The best clear ice maker can elevate your cocktails without much effort. Clear ice isn’t just for show, it practically melts slower and keeps drinks tasting exactly as intended. Unlike those quick-melting refrigerator cubes that water down your drinks, quality clear ice maintains the perfect balance of flavors from first sip to last.
Clear ice mostly benefit beverage businesses, however, if you want to make your home bar more memorable, you can’t skip a clear ice maker. Without trapped air bubbles and impurities, it doesn’t affect your crafted drinks. “A cocktail done right can really show your guests that you care.”
It isn’t easy to buy the best clear ice maker. Marketing is just marketing, and nothing can tell that the clear ice will be exactly like the first time you buy the ice maker. Only experience can lower the risk, and I’m happy to share the experience.
No need to waste time browsing other sites for the perfect ice maker to suit your needs. Here at Ice Artisan:
- I continually update my list of top ice makers to ensure you always get the latest, best ice maker.
- I deliver honest reviews—as a full-time ice maker technician—so you can make the best choice.
- I never hype a product just to earn a click or a sale.
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Best clear ice maker comparison: My top picks at a glance
For those of you short on time, I’ve used AI to make this comprehensive comparison table of the best clear ice maker. It summarizes the key features, prices, and specifications of each model so you can consider which ice maker best fits your specific needs. If a particular model catches your interest, you can scroll up to read my detailed hands-on analysis and professional insights about that specific clear ice maker.
| Model | Price | Internal Ice Storage | Production Rate | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ-AD | $3,200 | 22 lbs | 55 lbs/day | Read more |
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Frigidaire EFIC452-SS | $150 | 2.4 lbs | 44 lbs/day | Read more |
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Euhomy IM-FM | $150 | 1.8 lbs | 35 lbs/day | Read more |
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NewAir ClearIce40 | $200 | 2.4 lbs | 44 lbs/day | Read more |
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Euhomy CIM009-100BS | $1,200 | 45 lbs | 100 lbs/day | Read more |
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NewAir NCI080SS00 | $1,199 | 25 lbs | 80 lbs/day | Read more |
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Summit BIM44GADA | $2,750 | 25 lbs | 44 lbs/day | Read more |
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Scotsman UC2024SA-1 | $3,100 | 80 lbs | 227 lbs/day | Read more |
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Ice-O-Matic ICEU220FA | $2,300 | 70 lbs | 238 lbs/day | Read more |
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Manitowoc NEO UYF0140A | $2,400 | 90 lbs | 137 lbs/day | Read more |
Best clear ice maker in 2025
My Pick
The best clear ice maker for serious buyers is unquestionably the Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ. This commercial-grade undercounter clear ice maker delivers the absolute standard of clear ice quality through its revolutionary “top-hat” crescent ice. That’s why in bars, we called it “gourmet ice”.
Bar owners immediately notice the distinctive aesthetic these top-hat crescent ices bring to their signature cocktails. Unlike conventional cube or cylinder shapes, these crescent ices boost spirits perfectly, creating an experience customers will remember and return for.
And who don’t love the Japanese engineering excellence? It is what makes Panasonic and Mitsubishi top-of-the-world brands for appliances, and clearly Hoshizaki is the golden standard for commercial ice makers. We can think of the Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ as a generational investment, nothing less. I find the Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ to outlast even some of us, and still make clear gourmet ice as good as day one.
Bottom line: if you refuse to compromise on quality, the Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ is simply the best clear ice maker. Anyone serious about their beverage job understands that exceptional ice is the foundation everything else builds upon.
Related post: Best ice maker 2025.
For Homeowners
Best budget clear ice maker
The Frigidaire EFIC452-SS is a great starting point for anyone wanting clear ice without spending a fortune. At about $150, this countertop ice maker gives you pretty good results for the price. Being the countertop ice maker from Frigidaire – a known brand since 1919, the Frigidaire EFIC452-SS is certainly the best budget clear ice maker.
Unlike the cloudy ice from your refrigerator, the Frigidaire EFIC452-SS uses a special process to make a batch of clear ice, with two different sizes. They’re not perfectly clear like the expensive Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ that restaurants use, but they’re definitely better than regular cloudy ices. Certainly you will notice the difference.
