Are Countertop Ice Makers Worth It? We Tested 4 Models
Nugget ice at home sounds like a dream. But is it worth the counter space, noise, and electricity? We tested 4 models to find out.
We Bought 4 Countertop Ice Makers So You Don't Have To
We tested four popular models over three weeks. Here's exactly what happened.
The Contenders
- GE Profile Opal 2.0 — Premium nugget ice (~$500)
- Govee Smart Ice Maker — App-connected newcomer (~$300)
- Frigidaire EFIC189 — Budget-friendly (~$130)
- Silonn Countertop — Amazon bestseller (~$100)
The Results
GE Profile Opal 2.0 — The Clear Winner
The GE Profile Opal makes the best nugget ice I've had outside a commercial machine. Soft, chewable, perfect for iced coffee.
- Pros: Incredible ice, side tank, Bluetooth, quiet
- Cons: Expensive, large footprint
- Power: ~$4-6/month
Govee Smart Ice Maker — The Tech-Forward Pick
Great app integration. Bullet-style ice, not nugget. Fast production.
- Pros: Great app, 6 minutes per batch, affordable
- Cons: Bullet ice only, small reservoir
Frigidaire EFIC189 — Solid Budget Choice
Two sizes of bullet ice, reliably and quickly. No frills.
- Pros: Reliable, affordable, two ice sizes
- Cons: Loud compressor, no insulation
Silonn Countertop — The Amazon Darling
The Silonn works, but ice is hollow and melts fast. You'll probably upgrade within a year.
Nugget Ice vs. Bullet Ice
Nugget ice is soft, chewable, absorbs flavor. Only the Opal makes it. Bullet ice is hollow and melts fast. The other three all make this.
The Honest Verdict
Worth it if you drink iced beverages daily. If you go through a bag of ice a week, one pays for itself in 3-6 months. Otherwise? Just buy a bag from the store.
Our Recommendations
- Best overall: GE Profile Opal 2.0
- Best value: Govee Smart Ice Maker
- Best budget: Frigidaire EFIC189
- Skip: Silonn