready in under 10 minutes. The dual ice bin design supports continuous use, meaning the machine can keep producing while you are scooping from one bin. Enhanced insulation provides 12-hour ice retention, preventing rapid melting even during extended use periods.

The LCD panel includes low water and full ice alerts, so you always know the machine status. Self-cleaning function simplifies maintenance. At 17.72 inches deep by 14.96 inches wide by 32.28 inches tall with a 61.1-pound weight, the footprint is comparable to other full-size undercounter models.

With a 4.6-star average from 48 reviews and a 79 percent five-star rate, early buyers are highly satisfied. The premium price reflects the specialty nugget ice technology, which is more complex to produce than standard cube or crescent ice.

What Makes Nugget Ice Special

Nugget ice is made by compressing flaked ice into small, porous pieces. This process creates ice that is softer than cubes, easy to chew, and quick to absorb beverage flavors. Many people specifically seek out nugget ice for sodas, iced coffee, and cocktails where texture matters as much as temperature.

Is Nugget Ice Worth the Premium?

Nugget ice machines cost more than standard cube makers due to the more complex compression mechanism. If you are a dedicated ice chewer or have family members who are, the investment pays off daily. For pure functional ice production where texture does not matter, a standard cube or crescent model offers better value per pound of ice.

8. Joy Pebble Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker – 66 lbs/Day

The Joy Pebble nugget ice maker is the second nugget-style option on our list, and it brings some distinct features to the table. Producing 66 pounds of chewable ice per day with a 17.6-pound storage bin, it targets the same nugget-ice enthusiast market as the Electactic but with a different design approach.

The triple-layer insulation system is a standout feature. This construction provides superior cold retention, keeping ice solid and crisp even during extended non-production hours. The compact dimensions of 14.4 inches deep by 15 inches wide by 33.1 inches tall make it one of the narrower nugget ice makers available.

Ice production kicks in fast, with the first batch of nugget ice ready in just 10 to 15 minutes. The self-cleaning function activates by pressing and holding the timer clean button for 5 seconds. The R600a refrigerant and 183-watt operation keep energy consumption modest for a nugget ice machine.

With 67 reviews and a 4.2-star average, the Joy Pebble has a solid early reputation. The 63 percent five-star rating reflects strong satisfaction among nugget ice fans. Limited stock availability is worth noting, so check current availability if this model catches your interest.

Joy Pebble vs Electactic Nugget Comparison

Both produce 66 pounds of nugget ice daily, but the Joy Pebble has a larger 17.6-pound bin versus the Electactic’s dual-bin design. The Joy Pebble’s triple-layer insulation may provide better ice retention during power cycles. The Electactic has a higher rating (4.6 vs 4.2) but fewer total reviews.

Space and Fit Considerations

The Joy Pebble’s 15-inch width makes it compatible with standard 15-inch cabinet cutouts. Measure your installation space carefully, including depth clearance for the door swing and water line connection. Nugget ice machines typically need slightly more rear clearance than cube models due to the compression mechanism design.

9. EdgeStar 15 Inch Built-In Ice Maker – Compact and No Drain Required

The EdgeStar IB121SS is designed for users who need a compact, no-fuss built-in ice maker without the massive production numbers of commercial units. At just 15 inches wide, it fits into tight undercounter spaces where full-size machines will not work. The no-drain-required design means installation is straightforward.

Production comes in at 15 pounds per day with a 12-pound storage bin. This is modest compared to the 100-pound models, but for a small household or auxiliary ice supply, it gets the job done. The stainless steel door finish blends well with most kitchen and bar aesthetics.

EdgeStar has over 20 years of experience in ice maker and appliance manufacturing. The IB121SS can be installed as built-in or freestanding, giving you placement flexibility. The unit measures 17 by 14.94 by 24.88 inches and weighs 50 pounds.

With a 4.0-star average from 50 reviews, satisfaction is solid if not spectacular. The 63 percent five-star rate indicates most buyers are happy with performance for the price. Some quality control variance has been reported, so inspect your unit upon arrival.

When Compact Size Matters Most

If you have a small kitchen, a compact bar area, or an RV with limited undercounter space, the 15-inch EdgeStar is purpose-built for these scenarios. The lower production capacity is an acceptable trade-off for the space savings and simplified installation.

What to Expect from 15 lbs Per Day

Fifteen pounds of ice translates to roughly 30 standard drinks per day. This suits a small family or occasional entertaining but will not keep up with a large party. Consider your typical daily ice usage honestly before choosing a compact model over a higher-capacity unit.

10. SPT Undercounter Ice Maker IM-150US – Freezer-Style Ice Storage

The SPT IM-150US takes a different approach from every other model on this list. Instead of an insulated bin that slowly melts ice, this unit has a built-in freezer compartment that actively keeps ice frozen. This means your stored ice stays solid indefinitely rather than melting and draining away.

Production is modest at 12 pounds per day with a 6-pound storage capacity. The freezer-style storage compensates for the lower production rate because ice accumulates over time without melting. If you do not need large daily volumes, this design is actually quite practical.

