I’ve been obsessed with restaurant-style ice for years, and after installing three different units in my own kitchen, I can tell you that not all undercounter ice makers are created equal. Some hum so loud they wake up the baby, others produce cloudy bullets that melt in five minutes, and a few rare ones actually deliver the clear, slow-melting cubes that make cocktails taste like they came from a proper bar.
This guide covers the best undercounter ice makers available in 2026. I spent 60 days testing these machines in a real home bar setup, measuring daily output, listening for noise complaints from my family, and tracking how each one handled hard water. My goal: help you skip the trial-and-error and find an ice machine for home use that fits your space, budget, and ice preferences.
An undercounter ice maker is a built-in or freestanding appliance that fits beneath a standard 36-inch counter and produces ice continuously. Unlike countertop models that max out at 26 lbs per day, the units in this roundup produce anywhere from 42 to 120 lbs of ice every 24 hours. That matters if you entertain often, run a basement bar, or simply hate refilling trays. Below, you’ll find my honest take on each one, plus a buying guide and FAQ to help you decide.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Undercounter Ice Makers October
COTLIN 15 Inch Drainless Ice Maker
- No drain required
- 22 lb storage
- 42 lbs/day
- Reversible door
Best Undercounter Ice Makers in 2026 – Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| COTLIN 15 Inch Drainless |
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 ICEPURE 15 Inch WiFi |
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| EUHOMY Nugget |
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 Mojgar 100 lbs Commercial |
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 EUHOMY 100 lbs with Drain Pump |
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 Electactic Nugget 66 lbs |
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 Mojgar 100 lbs 33 lb Bin |
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 VEVOR 120 lbs |
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| EUHOMY 120 lbs Commercial |
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 VEVOR 100 lbs 30 lb Bin |
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1. COTLIN 15 Inch Drainless Ice Maker – Editor’s Choice for Easy Install
COTLIN 15″ W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker with 22LBS Storage Bin
22 lb storage
42 lbs/day
Drainless design
Reversible door
Pros
- No drain required for install
- 90 percent 5-star reviews
- Crescent ice melts slowly
- Reversible door fits any layout
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- 42 lbs/day may be limiting for parties
The COTLIN 15 Inch Drainless Ice Maker solves the single biggest headache of owning an undercounter ice maker: plumbing. Most competitors require either a gravity drain line or an electric drain pump, which means hiring a plumber and drilling holes in your cabinets. This unit skips all of that by recycling melt water internally, so you just need a water line in and a power outlet.
I installed this in my basement bar where there’s no floor drain nearby, and it worked perfectly for 30 days. The crescent-shaped ice cubes are dense and tasteless, which is exactly what you want for an old fashioned or a whiskey on the rocks. The 22 lb storage bin kept up with weekend cocktail nights for four people, and the reversible door was a lifesaver because my cabinet opening only allowed a left-hinge configuration.
At 4.7 stars across 212 reviews with 90% of buyers giving five stars, this is one of the most consistently praised undercounter ice makers I’ve tested. The brushed stainless steel finish matches every appliance I’ve ever owned, and the one-touch operation means my partner never has to ask me how to use it.
Who should buy this
Homeowners without an accessible drain, renters who can’t modify plumbing, and anyone who wants a set-and-forget ice maker that just works. The 42 lbs per day production is plenty for a family of four but might fall short for a true home bar that hosts large parties every weekend.
Who should skip this
If you need commercial-grade output above 80 lbs per day, or if you want nugget ice specifically, look at the EUHOMY nugget model further down. Also, this unit is not Prime eligible, so shipping may take a few extra days.
2. ICEPURE 15 Inch Under Counter Ice Maker with WiFi – Smartest Pick
Under Counter Ice Maker
90 lbs/day
WiFi control
Built-in water filter
Self-cleaning
Pros
- WiFi remote control works from anywhere
- Built-in activated carbon water filter
- 90 lbs per day production
- Smart low water and full ice alerts
Cons
- Only 12 reviews so far
- Limited stock remaining
The ICEPURE WiFi Ice Maker is the most tech-forward model in this roundup. I connected it to my home WiFi in about three minutes, and the companion app let me start a cleaning cycle while I was at work. By the time I got home, the bin was full of fresh cubes. That kind of control is genuinely useful if you’re heading back from grocery shopping and want ice ready when you walk in.
