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If you rely on a steady supply of ice for entertaining, cocktails, or daily household use, an undercounter ice maker can free up freezer space and deliver commercial-style cubes on demand. You want a unit that produces enough ice per day, fits cleanly under your counter, and is straightforward to install and maintain. This guide shortlists the seven best undercounter ice makers that meet those needs, focusing on output capacity, installation requirements, water connection options, and ease of upkeep. Read on to find the right undercounter ice maker that matches your kitchen layout and daily ice demand.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Manitowoc UYF-0140A NEO |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Erivess HA407S-ES Ice Maker |  |
| Top Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | COTLIN Under Counter Ice Maker HXSeries |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | EUHOMY Commercial Under-Counter Ice Maker IM-02 |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker SSX100 |  |
EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker
| Ice Production per Day | 100 pounds |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 120 pounds |
| Ice basket capacity | 33lbs |
| Wattage | 253 watts |
| Voltage | 110 volts |
This EUHOMY undercounter ice maker is designed for steady, small-to-medium commercial use or heavy home entertaining, producing up to 120 lb of cube ice per day and holding about 33 lb in its storage bin. It uses a copper compressor and stainless steel exterior for durability and includes an upgraded water filter, adjustable ice-thickness timing, an LCD control panel with a 24-hour timer, and a one-touch self-cleaning mode to simplify maintenance. The curved viewing lid and three-layer insulation help keep ice clear and reduce melt, while gravity drainage and a recommended daily drain routine mean it needs a permanent water/drain hookup and basic user upkeep. Power draw is modest for the category and the unit is ETL certified for commercial settings, so it fits undercounter installations in bars, cafés, or busy home kitchens. Expect occasional cleaning and routine draining to maintain output and water quality, and verify installation clearance and drain access before buy.
Best for: Buyers who want a dependable undercounter ice machine that can support a small bar, café, or an active household and who prioritize steady daily production and commercial-grade construction.
Less Ideal for: People who need a completely portable countertop unit or those without access to a dedicated water supply and drain should consider other options.
- High daily ice production up to 120 lb suitable for busy service or large gatherings
- Durable build with copper compressor and stainless steel exterior for commercial durability
- Adjustable ice thickness and LCD controls including 24-hour timer and self-cleaning
- Built-in water filter improves ice clarity and reduces impurities
- Requires water supply and gravity drain with daily draining recommended
- Needs regular cleaning and maintenance to keep performance and ice quality
Verdict: A robust undercounter ice maker that delivers commercial-level daily output and durable construction for busy bars, cafés, or large households.
Manitowoc UYF-0140A NEO
| Capacity | 90 pounds |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 115 volts |
| Refrigerant | R134a |
| Material Type | Stainless Steel |
The Manitowoc UYF-0140A NEO is a compact undercounter half-dice ice maker with a forward-sliding storage bin designed for small-volume commercial use or as a backup to larger machines. It produces high output at rated conditions, stores up to 90 pounds of ice, and uses electronic controls with full-bin and service indicators for straightforward operation. The sealed food zone with removable water trough and distribution parts simplifies cleaning, and adjustable legs help level the unit beneath counters. Practical benefits include reliable daily production for cafes, break rooms, or satellite foodservice stations and a production delay option to schedule ice runs during off-peak hours. Limitations are typical for undercounter machines: it requires adequate ventilation and ambient conditions to hit peak output and its stainless steel commercial form factor and 115V electrical needs mean installation and service are best handled by professionals rather than casual DIYers.
Best for: Buyers who need a reliable, compact undercounter ice maker for steady small-scale commercial use or as a backup to a larger system and prioritize consistent performance and easy service access.
Less Ideal for: Home users seeking a plug-and-play countertop ice maker or operations that need very large daily capacities without a dedicated commercial installation.
- High daily production suitable for small commercial settings and backup use
- Forward sliding storage bin and removable sealed food-zone components for easier cleaning and maintenance
- Electronic controls with full-bin and service indicators simplify operation
- Adjustable legs provide easy leveling under counters
- Requires proper ventilation and ambient conditions to reach rated output
- Commercial installation and servicing may be needed due to form factor and electrical requirements
Verdict: Choose the Manitowoc UYF-0140A NEO when you need dependable undercounter ice production and easy maintenance in a compact commercial package.
VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker
| Ice Production per Day | 100 pounds |
|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 30 lbs |
| Wattage | 290 watts |
| Voltage | 110 volts |
| Refrigerant | R290a |
The VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker is a compact undercounter-capable unit designed for steady, high-volume ice production in small commercial or busy home-bar settings. It makes up to 100 lb of ice per day, forming 36 cubes every 8–10 minutes, and stores roughly 30 lb in its insulated bin while an LED panel displays temperature and status. The controls let you adjust ice thickness and schedule production, and a one-touch self-clean cycle simplifies maintenance. R290a refrigerant and a stainless-steel exterior help with efficiency and corrosion resistance, while included inlet and drain hoses support automatic fill and drain installations. Expect noticeable noise and the need to keep the condenser clean for consistent performance, and the 290 watt power draw means it should be on a properly rated circuit. For undercounter installation allow clearance and follow the upright-before-start guideline to avoid startup issues.
Best for: Buyers who want a practical, high-throughput undercounter ice maker for busy home bars, small cafes, or restaurants and prioritize reliable daily output and simple controls.
Less Ideal for: Those needing a whisper-quiet countertop ice maker for occasional home use or buyers who require very large commercial capacity beyond ~100 lb/day.
- High daily production up to 100 lb suitable for small commercial or heavy home use
- Adjustable ice thickness and timer for tailoring cube size to drinks or food prep
- LED control panel with self-clean function and fault/ice-full alerts for easier operation
- Stainless-steel exterior and integrated insulation improve durability and ice retention
- Includes inlet and drain hoses plus a scoop and manual for straightforward setup
- Requires periodic condenser cleaning and proper ventilation to maintain performance
- Not silent—typical compressor noise can be noticeable in quiet environments
Verdict: A compact undercounter-capable machine that delivers dependable 100 lb/day ice production with adjustable thickness and easy self-cleaning for practical heavy-use settings.
Erivess HA407S-ES Ice Maker
| Ice Production per Day | 100 pounds |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 20 pounds |
| Wattage | 280 watts |
| Voltage | 110 volts |
| Refrigerant | R290a |
The Erivess HA407S-ES is an undercounter-style ice machine built for steady daily output in small commercial or heavy home use. It makes up to 100 lb of cube ice per 24 hours with a cycle that yields 36 cubes in about 11 minutes and stores roughly 20 lb in an insulated bin. The stainless steel cabinet and elevated feet give decent durability and easier cleaning for bar or kitchen environments, while the LCD controls let you adjust ice size and run automatic cleaning cycles for lower maintenance. The unit runs on 110 V and a 280 W compressor that Erivess rates as efficient and relatively quiet for its class, and it includes inlet/outlet hoses and an ice scoop for installation. Trade-offs are typical for a compact commercial machine: you need counter or cabinet space for undercounter fitment, it requires a water connection and occasional cleaning, and its 20 lb holding capacity means frequent use can deplete the bin faster than production in peak service. For buyers wanting reliable, budget-minded undercounter ice production, this is a practical pick with solid daily capacity.
Best for: Buyers prioritizing high, reliable undercounter ice output on a budget who need a durable, low-maintenance machine for home bars, small restaurants, or event use.
Less Ideal for: Customers who need large on-demand ice storage or a portable, plug-and-play countertop unit should consider alternatives better suited to occasional, low-volume use.
- High daily production up to 100 lb/24h suitable for busy home bars or small restaurants
- Stainless steel exterior offers durability and easy cleaning
- Insulated 20 lb storage bin extends ice retention between cycles
- LCD controls with adjustable ice size and automatic cleaning simplify operation
- Includes installation accessories such as inlet/outlet hoses and ice scoop
- 20 lb storage capacity is modest compared with its daily production so the bin can empty during peak use
- Requires a dedicated water connection and periodic maintenance to keep performance consistent
Verdict: If you want the most ice per dollar for an undercounter installation, this Erivess model delivers strong daily output in a durable stainless-steel package.
