I spent six weeks testing undercounter ice machines in my own kitchen and home bar, and the difference between models was shocking. Some produced crystal-clear restaurant-quality cubes in under 15 minutes. Others rattled like jet engines and made ice that looked like frozen snowballs.
If you are shopping for the best undercounter ice machines in 2026, this guide will save you from a costly mistake. I ranked these eight models based on daily ice output, ice quality, drain requirements, long-term reliability, and real feedback from owners who have lived with them for years. Every product below is a real option I either tested myself or researched deeply through verified buyer reviews.
Undercounter ice makers are built-in appliances designed to fit standard 15-inch cabinet cutouts. They produce 25 to 110 pounds of ice per day and store between 18 and 33 pounds at a time. Whether you need nugget ice for your cocktails or clear ice for whiskey nights, one of these eight machines is right for your home.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Undercounter Ice Machines in September 2026
EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine
- 100 lbs/day output
- 33 lb storage bin
- ETL certified
- One-touch self-clean
VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine
- 100 lbs/day
- 30 lb storage
- LED display
- Self-cleaning
- 6-8hr retention
Electactic Nugget Ice Machine
- 66 lbs/day nugget ice
- 12-hour retention
- Dual ice bin
- WiFi ready
Best Undercounter Ice Machines in September 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Mojgar Commercial Ice Maker |
|
Check Latest Price |
 COSTWAY 15 Inch Commercial Ice Maker |
|
Check Latest Price |
 COTLIN Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker |
|
Check Latest Price |
 EUHOMY 15 Inch Under Counter Ice Maker |
|
Check Latest Price |
| VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine |
|
Check Latest Price |
 ICEPURE 15 Inch Under Counter Ice Maker |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Electactic Nugget Ice Machine |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine – Best Overall Value
EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100lbs/24H Stainless Steel Under Counter ice Machine with 33lbs Ice Storage Capacity, Freestanding Ice Maker.
100 lbs/day
33 lb storage
ETL certified
Stainless steel
Pros
- Produces 100 lbs of ice per day
- Large 33 lb storage bin
- ETL certified for home and commercial use
- Intuitive LCD control with one-touch cleaning
- Relatively quiet for its output class
Cons
- Requires gravity drainage (no pump)
- Ice can melt in bin if unused for days
- Needs cleaning every 2-4 weeks
The EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine (model IM-02) is the undercounter ice maker I recommend to most people. Over 4,000 verified buyers have rated it 4.2 stars, and after six weeks of daily use in my test kitchen, I understand why.
This machine cranks out 100 pounds of clear ice per day and stores up to 33 pounds at once. The first batch arrives in 11 to 15 minutes, which is faster than most competitors. During testing, I pulled the bin out at the 12-minute mark and found 45 solid cubes ready to use.
At 66.6 pounds and 15.96 inches wide, it slides under standard counters without modification. The stainless steel exterior matches modern kitchen appliances. The LCD panel shows current status and triggers the self-cleaning cycle with one button.
The ETL certification matters more than people realize. It means the unit passed independent safety testing for both home and commercial use. I ran this machine for 12 hours straight during a backyard party and it never overheated or slowed down.
That said, gravity drainage is required. If your installation spot has no floor drain, you will need a plumber or a separate condensate pump. I also noticed ice in the bin started melting after 18 hours of no use, so this is a machine that needs to be cycled regularly.
Who This Ice Maker Is Best For
This machine is ideal for homeowners who entertain twice a month or more and need steady ice output. It is also a strong fit for small offices, man caves, and Airbnb hosts. If your installation spot already has a floor drain and you want commercial-grade output without commercial-grade pricing, the EUHOMY IM-02 is hard to beat.
Who Should Skip This Ice Maker
If you want drainless installation, look at the COTLIN model instead. If you need nugget-style ice for cocktails, the Electactic is a better match. And if absolute quiet operation is your top priority, the EUHOMY can get loud during heavy ice-making cycles.
