The best undercounter ice maker is a game changer if you’re tired of refilling ice trays or buying bags of ice from the store. These built-in machines produce crystal-clear ice that melts slowly, preserving your drink’s flavor instead of watering it down like those cloudy cubes from your fridge.
What really matters in an undercounter ice maker isn’t the fancy exterior – it’s the quality components inside. A solid compressor and well-designed water system mean the difference between a machine that runs for 10+ years versus a cheap countertop ice maker that quits after 18 months. I know you still can find the best countertop ice maker following my guide, but I must be honest, no countertop ice maker can compare with an undercounter machine’s durability in the same price.
These machines fit perfectly under your counter, hence their names, blending seamlessly with your kitchen, usually have front-venting design. That’s why an undercounter ice maker is ready to outlast your common refrigerator – which is supposed to last 10 years. Impressive, isn’t it?
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 undercounter ice maker comparison table: My top picks at a glance
For those who prefer a quick overview, I’ve used AI to create this comparison table of the bét undercounter ice maker. It focuses on just what matters: price, storage capacity (because nothing kills customer satisfaction or ruins a dinner party faster than running out of ice), and ice type (because different ices are meant for different tastes). Found one that matches your needs? Click “Read more” to get the full breakdown.
| Model | Price | Ice Storage | Ice Type | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ | $2,830 | 22 lbs | Top Hat (Gourmet cubes) | Read more |
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Euhomy IM-02 | $399 | 33 lbs | Ice cubes | Read more |
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NewAir NCI080SS00 | $899 | 48.5 lbs | Clear cubes | Read more |
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Summit Appliance BIM44GADA | $1,750 | 25 lbs | Clear cubes | Read more |
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Scotsman UN1520A-1 | $4,066 | 57 lbs | Nugget ice | Read more |
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Scotsman UF0915A-1 | $2,499 | 36 lbs | Flake ice | Read more |
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Ice-O-Matic UCG130A | $2,699 | 25 lbs | Gourmet cubes | Read more |
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Ice-O-Matic ICEU220FA | $3,600 | 70 lbs | Full cubes | Read more |
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Scotsman UC2024SA-1 | $3,050 | 80 lbs | Small cubes | Read more |
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Manitowoc UYF-0140A | $2,899 | 90 lbs | Half-dice cubes | Read more |
Best undercounter ice maker in 2025
My Pick
The Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ is still my pick as the best undercounter ice maker on the market, even when the difference on the high-end segment is as thin as hair’s width. This Japanese-engineered unit isn’t just another ice maker appliance – it’s the difference between ordinary drinks and memorable ones.
The magic happens in the crystal-clear top-hat ice cubes. Unlike the typical cloudy ice from your fridge, these transparent beauties melt slowly, keeping your whiskey chilled without watering it down too quickly. But I know my readers already knew this fact, and yes, the ice from the Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ is the luxury bar’s standard.
However, for a Hoshizaki ice maker, the life-time durability is what buyers expect. I find not one, but many Hoshizaki AM-50BAJs that last through decades of running in a business, where it is meant to continuously run day-after-day with high capacity. Durability is actually the strength of the Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ.
The Japanese heritage of Hoshizaki shows in the thoughtful details – from the way the machine flushes itself during cycles to prevent mineral buildup, to how easy they’ve made it to access components for cleaning. If I can choose, I will choose the Hoshizaki ice maker as the best I want to service.
For homeowners, you may ask, “Is it really worth the price?” My answer is simple: it depends on how much you value quality ice. If you’re serious about your cocktails or host parties regularly, you’ll notice the difference immediately. And ice makers typically are quiet, saving for when it drops ices, but nothing annoying.
Sure, you could spend less on a Chinese brand, but you’ll likely end up replacing it while the Hoshizaki keeps running year after year. It’s like choosing between a disposable camera and a professional one – both take pictures, but the results are nowhere comparable.
Related post: Best ice maker 2025.
