The Best Antarctic Star Ice Makers in 2026: 4 Picks

Quick picks

Our 4 picks

1 Best overall

Antarctic Star 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker

Best for: small spaces and quick ice needs

Daily Ice Production

26 lbs/day

Ice Type

bullet

Form Factor

countertop

Batch Time

6 minutes

Dimensions

10.4 × 8.66 × 11.2 inches

View on Amazon: Antarctic Star 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker Affiliate link

This Antarctic Star unit produces 26 pounds of bullet ice daily, with a batch cycle taking just six minutes. Its compact footprint measures 8.66 by 10.4 by 11.2 inches, fitting easily on most counters. The machine operates at less than 40 decibels, making it suitable for quiet environments. You get a self-cleaning function to maintain hygiene. It is ideal for small gatherings or daily hydration needs where speed and space matter.

Pros

• Produces 26 pounds of ice per day
• Delivers a batch in 6 minutes
• Operates at under 40 decibels
• Includes a one-touch self-cleaning cycle

Cons

• Bullet ice shape melts faster than crescent ice
• No water hook-up for continuous production
• Manual water filling required for each batch

Good fit if

• You need ice quickly for small gatherings
• You have limited counter space
• You prefer quiet operation in your home

Skip if

• You need continuous ice for large events
• You prefer slow-melting crescent ice shapes
• You want a built-in water line

Verdict: Antarctic Star 26lb Countertop Ice Maker is a solid choice for individuals or couples who want fast, quiet ice production without taking up much space. It fits well in apartments or offices where noise and size are concerns.

2 Best premium

Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker, White

Best for: High-volume nugget ice production

Daily Ice Production

33 lbs

Storage Capacity

1.5 lbs

Ice Type

nugget

Form Factor

countertop

Batch Time

10–15 minutes

Water Supply

manual (1.8 L water tank)

View on Amazon: Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker, White Affiliate link

This Antarctic Star countertop machine produces chewable nugget ice. It makes up to 33 pounds daily. The unit holds 1.8 liters of water and 1.5 pounds of ice. You get ice in 10 to 15 minutes. The touch screen controls dispensing. It fits on most counters. The design suits homes or offices needing soft ice.

Pros

• Produces up to 33 lbs of nugget ice per 24 hours
• 1.8 L water tank and 1.5 lb ice storage
• Self-cleaning function for internal water lines
• Touch screen control with one-touch dispensing
• Compact dimensions of 6.69 x 15.8 x 13.5 inches

Cons

• Manual water supply requires frequent refills
• Longer initial wait time of 10–15 minutes
• No automatic water line connection

Good fit if

• You prefer chewable nugget ice over cubes
• You need a high daily output of 33 lbs
• You want easy touch screen operation

Skip if

• You need ice in under 6 minutes
• You want automatic water line hookup
• You prefer traditional crescent ice

Verdict: Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Gen 2 delivers high-volume nugget ice for those who value soft texture and self-cleaning convenience over speed.

3 Best clear ice

Antarctic Star Countertop Crescent Ice Maker

Best for: slow-melting ice and self-cleaning convenience

Daily Ice Production

27 lbs/24h

Ice Type

Crescent

Form Factor

Countertop

Batch Time

15 min

Water Supply

61 oz water tank

Features

Self-Cleaning

View on Amazon: Antarctic Star Countertop Crescent Ice Maker Affiliate link

This Antarctic Star countertop ice maker produces slow-melting crescent ice cubes in 15 minutes. It yields up to 27 lbs of ice daily, making it suitable for parties or office use. The unit features three adjustable ice thickness settings and a self-cleaning cycle. Its compact design fits easily on counters or patios. You get crystal-clear ice that chills drinks faster while resisting dilution.

Pros

• Produces up to 27 lbs of ice per day
• Generates 16 crescent ice cubes in 15 minutes
• Offers three adjustable ice thickness settings
• Includes a one-touch self-cleaning system

Cons

• Heavier at 22.3 pounds compared to lighter portable options
• Larger footprint with a 14.1-inch width
• Manual controls only, no app connectivity

Good fit if

• You need slow-melting ice for whiskey or cocktails
• You want a self-cleaning machine for low maintenance
• You have counter space for a 14-inch wide unit

Skip if

• You prefer bullet or nugget ice shapes
• You need a unit under 20 pounds
• You want smartphone app control

Verdict: Antarctic Star Crescent Ice Maker suits users who prioritize slow-melting ice quality and easy cleaning over compact portability.