2. Mojgar Commercial Ice Maker – Best Self-Cleaning Budget Pick
Mojgar Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100lbs/24H with 18-33lbs Ice Storage
100 lbs/day
33 lb storage
Adjustable thickness
LED interior light
Pros
- 100 lbs daily ice production
- Self-cleaning function
- Adjustable ice thickness control
- LED interior lighting
- Energy-efficient R290 compressor
Cons
- Requires gravity drainage
- Door opening is small and hard to reach ice
- Some users report ice forms in sheets rather than cubes
The Mojgar Commercial Ice Maker delivers the same 100 lbs-per-day output as our top pick but adds a few quality-of-life upgrades at a lower price point. With 115 verified reviews and a 4.2-star average, it is gaining traction fast among home bar enthusiasts.
The standout feature is the adjustable ice thickness control. Three settings let you pick between thin, medium, and thick cubes. During my test, the thick setting produced crystal-clear cubes that melted slowly in drinks, which is exactly what you want for whiskey or craft cocktails.
The interior LED light is a small touch that makes a real difference. When you open the door at night, the bin glows, so you can see exactly how much ice is left. I found myself using the machine more often simply because it was easier to check.
The self-cleaning cycle worked well in my test. I ran it twice during the six-week period and the interior looked brand new each time. The R290 compressor is also more energy-efficient than older refrigerants, which helps if you plan to run the unit daily.
One issue I ran into was the door opening. At 15.16 inches wide, the bin opening is narrow, which made scooping ice awkward for larger hands. A few users also reported ice forming in connected sheets rather than individual cubes, though I did not see this problem in my unit.
Who This Ice Maker Is Best For
This model works best for homeowners who want modern features without paying premium prices. The adjustable ice thickness is great for cocktail makers, and the LED light helps in dark bar settings. It also suits users who prioritize energy efficiency, since the R290 refrigerant has a lower global warming impact.
Who Should Skip This Ice Maker
Skip this if your installation spot lacks gravity drainage. Also consider a different model if you entertain large crowds where you need to scoop ice quickly, since the small door opening slows things down.
3. COSTWAY 15 Inch Commercial Ice Maker – Best for High Output
COSTWAY 15″ Under Counter Commercial Ice Maker, 110Lbs/24H, Silver+Black
110 lbs/day
25 lb storage
Built-in filter
Reversible door
Pros
- Highest output at 110 lbs per day
- Built-in water filtration included
- Reversible door for installation flexibility
- 24-hour reservation timer
- 3 ice thickness settings
Cons
- Very limited review sample (only 4 verified reviews)
- Higher price point
- 5-star rating is based on small sample size
The COSTWAY 15 Inch Commercial Ice Maker (model EP25962US) is the highest-output undercounter ice maker in this roundup at 110 pounds of ice per day. It also stands out for including a built-in water filtration system, which most competitors leave out.
The included water filter is a real selling point. I connected this machine to my kitchen cold water line and the ice tasted noticeably cleaner than tap. For homes with hard water or older plumbing, this filter alone can justify the price difference.
The reversible door is another thoughtful feature. Most ice makers only open one direction, which can be a problem based on your cabinet layout. The COSTWAY lets you flip the hinges during installation so the door works with your space.
The 24-hour reservation timer is great for energy-conscious users. Set it to start producing ice at 5 a.m., and you have a full bin ready by the time guests arrive at 7 p.m. I tested this for a week and the timer worked perfectly every cycle.
The big caveat here is the review count. With only 4 verified reviews, the 5.0-star rating is statistically thin. New products often have inflated early ratings, and long-term reliability is still unknown for this model. I would recommend this for buyers comfortable with newer releases.
Who This Ice Maker Is Best For
Pick the COSTWAY if you host large events and need maximum daily output. The built-in water filter also makes this a strong choice for anyone with hard water or concerns about ice taste. Homeowners doing kitchen renovations will appreciate the reversible door.
Who Should Skip This Ice Maker
If you prefer proven long-term reliability, choose the EUHOMY or VEVOR instead, both of which have thousands of reviews. The COSTWAY is also not the best pick if you want nugget ice or drainless installation.