For homeowners, the Frigidaire EFIC452-SS seems to be a better pick, because it fits nicely on your kitchen counter and doesn’t need any special installation or plumbing. This makes it especially perfect for renters or anyone with limited kitchen space who can’t install a built-in undercounter model.
Just know what you’re getting – this is a starter unit that makes somewhat clear ice, not the perfect crystal-clear ice from professional machines. But for regular homeowners who want to improve the visual for their drinks without spending thousands, and still need a good brand as the backup, the Frigidaire EFIC452-SS is the best clear ice maker.
Related post: Best countertop ice maker.
Another budget clear ice maker
The Euhomy IM-FM is a great alternative to the Frigidaire EFIC452-SS, thanks to its extra tank of water. Many people will pick this countertop ice maker to save their precious time just for refilling water. However, I must remind you that the storage capacity of the Euhomy IM-FM is less than the Frigidaire EFIC452-SS, and you still need to take ice out for the ice machine to continue working.
A major selling point is that the Euhomy IM-FM is often priced even lower than the Frigidaire EFIC452-SS, while offering similar performance. The Euhomy IM-FM is strictly sold online without showroom displays, but for a budget countertop ice maker, I can assure you the Euhomy IM-FM is legit.
Other pluses for having the Euhomy IM-FM are its many color options, which suits more tastes than what other countertop ice makers at that price point can’t. It also makes clear ice impressively quick, saving you about 10% of time as the Frigidaire EFIC452-SS.
Budget-conscious shoppers should keep an eye on pricing between these countertop ice maker models, as the Euhomy IM-FM frequently offers the better value. While support might not match premium brands, the significant savings make this a reasonable risk for those crave the clear ices.
Better countertop clarity
The NewAir ClearIce40 is another solid countertop option for homeowners looking for clear ice at as little money as possible. The clarity of its ice cubes is noticeably better than the cheaper options, and you can find it is clear the most on center.
The stainless steel design looks nicer in most kitchens, fitting easily on your counter without taking up too much space. The NewAir ClearIce40 doesn’t require any special installation or plumbing, so you can just plug it in and start making ice right away.
One important thing to know: prices for these NewAir models can change frequently. Sometimes the NewAir ClearIce40 is even cheaper than the Frigidaire EFIC452-SS. It’s worth checking both prices before you buy, since they work on the same basis. Just grab whichever one costs less when you’re shopping.
The ice quality is good for the price range – not perfect like commercial machines costing thousands, but definitely an upgrade from regular cloudy ice. For everyday home use, this budget-friendly ice maker hits the right balance between price and performance. It’s a practical way to enjoy some of the benefits of clear ice without investing in a commercial-grade machine.
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Best budget undercounter clear ice maker
The Euhomy CIM009-100BS is the best budget undercounter clear ice maker for homeowners and small bar owners who need more clear ice. This undercounter unit produces about 4-5 times more clear ices than portable models like the NewAir series, making it ideal for larger families or small businesses that go through ice quickly.
Installation under your counter saves valuable workspace while providing a built-in look that blends seamlessly with your kitchen or bar area. The big advantage over countertop models is that it hooks right up to your water line, so you don’t have to keep refilling it with water throughout the day. Just set it up once and it keeps making ice whenever you need it.
Euhomy is constantly considered as the Amazon’s best sellers for their starter countertop ice makers. However, the company knows many good things for their undercounter ice makers, even giving the $1500+ appliances in the market. For the price of the Euhomy CIM009-100BS, I don’t have a doubt getting the Euhomy.
For households that frequently host parties or small bars just starting out, the Euhomy CIM009-100BS is a smart investment. 100lbs of clear ice per day is enough to help you enjoy the days. If you regularly find yourself needing more ice than how countertop models can provide, but don’t require (or can’t justify) a commercial-grade machine, the Euhomy CIM009-100BS is certainly your best bet.
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For Businesses
Mid-range undercounter clear ice maker
The NewAir NCI080SS00 is the most selected mid-range option in the crowded market of commercial undercounter clear ice makers from China. This commercial ice maker produces up to 80 pounds of crystal-clear ice daily, perfect for small bars and beverage businesses needing consistent quality ice but can’t afford a Manitowoc.
