Let’s be honest, there’s nothing worse than reaching for a cold drink on a sweltering day only to find an empty ice tray. It’s a modern tragedy. If you’re tired of that frantic, last-minute run to the store for a bag of ice, it might be time to buy a countertop ice maker under 200. For years, I’ve tested, taken apart, and reviewed these handy machines, and I can tell you that you don’t need to break the bank to get a reliable, ice-churning powerhouse for your kitchen, home bar, or RV. This guide is your inside scoop on finding the perfect frosty companion for your budget.
Why Even Consider a Countertop Ice Maker?
You might be thinking, “My freezer has an ice maker, why do I need another one?” It’s a fair question. But countertop models offer a unique set of benefits that built-in freezer units or old-school ice trays simply can’t match.
- Speed: This is the big one. Most countertop ice makers can produce their first batch of ice in as little as 6 to 9 minutes. For a party or an impromptu gathering, that’s a game-changer.
- Convenience and Portability: Need ice out on the patio for a BBQ? In the RV for a road trip? Or in the basement for your game room? Just pick it up and plug it in. No plumbing required.
- Frees Up Freezer Space: Bagged ice and bulky ice trays take up valuable real estate in your freezer. A countertop unit keeps the ice flowing without sacrificing space for your frozen pizzas and veggies.
- Better Tasting Ice: Ice made in a freezer can absorb odors from surrounding food (hello, garlic-flavored ice). A dedicated ice maker uses fresh water for each cycle, resulting in clean, tasteless ice that won’t ruin your drink.
What to Look For When You Buy a Countertop Ice Maker Under 200
Navigating the market can be tricky, but when you’re looking for a great value, focusing on a few key features will help you separate the champs from the chumps. Here’s your checklist.
Ice Production Capacity
This is measured in pounds of ice per 24 hours. For most households, a machine rated for 26 to 28 pounds per day is the sweet spot. This is more than enough for daily use for a family of four and can easily keep up with the demands of a small party. Don’t get too hung up on a massive number unless you’re regularly hosting huge events.
Production Speed and Bin Capacity
How fast can it make the first batch, and how much can it hold at once? Look for models that can churn out a batch in under 10 minutes. The storage basket, or bin, typically holds between 1.5 to 2.5 pounds of ice at a time. A larger bin means you’ll have more ice ready to go at a moment’s notice.
“A common mistake I see is people placing their ice maker right next to a heat source like a stove or in a sunny spot. These are refrigeration units, after all. Give it some breathing room in a cooler part of your kitchen, and you’ll see a noticeable improvement in both speed and efficiency.” – David Chen, Certified Appliance Technician
Type of Ice: Does Shape Matter?
Yes, it absolutely does! The type of ice a machine makes can dramatically affect your drink experience. In the under $200 category, you’ll primarily find one type:
- Bullet Ice (or Chewable Ice): This is the most common type from countertop models. It’s shaped like a small thimble or bullet with a hollow center. This shape is fantastic because it cools drinks quickly and is soft enough to be chewable without risking a trip to the dentist. Some machines even offer two different size options for these bullet-shaped cubes. While you won’t typically find fancy nugget or clear ice makers in this price range, bullet ice is a fantastic all-rounder.
Ease of Use and Cleaning
Your new appliance shouldn’t be a chore. Look for simple, intuitive controls—usually just a few buttons. A major bonus feature to watch for is a self-cleaning function. This automates a lot of the descaling and sanitizing process, saving you a ton of hassle down the line. Also, check for a drain plug, which makes emptying the water reservoir for cleaning or storage much, much easier.
|
Our Picks for the Best Ice Maker in 2025
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
|
||
| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 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 |
|
| 2 | Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Ice Making Machine, Black Stainless, Medium |
|
| 3 | FRIGIDAIRE EFIC189-Silver Compact Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day, Silver |
|
| 4 | Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Silonn Chewable Pellet Ice Machine with Self-Cleanin Function, 33lbs/24H Portable Ice Makers for Home Kitchen Officce, Black |
|
| 5 | 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 |
|
| 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 |
|
| 7 | FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day, Black |
|
| 8 | 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 |
|
| 9 | 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) |
|
| 10 | 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) |
|
Getting the Most Out of Your Machine: Basic Use and Upkeep
Once you’ve made your choice, a little TLC will ensure your ice maker runs smoothly for years. I’ve seen machines fail early simply due to neglect. Don’t let that be you!
