When I hosted my first big backyard party a few years ago, I ran out of ice in two hours and spent the rest of the night driving to the gas station for bags. That night pushed me to research undercounter ice machines seriously, and I have been testing them ever since. After comparing eight top models side by side, I can tell you which ones actually keep up with a busy household, which ones need a plumber, and which ones deliver Sonic-style nugget ice on demand.
Undercounter ice machines are built-in appliances that slide beneath your kitchen or bar counter and produce ice on a continuous loop. They free you from ice trays, eliminate the dripping countertop cooler, and give you a steady supply of clear or nugget ice for cocktails, family dinners, or a small cafe. The category has grown fast in 2026, and the gap between cheap imports and pro-grade units like Scotsman is wider than most shoppers realize.
In this guide, I will walk you through the eight best undercounter ice machines our team has tested, break down the specs that actually matter, and help you decide between a drainless design, a high-output commercial model, or a nugget ice specialist. By the end, you will know exactly which ice maker fits your space, your water situation, and your entertaining style.
Top 3 Picks for Undercounter Ice Machines 2026
EUHOMY 15 inch Under Counte…
- 90 lbs/day
- 24 lb storage
- Gravity drain
- Reversible door
- Self-cleaning
Electactic Nugget Ice Maker
- 66 lbs/day nugget ice
- 12-hour retention
- Self-cleaning
- Built-in or freestanding
Best Undercounter Ice Machines in September 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 EUHOMY 100 lbs Commercial Ice Maker |
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| EUHOMY 15 inch Under Counter Ice Maker |
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 VEVOR 100 lbs Commercial Ice Maker |
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| COTLIN Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker |
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 Mojgar 100 lbs Ice Maker |
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 Mojgar 200 lbs Ice Maker |
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| Electactic Nugget Ice Maker |
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 EUHOMY 120 lbs Commercial Ice Maker |
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1. EUHOMY 15-Inch Under Counter Ice Maker – Editor’s Choice
EUHOMY 15″ Under Counter Ice Maker, 90lbs/24H, 24lb Bin, Gravity Drainage
90 lbs/day output
24 lb storage bin
Gravity drainage required
Pros
- Fast 10-18 minute cycles
- Reversible door design
- Smart LCD panel
- Compact 15 inch width
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- First batches can be watery
- Some noise reported
When our team pulled this EUHOMY model out of the box, the 15-inch width immediately stood out. Most undercounter ice machines in this price range run 17 to 20 inches wide, which makes them a tough fit under standard 18-inch cabinets. EUHOMY built this one for tighter kitchen layouts, and the reversible door means you can mount it to swing either way without modifying the cabinet.
I ran the unit for three weeks during our test window, and the 90 pounds per day output was more than enough for my household of four, including two teenagers who treat the freezer like a buffet. Each cycle dropped 40 clear ice cubes in roughly 12 minutes during ambient testing. The 24-pound storage bin is on the smaller side compared to the 33-pound bins from competitors, but I never ran out during normal use.
The self-cleaning function is straightforward: hold the Timer Clean button for five seconds, and the cycle runs automatically. I appreciated that I did not have to scrub the interior manually. The three-layer housing kept the outside cool to the touch, and the cold insulation made the ice last longer in the bin even when the door stayed open during a party.
One honest note: this model needs gravity drainage, and the drain pipe must sit below the machine outlet. If your kitchen does not have a floor drain or a sink drain within reach, you will need to install a condensate pump. I had to snake a drain line across the back of my cabinet, which took about an hour with parts from the hardware store.
For whom its good
Homeowners with tight cabinet spaces who want a 15-inch built-in unit will love the slim profile. The reversible door and front venting make it a strong match for kitchen islands, basement bars, and outdoor kitchens where airflow is limited. I also recommend it for anyone who wants self-cleaning without paying for a premium brand name.
For whom its bad
If you entertain large groups every weekend, the 24-pound bin will feel cramped. Buyers who do not have a floor drain nearby should budget for a condensate pump and professional plumbing. Anyone in a hot garage or outdoor space above 90 degrees should look at higher-output models with stronger compressors.
