The Best Undercounter Ice Makers Of 2023

ByAaron Jerez

Are you tired of having to refill ice trays constantly? Not to mention the struggle to deliver cold beverages during parties or whenever a horde of thirsty kids come running into your kitchen. 

To ensure that you have enough ice whenever you need it, why not invest in an undercounter ice machine? There are many different ice makers to choose from. However, to get your money’s worth, make sure you select the best undercounter ice maker in the market. 

At A Glance:

What Are the Best Undercounter Ice Makers?

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing among the best undercounter ice makers. Design, functionality, budget, and added technologies should all factor in your final decision.  

Not sure where to start? Check out our list below!

1. Whirlpool 15 in. 50 lb. Built-In Ice Maker in Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel

Overview

The Whirlpool 15-inch Built-In Ice Maker ensures you’ll never run out of fresh ice. It has a 25-pound ice storage capacity but can make up to 50 pounds of ice daily.

The sleek ice maker comes with convenience features, including clear ice technology, a self-cleaning cycle, electronic touch controls, LED interior lighting, and a reversible door.

This ice maker always looks sparkling clean with a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel door.

Highlights

  • Enjoy great-tasting ice. Clear ice technology removes gasses and impurities to produce fresh, crystal-clear ice cubes.

  • Always have ice handy. Apart from a large storage bin that can store 25 lb. of ice, there’s also a “Fast Ice” option that speeds up ice production.

  • Get regular cleaning reminders. A handy indicator will let you know when to activate the self-cleaning cycle to remove mineral scale buildup.

  • Install wherever you want. You can set it up as an under-counter ice maker or a freestanding ice maker (*within 100 feet of a drain).

  • Easy to use. With electronic touch controls, you can easily navigate through the different options. 

Pricing

Current Price: $1,934

With a sleek design and convenience features, the Whirlpool 15-inch Ice Maker is reasonably priced compared to other premium built-in ice makers. There’s also no beating the large ice bin that delivers clear ice whenever you want. 

Bottom Line

If you frequently host parties or have thirsty kids at home, the Whirlpool 15-inch Built-In Ice Maker will be a good investment. It’s one of the best when it comes to ice quality and ice production speed. 

2. EdgeStar IB120SS Built-In Ice Maker, 12 lbs, Stainless Steel and Black

Overview

The EdgeStar IB120SS Built-In Ice Maker was designed with versatility in mind. You can install it under your counters or as a freestanding ice maker in your RV or boat. The classic black design and stainless steel door will match any kitchen aesthetic.  

The compact ice maker has a total capacity of 6 pounds, with up to 12 pounds of crescent ice produced daily. It’s enough to meet the daily ice needs of your home. Other notable features include an auto shut-off feature, a reversible door, and freezer functionality. 

Top Features

  • Set it up anywhere. This ice machine doesn’t need a drain line or gravity drain to operate, so you can place it wherever you like.

  • Have frozen ice 24/7. There is a functioning freezer component, so your crescent-shaped ice cubes will never melt.

  • A no-fuss experience. The removable ice bin and ice scoop remove minor hassles so you can get your ice easily.

  • Straightforward controls. You can easily switch the ice maker on to produce ice, and it’ll shut down automatically when the job is done.

  • Easy and convenient installation. The portable design of this ice maker allows for a quick installation process.    

Pricing

Current Price: $459

The EdgeStar IB120SS is one of the best budget-friendly built-in ice makers. It can produce great-tasting crescent ice without breaking the bank. 

Wrap Up

For a small family, the EdgeStar IB120SS Built-In Ice Maker is enough to meet your daily ice needs at home. The compact and portable design also means you can bring it along on adventures on the road or out in the water. 

3. Viking Professional 5 Series 15 Inch Panel Ready Ice Maker

Overview

The Viking Professional 5 Series 15-inch Built-In Ice Maker allows you to enjoy restaurant-style ice in the comfort of your own home. It has a 26-pound ice storage capacity, with total ice production at 80 pounds per day.

Despite running like a commercial ice maker, this premium appliance is equipped with energy-efficient and water-saving features. This includes a water quality sensor, a self-closing door, and LED indicator lights. The undercounter ice machine also has ultra-quiet operation for your comfort. 

Benefits

  • Elevate your drinks with restaurant-style ice. This ice maker produces soft, chewy nugget ice for your beverages. 

  • Enough ice for your entertaining needs. With this ice maker in your kitchen or outdoor patio, you’ll never run out of clear ice.

  • Fits seamlessly in your kitchen. As an undercounter ice maker, it’ll sit flush with your cabinets and other appliances.

  • Flexible installation. You can opt for a gravity drain or a built-in drain pump, a stainless steel door, or a custom wood panel.