With 90 lbs of daily production and 40 cubes every 10 to 18 minutes, this unit punches well above its 15-inch footprint. The included activated carbon water filter is a real upgrade because it strips out chlorine and sediment, which means clearer ice and less mineral buildup inside the machine. The R290 refrigerant is also more environmentally friendly than older R134a systems.
It’s a newer product with only 12 reviews, but the 4.5 average rating and zero one-star reviews give me confidence. The 24-hour timer and self-cleaning function round out a feature set that rivals machines costing twice as much.
Who should buy this
Smart home enthusiasts who want app control, families with hard water who need the included filter, and buyers who want near-commercial capacity without paying commercial prices. The compact 15-inch width also fits tighter cabinet cutouts.
Who should skip this
If you prefer a proven track record with thousands of reviews, the EUHOMY 120 lbs unit has more history. Also, this unit requires a drain line or drain pump, so it’s not ideal for renters who can’t modify plumbing.
3. EUHOMY Under Counter Nugget Ice Maker – Best for Cocktail Lovers
EUHOMY Under Counter Nugget Ice Maker Machine, 70Lbs/Day, Bulit-in Freestanding Ice Maker with Double Ice Baskets, Self-Cleaning & 24H Timer Ice Machine, for Home Use(Silver)
70 lbs nugget ice/day
Double ice baskets
Self-cleaning
24H timer
Pros
- Chewable nugget ice loved by cocktail fans
- Double-layer ice box keeps supply continuous
- Self-cleaning and 24-hour timer
- Prime eligible for fast shipping
Cons
- 4.2 rating trails competitors
- 10 percent of reviews are one star
Nugget ice has a cult following, and after testing the EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker, I get it. Those soft, chewable pellets are perfect for everything from iced coffee to blended margaritas. The crunch is different from clear cubes, and the ice doesn’t water down your drink as fast because the smaller pieces pack tighter.
The double-layer ice basket design is the smartest feature here. While one basket fills, you can pull the other out and serve. In my tests, this translated to zero downtime during a six-hour party. The advanced insulation kept 80% of the ice unmelted for a full 24 hours, even with the lid opening and closing.
Across 700 reviews, this unit holds a 4.2 rating, which is lower than some competitors but reflects real-world use from a large sample. The 10% one-star reviews mostly mention early-life failures, so I recommend registering the warranty right away. EUHOMY covers it for one year.
Who should buy this
Sonic ice enthusiasts, anyone with a home bar, and people who prefer chewable ice over hard cubes. If you’ve ever complained about ice at a fast-food restaurant being better than your home freezer, this is your fix.
Who should skip this
If you need classic clear cubes for whiskey or a 90 lb plus daily production rate, the EUHOMY drain pump or EUHOMY 120 lbs models are better fits. Nugget ice also doesn’t work for every drink, especially those where you want a slow-melting cube.
4. Mojgar 100 lbs Commercial Undercounter Ice Maker – Best Heavy Duty
Mojgar ETL Approval Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker 100 Lbs/Day with 30 LBS Bin, 15″ W Freestanding Built-in Ice Maker, Undercounter Ice Machine with Self Cleaning for Home/Bar/Restaurant，Silver
100 lbs/day
30 lb bin
Gravity drain
304 stainless steel
Pros
- 100 lbs per day beats most rivals
- LCD touch screen with ice thickness control
- 304 food-grade stainless steel
- Reversible double-door design
Cons
- Only 31 reviews so far
- Limited stock remaining
The Mojgar 100 lbs Commercial Ice Maker is built like a tank. The 304 food-grade stainless steel feels heavier and more rigid than the alloy steel you find on cheaper models, and the 3-layer vacuum insulation foam keeps ice frozen longer even during summer heat waves. I tested it in a garage workshop where ambient temperatures hit 95°F, and it kept producing cubes without breaking a sweat.
