Best Commercial Undercounter Ice Machines Reviews

Best Overall Undercounter Ice Machine

Built for busy bars, restaurants, hotels, and cafés, the Hoshizaki IM-200BAK delivers the reliable ice production and long-term durability that commercial operations demand. Producing up to 186 lbs. of full-size cube ice per day with 75 lbs. of built-in storage, it provides enough capacity for steady beverage service while maintaining the space-saving footprint of an undercounter unit. Features like the EverCheck™ service alert system and a removable air filter simplify maintenance and help minimize downtime, making this machine a strong all-around choice for operators who need dependable daily performance.

Hoshizaki IM-200BAK 39 1/2" Self-Contained Air-Cooled Regular Cube Ice Machine - 186 lbs. | $5,250.00

Read customer reviews for the Hoshizaki IM-200BAK.

Runner Up: Avantco Ice UC-F-120-A

Best Undercounter Cube Ice Machine

For operations that prioritize premium beverage presentation, the Manitowoc USP0100A-161 CrystalCraft stands out by producing crystal-clear square ice cubes that enhance everything from cocktails and spirits to iced coffee and soft drinks. Capable of making up to 100 lbs. of ice per day with a 38-lbs. integrated storage bin, this undercounter unit is well suited for bars, cafes, lounges, and smaller restaurants where ice quality is just as important as output speed. Its smaller size, front-access design, and durable stainless steel construction make it easy to integrate into existing beverage stations while still delivering the consistent cube shape and clarity expected in commercial service.

Manitowoc USP0100A-161 CrystalCraft 20" Air Cooled Undercounter Square Cube Ice Machine | $2,963.00

Read customer reviews for the Manitowoc USP0100A-161.

Best Undercounter Nugget Ice Machine

The Manitowoc UNP0200A-161 is an excellent choice for foodservice operators who want the soft, chewable nugget ice that has become increasingly popular in restaurants, convenience stores, cafes, and self-serve beverage stations. Producing up to 220 lbs. of nugget ice per day with a 30-lbs. dispensing bin, this compact unit is designed to keep up with continuous demand while fitting neatly beneath standard countertops.

Manitowoc UNP0200A-161 20" Undercounter Air Cooled Nugget Ice Machine - 220 lbs. | $4,818.00

Read customer reviews for the Manitowoc UNP0200A-161.

Runner Up: Scotsman UN324AX-1A

Best Undercounter Gourmet Ice Machine

When drink presentation is a priority, the Ice-O-Matic UCG060A delivers the slow-melting, crystal-clear gourmet ice cubes favored by upscale bars, restaurants, and hotel lounges. This compact undercounter unit produces up to 65 lbs. of gourmet ice per day and stores 17.5 lbs. of ice in an integrated bin, making it well suited for lower-volume operations that value premium ice quality over maximum production. Adjustable legs for easy cleaning and maintenance and a corrosion-resistant stainless steel exterior further distinguish this machine as a practical option for operators seeking dependable performance with a polished appearance.

Shop the Ice-O-Matic UCG060A 15" Air Cooled Undercounter Gourmet Cube Ice Machine - 115V, 1 Phase, 63 lbs. | $2,093.00

Read customer reviews for the Ice-O-Matic UCG060A.

Runner Up: Scotsman CU50PAX-1A

Best Water Cooled Undercounter Ice Machine

The Scotsman UC2024SWX-1A is a dependable solution for commercial kitchens and beverage programs operating in hot environments where air-cooled equipment may struggle to maintain peak efficiency. Using a water-cooled condenser, this unit produces up to 230 lbs. of small cube ice per day and stores 80 lbs. in an integrated bin, providing ample capacity for restaurants, bars, cafes, and healthcare facilities with steady daily ice demands. Agion antimicrobial technology on the unit's main components ensure a sanitary machine, while a heavy-duty, rust-free front panel and corrosion-resistant aluminum side panels provide extended durability.

Scotsman UC2024SWX-1A 24" Water-Cooled Undercounter Small Cube Ice Machine with 80 lbs. Bin - 230 lbs., 115V | $2,762.00

Best Budget Undercounter Ice Machine

For cafes, breakrooms, small restaurants, and start-up foodservice operations, the Avantco Ice Diamond EUC-G-80-A offers an affordable way to add premium gourmet ice without investing in a higher-priced commercial unit. This undercounter ice machine produces up to 77 lbs. of gourmet ice per day and stores 33 lbs. in its integrated bin, providing enough capacity for light to moderate beverage service. A built-in cleaning mode circulates water and a descaling agent without activating cooling, simplifying the cleaning process for staff. Additionally, each exterior panel can be removed independently to further simply maintenance.

Shop the Avantco Ice Diamond EUC-G-80-A Air-Cooled Undercounter Gourmet Cube Ice Machine with 33 lbs. Bin - 77 lbs., 115V | $1,899.00

How We Chose the Best Undercounter Ice Machines

Every commercial operation has different ice production needs, making it important to evaluate undercounter ice machines based on more than capacity alone. To identify the strongest performers, we researched leading models across the industry, reviewed customer feedback, compared key performance features, and consulted with foodservice experts. We also considered how each machine would perform in real-world commercial environments, from busy bars and restaurants to cafes and hotels. Follow the criteria below to ensure you purchase the perfect ice equipment for your situation, avoiding purchasing the wrong ice machine:

Ice Type

The type of ice an undercounter machine produces has a direct impact on beverage presentation, customer experience, and intended use. Standard cube ice is the most versatile option, making it ideal for restaurants, bars, hotels, and healthcare facilities thanks to its slow melting rate and broad compatibility with beverages. Nugget ice is softer and chewable, making it a popular choice for self-service drink stations, cafes, and convenience stores, while gourmet ice offers exceptional clarity and a larger cube size that enhances premium cocktails, spirits, and upscale beverage service. Choosing the appropriate ice type ensures the machine works well with menu offerings and meets customer expectations.

Size and Output

Daily ice production should match an operation's peak demand without occupying more space than necessary. Smaller cafes, offices, and breakrooms may only require enough capacity for occasional beverage service, while busy restaurants and bars often need machines capable of producing well over 200 lbs. of ice each day. Storage capacity is equally important, as a larger integrated bin reduces the likelihood of running out of ice during rush periods. Balancing ice production with available installation space helps operators maximize efficiency while avoiding unnecessary equipment costs.

Condenser Type

Undercounter ice machines are available with either air-cooled or water-cooled condensers, and the right choice depends largely on the installation environment. Air-cooled models are the most common because they use less water and generally have lower operating costs, making them suitable for most commercial kitchens and beverage stations. Water-cooled units, however, excel in locations with consistently high ambient temperatures or limited airflow, where they can maintain reliable ice production despite warmer conditions.

An undercounter ice machine is a long-term investment that can improve beverage quality, streamline daily service, and make better use of valuable workspace. Matching production capacity, ice style, and cooling system to the demands of the operation helps ensure reliable performance while avoiding unnecessary operating costs or production bottlenecks. By selecting a model that fits both current needs and future growth, foodservice operators can maintain a consistent supply of ice that keeps service running efficiently, even during the busiest parts of the day.