The brushed stainless steel housing is resistant to rust and corrosion and not as susceptible to scratches as ice makers made from ABS plastic. The automatic sensors notify you when the bucket's full and when the tank starts running low.
Some users might find it a bit noisy.
The NETTA Ice Maker Machine produces very little noise when preparing ice cubes. Besides the model's low-noise operation, there's also the compact, unobtrusive design, the 0.8-kilogramme ice storage capacity, and a removable ice basket making the machine handy in any setting.
Bullet-round ice
Not adjustable
Up to 12 kg
0.8 kg
10 - 12 minutes
1.8-litre water reservoir
Control panel with LED indicators, Water refill alarm, Translucent window, Ice scoop included
23.2 x 31 x 31.6 cm
7.5 kg
1 year
The quality DC fan provides better heat dissipation and low noise operation. The device emits less than the 35 dB of noise, which will allow you to focus on your routine.
The fingerprints will be visible on the glossy LED panel.
This ice maker by NORTHCLAN will be useful for all fans of cold drinks. The device produces 9 perfectly even ice cubes in just 6 minutes, which will be enough for 3 cocktails. The ultra-precise IR sensors will alert you when it's time to add water or when the ice container is full.
Bullet-round ice
Not adjustable
Up to 14 kg
~ 0.7 kg
5 to 8 minutes
2-litre water reservoir
Control panel with LED indicators, Add water/Ice full alarm, Translucent window, Ice scoop included
33 x 24 x 30 cm
8.44 kg
Amazon's 30-day return policy
The ice-making capacity of 15 kg will meet the needs of the most demanding users, and the reasonable price to quality ratio will leave you pleasantly surprised.
Sometimes ice cubes miss the basket.
A stylish design coupled with functionality is what makes the Andrew James ice maker machine an ideal option for every household. Its relatively light weight allows you to take it along with you on trips.
Thimble-shaped cloudy ice cubes
2 ice cube sizes (small, large)
Up to 15 kg
0.7 kg
5 - 13 minutes
2.2-litre water reservoir
Removable ice basket, Ice scoop, See-through window, Front drain, LED control panel with buttons and indicators (Water level indicator, Full basket indicator), Auto shut-off
35 x 24 x 33 cm
2.2 kg
2 years
The machine is CE certified, which means it complies with all the EU requirements. And for effective freezing, the ice maker uses R135a refrigerant that is completely safe both for humans and for the environment.
The drain plug is a bit fiddly.
This compact ice maker from COSTWAY is a functional appliance that generates ice cubes in a choice of two sizes. It's equipped with a convenient control panel with informative indicators. Available in white, black, silver, and red colour options to suit any kitchen.
Bullet-round ice
2 ice cube sizes (small, large)
Up to 12 kg
0.7 kg
6 - 13 minutes
2.2-litre water reservoir
Control panel with LED indicators, Add water, Ice full alarm, Translucent window, Ice scoop included
33 x 24 x 36 cm
8 kg
1 year
You'll be able to make ice cubes of 3 different sizes. A strategically placed translucent viewing window will let you peep inside and check on the progress. The matte black finish is fingerprint- and smudge-proof, so it will always look presentable. The inside of the model is made of quality BPA-free ABS plastic.
Not much of a difference between small and medium sizes.
If you run the type of establishment that serves a variety of different refreshing beverages, you cannot go wrong with the Polar T135 portable ice maker. It is as reliable of an appliance as they come. Furthermore, it comes with an ice scoop, so you won't have to waste your time trying to fish out the ice cubes.
Bullet-round ice
Adjustable (3 sizes)
Up to 11 kg
1 kg
10 - 15 minutes
2-litre water reservoir
Control panel with LED indicators, Water refill alarm, Translucent window, Ice scoop included
30.5 x 38 x 38 cm
12.8 kg
1 year
Brushed Stainless Steel for the Win
The NETTA Ice Maker Machine is sleek, with its stainless steel housing making the appliance look more expensive than it actually is. The brushed steel construction not only protects the appliance against rust and corrosion but also makes sure that the finish is not easily scratched. The machine is pretty compact too, measuring modest 23.2 x 31 x 31.6 centimetres and not going above 7.5 kilogrammes from the weight perspective, putting the "portable" in the "portable ice maker".