Under $2000
Best budget undercounter ice maker
The Euhomy IM-02 delivers impressive performance at roughly a quarter of what you’d pay for premium models. At around $500, this budget-friendly machine challenges the idea that you need to invest four figures for an undercounter ice maker.
For many homeowners, the Euhomy IM-02 can quietly produces enough ice for daily family use and even weekend gatherings alike. The machine stands neatly into any kitchen undercounter, offering that built-in stainless-steel look without the luxury price tag. As an ice maker technician who’s skeptical to Euhomy’s quality, I am surprised by this ice maker’s consistent output and reliability.
Make no mistake – this budget undercounter ice maker won’t match the decade-plus lifespan of high-end models from brands like Hoshizaki or Scotsman. It might requires more frequent maintenance needs, mostly because it will sacrifice the system to minimize mineral buildup from hard water. But for many people, these trade-offs make perfect sense given the dramatic price difference.
As a Chinese brand that sells only ice makers on Amazon, I heard good things from Euhomy. The brand seems to stay its business in the U.S for a long time, unlike a lot of other Chinese brands that you may find today, then disappear tomorrow. You’re buying a $500 undercounter ice maker, and a service from an ice maker technician like me should be the last thing you want to do.
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Best $1000 undercounter ice maker
Doubling your budget from $500 to $1000 for an undercounter ice maker might seem like a big jump, but the NewAir NCI080SS00 makes sure it’s worth the money. The most noticeable difference is the crystal-clear ice cubes – not the cloudy, rapidly-melting variety found in budget models.
This clear ice production sets the NewAir apart in its price range. NewAir has made clear ices even in their low-range countertop ice makers, and I’m surprised at how this Chinese ice maker brand can deliver such high clarity which you can’t find in common names like Frigidaire or Igloo.
Besides, the NewAir NCI080SS00 has a stainless-steel body, and a type 403 no less, so it has high wear and impact resistance than most budget countertop ice makers that’re advertised using stainless-steel, but only 430 type which is cheaper. You can think of the NewAir NCI080SS00 is the starting point to have an actual durable ice maker. For anyone who’s looking to buy the first undercounter ice maker, the NewAir NCI080SS00 should be seriously considered.
However, it’s quite absurd to buy a $1000 ice maker with only 1-year warranty. Luckily, if you buy this ice maker on Amazon, you can always go with an additional protection plan. It’s costly, but it is far better than most warranties out there. With such things in mind, even small business owners can find it suitable to get this NewAir NCI080SS00 for moderate-volume needs.
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Best $1500 undercounter ice maker
At $1500, the Summit Appliance BIM44GADA is the perfect investment for serious bar owners and even homeowners who are looking for the starter of commercial-grade quality. This machine produces crystal-clear large ice cubes – the most popular ice types in bars and pubs, according to statistics.
The large, clear cubes are the secret weapon in the beverage business. They melt slowly, preserving drink flavors while lasting longer in glasses – exactly what busy bars and restaurants need. It is not unique as the gourmet ice (top-hat or crescent gourmet ices), but by producing large ice cubes, the undercounter ice maker tends to have better durability, which is something you seriously want to consider.
Paying $500 more than the NewAir NCI080SS00 has some commercial advantages. The Summit Appliance BIM44GADA has an Energy Star certification for energy saving, which means reducing operating costs in high-volume settings. The 5-year compressor warranty (parts-only, but still longer coverage than most) shows Summit’s confidence in the core of the ice maker.
The built-in pump system is also something that you should care, which is more versatile than common gravity drains – a lifesaver in older buildings or tight bar layouts, as it allows draining waste water anywhere. As the Summit Appliance BIM44GADA doesn’t have such a smart construction like high-end brands like Hoshizaki and Scotsman, it has a simple defrost feature, which is valuable.
It is a price jump for most homeowners, and if they can afford such a large sum of money, normally I will advise them to check these below candidates, as they’re all top-of-the-line undercounter ice makers.
Related post: Best commercial ice maker.
Under $2000
Best nugget undercounter ice maker
The Scotsman UN1520A-1 represents the pinnacle of nugget ice production, commanding around $4000-5000 because it transforms ordinary ice into “Original Chewable Ice” that satisfies both luxury homeowners and business owners who demand the best.
