Comparison: Best Ice Machine For Cocktails (Updated | Oct 22nd)
Crafting the perfect cocktail at home requires the right ingredients and tools, and ice is no exception. Different ice types enhance different drinks, so choosing the right ice machine can significantly elevate your cocktail game. This comparison explores a range of ice machines suitable for home bars and cocktail enthusiasts. We’ll examine key features like ice type, production capacity, size, and ease of use to help you determine which machine best fits your needs. Whether you prefer clear cubes, nugget ice, or something in between, we’ll break down the pros and cons to empower you to make an informed decision.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
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Best for crystal-clear ice:
Rellytech 2’’ Ice Ball Maker – 4 pcs Round Cubes in 35 Mins -
Best for luxury cocktail cubes:
COMMODORE LUXECUBE Luxury Ice Maker – 115V AC Large Cocktail Ice Machine -
Best for chewable nugget ice:
Kismile Nugget Ice Makers Countertop -
Best for fast ice production:
2'' Clear Ice Ball Maker – 4 Ice Spheres in 35min -
Best for versatile frozen drinks:
Slushie Machine for Home -
Best for portable ice maker:
Igloo Electric Countertop Ice Maker Machine – Automatic and Portable – 33 Pounds in 24 Hours – Ice Cube Maker – Ice Scoop and Basket – Ideal for Iced Coffee and Cocktails – Black -
Best for clear ice balls:
Hicozy B1 Clear Ice Ball Maker Countertop -
Best for best budget option:
DASH Shaved Ice Maker and Slushie Machine (Aqua): Multi-Purpose Ice Shaver Machine for Homemade Shaved Ice -
Best for large sphere ice:
Silicone Ice Ball Molds for Whiskey – Set of 4 Round Makers with Lids for Cocktails -
Best for sphere and square:
ROTTAY Ice Cube Trays (Set of 2)
Product Comparison: Best Ice Machine For Cocktails
Crystal-Clear Ice
Rellytech 2’’ Ice Ball Maker – 4 pcs Round Cubes in 35 Mins, 144pcs/Day, Clear Sphere Ice Maker Machine for Whiskey, Bourbon & Cocktails, Self-Cleaning, Auto Water Supply, for Home Bar & Parties
Rellytech
- 【Crystal-Clear Ice Balls】Relltytech ice ball maker crafts ultra-transparent sphere ice maker with minimized bubbles, achieving 99% optical clarity for glass-like purity. Melting 30% slower than regular ice, it keeps drinks perfectly chilled without dilution—ideal for showcasing the layered notes of single malt scotch and aged bourbon.
- 【35-Minute Whiskey Ice Ball Ready】No more long waits. Produce four slow-melting, crystal-clear ice balls in just 35 minutes. This rapid-freeze technology is perfect for whiskey nights, letting you impress guests with bar-quality ice.
- 【Continuous Ice Production】With a daily production capacity of up to 144 pucks, the sphere ice machine has a large capacity of 56 pucks for cocktail parties of 20-30 guests. It ensures a constant supply of premium, slow-melting round ice, guaranteeing every drink stays perfectly chilled and smooth, never watered down.
- 【Effortless Watering & Cleaning】Connect to a water line for continuous ice or use the 0.45-gallon built-in tank for countertop flexibility. The bottom drain simplifies setup, while one-touch auto-clean keeps ice pure—interior and basket are wipe-friendly for deep cleaning, eliminating messy trays and manual defrosting.
- 【Ultra-Quiet & LED Touch Panel】 Operating below 45dB, it’s perfect for intimate gatherings or late-night sipping—no disturbance for conversations, work, or relaxation, ensuring a quiet environment. This countertop ice maker features an intuitive LED touch panel, clearly indicating ice-making status, water needs, full basket, low water level, and self-cleaning mode, making ice production effortless.
- 【Smart Insulation】When the ice basket is full, the ice maker machine activates insulation mode: the compressor runs 35 minutes every hour to slow melting, preserving perfect chill and undiluted flavor for a smoother, more delicious experience.
- 【Gift for a Whiskey Connoisseur】 Gift him an experience that transforms his whiskey ritual. Thoughtfully designed for birthdays, Father’s Day, or anniversaries. The ice ball maker is a practical luxury that matches his taste, because the best gifts don’t just sit on the shelf; they become part of his daily enjoyment.
