If you've been relying on a conventional refrigerator, you’re likely frustrated by how slowly it produces ice. This may have led you to explore additional options, like a portable ice maker, either as a supplement or alternative. However, you might still be unsure how portable ice makers work or how they compare to refrigerator ice makers.

This article explores various types of ice makers, helping you understand how each can be used in different settings to suit your needs. Learn: 

• How portable ice makers work compared to regular fridges 
• Which features of portable ice makers have made them so popular 
• Who uses portable ice makers

Maybe a portable ice maker might make an appearance in your home soon!

Portable Ice Makers: Faster and More Convenient Than Conventional Refrigerators

Old-Fashioned Refrigerator Ice

That’s because conventional refrigerators use a process called convection to make ice. A water valve releases water in a mold, which holds about six to nine cubes. Then the water is slowly frozen using convection, which relies on heat to conduct cold air over the ice mold. 

About an hour after the mold is filled, the water is finally solidified into ice before being emptied into a receptacle. Then the entire process starts again…all to get just six or so cubes. Whether you're hosting a party, prepping for a road trip, or packing a cooler for a day at the beach, waiting hours for more ice can be frustrating. Worse, you might run out altogether, forcing you to buy bagged ice from the store, which many find to be both costly and inconvenient. 

The Modern Technology of Portable Ice Makers

When you use a portable ice maker, the freezing time is considerably shorter. The physical process of conduction is used instead of convection. Water begins freezing in the ice cube mold nearly instantaneously because portable ice makers leverage the superior cooling power of the appliance’s evaporator coils. 

You can create ice in as little as five to 15 minutes with a portable ice maker. That translates to three to four dozen cubes per hour or up to 50 pounds of ice per day. With this capacity, you’ll always have plenty of ice on hand, eliminating the need for trips to the grocery store mid-party or game. 

Beyond Speed: Portable Ice Maker Features 

Rapid ice making is just one benefit of portable ice makers. Another is in the appliance name itself: portable. 

The Ultimate in Portability

Users of portable ice makers love that they’re not tied to the kitchen to generate ice. Anywhere you have AC power — whether by standard outlet, generator, or inverter — you can use a portable ice maker. So, you can enjoy making ice on your deck or in your backyard. Take your portable ice maker on the road with you in your RV, or bring it camping. The sky’s the limit when you’re using a portable ice maker.

 
You might be wondering how portable ice makers work without a dedicated water line like refrigerators have. All you need to do is manually fill the water compartment with the water of your choice. So if you’re outdoors or traveling, bottled water is just fine. Simply have enough ready to make the ice you desire, and you’re good to go. 

Easy to Keep Nearby

There are other pluses to this method of making ice, too. Many portable ice makers are available in compact countertop models. You get big results from an appliance that’s about the size of a bread maker or an air fryer. Many models can be left on the counter all the time, so you always have easy ice at hand. And with portable ice makers fabricated with stainless steel, black, and white exteriors, you can find one to match your decor or personal style. 

No Power Hogging

Portable ice makers are also energy efficient. Because these appliances harness conduction rather than convection, they don’t draw a ton of power. You can use your portable ice maker all year round without worrying about hiking up your electric bill. The same can’t be said for all conventional refrigerators, even small ones that fit under counters or in RV kitchens. 

Energy efficiency also stems from the fact that portable ice makers don’t keep ice cold the way refrigerator ice compartments do. Users don’t find this to be an issue, though, as they’re usually using the ice so fast, it doesn’t matter. For ice that needs to last longer, you can transfer it to a cooler or other insulated container. The convenience of fast ice anywhere far outweighs a portable ice maker’s lack of long-term ice storage. 

You can, of course, store ice from your portable ice maker in your refrigerator’s freezer compartment. There’s no need to choose between the two when you’re around the house. Many people use a portable ice maker to supplement the one in their fridge to get the best of both worlds. 

Improved Ice Quality and Variety

Portable ice makers produce a better quality of ice as well. The ultra fast process creates ice cubes in a layer-over-layer technique, which prevents the formation of air bubbles and ice impurities.

We use the word “cube” when describing the ice made by portable ice makers. But many models today offer a variety of ice shapes, including larger and smaller cubes, nuggets, and bullet-shaped ice. Get the type of ice you need based on your entertaining or beverage needs. 

Half cubes are ideal for iced tea, coffee beverages, and cocktails, as they don’t water down drinks too quickly. Likewise, a whisky ice maker produces cubes that are perfect for preserving the taste of single malts and bourbons. 

Larger cubes can be great for icing bottles of soda and beer in a bucket, especially on hot days. Kids and ice chewers (hey, we know you’re out there!) prefer nugget ice because they’re a bit smaller and softer. 

Portable Ice Makers Are for Everyone

Who else uses portable ice makers? 

• Large families, especially with kids
• Campers and outdoor enthusiasts
• Schools and summer camps
• Sports teams and recreational organizations
• Restaurants, bistros, and cafes
• Coffee carts and food trucks
• Farmers market vendors
• Cooking and beverage bloggers and vloggers
• Small event caterers

If you’re searching for the perfect wedding, housewarming, or birthday gift, a portable ice maker should be at the top of your list. It’s a great addition to any home, making it ideal for outdoor kitchens, basements, dorm rooms, and even wine or beer tasting cellars. 

Check Out Newair’s Selection of Portable Ice Makers

Sold on the benefits? Newair offers a variety of portable ice makers with different features to match your ice-making needs. From space-saving countertop models to professional-grade undercounter ice makers for high-volume scenarios, there’s something for everyone in a range of price points. 

Check out our portable ice maker selection online. You can see our best selling and newest models and use filters to find the perfect one for you. 

Editor’s Note: This blog post has been recently updated to enhance readability.