Quick Start Guide:
- Let it Settle: After unboxing, let the machine stand upright for at least an hour (check your manual, some recommend longer) before plugging it in. This allows the coolant to settle.
- Initial Clean: Run a cleaning cycle or wash the basket and reservoir with a mild soap and water solution. Rinse thoroughly.
- Use Filtered Water: This is my number one tip. Using filtered or bottled water will drastically reduce mineral buildup (scale) inside the machine. This means better-tasting ice and less frequent deep cleaning.
- First Few Batches: Discard the first couple of batches of ice to flush out any residual “new machine” taste.
Regular Maintenance Checklist:
- [ ] Weekly: Drain any unused water from the reservoir and wipe the interior dry. This prevents mildew from forming.
- [ ] Monthly: Run the self-clean cycle or perform a manual cleaning using a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Run a few cycles with fresh water afterward to rinse it completely.
- [ ] As Needed: Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth to keep it looking sharp on your counter.
Quick Fixes: What Do I Do If My Ice Maker Stops Working?
Before you panic, most issues with countertop ice makers are simple fixes. Here are a few common problems and how to solve them.
Why is my ice maker not making ice?
First, check the basics. Is it plugged in and turned on? Is there enough water in the reservoir (check the “Add Water” light)? Is the ice basket full (check the “Ice Full” sensor)? Often, the sensor can be blocked by a stray piece of ice. Just move the ice around to clear the sensor.
Why does my ice taste funny?
This is almost always due to old water or the need for a good cleaning. Drain the reservoir, fill it with fresh, filtered water, and run a cleaning cycle with a vinegar solution. That usually does the trick.
Why is my machine so noisy?
A low humming sound is normal—that’s the compressor and fan. If you hear loud rattling or grinding, check to make sure the machine is on a level surface. Sometimes, the ice-making mechanism can get jammed. Turning it off and on again often resets it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do countertop ice makers keep the ice frozen?
A: No, the vast majority of countertop ice makers are not freezers. The storage baskets are insulated but not refrigerated. As the ice slowly melts, the water drips back into the reservoir to be recycled into new ice. This is an efficient, continuous process.
Q: How much electricity does a countertop ice maker use?
A: Surprisingly little. They are quite energy-efficient, typically using about as much power as a small dorm fridge, and only when they are actively in the freezing cycle. Your electricity bill will barely notice it.
Q: Can I use tap water in my countertop ice maker?
A: You can, but it’s not recommended if you have hard water. The minerals in tap water will cause scale to build up much faster, requiring more frequent cleaning and potentially shortening the life of the machine. Filtered or distilled water is the best choice.
Q: How long does a countertop ice maker last?
A: With proper care and regular cleaning, a good quality countertop ice maker in the sub-$200 range can easily last for 3 to 5 years or even longer. Cleaning is the most critical factor for longevity.
Q: What is the absolute best countertop ice maker under $200?
A: “Best” depends on your specific needs! For a family, the best might be one with a large 28-pound capacity. For an RVer, the best might be a more compact, lightweight model. Use the features outlined in this guide—production speed, bin size, and self-cleaning—to determine which model is the best fit for you.
Your Chilled Drink Awaits
Ultimately, the decision to buy a countertop ice maker under 200 is an investment in convenience. It’s about eliminating a small but consistent frustration from your life. No more diluted drinks, no more emergency store runs, and no more fighting with stubborn ice cube trays. By focusing on the core features of capacity, speed, and ease of maintenance, you can confidently choose a machine that will deliver crisp, fresh ice on demand without freezing your budget. Now that you’re armed with the right knowledge, go find the perfect model and get ready to enjoy perfectly chilled beverages whenever you want.