6 Best Outdoor Ice Makers in 2021: Stylish, Under Budget, and Portable

Getting an Outdoor Ice Maker for your outdoor adventures might be one of the best investments that could make your trip a lot more fun and exciting!

When you have large get-togethers for savoring a summer BBQ or even small brunches, those tiny ice trays won’t do you any good for such a large gathering. By getting an outdoor ice maker, you’ll have the convenience of having an unlimited source of fresh ice which normal trays won’t be able to provide. 

Also, it will be quite infuriating to persistently have to go inside to get more ice for having perfectly chilled drinks at hand. That’s where a high-grade outdoor ice-making machine comes in handy, so you won’t always have to run indoors to grab some ice.

These ice makers are easy to use and ideal for outdoor usage so that you won’t miss out on any fun. These machines would need to be plugged into a power source, and remember to keep them under some cover.

Though, it can be hard to find the right product for you when there are so many options in the market. Also, there are many other factors to be put into consideration before buying the best one. Therefore, we have short-listed the best ice makers and a buying guide to save you from all the hassle.

At a Glance – Our Top Picks of Top Rated Outdoor Ice Makers

1. Best Overall – AGLUCKY Countertop Ice Maker Machine

Item Dimensions: 12.32 x 8.74 x 12.59 inches | Item Weight: 17.05 pounds | Voltage: 110 Volts | Material: Stainless Steel | Capacity: 17 Litres | Form Factor: Standalone | Installation Type: Countertop

It has been equipped with a quick, efficient, and quiet cooling system that would produce up to 26.5 pounds of ice cubes per 6-8 minutes.

The company has constructed this machine using stainless steel, which is considered to be the best material for ice maker machines. This construction quality will ensure that your unit doesn’t rust regardless of the weather conditions and provides longevity with durability.

• This model also serves as a portable ice maker that will be easy to carry and operate.
• It can produce nine ice cubes in under six to eight minutes.
• It has been equipped with a fast and quiet cooling system.
• Multiple handy features notify you when the ice cubes are done or when the machine is running out of water.
• It produces round and smooth bullet-shaped ice so that you won’t hurt your hands.
• It makes pure ice cubes that are healthy for your daily intake.

You can get this ice maker in three different colors; black, silver, or red. All the colors are aesthetically pleasing as they all come with a large window in the lid that allows you to look inside the bucket to see the ice formation.

Just like other models in the market, this machine has two buttons; the on/off button and a select button to choose the size of the ice cubes. In addition, you get five indicators:

• “Add Water”- this indicator lights up when the machine is empty and more water is needed for ice production.
• “Ice Full”- this indicator notifies you when the bucket has been filled with ice cubes.
• “Power”- lights up when the machine is turned on.
• “S”- this indicator gets on when you’ve selected the small ice cube setting.
• “L”- this indicator gets lighted up when you’ve selected the large ice cube option.

Another highlight of this unit is that you can get healthier ice cubes from this ice maker machine. The cubes are so pure that you can literally see through them. In addition, these ice cubes are formed in the form of bullets so that they won’t hurt your hands.

Related: GE Opal Countertop Nugget Ice Maker – Detailed Review

Pros	Cons
Compact and portable ice maker	Ice will melt relatively quicker
Easy to carry and operate	Not much difference between the small and large ice cube size
Quiet cooling system ensuring a quiet environment
26.5 pounds of ice per 6-8 minutes
Multiple buttons and indicators
Bullet-shaped ice cubes
Healthy and pure ice cubes

2.Best for commercial use – Euhomy Ice Maker Machine Countertop

Item Dimensions: 14.1 x 11 x 13.7 inches | Item Weight: 26.6 pounds | Voltage: 110 Volts | Material: Stainless Steel Capacity: 26 Pounds | Form Factor: Free Standing | Installation Type: Countertop

Thanks to its design, you can easily place it over any tabletop or countertop inside homes, bars, offices, tea shops, etc.

