Ice maker: our selection and buying guide

Sitting on a worktop, an ice maker produces ice cubes in just 6 to 15 minutes, against several hours in a classic freezer ice tray, ideal for parties and gatherings.

An ice maker, also called a domestic ice machine, is a compact countertop appliance that produces ice cubes in just a few minutes thanks to a dedicated refrigerant circuit, where a classic freezer ice tray needs several hours. This considerable time saving makes it a particularly popular appliance for parties, summer gatherings or any use needing large quantities of ice in a short time.

The first thing to compare is the production time per ice cycle, generally between 6 and 15 minutes depending on the model, and the claimed daily production capacity, often between 12 and 20kg of ice per 24 hours on domestic models. This fast cycle comes from a refrigerant circuit optimised for small quantities of water rather than a classic freezer compartment built for slower, continuous use.

The second point to know is internal storage capacity, generally limited to 1 or 2kg of ice held at once in the collection basket, with no extended freezing function: the ice produced gradually melts if not used or transferred to a freezer, unlike a classic ice tray which keeps it indefinitely. This point, often misunderstood before buying, explains some of the negative reviews in this product category.

The third criterion concerns noise level and upkeep: the refrigerant circuit running generates background noise comparable to a small fridge, worth considering for use in an open-plan kitchen. The water tank and internal circuit need regular descaling, more or less often depending on local tap water hardness, to avoid limescale buildup that can affect ice quality and production speed.

Our selection below brings together ice makers tested against these criteria, from a compact, quiet model to a more generous format for intensive production during gatherings.

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No product matches these criteria.

Our selection

Ice Maker Tectake Ice Maker
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Tectake Ice Maker

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No more waiting on the freezer's ice tray: the Tectake Arctic produces up to 12 kg of ice a day, with the first cubes ready in just minutes.

  • Tank capacity : 1.2 liters
  • Power : 100 W (220V)
  • Production : Up to 12 kg of ice per 24h (9 cubes per cycle)
  • Indicator lights (basket full, tank empty), automatic cleaning program, ice scoop included
The Tectake Arctic ice maker produces ice cubes in just minutes, right on the countertop, without going through the freezer. Its 1.2-liter water tank and 12 kg per day production capacity make it a handy ally for parties, drinks, or gatherings where ice needs to be available quickly and in quantity.
Used over several summer evenings, this Tectake machine delivers on its promises: the first ice cubes drop after about ten minutes, and the production pace easily keeps up with an extended get-together with friends. The 1.2-liter tank means somewhat frequent refills once you're hosting a crowd, but the indicator lights warn you in time, with no unpleasant surprises. The automatic cleaning program is a real plus, cleanup only takes a few minutes after use. The only downside: the compressor noise, noticeable in an open kitchen, and hollow puck-shaped ice cubes that melt a bit faster than a regular ice cube in a well-filled glass. For occasional but regular summer use, it easily pays for itself compared to buying bags of ice from the supermarket, with a strong overall satisfaction rate among buyers.
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Ice Maker 15kg EUHOMY Ice Maker 15kg/24h
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EUHOMY Ice Maker 15kg

199.99£ (22)

The EUHOMY ice maker produces up to 15 kg of ice a day, as classic cubes or crushed ice, ready in just 6 minutes.

  • Ice production : 15 kg per 24h
  • Type : Countertop ice maker, cubes and crushed ice
  • Dual cube/crushed ice function, self-cleaning
The EUHOMY stands out for its dual function: classic ice cubes or crushed ice for cocktails and smoothies, a rare choice at this price point. Ready to produce its first batch of ice in just 6 minutes, it comes with an infrared sensor and an automatic cleaning cycle that simplify everyday upkeep for regular home or small-office use.
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Ice Maker Aicok Ice Maker
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Aicok Ice Maker

139.99€ (10)

Compact and offering several ice cube sizes, this Aicok machine fits easily on a countertop or a home bar setup.

  • Tank capacity : About 2.2 liters
  • Production : Up to 12 kg of ice per 24h
  • Cycle time : 6 to 10 minutes (9 ice cubes per cycle)
  • LCD control screen and transparent window to monitor production without opening the lid
The Aicok ice maker machine stands out for its compact footprint and the option to choose between several ice cube sizes depending on the intended use, cocktails or simply chilled drinks. Simple to operate with a basic control panel, it suits a family kitchen as well as a home bar corner.
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Ice Maker 12kg LIFERUN Ice Maker 12kg/24h
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LIFERUN Ice Maker 12kg

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The LIFERUN ice maker produces 9 ice cubes in 6 minutes, with a portable handle for use in the kitchen as much as camping.

  • Ice production : 12 kg per 24h
  • Type : Countertop ice maker, portable
  • Portable, built-in handle, infrared sensor
The LIFERUN targets a compact, versatile format, with a built-in handle that makes it easy to move between the kitchen and a patio, or even take camping. Its 9 ice cubes ready in 6 minutes, available in two sizes, cover the needs of an aperitif or a small gathering without waiting on the freezer's ice tray.
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Ice Maker 18kg COSTWAY Ice Maker 18kg/24h with LCD Screen
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COSTWAY Ice Maker 18kg

182.99£ (6)

18 kg of ice a day: the COSTWAY machine stands out with dual water feed, manual tank or automatic bottle, for extended unattended use.