The NewAir NCI080SS00 directly competes with the EdgeStar IB250SS, which has earned a solid reputation for clear ice production, but the NewAir ice maker usually has a more appealing deal. Both offer identical one-year warranty coverage, yet the cost difference often makes the NewAir the smarter business decision.
The user-friendly controls allow adjustments to ice thickness and cycle timing to meet your requirements. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel exterior maintains a professional appearance even during busy service periods, especially important when your bar area remains visible to customers.
Despite the NewAir NCI080SS00’s current value advantage, the EdgeStar IB250SS could easily reclaim the top spot with just a few upgrades to its internal components, especially those affecting long-term reliability. The EdgeStar also offers an outdoor version, and as you can see an outdoor ice maker is not a bad idea. The ongoing battle between these mid-range rivals is great news for bar owners, as both brands keep trying to outdo each other with better performance at lower prices.
$1500 Undercounter clear ice maker
Moving on to the range of $1500, we mainly choose between the Summit BIM44GADA and the Euhomy Commercial 400 to get the best clear ice maker, making large-size ice cubes. My pick today is the Summit BIM44GADA, which is a brand from the U.S, and backs by a five-year warranty on the compressor, making it a much more reasonable option for the price.
Built with front-breathing cooling systems, installation for the Summit BIM44GADA works seamlessly in tight spaces. Its door is flexible and can be operated from both sides. The Summit BIM44GADA is truly a workhorse that can rival even the top brands in terms of durability.
Choosing between the Summit BIM44GADA and Euhomy Commercial 400 ultimately comes down to long-term thinking. While both deliver the same one-year warranty for the machine, the Summit tips the scale in its favor with 5-year warranty for its compressor. At $1500, it’s too much a risk for getting a Chinese ice maker that can only be found online, just to save a few dollars.
With the recent Trump tariff, the Summit BIM44GADA which is mostly made of South Korean parts can be actually cheaper than the Euhomy Commercial 400, making it a stable option for this price point. After all, I will always prefer an ice maker that I can find on a local store.
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For Big Businesses
Best energy-saving clear ice maker
The Scotsman UC2024SA-1 is a great choice for serious beverage businesses demanding crystal-clear ice without compromise. This commercial ice maker produces traditional small and medium cubes that are widely used in more different beverages, differentiating it from the Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ’s specialty top-hat crescents.
Bar and restaurant owners will love how these medium-sized traditional cubes work with all drinks in the menu. These regular ice cubes feature a solid build with nearly 100% ice-to-water ratio, meaning slower melting that won’t quickly water down your soft and mixed drinks – perfect for maintaining flavor integrity in premium cocktails while still accommodating high-volume service periods. In fact, you can expect double the daily production of other gourmet ice makers from the Scotsman UC2024SA-1.
The machine’s Energy Star certification represents huge operational savings over competitors, a critical factor for businesses controlling their utility costs. Scotsman has designed this model to reduce energy and water consumption, thus the Scotsman UC2024SA-1 requires less money to produce the same quantity of ice, everyday.
Best energy-saving clear ice maker
If the Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ delivers top-hat clear ices, the Manitowoc UYF-0140A brings virtually transparent half-dice ices, then which ice maker should you buy when you specifically need large ice cubes? It’s that familiar clinking sound in your favorite beverage – fresh, crystal-clear ice that tumbles into glasses at restaurants and bars worldwide, cooling drinks while preserving flavor. Yes, the answer is this Ice-O-Matic ICEU220FA.
Unlike other competitors looking for “gourmet ice” with different shape and size, the Ice-O-Matic ICEU220FA is still loyal with the traditional large-size cube ices. Statistics show that large-size cube ice is still the most favorite ice types when buying a commercial ice maker, because it’s better for maintain the ice maker’s durability, and large ice cubes are premium with its size only.
While I don’t like to keep repeating about the extraordinary durability of an Ice-O-Matic ice maker, I like to praise its ice cubes. Large ice cubes are the top choice in bars and restaurants for three simple reasons:
- Much slower melt rate than small cubes, so drinks stay cold longer without getting watery and diluted.