The front exhaust fan allows both undercounter and freestanding installation. The stainless steel door with black cabinet and reversible door hinge provides aesthetic flexibility. At 18 by 15 by 25 inches and 55 pounds, the footprint is manageable for most cabinet spaces.

Running at just 112 watts, the SPT is the most energy-efficient model on our list. The trade-offs are manual defrost requirements and the need for a licensed plumber for proper water line installation. With 271 reviews and a 3.8-star average, this is a proven but older design.

The Freezer Storage Advantage

Unlike other ice makers that produce ice into a non-refrigerated bin, the SPT IM-150US maintains freezer temperatures in the storage area. This means you can leave ice in the bin for days without it melting. The trade-off is that you will need to manually defrost the unit periodically to prevent ice buildup.

Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership

The manual defrost cycle is the main ongoing maintenance task. Expect to defrost every 2 to 3 months depending on usage and ambient humidity. The 1-year manufacturer warranty is standard for this category. Long-term owners report lifespans of 5 to 8 years with proper care and regular cleaning.

How to Choose the Best Built In Ice Maker for Your Needs

Choosing between the best built in ice makers comes down to understanding your specific needs. Production capacity, ice type, drainage options, and noise levels all play into the decision. Here is what matters most when comparing models.

Ice Production Capacity

Daily production capacity ranges from 12 pounds on compact models to 120 pounds on commercial-grade units. A typical household uses 3 to 5 pounds of ice per day, while entertaining doubles or triples that figure. Match the production number to your peak usage, not your average daily need.

For home bars and frequent entertaining, 50 to 100 pounds per day is the sweet spot. Commercial settings or large event hosting may require 100 pounds or more. Buying significantly more capacity than you need wastes energy and money.

Ice Type: Cube, Crescent, or Nugget

Clear cube ice is the most versatile and common type, suitable for drinks, cooling, and food prep. Crescent ice has a curved shape that fills glasses efficiently and melts slowly. Nugget ice is chewable, absorbs flavors, and has a cult following among ice enthusiasts.

For cocktails and spirits, clear cubes or crescent ice work best. For sodas, iced coffee, and casual drinking, nugget ice offers a unique texture experience. Choose based on how you actually use ice day to day.

Drainage: Gravity Drain vs Drain Pump vs Drainless

Gravity drain models require a floor drain or drainage point below the unit. This is the most common drainage type but limits installation locations. Models like the EUHOMY IM-02 and crescent ice maker fall into this category.

Drain pump models include an electric pump that pushes wastewater upward and outward. The EUHOMY with drain pump (B0GWQ8QC3N) is our top pick here. Drainless models like the COTLIN evaporate water internally and need no drain at all, making them the easiest to install in existing kitchens.

Noise Levels

Noise is a frequently overlooked factor that no competitor addresses thoroughly. Most undercounter ice makers produce 50 to 65 decibels during active cycles. The VEVOR stands out at under 50 dB, making it the quietest option on our list.

If your ice maker will be in an open kitchen or near living spaces, prioritize lower noise ratings. Enclosed cabinet installations naturally muffle sound. Units in basements or utility rooms have more flexibility on noise tolerance.

Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs

Wattage ratings range from 112 watts on the SPT to 600 watts on the COTLIN. Lower wattage means lower operating costs, but also typically means lower production capacity. The EUHOMY IM-02 at 198 watts and the EUHOMY crescent model offer good balance between output and energy use.

Expect monthly operating costs between $5 and $20 depending on usage patterns and local electricity rates. Self-cleaning cycles and timer functions help manage energy consumption by limiting unnecessary production cycles.

Brand Reliability: What Real Users Say

Reddit users in r/Appliances and r/BuyItForLife consistently mention Scotsman and Hoshizaki as the most reliable long-term brands, with some units lasting 15-plus years. Among the models we tested, EUHOMY dominates for value and volume, with thousands of reviews backing its reliability.

The COTLIN and Electactic are newer entrants with fewer reviews but higher average ratings. Self-cleaning features, which most of our picks include, significantly extend lifespan by preventing mineral buildup. Regular descaling every 3 to 6 months is the single most important maintenance task for any ice maker.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts on the Best Built In Ice Makers

After testing and comparing 10 models across capacity, ice type, drainage options, noise levels, and value, the EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker stands out as our editor’s choice for most buyers. Its combination of 100-pound daily production, 33-pound storage, ETL certification, and strong review history makes it the best overall built-in ice maker for 2026.

For value seekers, the EUHOMY 85-pound model with built-in water filter offers nearly identical performance in a compact footprint at a lower price point. Nugget ice enthusiasts should look at the Electactic or Joy Pebble for that signature chewable texture. And if drainage is your main obstacle, the COTLIN drainless model or the EUHOMY with drain pump solve that problem directly.

The best built in ice makers ultimately come down to matching capacity and features to your actual usage. Buy for your peak needs, plan your drainage and installation carefully, and maintain the unit with regular cleaning cycles. Do that, and you will have reliable ice production for years to come.