Introduction
Cocktail ice can be a complicated topic. Some people just use the same old ice from the kitchen freezer. Others buy specialty ice molds that need to be filled individually after each use. In addition to those two options, countertop ice makers have become very popular. In this article, I’ll review 3 popular cocktail ice makers, all of which should satisfy most peoples’ needs.
If you’re not ready to spend the money on a counter top model or prefer larger cubes or balls than your kitchen freezer can make, specialty ice molds are your answer. Here are my 3 Best Ice Molds for Bourbon and other Cocktails.
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Sharper Image Countertop Ice Maker
My first choice is the Sharper Image Countertop Ice maker. It is one of the best cocktail ice makers on the market today and is also the one I use on a daily basis.
Pros
- Fast – From empty to first ice cubes take s just fifteen minutes, with the ability to produce 25lbs per 24 hours.
- Cube Size – Select from two sizes depending on needs.
- Capacity – Depending on pace of use, this unit will support 2-4 people with unending ice.
- Price – With its cost being right in the middle of available options, the Sharper Image Portable Ice Maker provides great value with a stylish appearance.
Cons
- Noise – Most portable ice makers are noisy, and this one is no exception. Keep it in a closet or behind a bar with some background music or other distraction and it won’t be a problem.
- Capacity…again – While this unit will keep up with a few people, it would struggle to keep ice for a larger gathering or party.
Rating
Amazon has this unit rated 3.5 stars. I think that’s too low. Great value combines with great performance to provide what I think is an excellent product. 4.5 stars for me.
Frigidaire EFIC452-SS Countertop Ice Maker
The Frigidaire EFIC452-SS is another solid choice of countertop cocktail ice maker. It makes smaller cubes rather than bullets, which is a fine choice for many people. I think it comes down to personal preference. Either way, this is a solid choice.
Pros
- Fast – From empty to first ice cubes take s just fifteen minutes, with the ability to produce 40lbs per 24 hours.
- Clear Ice – Produces perfectly clear cubes that look great in your glass
- Capacity – Store up to 2.4lbs at a time in the large reservoir
- Brand – Frigidaire has been around a long time and has kept a loyal following for decades.
Cons
- Noise – Most portable ice makers are noisy, and this one is no exception. Keep it in a closet or behind a bar with some background music or other distraction and it won’t be a problem.
- Capacity…again – While this unit will keep up with a few people, it would struggle to keep ice for a larger gathering or party.
- Price – Currently around $180, this isn’t the cheapest unit, but it isn’t the most expensive either.
- Melting Time – I’m not sure if its the size of the cubes or that this unit doesn’t make them as cold as some of the others, the cubes just don’t seem to last as long.
Rating
An excellent choice for any basement bar, man cave, or she shed. The clear cubes are a huge aesthetic win, but the quicker melting cubes can be a drawback for some. 4 stars for me.
Silonn Countertop Ice Maker
The Silonn Countertop Ice Maker is last on my list, for no other reason than one of them had to be. Like the Sharper Image, the Silonn makes bullet ice in two sizes, making for another great option for a countertop cocktail ice maker.
Pros
- Fast – Just 6 minutes to make 9 cubes!
- Size – Two size options for the bullet-shaped cubes allows for the fastest production, or just a little longer wait for a longer lasting cube.
- Capacity – Store up to 2.4lbs at a time in the large reservoir.
- Price – At under $100 for the black model, the Silonn Countertop Ice Maker is a very budget-friendly option.
Cons
- Noise – Most portable ice makers are noisy, and this one is no exception, but at under 35dB, its quite tolerable. A little background noise or music should cover it nicely.
- Appearance – Purely subjective, but I prefer the more refined look of some of the stainless steel options.
- Production capacity – 9 cubes per cycle is acceptable, but you might have to wait for a second cycle to actually make more than one cocktail.
Rating
The Silonn Countertop Ice Maker is a great option for any budget-minded shopper. Definitely one to keep an eye on. 4 stars.
Final Thoughts
In a world where consumers demand ever higher levels of quality an creativity in their products, regular old freezer ice has little place in homemade cocktails.
Specialty ice molds are a great options, but for more sustainable, refillable options, countertop ice makers are hard to beat, and they continue to get better.
If you would like to experience any of our amazing creations, many of which are made with items reviewed on this site, check out our shop at thesillygooselife.com!
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