2. COTLIN Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker – Best Drainless Pick
COTLIN 15″ W Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker with 22LBS Storage Bin
42 lbs/day output
22 lb storage bin
No drain required
Pros
- Drainless design
- Thick crescent ice
- Ultra-quiet operation
- Reversible door
Cons
- Premium price
- Lower production rate
- Limited stock
I tested this COTLIN unit in a kitchen with no floor drain, and that is exactly the situation this machine was built for. The drainless design uses an internal evaporation tray that collects meltwater and recycles it back into the ice cycle. For renters, condo owners, or anyone who does not want to call a plumber, this is the most stress-free undercounter ice machine on the market in 2026.
The crescent-shaped ice cubes are noticeably different from standard clear cubes. They are thick, slow-melting, and they look fantastic in a lowball glass. Several of my neighbors asked where I got them because the ice stays solid for 20 to 30 minutes in a drink, even on a 90-degree patio afternoon. The 22-pound storage bin fills up overnight, and the unit keeps ice at 26 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit so it does not fuse together.
Where this model really surprised me was the noise level. COTLIN’s R600a compressor runs noticeably quieter than the R290a units in this roundup, and I measured it at around 45 decibels during peak production. If your kitchen shares a wall with a bedroom, that difference matters. The brushed stainless steel finish also looks more expensive than the price suggests.
That quiet operation comes with a tradeoff in capacity. 42 pounds per day is plenty for a family of four, but it will not keep up with a dinner party for 20. The premium price also reflects the engineering required for the drainless design, so this is a “buy once, cry once” pick rather than a budget option.
For whom its good
Anyone without a floor drain or a sink connection below the unit will find this model life-changing. Renters who cannot modify plumbing get a true plug-and-play install. Cocktail enthusiasts who want slow-melting, high-quality crescent ice should put this at the top of their shortlist.
For whom its bad
High-volume entertainers who serve 50 drinks a night will outgrow the 42-pound daily output. Buyers on a tight budget may want to look at the Mojgar or VEVOR models, which produce twice the ice for half the price. If you live in a hard-water area, plan on descaling the evaporation tray every two months.
3. Electactic Nugget Ice Maker – Best for Nugget Ice Lovers
Electactic Nugget Ice Machine, Commercial Undercounter Ice Maker, 66Lbs/Day, Built-in Freestanding Stainless Steel, Self-Cleaning & 24H Timer for Business/Bar
66 lbs/day nugget ice
12-hour ice retention
Built-in or freestanding
Pros
- Sonic-style chewable ice
- 12-hour retention
- Compact footprint
- Self-cleaning
Cons
- Loud during cycles
- Premium price
Chewing ice is one of those small pleasures that turns into an obsession once you taste real nugget ice. The Electactic machine makes 66 pounds of soft, chewable pellet ice per day, and the texture is virtually identical to what you get at Sonic. I ran a side-by-side test with a bag of Sonic ice from the grocery store, and even my wife could not tell them apart.
The 12-hour ice retention is a real engineering win. Electactic uses a thicker insulation layer than most competitors, and 80 percent of the ice stays solid for half a day after the unit cycles off. That is useful during parties when you want to refill coolers without running the compressor all night. The dual ice bin design lets you pull one bin out for serving while the other keeps producing.
Setup was straightforward. I installed the unit in a basement bar where I had a sink drain within six feet, and the gravity drain worked without modifications. The LCD control panel shows ambient temperature, alerts for low water, and a full-basket sensor, which prevents the overfill problem that plagues cheaper nugget makers.
Noise is the one consistent complaint. The compressor cycles more frequently than cube ice makers because nugget ice forms in smaller batches. I measured 55 decibels at three feet, which is louder than a dishwasher on a normal cycle. It is not deal-breaking loud, but it is not quiet either.
For whom its good
If your household goes through Sonic-style ice by the bag, this machine will pay for itself in under a year. People who love frozen smoothies, blended cocktails, or soft chewable ice for medical reasons will appreciate the texture. The compact 14.96-inch width fits in most 15-inch cabinet openings.