Nugget ice enthusiasts know the difference the Scotsman UN1520A-1 makes. This commercial machine creates the iconic chewable ice found in Sonic Drive-Ins and fancy restaurants. Families paying this much want the real deal – ice that actually absorbs your drink’s flavor, has that perfect chew, and melts just right whether you’re sipping cocktails or kids are drinking sodas.
Healthcare businesses specially choose Scotsman nugget ices for their patients. The soft, chewable texture makes nugget ice ideal for post-surgical care, dental offices, and public communities. Nugget ice is perfect for the elderlies and patients who find difficulty chewing.
Restaurant and bar owners who need the huge daily production of the Scotsman UN1520A-1 will be pleased by the Energy Star certification. The Scotsman UN1520A-1 is perhaps the best energy-saving ice maker in the world, using very least of energy and water to produce 100lbs of ices. It isn’t just an investment for decades, it’s also an economical choice.
Related post: Best nugget ice maker.
Best flake undercounter ice maker
The Scotsman UF0915A-1 is the gold standard for commercial flake undercounter ice maker, particularly for businesses that demand reliability and continuous output. Starting around $3,400, this ice maker delivers soft, moldable flake ice essential for food service, healthcare, and retail operations.
Flake ice dominates other ice types in many situations where consistent temperature control really matters. Seafood markets rely on the Scotsman UF0915A-1 to keep inventory fresh for days, not hours. Restaurant owners need their salad bars and buffet displays stay perfectly chilled with flake ice that molds around containers.
Just like other high-end Scotsman undercounter ice maker, the Scotsman UF0915A-1 has a robust and durable build that tends to last decades, an Energy Star rating for being energy-efficient, and good overall ice quality. Not many high-end brands are specializing in making flake ices, but not Scotsman.
Scotsman’s dominance in the flake ice market stems from the brand’s engineering expertise since 1952. The Scotsman UF0915A-1 is the most trusted in its lineup, thus being the best flake undercounter ice maker in my list.
An alternative to the best undercounter ice maker
The Ice-O-Matic UCG130A deserves your attention as an alternative when shopping for the best undercounter gourmet ice maker. Starting around $2,730, this machine offers compelling advantages over the Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ’s top hat cubes by producing cylindrical gourmet ice – a different elegant shape that many beverage professionals will love.
The machine’s gourmet cylindrical ice cubes are crystal clear, look great in beverages, and resist melting longer. Clear ice cubes from Ice-O-Matic is always considered as the highest clarity among all high-end undercounter ice makers, and the Ice-O-Matic UCG130A isn’t an exception. Some bartenders prefer the cylindrical shape over top hat cubes for certain cocktail presentations.
Ice-O-Matic’s brand reputation stands strong alongside Hoshizaki – both companies have supplied commercial ice makers globally for decades. The Ice-O-Matic UCG130A produces 121 pounds daily compared to the Hoshizaki’s 51 pounds, making it better suited for businesses with higher volume needs.
To compensate for the higher daily production capacity and robust construction, the Ice-O-Matic UCG130A usually costs higher. That’s why the Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ remains my top choice for gourmet ice, and the best undercounter ice maker. Its top hat ices are more favorable in bars, and the melt rate is far longer. For the servicing, the Ice-O-Matic UCG130A is really good with part access, but still not as extraordinary as the Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ.
Best undercounter large ice maker
With how the Ice-O-Matic UCG130A has a spot for being perfectly clear, the Ice-O-Matic ICEU220FA is exactly the benchmark for premium clear large ice production. From this undercounter ice maker, we will have the crystal-clear ice that defines excellence in high-end businesses. Starting around $2,000, this Ice-O-Matic ICEU220FA produces transparent ice cubes that far surpass anything like the Summit Appliance BIM44GADA can achieve.
