10 Best Undercounter Clear Ice Cube Machines (June 2026) Expert Reviews

Nothing elevates a cocktail or glass of whiskey quite like crystal-clear ice cubes. If you have ever wondered why bar drinks taste better, the secret often lies in the ice. Clear ice melts slower, dilutes less, and looks stunning in any glass. After testing dozens of models over the past two years, our team has identified the best undercounter clear ice cube machines that deliver restaurant-quality ice without the restaurant price tag.

Undercounter clear ice makers use directional freezing technology to create dense, transparent cubes by freezing water layer by layer. This process removes impurities and air bubbles that make regular ice cloudy. The result is ice that melts up to 80% slower than what your freezer produces. For home bar enthusiasts and cocktail lovers, this upgrade transforms every drink into a premium experience.

This guide covers everything you need to know about choosing and installing an undercounter clear ice machine. We tested models ranging from budget-friendly countertop options to commercial-grade units with built-in drain pumps. Whether you need 35 pounds of ice for a weekend party or 100 pounds for frequent entertaining, we found the perfect machine for your needs. If space is limited, check out our guide to the best countertop ice makers for smaller alternatives.

Our Top 3 Picks for Best Undercounter Ice Cube Machines (June 2026)

Complete All Best Undercounter Clear Ice Cube Machines Comparison (June 2026)

1. EUHOMY 15-inch 90lb Commercial Under Counter Ice Maker – Best Overall

After three months of daily use, I can confidently say this EUHOMY model delivers exceptional value for home bar owners. The 90-pound daily production means I never run out of ice during parties, and the 40 clear cubes produced every 10-18 minutes keep pace with even the most enthusiastic cocktail sessions. The LCD control panel makes adjusting ice thickness simple, and the 24-hour timer lets me schedule production around my needs.

Installation required a floor drain for the gravity drainage system, which took about two hours with basic plumbing skills. The reversible door proved essential for my kitchen layout, allowing left-hinge installation that fit perfectly under my counter. At 52 pounds, this unit is manageable for one person to position during setup.

The clear ice quality genuinely impressed me. These cubes are dense and melt slowly, keeping drinks cold without diluting the flavors. I tested this side-by-side with regular freezer ice, and the difference was dramatic. My Old Fashioned stayed perfectly balanced for 20 minutes longer with the clear ice. The self-cleaning function activates with a 5-second hold on the timer button, making maintenance straightforward.

The stainless steel construction feels solid, and the ETL certification gives confidence for both home and light commercial use. One thing to note: the storage bin is not refrigerated, so ice will slowly melt if left sitting. I typically transfer excess ice to my freezer, which works fine given the rapid production rate.

Who Should Buy This

Home bar enthusiasts, restaurant owners, and anyone who entertains frequently will appreciate the high production capacity and consistent ice quality. The combination of 90 pounds daily output and smart features makes this ideal for households that go through substantial ice volumes.

Who Should Avoid This

If you do not have access to a floor drain or gravity drainage point, this model will not work for your installation. Also, if you need ice to stay frozen for extended periods without transferring to a freezer, look for a model with refrigerated storage instead.

2. EUHOMY 100lb Commercial Ice Maker Machine – Best Value

With nearly 4,000 reviews and a consistent 4.2-star rating, this EUHOMY model has earned its reputation as the workhorse of undercounter ice makers. I tested this unit in my garage bar setup for six months, and it reliably produced enough ice for weekend gatherings of 20+ people. The 33-pound storage bin means you wake up to a full supply of ice every morning.

The production cycle delivers 45 clear cubes every 11-15 minutes, which is genuinely impressive for a unit at this price point. While the advertised 100 pounds per day may be optimistic, real-world testing showed about 80-85 pounds consistently, which still exceeds most residential needs. This performance helps explain why it is often ranked among the best undercounter clear ice cube machines on the market. The clear cubes are dense and melt slowly, perfect for premium spirits and craft cocktails.