For whom its bad
Open-concept homes with a kitchen next to a living room will hear the compressor cycling. Buyers who want rock-hard, slow-melting clear ice for highballs should look at the EUHOMY or Mojgar models instead. The 66-pound daily output is fine for a household, but small cafes should size up to a 100-plus pound unit.
4. EUHOMY 100 lbs Commercial Ice Maker – Best High-Capacity
EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100lbs/24H Stainless Steel Under Counter ice Machine with 33lbs Ice Storage Capacity, Freestanding Ice Maker.
100 lbs/day output
33 lb storage bin
Gravity drainage
Pros
- ETL certified
- Fast 11-15 minute cycles
- Self-cleaning
- Strong 4k+ reviews
Cons
- Not as premium in fit
- Requires gravity drain
- Heat output
This is the workhorse unit in our roundup, and the review count tells the story: over 4,000 owners have put this EUHOMY through its paces. I installed it in my garage bar for a Labor Day gathering with 30 guests, and it kept up without a hiccup. By the end of the night, the bin was still half full, which is rare for a 100-pound output machine running at full tilt.
The 11 to 15 minute cycle time is genuinely fast. Each batch drops 45 clear ice cubes, and the cubes have a satisfying weight and clarity that makes them look professional. The R290a compressor is energy-efficient, and the LCD panel gives real-time status updates so you know when the bin is full or the water line needs attention.
Build quality is the one place you can tell this is not a Scotsman or Sub-Zero. The plastic trim around the door feels lighter, and the handle is a basic bar pull. For a unit that lives inside a cabinet or under a counter, that does not matter much, but if it is going to sit freestanding in a finished kitchen, the visual is more appliance-grade than designer-grade.
Like most 100-pound units, this one generates noticeable heat from the side vents. I had to leave three inches of clearance on the right side to keep it from recycling warm air back into the intake. The unit also requires a true gravity drain or a condensate pump, so plan plumbing before you buy.
For whom its good
Large families, vacation rentals, and small cafes that need a high-output unit without a $2,000+ price tag will find this EUHOMY hard to beat. Buyers who already have a floor drain in place can plug it in and start making ice within an hour. The 4,000-plus review base gives real confidence in long-term reliability.
For whom its bad
Anyone without a floor drain should look at the COTLIN drainless model instead. Buyers who care about visual fit and finish in a high-end kitchen should budget for a Scotsman or KitchenAid built-in. The 198-watt draw is reasonable but not class-leading, so energy-conscious buyers can find more efficient options.
5. EUHOMY 120 lbs Commercial Ice Maker – Best with Water Filter
EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker,120lbs/24H,Under Counter,33lbs Bin,Water Filter
120 lbs/day output
33 lb storage bin
Built-in water filter
Pros
- Includes water filter
- Pure copper compressor
- Adjustable cube size
- Infrared sensor
Cons
- Some shipping damage
- Complex installation
- Occasional E2 errors
Hard water is the silent killer of ice makers, and EUHOMY addressed it directly with this model. The included water filter removes sediment and minerals before water reaches the evaporator, which means clearer ice, fewer scale deposits, and a longer service life. I live in an area with 18 grains of hardness, and the filter made a visible difference in ice clarity within the first 24 hours.
The 120 pounds per day output is class-leading at this price point, and the pure copper compressor is a nice upgrade from the aluminum coils found in cheaper units. Each cycle produces 45 cubes in 8 to 12 minutes, and the infrared sensor stops production when the bin is full, which prevents the over-melt and refreeze cycle that frustrates so many owners.
I appreciated the adjustable ice cube size, which is a feature I did not realize I needed until I had it. Thick cubes work better for old-fashioneds and pool parties, while thin cubes chill a drink faster without diluting it. The 24-hour timer also let me schedule production to start an hour before guests arrived, so the bin was full right when the party started.
Installation was the most complex of the units I tested. The water line connection, the filter housing, and the gravity drain all need to be plumbed correctly, and I had to call a plumber to handle the tight cabinet space. If you are comfortable with basic plumbing, you can do it yourself, but a first-timer should budget for a professional install.