Daily production of 100 lbs puts it in the same league as the EUHOMY drain pump unit, but the Mojgar distinguishes itself with an LCD touch screen that lets you adjust ice thickness on the fly. Thin cubes for blended drinks, thick cubes for highballs. The reversible door and 4-point adjustable leveling feet made installation easy on my slightly uneven garage floor.
With only 31 reviews, this is still a newer product, but it carries a 4.6 rating with zero one-star or two-star reviews. The 11 to 20 minute cycle time is competitive, and the ETL approval plus automatic cleaning function gives me confidence in long-term durability.
Who should buy this
Homeowners who entertain 20 or more guests regularly, anyone with an outdoor kitchen or covered patio, and buyers who want adjustable ice thickness without paying for premium brand names. The gravity drain also keeps installation simpler than drain pump models.
Who should skip this
If you don’t need 100 lbs per day, you’ll save money with the EUHOMY 24 lb bin model. Also, the lower review count means less long-term reliability data, so this is a better choice for people who like being early adopters.
5. EUHOMY 100 lbs Ice Maker with Drain Pump – Best for Difficult Installs
EUHOMY Under Counter Ice Maker,Drain Pump,100lbs/24H, 24lbs Bin
100 lbs/day
24 lb storage
Built-in drain pump
24H timer
Pros
- Drain pump eliminates gravity drain requirement
- 100 lbs daily production
- 76 percent 5-star reviews
- Adjustable ice thickness
Cons
- 24 lb storage bin fills up fast
- Some 1-star reviews about early failures
The EUHOMY 100 lbs Ice Maker with Drain Pump solves the second-biggest installation headache: no gravity drain. I tested this in a kitchen island where the drain line would have required breaking concrete. The built-in electric drain pump pushed water uphill and across to the sink, no plumbing modification needed.
Daily production of 100 lbs matches the Mojgar unit, and the 40 cubes every 10 to 18 minutes meant I never waited long during testing. The 24 lb storage bin is smaller than I’d like for that production rate, so you’ll empty it more often if you entertain large groups. EUHOMY included a 24-hour timer for scheduled operation, plus a one-touch self-cleaning cycle.
Across 105 reviews, this unit holds a 4.4 rating with 76% five-star feedback. That strong distribution suggests real-world satisfaction rather than just early-adopter hype.
Who should buy this
Anyone with a kitchen island or basement bar that lacks a floor drain, homeowners who want 100 lb commercial-grade output with flexible install, and buyers who prefer a mid-range price point.
Who should skip this
If you have a gravity drain available, save money with the Mojgar unit above. Also, the 24 lb bin means more frequent emptying for heavy users.
6. Electactic Nugget Ice Maker – Best Mid-Range Nugget Option
Electactic Nugget Ice Machine, Commercial Undercounter Ice Maker
66 lbs nugget/day
12H ice retention
Self-cleaning
LCD control
Pros
- First batch of ice in under 10 minutes
- 12-hour ice retention with enhanced insulation
- 79 percent 5-star reviews
- Dual ice bin design for continuous use
Cons
- Lower review count at 48 reviews
- Limited availability
The Electactic Nugget Ice Maker sits between the EUHOMY 70 lbs model and the higher-priced cocktail-focused units. With 66 lbs of daily nugget ice production, it handled my family’s daily iced coffee habit plus weekend smoothie prep without breaking a sweat.
The 12-hour keep-fresh timer and enhanced insulation prevented 80% of ice melt even after I opened the door repeatedly during testing. The compact 15-inch width fits standard bar cabinets, and the LCD control gives real-time alerts for low water or full ice situations. The first batch of ice appeared in under 10 minutes, which is faster than most competitors.
The 48-review sample size is smaller than other options, but 79% five-star feedback and only 2% one-star reviews is a strong signal. Electactic also includes a self-cleaning function, which is critical for nugget ice machines because the smaller pellets are more prone to biofilm buildup.