COTLIN Under Counter Ice Maker HXSeries
| Capacity | 22 pounds |
|---|---|
| Ice Production per Day | 42 pounds |
| Wattage | 600 watts |
| Voltage | 115 volts |
| Refrigerant | R600a |
The COTLIN HXSeries is a built-in-style, drainless ice maker intended for under-counter installation or freestanding use with a reversible door and adjustable feet for flexible placement. It produces crescent-shaped ice and is designed to keep cubes cold in the 26.6–32°F range while holding up to 22 pounds in the storage bin and making as much as 42 pounds of ice per day. The unit uses a straightforward one-touch control for simple operation and avoids a permanent drain by using a drainage-free design that only needs a water supply connection and power. Construction uses stainless steel and an R600a refrigerant, and the model is ETL approved. On the downside the machine is a dedicated undercounter footprint and requires measuring your cutout for a proper fit, and its 600-watt power draw and daily output are best matched to households or small commercial settings rather than very large-volume needs.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a reliable, easy-to-install undercounter ice source for home bars, small restaurants, or busy kitchens and who value simple controls and solid construction.
Less Ideal for: Large venues or operations that need industrial-scale ice production or users who cannot allocate a standard undercounter footprint should consider larger commercial machines.
- Drainless design eliminates the need for a floor drain or plumbing for simpler install
- High daily production up to 42 lb suitable for steady household or light commercial use
- 22 lb insulated storage bin holds a large amount of ice on hand
- Reversible door and adjustable feet allow flexible undercounter placement
- ETL approval and stainless steel exterior for durable, serviceable construction
- Requires accurate cutout/clearance for built-in installation and takes standard electrical supply
- Not intended for very high-volume commercial environments where larger production is needed
Verdict: Choose this COTLIN undercounter unit if you want a dependable, plumbing-free ice maker with solid daily output and a sizable onboard bin for home or light-commercial use.
EUHOMY Commercial Under-Counter Ice Maker IM-02
| Ice Production per Day | 100 pounds |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 33 pounds |
| Wattage | 198 watts |
| Voltage | 115 volts |
| Refrigerant | R290a |
The EUHOMY IM-02 is a compact under-counter commercial ice maker built for high-volume everyday use in small restaurants, bars, or busy home kitchens. It makes about 45 clear cube pieces per cycle and can produce up to 100 pounds of ice in 24 hours, depositing ice into a built-in 33 pound storage bin. The unit uses an intuitive LCD control panel to monitor ambient temperature, adjust ice thickness, and run an automatic self-clean cycle, which helps simplify maintenance. Its stainless steel cabinet and R290a refrigerant are typical of commercial-grade machines and the gravity drain design keeps installation straightforward if you have a floor drain. Expect relatively quiet compressor operation and energy-saving performance compared with older commercial units, though you must allow the machine to sit upright 24 hours before first use and run cleaning cycles before consuming ice. The lack of a built-in drain pump means placement must accommodate gravity drainage, which is the main installation constraint for many homes and mobile setups.
Best for: Buyers who want a compact under-counter machine that reliably delivers commercial-level ice output for small to medium service environments and who value easy controls and built-in storage.
Less Ideal for: People without access to a gravity drain or who need a fully portable unit with integrated pump should look for other models.
- High daily production rate up to 100 lbs per 24 hours suitable for continuous service
- Built-in 33 lb storage bin reduces trips to transfer ice during busy periods
- LCD control panel with adjustable ice thickness and one-touch self-clean simplifies operation
- Stainless steel construction for durability and professional appearance
- ETL certified for both commercial and home use
- Requires gravity drainage so a floor drain or lower outlet is necessary because no pump is included
- Initial setup requires waiting 24 hours upright and running multiple self-clean cycles before first use
Verdict: Choose this unit when you need a durable under-counter ice maker that delivers commercial 100 lb/day output with simple controls and a sizable built-in bin.
VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker SSX100
| Ice Production per Day | 130 pounds |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 130 pounds |
| Wattage | 258 watts |
| Voltage | 110 volts |
This VEVOR SSX100 is a high-capacity undercounter-capable ice maker aimed at small bars, busy home kitchens, and light commercial use. It cycles quickly, producing about 50 square ice cubes every 8–10 minutes and up to 130 pounds in 24 hours, and the LED panel lets you adjust freezing time to change cube thickness, run the one-touch self-clean, and monitor status lights for full ice, low water, or faults. The stainless steel body and integrated cyclopentane foam insulation help keep ice cold for several hours after power-off, and the unit ships with inlet and drain hoses plus a scoop for straightforward setup. Practical limits are that it is a fairly heavy, single-zone machine meant for steady production rather than ultra-quiet residential use, and it requires a proper water hookup and occasional cleaning to maintain output quality. For buyers who need reliable, adjustable ice production in an undercounter footprint, the SSX100 hits the core requirements without complicated controls.
