A self-cleaning portable ice maker can make it easier to keep cold drinks on hand without installing a built-in ice machine. The best choice depends on the ice you like, how much you need, and where you plan to use it. These five countertop models include fast-making bullet-ice machines and a nugget-ice option, with features such as one-touch cleaning, carry handles, and selectable ice sizes.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Ice type | Stated daily output | Standout feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker | Bullet ice, two sizes | Up to 26 lb | One-touch cleaning and stated 45 dB operation |
| Silonn Portable Ice Maker | Bullet ice, two sizes | Up to 26 lb | Carry handle and compact footprint |
| SenCre Countertop Ice Maker | Bullet ice, two sizes | Up to 26.5 lb | 1.5 L water tank |
| Antarctic Star Portable Ice Maker | Bullet ice, two sizes | Up to 26 lb | Carry handle and automatic cleaning cycle |
| EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker | Nugget ice | Up to 40 lb | Soft, chewable ice and fast production |
Our Picks: Best Self Cleaning Portable Ice Maker reviews
1. EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker: A Quiet Bullet-Ice Option
This EUHOMY countertop machine makes nine bullet-shaped cubes in as little as six minutes, with a stated daily output of up to 26 pounds. It offers small and large ice sizes, so you can choose smaller cubes for quick chilling or larger ones for everyday drinks.
The listed 45 dB operating noise level may appeal if you plan to run an ice maker in a kitchen, office, or RV. Its compact design is also intended for countertops and other small spaces. A one-touch self-cleaning function reduces the need to scrub the interior by hand, though it does not remove the need for regular care.
This is a good fit if you want a straightforward bullet-ice machine with a quiet-operation specification and simple controls. Compared with the Silonn, it has no listed carry handle or stated basket capacity. If portability is your priority, the Silonn’s handle and published weight make it easier to assess for moving between rooms.
Pros:
- Makes nine cubes in as little as six minutes
- Offers two bullet-ice sizes
- One-touch self-cleaning function
- Stated 45 dB operation
Cons:
- No basket capacity is listed in the supplied product details
- No carry handle is specified
Verdict: Choose this EUHOMY if you want a compact, self-cleaning bullet-ice maker and value its stated low-noise operation.
2. Silonn Portable Ice Maker: Best for Easy Carrying
The Silonn produces bullet-shaped ice in about six minutes and is rated for up to 26 pounds per day. It makes small or large cubes and has a 1.2 L water tank, plus a basket that holds up to 1.3 pounds of ice.
Its measurements are listed as 8.7 by 11.4 by 11.6 inches, and the product details give its weight as 13.7 pounds. A built-in handle helps when you need to move it, while the scoop attaches to the basket for storage. Indicator lights signal when water needs to be added or the basket is full.
For cleaning, remove the basket, add water, and hold the CLEAN button for five seconds to start the cycle. The stated cycle takes 30 minutes. That’s a longer cleaning cycle than the five-minute cycle listed for the EUHOMY nugget model, but this machine has a practical mix of portability, clear indicators, and two ice sizes.
Pros:
- Compact dimensions and a carry handle
- Stated weight of 13.7 pounds
- 1.2 L water tank and 1.3-pound basket
- Water and full-basket indicator lights
Cons:
- The listed self-cleaning cycle takes 30 minutes
- Its basket holds less ice than the machine’s stated daily output
Verdict: Pick the Silonn if you want a portable bullet-ice maker with a handle, published dimensions, and useful fill and basket indicators.
3. SenCre Countertop Ice Maker: A Larger Water Tank for Fewer Refills
The SenCre makes nine bullet-shaped cubes in as little as six minutes and has a stated daily output of up to 26.5 pounds. It offers two ice sizes, giving you a choice between smaller cubes for drinks and larger ones for uses such as coolers or frozen drinks.
Its 1.5 L water tank is larger than the listed tank in the Silonn, which may mean fewer refills during repeated ice-making cycles. The basket holds up to 1.32 pounds. A one-touch cleaning function starts with the CLEAN button; the product details recommend cleaning the machine weekly.
One important limitation is clearly stated: this machine does not refrigerate ice. Transfer finished ice to a freezer if you want to keep it from melting in the basket. That makes the SenCre a sensible choice for making ice in batches, but less suitable if you expect the machine itself to keep a large supply frozen.
Pros:
- Stated output of up to 26.5 pounds per day
- 1.5 L water tank
- Two bullet-ice sizes and one-touch cleaning
- Product details include a clear cleaning recommendation
Cons:
- The machine does not refrigerate stored ice
- The 1.32-pound basket is much smaller than the stated daily output
Verdict: Choose the SenCre if a larger listed water tank matters to you and you’re willing to move finished ice to a freezer for storage.
4. Antarctic Star Portable Ice Maker: Simple Cleaning and Dual Ice Sizes
This portable countertop model makes eight uniform cubes in about six minutes and is listed for up to 26 pounds of ice per day. It produces bullet-shaped cubes in small or large sizes, a useful option if you switch between quick-chilling drinks and larger cubes.
The product details describe a compact body with a built-in carry handle, plus an ice basket and scoop. Its automatic cleaning cycle starts by holding the ON/OFF button for five seconds. Unlike some models with a dedicated CLEAN button, this one uses the main power control to begin cleaning.
The supplied details don’t give a water-tank size, basket capacity, weight, or noise level. That makes it harder to compare its refill needs and portability with the Silonn. Still, it covers the basics for shoppers who want a handle, two ice sizes, and an automatic cleaning function without a complicated control setup.
