Top Countertop Ice Maker Reviews: Find the Best Machine for Your Home

 Hello everyone,

Today, I’m going to compare two ice makers: the Frigidaire Nugget Ice Maker on the left and the GE Profile 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker with the side tank on the right.

I started both of these ice machines at approximately the same time. The GE model began producing ice a bit faster. Both machines make crunchy ice that tastes excellent. However, the ice produced by the GE machine is more uniformly round, while the Frigidaire's ice has four or five angles. Despite this difference, both are equally crunchy.

These ice makers are automatic, meaning they produce ice until it reaches a certain level and then shut off. As the ice melts, the machines automatically start producing ice again. Both models come with convenient scoops, and their trays open to allow easy access.

The GE ice maker fits under a standard kitchen cabinet, whereas the Frigidaire is slightly taller. Both have interior lights: the Frigidaire's light can be toggled between on and off, while the GE's light has bright and dim settings. The Frigidaire's water reservoir has a handle on top for easy removal and refilling. The GE's reservoir functions similarly but with a slightly different design.

As ice melts in both machines, the water is collected in a reservoir and recirculated to make more ice. The GE ice bucket appears to hold a bit more ice than the Frigidaire's. In terms of noise, both machines are similar, though the Frigidaire might be slightly louder when ice hits the plastic front. The GE is a bit quieter during ice production.

To control the ice makers, both have a power button and a cleaning function, which involves holding a button to initiate the cleaning cycle. Both machines have an "add water" indicator.

Let's talk about the ice quality. The GE ice is exceptionally crunchy, while the Frigidaire's is also crunchy but seems denser. Personally, I prefer the GE ice, although it's more expensive. The GE model with the side tank costs around $600, while the Frigidaire is about $330, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the Frigidaire doesn’t fit under a standard kitchen cabinet, which is a minor drawback.

The GE model has a detailed manual on how to descale and clean it with vinegar, which I found helpful. The Frigidaire's manual is less detailed, only suggesting running a clean cycle with water and draining it if not in use overnight.

The Frigidaire comes in three colors: red, silver, and another variant, while the GE Profile can be purchased with or without the side water tank. The version without the side tank is slightly cheaper.

I hope this comparison helps you decide which ice maker is right for you. Thank you all for reading!