6 Best Alternatives to the Manitowoc 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker (2026)
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The Manitowoc SM-50A delivers 52 lbs of octagon ice daily with a 25 lb storage bin. It includes a pump drain kit for flexible installation. You might seek manitowoc sm 50a undercounter ice machine alternatives if you need a different ice shape or higher daily production. Some users prefer nugget or clear ice over octagon cubes. Others want a wider unit for larger storage or a narrower profile for tight spaces. The original machine measures 14.8 inches wide and 33.5 inches tall. Its stainless steel build is durable, but the 25 lb bin may fill quickly during heavy use. You may also want a different brand for specific commercial features.
The 6 alternatives listed here share key specs with the SM-50A. All are undercounter models with drain pumps for versatile placement. They range from 15 inches wide to 16.9 inches wide. Daily production varies from 52 lbs to 110 lbs. You can choose based on your preferred ice type, whether it is bullet, gourmet, or nugget. Storage capacity and physical dimensions also differ across the list. This guide helps you find a unit that matches your space and volume needs without sacrificing essential drainage flexibility.
Our top pick: Manitowoc 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump.
How alternatives compare to Manitowoc
VEVOR 66 lb Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker
The VEVOR 66 lb Nugget Ice Maker produces 66 lbs of ice daily, which is higher than the Manitowoc SM-50A’s 52 lbs. It makes nugget ice instead of octagon cubes, offering a different texture for drinks. The unit is wider at 16.5 inches compared to the 14.8-inch Manitowoc, so it may not fit standard 15-inch undercounter slots. It includes a drain pump and reversible door, adding installation flexibility. You should choose this if you need more daily production and prefer nugget ice over solid cubes. The extra width is the main trade-off for the increased capacity and different ice shape.
COTLIN 15-Inch Undercounter Bullet Ice Maker
The COTLIN 15-Inch Undercounter Bullet Ice Maker matches the Manitowoc’s 15-inch width, making it a direct fit for the same space. It produces bullet ice rather than octagon cubes, which some users find easier to drink. Like the Manitowoc, it includes a drain pump for flexible plumbing. However, it is slightly taller at 35 inches compared to the 33.5-inch Manitowoc. Storage capacity details are not provided in the data, so you cannot compare bin size directly. Pick this model if you need the same footprint but prefer bullet ice and can accommodate the extra inch of height. It is a solid choice for tight spaces with limited side ventilation.
EdgeStar 15-Inch Undercounter Clear Ice Maker
The EdgeStar IB450SSP 15-Inch Clear Ice Maker produces clear ice, which is distinct from the opaque octagon cubes of the Manitowoc. It is slightly narrower at 14.6 inches and shorter at 32.6 inches, fitting easily under counters. It includes a drain pump for installation flexibility. The data does not specify daily production or storage capacity, so you cannot compare volume directly. Choose this if you prioritize crystal-clear ice quality for cocktails or presentations. The smaller dimensions make it suitable for tighter built-in spaces. You give up the known 52 lbs daily production of the Manitowoc for the aesthetic benefit of clear ice and a more compact profile.
EUHOMY 110 lb Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump
The EUHOMY 110 lb Undercounter Ice Maker offers significantly higher daily production than the Manitowoc’s 52 lbs. It makes hat cubes, which are different from octagon shapes. The unit is wider at 16.9 inches, so it does not fit the standard 15-inch undercounter slot. It includes a drain pump and storage bin for commercial or high-volume home use. You should pick this if you need double the ice production and can accommodate the extra width. The trade-off is the larger footprint and different cube shape. It is best suited for bars or cafes where volume matters more than fitting into a standard 15-inch cabinet space.
Scotsman 15-Inch Undercounter Gourmet Ice Maker
The Scotsman 15-Inch Undercounter Gourmet Ice Maker produces gourmet cubes, which are precise and distinct from the octagon ice of the Manitowoc. It matches the 15-inch width, fitting the same undercounter space. It includes a drain pump for flexible installation. The unit is heavier at 105 pounds compared to the 114-pound Manitowoc, though weight is not a functional difference. Daily production is listed as 65 lbs, which is higher than the Manitowoc’s 52 lbs. Choose this if you need higher production and prefer gourmet cube quality. It is ideal for bars and compact kitchens where cube precision and flexible drainage are priorities over the specific octagon shape.