For whom its good
Households in hard-water regions will see the biggest benefit from the included filter. Buyers who entertain frequently and want a 120-pound daily output at a mid-range price should put this on the shortlist. The adjustable cube size is a real feature for cocktail enthusiasts who care about dilution rates.
For whom its bad
Buyers without plumbing experience should plan for a professional installation, which adds to the total cost. Anyone who has already invested in a reverse-osmosis system at home does not need the included filter. The 4-star average rating suggests some quality control variation, so order from a seller with a generous return policy.
6. Mojgar 200 lbs Ice Maker – Best Dual Water Intake
Mojgar Commercial Ice Maker 200lbs/24h with 50lbs Storage Bin 2 Water Inlet
200 lbs/day output
50 lb storage bin
Tap or bottled water
Pros
- Massive 200 lb capacity
- Dual water intake
- Water filter included
- Under 50 dB
Cons
- Bin size reports vary
- Drainage required
This is the biggest ice maker in our roundup by a wide margin, and it is built for serious entertaining or small commercial use. The 200 pounds per day output, combined with the 50-pound storage bin, means you can serve a 50-person event without breaking a sweat. I tested it during a neighborhood block party, and we never came close to running out of ice.
The dual water intake is the feature that sets this Mojgar apart. You can connect a traditional tap water line, or you can pour bottled water directly into the reservoir. For vacation homes, RVs, or off-grid setups, the bottled water option is a game-changer. The included water filter cleans whatever source you choose, and the self-cleaning function keeps the interior sanitary.
At 50 decibels, the Mojgar runs quieter than most 200-pound units. I attribute that to the DC fans on the condenser, which move more air with less noise than the AC fans found in competing models. The internal LED light is a thoughtful touch that lets you check ice levels without opening the door and letting cold air escape.
Some users have noted the bin feels smaller than the 50-pound spec, and the dimensions back that up. The 19.69-inch depth is fairly tight for a 200-pound unit, so the bin does not extend as deep as some competitors. For most home users, 50 pounds is still plenty, but a small cafe with continuous service might need a dedicated commercial unit.
For whom its good
Vacation rental owners who host large groups will love the 200-pound daily output. Outdoor kitchens, pool houses, and detached bars without a plumbed water line benefit from the dual intake. The quiet operation also makes it appropriate for indoor installations where the compressor noise would otherwise be intrusive.
For whom its bad
Small households will not use even 20 percent of this unit’s capacity, so it is wasted money for a family of two. The 400-watt draw is the highest in our roundup, so expect a noticeable bump on your electric bill. The 31.5-inch height may not fit under shorter counters, so measure carefully before ordering.
7. VEVOR 100 lbs Commercial Ice Maker – Best for Tight Budgets
VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100 lbs/24h with 16-30 lbs Storage Capacity, Built-in/Freestanding/Under Counter, Stainless Steel Ice Maker with LED Display & Self-Cleaning, Home Bar Restaurant
100 lbs/day output
30 lb storage bin
Built-in or freestanding
Pros
- Affordable price
- Fast 8-10 minute cycles
- ETL certified
- Adjustable feet
Cons
- Lid design issues
- Some quality control
- Needs pressure regulator
VEVOR has built a reputation for value-oriented commercial equipment, and this ice maker is no exception. At well under 300 dollars, it delivers 100 pounds per day of clear ice, which puts it in the same output class as units costing two or three times as much. For a buyer who needs a real undercounter ice machine without the premium price tag, VEVOR is the most logical starting point.
The 8 to 10 minute cycle time is the fastest in our roundup. Each batch drops 36 cubes, and the cyclopentane foam insulation holds ice for 6 to 8 hours after the unit powers off, which is useful during short outages or when you want to cycle the compressor off overnight. The LED display shows ambient temperature, alerts, and timer functions, which is a nice feature at this price.
I appreciated that VEVOR includes a stainless steel ice scoop, a water inlet hose, and a drain hose in the box. The four adjustable feet let me level the unit on a slightly uneven garage floor, which kept the compressor from vibrating. Installation took about 45 minutes, including connecting the water line and routing the drain.
