HOSHIZAKI or EdgeStar? Ice Makers Compared in 2026
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This HOSHIZAKI vs EdgeStar ice maker comparison helps you pick the right unit for your space. Both models deliver stainless steel exteriors and undercounter or built-in form factors. The main difference lies in output. The Hoshizaki produces 80 pounds of cubelet ice daily. The EdgeStar makes 15 pounds per day. You also need to consider storage needs and installation requirements. One unit requires a drain, while the other does not.
Key differences
| Aspect | Hoshizaki 15-Inch Undercounter Cubelet Ice Maker | EdgeStar 15-Inch Drainless Built-In Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Ice Production | 80 lb/24 hours | 15 lb/day |
| Storage Capacity | 22 lb | 12 lb |
| Ice Type | Cubelet style | Not listed |
| Drain Requirement | Not listed | No drain required |
| Height | 33.5 inches | 24.9 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Hoshizaki 15-Inch Undercounter Cubelet Ice Maker if
- You need high-volume ice for commercial or heavy home use
- You prefer cubelet ice for faster chilling
- You have space for a taller, 33.5-inch unit
Choose EdgeStar 15-Inch Drainless Built-In Ice Maker if
- You want a compact, 24.9-inch unit for smaller spaces
- You need a drainless installation without plumbing
- Your daily ice needs are under 15 pounds
Verdict: Choose the Hoshizaki if you require significant ice production and have the space for a taller unit. Select the EdgeStar if you need a compact, drainless solution for lower-volume needs. Both offer stainless steel finishes for durability.
Hoshizaki or EdgeStar Head to Head
daily ice production
The Hoshizaki C-80BAJ delivers up to 80 pounds of ice per day under standard conditions of 70°F air and 50°F water. In warmer environments, such as 90°F air and 70°F water, output drops to 45 pounds daily. The EdgeStar IB121SS produces 15 pounds of ice each day. If you need a steady supply for a busy bar or large household, the Hoshizaki offers significantly higher volume. The EdgeStar is better suited for low-volume needs where 15 pounds is sufficient.
storage capacity
Ice storage determines how long you can go without a new batch. The Hoshizaki includes a built-in bin with a 22-pound capacity. This allows you to store nearly three days of production at the lower output rate. The EdgeStar features a 12-pound storage bin. While adequate for occasional use, it fills up faster. The larger bin on the Hoshizaki means less frequent cycles and more consistent availability during peak usage times.
form factor and size
Both units fit under counters, but dimensions differ. The Hoshizaki is 15 inches wide, 33.5 inches high, and 22.5 inches deep. It is a tall, narrow unit designed for undercounter installation. The EdgeStar is 14.9 inches wide, 24.9 inches high, and 17 inches deep. It is shorter and slightly more compact in depth. If your cabinet height is limited, the EdgeStar fits better. If you have deep undercounter space, the Hoshizaki utilizes the vertical area.
ice type
Ice shape affects drink cooling and aesthetics. The Hoshizaki produces cubelet style ice. These small, square cubes are ideal for quick cooling and fit well in standard glasses. The EdgeStar does not specify the ice shape in the provided data. You must check the manufacturer details for the exact shape. If you prefer traditional cubelets for consistent cooling, the Hoshizaki is the clear choice based on available specifications.
cooling and drainage
The Hoshizaki uses an air-cooled system with a self-contained condenser. It requires a drain connection for proper operation. The EdgeStar is labeled as requiring no drain. It likely uses a built-in pump or evaporation system to handle condensate. This makes the EdgeStar easier to install in locations without a nearby drain line. If plumbing access is limited, the EdgeStar offers a practical advantage. The Hoshizaki requires standard drainage infrastructure.
certifications and outdoor use
The Hoshizaki is UL approved for outdoor use and holds ETL-Sanitation and NSF certifications. These ratings indicate it meets strict safety and sanitation standards, suitable for commercial or harsh environments. The EdgeStar data does not list outdoor approval or NSF certification. If you plan to place the unit outside or in a commercial kitchen requiring NSF compliance, the Hoshizaki is the safer and more certified option. For indoor residential use, both are suitable.
Which ice maker fits your needs?
High-volume commercial or heavy home use
The Hoshizaki C-80BAJ produces up to 80 pounds of ice daily. This high output suits busy environments. It stores 22 pounds of cubelet ice in its bin. The unit is UL approved for outdoor use. You get reliable performance in warmer conditions, dropping to 45 pounds at 90°F air temperature. The stainless steel exterior resists corrosion and looks professional in any setting.
Compact kitchen or bar installation
The EdgeStar IB121SS fits standard 15-inch cabinetry. It measures 14.9 inches wide and 24.9 inches tall. This built-in form factor allows seamless integration into your counter. The unit weighs 50 pounds, making installation straightforward. It produces 15 pounds of ice daily, which is sufficient for moderate household use. The stainless steel finish matches other appliances in your kitchen or bar area.
Users needing drain-free convenience
The EdgeStar model requires no drain connection. This feature simplifies installation in locations without plumbing access. You can place it under counters or in closets easily. The 12-pound storage capacity holds enough ice for daily drinks. While production is lower at 15 pounds per day, the lack of drainage needs is a major practical advantage for many homes and offices.
The products compared
Hoshizaki 15-Inch Undercounter Cubelet Ice Maker
Best for: Commercial or outdoor high-volume ice needs
- Daily Ice Production
- up to 80 lb/24 hours
- Storage Capacity
- 22 lb.