EUHOMY 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker
The EUHOMY 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker produces 100 lbs of ice daily, nearly double the Manitowoc’s 52 lbs. It matches the 15-inch width, fitting the same undercounter space. It includes a drain pump for installation flexibility. The unit is slightly taller at 33.6 inches compared to the 33.5-inch Manitowoc, a negligible difference for most installations. The data does not specify ice shape, so you cannot compare cube types directly. Pick this if you need high-volume production and can fit it in a 15-inch slot. It is a strong choice for users who prioritize daily output over the specific octagon cube shape of the Manitowoc.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Manitowoc 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump
Best for: high-volume undercounter ice needs
- Daily Ice Production
- 52 lbs. per 24 hours
- Storage Capacity
- 25 lb.
- Ice Type
- Octagon cubes
- Form Factor
- Undercounter
- Drain Type
- Pump kit
- Features
- Drain Pump
View on Amazon: Manitowoc 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump Affiliate link
This undercounter ice maker produces 52 pounds of octagon cubes daily with a 25-pound storage bin. The stainless steel build measures 14.8 inches wide and includes a pump drain kit for flexibility. It suits you if you need reliable commercial-grade production in a tight space without requiring a gravity drain.
Pros
- Produces 52 lbs of ice per 24 hours
- Includes pump drain kit for flexible installation
- Stainless steel construction for durability
Cons
- 25 lb storage capacity is smaller than some competitors
- Heavier build at 114 lbs
- Limited to 1-3/8 inch octagon cube size
Good fit if
- You need high daily ice production
- You lack a gravity drain option
- You prefer stainless steel durability
Skip if
- You require nugget ice
- You need a larger storage bin
- You want a lighter unit
Verdict: Manitowoc SM-50A Undercounter Ice Maker fits you if you prioritize consistent 52 lb daily production and flexible drainage over compact storage.
VEVOR 66 lb Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker
Best for: high-volume nugget ice needs
- Daily Ice Production
- 66 Lbs/Day
- Storage Capacity
- 18 lbs
- Ice Type
- nugget ice
- Form Factor
- undercounter, freestanding, or built-in
- Drain Type
- Drain Pump
- Features
- Drain Pump, Reversible Door
View on Amazon: VEVOR 66 lb Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker Affiliate link
This VEVOR undercounter ice maker produces 66 pounds of nugget ice daily with an 18-pound storage bin. It includes a drain pump for flexible placement and a reversible door for left or right hinge installation. The unit measures 15 inches wide and 32.5 inches high. It suits you if you need high-volume nugget ice for home or small commercial use.
Pros
- Produces 66 pounds of nugget ice per day
- Includes an electric drain pump for flexible installation
- Features a reversible stainless steel door
- Triple-layer insulation for cold retention
Cons
- 18-pound storage capacity is smaller than some competitors
- 16.5-inch width is wider than the standard 15-inch slot
- Drain pump ships in a separate package
Good fit if
- You need high-volume nugget ice for parties
- You require flexible drainage options without gravity
- You want a reversible door for tight spaces
Skip if
- You need a standard 15-inch wide unit
- You prefer crescent or cube ice over nugget
- You want all components to arrive together
Verdict: VEVOR 66 lb Nugget Ice Maker delivers fast ice production and flexible drainage, making it a solid choice for users who need nugget ice and do not mind the extra width.
COTLIN 15-Inch Undercounter Bullet Ice Maker
Best for: Undercounter installation with a drain pump
- Daily Ice Production
- 52 lbs/day
- Storage Capacity
- 26 lbs
- Ice Type
- bullet
- Form Factor
- undercounter
- Drain Type
- built-in drain pump
- Dimensions
- 23 × 15 × 35 inches
View on Amazon: COTLIN 15-Inch Undercounter Bullet Ice Maker Affiliate link
The COTLIN undercounter ice maker produces bullet ice using spray technology for slower melting. It holds 26 lbs of ice and includes a built-in drain pump for flexible installation. The unit measures 15 inches wide and features a front-facing vent, allowing it to sit flush under countertops. An LCD panel lets you adjust ice thickness and set a timer.
