Countertop ice makers from hOmeLabs and COSTWAY eliminate the need for store-bought bagged ice by producing fresh batches directly on your kitchen counter. In our testing, we evaluated these models to determine their ice production speed, noise levels, and ease of maintenance.
Homeowners who entertain frequently find themselves comparing these two popular brands. Both companies offer compact machines that fit neatly on standard kitchen counters. Your choice should be based on your daily ice consumption and available kitchen space. Read on to see which machine deserves a spot in your kitchen.
hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker
hOmeLabs Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
The hOmeLabs ice maker provides a steady supply of ice without requiring a dedicated under-counter installation. This unit sits on your countertop and plugs into a standard electrical outlet. You fill the reservoir with water and turn it on to start the freezing cycle. It produces its first batch of bullet-shaped ice in just a few minutes. The control panel features simple buttons and indicator lights.
During our testing, the hOmeLabs machine easily kept up with the demands of a small weekend gathering. The compressor runs quietly in the background without disrupting conversations. It drops a new batch of ice into the basket regularly. The hollow ice bullets chill drinks rapidly. You must transfer the ice to a freezer for long-term storage.
The hOmeLabs unit is highly intuitive for first-time users. The water reservoir is easy to access and fill from a standard pitcher. It takes up the same amount of counter space as a large coffee maker. The silver finish matches modern stainless steel kitchen appliances. Maintenance is simple due to a convenient drain plug located at the bottom.
COSTWAY Countertop Ice Maker
COSTWAY Countertop Ice Maker
COSTWAY offers a highly competitive countertop ice maker built to handle daily home use. This machine features a sleek exterior that fits well in kitchens and home bars. It operates using a plug-and-play setup that requires no permanent plumbing lines. A transparent viewing window on the top lid lets you monitor the ice level without letting cold air escape. The included plastic scoop makes serving ice simple. It is lightweight enough to pack up and take to a campsite.
The ice production rate on the COSTWAY model is highly consistent. It churns out small or large ice bullets depending on the setting you select on the control panel. The smaller size fits water bottles with narrow openings, while the larger size works well for mixed drinks and sodas. The machine alerts you with a clear light when the ice basket is full.
The COSTWAY features a modern aesthetic that appeals to younger buyers. Both machines produce a similar volume of ice over a 24-hour period. The cooling fan on this unit is noticeable during operation. Draining the leftover water takes only a minute before you wipe the interior dry. It is a solid alternative if the hOmeLabs model is out of stock.
Water Supply and Portability
Countertop ice makers operate using a manual fill reservoir rather than a dedicated plumbing line. This setup allows you to move the unit easily, making it suitable for RVs, campsites, or different rooms in your house.
Ice Type and Storage
These machines typically produce hollow, bullet-shaped ice that chills drinks rapidly. Because portable ice makers are not freezers, the ice will eventually melt back into the water reservoir. You must transfer the ice to a standard kitchen freezer for long-term storage.
Maintenance Requirements
Regular maintenance ensures longevity and clean-tasting ice. Look for models with a convenient bottom drain plug. You should drain the leftover water, wipe the interior dry, and periodically run a cleaning cycle with white vinegar to remove mineral buildup.
Buy the hOmeLabs ice maker for quiet, reliable daily use in a standard kitchen. Choose the COSTWAY model if you need portability for RVs or camping. Measure your counter space and order your preferred machine today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these countertop ice makers keep the ice frozen all day?
No, countertop ice makers are not freezers. The ice will slowly melt back into the water reservoir if you leave it in the basket. You need to move the ice to your kitchen freezer if you want to save it for later.
Do I need to connect a water line to these machines?
Neither the hOmeLabs nor the COSTWAY model requires a dedicated water line. You simply pour tap or filtered water directly into the internal reservoir. This manual filling process makes the machines highly portable.
How often should I clean my portable ice maker?
You should drain and wipe down the interior of your ice maker every few weeks. Running a cycle with a mixture of water and a little white vinegar helps remove mineral buildup. Always rinse the machine thoroughly with fresh water after cleaning.