Despite its unobtrusive design, the machine's maximum daily ice production reaches 12 kilogrammes, enabling office use too. More often than not, ice cubes do not take more than 10 minutes to finish forming, so you won't be waiting for them for too long. The transparent window will let you find out how much ice is left without removing the lid, whereas the automatic sensors will tell you when the ice bucket is full and when the water tank is running low. Now, serving the ice cubes will not always be fun because the ice scoop that's shipped with the machine is not especially comfortable.
Aside from that though, the NETTA Ice Maker Machine makes a compelling case, with its low-noise operation, compact design, and durable construction that can handle any trip.
The Icing on the Cake
Nothing compares to making perfect ice cubes at home, and the NORTHCLAN ice machine is the key. It’s smart and modern, saves you energy and water, and can be used at home or on a trip.
Try the NORTHCLAN, and you’ll be making 9 bullet-shaped crystal cubes of ice in one go. Yes, the ice would be smaller than the freezer batch, but then, it’s really neat and uniform. This handy device can produce up to 14 kg of ice per day, which means around 90 cold drinks in the 24 hours. That’s more than enough for a big house party or a corporate event.
Another pro of this device is that it has a small footprint and won’t clutter your counter space. You can take it anywhere, from camping to an RV/boat trip – and never stop having the ideal ice cubes. Much better than overloading your fridge – or hands, when you’re dragging the ice packs home.
The NORTHCLAN comes with a quality cooling system. The DC fan removes excessive heat while making this device extra quiet (below the 35 dB of noise). Focus on your thoughts or recipes, and not the ice maker, when you’re busy in the kitchen. The ultra-precise infrared sensors will let you know when it’s time to unload the ice bucket or fill the water tank.
To sum up, this practical ice maker will supply your party, corporate event, or travel routine with the first class ice – and without effort.
| Last updated price | £99.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B09NRJC2BZ |
Ice is Close at Hand
When the hot season starts, finding some way to reduce the influence of burning sunbeams is what we desire most no matter where we are. To give you the chance to cool down even while being far from home, the Andrew James Compact Counter Top Ice Maker Machine was created.
To begin with, its relatively light weight and compact size enable you to use it not only at home but even take it to go when travelling by car, boat, or yacht. At the same time, the productivity of this ice maker is second to none of its rivals. The 15-kilogramme daily ice-making capacity along with the 2.2-litre water reservoir and useful extras guarantee that this appliance will meet the needs of even the most demanding users.
Next, the model is not only simple but also safe to use. The device offers various indicators that show when the ice scoop is full or whether the water reservoir requires a refill. The machine also comes with an auto shut-off feature that turns it off if the ice maker is not in use for some time.
One other important feature to take into account is that you can start using the ice maker machine only 2 hours after transportation.
All in all, the Andrew James Ice Maker will definitely suit your needs no matter whether you’re a calm homebody or a curious traveller.
So Convenient to Use
The COSTWAY portable countertop ice maker is definitely among the best appliances of its type. Offered by a trustworthy manufacturer, it's a very sturdy little machine with a smart design. And what makes it suitable just for any kitchen is an array of colour options it's available in. Namely, you can get a traditional white or silver model, as well as a bold red and sleek black one. All of them are equipped with intelligent controls on the top, allowing you to easily manipulate the settings.
Not dissimilar to the majority of other ice makers, the COSTWAY ice maker teams buttons with a LED light showing the selected mode. Next to the control panel, you'll also find a see-through window, enabling you to observe the progress. The window is quite small, meaning the machine can keep the ice cold for longer than those models with big windows. Plus, the inner chamber is well insulated, so if you would like to have some ice whenever during the day, this unit can keep it for you.
When it comes to efficiency, the ice maker can generate 9 cubes within 6-13 minutes (smaller ice cubes take less time to prepare). And the nicest feature is that the machine doesn't beep after each cycle, which most users find a bit annoying. Only a LED light indicates that your ice is already generated.
Besides the obligatory ice scoop, the machine is also supplied with a removable basket that lets you serve the ice cubes right to the table with comfort and ease. A win-win choice on all levels.
| Last updated price | £129.95 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B07FCG76M6 |
Perfect Addition to any Bar
As the people behind the Polar T315 have so eloquently put it, this ice making machine will prove to be a perfect addition to just about any establishment where refreshments are best served ice cold.
