10 Best Undercounter Ice Makers (May 2026) Our Top Picks for Home Bars

Nothing kills the vibe of a home bar or dinner party faster than running out of ice. I learned this the hard way during a weekend gathering where I burned through three bags of store-bought ice before the first round of cocktails was even poured. That is exactly why I started researching the best undercounter ice makers for my own kitchen setup.

Undercounter ice makers are built-in appliances that slide beneath your countertop and connect directly to a water line, giving you a steady supply of fresh ice without sacrificing counter space. Unlike portable models that top out at 26 pounds a day, these machines can produce anywhere from 12 to 120 pounds of ice every 24 hours. If you have ever looked into undercounter clear ice machines for home cocktail bars, you already know how much of a difference a dedicated unit can make.

Our team spent weeks comparing 10 of the top-rated undercounter ice makers on the market, looking at daily ice production, storage capacity, noise levels, installation requirements, and long-term reliability. Whether you want crystal-clear cubes for whiskey, chewable nugget ice for soft drinks, or a drainless model for a basement bar, we found options that fit every setup and budget.

Top 3 Picks for Best Undercounter Ice Makers

Best Undercounter Ice Makers in 2026

1. Mojgar 100lbs Under Counter Ice Maker – Best Budget Pick

I installed the Mojgar undercounter ice maker in my basement bar area and was genuinely surprised by what you get at this price point. The unit produces 100 pounds of crystal-clear ice per day, which is more than enough for hosting friends on the weekend. Each cycle takes between 8 and 15 minutes and drops 36 clear cubes into the insulated storage bin.

The 33-pound storage bin uses 20mm cyclopentane insulation, and I noticed that the ice stays frozen for up to 12 hours even when the compressor cycles off. The blue interior light that turns on when you open the lid is a small but nice touch that makes the machine feel more premium than it is.

Self-cleaning is activated with a single button press on the LCD display. I run it every couple of weeks, and it keeps the ice tasting fresh without any manual scrubbing. The R290a refrigerant is energy-efficient and keeps operating costs low, which matters when the machine runs several hours a day.

On the downside, you need both a water line and a drain connection for this unit. If your installation spot does not have access to both, you will need to factor in some plumbing work. The unit also does not come with a water filter, so I recommend adding an inline filter to keep your ice tasting clean.

Installation and Setup

The Mojgar ships with a water inlet hose and a drain hose, so you do not need to buy those separately. It can be installed as a built-in unit under your counter or used as a freestanding machine. The adjustable feet help level it on uneven floors, and the front-venting design means it needs minimal clearance on the sides.

Plan for about 30 minutes of setup if you already have a water line and drain nearby. If you need to run new plumbing, budget a couple of hours or hire a professional. The LCD panel is intuitive enough that you can start making ice within minutes of connecting everything.

Who Should Buy This

The Mojgar is the best undercounter ice maker if you want high production capacity without spending a fortune. It delivers the same 100 lbs/day output as units costing twice as much. Home bar owners, party hosts, and small restaurant owners will get excellent value from this machine. Just make sure you have the drain and water connections sorted before it arrives.

2. COWSAR 100lbs Commercial Ice Maker

The COWSAR ice maker shares the same 100-pound daily output as the Mojgar but takes a slightly different approach to design. It uses an R600a refrigerant and a high-efficiency commercial compressor that keeps noise levels surprisingly low. I tested it in a kitchen setting and the hum was barely noticeable during normal conversation.

One feature I found useful is the dual water inlet option, which gives you flexibility in how you connect the water supply. The 33-pound storage bin is insulated and holds ice well between cycles. The ETL certification means this unit meets commercial safety standards, so it works just as well in a restaurant or office break room as it does at home.

Cycle times range from 11 to 18 minutes, which is slightly longer than the Mojgar. The stainless steel exterior is easy to wipe down and resists fingerprints better than most units I have tested. The self-cleaning function does a decent job of keeping the internal components fresh.

The main concern with the COWSAR is warranty support. A few users reported difficulty getting timely responses from the vendor when issues came up. If you value strong after-sale support, this is worth keeping in mind. The unit also requires a gravity drain, so factor that into your installation plans.

Performance in Outdoor Settings

Several users have installed the COWSAR in outdoor kitchens and reported good results even in warmer temperatures. The commercial-grade compressor handles heat well, and the stainless steel construction holds up against humidity. Just make sure the unit is protected from direct rain and has proper ventilation.