It’s the fresh, crystal-clear ice that tumbles into glasses at restaurants, bars and clubs around the world, cooling the drink while preserving the flavor. The Ice-O-Matic ICEU220FA’s large ice cubes has exceptional clarity that destroys anything cheaper, even rival the Manitowoc UYF-0140A that I’m about to write. And it can make 238 pounds of perfect ice every 24 hours.
Large-size ice cubes remain the commercial standard because they melt slower, preserve drink integrity longer, and look stunning in premium beverages. Because of its qualities, large-size ice cubes are the most popular in commercial ice makers, as it helps greatly in keeping the ice makers last longer. If you don’t want something unique like the top-hat ice cubes, among the common ice cubes, I can’t think of others than the Ice-O-Matic ICEU220FA.
Like I said earlier, the Ice-O-Matic ICEU220FA is mainly for high-volume ice production, with its huge daily production. It isn’t an ice maker that’s meant for homeowners, unless you’re having a clan under the roof that constantly need more ice.
Best undercounter small clear ice maker
The Scotsman UC2024SA-1 is a rare premium small-cube specialist in an industry dominated by large ice makers, gathering attention around $2,700 for its unique capabilities. Unlike standard commercial units that default to full-size cubes, this machine produces small-size ice cubes – a deliberate choice that delivers surprising benefits.
Perfect for iced lattes, juice bars, and smoothie shops, small cubes melt faster and blend more easily than their larger counterparts. If you just want your drinks cooling as quick as possible, small-size ice cubes seem to be the great choice, being only behind the nugget ice. Small ice cubes also pack tighter in dispensers and allow faster turnover in high-volume settings.
Scotsman’s commercial engineering ensures decades of reliable operation, with robust construction that justifies the premium price. The machine’s 227-pound daily capacity and 80-pound storage satisfy even busy businesses while maintaining the brand’s legendary durability.
Again, with such high daily production, there aren’t many homeowners who will get this Scotsman UC2024SA-1. People just want ice that melt quicker simply just look for a countertop ice maker, which is much quicker to make small-size ices, and far cheaper than the Scotsman ice maker.
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Best undercounter clear ice maker
The Manitowoc UYF-0140A stands as the definitive clear ice champion, producing half-dice cubes with transparency that surpasses even the Ice-O-Matic ICEU220FA. Starting around $2,800, this machine delivers crystal-clear half-dice cubes that literally shimmer with clarity, setting a new standard for what undercounter clear ice could be.
The half-dice size combines the best of both worlds – providing adequate size for slow melting while offering superior beverage visual presentation. Each cube emerges with gem-like transparency that makes the Ice-O-Matic’s already impressive clarity a bit less clear by comparison.
Manitowoc has a history dating back to 1964 and has established itself as a leading supplier of ice machines, earning recognition as America’s #1 selling brand of ice makers through decades of proven performance. The brand’s global reputation rests on dedication to product innovation, quality, and reliability, making their ice makers the best choices worldwide.
Business owners value Manitowoc’s legendary durability and Energy Star efficiency that dramatically reduces operating costs. As the native high-end American ice maker brand, warranty policy of Manitowoc is often considered the best. For homeowners, the Manitowoc UYF-0140A is a great undercounter ice maker – something that’s worth considering as an alternative to the Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ, whichever has better deal.
Related post: Best clear ice maker.
What to look for in the best undercounter ice maker?
Ice type: cube, gourmet, or nugget
The type of ice your machine makes affects everything from drink quality to how much energy it uses – not just how it looks.
Cubed Ice (full, half, or crescent) is the traditional option most people know:
- Melts slowly since it has less surface area
- Gets super clear when made properly
- Perfect for cocktails where you don’t want too much watering down
- Uses a normal amount of energy
- Weighs about 56-58 pounds per cubic foot
Gourmet Clear Ice is in its own league, even though it looks similar to regular cubes:
- Made with special freezing that pushes out all the air bubbles
- Completely clear with no cloudiness
- Heaviest type at 62 pounds per cubic foot
- Melts the slowest of any ice
- Great for fancy cocktails and whiskey
- Takes about 15-20% longer to make than regular cubes
Nugget Ice (also called pearl, chewable, or sonic ice) is totally different:
- Made from compressed ice flakes
- Soft and chewable – people love it
- Cools drinks fast because it has lots of surface area
- Melts the fastest of all ice types
- Makes ice quickly
- Lighter at 40-45 pounds per cubic foot
- Perfect for soft drinks, iced coffee, and smoothies
Pick based on what you’ll actually use it for. If you mostly make cocktails, go with clear cubes. If you drink lots of sodas or iced coffee, nugget ice might be better despite melting faster.