This ice maker machine can produce 24 ice cubes in about 12-18 minutes, meaning that it can generate about 40 pounds of ice cubes in tenure of 24 hours. Also, the system is highly efficient and has been equipped with advanced refrigeration technology, which uses compressors to produce high-quality ice cubes.

You can also adjust the thickness of the ice cubes with respect to your requirements or preference for the perfectly chilled drinks each time. With the automatic self-cleaning feature, you only have to press the “timer” button for about five seconds, and it will automatically start the self-cleaning function.

• This ice maker machine can generate up to 40 pounds of ice in 24 hours.
• You can adjust the thickness of the ice cubes according to your requirements or preference.
• The machine offers an automatic self-cleaning function.
• It’s extremely user-friendly as it offers LCD and Digital displays.
• The water recycling system recycles the melted water from unused ice cubes.

This machine has been constructed keeping user convenience in mind as it has a clear LCD and Digital display and many electronic controls. With the handy indicators, your machine will notify you when it has run out of water or when the ice bucket has been filled with ice cubes.

As this ice maker can accumulate 2.2 liters of water at a time, you won’t need to refill it very often. When you have filled it to its maximum capacity, it will produce about 120 ice cubes in around five cycles. In addition, the water recycling system recycles the water from melted ice, thus reducing water wastage.

Pros	Cons
High-quality ice cubes	Takes about 15-20 minutes to produce ice
Best for homes, offices, bars, tea shops, etc	Lid isn’t airtight
24 ice cubes per 12-18 minutes
Automatic cleaning system
Adjustable ice cube thickness
Advanced refrigeration technology
LCD and digital display
Water recycling system
Effective and quiet cooling system
User-friendly machine

3. Best Compact- ULIT Ice Maker Countertop

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Item Dimensions: 12.6 x 8.8 x 11.7 inches | Item Weight: 26.6 pounds | Voltage: 120 Volts | Material: Crystal Capacity: 1.5 litres | Form Factor: Free Standing | Installation Type: Countertop

This ice machine can easily fit into any table or countertop and can be conveniently stored when not in use.

It offers speed ice cubes making as it produces 26 lbs of bullet-shaped, crystal-clear ice cubes within 24 hours (9 cubes in a cycle of 8 minutes). In addition, it has been equipped with the most powerful compressor out of all the other competitors and offers a fast, reliable, and quiet cooling system.

This exceptional ice maker machine has a classic design having a convenient control panel with three buttons. All you need to do is fill up your machine with water, switch on the power supply, turn on the machine and let the ice maker do its magic.

• It has been equipped with the most powerful compressor compared to other models.
• Thanks to the small footprint, it can fit any countertop and can be easily stored when not in use.
• It has a classic design with a control panel, three buttons, and some indicators.
• You can easily monitor the ice production process through the large transparent window.
• The advanced infrared technology automatically produces ice cubes in continuous cycles.
• It has a removable ice basket and comes with an extra ice scoop.

There’s a large, transparent window on top of the lid so you can easily monitor the entire ice cube production process. Also, there’s a drain plug attached to the bottom of the machine, so you can easily drain out all the water as there won’t be any water recycling feature.

Another highlight of this model is the advanced infrared sensor technology which will automatically notify you when the machine is full of ice. In addition, you get a removable ice basket and an additional ice scoop to put the cubes inside your drinks conveniently.

Looking for more options for Countertop ice makers? Check out the Guide on Best Frigidaire Countertop Ice Makers!

Pros	Cons
Speed ice making technology	Doesn’t offer different ice cube sizes
Bullet-shaped ice cubes	No water recycling feature
Equipped with the most powerful compressor
Fast and quiet cooling system
Small footprint
Convenient buttons and indicators
Large transparent window
Advanced infrared sensor technology
Removable ice basket
Comes with an extra ice scoop

4. Best Quiet Option – IKICH Portable Ice Maker Machine for Countertop

Item Dimensions: 8.7 x 12.3 x 12.6 inches | Item Weight: 15.65 pounds | Voltage: 115 Volts | Material: ABS l Capacity: 2 litres | Form Factor: Free Standing | Installation Type: Countertop

If you prefer enjoying your outdoor parties without any noise coming from the machines, then the IKICH Portable Ice Maker Machine is one of the best quiet options in the market. This machine operates at just 45 decibels, meaning that you won’t even notice the machine running while relishing an outdoor brunch.