Pros:
- Makes eight cubes in about six minutes
- Two ice sizes for different uses
- Built-in carry handle
- Includes an ice basket and scoop
Cons:
- Water-tank and basket capacities aren’t listed in the supplied details
- The cleaning cycle is activated through the ON/OFF button rather than a dedicated CLEAN button
Verdict: Consider this Antarctic Star if you want a compact bullet-ice machine with a handle and a straightforward automatic cleaning cycle.
5. EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker: Fast, Chewable Ice
Unlike the other picks, this EUHOMY makes nugget ice rather than bullet-shaped cubes. Its soft, chewable pellets suit people who like to crunch ice or add it to coffee and smoothies. The product details say it can begin making ice in four to five minutes and produce up to 40 pounds per day.
The machine has a 1.3-quart water tank and a removable basket that holds up to 1.3 pounds. A handle, viewing window, and scoop that stores upright add convenience for moving and using it. “ICE FULL” and “ADD WATER” indicators help show when to empty the basket or refill the reservoir.
A five-minute self-cleaning cycle starts by pressing and holding the ON/OFF button for three seconds after adding water. The product details also state that the model is ETL certified and comes with one year of after-sales service. Its main trade-off is the smaller basket compared with its stated daily output, so you’ll need to empty it regularly if you make ice throughout the day.
Pros:
- Makes nugget ice in about four to five minutes
- Stated daily output of up to 40 pounds
- Carry handle, viewing window, and ice-status indicators
- Five-minute self-cleaning cycle
Cons:
- The 1.3-pound basket needs regular emptying during extended use
- Nugget ice is a different texture and shape from traditional bullet cubes
Verdict: Choose this EUHOMY if you specifically want soft, chewable nugget ice and value its fast production and stated high daily output.
How to Choose the Best Self-Cleaning Portable Ice Maker
Choose the Ice Shape You’ll Actually Use
Most machines in this list make bullet-shaped ice, with a choice of small or large cubes. Smaller cubes can chill drinks quickly, while larger cubes may suit drinks or coolers where you want a different size. The EUHOMY nugget model is the outlier: its soft, chewable ice has a different feel and use than bullet ice. Pick based on your preference, not just the machine’s production speed.
Match Daily Output to Your Routine
Several models are rated to make about 26 pounds per day, while the nugget-ice EUHOMY is rated for up to 40 pounds. These are stated daily production capacities, not the amount the basket can hold at once. If you need ice for a gathering, check both figures and plan to empty the basket into a freezer as it fills.
Check Basket and Water-Tank Capacity
A larger water tank can reduce how often you refill the machine, while basket capacity determines how much finished ice is ready at one time. The Silonn lists a 1.2 L tank and 1.3-pound basket; the SenCre lists a 1.5 L tank and 1.32-pound basket. The nugget model lists a 1.3-quart tank and 1.3-pound basket. Consider both capacities together when deciding whether a machine fits your household’s pace.
Understand What Self-Cleaning Does
An automatic cleaning cycle can make routine care easier, but it doesn’t mean you can ignore the machine’s cleaning instructions. The models use different controls and cycle lengths: the Silonn lists a 30-minute cycle, while the nugget EUHOMY lists a five-minute cycle. Follow the directions for the model you choose, and keep the water reservoir and other parts clean as instructed.
Think About Where You’ll Use It
For a kitchen counter or office desk, dimensions and noise specifications can matter. For moving the machine between rooms or taking it on a trip, look for a handle and a stated weight. The Silonn lists both measurements and weight, while the Antarctic Star and nugget EUHOMY details specify a carry handle. Check the product listing for the space and portability details that matter to you.
Plan for Ice Storage
Portable countertop ice makers are designed to make ice in batches, so don’t assume the machine will keep a full basket frozen. The SenCre product information specifically says the machine has no refrigeration function and recommends storing ice in a refrigerator to prevent melting. If you need a supply that stays frozen, plan to transfer ice to a freezer rather than leaving it in the basket.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly do these portable ice makers make ice?
The listed production times range from about four to six minutes, depending on the model. The nugget-ice EUHOMY is listed at four to five minutes, while the bullet-ice options are generally listed at about six minutes. Actual output can depend on operating conditions.
Does a self-cleaning function replace regular cleaning?
No. It helps with routine internal cleaning, but you should still follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. The SenCre details recommend cleaning weekly, and other models may have their own directions.
Will the ice stay frozen in the basket?
Don’t count on it. The SenCre product details explicitly state that the machine does not refrigerate ice and advise moving it to a refrigerator to prevent melting. For other models, check the product instructions and transfer ice to a freezer if you want to store it.
What is the difference between bullet ice and nugget ice?
Bullet ice is the shape made by the first four machines in this list. Nugget ice is a softer, chewable pellet style, which is the type made by the EUHOMY nugget model. Choose the style you prefer for drinks and snacking.
Can I use a portable ice maker in an RV or office?
Several product descriptions list settings such as offices and RVs as possible uses. Before buying, compare the machine’s dimensions with your available counter space and follow its setup and operating instructions.
Which model is easiest to carry?
The Silonn lists a built-in handle, compact dimensions, and a weight of 13.7 pounds, making it the easiest to assess for moving. The Antarctic Star and EUHOMY nugget model also list carry handles, but their supplied details don’t provide a weight.
Final Recommendation
For most shoppers who want a straightforward bullet-ice machine, the EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker is a strong starting point because it combines two ice sizes, a one-touch cleaning function, and a stated 45 dB operating level. Choose the Silonn if carrying convenience and clearly listed tank and basket capacities matter more. If you prefer chewable ice, the EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker is the clear fit; just be prepared to empty its basket as it fills.