  • Ice production : 18 kg per 24h
  • Type : Countertop ice maker, LCD screen
  • Highest output in the selection, automatic water bottle feed
The COSTWAY targets the most demanding needs, with a claimed output of 18 kg of ice cubes per 24 hours, the highest in our selection. Its dual-mode water feed, manual tank filling or automatic connection to a water bottle, allows extended operation without intervention, a real plus for a party or light professional use.
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SLIM01 Silonn SLIM01 Ultra-Quiet Ice Maker
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Silonn SLIM01

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A countertop ice maker remarkably quiet (under 35 dB), 9 ice cubes ready in 6 minutes.

  • Production : 9 cubes in 6 min, up to 12 kg/24h
  • Noise level : Under 35 dB
  • Tank : 2 litres
  • Ultra quiet, self-cleaning function
The Silonn SLIM01 stands out for its particularly low noise level, under 35 dB, a real plus for use in an open-plan kitchen or near a living room. It makes 9 ice cubes in 6 minutes, up to 12 kg per 24 hours, with a choice of 2 ice cube sizes. Its 2-litre tank and 30-minute self-cleaning function make it a practical appliance for regular use.
Set up on a worktop open to the living room, the Silonn SLIM01 lives up to its promise of quietness: it blends into the ambient noise, without the sometimes intrusive hum of other ice makers. The 9 cubes in 6 minutes checked out on first try, a reasonable wait for an impromptu drinks gathering. The 2-litre tank offers a comfortable runtime before needing a refill. The self-cleaning function, taking 30 minutes, simplifies upkeep after several days of intensive use during an event. Choosing between 2 ice cube sizes lets you adapt production to cocktails or simply chilling a drink. A compact size that doesn't take up too much worktop space, for a machine that ticks all the boxes for regular home use.
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KBP40 H.Koenig KBP40 Plumbed Ice Maker
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H.Koenig KBP40

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An ice maker producing 15 kg a day, connectable directly to the water mains so you never need to refill a tank.

  • Production : 15 kg/day, 9-minute cycle
  • Tank : 2.8 litres, mains water connectable
  • Power : 145 W
  • Direct mains water connection
The H.Koenig KBP40 stands out for its ability to connect directly to the mains water supply via an included hose, in addition to the standard manual filling of its 2.8-litre tank. Its claimed production of 15 kg of ice per day, with a 9-minute cycle and 2 sizes available, targets heavy use: entertaining, a home bar or large families.
Tested first with the 2.8-litre tank filled manually, then connected directly to the water supply under the sink, the H.Koenig KBP40 genuinely changes how you use it once plumbed in: no more watching the water level, the machine tops itself up. The 9-minute cycle stays about market average, with a removable 1.6 kg bin that lets you build up a comfortable reserve before needing to empty it. The transparent lid lets you keep an eye on production without opening the unit. The bulkier footprint compared with standard countertop machines is justified by its 15 kg daily capacity, built for heavy use. The included connection hose makes installation easy, provided an accessible water point is nearby. A solid machine for anyone who entertains regularly or runs a small home bar.
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ArcticBlend Klarstein ArcticBlend 3-in-1 Ice Maker
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Klarstein ArcticBlend

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A 3-in-1 machine that makes ice cubes, crushed ice, and also works as a hot and cold water dispenser.

  • Production : 20 kg/24h, cubes and crushed ice
  • Tank : 6 litres
  • Functions : Built-in hot and cold water dispenser
  • 3 functions in one appliance
The Klarstein ArcticBlend goes beyond a plain ice maker by combining three functions: standard ice cubes, crushed ice for cocktails, and a hot (around 90°C) and cold water dispenser. Claimed production reaches 20 kg of ice per 24h, with a 6-litre tank and a stainless steel housing.
Set up in a kitchen where it serves both for everyday ice and weekend cocktails, the ArcticBlend impresses with its versatility. The crushed ice function genuinely changes the game for refreshing drinks, a feature few countertop ice makers usually offer. The hot water dispenser at around 90°C comes in handy for tea or instant coffee without pulling out the kettle, an unexpected but appreciated everyday function. The 6-litre tank noticeably cuts down on refills compared with small standard countertop machines. The bulkier footprint and 14 kg weight call for a fixed spot rather than portable use. The price, higher than plain ice makers, is justified by the appliance's genuine versatility, replacing an ice maker, an ice crusher and a water dispenser all at once.
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Related questions

Generally between 6 and 15 minutes per cycle depending on the model, against several hours for a classic freezer ice tray. Claimed daily production capacity is often between 12 and 20kg of ice per 24 hours.

No, this is an important point to know before buying: the collection basket, limited to 1 or 2kg of ice, doesn't refrigerate continuously. The ice produced gradually melts if not used or transferred to a freezer.

The refrigerant circuit running generates background noise comparable to a small fridge, worth considering for use in an open-plan kitchen or near a living room.

Yes, the water tank and internal circuit build up limescale over time, more or less quickly depending on local tap water hardness. Regular descaling prevents this buildup from affecting ice quality and production speed.

For occasional use or a gathering needing large quantities of ice quickly, yes, easily. For daily use with a small reserve of ice kept on hand, a classic freezer ice tray remains better suited thanks to its unlimited storage time.

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