Luxury Cocktail Cubes
COMMODORE LUXECUBE Luxury Ice Maker – 115V AC Large Cocktail Ice Machine, Produces 9 Crystal Clear 1.5" Ice Cubes per Hour, Stores 18 Cubes, Built-in Quiet Operation, Self-Cleaning, ETL Listed
Commodore
- [ SPECIFICATIONS ]: Model: CM-LC-1-01 | Voltage: 115V/60Hz | Ice Size: 1.5" Cubes | Ice Output: 9 Cubes per Hour | Storage Capacity: 18 Cubes | Net Weight: 12kg | Dimensions: 240 x 382 x 380mm | Certification: ETL Listed
- [ CRYSTAL CLARITY TECHNOLOGY ]: Uses directional freezing to create dense, transparent cubes that melt slowly and preserve the integrity of cocktails, spirits, and other premium beverages without watering them down.
- [ LUXURY CUBES FOR HIGH-END COCKTAILS ]: Produces 9 extra-large 1.5” cocktail ice cubes every hour, perfect for bourbon, whiskey, and old fashioneds. Elevates presentation and enhances the overall drink experience.
- [ QUIET, BUILT-IN OPERATION WITH STORAGE ]: Built for understated performance, this compact unit features a low-noise design, a storage bin that holds up to 18 cubes, and fits seamlessly into modern countertops or bar setups
- [ SELF-CLEANING MODE & EASY 3-STEP USE ]: Built-in automatic self-cleaning function keeps your machine fresh. Just fill the reservoir, select your cycle, and enjoy perfect cubes—no plumbing required.
- [ DURABLE AND EFFICIENT ENGINEERING ]: Features ETL-certified construction, premium-grade housing, and an ergonomic cube tray and tong included for effortless retrieval and serving.
- [ ENERGY-EFFICIENT & SAFE ]: Runs on just 2.3A of current and includes advanced insulation with non-toxic R290 refrigerant and C5H10 vesicant, making it safe and efficient for long-term home or commercial use
- [ ONE-YEAR MINIMUM WARRANTY INCLUDED ]: Manufacturer offers a minimum 1-year warranty, with coverage extending in accordance with your country’s consumer protection laws, starting from the original purchase date.
Chewable Nugget Ice
Kismile Nugget Ice Makers Countertop,Portable Ice Machine with Crushed Ice, 35lbs/Day,Self-Cleaning,One-Click Operation for Home Use(Silver)
Kismile
- 【Rapid Ice Production】New Nugget ice maker machine is remarkably efficient! With its 1.1L water tank, it produces 35 pounds of ice within 24 hours. Our countertop ice maker machine churns out the first batch in just 7 minutes,ensuring continuous and rapid ice-making. No more trips to the store for ice!
- 【Effortless Care, Uninterrupted Freshness】Bid farewell to laborious cleaning tasks. A mere 5-second press of the ON/OFF button activates the pebble ice maker machine's self-cleaning feature. In just 15 minutes, a brand-new ice maker emerges, ready to serve you with fresh ice.
- 【Chewable Nugget Ice】Crafted by crushed ice maker, chewable nugget ice stands apart. Its delightful crunchiness arises from compacted, layered ice flakes, boasting a slow melt and superior texture. Ideal for slushies, cocktails, sodas, and more, it preserves the authentic flavors like no other ice.
- 【Quiet and User-Friendly】Portable ice maker rigorously tested in a noise-controlled environment, producing a mere 43 DB to ensure a tranquil atmosphere for any occasion.Plus, Sonic ice maker's intuitive LED indicators keep you informed about water levels, ice production, and self-cleaning status, making ice preparation a breeze.
- 【Compact Countertop Ice Maker】 It's more than a ice machine; it's a modern work of art. With dimensions of 12.8" x 11.22" x 8.86", Small ice maker's stylish design adds an elegant touch to any space. The transparent casing lets you check ice storage at a glance, and you can savor ice with the included scoop.
Fast Ice Production
2'' Clear Ice Ball Maker – 4 Ice Spheres in 35min, 144 pcs/Day, Auto&Manual Fill, Fast Ice Machine with LCD Touch Panel, Self-Cleaning, Quiet Home & Bar Ice for Whiskey Bourbon Parties
OYLUS
- 【ULTRA-FAST ICE BALL PRODUCTION】– Forget waiting overnight. With Oylus ice ball maker, enjoy 4 crystal-clear, slow-melting ice balls in just 35 minutes. Producing up to 144 premium ice spheres per day, it's up to 6X faster than traditional molds—perfect for parties, bourbon, cocktails, or whiskey nights.