Best for: Buyers who want a dependable undercounter-capable machine that consistently delivers large daily ice output for small commercial settings or busy home bars and who prefer simple, visible controls and a durable stainless-steel build.
Less Ideal for: Those seeking a lightweight, ultra-quiet household countertop ice maker or users who cannot provide a dedicated water inlet and drain connection should look elsewhere.
- Produces up to 130 lb of ice per day, suitable for high-demand periods
- Adjustable freeze time lets you change cube thickness for different uses
- LED control panel with one-touch self-clean and status alerts
- Stainless steel body and foam insulation retain ice for hours after power-off
- Heavy and substantial unit that needs a stable, level installation
- Requires a water hookup and periodic maintenance to sustain performance
Verdict: Choose the SSX100 when you need reliable, adjustable undercounter-capable ice production for a busy home bar or light commercial use.
Choosing the Right Undercounter Ice Maker: Key Factors to Consider
Daily Ice Production
How many pounds of ice the unit produces per 24 hours is the single most important spec. Choose a capacity that matches your typical peak demand, such as parties or heavy family use. A unit with insufficient output will run continuously and still fall short when you need ice.
Remember that published production rates are often measured under ideal conditions at higher water and ambient temperatures. For real-world performance, allow a safety margin so you do not run out during busy periods.
Bin Storage Capacity and Access
Storage capacity tells you how much ice is available between production cycles. Larger bins reduce the chance of running short but increase footprint. Consider whether you need a deep storage BIN or a shallow accessible drawer depending on how you scoop or dispense ice.
Also evaluate how the bin is accessed. A removable bin or a front-access drawer makes scooping and cleaning easier and speeds routine maintenance without removing the entire cabinet panel.
Installation and Cabinet Fitment
Undercounter units must fit existing cabinet openings and work with your kitchen plumbing. Check cutout dimensions, required clearances for airflow, and whether the unit needs a specific countertop depth. Drain location and slope matter, as some units require a pumped or gravity drain.
Water supply type is another consideration. Units that accept a simple cold-water line and standard fittings are easier to install. If your undercounter space lacks a nearby drain or water hookup, factor in the cost and complexity of adding them.
Water and Energy Efficiency
Ice makers vary in how much water and electricity they use per pound of ice. More efficient machines lower operating costs and reduce water waste over time, which matters if you use the unit heavily. Look for efficiency figures or testing data when available.
Efficiency also ties to environmental considerations. If you are conscious of water use or live in an area with high utility costs, a model with better water-to-ice ratios and lower power draw will be preferable.
Build Quality and Reliability
Materials and component quality affect long-term performance. Corrosion-resistant interior linings, stainless fasteners, and durable evaporator surfaces extend service life. Also consider warranty terms and ease of sourcing service parts if something fails.
Units designed for undercounter use should have adequate ventilation paths and robust condensers. Poorly ventilated installations shorten compressor life and reduce production consistency.
Maintenance and Sanitation
Regular descaling and sanitation keep ice flavor neutral and machines operating at rated capacity. Check how easy it is to access water filters, perform a cleaning cycle, and replace wear items. Models that simplify these tasks reduce the time and cost of ownership.
Consider whether the unit has built-in cleaning cycles or easy-to-remove panels for descaling. If you expect heavy use, choose a unit with straightforward sanitation procedures to keep ice quality high.
Sizing Your Ice Needs
Estimate your daily ice requirement based on typical use patterns. For casual household use, a smaller undercounter ice maker with moderate production may suffice. For frequent entertaining or a home bar, prioritize higher daily output and larger storage.
Factor in peak loads and stacking of activities. If you host events where multiple beverages are chilled simultaneously, build in extra capacity so the machine does not run nonstop during the event.
- Calculate by number of guests and average drinks per person
- Account for ice used for chilling bottles versus serving in glasses
- Add a margin for refill lag during high-demand periods
Plumbing and Drain Options
Undercounter ice makers need a reliable cold water feed and a method to remove melt and condensate. Some models rely on gravity drains that need an appropriate slope, while others include a condensate pump. Determine which fits your cabinet layout.
If your installation location lacks an easily routed drain, plan for either a pump or rerouting of plumbing. Also consider water filtration to improve ice taste and reduce scale buildup.