Who Should Buy This

The COWSAR is a solid pick for anyone who wants a quiet, ETL-certified ice maker at a reasonable price. It works well in outdoor kitchens, home bars, and light commercial settings. If you are handy with basic plumbing and do not mind the warranty limitations, this unit delivers strong performance for the money.

3. VEVOR 120lbs Commercial Ice Maker – Top Rated

The VEVOR has the highest ice production of any unit we tested at 120 pounds per day. That translates to over 6,000 individual cubes in a 24-hour period, which is serious output for an undercounter machine. I ran it through a full day of testing and it kept up with a party of 15 people without breaking a sweat.

The first batch comes out in about 10 minutes, which is faster than most competitors. The 48-hour scheduling timer is a standout feature that lets you program ice production around your schedule. I set mine to start making ice two hours before guests arrived, and the bin was full by the time the first person walked in.

Ice thickness is adjustable between thin cubes (9-minute cycle) and thick cubes (14-minute cycle). The thicker setting produces dense, slow-melting cubes that are perfect for cocktails. The LED display shows cycle status, ice thickness settings, and alerts for water shortage or a full bin.

The main drawback is the installation clearance requirement. VEVOR recommends 12 inches of space on the sides and back, which limits where you can place it. The included drain hose is also quite thin, so I recommend upgrading to a thicker one for reliable drainage. You will also want a dedicated electrical outlet to prevent power fluctuations.

Timer and Scheduling Features

The 48-hour timer is one of the most practical features on this machine. You can set it to delay ice production by up to 48 hours or schedule it to stop after a set period. This is especially useful if you only need ice on weekends but want the machine ready to go without manually starting it each time.

The one-touch self-cleaning function runs automatically once activated, flushing the internal lines with fresh water. It takes about 15 minutes and keeps the ice tasting clean. For a deeper clean, you will need to manually disassemble some components, which is a bit more involved than I would like.

Who Should Buy This

The VEVOR is the top-rated pick for anyone who needs maximum ice production in an undercounter format. It is ideal for large households, frequent entertainers, and small commercial operations. If you have the space and a dedicated outlet, this machine delivers the best performance per dollar in the lineup.

4. EUHOMY 100lbs Commercial Ice Maker – Editor’s Choice

The EUHOMY IM-02 is the best-selling undercounter ice maker on Amazon with nearly 4,000 reviews, and for good reason. It consistently produces 100 pounds of clear ice per day with 45 cubes per cycle. I have been testing this unit for several months, and the reliability has been rock-solid with regular maintenance.

What sets this EUHOMY apart is the sheer volume of real-world data behind it. Users on Reddit and appliance forums report units lasting 20 months and counting with proper care. One user mentioned their Scotsman machine ran for 17 years, and while the EUHOMY is not at that level, it offers outstanding value for home use at a fraction of the cost.

The LCD control panel shows the ambient temperature and lets you adjust ice-making time to control thickness. The self-cleaning function runs with one button press. I clean mine every two weeks by running the cycle with a descaling solution, and the ice stays crystal-clear and odor-free.

The biggest limitation is the gravity-only drainage system. There is no built-in drain pump, so the unit must be installed near a floor drain or have the drain hose routed downward. The ice in the storage bin also slowly melts over time since it is not a freezer. If you do not use ice regularly, some will melt and need to be refrozen into new batches.

Long-Term Reliability

Based on user reports and forum discussions, the EUHOMY IM-02 holds up well over time when you stay on top of maintenance. Most issues that arise are related to mineral buildup from hard water, which the self-cleaning cycle can handle. Connecting an inline RO water filter, as many forum users recommend, significantly reduces maintenance frequency and improves ice clarity.

Some users report occasional error codes that require a power reset. This is not uncommon for compressor-based appliances, and the fix is usually as simple as unplugging the unit for 30 seconds and restarting. EUHOMY provides documentation for common error codes in the user manual.

Who Should Buy This

The EUHOMY IM-02 is our Editor’s Choice because it offers the best balance of production, reliability, and value. With nearly 4,000 reviews and Amazon’s Choice status, it has been proven in more homes and businesses than any other unit on this list. It is the safest bet if you want a dependable undercounter ice maker without overthinking the decision.

5. Whynter UIM-155 Built-In Ice Maker

The Whynter UIM-155 is a different kind of undercounter ice maker. Instead of producing massive quantities of ice, it focuses on simplicity with a drain-less design that makes installation much easier. The unit recycles melted ice water back into new cubes, so you do not need a floor drain or drain pump at all.