- 【DUAL WATER FILLING OPTIONS】– Unlike most countertop ice makers limited to manual filling, this ice ball machine offers dual water input options. Simply connect to a water line for hands-free, continuous production. No refills, no interruptions. Whether you host all night or just need a few rounds, Oylus keeps the ice flowing.
- 【PERFECTLY CLEAR & SLOW-MELTING ICE】– Craft ultra-clear, dense ice spheres that melt slowly and preserve every note of flavor. With Oylus ice maker, you get consistently smooth, bubble-free ice. Whether for entertaining guests or daily indulgence, enjoy a steady supply with professional-grade consistency.
- 【AUTOMATIC SELF-CLEANING】– Ensure pure, fresh-tasting ice spheres with every batch thanks to the self-cleaning function. Just press and go—no scrubbing required. The hygienic cycle removes mineral buildup, extending the life and quality of your machine greatly.
- 【BUILT-IN COLD STORAGE】– Finished ice ball stays chilled inside the insulated basket, with automatic pause when full. The transparent viewing window lets you monitor levels at a glance—no overflows, no guesswork. For best results, simply transfer to your freezer for longer-term storage.
- 【INTUITIVE LCD TOUCH CONTROL】– Designed for effortless operation, the sleek LCD panel of the ice machine puts full control at your fingertips, while intuitive indicator lights keep you informed about water levels and ice production. A built-in door light makes late-night ice retrieval easy—modern comfort, redefined.
Versatile Frozen Drinks
Slushie Machine for Home, Frozen Drink&Slushy Machine with Cookbook, Margarita Machine with 6 Presets Programs, No Ice Needed Self-Cleaning Slushy Maker, Cocktails, Frappés, Soft Ice Cream, Milkshakes
AAOBOSI
- Got Slushies in 15 Minutes: This slushie machine transforms drinks into frosty, refreshing treats in just 15 minutes flat – no pre-frozen ice needed! Simply pour in your favorite beverage, and watch it turn into crave-worthy slush in 15-45 minutes (the longer the machine runs, the smoother the texture). Perfect for whipping up instant cool-downs during busy family breakfasts or when you walk in the door after a long day!
- Healthy Drink Reference: The Frozen Drink Maker package includes a recipe book containing classic alcoholic drinks, juice slushies, soda slushies, coffee slushies, and healthy sugar-free formulas, covering frozen margaritas, sugar-free slushies, sugary slushies, and Christmas special drinks.
- Diverse Frozen Drinks: The AAOBOSI slushie machine features a high-brightness LED display and six modes, real-time temperature display, and seven adjustable thickness settings. From frozen juice to Slush, use the milkshake mode to make soft ice cream, spiked slush with alcohol, or ordinary cold drinks. You can easily accomplish all this at home, saving you the trouble of going out to buy them.
- Party Essential: This 68oz-capacity slushy maker makes 2-10 cups of frozen margaritas, perfect for family gatherings or small parties. Your slush stays fresh for 12 hours after preparation. The machine runs continuously to keep your drinks delicious – do not turn it off during this time. (For best flavor, texture, and freshness, slushies should be eaten soon.)
- Quick Cleaning: After enjoying your delicious slush, pour approximately 64oz of water and a small amount of dish soap into the container. Activate the automatic cleaning mode to complete the machine’s cleaning. For deeper cleaning, detachable parts are dishwasher-safe – you may place them directly in the dishwasher or wash thoroughly by hand.
- Remember: When trying sugar-free recipes or syrup-based drinks, sugar content must exceed 6%, while alcoholic beverages should contain 4% to 16% alcohol. Only liquids may be added to the container. To achieve best results, set thickness to maximum level until all slush is dispensed.