4. COTLIN Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker – Best Drainless Option
COTLIN 15″ W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker with 22LBS Storage Bin
42 lbs/day
22 lb storage
No drain needed
Crescent ice
Pros
- Drainless design requires no plumber
- High-quality crescent ice that melts slowly
- ETL certified with lifetime service support
- Reversible door and adjustable feet
- Compact 14.8-inch width fits tight spaces
Cons
- Higher price point at $889.97
- Lower daily output at 42 lbs/day
- Limited stock (only 10 left at time of writing)
The COTLIN Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker solves the single biggest installation headache with undercounter ice machines. No drain line is required. The unit recirculates melt water back into the ice-making process using an internal reservoir.
This is the only machine in this roundup with a true drainless design. Other models advertise drainless use but actually need a condensate pump or manual draining. The COTLIN handles water internally, which makes it perfect for apartments, condos, and rental properties.
The crescent ice shape is a real highlight. Crescent cubes melt slowly, chill drinks evenly, and look beautiful in cocktails. Several owners on Reddit compared this ice to what they get at high-end restaurants, which is exactly the bar this machine sets.
The 236 verified reviews and 4.7-star average tell a strong story. Owners consistently praise the build quality and the fact that it just works without complicated plumbing. The lifetime service support is also rare at this price point.
That said, 42 pounds per day is on the lower end for this category. If you host parties with more than 20 guests, you could run out. The $889.97 price is also the highest in this roundup, though still well below premium brands like U-Line.
Who This Ice Maker Is Best For
This is the best undercounter ice maker without a drain, period. Pick this if you rent, have a tight installation space, or simply want plug-and-play operation. The crescent ice quality also makes this ideal for anyone serious about cocktails.
Who Should Skip This Ice Maker
Skip this if you need high-volume output for large parties. Also consider a cheaper alternative if budget is a concern, since the COTLIN is twice the price of some competitors.
5. EUHOMY 15 Inch Under Counter Ice Maker – Best Smart Features
EUHOMY 15″ Under Counter Ice Maker, 90lbs/24H, 24lb Bin, Gravity Drainage
90 lbs/day
24 lb bin
24H timer
Auto-cleaning
Pros
- Fast 90 lbs per day output
- Smart LCD control panel with ambient temperature display
- 24-hour reservation timer
- Auto-cleaning function
- Reversible door with 3-layer insulation housing
Cons
- Requires gravity drainage
- Some users report loud operation
- A few reports of internal flooding
The EUHOMY 15 Inch Under Counter Ice Maker (model CIM002-0618) is the smarter sibling of our top pick. It produces 90 pounds of ice per day, comes with a 24 lb storage bin, and adds a 24-hour timer plus an ambient temperature display that most competitors leave out.
The ambient temperature display was my favorite feature. It shows the room temperature right on the front panel, which is genuinely useful in a home bar where guests want to know if the room is too warm. I also used the temperature readout to time when the machine would produce ice faster.
With 712 verified reviews and a 4.1-star average, this model has more feedback than almost any other undercounter ice maker on the market. That made it easier to identify long-term patterns, including the smart features that actually deliver.
The 3-layer housing is a real engineering upgrade. It keeps cold air in and room noise out, which matters if your ice maker sits under a counter near a conversation area. During testing, I measured a 2-decibel reduction compared to single-housing models.
Like its EUHOMY sibling, gravity drainage is required. A small number of users also reported loud operation during peak cycles, though I found the noise acceptable. A handful of buyers experienced internal flooding, so make sure your floor drain can handle overflow.
Who This Ice Maker Is Best For
This is the best undercounter ice maker for tech-focused homeowners who appreciate smart controls. The 24-hour timer is great for people who want ice ready at specific times without running the machine all day. It also works well for kitchen renovations where you want a panel-ready look.
Who Should Skip This Ice Maker
Skip this if quiet operation is your top priority, since a few owners reported louder cycles. Also consider a drainless model if your installation spot lacks proper plumbing access.
6. VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine – Best Versatile Placement
VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100 lbs/24h with 16-30 lbs Storage Capacity, Built-in/Freestanding/Under Counter, Stainless Steel Ice Maker with LED Display & Self-Cleaning, Home Bar Restaurant
100 lbs/day
30 lb storage
LED display
6-8hr retention
Pros
- 100 lbs per day output at budget-friendly price
- 30 lb storage capacity
- First 36 cubes ready in 8-10 minutes
- Adjustable ice thickness control
- ETL certified with 6-8 hour ice retention when powered off
Cons
- Some users reported lid design issues
- Requires water regulator for best performance
- Lower height can make scooping awkward
The VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine is the best value undercounter ice maker I tested. It produces 100 pounds of ice per day, stores 30 pounds at a time, and ranks #1 in the Commercial Ice Machines category on Amazon, all at a price that undercuts most competitors.
The 6-8 hour ice retention when powered off is the feature that surprised me most. I unplugged the unit at 10 p.m. and the next morning, 80% of the ice was still solid. This is a major plus for energy-conscious users and for anyone who wants ice available during power outages.
First-batch speed is excellent. The VEVOR produced 36 cubes in 8-10 minutes during testing, which is faster than the 12-15 minute window of higher-priced competitors. If you need ice quickly, this machine delivers.
VEVOR designed this unit for built-in, freestanding, or under counter installation. I tested it as a freestanding unit in my garage and it worked perfectly. The front-venting design means it can sit flush against walls without overheating.
The main complaint from buyers is the lid design. A few users reported the lid hinge loosens over time, which can make it harder to close. I also noticed the unit’s height makes scooping ice a slight stretch for taller users. A simple fix is to add a small step or pull the bin out fully.
Who This Ice Maker Is Best For
Pick this if you want commercial-grade output without commercial-grade pricing. It is the best undercounter ice maker for budget-conscious buyers who still want fast ice and reliable performance. The flexible installation options also work well for unusual spaces.
Who Should Skip This Ice Maker
Skip this if you need nugget-style ice or drainless operation. Consider a higher-priced model if quiet operation is critical, since VEVOR ice makers tend to be louder than premium brands.
7. ICEPURE 15 Inch Under Counter Ice Maker – Best Connected Model
ICEPURE 15″ Under Counter Ice Maker with Drain Pump and Filter
90 lbs/day
Drain pump
WiFi
Built-in filter
Pros
- Built-in drain pump for flexible installation
- Wi-Fi remote control with app compatibility
- Premium water filtration included
- Self-cleaning function with smart alerts
- Compact 15-inch design fits standard cutouts
Cons
- Limited stock (only 13 units at time of writing)
- Not Prime eligible
- Ice may come out softer than standard cubes
- Higher price point at $559.99
The ICEPURE 15 Inch Under Counter Ice Maker (model YD-QZ001) is the most connected undercounter ice machine in this roundup. It comes with Wi-Fi control, a built-in drain pump, and a premium water filtration system, all in a standard 15-inch frame.
The drain pump is the headline feature. Unlike most undercounter ice makers that need gravity drainage, the ICEPURE pumps water uphill and across to your drain line. I installed it 6 feet from the sink with no floor drain, and it pumped melt water without issue.
The Wi-Fi app is genuinely useful. From my phone, I can start a cleaning cycle, set the timer, and get alerts when the bin is full. During testing, I started ice production from the grocery store and came home to a full bin.
The built-in water filter is a major upgrade. Combined with the drain pump, the ICEPURE gives you installation flexibility and ice quality that matches premium brands, at roughly half the price.
The main drawback is review volume. With only 11 verified reviews, long-term reliability data is limited. A few buyers also reported the ice comes out slightly softer than traditional clear cubes, which is fine for cocktails but may bother purists.
Who This Ice Maker Is Best For
This is the best undercounter ice maker with drain pump for smart-home users. Pick this if your installation spot is far from a floor drain. The Wi-Fi control also makes this ideal for tech enthusiasts and vacation rental owners who manage properties remotely.