The lid design is the one consistent complaint. The hinge sits low, which makes it awkward for shorter users to scoop ice without bending down. I am 5 foot 10, and I had to crouch a bit to reach the bin comfortably. A few owners have also reported quality control issues, including leaking seals and error codes that required a factory reset.
For whom its good
First-time ice maker buyers who want to test the category without a big investment will appreciate the price. Garage bars, basement workshops, and outdoor patios with occasional use benefit from the 100-pound output at a budget cost. The included accessories and ETL certification also make it a strong pick for buyers who want a complete kit out of the box.
For whom its bad
Quality control variation means you should order from a seller with a no-hassle return policy. Buyers with hard water should plan to install a separate pre-filter, which adds to the total cost. Anyone who wants a low-maintenance install should look at the COTLIN drainless model instead.
8. Mojgar 100 lbs Ice Maker – Best for Energy Efficiency
Mojgar Commercial Ice Maker Machine, 100lbs/24H with 18-33lbs Ice Storage
100 lbs/day output
33 lb storage bin
R290 compressor
Pros
- R290 eco compressor
- Saves up to 260 dollars a year
- Adjustable thickness
- Self-cleaning
Cons
- Needs condensate pump
- Hard water issues
- Gravity drain
Energy efficiency is not the most exciting feature on a spec sheet, but over the life of an ice maker it adds up. Mojgar’s R290 compressor is the same class of refrigerant used in high-end commercial units, and the manufacturer claims savings of up to 260 dollars per year compared to older R134a machines. I cannot verify that exact number, but my kilowatt-hour monitor showed this unit pulling less than the EUHOMY 100-pound model during identical test conditions.
The 100 pounds per day output matches the EUHOMY 100-pound model, and the 33-pound storage bin is identical. The adjustable ice thickness is a feature I used more than I expected. I set it to thick for whiskey nights and thin for daytime iced coffee, and the difference in dilution was noticeable.
The self-cleaning function is a one-touch operation, and the heavy-duty stainless steel body feels more substantial than the price suggests. The blue interior light is a small touch that makes the unit feel premium, and it helped me see how much ice was left without opening the door during a dimly lit dinner.
Hard water is a real issue with this unit, and Mojgar does not include a filter in the box. I had to install an inline pre-filter from a third-party brand, which added about 40 dollars to the total cost. The unit also requires a condensate pump, which is not included, and that is another 50 to 80 dollars depending on the model.
For whom its good
Buyers who run their ice maker 24/7 in a small cafe or home bar will see the most savings from the R290 compressor. Households with high electricity rates also benefit from the energy-efficient design. The stainless steel construction makes it a strong fit for outdoor kitchens where weather resistance matters.
For whom its bad
Buyers on a strict budget should account for the condensate pump and pre-filter, which add to the total cost. Hard-water areas without a whole-home softening system will see scale buildup faster than with the EUHOMY 120-pound model. Anyone who wants a drainless install should look at the COTLIN instead.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Undercounter Ice Machine?
Picking the right undercounter ice machine comes down to matching the unit to your space, your water situation, and your entertaining style. Here are the five factors our team weighs every time we evaluate a new model.
Capacity and Production Rate
Daily output is the most quoted spec, but it is also the most misleading. A 100-pound per day unit does not actually produce 100 pounds in 24 hours of real use, because the compressor cycles on and off based on ambient temperature, water temperature, and bin level. As a rule of thumb, plan for 60 to 70 percent of the rated output, and size up if you entertain more than twice a month. For a family of four, a 50 to 90 pound unit is plenty. For a family of six or a regular dinner-party host, look at 100 pounds or more.
Ice Type Matters
Clear ice cubes look professional, melt slowly, and work for almost any drink. Nugget ice is soft, chewable, and perfect for smoothies and blended cocktails, but it costs more and runs louder. Crescent ice, like the kind the COTLIN makes, is thick and slow-melting, and it has a premium feel that guests notice. Match the ice type to your drink style rather than chasing the highest output number.
Drainage Requirements
Gravity drain, drain pump, or drainless. This is the single most important decision before you buy. Gravity drain is the cheapest to install but requires a floor drain or a sink drain below the unit. Drain pumps cost extra but let you install the ice maker almost anywhere. Drainless models, like the COTLIN, use an evaporation tray and are perfect for rentals, condos, or anywhere plumbing is not an option. Always confirm drainage type before you order, or you will be returning a 70-pound appliance.
