Alright, let’s talk ice. It’s the unsung hero of a great drink, the life of the party, and the one thing you never seem to have enough of right when you need it most. If you’re tired of the mad dash to the store for a bag of ice or the slow, tedious process of filling ice cube trays, you’ve probably thought about how to buy an ice maker at Walmart. As the lead expert here at Ice Maker Best, I’ve tested, tinkered with, and taken apart more ice machines than I can count. I’m here to cut through the noise and give you the real-deal scoop on finding the perfect ice-making companion for your home.
This isn’t just about getting cold cubes; it’s about upgrading your lifestyle. Let’s dive in and find the right machine for you.
Why Do You Even Need a Standalone Ice Maker?
You might be thinking, “My freezer has an ice maker, isn’t that enough?” For some, maybe. But if you’ve ever hosted a backyard BBQ, a holiday gathering, or just have a family that loves iced beverages, you know the built-in freezer unit can’t keep up. It’s like bringing a water pistol to a firefight.
A dedicated ice maker is a game-changer for a few key reasons:
- Speed and Volume: A good countertop model can churn out its first batch of ice in under 10 minutes and produce over 26 pounds of ice in a 24-hour period. Your freezer can’t even come close.
- Convenience: Hosting a party? Just turn it on a couple of hours beforehand. Going on a fishing trip? Make a few batches to fill the cooler. No more last-minute store runs.
- Better Ice Quality: Many standalone units produce “nugget” or “bullet” ice, which is softer, chewier, and cools drinks faster without watering them down as quickly as traditional hard cubes. We’ll get more into that later.
- Portability: Countertop models are a dream. You can take them to the cabin, use them in your RV, or set them up on the patio bar for a party.
The Main Types of Ice Makers You’ll Find
When you start your search to buy an ice maker at Walmart, you’ll primarily encounter a few different styles. Understanding the difference is the first step to making a smart purchase.
Countertop Portable Ice Makers
This is the most popular category by a long shot, and for good reason. These are plug-and-play units that require no permanent installation or water line. You simply fill the reservoir with water, plug it in, and let it work its magic.
- Pros: Highly portable, relatively inexpensive, fast ice production, easy to set up.
- Cons: Limited bin capacity (they don’t keep ice frozen indefinitely, you have to move it to a freezer for long-term storage), requires manual refilling.
- Best For: Most households, renters, RVs, small parties, and anyone who wants on-demand ice without a major commitment.
Undercounter Ice Makers
Think of these as professional-grade units for your home. They are designed to be installed under a counter, just like a dishwasher, and require a dedicated water line and a drain.
- Pros: Produce large quantities of high-quality, often clear ice. Huge storage capacity. Always on and ready to go.
- Cons: Expensive, require professional installation, not portable.
- Best For: Home bars, remodeled kitchens, offices, or anyone who entertains frequently and demands a constant, massive supply of premium ice.
What Features Actually Matter? A No-Nonsense Checklist
It’s easy to get lost in a sea of specs and marketing jargon. I’ve been there. Let’s focus on what truly makes a difference in your day-to-day use.
- Production Capacity (lbs/24 hours): Most countertop models produce around 26-33 lbs per day. Be realistic about your needs. For an average family, 26 lbs is more than enough.
- Bin Capacity: This is how much ice the machine can hold at one time. A larger bin means you have to empty it less often. Most portables hold between 1.5 to 2.5 lbs.
- Cycle Time: How long does it take to make the first batch? Look for models that can produce ice in 6 to 9 minutes. Anything longer, and you start to lose that on-demand convenience.
- Ice Shape: This is a bigger deal than you think! The shape affects how quickly your drink cools and the overall experience. More on this below.
- Self-Cleaning Function: Trust me on this one, you want this feature. Cleaning an ice maker can be a pain. A self-cleaning cycle automates most of the process, saving you time and ensuring your ice is always fresh and taste-free.
- Size and Footprint: Measure your counter space! Some of these units can be surprisingly bulky. Check the dimensions before you click “buy.”