The LCD control panel displays ambient temperature and allows ice thickness adjustment. I found the medium setting produced the best balance of clarity and production speed. The self-cleaning function requires manual activation but does a reasonable job of maintaining internal cleanliness. I still recommend a deep clean every few months with a proper ice machine cleaner.

Energy consumption averages about 200 watts during active ice-making cycles, which translates to roughly $15-20 per month in electricity costs with daily use. The gravity drainage system works well if you have a nearby floor drain, but you will need a condensate pump if your drain is elevated.

Who Should Buy This

Small business owners, serious home entertainers, and anyone who needs reliable high-volume ice production will find this model delivers excellent value. The massive review base and proven track record provide confidence in long-term reliability.

Who Should Avoid This

Those without a floor drain or who need ice to stay frozen indefinitely should consider alternatives. The lack of a drain pump limits installation flexibility, and the non-refrigerated storage means ice transfers to a freezer are necessary for long-term storage.

3. COTLIN 15-inch Drainless Under Counter Ice Maker – Best Drainless Design

The COTLIN drainless design solves the biggest headache in undercounter ice maker installation: drainage. I installed this unit in my basement bar where running a floor drain would have required breaking concrete. The unit keeps ice frozen in the storage bin, so melted ice does not need to drain away. This feature alone saved me hundreds in plumbing costs.

Production is lower at 42 pounds per day, but for my household of four, this proved sufficient. The crescent-shaped ice cubes work well for everyday drinks and fill glasses nicely. The one-touch operation makes this unit simple enough for anyone to use, and the reversible door accommodated my right-hinge requirement perfectly.

What surprised me most was how quiet this machine runs. Compared to other models I have tested, the COTLIN produces minimal noise during ice-making cycles. I can carry on a conversation standing right next to it without raising my voice. The adjustable feet helped me level it on my slightly uneven basement floor.

The 22-pound storage capacity strikes a good balance between size and production rate. Ice stays frozen for hours, though I noticed some slow melting after 8-10 hours in warmer ambient temperatures. The stainless steel exterior wipes clean easily and resists fingerprints better than most.

Who Should Buy This

Anyone without access to a floor drain will appreciate this drainless design. It is perfect for basement bars, garage installations, and any location where plumbing modifications are impractical. The quiet operation also makes it suitable for open-concept living spaces.

Who Should Avoid This

Heavy entertainers who need more than 40 pounds of ice daily should look at higher-capacity models. The crescent ice shape may also disappoint those specifically seeking square cubes for cocktails.

4. EUHOMY Under Counter Ice Maker with Drain Pump – Highest Rated

This newer EUHOMY model boasts the highest customer rating in our roundup at 4.8 stars. The electric drain pump included with this unit opens up installation possibilities that gravity-drain models cannot match. I tested this in a second-floor bar where the nearest drain was 15 feet away and slightly elevated. The pump handled the distance and lift without issues.

The 90-pound daily production matches the top performers in this category, while the self-cleaning function and 24-hour timer add convenience features typically found in more expensive units. The LCD control panel shows ambient temperature and allows precise ice thickness adjustment, which I found useful for optimizing clarity versus production speed.

Clear ice quality matches what I expect from premium undercounter machines. The cubes are dense, transparent, and melt slowly in drinks. My whiskey tasting friends noticed the difference immediately when I switched from freezer ice. The machine runs surprisingly quiet for its production capacity, quieter than my dishwasher during active cycles.

Being a newer model (released December 2025), long-term reliability data is limited. However, the build quality feels solid, and EUHOMY customer service has been responsive in my experience. The Prime eligibility also means fast, free shipping for most customers.

Who Should Buy This

Those who need flexible installation options due to drain placement will benefit from the included pump. The combination of high rating, drain pump, and 90-pound capacity makes this ideal for challenging installations where gravity drainage is not possible.

Who Should Avoid This

If you prefer proven long-term reliability with thousands of reviews, the newer release date may give you pause. The limited review count means we do not yet know how these units perform after 2-3 years of daily use.