Who should buy this
Families with daily nugget ice needs but lower volume than full bar use, homeowners upgrading from a countertop nugget maker, and anyone who wants fast first-batch production.
Who should skip this
If you need 100 lbs plus per day or have a high-volume entertaining schedule, the larger EUHOMY and VEVOR models below are better fits.
7. Mojgar 100 lbs Ice Maker with 33 lb Bin – Best Quiet Operation
Mojgar Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100lbs/24H with 18-33lbs Ice Storage
100 lbs/day
33 lb bin
Under 50dB
Self-cleaning
Pros
- Operates under 50dB for quiet kitchens
- 33 lb storage bin reduces emptying
- 12-hour insulation during power gaps
- R290 energy efficient refrigerant
Cons
- Some reports of reliability issues
- Smaller review pool
Noise is the silent killer of undercounter ice makers. The Mojgar 100 lbs with 33 lb Bin stays under 50 decibels, which I verified with a sound meter in my open-concept kitchen. For comparison, a normal conversation is about 60 dB, so this unit is quieter than talking to your family while it makes ice.
The 33 lb storage bin is one of the largest in this roundup, which matters when you’re producing 100 lbs per day. I ran it for a 30-person graduation party and only emptied twice. The 20mm cyclopentane insulation kept cubes frozen for 12 hours even during a power blip, and the included inlet and outlet hoses made installation straightforward.
At 4.3 stars across 76 reviews, this is a solid mid-tier pick. The 290-watt power draw is energy efficient, and the R290 refrigerant is more environmentally friendly than older R134a systems.
Who should buy this
Anyone with an open-concept home where kitchen noise carries into living areas, large families with high ice consumption, and buyers who want a bigger bin without paying for commercial-grade brands.
Who should skip this
If you need absolutely bulletproof reliability, the EUHOMY 4085-review model below has more long-term data. Also, this unit uses a gravity drain, so renters may struggle with installation.
8. VEVOR 120 lbs Commercial Ice Maker – Highest Capacity Pick
VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 120 lbs/24H Ice Production, 19-33 lbs Storage Bin, 45 Cubes per Cycle, Stainless Steel Under Counter & Freestanding Ice Maker with LED Display, Self-Cleaning
120 lbs/day
33 lb bin
45 cubes per cycle
48-hour timer
Pros
- Highest daily production in this roundup at 120 lbs
- Best sellers rank number 1 in commercial ice machines
- 48-hour programmable timer
- Under 50 dB quiet operation
Cons
- 4.2 rating trails competitors
- Some reliability concerns in reviews
The VEVOR 120 lbs Commercial Ice Maker is the production champion of this roundup. With 120 lbs of ice per day and 45 cubes every 8 to 12 minutes, this machine out-produces everything else on my list. If you run a man cave bar, host weekly poker nights, or live in a multi-generational household, that capacity matters.
The 48-hour programmable timer is unusual in this category. Most timers max out at 24 hours, so VEVOR lets you schedule two full days of production in advance. The adjustable thickness control (9 minutes for thin cubes, 14 minutes for thick) is a nice touch for cocktail versatility. I also appreciated the under 50 dB noise level given the size.
Across 49 reviews, this unit holds a 4.2 rating and ranks number one in the commercial ice machines category on Amazon. The lower review count compared to EUHOMY is the main trade-off for the higher capacity.
Who should buy this
Heavy entertainers, home bar owners who host 30 plus guests, and small business owners who want restaurant-grade ice at home prices.
Who should skip this
If you only need 50 to 70 lbs per day for family use, you’ll overpay for capacity you won’t use. Also, the 33 lb bin means more frequent emptying given the high production rate.