Portable Ice Maker
Igloo Electric Countertop Ice Maker Machine – Automatic and Portable – 33 Pounds in 24 Hours – Ice Cube Maker – Ice Scoop and Basket – Ideal for Iced Coffee and Cocktails – Black
Igloo
- Note : Please check the dimension and item weight of the product and confirm it fits your space
- DESIGNED FOR CONVENIENCE: Convenient and compact in size, this ice maker looks good on a countertop while producing ice for whenever or wherever you need it
- LARGE ICE-MAKING CAPACITY: Keep the 2.5-quart water tank filled and this unit will produce 33 pounds of ice in a 24 hour period – enough to keep drinks cold all day long
- ICE BASKET CAPACITY: Stores up to 2 pounds of ice at a time so you can keep your drinks ice-cold
- QUICK-FREEZING ICE: Makes 9 small or large cylinder-shaped ice cubes in as little as 7 minutes
Clear Ice Balls
Hicozy B1 Clear Ice Ball Maker Countertop,Sphere Ice Maker with IcyGem Technology,2 Ice balls in 60Mins,40 pcs/Day, Self-Cleaning Ice Machine with Ice Tong for Cocktails, Whiskey & Bourbon
Hicozy
- Why Choose Ice Balls: Ice balls are beverage game-changers! They melt slower than regular ice cubes, maintaining the perfect balance of concentration and temperature in your wine. These ice balls effectively lock in a refreshing flavor with every sip. Their elegant round shape adds a touch of shine and glow to your glass, creating a magical visual experience that enhances your enjoyment.
- Your Ultimate Alcoholic Drink Companion: Meet the HiCOZY Ball Ice Maker, your go-to sidekick for crafting crystal-clear ice balls — free from air bubbles, cracks and odors. Say goodbye to inferior molds. These beautifully round ice balls are 50% harder, ensuring they won’t crack even after prolonged swirling. Plus, they prevent melting dilution, elevating your drinking experience to professional levels, ensuring you can sip and entertain with confidence.
- Quick & Efficient Ice-Making: The HiCOZY Ball Ice Maker produces two standard whisky ice balls in just 60-80 minutes. With its spacious ice basket design, it can hold 8-10 ice balls, making it easy to use and grab whenever you need. The hassle of running back and forth to grab ice cubes is over! Sit back, sip, and enjoy these delicious ice balls.
- One-Press Auto Processing: With a smart LED display that alerts you to water shortages and full ice status, the HiCOZY Ice Maker simplifies the ice-making process. Say goodbye to tedious preparation. Enjoy a top-tire drinking experience at home, with a glass of aromatic whisky ready at your fingertips.
- Thoughtful and Practical Features: Along with the HiCOZY Ball Ice Maker, this package includes a stainless steel ice tong and a spill-resistant drip tray. These additional tools let you serve ice and stay dry, simplifying the water-filling process. This user-friendly design ensures a rapid ice-making process, saving you from the hassle of cleaning up spills.
- Note:The initial ice-making cycle may take longer due to the water cooling process. For faster, high-quality ice production, use drinking water between 59°F – 77°F (15°C – 25°C). Temperatures outside this range affect ice quality.
Best Budget Option
DASH Shaved Ice Maker and Slushie Machine (Aqua): Multi-Purpose Ice Shaver Machine for Homemade Shaved Ice, Snow Cones, Slushies, Cocktails & More with Stainless Steel Blades, Easy to Clean and Store
DASH
- VERSATILE SNOW CONE MACHINE: The DASH Shaved Ice Maker and Slushie Machine creates delicious shaved ice, snow cone cups, slushies, cocktails, and more. Sharp blades shave with precision for fluffier frozen treats – just add ice!
- PERSONALIZED TREATS: This slushie maker allows personalization of recipes. Choose your own ingredients and top your slushie with fresh fruit to create healthier sweet treats right at home. Plus, make fresh snow cone syrup flavors with the included recipe guide.
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN: This shaved ice maker doubles as a cocktail maker machine. Get creative and make artisanal shaved ice cocktails and mocktails. The possibilities are endless.
- CONVENIENT AND SPACE-SAVING: The snow cone maker and frozen drink machine is lightweight and compact for easy storage. It’s also easy to disassemble for a no-mess cleanup.
- INCLUDES: One Dash Shaved Ice Maker, Recipe Guide, and Instruction Manual
Large Sphere Ice
Silicone Ice Ball Molds for Whiskey – Set of 4 Round Makers with Lids for Cocktails, Bourbon, and Drinks
FOSOE
- LARGE SPHERE ICE CUBE: These ice molds creates 2.5” large round ice cubes. Large ice ball melts slower than regular smaller ice cubes. That way your whiskey or drinks won’t get easily watered down. It helps with keeping your drinking experience refreshing for a longer period of time.