With this efficient ice maker machine, you’ll only have to wait for about 6 minutes to get nine pieces of chewable ice that are in the shape of bullets. It means that it can produce up to 16 lbs of ice cubes in about 24 hours, thanks to its 68 oz water reservoir.

The main highlight of this ice maker is the large translucent window fitted in the lid, allowing you to monitor the number of ice cubes produced inside the machine. This way, you won’t even have to open the lid to check the process. Also, this window is dirt-resistant, making it a breeze to clean.

• This ice maker machine can produce nine chewable, delicious, bullet-shaped ice cubes in about 6 minutes.
• It has been equipped with a quiet cooling system while operating at just 45dB.
• This model offers one of the most straightforward installation processes compared to the competitors.
• You can select the size of your ice cubes which can be either small or large.
• There’s an outlet and drain plug at the bottom of this machine, so excess water easily drains out.
• A large translucent window has been fitted to the lid for easy observation.

This ice maker has been equipped with enhanced insulation with a polyurethane foam layer, preventing heat from reaching the inside of the machine. In addition, it has fast refrigeration technology, which increases the speed of the machine and consumes a much lesser amount of electricity.

Another highlight is the two infrared sensors that notify you when the ice basket is full of ice cubes or when the machine has run out of water. Also, there’s an outlet and a drain plug at this machine’s bottom, so you’re allowed to get rid of all the excess water conveniently.

Pros	Cons
Chewable, delicious, bullet-shaped ice	Ice cubes may melt inside the machine if not used for long
12 kgs of ice in 24 hours	The constructions materials aren’t that sturdy
Runs at less than 45dB
Smart indicators
Straightforward installation
Adjustable ice cube size
Ice won’t melt easily
Large translucent window
Drain plug at the bottom
Comes with a basket and ice scoop

5. Best Cheap Option – CROWNFUL Ice Maker Countertop Machine

Item Dimensions: 11.4 x 9.8 x 13.7 inches | Item Weight: 21.8 pounds| Voltage: 110 Volts | Material: ABS Capacity: 800 Millilitres | Form Factor: Free Standing | Installation Type: Countertop

This model features many exceptional functionalities while being a cost-effective ice maker.

It takes about 8-10 minutes to produce nine large ice cubes, but you won’t get to choose a custom size according to your needs and preferences. The water that has been accumulated due to the melted ice will again go to the reservoir for ice production, thus, minimizing water wastage.

The cleaning process would be extremely straightforward as you’ll only need a soft cloth dipped in a solution of warm water and vinegar to rinse the outer body of this machine. We recommend that you clean the machine upon its arrival and clean it once a week so that it will retain its durability.

• This ice maker has been equipped with water recycling technology which doesn’t let any water go to waste.
• The transparent lid lets you see the ice production process without opening the lid.
• The intuitive control panel provides easy controls and notifies you when it needs action.
• The drain plug at the bottom of the reservoir allows you to drain out any excess water conveniently.
• There are keys with indicators including On/Off, Ice, Ice Full, and Add Water.
• If you press the on/off button long enough, the machine will automatically start the self-cleaning process.

Here is a Brief Guide on, “How to Clean a Portable Ice Maker“

There’s a transparent window at the top of the reservoir through which you can easily see the machine generating ice cubes without opening the lid. This window makes sure that the temperature is maintained inside so the ice cubes would be of high quality.

The intuitive one-button operation allows you to perform all the actions just by using this single button. There are four keys with indicators including:

• ON/OFF Key- used to turn the machine on or off.
• ICE Key- when in standby mode, this indicator will blink while on working mode, this light will remain lit.
• ICE FULL Key- gets lit once the ice basket has become full of ice cubes.
• ADD WATER Key- notifies you once the reservoir is in need of more water.