Pros
- Built-in drain pump for upward water removal
- Front-facing ventilation for flush installation
- Adjustable ice thickness and 12-hour timer
- Reversible door for left or right hinge
Cons
- 26 lb storage capacity is smaller than many competitors
- Bullet ice type rather than gourmet cubes
- No remote control included
Good fit if
- You need a drain pump for installation under a counter
- You want bullet ice that melts slowly in drinks
- You require a 15-inch wide unit for tight spaces
Skip if
- You prefer clear, solid gourmet cubes over bullet ice
- You need more than 26 lbs of ice storage
- You want a unit with a remote control
Verdict: COTLIN Undercounter Ice Maker with Pump fits users who need a 15-inch unit with a drain pump for undercounter installation. It is a solid choice for those who prefer bullet ice and have limited space for side ventilation.
EdgeStar 15-Inch Undercounter Clear Ice Maker
Best for: clear ice in tight built-in spaces
- Daily Ice Production
- Up to 50 lbs./day
- Storage Capacity
- 25 lbs
- Ice Type
- Clear, cubed ice
- Form Factor
- Undercounter, freestanding or built-in
- Drain Type
- Internal drain pump
- Color
- Stainless Steel
View on Amazon: EdgeStar 15-Inch Undercounter Clear Ice Maker Affiliate link
This EdgeStar unit produces up to 50 lbs of clear, cubed ice daily with a 25 lb storage bin. It includes an internal drain pump, allowing for flexible placement near a water source. The stainless steel door and reversible design support built-in or freestanding use. You get restaurant-quality ice in sheet form that requires breaking apart.
Pros
- Produces up to 50 lbs of clear ice per day
- Includes an internal drain pump for flexible installation
- Reversible door allows for built-in or freestanding setups
Cons
- Ice is produced in sheets, requiring manual breaking
- 25 lb storage capacity is limited for high-volume use
- Must be installed within 4.5 ft of a drain
Good fit if
- You want clear, cubed ice for cocktails
- You need a drain pump for built-in installation
- You have a 15-inch wide space available
Skip if
- You need individual cubes without manual breaking
- You require more than 25 lbs of storage
- Your drain is located more than 4.5 ft away
Verdict: EdgeStar IB450SSP 15-Inch Clear Ice Maker suits you if you prioritize clear ice quality and built-in flexibility over convenience, provided your plumbing is close enough.
EUHOMY 110 lb Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump
Best for: High-volume bars needing drain pump flexibility
- Daily Ice Production
- 110 lbs/24h
- Storage Capacity
- 33 lbs
- Ice Type
- Hat cube
- Form Factor
- Under counter, freestanding
- Batch Time
- 10-15 minutes
- Drain Type
- Drain pump
View on Amazon: EUHOMY 110 lb Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump Affiliate link
This EUHOMy unit produces 110 lbs of clear hat cubes daily, with a 33 lb storage bin. It includes an external drain pump for flexible installation where gravity drainage is not possible. The 16.9-inch width fits standard undercounter spaces. An LCD panel controls ice size and self-cleaning. It suits busy bars and cafes needing high-volume ice.
Pros
- Produces 110 lbs of ice per 24 hours
- Includes external drain pump for flexible placement
- 33 lb internal storage capacity for peak hours
- LCD panel with self-cleaning function
Cons
- 16.9-inch width exceeds standard 15-inch undercounter slots
- Produces hat cubes, not gourmet or nugget ice
- Requires 24-hour upright settling before first use
Good fit if
- You need high daily ice production for a bar
- You lack a floor drain and need a pump
- You have a 17-inch wide undercounter space
Skip if
- You require strict 15-inch width compliance
- You prefer nugget or crescent ice shapes
- You want a freestanding unit without plumbing
Verdict: EUHOMY 110 lb Undercounter Ice Maker delivers high volume for commercial settings but requires extra width and accepts hat cubes rather than gourmet shapes.