- More premium looks in the glass, creating that satisfying clink sound.
- More cost-effective for businesses since fewer large cubes are needed per drink than smaller ones, saving on production costs over time.
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Best high clarity ice maker
If we’re looking for the clearest of them all, the half-dice cubes from the Manitowoc UYF-0140A are the best. Yes, no contest. Its crystal-clear perfection is the endgame for any other brands to replicate, and fail in attempt to do so.
The machine incorporates advanced antimicrobial protection throughout its internal components, featuring Alpha-San antimicrobial protection and a sealed foodzone that ensures ice remains pristine and free from contamination. This attention to sanitation isn’t just about meeting health codes – it’s about guaranteeing that nothing interferes with the exceptional clarity that sets this ice apart.
Durability matches the impressive performance, with a substantial three-year parts and labor warranty on the ice maker, five-year coverage on the evaporator, and comprehensive compressor protection that reflects Manitowoc’s confidence in their engineering. The long-term reliability justifies the investment for establishments that understand how essential consistently flawless ice production is to their reputation for quality.
The elegant half-dice format offers the perfect balance of cooling power and liquid displacement, making it the industry standard for operations where presentation and performance must go hand in hand. No other machine delivers this level of clarity at the moment, and if you want the highest clarity for your ice cubes, simply get the Manitowoc UYF-0140A.
Related post: Best undercounter ice maker.
What is a clear ice maker?
Clear ice isn’t just prettier than regular ice – it actually performs better in drinks. It’s about 9% denser than cloudy ice, which means it melts much slower (up to 60% longer!) and won’t water down your drinks as quickly. This is especially important for good cocktails and premium spirits where you want to preserve the flavor.
Clear ice also doesn’t add any strange tastes to your drink like regular ice sometimes can. When you’re enjoying an expensive whiskey or a carefully crafted cocktail, you don’t want ice that adds unwanted flavors. The crystal-clear appearance also makes drinks look more impressive, especially in clear glasses where the ice becomes part of the presentation.
How clear ice makers work?
Most clear ice makers use one of two main methods to create clear ice: directional freezing or advanced filtration.
Directional freezing is the best approach for truly clear ice. Instead of freezing water from all directions like a regular freezer, these machines freeze water from one direction (usually bottom to top). This pushes all the air bubbles and impurities to one end, which either gets discarded or separated from the clear portion.
Commercial machines often use a different technique where water flows over cold metal plates, creating sheets of clear ice that break into pieces during the harvest cycle. This creates beautiful clear ice in different shapes like crescents, cubes, or specialty forms.
Many clear ice makers also include good water filters to remove particles and minerals before freezing, and they carefully control the temperature to create the perfect freezing conditions for clear ice.
Clear ice vs cloudy ice
The difference between clear and cloudy ice goes beyond just looks. Clear ice has a completely different structure and performs differently in drinks.
Clear ice is beautifully transparent while cloudy ice has that typical white, opaque appearance. This visual difference makes drinks with clear ice look more elegant and professional.
Because clear ice is denser, it melts 40-60% slower than regular ice. This means your drinks stay cold longer without getting watered down – perfect for sipping good spirits slowly.
Clear ice also melts more evenly and predictably, which lets bartenders account for dilution when creating cocktail recipes. Regular ice melts unevenly, making it harder to predict how a drink will taste over time.
Perhaps most importantly for flavor enthusiasts, quality clear ice adds almost no taste to your drinks. Regular ice often contains trapped impurities that can affect the taste of delicate spirits.
While regular ice works fine for everyday drinks, clear ice is worth the extra effort when you’re serving premium spirits or cocktails where presentation and flavor preservation really matter.
Final thoughts: Who needs a clear ice maker?
Clear ice makers represent a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about beverage quality and presentation. For luxury homes and bars, the best clear ice maker completes a sophisticated beverage with the same attention to detail given to premium spirits and glassware. While certainly not essential for casual drinking, a clear ice maker delivers genuine enhancement to beverage experiences that transcends novelty, making it a luxury for anyone who considers quality ice the foundation of memorable drinks.