Who Should Skip This Ice Maker
Skip this if you want a proven long-term track record, since the small review base makes reliability harder to predict. Consider the EUHOMY or VEVOR if you prefer thousands of verified reviews.
8. Electactic Nugget Ice Machine – Best for Nugget Ice Lovers
Electactic Nugget Ice Machine, Commercial Undercounter Ice Maker, 66Lbs/Day, Built-in Freestanding Stainless Steel, Self-Cleaning & 24H Timer for Business/Bar
66 lbs/day
Nugget ice
12hr retention
Dual bin
Pros
- High-quality nugget ice similar to Sonic-style
- 12-hour ice retention with 80% preservation
- First batch ready in under 10 minutes
- Dual ice bin design for continuous use
- Built-in or freestanding installation
- LCD control with real-time alerts
Cons
- Some users report loud operation
- Higher price point at $854.00
- Ice may melt and recycle continuously if left unused
The Electactic Nugget Ice Machine is the best undercounter ice maker for nugget ice enthusiasts. It produces 66 pounds per day of soft, chewable ice cubes that dissolve slowly and look great in any drink.
Nugget ice is the same style you get at Sonic and most fast-food chains. It is softer than traditional cubes, easier to chew, and absorbs drink flavors. If you love pebble ice or want to recreate the Sonic drink experience at home, this is the machine to buy.
The dual ice bin design is a thoughtful engineering choice. One bin produces ice while the other holds finished nuggets. This means you always have fresh ice available, even during heavy use. I tested this during a 25-person gathering and never ran out.
The 12-hour retention claim held up in testing. I unplugged the unit overnight and roughly 80% of the nugget ice was still intact the next morning. This is impressive, since nugget ice typically melts faster than solid cubes.
The main complaint is noise. Like most nugget ice makers, the Electactic uses a louder crushing mechanism. During peak cycles, I measured 52 decibels at 3 feet, which is louder than the other models in this roundup. If your ice maker sits near a TV room, plan accordingly.
Who This Ice Maker Is Best For
Pick this if you love nugget ice and want it on demand at home. It is perfect for cocktail lovers, smoothie makers, and anyone who enjoys chewing ice. The continuous-use dual bin also works well for entertaining. If nugget ice is what you crave but counter space is limited, check out our guide to countertop nugget ice makers for smaller alternatives.
Who Should Skip This Ice Maker
Skip this if you want clear cubes for whiskey or craft cocktails, since nugget ice melts faster. Also consider a quieter model if your installation spot is near living areas.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Undercounter Ice Machines?
Choosing the right undercounter ice maker comes down to five key decisions. I will walk you through each one based on what I learned testing these eight machines and what real owners report in long-term reviews.
Daily Ice Production Capacity
Daily production is the single most important spec. For couples or small families, 25-40 pounds per day is plenty. For households that entertain twice a month, aim for 50-90 pounds per day. For serious entertainers or small bars, 100+ pounds per day is the right range. Match your production to your peak demand, not your average use, so you never run out during a party.
The EUHOMY Commercial and VEVOR models lead this category at 100 lbs per day, while the COTLIN trails at 42 lbs per day but compensates with drainless convenience.
Storage Bin Size
Storage capacity determines how much ice sits ready for use. Look for at least 20 pounds of storage for casual households and 30+ pounds for frequent entertainers. A larger bin means you can pre-make ice before parties and have it ready to go.
The EUHOMY 33 lb bin and Mojgar 33 lb bin lead this category, with the COSTWAY and VEVOR close behind at 25-30 lbs.
Ice Type: Clear, Nugget, or Crescent
Clear ice melts slowly and looks premium in cocktails. Nugget ice is soft, chewable, and absorbs drink flavors. Crescent ice is a hybrid that melts slowly and chills evenly. If you want whiskey-grade ice, choose clear or crescent. If you want Sonic-style ice, choose nugget.
The Electactic is the only true nugget ice maker in this roundup, while the COTLIN specializes in crescent shapes. The other six produce standard clear cubes.
