Countertop ice makers cost $80–$200 and produce 26–40 lbs of ice per day; undercounter models start at $500. Amazon and Walmart carry the most options, with frequent 20–30% discounts.
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About Portable Ice Maker
Popular models: GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker ($549, nugget ice), Frigidaire EFIC189 ($109, bullet ice), NewAir AI-215SS ($149, stainless), and hOmeLabs 40-lb ($119).
Best deal: The Frigidaire EFIC189 ($79–$99 at Amazon) makes 26 lbs of bullet ice per day and is the best-reviewed portable ice maker under $100 — fast 7-minute cycle time.
Premium pick: The GE Profile Opal 2.0 ($549) makes chewable nugget ice (the Sonic-style kind) with a side tank that extends production — popular for cocktails and soft drinks.
Where to Buy Portable Ice Maker
Amazon, Walmart, Home Depot, Best Buy, Lowe's The comparison above covers the major retailers so you can review options before buying.
Buyer Questions
Do portable ice makers need a water line?
No — countertop models have a reservoir you fill manually; only built-in undercounter models require a plumbed water line.
How quickly does a countertop ice maker produce ice?
Most models make the first batch in 7–15 minutes; they cycle continuously and produce 26–40 lbs per day in good conditions.
Do portable ice makers keep ice frozen?
No — they make ice but don't freeze it. Unused ice melts back into the reservoir and is reused; you'll want a cooler or freezer for storage.
What's nugget ice and why is it popular?
Nugget ice is soft, chewable, and absorbs drinks — made famous by Sonic Drive-In; the GE Opal and Opal 2.0 are the most popular home nugget ice makers.