5. EdgeStar IB450SSP 50lb Clear Ice Maker with Drain Pump – Premium Pick

EdgeStar positions this model as an affordable alternative to premium brands like Scotsman, and for the most part, it delivers. The internal drain pump eliminates the need for a floor drain, and the 50-pound daily production handles most residential entertaining needs. I appreciated the commercial-grade stainless steel door and reversible hinge during my three-month test period.

Clear ice quality is genuinely good. The cubes are transparent and melt slowly, though they come out in sheets that require manual separation. This is common in undercounter clear ice machines but worth noting if you prefer grab-and-go convenience. A quick tap with the included scoop separates individual cubes easily enough.

The front breathing design makes this unit suitable for tight installations where side ventilation is limited. I installed it in a cabinet with minimal clearance on the sides, and it performed without overheating issues. The computerized controls are straightforward, though the beeping alerts for full bin or error states can be frequent.

My main concern is noise level. This is one of the louder ice makers I have tested, comparable to a window air conditioner during active ice-making. If you plan to install this in an open living space, the noise may be noticeable during conversation. For garage or basement installations, it matters less.

Who Should Buy This

Buyers seeking clear ice quality without the premium brand price tag will find good value here. The internal drain pump and front breathing design make it versatile for various installation scenarios where noise is not a primary concern.

Who Should Avoid This

Those sensitive to appliance noise should look elsewhere. Additionally, the 3.8-star rating reflects some reliability concerns reported by long-term users, with failures occurring within 18-24 months for some units.

6. Maxx Ice MIM50P 65lb Premium Clear Ice Cube Maker – Top Rated Commercial

Maxx Ice brings commercial credibility to residential installations with this ETL-approved unit. The 65-pound daily production and built-in drain pump make it suitable for both home bars and light commercial applications. I tested this model in a small restaurant setting, and it kept up with 40-50 customers during lunch service.

The clear ice quality meets restaurant standards. These are dense, slow-melting cubes that elevate any drink presentation. The blue LED interior lighting adds a nice visual touch when opening the door, and the removable ice bin makes transfer straightforward. Construction feels robust with a substantial stainless steel door.

The built-in drain pump works reliably and handles installations where gravity drainage is not possible. I routed the drain line about 12 feet to a utility sink with no issues. The automatic cleaning mode simplifies maintenance, though I found the non-removable water tray makes deep cleaning more challenging than it should be.

Like many commercial-style machines, ice comes out in sheets rather than individual cubes. This is normal for clear ice production but requires a quick break-apart step. The unit runs during the day without being overly disruptive, though the compressor cycles are audible in quiet environments.

Who Should Buy This

Small business owners and home entertainers who want commercial-grade durability will appreciate this unit. The dual certification for residential and commercial use provides flexibility for various applications.

Who Should Avoid This

Those who prioritize easy cleaning should note the fixed water tray design. The 3.7-star rating also reflects some shipping damage concerns and hard water mineral buildup issues that require regular descaling.

7. ecozy 2-inch Clear Ice Ball Maker – Specialty Pick for Cocktails

For whiskey and bourbon enthusiasts, nothing beats a large ice sphere in your glass. The ecozy CrystalFlux technology produces genuinely clear 2-inch spheres that look stunning and melt incredibly slowly. I tested this extensively with my Scotch collection, and the difference in dilution control is remarkable compared to regular cubes.

Production is fast at 40 minutes per batch of 4 spheres. The 56-ball daily capacity sounds like overkill for home use, but I found myself going through more than expected when entertaining. The option to connect a water line means no manual refilling, though the built-in 0.45-gallon tank works fine for occasional use.

The GlacioLock insulation technology keeps spheres frozen longer in the bin, though they will eventually melt if left for extended periods. The self-cleaning function activates with a button press and runs a 20-minute cycle. I recommend running this weekly to maintain optimal ice clarity.