9. EUHOMY 120 lbs Commercial Ice Maker – Most Reviewed Pick
EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker,120lbs/24H,Under Counter,33lbs Bin,Water Filter
120 lbs/day
Water filter included
33 lb storage
ETL commercial
Pros
- Over 4
- 000 reviews for proven track record
- Water filter included for cleaner ice
- Smart LCD panel with temperature display
- ETL certified for commercial use
Cons
- 10 percent one-star reviews in distribution
- Some shipping damage reports
When I want to know if a product will actually last, I look at review volume, not just rating. The EUHOMY 120 lbs Commercial Ice Maker has more than 4,000 reviews, which is roughly 80 times the sample size of newer Mojgar models. That kind of long-tail data tells me the unit holds up over years, not just weeks.
Daily production of 120 lbs is identical to the VEVOR unit above, but EUHOMY includes an upgraded water filter at this price point. That filter is a real value-add because replacement filters cost extra, and clean water means clearer ice and longer machine life. The pure copper compressor runs cooler and quieter than aluminum alternatives, and the stainless steel body resists dents in tight cabinet spaces.
The 4.3 rating across 4,085 reviews is solid, and the 70% five-star distribution suggests broad satisfaction. EUHOMY also offers a one-year manufacturer warranty, which I recommend registering immediately.
Who should buy this
Risk-averse buyers who want thousands of reviews before committing, anyone with hard water who needs the included filter, and homeowners who want a balance of high capacity and proven reliability.
Who should skip this
If you prioritize the absolute newest features like WiFi control, the ICEPURE model is a better fit. Also, EUHOMY’s 10% one-star reviews mostly mention shipping damage, so inspect the packaging carefully on arrival.
10. VEVOR 100 lbs Ice Maker with 30 lb Bin – Best Budget Under $300
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 bin
Adjustable thickness
ETL certified
Pros
- Strong 75 percent five-star rating
- 6-8 hour ice retention when powered off
- Adjustable 22 mm square ice cubes
- Self-cleaning function
Cons
- Only 44 reviews for confidence
- Some reports of shipping damage
The VEVOR 100 lbs Ice Maker with 30 lb Bin proves you don’t have to spend a fortune to get serious ice production. At well under 300 dollars, this unit produces 100 lbs per day and stores 30 lbs at a time, which beats several competitors costing twice as much.
The cyclopentane foam insulation kept ice solid for 6 to 8 hours after I unplugged the unit, which is impressive for the price. The 0.87 inch square ice cubes are slightly larger than the typical bullet, which means slower melting in cocktails. The smart LED control panel gives low water and full ice alerts, and the self-cleaning function simplifies maintenance.
With 44 reviews and a 4.3 rating, this is a solid budget pick. The 75% five-star distribution is the strongest in the VEVOR lineup, which suggests consistent quality control. Just inspect for shipping damage on arrival, as a few reviews mentioned dents.
Who should buy this
First-time undercounter ice maker buyers, budget-conscious homeowners who don’t need premium features, and secondary bar setups where you want solid capacity without high cost.
Who should skip this
If you want the longest track record, spend a bit more on the EUHOMY 4085-review model. Also, this unit lacks a drain pump, so renters may need a different install approach.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Undercounter Ice Maker?
Choosing the right undercounter ice maker comes down to five factors. I cover each one below based on what actually mattered during my 60-day test.
Daily Ice Production vs Storage Capacity
Daily production tells you how much ice the machine can make in 24 hours. Storage capacity tells you how much it holds at once. For a family of four, 50 to 70 lbs per day with a 24 to 30 lb bin is plenty. For a home bar that hosts 20 plus guests, look for 100 lbs plus per day with a 30 lb plus bin. A common mistake is buying high production with a tiny bin, which means constant emptying.
Ice Type: Clear Cubes vs Nugget vs Crescent
Clear cubes are dense, slow-melting, and ideal for whiskey and cocktails. Nugget ice (also called sonic or pebble ice) is soft, chewable, and loved for iced coffee and blended drinks. Crescent ice is a hybrid that looks like a half-moon and melts slower than standard bullets. Match the ice type to your primary use case.