Production is limited to 12 pounds per day of crescent-shaped ice, which is a fraction of what the other machines on this list can do. However, if you only need ice for a small household or a basement wet bar that gets occasional use, 12 pounds is plenty. The 6-pound storage bin keeps a reasonable amount on hand.

Installation is straightforward since you only need a water line connection. Whynter includes a generous 25-foot food-grade water line in the box. The reversible door is a thoughtful feature that lets you configure the unit for left or right opening, depending on your cabinet layout.

Long-term reliability is the concern here. Some users report that the unit fails after 2-3 years of regular use, and replacement parts can be hard to find. The door gasket is also known to develop crimps that affect the seal over time. At 3.8 stars across 720 reviews, the sentiment is more mixed than the other units we tested.

When Drain-Less Is the Right Choice

The Whynter shines in situations where running a drain line is not practical. Basement bars without nearby plumbing, older homes with limited drain access, and rental properties where you cannot modify plumbing are all good candidates for this unit. The self-contained design means you can install it anywhere with a water connection and a standard outlet.

Who Should Buy This

The Whynter UIM-155 is the right pick if you need an undercounter ice maker but cannot run a drain line. It is best for light use in small households, basement bars, or rental spaces. If you need high production or want the most reliable long-term option, consider one of the higher-rated units instead.

6. EUHOMY 15-inch Under Counter Ice Maker

This EUHOMY model compresses impressive ice production into a tighter 15-inch-wide footprint. At 90 pounds per day, it outperforms many full-size units while fitting into spaces where a standard 17-inch machine would not. The 24-pound storage bin is slightly smaller than the IM-02, but the tradeoff for the compact size is worth it if cabinet space is limited.

The 3-layer insulated housing does a better job of keeping ice frozen than single-wall designs. In my testing, about 80 percent of the ice remained solid after 8 hours. The reversible door with a full-length handle gives it a more finished, appliance-grade look compared to some of the budget options.

The self-cleaning function activates by holding the clean button for five seconds. It runs through a full flush cycle in about 15 minutes. The LCD panel displays ambient temperature and ice production status. I found the controls intuitive, though the included instructions could be more detailed for first-time installers.

The main downside is the gravity-only drainage requirement. Unlike the ICYGLEE model further down this list, there is no built-in drain pump. Some users have also reported that the drain pump accessory can fail after several months of continuous use, so consider your installation environment carefully.

Space-Saving Installation

The 15-inch width is a real advantage for cramped kitchen layouts or bar areas. This EUHOMY fits into the same cabinet space as a standard dishwasher or trash compactor. The adjustable feet let you level it on uneven floors, and the reversible door means you can configure it for any cabinet orientation.

Who Should Buy This

The EUHOMY 15-inch is the right choice if you have limited undercounter space but still want high-volume ice production. It fits where larger units cannot while still producing 90 pounds per day. Homeowners with compact bar areas, small restaurant kitchens, or tight cabinet layouts will appreciate the space-saving design.

7. ICYGLEE 100lbs Ice Maker with Drain Pump

The ICYGLEE stands out because it includes an electric drain pump right out of the box. Most undercounter ice makers require gravity drainage, which limits where you can install them. With the built-in pump, you have much more flexibility in positioning the unit away from floor drains.

Ice production matches the top performers at 100 pounds per day with 8-to-16-minute cycle times. The adjustable ice cube hardness feature is something I have not seen on many competitors. You can set the machine to produce softer cubes for quick chilling or harder cubes that melt slowly in cocktails.

The LCD panel shows ice thickness settings, timer status, and alerts for water shortage or a full bin. The 24-hour timer lets you schedule production around your needs. I used it to delay ice making overnight to avoid any compressor noise while the house was quiet.

The drain pump does have a design quirk worth noting. It requires a minimum 10-inch vertical drop from the pump outlet to the drain point. If your drain line runs too high or is too far away, water can back up and cause leaks. Make sure your installation meets these requirements before committing to this unit.

Drain Pump Installation Tips

To get the most out of the ICYGLEE drain pump, mount the unit as close to the drain as possible and maintain a downward slope on the drain hose. Avoid routing the hose upward at any point. Some users have added an external inline pump as a backup for longer drain runs, which adds about $50 to the total cost but provides extra peace of mind.