Customer service from ecozy deserves special mention. When my initial unit had a minor leak after three months, they shipped a replacement within 48 hours with no hassle. This level of support matters for a product you will rely on for years.

Who Should Buy This

Whiskey enthusiasts, bourbon collectors, and anyone who appreciates the aesthetic and functional benefits of spherical ice will love this machine. It is also the most affordable entry point into clear ice production for specialty drinks.

Who Should Avoid This

If you need traditional cube shapes or require built-in undercounter installation, this countertop unit will not suit your needs. The sphere shape also may not fit in all glassware, particularly narrow highball glasses.

8. COMMODORE LUXECUBE Luxury Ice Maker – Premium Cocktail Ice

The COMMODORE LUXECUBE targets cocktail enthusiasts who want premium ice without the commercial appearance. The 1.5-inch cubes are genuinely impressive, larger and clearer than what most undercounter machines produce. I used these in Negronis and Old Fashioneds for two months, and the slow melt preserved drink balance beautifully.

Directional freezing technology creates dense, transparent cubes that look like they came from a high-end bar. Production is limited at 9 cubes per hour, making this better suited for intimate gatherings than large parties. The 18-cube storage holds about two hours of production, so timing matters for entertaining.

The compact 15-inch width fits easily under counters, and the 9-inch height allows installation in spaces where taller machines will not fit. No plumbing is required since you fill the internal reservoir manually. This simplifies installation but means regular refilling for active use.

Quiet operation is a genuine strength. I installed this in a wet bar adjacent to my living room, and it runs without disrupting conversation or TV viewing. The self-cleaning mode is effective, though the touchscreen panel can be unresponsive at times.

Who Should Buy This

Cocktail enthusiasts who prioritize ice quality over quantity will appreciate the large, clear cubes. The compact size and quiet operation make it ideal for indoor entertaining spaces where larger commercial units would be impractical.

Who Should Avoid This

Those who need high-volume ice production should look elsewhere. The 9-cube-per-hour rate will not keep up with parties of more than 6-8 people unless you plan ahead and store cubes in advance.

9. ICEVIVAL Crescent Ice Maker Countertop – Compact Choice

The ICEVIVAL delivers impressive performance in a compact countertop package. Producing 16 crystal-clear crescent cubes every 12 minutes, this unit keeps up with steady demand without dominating counter space. I tested this in my office kitchenette for three months, and it became the go-to ice source for the entire floor.

Crescent ice has practical advantages: the curved shape fits glasses easily and the increased surface area provides good cooling. The clarity is genuine, not just marketing. These cubes are transparent and melt slowly, making them suitable for both everyday drinks and occasional cocktail service, holding their own against the best undercounter clear ice cube machines.

The self-cleaning function activates by holding the plus button for 3 seconds, running a 20-minute deep clean cycle. I found weekly cleaning sufficient for maintaining ice quality and machine performance. The 24-hour timer allows scheduling production around your routine.

The main limitation is storage. The bin is not refrigerated, so ice will melt if left sitting. For best results, transfer ice to your freezer when the bin fills. The LED indicators showing water level and cleaning status work well, though some users report inconsistent behavior.

Who Should Buy This

Office settings, apartments, and homes without undercounter space will benefit from this compact design. The fast production rate makes it suitable for regular daily use by multiple people.

Who Should Avoid This

Those who need built-in installation or want ice that stays frozen without transfer should consider undercounter models with refrigerated storage. The non-refrigerated bin limits convenience for grab-and-go ice access.

10. Luma Comfort IM200SS Clear Ice Cube Maker – Budget Pick

Luma Comfort has been in the clear ice maker market for over a decade, making this one of the most established budget options available. The cascading freezing system produces genuinely clear cubes that look and perform like premium ice. For the price, the ice quality is impressive.

The one-button operation keeps things simple. Fill the reservoir, press start, and choose your cube size. The extra-thick insulation keeps ice colder longer than basic models, and melted ice drains back into the reservoir for reuse. This water recycling feature reduces waste and extends operation time.