Equipped with a 2-litre water reservoir, this appliance is capable of producing up to 11 kilograms of ice in a day. Just like most premium ice makers, it will allow you to make ice cubes of 3 different sizes. This little function is always a welcome addition to these appliances as it adds a decent amount of versatility. That said, there really isn't that much of a difference between small and medium-sized ice cubes, not a significant issue but a drawback nonetheless.
There's a convenient translucent viewing window that will let you peep inside and check on the ice production progress. The matte black finish may not make this portable ice maker look as sleek and dignified as a few other models in this review but it is fingerprint- and smudge-proof, so it will always look presentable. Plus, the inside of the appliance is made of quality BPA-free ABS plastic. The best part about this material is that it is particularly great at preventing any outside odours from infiltrating the ice maker.
Once more, if you run the type of establishment that serves a variety of different refreshing beverages, you cannot go wrong with the Polar T135 portable ice maker. It is as reliable of an appliance as they come. Furthermore, it comes with an ice scoop, so you won't have to waste your time trying to fish out the ice cubes.
What Is a Portable Ice Maker?
A portable ice maker is a compact device for producing ice. It requires neither a water line nor a drain line, making it an ideal solution for mini kitchens with limited countertop space, RVs, boats as well as for travelling, camping, and tailgating. What's more, portable ice makers, despite their compact size, contain a built-in ice regenerator. It produces ice cubes on demand, saving you the need to bother with pre-freezing. Actually, all you need to do is switch the device on, pour some filtered water, and press the button "ON".
Portable ice makers will be a great investment for anyone who loves chilly beverages and often throws parties for their friends. They are small in size, do not require a lot of storage space in a bag or your vehicle, and offer cracking performance, producing a good amount of ice in less than 6-10 minutes, making them a perfect companion for all party makers. If you're in search of a portable ice maker, too, you've come to the right place. In this review, we've gathered some of the best models available.
On the note of chilly drinks, we suggest you might also be interested in reading our comparison of the best soda makers.
What Features to Compare
Storage Capacity and Ice Production Speed
The first thing to consider is how much ice a machine can produce per day. Generally, ice machines can make about 26-28 pounds of ice during 24 hours. A storage capacity determines the max amount of ice the unit can hold at any given time. So, if you often host parties, look for a machine that can offer you 2.5-3 lbs of storage space at least. Another important feature to take into account is the speed of an ice maker. The faster it produces ice, the better. The quickest models can generate a batch of ice in just 5-7 minutes, while the slowest machines may take approximately 13-15 minutes. Smaller ice makers tend to produce ice faster. Also, smaller units usually maintain lower temperatures for longer compared to larger ones, meaning the ice inside mini machines stays cool longer, too.
Dimensions
The dimensions of a unit really matter if you're going to take it with you on trips. The small footprint means that you can easily put it on any counter, including tabletops in RVs. And if the device is also lightweight, you will be able to move it around with less effort. Sizes and designs vary significantly. Some ice makers can be as small as coffee makers, while others can come in bulky dimensions requiring plenty of countertop space. That said, if the weight and the size of the appliance aren't your concerns, remember what we've said earlier - smaller models are usually faster than their larger rivals and they can keep produced ice colder for longer.
Design
It's very convenient if a drain plug is placed at the bottom of the unit rather than on its side. A mash filter is used to protect the ice from dirt, residue, or hair. Despite the fact that many portable ice machines come fitted with special purification filters, it's better to filter tap water prior to adding it to an ice maker. As for aesthetics, ice-making machines are produced in a vast range of styles and colours so it should be easy to find a model that will blend beautifully both with your kitchen interior and with your other kitchen appliances.
Extras
Did you know?
When was the first ice machines invented?
Two centuries ago, ice was a luxury. In hot countries, people had to buy extremely expensive blocks of ice from delivery services. The imported hefty ice blocks were delivered from colder countries or from refrigeration plants. Only in the 19th century, the first ice machine was invented by John Gorrie. It was created in 1842 and patented in 1851 after some upgrading. The machine was able to chill water and produce some ice. However, it was never brought into commercial production.
Alexander Twining, a scientist, has also received a patent for an ice machine and managed to implement it to the first commercial refrigeration system. It happened in 1856, in the US. At the same time, a Scotsman, James Harrison began to study vapor compression. He created his own ice making machine in 1851 and launched it in 1854. The commercial version of his device could produce up to 6,600 lbs of ice per day. It was James Harrison who also invented cooling systems allowing people to transport frozen meat across the world.