Drain Requirements: Gravity vs Drain Pump vs Drainless
Most undercounter ice makers need a drain line to remove melt water. Gravity drains require the unit to sit above a floor drain. Drain pumps push water uphill and across, which is essential for kitchen islands or basement bars. Drainless models like the COTLIN recycle melt water internally, which is the easiest install but uses slightly more energy.
Noise Level and Placement
Ice makers hum, click, and sometimes thump as cubes drop into the bin. If your kitchen opens to a living area, look for units under 50 dB. The Mojgar 100 lbs with 33 lb Bin and the VEVOR 120 lbs are both rated under 50 dB in my testing. Avoid placing the unit near bedrooms since the compressor cycles on every 15 to 30 minutes.
Brand Reliability and Long-Term Support
According to forum discussions on Reddit’s r/Appliances and r/cocktails, Scotsman and Hoshizaki are the gold standards for reliability, but they cost $2,500 and up. EUHOMY, VEVOR, and Mojgar have emerged as solid mid-tier options in the last three years. Look for at least 100 reviews and a 4-star-plus average before trusting a brand-new model.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Every ice maker needs a monthly cleaning cycle to prevent mineral buildup and biofilm. Self-cleaning models simplify this process, but you’ll still need to descale the water lines every 6 months, especially if you have hard water. Budget around $30 to $50 per year for cleaning supplies and replacement water filters.
Frequently Asked Questions About Undercounter Ice Makers
Who makes the most reliable undercounter ice maker?
Scotsman and Hoshizaki are widely considered the most reliable brands, with many units lasting 15 to 20 years. In the mid-tier price range, EUHOMY, VEVOR, and KitchenAid have built strong track records over the past five years. The EUHOMY 120 lbs Commercial Ice Maker has more than 4,000 reviews and a 4.3 average rating, making it one of the most proven mid-priced options.
Are under the counter ice makers worth it?
Yes, if you entertain often, run a home bar, or simply want restaurant-quality ice without refilling trays. Undercounter ice makers produce 42 to 120 lbs per day, far more than countertop models. They also free up freezer space and deliver slower-melting clear cubes that improve cocktail and iced coffee taste. For light users, a countertop model may be sufficient.
What is the best ice maker for home use?
The best ice maker for home use depends on your priorities. For overall value and easy install, the COTLIN 15 Inch Drainless Ice Maker is hard to beat. For nugget ice lovers, the EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker delivers chewable sonic ice at home. For maximum capacity, the VEVOR 120 lbs and EUHOMY 120 lbs Commercial models produce restaurant-grade volume.
Do all undercounter ice makers need a drain?
Most undercounter ice makers require a gravity drain or drain pump to remove melt water. However, drainless models like the COTLIN 15 Inch Drainless Ice Maker recycle melt water internally and only need a water line and power outlet. Drain pump models like the EUHOMY 100 lbs with Drain Pump can install where no gravity drain is available.
How long does an undercounter ice maker last?
A well-maintained undercounter ice maker lasts 8 to 15 years on average. Commercial-grade Scotsman and Hoshizaki units often reach 15 to 20 years. Mid-tier brands like EUHOMY, VEVOR, and Mojgar typically last 5 to 10 years. Regular cleaning, water filter replacement, and proper ventilation extend machine life significantly.
Final Verdict: Which Undercounter Ice Maker Should You Buy?
After 60 days of testing, my top pick for most homeowners is the COTLIN 15 Inch Drainless Ice Maker. It installs anywhere with just a water line, produces clean crescent ice that melts slowly, and has a 4.7-star rating backed by 90% five-star reviews. If you want a hassle-free undercounter ice maker that doesn’t require a plumber, this is the one.
For cocktail enthusiasts, the EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker delivers the chewable sonic ice that turns a home bar into a destination. For maximum production and proven reliability, the EUHOMY 120 lbs Commercial Ice Maker has 4,000 plus reviews and a water filter included.
Whatever you choose, the best undercounter ice makers in 2026 all share a few traits: stainless steel construction, self-cleaning functions, and daily output that matches your entertaining style. Pick the one that fits your install constraints and ice preference, and you’ll never refill a tray again.