Pros	Cons
Water recycling technology	Not that great capacity
Smart reminders including sensors	The fan can generate a bit of heat
Transparent lid
Relatively larger ice cubes
Easy to clean unit
Intuitive control panel
Drain plug
Four keys with indicators
Supports self-cleaning function
Comes with an ice bucket and a scoop

6. Best for Quick Ice – NewAir Counter Top Ice Maker Machine

Item Dimensions: 14.5 x 11.75 x 15 inches | Item Weight: 24.1 pounds| Voltage: 120 Volts | Material: Stainless Steel | Capacity:  4.8 pounds | Form Factor: Free Standing | Installation Type: Countertop

Don’t get deceived by its small footprint, as it’s a highly powerful machine capable of producing almost 50 lbs of bullet-shaped ice cubes in a day.

This machine has been renowned around the market for being extremely fast in generating ice as it can produce almost 12 ice cubes in the course of just 13 minutes. It ensures that you have a steady supply of clean, restaurant-grade ice cubes at the ease of your own home.

This ice maker allows you to choose from three distinctive sizes so you can select the one according to your needs. In addition, it offers an 18-hour timer so you can schedule the ice production.

• It’s a mini ice maker machine that is ideal for small kitchens, offices, RVs, boats, etc.
• It has an alluring appearance with a modern design.
• This machine can produce ice very quickly compared to many other models.
• The construction quality has been ensured for durability for years without wearing out.
• The installation process is simple, and the unit produces high-quality ice.

It comes with many indicator lights that notify you once the reservoir has completed the ice production process, is full, or when it has run out of water. Due to the small size, this mini ice maker is ideal for small spaces in the kitchen, RVs, offices, etc.

The installation process is extremely straightforward as it will require minimal effort to get installed in no time. Also, the maintenance wouldn’t be a hassle as you get a self-cleaning feature that will do almost all of the work.

The construction quality of this unit is one of the best in the entire market as it has been constructed using stainless steel. It won’t catch any rust and will protect your model from the humidity in the air. The only downside is that this ice maker can’t work continuously as most of the models with the same price tag can.

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING AN OUTDOOR ICE MAKER

Construction

The most important factor to consider is the construction material of your ice maker machine, as it will affect the durability and longevity of your ice maker machine. If you opt for steel construction, the machine will rust at a much quicker rate due to the moisture in the air. 

However, stainless steel machines are always recommended by experts as they have weather-resistant properties. They are corrosion resistant, so the humidity in the air won’t affect your machine in any way.

Temperature Rating

Considering the temperature rating is one of the most important factors to consider before buying an ice maker machine for your home. Remember that the higher the temperature rating will be, your unit would produce ice at a much lower rate.

It would be best to get a machine that portrays a balance between these two. If you get a unit that has a temperature rating of about 100 degrees F, it will operate even in hotter conditions by maintaining the ice production rate.

Type of Ice

In total, different ice makers can produce fourteen distinctive shapes of ice cubes so that you can choose according to your preference. The most famous ice maker machine is the one that can make reusable ice cubes that are dedicated for use in the water bottle and to crush the ice.

You can also get ice makers that can produce bagged ice, squared cubes, cylindrical cubes, and much more. If you spend some extra, you can get a machine that will ensure lesser overall costs and will provide you with ice that will melt at a much slower rate.

Capacity

It would be best to consider your exact production capacity requirements before buying the model for your home. If you’re buying an ice maker machine for a party with about ten persons, a machine making 15-20 lbs of ice is more than enough.

On the other hand, in case you’re hosting a big party with a huge gathering, consider buying a model that can produce 50 pounds of ice at least. But remember that machines with larger capacity will sure come quite costly.