- EASY RELEASE: The assembly design makes the release easier than traditional ice cube mold. The bottom part of the ice mold is made of soft silicone. Just squeeze the silicone bottom to easily release the ice ball. Let it sit for 1 minute to make it even easier to be released from the mold!
- EASY-FILL DESIGN: The sphere ice cube mold can be separated in the middle which accelerates the water filling process. After opening, you’ll be able to insert your favorite ingredients like vanilla, lemon, mint or any other spice you’d like to freeze your ice ball with. The transparent lid lets you see the water level allowing you to stop filling in time.
- SAFE FOOD-GRADE MATERIALS: FOSOE ice ball maker mold made of food-grade materials. It’s BPA Free, hygienic, non-toxic and odorless. Both the silicone and AS material provide superb airtightness which keeps the ice sphere mold from separating when filled with water, giving you a perfectly sphere shaped.
- ICE CUBE TRAYS for FREEZER: The individual round ice cube mold take up almost no space and there’s no concern of them tipping over. They can be placed in any limited corner spaces inside the freezer.
- PERFECT SERVICEPERFECT SERVICE: Please feel free to contact us with any questions and conditions, we will do our best to serve!: Please feel free to contact us with any questions and conditions, we will do our best to serve!
Sphere and Square
ROTTAY Ice Cube Trays (Set of 2), Sphere Ice Ball Maker with Lid & Large Square Ice Cube Maker for Whiskey, Cocktails and Homemade, Keep Drinks Chilled Black
Rottay
- [UPGRADED SPHERE ICE TRAYS] Better than other round ice makers with 4 slots, our ice trays with quick open buckle make you effortlessly release 6 crystal-clear 2” ice balls at one time. A bonus funnel for you to fill water easily. Unique bumping seals ensure that your whiskey ice are formed perfectly round . Balance design at the bottom prevents leaning for the best possible user experience.
- [LARGE SQUARE ICE CUBES] Square ice tray allows you to make 6 large 2” ice cubes each time. With this perfect size and classic shapes, ice cubes are very suitable for cooling your drink quickly and lasting long enough to pour other beverage over it. Use them to chilling your Old Fashioned, Scotch , Bourbon or Blended Whiskey.
- [PREMIUM SILICONE ICE CUBE TRAY] Made of high-quality silicone, ice trays can be used in the freezer, microwave, dishwasher. Flexible and durable ice ball maker can be easily twisted without cracking and make the ice ball simply pop out the perfectly formed.
- [MULTIPLE APPLICATIONS ICE TRAYS] Ideal for parties, restaurants, beaches, holiday Entertaining and holiday gifts. You can use the ice tray to cool your cocktails, whiskeys, ice tea, iced coffee drink, juice or add edible flowers, lemon slices to the water as well to make chocolates, puddings, fruit jellies, candies, cake.
- [CUSTOMER SUPPORT] We are confident that you'll love our ice cube tray. We are devoted to provide customers with best customer support. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us via Amazon. We will reply and help you solve the problem within 24 hours.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What type of ice is best for cocktails?
Clear ice, especially large cubes or spheres, is preferred as it melts slower and dilutes drinks less.
Why is clear ice better than cloudy ice?
Clear ice is denser and melts slower due to the directional freezing process that removes impurities.
What is a nugget ice maker and is it good for cocktails?
Nugget ice makers produce small, chewable ice. While some enjoy it, it melts quickly and dilutes cocktails faster than larger ice.
How long does it take to make clear ice?
Clear ice machines can take 35 minutes or longer to produce a batch of ice, depending on the model and size of the ice.
Are ice ball makers worth it for cocktails?
Yes, ice ball makers create large, spherical ice that melts slowly, keeping your drinks colder for longer without excessive dilution.
Can I use a regular ice maker for cocktails?
Yes, but the ice may be cloudy and melt faster. Clear ice makers are specifically designed for better cocktail ice.
What features should I look for in a cocktail ice maker?
Consider ice clarity, size options (cubes, spheres, nuggets), production speed, and ease of use and cleaning.
Are slushie machines suitable for cocktail ice?
Slushie machines create finely crushed ice, which is not ideal for most cocktails as it melts very quickly. They are better suited for frozen drinks.