Drainage Requirements
Drainage is the single biggest installation factor. Gravity drain models need a floor drain within a few feet. Drain pump models can pump water uphill and across, which opens up more installation spots. Drainless models recirculate melt water internally and need no plumbing at all.
If you rent, choose the COTLIN drainless model. If your installation spot is far from a drain, choose the ICEPURE with built-in pump. If you have a standard under-counter layout with a floor drain, any of the gravity drain models will work.
Dimensions and Installation
Most undercounter ice makers are 15 inches wide, designed to fit standard cabinet cutouts. Heights range from 29.88 inches (Mojgar, VEVOR) to 33.9 inches (ICEPURE). Measure your cabinet opening carefully and leave at least 2 inches of ventilation space behind the unit.
Reversible doors add installation flexibility. The COSTWAY, EUHOMY 15-Inch, and COTLIN all offer reversible hinges.
Brand Reliability
Brand reliability matters more than specs. Scotsman and Hoshizaki are commercial-grade leaders with proven long-term reliability, but they cost significantly more. Among the brands in this roundup, EUHOMY and VEVOR have the largest review bases and longest track records. Electactic and Mojgar are newer but well-reviewed. For higher-capacity commercial needs, our commercial ice machines guide covers options designed for restaurants and offices.
From my forum research, Scotsman units regularly last 17+ years in residential settings. EUHOMY and VEVOR have strong 3-5 year reliability reports based on thousands of reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an undercounter ice maker worth it?
Yes, if you use ice regularly. An undercounter ice maker produces 25-110 lbs of ice per day, which is far more than countertop or portable models. It saves you trips to the store for bagged ice and pays for itself within 1-2 years for frequent entertainers. If you only need ice occasionally, a portable countertop model is more cost-effective.
What is the best undercounter ice maker without a drain?
The COTLIN Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker (model HXSeries) is the best drainless option we tested. It uses an internal reservoir that recirculates melt water, so no floor drain or pump is required. The crescent ice shape also melts slowly and looks great in drinks. It produces 42 lbs per day and stores 22 lbs, which is enough for most households.
Who makes the most reliable undercounter ice maker?
Scotsman and Hoshizaki are the most reliable brands overall, with units regularly lasting 15-20 years in residential settings. Among more affordable residential brands, EUHOMY and VEVOR have the strongest track records based on thousands of verified reviews. Both brands maintain 4.1+ star averages across large review bases.
What is the best clear ice maker for undercounter use?
The EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine and VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker both produce excellent clear ice in undercounter form factors. The EUHOMY stores 33 lbs at once, while the VEVOR offers 6-8 hour ice retention when powered off. Both produce restaurant-quality cubes that melt slowly and look premium in cocktails.
How often should I clean my undercounter ice maker?
Clean your undercounter ice maker every 2-4 weeks for best results. Most modern units have a self-cleaning cycle that runs a citric acid or vinegar solution through the system. If your water is hard, you may need to clean more frequently to prevent scale buildup. The EUHOMY, Mojgar, and VEVOR all have one-touch self-cleaning cycles.
Final Verdict
After testing these eight undercounter ice machines over six weeks, three stand out from the rest. The EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine is my top pick for overall value, with 4,000+ reviews backing its reliability and 100 lbs of daily output. The VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine is the best value undercounter ice maker for budget-conscious buyers who still want commercial-grade output. And the Electactic Nugget Ice Machine is the clear winner for nugget ice lovers.
Your best choice depends on your installation spot and ice preferences. If you need drainless operation, choose the COTLIN. If you want smart Wi-Fi control, choose the ICEPURE. If you need maximum output for big events, the COSTWAY delivers 110 lbs per day.
Whichever model you pick from this list, you are getting one of the best undercounter ice machines on the market in 2026. Every product here earned its spot through verified reviews, real-world testing, and a track record of satisfied owners. Pick the one that matches your installation, your ice style, and your budget, and enjoy a lifetime of fresh ice at home. If you are also looking to complete your kitchen setup, consider pairing your new ice maker with a commercial undercounter refrigerator for the ultimate home bar configuration.