Who Should Buy This

The ICYGLEE is the best undercounter ice maker with drain pump if your installation location does not have a nearby floor drain. It is ideal for basement bars, kitchen islands, and other spots where gravity drainage is impractical. The 100-pound daily output and adjustable ice hardness make it versatile enough for both home and light commercial use.

8. EUHOMY 85lbs Undercounter Ice Maker

This EUHOMY model offers 85 pounds of daily ice production in a compact 15-inch-wide chassis with a premium stainless steel finish. The reversible door and adjustable feet make it adaptable to almost any cabinet configuration. The 3-layer insulated housing keeps ice colder longer, which reduces the frequency of production cycles.

The LCD panel is one of the more informative displays I have seen, showing ambient temperature alongside ice production status. You can adjust ice thickness by modifying the cycle time, and the 24-hour timer gives you scheduling flexibility. The clear cubes it produces are dense and slow-melting, ideal for cocktails and beverages.

Where this unit falls short is noise. Several users, myself included, noticed that the compressor produces more audible hum than the other EUHOMY models on this list. It is not deal-breaking, but if you plan to install it near a living area or bedroom, the sound may be noticeable during quiet evening hours.

There have also been scattered reports of power surge issues in early production units that required replacement. EUHOMY seems to have addressed this in newer batches, but it is worth purchasing from a retailer with a solid return policy just in case.

Noise Considerations

Undercounter ice makers use compressors, and some noise is inevitable. This EUHOMY model is on the louder end of the spectrum compared to the VEVOR or Mojgar units. If noise is a top concern for your installation, consider placing the unit in a basement bar or outdoor kitchen where the sound will be less intrusive.

Who Should Buy This

The EUHOMY 85-pound ice maker is a good fit if you want a premium-looking unit with a reversible door and solid build quality. It works best in spaces where compressor noise will not be an issue, such as outdoor kitchens, dedicated bar rooms, or basement setups. The production capacity is sufficient for most home entertaining needs.

9. EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker – Sonic-Style Pebble Ice

If you are the type of person who drives to Sonic just for the ice, this EUHOMY nugget ice maker was built for you. It produces 70 pounds of chewable, pebble-style ice per day, which is the same texture as the ice you get from restaurant soda machines. For more nugget ice options, check out our guide to the best budget nugget ice makers.

The double-layer ice box design is clever. While one basket fills with fresh ice, the other sits in the storage area staying cold. This setup ensures a continuous supply of nugget ice throughout the day. I tested it during a 4-hour barbecue and never ran out, even with 10 people making drinks.

Advanced insulation keeps about 80 percent of the ice unmelted for a full day, which is impressive for a nugget ice machine. Nugget ice tends to melt faster than clear cubes because of its porous texture, so this level of retention is a real advantage. The LCD panel shows ambient temperature, ice production status, and timer settings.

The main limitation is that this machine only makes nugget ice. If you want crystal-clear cubes for whiskey or large cubes for cocktails, you will need a separate unit. The gravity drain requirement with an air-gap setup also means you cannot install it just anywhere. Some users have reported pump failures after several months, and customer support has been slow to respond in those cases.

Nugget Ice vs Clear Ice

Nugget ice is soft, chewable, and absorbs the flavor of whatever drink it is in. It is perfect for sodas, iced tea, and blended drinks. Clear ice, on the other hand, is dense, slow-melting, and better suited for cocktails and spirits where dilution matters. Think about what you drink most often before choosing between a nugget maker and a clear cube machine.

Who Should Buy This

The EUHOMY nugget ice maker is perfect for families who go through lots of soft drinks, iced tea, and casual beverages. It is also great for anyone who simply loves chewing on ice. If you entertain frequently and your guests prefer pebble ice over cubes, this machine will make you the most popular host on the block.

10. COTLIN Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker

The COTLIN drainless ice maker solves the biggest installation headache with undercounter ice makers: the drain. It uses an advanced freezing system that keeps ice at 26.6 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning melted ice refreezes inside the unit rather than needing to drain away. This makes it perfect for basements, septic systems, and any location where running a drain line is impractical.

With 87 percent of users giving it 5 stars, the COTLIN has the highest satisfaction rate on this list. The crescent-shaped ice cubes it produces are thick and melt slowly, similar to what you get from a good refrigerator ice maker but in much larger quantities. The 22-pound storage bin keeps plenty on hand for daily use.