Drainage Type

If we talk about the drainage type of an ice maker, there can be three types available in the market consisting of gravity drains, pumped drains, and drain-less models. Let’s study these types further:

• Gravity Drains

The models having gravity drains are the cheapest ones in the market as they depend on the earth’s gravitational force to eliminate all the excess water. But remember to ensure that you have a floor drain to which the water can be drained; otherwise, it won’t be best to consider these models.

• Pumped Drains

If you want your ice maker to work at its finest, it would be best to buy a model having pumped drains through which they can drain all the excess water. This drain system allows you to attach your model’s drain to the sewerage system effectively.

• Drain-less

Can you believe that an ice maker machine can also be drain-less? There are some models available in the market that don’t need to be drained like the regular ice makers. However, we don’t mean that they’ll accumulate the extra water inside them but have a system similar to a home refrigerator.

Special Requirements

Prior to buying an ice maker, it would be best to consider whether your place meets the needs of your unit or not. Following are the requirements that you must consider:

• Electrical Needs

Most of the ice makers in the market work on a 120 V electrical circuit. Some models need their dedicated circuit boards in order to operate efficiently. Therefore, ensure that your home has the ability to meet all the electrical needs of your ice maker.

• Clearance Needs

The clearance needs for an ice maker machine depend upon the design of the unit. Most of the models in the market are designed such that they circulate air from their fronts, meaning that this model can be installed between two cupboards or beneath a tabletop.

Additional Features

The additional features on any product don’t really affect its performance but provide a much better user experience. You’ll always relish using your machine with these features and get your work done in no time.

Following are some additional features that are preferred to be looked at when you’re buying your ice maker machine:

• Indicators

The first additional feature to look at in an ice maker is an indicator light that can perform multiple functions. Some models in the market offer an LED light that notifies you when the machine has run out of water. There are also some models having indicators that tell when the ice basket is full.

• Recycling water

Some ice maker machines in the market have the ability to recycle the water they already have inside them so they can make more ice cubes. They can also use the water from the melted ice, so it doesn’t go to waste.

• Energy Star Rating

If you want an efficient ice maker that consumes less energy, you should opt for a model with an Energy Star rating. This rating will make sure that the unit power consumption rate is lowered to reduce your electricity bills to a great extent.

Price

On average, ice maker machines can cost you from $200 to $1000 or even more. If you buy one having a large price tag, it will give you many added functionalities, high storage capacities, and ice production rates.

On the other hand, if you go for a cost-effective model, they will surely meet your needs but won’t have that much capacity or added functions. Therefore, it all depends on your requirements and preference that which model will be best for you.

Maintenance

Ice maker machines are supposed to get cleaned almost every six months for them to work efficiently and for longevity. Some models can be maintained at home, while some need to be checked and maintained by professionals.

Also Check Out: How to Defrost Samsung Ice Maker

Our Top Pick

You have most probably made up your mind on the product that best suits your needs by now. However, if you’re still unsure, our experts have concluded AGLUCKY Counter Top Ice Maker Machine to be the best in the market. 

All the user reviews have favored this ice maker machine, which makes it the best option for every home. The entire footprint is compact and easy to carry around, so you can conveniently shift it from one place to another.

This model’s efficient, fast, and quiet operation makes it ideal for homes, bars, cafes, and even offices. Also, with the buttons and indicators, you’re ensured of straightforward use of this machine.

This machine is also the best for health-conscious individuals as it produces healthy and pure ice cubes. In addition, the ice cubes are formed in the shape of bullets, so they won’t hurt your hands while you’re dealing with them.

Can portable ice makers be used outside?

Of course, you can use a portable ice maker machine wherever you want, but the site should have a power source. The machines that have been constructed using stainless steel won’t rust due to the humidity in the air even after years of use. There are also many units whose ice production rate won’t be affected even in hotter temperatures.

Conclusion

Nugget ice and sonic ice are the most demanded pieces for chilling your drinks in America. This ice cannot be formed in your regular fridge icebox as it’s pure, crunchy, and chewable. The ice can be created using these exclusive ice makers, which are efficient yet convenient to use as your perfect companion in summers.