  • Easy to maintain. The user-friendly control panel has clear indicators for ice status, water condition, and maintenance needs.  

Pricing

 Current Price: $5,999

 As a high-end appliance, the Viking Professional 5 Series 15-inch Built-In Ice Maker does come with a premium price tag. However, compared to other undercounter ice machines, it comes with energy-efficient technologies that can pay off in the long run. 

My Take

The Viking Professional 5 Series 15-inch Built-In Ice Maker ticks all the boxes in terms of quality, design, and technology. This is best for those who need large volumes of ice at any given time.

4. Thor Kitchen 15 Inch Built In Ice Maker in Stainless Steel

Overview

The Thor Kitchen 15 Inch Built In Ice Maker is unmatched when it comes to power and performance. It can produce 50 pounds of cube ice per day, with a large storage bin that can simultaneously store 25 pounds of ice. The auto shut-off feature ensures that there is no overflow when total ice capacity has been reached.

In terms of design, this attractive ice maker has a stainless steel door, a professional handle, and flexible installation options. A control panel with different buttons and an LED indicator makes this undercounter ice maker easy to use and maintain.

Highlights

  • Change the ice cube size to fit your beverage. Go from large to small cube ice with just one push of a button.

  • Constantly producing ice for your needs. With steady production and ample storage, you’ll always have fresh ice on hand.  

  • Easy monitoring. There’s an LED indicator that shows different colors to indicate ice status and a blue LED light for interior visibility.

  • Consider more location options. The built-in drain pump gives you more freedom when installing this versatile ice maker.

  • Added convenience. The included ice scoop makes dispensing easier, while the auto defrost feature makes maintenance a breeze. 

Pricing

Current Price: $1,799 

Given all the professional features included in the Thor Kitchen 15-inch Built-In Ice Maker, you’ll be surprised by its reasonable price. More than that, it also has Energy Star and UL certifications to help decrease your energy consumption.   

Bottom Line

When looking for an excellent undercounter ice maker, this 15-inch model from Thor Kitchen should be considered. The premium design and top-notch ice quality make this a great addition to an entertainer’s home. 

5. KitchenAid 29-lb Drop-Down Door Built-In Cubed Ice Maker, Stainless Steel with PrintShield

Overview

With the KitchenAid 18-inch Automatic Ice Maker, you’ll always be able to serve guests deliciously cold drinks. It has the ability to produce 29 pounds of ice cubes each day. There is also a deep storage bin with an ice scoop that can hold up to 35 pounds of ice.

Unlike many undercounter ice makers, it has a drop-down door. This allows for seamless integration in your kitchen—no awkward spaces due to a side hinge. There is also ease of use thanks to simple controls and convenient cleaning options.

Top Features

  • Impress guests with perfect ice cubes. Clear ice technology allows this ice maker to create uniformly shaped cubes each and every time.

  • No unsightly gaps. The undercounter ice maker is designed to be fully flush with surrounding cabinetry and appliances.  

  • Convenient access to ice cubes. The drop-down door allows you to access the large-capacity ice storage bin easily.

  • Routine maintenance is a breeze. The Affresh® ice machine cleaner, self-clean cycle, and auto-defrost features make for easy cleanup.

  • Works well with your kitchen layout. The built-in drain pump means you can install this ice maker in the best possible location (*within 100 feet of the dedicated water line) 

Pricing

Current Price: $2,744

The KitchenAid 18-inch Automatic Ice Maker sits comfortably in the mid-price range. It has more premium features than budget-friendly ice makers. You’ll also be pleased to know that this undercounter ice maker can go toe to toe with pricier models. 

Wrap Up

With plenty of attractive features, this KitchenAid model makes the cut as one of the best undercounter ice machines. It goes above and beyond what is from a cooling system. A large capacity to store uniform ice cubes, self-cleaning modes, and flush installation make this KitchenAid ice maker worth the investment. 

6. Scotsman 15 Inch Brilliance Outdoor Ice Machine in Stainless Steel – SCN60GA-1SS

Overview

Cold drinks are not enough for at-home mixologists — you’ll want gourmet ice to go with your delicious blends. This is where the Scotsman Ice Maker comes in. It uses crushed ice to create nugget ice, which is softer and chewier than regular ice cubes. The ice maker can make up to 80 pounds of ice daily with a max capacity of 26 pounds.

Design-wise, this undercounter ice maker has a sleek door with a concealed hinge. It can be fitted with a custom wood panel to match your kitchen cabinetry. For under-the-counter, this ice maker requires a drain line. You can also set it up for outdoor use as a freestanding ice maker with a gravity drain. 

Benefits

  • With a user-friendly control panel, even the smallest members of your family can use this ice maker.  

  • Easily detect ice machine status. There are light indicators to show if the power is on, if there’s no water, or if it’s time to clean.