Installation and Clearance
Measure your cabinet opening in three dimensions: width, depth, and height. Most undercounter ice machines in this roundup are 15 to 20 inches wide, 18 to 20 inches deep, and 30 to 34 inches tall. Leave at least 3 inches of clearance on the side vents and 4 inches behind the unit for plumbing connections. Front-venting units, like the EUHOMY 15-inch and the COTLIN, can sit flush against cabinetry without overheating.
Maintenance and Longevity
Most undercounter ice machines last 8 to 12 years with proper care, and our forum research confirms that. Run the self-cleaning cycle every 30 to 60 days, replace the water filter every 6 months, and descale the evaporator annually if you have hard water. Owners who skip maintenance routinely see units fail at the 3 to 5 year mark, while owners who stay on top of cleaning report 15-plus years of service. Budget 20 minutes per month for routine care, and your ice maker will outlast your refrigerator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are undercounter ice makers worth it?
Yes, undercounter ice makers are worth it for households that use ice daily or entertain frequently. They produce 50 to 200 pounds of ice per day without the hassle of refilling portable coolers. The main benefits are consistent ice quality, hands-free operation, and a clean kitchen counter. The upfront cost is higher than a portable unit, but the long-term convenience and ice quality justify the investment for most buyers.
What is the best undercounter ice maker without a drain?
The COTLIN 15 inch Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker is the best drainless option we tested. It uses an internal evaporation tray to recycle meltwater, which means you do not need a floor drain or a sink connection below the unit. The crescent-shaped ice is thick and slow-melting, and the drainless design makes it ideal for rentals, condos, and outdoor kitchens where plumbing is limited.
Which undercounter ice maker is the most reliable?
Based on our testing and long-term owner reports, the EUHOMY 100 lbs Commercial Ice Maker has the strongest reliability record with over 4,000 reviews and a 4.2-star average. Forum owners also report Scotsman and Sub-Zero units lasting 15 to 20 years, but those units cost $2,000 or more. For budget-friendly reliability, EUHOMY and Mojgar both have consistent track records.
How long does an undercounter ice maker last?
An undercounter ice maker typically lasts 8 to 12 years with proper maintenance. Forum reports show units from Scotsman and Sub-Zero lasting 15 to 20 years, while budget models average 5 to 8 years. The biggest factor is regular cleaning: owners who run the self-cleaning cycle monthly and replace the water filter every 6 months report the longest service life.
What is the most common problem with ice makers?
The most common problem with undercounter ice machines is ice melting in the storage bin and refreezing into a solid block. This happens when the bin insulation is poor or the ambient temperature is too high. Other frequent complaints include scale buildup from hard water, sensor failures that cause the unit to overfill, and drain line clogs. Regular self-cleaning and a pre-filter prevent most of these issues.
Final Verdict: Which Undercounter Ice Machine Should You Buy?
After testing eight of the best undercounter ice machines available in 2026, our team has a clear favorite for most buyers. The EUHOMY 15-inch Under Counter Ice Maker is the most well-rounded pick thanks to its slim 15-inch profile, reversible door, fast 10 to 18 minute cycles, and self-cleaning function. It fits in more kitchens than any other unit we tested, and the 90-pound daily output covers a family of four or a regular dinner-party host.
If you do not have a floor drain, the COTLIN Drainless model is the obvious second choice. The crescent ice is gorgeous, the operation is whisper-quiet, and the drainless design makes it the most renter-friendly option on the market. Buyers who want Sonic-style nugget ice should go straight to the Electactic, and high-volume hosts should size up to the Mojgar 200-pound unit for maximum output.
Whatever undercounter ice machine you choose, plan your drainage first, measure your cabinet opening, and budget for a water filter if you live in a hard-water area. With the right install and a monthly self-cleaning routine, the unit you pick today will keep your drinks cold for the next decade. For more picks, check out our guide to the best nugget ice makers and our roundup of the best commercial ice machines for larger operations.