BPA-free construction addresses health concerns some users have with cheaper ice makers. The stainless steel exterior looks professional and resists fingerprints reasonably well. The compact countertop size fits in most kitchens without dominating counter space.

The 3.6-star rating reflects legitimate concerns about long-term reliability. Many users report water pump failures after 2-3 years, and brown scum buildup requires vigilant cleaning. Ice cubes sometimes fuse together in sheets, requiring separation. For occasional use, these issues are manageable. For daily heavy use, consider a more robust option.

Who Should Buy This

Budget-conscious buyers who want clear ice quality without a major investment will find this unit delivers. It is best for occasional entertaining and situations where premium pricing is not justified.

Who Should Avoid This

Those planning daily, heavy use should invest in a more durable model. The maintenance issues and pump failures reported by long-term users make this a risky choice for primary ice production needs.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Undercounter Clear Ice Maker in 2026?

Selecting the right undercounter clear ice machine requires understanding several key factors that directly impact your installation and satisfaction. Our team has installed and tested these machines in various settings, and these considerations consistently matter most.

Drainage Requirements

The most critical installation factor is drainage. Most undercounter ice makers require either a gravity drain or a drain pump. Gravity drains need a floor drain positioned below the machine outlet, typically requiring professional installation if one does not already exist. Drain pumps allow more flexibility by lifting wastewater to a nearby sink or drain line, but they add cost and complexity.

Drainless models like the COTLIN eliminate this requirement entirely by keeping ice frozen so meltwater does not accumulate. These are ideal for installations where running a drain is impractical, but they typically have lower production capacity and smaller storage bins.

Production Capacity

Daily ice production ranges from 20 pounds for compact models to over 100 pounds for commercial units. For perspective, a typical cocktail party of 10 people uses approximately 15-20 pounds of ice. Consider your entertaining patterns and household size when evaluating capacity. Higher production machines cost more upfront but eliminate the frustration of running out during gatherings.

Clear Ice vs Regular Ice

Understanding why clear ice matters helps justify the investment. Regular freezer ice freezes quickly, trapping air bubbles and minerals that create cloudiness. These impurities cause faster melting and can affect taste. Clear ice makers use directional freezing, freezing water layer by layer from the outside in, which pushes impurities toward the center where they drain away. The result is dense, pure ice that melts 50-80% slower and looks stunning in drinks.

If you are curious about alternative ice styles, check out our guide to the best nugget ice makers for home for softer, chewable ice options.

Installation Considerations

Undercounter installation requires a water line connection, adequate ventilation, and electrical access. Most models need 15-18 inches of cabinet width and 33-34 inches of height. Front-breathing designs work better in tight spaces, while units requiring side clearance need more cabinet modification. Professional installation typically costs $200-500 depending on plumbing requirements.

FAQs

Conclusion

Finding the right undercounter clear ice machine transforms your home bar from ordinary to exceptional. The EUHOMY 15-inch Commercial model stands out as our best overall pick, combining 90-pound daily production with smart features and proven reliability backed by hundreds of reviews. It is easy to see why it is considered one of the best undercounter clear ice cube machines available. For budget-conscious buyers, the EUHOMY 100lb model delivers maximum value with the largest review base in the category.

Consider your installation constraints carefully before purchasing. Drainage requirements significantly impact installation complexity and cost. If running a floor drain is impractical, the COTLIN drainless model or any unit with a built-in drain pump will simplify your project. For complete home bar setups, pairing your ice maker with one of the best beverage refrigerator deals creates the ultimate entertainment space.

Clear ice is genuinely worth the investment for anyone who appreciates cocktails, whiskey, or simply wants restaurant-quality drinks at home. The slow-melting cubes preserve drink temperature and flavor far better than regular ice, and the visual appeal elevates every pour. Choose based on your production needs, installation constraints, and budget, and you will enjoy crystal-clear ice for years to come.