Installation requirements
Setting up an undercounter ice maker right is crucial – don’t overlook these details or you’ll regret it later.
Ventilation is probably the most important thing people forget:
- Need at least 1/4″ space above for the door to open
- Front-breathing models don’t need side space (though 1/4″ helps with installation)
- Need 1″ in the back for hoses and cables
- Don’t block the front ventilation – no toe-kick modifications
Electrical needs are straightforward:
- Dedicated 15-amp circuit (20-amp for bigger units)
- Grounded outlet within 6 feet
- Surge protector recommended
- UL listed for indoors; UL-outdoor rated if going outside
Water Supply requirements:
- 1/4″ copper water line (PEX okay in some areas)
- 20-80 psi water pressure
- Water temperature 40°F-90°F (colder = better efficiency)
- Shutoff valve within 6 feet
- Water filter highly recommended
Drainage has three options:
- Gravity drain with 1/2″ line and 1/4″ per foot slope
- Built-in drain pump (about 40% of models have this)
- Add-on pump for tricky installations
Space considerations:
- Width options: 15″, 18″, or 24″ (15″ is most common for homes)
- Height: 32″-34.5″ to fit standard cabinets
- Depth: 24″ plus 1-2″ for connections
- Door needs 24″-26″ to swing open
- Weight: 70-120 pounds empty, 90-160 pounds when full
Get professional installation if you can – most problems come from improper connections.
Build quality and material
The materials and construction determine how long your ice maker lasts and how well it performs.
Exterior options:
- Full stainless (best for durability)
- Stainless front with plastic sides (common mid-range)
- Powder-coated metal (budget option)
- Panel-ready for custom cabinet fronts
Good commercial units use thick 304 stainless steel. Residential models often use thinner material that looks similar but dents easier.
Interior parts show the biggest quality differences:
- Evaporator (nickel-plated copper vs. stainless vs. aluminum)
- Water system (plastic vs. silicone vs. stainless)
- Ice bin (plastic vs. ABS vs. stainless)
- Door seals (rubber vs. silicone vs. magnetic)
Compressor determines reliability:
- Rotary (budget) – lasts 3-5 years
- Reciprocating (mid-range) – lasts 5-7 years
- Scroll (premium) – lasts 10+ years
Insulation varies widely:
- Foam thickness: 1″-2.5″
- Vapor barrier to prevent humidity issues
- Design prevents condensation on outside
Serviceability affects lifetime costs:
- Removable panels vs. needing full disassembly
- Parts you can replace vs. sealed systems
- Basic lights vs. error codes vs. digital diagnostics
Filtration ranges from basic to advanced:
- Basic particle filter
- Dual-stage (particles and chlorine)
- Full multi-stage system
Test the door, check gaps between panels, and feel how solid the controls are – these give you the real quality picture beyond specs.
Final thoughts: Who should invest in an undercounter ice maker?
After reviewing dozens of models, these machines make sense for three groups: people who entertain often and need reliable ice, big families tired of running out of freezer ice, and businesses where drink quality matters.
Prices range from $400 to $4,000, but the reliability, better ice quality, and convenience pay off if you use ice daily. If you’ve ever had to run to the store for bags of ice or been disappointed by cloudy freezer cubes, an undercounter unit might be worth it.
I made a list of the best commercial ice maker, but the list is strictly for both countertop and undercounter ice makers, providing as they’re made for business. My list of best undercounter ice maker in 2025 is more suitable for home and business owners alike, picking only the ice machines under counter.