What is ice?
Even small children know that ice is just frozen water. The water transforms from a liquid state into a hard solid state when it gets below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The ice also has some special properties: it expands when water freezes and floats in water. When the pressure increases, the melting point decreases. However, did you know that there are as many as sixteen types of ice? The ice that we have in our freezers is called "Ice 4" type. Actually, different types are distinguished by their density.
Liquid water is denser than ice!
Although ice and water have the same composition, they have different levels of density. The molecules inside water (liquid or solid state) arrange themselves in a completely different way. When in liquid water, they can fill in gaps and stay closer to each other than in the ice. So, the ice is less dense than liquid water and, consequently, it can float on water.
Ice as an evidence that there is life on other planets
Scientists and astronauts have recently found ice in outer space. The ice can serve as evidence that we are not the only population in the universe. The life requires water to live, and ice is just the frozen water!
Dry ice?
Dry ice is very effective at keeping different stuff frozen for a long time. Dry ice is produced from a carbon dioxide. It changes its state from gas to solid at the chilling 109.3 degrees F.
Forms of ice
You can find ice not only in your ice making machine or freezer. Ice is also present in nature in various forms: snow, ice sheets, icebergs, glaciers, freezing rain, icicles, hail, sleet, ice crystals, rime, graupel, and even ice fog.
FAQ:
Q: How to clean a portable ice maker?
A: Mold and slime can easily grow inside your ice making machine if you leave it even slightly wet. So, you should always clean your mini ice maker after each use. Cleaning an ice maker is a simple job. Every device usually comes with its specific cleaning instructions in the manual or you can download them on the official website. However, in general, cleaning recommendations are very similar for all models.
At first, you need to unplug the appliance and remove an ice tray. Wipe interior parts with a towel, making sure you reach all corners and recesses. Repeat these actions with an ice tray. Then, make a cleaning solution (10:1 ratio of water to lemon juice or white vinegar) and run this solution through a few cycles. Toss out the ice with cleaning solution and let the machine dry.
Q: Do portable ice makers require a dedicated water line and a dedicated drain line?
A: No and no. This type of appliance needs neither dedicated water line nor dedicated drain line to work. These are the main differences that set a portable ice maker apart from stationary machines. When you need some ice, you should just plug it in an outlet and fill the container with water. The water from melted ice goes back down into the special basin where it's turned back into ice again. To make sure that your ice is fresh, we advise you to drain water at least once a day.
Q: What type of water should I use?
A: The quality of the ice depends on the type of the water you pour into an ice maker. Needless to say, the water must be potable. It's sensible to avoid hard water, as it might lead to mineral build-up and worsen the quality of ice. Distilled water includes fewer minerals, however, it can also cause some issues, since most portable ice machines use sensors that produce ice according to mineral content. It's better to use filtered and purified water to get fresh and tasty ice. It has an optimal mineral content and can't make sensors inside operate improperly.
Q: Can I use a portable ice machine outdoors?
A: Yes, it's a small and lightweight appliance that can be easily moved from one place to another. It can work wherever you have a power outlet. It's good not only for countertops and tabletops but for RV and boats as well. But keep in mind that a very hot temperature can influence the ice production time.
Q: How long does it take a machine to make ice?
A: It depends on a specific model. On average, a portable ice machine produces ice within 7-15 minutes. Some factors might slow down the production of ice - the type of added water, the age of an ice machine, and the frequency of use.
Q: Can I use a portable ice maker as a freezer?
A: No, it's not an alternative to a freezer. Although it has an insulated exterior, the ice will slowly melt in the tray.
Q: How much electricity does an ice maker consume?
A: The amount of used electricity varies from model to model. Usually, they aren't very energy efficient. You can hardly find an EnergyStar certified appliance. Yet, this doesn’t mean that they are very expensive to run either. They use much less electricity than stationary ice machines.
Sources:
1. Autumn Spanne 15 Blissfully Cool Facts About Ice, Mental Floss. August 15, 2016.
2. Icemaker, Wikipedia.
3. Carol Gold Is it Healthy to Drink Cold Water, LIVESTRONG.COM.
4. 40 Cool Drinks for a Hot Day, Real Simple.