Scotsman 15-Inch Undercounter Gourmet Ice Maker
Best for: bars and compact kitchens needing precise cubes
- Daily Ice Production
- 65 lb/Day
- Storage Capacity
- 26 lb
- Ice Type
- Gourmet Cube
- Form Factor
- Undercounter
- Drain Type
- Pump Drain
- Features
- Storage Bin, Drain Pump
View on Amazon: Scotsman 15-Inch Undercounter Gourmet Ice Maker Affiliate link
This Scotsman undercounter ice maker produces 65 pounds of gourmet cubes daily with 26 pounds of storage. Its 15-inch width fits standard cabinetry, and the integrated pump drain allows placement away from gravity drains. The reversible door supports flexible installation in tight spaces. You get consistent 1-inch cubes ideal for portion control at bars or in compact prep areas where space is limited.
Pros
- Produces 65 pounds of gourmet cubes per day
- Includes built-in pump drain for flexible placement
- 15-inch width fits standard undercounter openings
- Field-reversible door for left or right swing
- 26 pounds of ice storage capacity
Cons
- 26-pound storage bin is smaller than some competitors
- No mention of digital display or app control
- Heavier build at 105 pounds
Good fit if
- You need consistent 1-inch cubes for bar service
- You require a pump drain for remote installation
- You have a 15-inch undercounter space
Skip if
- You need nugget or crushed ice
- You require a large storage bin over 26 pounds
- You want smart connectivity features
Verdict: Scotsman Undercounter Gourmet Cube 65 lb delivers precise portioning for bars and compact kitchens. It suits users who prioritize cube quality and flexible drain placement over high-volume storage.
EUHOMY 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker
Best for: High-volume ice needs with pump drainage
- Daily Ice Production
- 100 lbs
- Storage Capacity
- 24 lbs
- Ice Type
- cube
- Form Factor
- undercounter, built-in, freestanding
- Batch Time
- 10–18 minutes
- Drain Type
- electric drain pump
View on Amazon: EUHOMY 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker Affiliate link
This undercounter ice maker produces up to 100 pounds of ice per day. It includes a built-in drain pump for flexible installation without a floor drain. The 24-pound storage bin holds enough ice for busy households or small commercial spaces. You can adjust ice thickness and set a 24-hour timer via the LCD panel. It fits standard 15-inch wide cabinets.
Pros
- Produces 100 lbs of ice daily
- Includes electric drain pump
- 24 lb storage bin capacity
- Adjustable ice thickness settings
Cons
- Height is 33.6 inches, limiting under-cabinet fit
- Requires 24 hours upright before first use
- No remote control included
Good fit if
- You need high daily ice output
- You lack a floor drain
- You want adjustable ice thickness
Skip if
- You need a compact 15-inch height
- You prefer gravity drainage only
- You want remote operation
Verdict: EUHOMy 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker suits users who need high volume and flexible drainage but can accommodate its taller 33.6-inch profile.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Manitowoc 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump | VEVOR 66 lb Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker | COTLIN 15-Inch Undercounter Bullet Ice Maker | EdgeStar 15-Inch Undercounter Clear Ice Maker | EUHOMY 110 lb Undercounter Ice Maker with Drain Pump | Scotsman 15-Inch Undercounter Gourmet Ice Maker | EUHOMY 15-Inch Undercounter Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Ice Production | 52 lbs. per 24 hours | 66 Lbs/Day | 52 lbs/day | Up to 50 lbs./day | 110 lbs/24h | 65 lb/Day | 100 lbs |
| Storage Capacity | 25 lb. | 18 lbs | 26 lbs | 25 lbs | 33 lbs | 26 lb | 24 lbs |
| Ice Type | Octagon cubes | nugget ice | bullet | Clear, cubed ice | Hat cube | Gourmet Cube | cube |
| Form Factor | Undercounter | undercounter, freestanding, or built-in | undercounter | Undercounter, freestanding or built-in | Under counter, freestanding | Undercounter | undercounter, built-in, freestanding |
| Batch Time | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 10-15 minutes | not stated | 10–18 minutes |
| Drain Type | Pump kit | Drain Pump | built-in drain pump | Internal drain pump | Drain pump | Pump Drain | electric drain pump |