  • It is more efficient than other ice makers and uses 40% less energy and 50% less water.

  • Reduce risk of ice melts. The self-closing door helps keep your ice cubes intact and safe from hot air.

  • Flexible placement. Installation is quick and easy whether you decide to place it indoors or outdoors. 

Pricing

Current Price: $5,029

This Scotsman model has everything you would want in an ice maker. In exchange, you’ll have to pay a pretty penny for it. But if you feel these are features you can’t miss out on, it will be a worthwhile investment. 

My Take

You can definitely see the difference when you get the Scotsman 15-inch Brilliance Nugget Ice Machine. You’ll have a sufficient supply of gourmet ice that brings your beverages to the next level. 

7. Perlick ADA Compliant Series 15 Inch Outdoor Undercounter Ice Maker

Overview

The Perlick 15-inch ADA Series Clear Ice Maker can make 55 pounds of ice per day, with a storage capacity of 22 pounds. More than that, this model uses unrivaled ice technology to produce slow melting and crystal-clear ice cubes.

With Perlick’s 100-year history in craftsmanship, you’ll find that this undercounter ice maker has been designed with your accessibility and convenience in mind. It is ADA-compliant with easy-to-access switches and easily-disassembled water fixtures. 

Highlights

  • A unique drinking experience. The top hat ice cubes have a flawless look and taste that will elevate your beverages. 

  • No impurities or contaminants. The crystal clear, clean ice cubes are also engineered to melt slower to prevent watering down your drinks.

  • Ideal placement in your home. You can set up this ice maker indoors or outdoors, wherever is most conducive to hosting family and friends.  

  • Safe and easy to use for everyone. With ADA compliance, nobody is limited from using this undercounter ice maker.

  • Customize the look of your ice maker. You can opt for a stainless steel door or a panel-ready door that’s suitable for your hidden appliance design. 

Pricing

Current Price: $4,671

The Perlick ADA-Compliant 15-inch Outdoor Undercounter Ice Maker can be found in the higher pricing tier.

Although there are many cheaper under counter ice makers in the market, you can have peace of mind knowing the brand’s track record when it comes to design, craftsmanship, and innovation. 

Bottom Line

The Perlick 15-inch Undercounter Ice Maker can maximize ice production and storage while, at the same time, complying with safety and accessibility standards. It can do so by combining innovative ice-making technology with the brand’s extensive history of design and craftsmanship. 

8. GE 15 Inch Panel Ready Undercounter Ice Maker – UNC15NPRII

Overview

The GE 15-inch Panel Ready Built-In Nugget Ice Maker is designed to meet your specific needs. You can opt for a freestanding ice maker or built-in installation, a stainless steel door, or a custom panel to match your cabinets.   

Inside, a large storage bin holds up to 26 pounds of ice. You’ll never run out, considering that this model can churn out up to 50 pounds in one day. Notable features include Wi-Fi connectivity, LED light indicators, an auto shut-off feature, and a sturdy ice scoop. 

Top Benefits

  • Enhance the taste of your drinks. The nugget ice cubes are delightful to chew on since they absorb the flavor of any liquid.

  • Regular reminders for cleanup. An LED indicator will light up when it’s time to clean your undercounter ice maker.

  • Use it from anywhere. With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can easily control and monitor the settings of your ice maker via your smartphone.  

  • Efficient ice production. Your ice maker will automatically shut off when the storage bin reaches max capacity.

  • Suitable for outdoors. This UL-listed model makes it safe for your bar or kitchen setup.   

Pricing

Current Price: $3,413

If you have additional budget, it may be worth splurging just a bit more for the GE 15-inch Panel Ready Built-In Ice Maker.

It’s a more premium purchase for sure, but you’re getting a lot in return, including a customizable design, a ton of convenience features, and a large storage capacity. 

Wrap Up

For those who appreciate customizability and connectivity, the GE 15-inch Nugget Ice Maker may be a suitable choice. Even just considering the ice production capability of this model, it already becomes worthy of the best undercounter icemaker title. 

What Is the Best Undercounter Ice Maker? 

For the best ice maker, you’ll want to look for a model that can produce a large volume of ice and a large bin to store ice. This is so that you always have enough ice whenever you need it.

In addition, the best ice makers have innovative technologies that enhance their design, efficiency, convenience, and accessibility. 

Choosing the Best Ice Maker for Your Needs

When looking at different ice makers, make sure you have a good idea of how much ice you’ll need each day.

Ice production, speed, and capacity should be part of your consideration for large families or households that regularly host.

Design, installation flexibility, and drain requirements are essential elements to consider

Last but not least, convenience features can make all the difference when it comes to cleaning and maintenance.

 With all these things considered, you’ll be able to find the best undercounter ice maker for your home. 

Similar Posts