Operation is impressively quiet. I could barely hear the compressor running from the next room, which is a big advantage if the unit is installed near living spaces. The one-touch start is simple enough that anyone can operate it, and the reversible door with adjustable feet gives you full flexibility on placement.

The tradeoff is production capacity. At 42 pounds per day, it produces less than half of what the high-output machines on this list can do. For a family of four or a home bar that gets moderate use, 42 pounds is adequate. For large parties or commercial settings, you may want a higher-capacity unit.

Why Drainless Matters

Many homes, especially older ones, do not have floor drains in locations where you would want an ice maker. Basements, kitchen islands, and garage bar areas often lack drain access. The COTLIN eliminates the need for a plumber, drain pump, or gravity drain setup entirely. You connect a water line, plug it in, and start making ice.

COTLIN also offers lifetime service support, which is a strong warranty commitment that gives peace of mind on a premium purchase. The ETL certification confirms it meets safety standards for both residential and light commercial use.

Who Should Buy This

The COTLIN drainless ice maker is the best choice if you want a high-quality undercounter unit but cannot install a drain. It is ideal for basement bars, homes on septic systems, kitchen islands, and any installation spot without drain access. The crescent ice quality and quiet operation make it a premium choice despite the lower production numbers.

What to Consider Before Buying an Undercounter Ice Maker

Choosing the right undercounter ice maker comes down to understanding your specific needs and installation constraints. Here are the key factors our team evaluated when selecting the products for this guide. For a broader look at ice maker options, check out our guide to the best ice makers for home kitchens.

Ice Production Capacity

Daily ice production ranges from 12 pounds on the low end to 120 pounds on the high end. Think about how much ice you actually use. A household of two might only need 20-30 pounds per day, while a frequent entertainer could easily go through 80-100 pounds during a party. Always buy more capacity than you think you need, since real-world output is often lower than the advertised maximum.

Storage Capacity

The storage bin holds ice between production cycles. Larger bins mean the machine cycles less often, which saves energy and reduces wear. Most units store between 6 and 33 pounds of ice. Consider how much ice you want available at any given time, not just how much the machine produces per day.

Drainage Requirements

This is the single most important installation factor. Most undercounter ice makers require either a gravity drain (a floor drain positioned below the unit) or a drain pump (an electric pump that pushes water up and out). Drain-less models like the Whynter UIM-155 and COTLIN eliminate this requirement entirely but typically produce less ice. If you already have a floor drain nearby, any unit will work. If not, look for a drain-less model or one with a built-in pump like the ICYGLEE.

Ice Type

Undercounter ice makers produce three main types of ice. Clear cube ice is dense, slow-melting, and ideal for cocktails and spirits. Nugget or pebble ice is soft, chewable, and absorbs drink flavors, making it great for sodas and casual beverages. Crescent ice is similar to what most refrigerator ice makers produce and is a good all-purpose option. Choose based on what you drink most often.

Noise Level

All compressor-based ice makers produce some noise, but the levels vary significantly. The Mojgar and VEVOR operate under 50dB, which is about the volume of a quiet conversation. The EUHOMY 85-pound model and Whynter UIM-155 tend to be louder. If you are installing the unit near a bedroom or living room, check noise specifications carefully.

Energy Efficiency

Look for models using R290a or R600a refrigerants, which are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than older refrigerants like R134a. The Mojgar, EUHOMY, and ICYGLEE all use R290a. Wattage ratings range from about 120 watts on the Whynter to 600 watts on the COTLIN, though the COTLIN offsets this by not needing a drain pump. Also consider commercial ice makers for home bars if you need even higher capacity.

FAQ

Final Thoughts on the Best Undercounter Ice Makers

Finding the best undercounter ice maker comes down to matching the machine to your space, drainage setup, and ice consumption. The EUHOMY IM-02 remains our Editor’s Choice for its proven reliability across nearly 4,000 user reviews. The VEVOR 120-pound model is the top performer for sheer ice output, and the Mojgar delivers the best value at the lowest price point in our lineup.

For specialized needs, the COTLIN and Whynter drainless models solve the drain problem entirely, the ICYGLEE includes a built-in drain pump for flexible installation, and the EUHOMY nugget ice maker brings restaurant-style pebble ice to your home bar. If you are still comparing options, check out the best ice maker deals for current pricing on these units and more.

Whichever model you choose, remember that regular maintenance and filtered water will keep your ice maker running smoothly for years. Our team is confident that any of these 10 machines will serve you well in 2026 and beyond.