Oster OSIM22SV Countertop Ice Maker
Available at Amazon
Portable ice makers are small counter-top devices that can make lots of ice quickly. There are many different models to choose from, with prices ranging from $200 to $500, depending on the features and durability of the device.
This website reviews top portable ice makers to help you make the best choice. Read on for reviews, usage tips and buying tips.
Why Would You Get a Portable Ice Maker?
Portable ice makers are used to make ice for people who use it a lot. So if you’re always hosting parties or going to BBQs, you can use one of these machines to make ice for all your guests and their drinks. The best features of a portable ice maker are that it’s small and that’s it’s easy to set up and it can still make enough ice for many people.
A portable ice maker is good purchase for you if you:
- Make lots of ice – for example, more than your fridge can make
- Need ice in a odd location – like while camping, in an RV, on the beach etc
- Want to save space – instead of getting an installed ice maker
- Want to save installation time – portable ice makers do not need installation unlike built-in ice makers
Where Could You Use a Portable Ice Maker?
These can be used pretty much anywhere you can find an outlet. They are popular in hotter states where ice is more in demand. You can definitely use them for the following purposes:
- Parties at home
- In your RV
- At the office
- Boats
- While camping and at the beach
Are Portable Ice Makers Heavy and Bulky?
The genius of portable ice makers is that they tend to be light and easily portable. Their weight generally ranges from about 24lbs up to about 40lbs. Obviously, if you’re just going to put one on your countertop, it doesn’t really matter how heavy it is, as long as it fits your countertop in terms of size and style. However, if you’re going to be moving the portable ice maker you’ll want it to be lighter.
How Long Does It Take to Make Ice with a Portable Ice Maker?
Generally, portable ice makers will make the first batch of ice in under 12 minutes. The faster models will do it in under 7 minutes. Portable ice makers can make about 1-2lbs of ice in one hour, depending on your model.
What to Look for in a Portable Ice Maker
When buying an ice maker, consider the following things:
- Will you be carrying it around? If so, buy a smaller, lighter and cheaper model. Also, try to get one with an insulated box so the ice keeps for a longer period of time.
- Will you be putting it in one place? If so, consider the following:
- Design – whether you like the style of not and if it matches your décor
- Size – does it fit in your space
- How fast do you need the ice? Consider the machine’s speed – will it make the ice fast enough for you?
- Do you need a timer? If you know when you make ice, consider getting a machine with a timer.
- Do you need a device that will fetch water automatically? You’d need this if you were hosting a party, for example, and didn’t want to continually fill up the water reservoir. If so, consider getting this feature.
Ice Making Tips
- 1. Take the ice out as soon as it’s done, if you want to freeze the cubes to use for later! Otherwise, they may become stuck.
- 2. Some people don’t like the taste of ice made by ice machines. What to do?
- 1. First, make sure you followed the pre-cleaning directions. This should solve the problem immediately.
- 2. If you still don’t like the taste, get a water filter or use your favorite bottled water to make the ice.
- 3. Otherwise, consider using some juice (say lemon juice or another citrus juice) along with water to make the ice
The Top Selling Portable Ice Makers
These are the top 4 selling portable ice makers. They are well-rated by customers and offer a range of devices – more portable ones and those you would place in your kitchen (that also happen to look better). Here they are:
- Very portable
- On the cheaper end of the price scale
- Well-rated by customers
- Ice melts faster than usual – transfer to a freezer right away
- Very portable: light, doesn’t need a drain
- One of the cheaper portable ice makers out there
- Ice will generally come out wet
- Beautiful design
- Can produce lots of ice and is very fast
- Heavier than other models – more suited for staying in one place
- Beautiful design
- Can produce lots of ice and is very fast
- Features many great functions: a timer, self-cleaner
- Vey durable
- Heavier than other models – more suited for staying in one place
Oster OSIM22SV Countertop Ice Maker
Click for a full review of Oster OSIM22SV Countertop Ice Maker.
Koldfront Portable Countertop Ice Maker
Whynter T-2MA SNO Portable Ice Maker
NewAir AI-210SS Portable Ice Maker
Some Extras to Get with Your Portable Ice Maker
Ice Scoop
Ice Holder
Ice Tongs
Ziplock Bags to Store the Ice