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Our Picks for the Best Ice Maker in 2025
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Silonn Countertop Ice Maker, 9 Ice Cubes in 6 Mins, 26 Lbs in 24 Hrs, Compact Ice Machine with Ice Basket & Scoop, 2 Ice Sizes, Self-Cleaning Ice Maker for Home/Party/Office/Bar/Dorm, Black |
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| 2 | Ice Maker Countertop, 9 Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26 lbs per Day, Ice Machine with 2 Ice Sizes and Self-Cleaning, Portable Ice Maker with Handle for Home, Kitchen, Camping, RV, Office, Black |
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| 3 | FRIGIDAIRE EFIC189-Silver Compact Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day, Silver |
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| 4 | Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Ice Making Machine, Black Stainless, Medium |
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| 5 | FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day, Black |
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| 6 | Silonn Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Pebble Ice Maker with Soft Chewable Ice, One-Click Operation Ice Machine with Self-Cleaning, 33lbs/24H for Home,Kitchen,Office |
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| 7 | Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Silonn Chewable Pellet Ice Machine with Self-Cleanin Function, 33lbs/24H Portable Ice Makers for Home Kitchen Officce, Black |
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| 8 | EUHOMY Nugget Ice Makers Countertop, Pebble Ice Maker Machine with 35lbs/24H Soft Ice, Self-Cleaning Sonic Ice Maker with Ice Scoop&Basket, Pellet Ice Maker for Home/Kitchen/Office(Stainless Steels) |
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| 9 | EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Handle, Ready in 6 Mins, 34lbs Per Day, Removable Top Cover, Auto-Cleaning, Portable Sonic Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Party/RV/Camping (Black) |
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| 10 | Silonn Ice Makers Countertop, 9 Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26lbs in 24Hrs, Self-Cleaning Ice Machine with Ice Scoop and Basket, 2 Sizes of Bullet Ice for Home Kitchen Office Bar Party, Sliver |
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Let’s Talk Ice Shapes: Not All Cubes Are Created Equal
This is where the true ice connoisseur emerges. The type of ice your machine makes dramatically changes your drink experience.
Bullet Ice (or Torpedo Ice)
This is the most common type you’ll find in portable countertop units. It’s shaped like a small cylinder with a hollow center.
- Why it’s great: The hollow shape means more surface area, so it cools your drink down super fast. It’s also a bit softer than a solid cube, making it pleasantly chewable.
Nugget Ice (or Sonic Ice, Pebble Ice)
This is the holy grail for many. It’s made from flaked ice that’s compacted into small, soft, chewable nuggets. It’s the famous ice you get at restaurants like Sonic.
- Why it’s great: It’s incredibly soft and chewable, and it absorbs the flavor of your drink. It’s perfect for sodas, iced tea, and cocktails like a Mint Julep. Finding a model that makes this type of ice can be a real treat when you buy an ice maker at Walmart.
Clear Cube Ice
This is the premium stuff, usually made by undercounter models or more expensive countertop units. These machines freeze water in layers, which pushes out impurities and trapped air, resulting in a crystal-clear, slow-melting cube.
- Why it’s great: It melts much slower, so it won’t water down your fine whiskey or craft cocktail. Plus, it just looks fantastic in a glass.
“The biggest mistake people make is underestimating the importance of cleaning. Mineral buildup from tap water is the number one enemy of any ice maker. A self-cleaning function isn’t a luxury; it’s essential for longevity and taste.” – John Carter, Veteran Appliance Technician
Quick Maintenance Guide to Keep Your Machine Humming
Your ice maker is a workhorse, but it needs a little TLC to keep producing clean, fresh-tasting ice.
- Drain and Wipe: At least once a week, drain any unused water from the reservoir and wipe the interior dry. This prevents mildew from forming.
- Run a Cleaning Cycle: At least once a month (or more if you have hard water), run the self-cleaning cycle. You can use a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar, or a dedicated ice machine cleaning solution.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After running a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a solution, run 2-3 cycles with fresh water to rinse out any residual taste.
- Use Filtered Water: If you can, always use filtered or bottled water. It dramatically reduces mineral scale buildup and results in clearer, better-tasting ice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some of the most common questions I get from people looking to buy their first ice maker.
Q: How much does a good portable ice maker cost at Walmart?
A: You can find reliable, well-reviewed countertop ice makers ranging from about $90 to $150. More advanced models, especially those that produce nugget ice, can cost upwards of $400 or more.
Q: How long do countertop ice makers last?
A: With proper care and regular cleaning, a good quality countertop ice maker should last you anywhere from 3 to 5 years. The key is consistent maintenance to prevent mineral buildup and keep the components running smoothly.
Q: Do I need a water line for a portable ice maker?
A: No, and that’s their biggest advantage. Portable countertop models do not require a dedicated water line or drain. You simply fill a reservoir inside the machine with water manually.
Q: How often should I clean my ice maker?
A: A full cleaning cycle should be run at least once a month. However, it’s a good practice to drain the water reservoir and wipe it down weekly, especially if you don’t use it every day.
Q: Can I use tap water in my ice maker?
A: Yes, you can use tap water. However, if you live in an area with hard water (high mineral content), it will cause scale to build up more quickly inside your machine. This can affect performance and the taste of the ice. Using filtered or distilled water is highly recommended for best results.
The Final Verdict
Choosing to buy an ice maker at Walmart is a fantastic step towards convenience and better beverages. It’s an affordable luxury that you’ll quickly find you can’t live without. By focusing on your actual needs—how much ice you use, where you’ll put the machine, and what kind of ice you love—you can easily navigate the options and pick a winner. Forget the frantic ice runs and the disappointment of an empty ice tray. Your personal, endless supply of perfect ice is just a smart purchase away.