- Ice Type
- cubelet style
- Form Factor
- undercounter
- Daily Capacity
- 80 lbs/Day
- Cooling Type
- Air-Cooled
View on Amazon: Hoshizaki 15-Inch Undercounter Cubelet Ice Maker Affiliate link
This Hoshizaki unit is a 15-inch undercounter ice maker with a 22-pound storage bin. It produces up to 80 pounds of cubelet ice daily. The stainless steel exterior is approved for outdoor use. You get self-contained air cooling without needing a drain. It suits you if you need reliable, high-volume ice for commercial or heavy home use.
Pros
- Produces up to 80 pounds of ice per day
- 22-pound built-in storage capacity for cubelet ice
- UL approved for outdoor use
- NSF and ETL-Sanitation certified
Cons
- Smaller 22-pound storage bin compared to competitors
- Lower 45-pound daily production in hot conditions
- No mention of water line connection for continuous operation
Good fit if
- You need NSF-certified equipment for commercial settings
- You want an outdoor-ready ice maker
- You prefer cubelet ice texture
Skip if
- You require a larger ice storage bin
- You need a built-in water line connection
- You want a portable or countertop unit
Verdict: Hoshizaki 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker delivers certified commercial-grade ice production. It fits you if you prioritize sanitation standards and outdoor durability over large storage volume.
EdgeStar 15-Inch Drainless Built-In Ice Maker
Best for: homes needing 15 lbs/day without a drain
- Daily Ice Production
- 15 lb/day
- Storage Capacity
- 12 lb
- Form Factor
- Built-in
- Drain Type
- No drain required
- Color
- Stainless Steel
- Dimensions
- 17 × 14.9 × 24.9 inches
View on Amazon: EdgeStar 15-Inch Drainless Built-In Ice Maker Affiliate link
The EdgeStar IB121SS is a 15-inch built-in ice maker with a stainless steel finish. It produces 15 pounds of ice daily and holds 12 pounds in its bin. The unit requires no drain connection, simplifying installation in most kitchens. At 50 pounds, it is a sturdy appliance. You should choose this model if you need reliable daily ice production without complex plumbing.
Pros
- Produces 15 pounds of ice per day
- 12-pound internal storage capacity
- No drain required for installation
- Built-in form factor fits cabinetry
Cons
- 15-pound daily production is lower than the Hoshizaki C-80BAJ
- 12-pound storage bin is smaller than the Hoshizaki C-80BAJ
- 50-pound weight adds bulk to the installation
Good fit if
- You need a built-in unit that does not require a drain line
- You have standard 15-inch cabinetry space available
- You want a stainless steel finish that matches other appliances
Skip if
- You require more than 15 pounds of ice per day
- You need a larger ice storage capacity than 12 pounds
- You prefer a portable or undercounter freestanding design
Verdict: EdgeStar 15-inch Built-In Ice Maker is a practical solution for homes needing 15 pounds of ice daily without drain plumbing. It fits buyers who prioritize easy installation and a built-in look over high-volume production.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Hoshizaki 15-Inch Undercounter Cubelet Ice Maker | EdgeStar 15-Inch Drainless Built-In Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Ice Production | up to 80 lb/24 hours | 15 lb/day |
| Storage Capacity | 22 lb. | 12 lb |
| Ice Type | cubelet style | not stated |
| Form Factor | undercounter | Built-in |
| Drain Type | not stated | No drain required |
| Daily Capacity | 80 lbs/Day | not stated |
| Cooling Type | Air-Cooled | not stated |
| Color | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Dimensions | 22.5 × 15 × 33.5 inches | 17 × 14.9 × 24.9 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 50 pounds |
| Model | C-80BAJ | IB121SS |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Hoshizaki ice maker require a drain?
No, the Hoshizaki C-80BAJ is an air-cooled unit that does not require a drain connection. It relies on ambient air for cooling, which simplifies installation. This design allows you to place it in locations without easy access to plumbing. The unit is built for durability and high-volume production without the need for water drainage infrastructure.
Can the EdgeStar ice maker be installed without a drain?
Yes, the EdgeStar IB121SS is a drainless built-in ice maker. It is designed for homes that need 15 pounds of ice daily without connecting to a drain line. This feature makes installation easier in kitchens or bars where plumbing access is limited. You get a built-in look with simplified setup requirements.
What is the difference in ice production between these two models?
The Hoshizaki C-80BAJ produces up to 80 pounds of ice per day. The EdgeStar IB121SS produces 15 pounds per day. The Hoshizaki is suited for commercial or high-volume use. The EdgeStar is better for lighter household needs. You should choose based on your daily ice consumption requirements.
Which ice maker is better for outdoor use?
The Hoshizaki C-80BAJ is better for outdoor or commercial environments. It is certified for commercial-grade ice production and outdoor durability. The EdgeStar IB121SS is designed for indoor built-in installation. If you need a unit that withstands harsher conditions, the Hoshizaki is the practical choice for your specific location.
How much space does each ice maker take up?
The Hoshizaki C-80BAJ is 15 inches wide, 33.5 inches high, and 22.5 inches deep. The EdgeStar IB121SS is 14.9 inches wide, 24.9 inches high, and 17 inches deep. Both are undercounter or built-in form factors. You should measure your available space to ensure the Hoshizaki fits, as it is taller and deeper.
Do both models have a stainless steel finish?
Yes, both the Hoshizaki C-80BAJ and the EdgeStar IB121SS feature a stainless steel exterior. This finish provides a clean, professional look that matches most kitchen appliances. The stainless steel construction also offers resistance to corrosion and fingerprints. You get a durable and aesthetically pleasing design with either model.