How many fit
11 of the 23 models checked meet every need here: “I don't have much counter room”, “I want my first ice in a hurry”, and “I prefer simple buttons to an app”.
11 models fit, out of 23 checkedPicked for one job
Frigidaire EFIC189 makes especially good use of space
Top pick
Frigidaire Compact Ice Maker
A very small footprint and a fast batch go together in EFIC189. Chefman Compact weighs less. For nugget ice in a compact machine, NewAir NIM026SSN0 is the choice.
Why it suits this job
- Counter space used
- Airflow needs
- The catch
- Independent testing found the two bullet sizes close to each other in practice.
- Go with Iceman by Chefman Compact Dual-Size Ice Maker if
- Minimal counter room and light use for yourself
More reasons we picked it
- Initial batch
- Practical output
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Before choosing a compact machine, measure width, depth, lid clearance and ventilation.
By the numbers
What the data shows
What we found across the countertop ice makers we compare, plus the checked facts behind each finding.
Show the facts and the math
How we countedThe count uses each product's current fit ratings for “I don't have much counter room”, “I want my first ice in a hurry”, and “I prefer simple buttons to an app”. A need with no documented match is not counted.
| Product | Needs it meets | Facts we checked | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frigidaire Compact Ice Maker |
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| Iceman by Chefman Compact Dual-Size Ice Maker |
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| NewAir 26 lb Nugget Ice Maker |
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3 options
The top pick and the alternatives
Frigidaire, EFIC189-Silver
Compact Ice Maker
Simple controls, two sizes and one of the smallest footprints in the set come with this proven 26-pound bullet maker.
Top pick ifQuick, no-fuss everyday ice that does not cost much
Key facts
- Frigidaire's rating for the machine is 26 pounds of ice per day.
- First ice came in under seven minutes, as measured by Popular Mechanics.
The catch
Independent testing found the two bullet sizes close to each other in practice.
Iceman by Chefman, RJ56-BUL-12
Compact Dual-Size Ice Maker
This very small bullet maker is a 22-pound model with two size settings, a viewing window and a self-clean cycle.
Best forMinimal counter room and light use for yourself
Key facts
- The machine came in at 13 pounds 7 ounces on Food Network's measurement.
- RJ56-BUL-12 is how Chefman identifies the exact model.
The catch
Nothing else in this set has a lower capacity than its 22-pound daily rating and small tank.
NewAir, NIM026SSN0
26 lb Nugget Ice Maker
Narrow and stainless, it makes nugget ice from a simple one-button interface and has a self-cleaning cycle.
Best forNugget ice every day where counters are narrow
Key facts
- NewAir's rating is 26 pounds per day, with ice in about ten minutes.
- The stainless model stands 12.7 inches high, 8.7 inches deep and 11.3 inches wide.
The catch
With a 26-pound rating and a small bin, it suits one or two users better than a long stretch of entertaining.
Ready to buy
See today’s price and what owners say
Top pick for this job
Frigidaire Compact Ice Maker
Counter space used
See price & reviews on AmazonPick this instead if
Iceman by Chefman Compact Dual-Size Ice Maker
Minimal counter room and light use for yourself
See price & reviews on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying Amazon purchases. How we make money