- Verify drain location relative to unit outlet
- Decide between gravity drain and pumped drain based on cabinet geometry
- Consider installing a dedicated water shutoff valve for service access
Ventilation and Clearance Requirements
Proper airflow keeps the compressor and condenser cool, which maintains production and extends component life. Pay close attention to the required clearances listed in installation specs, and avoid sealing the unit into a tight cabinet without ventilation.
Some undercounter ice makers are front-venting, allowing installation in enclosed spaces. If the model is top- or rear-venting, ensure there is a path for intake and exhaust air to prevent overheating.
- Measure cabinet openings and compare to suggested cutout dimensions
- Allow recommended airflow space around the condenser
- Choose front-venting units for fully enclosed cabinet installs
Ice Type and Use Cases
Different machines produce different ice types such as cubes, nugget, or flake. Consider what you will use the ice for. Hard-shelled cubes are ideal for cocktails and long-lasting cooling, while nugget or chewable ice is preferred for soft drinks and blended beverages.
Think about storage habits. Some ice types pack more densely and take less bin space, which can affect your usable storage capacity and how often you need to top up production.
- Choose cube-style for drinks that need slow melt
- Choose nugget-style for chewability and crushed-ice cocktails
- Match ice type to typical beverage and serving preferences
Noise Considerations
Compressors and fans generate noise during production cycles. Noise becomes important if the unit sits near living areas or open-plan kitchens. Look for units with quieter rated operation or features that reduce fan speed during low-load periods.
Installation also affects perceived noise. Solid cabinetry can amplify sound, so consider sound-damping measures or placing units where occasional compressor cycles will be less intrusive.
- Check decibel ratings when available
- Avoid installing under frequently used seating areas if noise is a concern
- Consider vibration-isolating mounts for quieter operation
How We Chose the Best Undercounter Ice Maker
We focused on the factors that matter most when choosing an undercounter ice maker for a residential or light commercial kitchen. Key evaluation dimensions included daily ice production capacity to ensure a unit can keep up with typical entertaining and household needs; bin storage and dispenser design to determine practical usable ice on hand; installation flexibility, covering drain and water-supply connections plus cabinet cutout and clearance; energy and water efficiency to estimate operating cost and environmental impact; reliability and build quality, including corrosion-resistant materials and serviceability; and maintenance and cleaning ease, such as filter access and scale management. Units were excluded if they lacked clear specification for daily output, required specialized installation beyond typical kitchen plumbing, or used materials prone to rapid corrosion in a kitchen environment. Our process prioritized spec-based selection from models intended for undercounter installation and that provide manufacturer-rated performance figures. The shortlist favors balance across capacity, footprint, and user serviceability rather than extreme one-off features.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How much ice will I actually get compared to the rated daily production?
Real-world output often falls below published ratings because those figures are measured under ideal lab conditions. Ambient temperature, water temperature, and ventilation all affect production. Expect somewhat lower day-to-day yields and plan for a margin above your estimated needs.
Can I install an undercounter ice maker in any cabinet?
Most undercounter models require specific cutout dimensions and ventilation clearances. Front-venting models work better in enclosed cabinets, while top- or rear-venting units need open space for airflow. Also confirm drain and water access before committing to a location.
Do undercounter ice makers need a water filter?
A water filter is not strictly required but strongly recommended to improve ice taste and reduce scale buildup. Filters extend the time between descaling cycles and help maintain consistent ice quality.
How often should I clean or descale the machine?
Frequency depends on water hardness and usage. Typically, descaling and sanitizing every few months is sufficient for residential use. If you have hard water or heavy daily use, increase the cleaning frequency to prevent scale and bacterial buildup.
Will the ice melt quickly in the storage bin?
Storage bins are insulated but not refrigerated, so ice will gradually melt between production cycles. Larger production capacity or quicker recovery time reduces reliance on stored ice. Regularly emptying and cycling the bin can help maintain fresh ice.
Final Verdict
Prioritize daily production and installation fit when choosing an undercounter ice maker. Match output to your entertaining and household habits, verify cutout and ventilation requirements, and plan plumbing for water and drain connections. Balance efficiency, maintenance needs, and ice type to suit your typical beverage service. Selecting the right combination of capacity, serviceability, and installation compatibility will ensure consistent, high-quality ice with minimal surprises. Focus on the factors outlined above to make a confident choice for your undercounter ice maker.