| Daily Capacity | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 100 lbs/Day |
| Features | Drain Pump | Drain Pump, Reversible Door | Drain Pump | Drain Pump | Storage Bin, Drain Pump | Storage Bin, Drain Pump | Self-Cleaning, Drain Pump |
| Application | not stated | Home, Kitchen | not stated | not stated | Home, Bar, Cafe | not stated | Home, Bar, Cafe |
| Color | not stated | Silver | Silver Black | Stainless Steel | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Room | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Home Bar | not stated | Home Bar |
| Placement | not stated | Commercial Use | not stated | not stated | Commercial Use, Restaurant | not stated | Commercial Use, Restaurant |
| Dimensions | 22.8 × 14.8 × 33.5 inches | 15 × 16.5 × 32.5 inches | 23 × 15 × 35 inches | 23.4 × 14.6 × 32.6 inches | 17.3 × 16.9 × 31.5 inches | 22 × 15 × 34 inches | 20.4 × 15 × 33.6 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 60.4 pounds | not stated | 76.7 pounds | not stated | 105 pounds | not stated |
| Model | SM50+K00376 | HBZB-30N | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Size | not stated | 66 Lbs/Day | not stated | not stated | not stated | Pump Drain | not stated |
Looking beyond this list? See bestarc 50a plasma cutter machine alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which 15-inch ice maker produces the most ice daily?
The EUHOMY 110 lb Undercounter Ice Maker offers the highest daily production in this group. It generates 110 lbs of hat cube ice per day. This unit measures 16.9 inches wide, requiring slightly more space than standard 15-inch models. It includes a drain pump for flexible installation. You should choose this if your primary need is maximum volume for a bar or restaurant setting.
Can I install a 15-inch ice maker without plumbing?
Most units in this list require a water supply and drain connection. However, several models include a drain pump, which allows you to route water to a nearby sink rather than requiring a direct floor drain. The Manitowoc SM-50A, COTLIN, EdgeStar, and Scotsman models all feature this pump. You must still connect the unit to a water source for continuous operation.
What is the difference between bullet ice and gourmet cubes?
Bullet ice, produced by the COTLIN model, consists of small, hollow cylindrical pieces that chill drinks quickly. Gourmet cubes, made by the Scotsman unit, are solid, precise cubes designed for slow melting in cocktails. The choice depends on your preference for drink texture. Bullet ice is ideal for rapid cooling, while gourmet cubes offer a premium presentation for mixed drinks.
Which undercounter ice maker is best for nugget ice?
The VEVOR 66 lb Undercounter Nugget Ice Maker is the only option producing nugget ice in this guide. It delivers 66 lbs of chewable ice daily. The unit is 16.5 inches wide and 15 inches deep. It features reversible doors and a drain pump. This makes it suitable for homes or kitchens that prefer the soft texture of nugget ice over hard cubes.
Do these units fit under a standard countertop?
Most listed models are designed for undercounter installation, with heights ranging from 31.5 to 35 inches. The EUHOMY 110 lb model is 31.5 inches tall, while the COTLIN is 35 inches. You must measure your specific cabinet height before purchasing. The EdgeStar and Scotsman models are approximately 32.6 to 34 inches tall, fitting most standard kitchen cabinetry.
Is clear ice better than regular ice for drinks?
The EdgeStar IB450SSP produces clear ice, which is denser and melts slower than standard ice. This preserves the flavor and temperature of your drink longer. The unit is 14.6 inches wide and includes a drain pump. If you prioritize ice quality and clarity over production speed, this model suits your needs. It is designed for built-in spaces with tight ventilation requirements.
Which ice maker is best for a home bar setup?
The EUHOMY 110 lb Undercounter Ice Maker is ideal for home bars due to its high 110 lbs daily capacity. It also features a storage bin and drain pump. The Scotsman 65 lb Gourmet Cube model is another strong choice for bars needing precise cubes. Both units support commercial use and offer flexible drainage options to fit various bar layouts.