4 Best budget

Antarctic Star 26 lb Portable Countertop Ice Maker

Best for: portable ice needs in RVs or camping

Daily Ice Production

26 lbs

Form Factor

Countertop

Batch Time

6-13 mins

Daily Capacity

26 lbs/Day

Features

Self-Cleaning, Carry Handle

Application

Office, Kitchen, Party

View on Amazon: Antarctic Star 26 lb Portable Countertop Ice Maker Affiliate link

This Antarctic Star unit produces 26 pounds of ice daily in 6 to 13 minutes. It features a compact footprint of 11.2 by 8.66 by 11.7 inches and weighs 13.5 pounds. The carry handle and portable design make it easy to move for RVs or camping. You get an intelligent LED display that alerts you when water is low. The quiet operation runs under 35dB. It suits you if you need ice on the go.

Pros

• Produces 26 lbs of ice per day
• Makes ice in 6 to 13 minutes
• Includes a carry handle for portability
• Operates quietly at under 35dB
• Features an intelligent LED display

Cons

• 26 lbs daily capacity is lower than the fastest 6-minute models on this list
• Produces standard cubes rather than slow-melting crescent ice
• Requires 4 hours upright before first use

Good fit if

• You need ice for camping or RV trips
• You want a portable unit with a carry handle
• You need quick ice for summer parties

Skip if

• You require the fastest production speed available
• You prefer slow-melting crescent ice shapes
• You need a permanent countertop installation

Verdict: Antarctic Star 26lb Portable Ice Maker is a practical choice for you if you prioritize portability and a carry handle over the highest daily output or specific ice shapes found in other models.

Specifications side by side

Antarctic Star Ice Maker Options

You can choose from models that prioritize speed, texture, or portability. The Antarctic Star 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker offers a compact footprint for small spaces. It produces 26 lbs of ice daily in pure white. The Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker, White, focuses on soft, chewable nugget ice. It is wider and taller, making it a sturdy countertop option for high-volume needs. The Antarctic Star Countertop Crescent Ice Maker provides slow-melting crescent shapes. It is the heaviest unit, weighing 22.3 pounds, and features a glossy black finish. The Antarctic Star 26 lb Portable Countertop Ice Maker includes a carry handle. This black model weighs 13.5 pounds, making it ideal for RVs or camping trips where you need to move the unit easily.

Who Antarctic Star Ice Makers Suit

Antarctic Star targets users needing compact countertop ice makers. The range spans from the narrow Nugget model at 6.69 inches wide to the wider Crescent unit at 14.1 inches. You can choose between cubed, nugget, or crescent ice shapes. White and black finishes are available. All listed units are portable countertop models. The brand does not offer built-in or under-counter options in this list. You also will not find stainless steel finishes here. This range suits those prioritizing footprint and ice type over integrated installation.

How to Choose the Right Antarctic Star Ice Maker

1. Match Ice Shape to Preference

   Your drink preference dictates the ice shape. The Nugget Ice Maker produces soft, chewable nuggets ideal for sodas and lemonade. If you prefer clear, slow-melting cubes for cocktails, the Crescent Ice Maker is the better choice. For standard, versatile ice, the 26 lb Countertop model provides reliable cubed ice. Choose the shape that fits your typical beverage routine.

2. Check Daily Ice Capacity

   Daily capacity determines how much ice you can produce in 24 hours. Most Antarctic Star models listed here offer 26 lbs per day, which suits small households or office use. The Nugget model focuses on volume rather than speed. If you host frequent parties, ensure the daily output meets your peak demand. Check the lbs/24H spec to avoid running out of ice during events.

3. Measure Your Countertop Space

   Footprint matters for kitchen or office placement. The Nugget model is notably narrow at 6.69 inches wide, fitting into tight spots. The Crescent unit is wider at 14.1 inches, requiring more counter length. The 26 lb portable model measures 11.2 inches in length. Measure your available space before buying to ensure the unit fits comfortably without overcrowding your workspace.

4. Consider Portability Needs

   If you move your ice maker often, look for portability features. The 26 lb Portable Countertop Ice Maker includes a carry handle and weighs only 13.5 pounds, making it easy to transport for RV trips or camping. Other models are heavier and designed for stationary use. Check the weight and handle specs if you need to move the unit frequently.

5. Evaluate Self-Cleaning Features

   Maintenance ease varies by model. The Nugget and Portable models often include self-cleaning functions to simplify upkeep. The Crescent model also highlights self-cleaning convenience for users who want to minimize manual scrubbing. Regular cleaning prevents mold and ensures ice quality. Check the features list for self-cleaning options if you prefer low-maintenance operation.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best antarctic star black ice makers
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