If your freezer runs out of ice during a backyard barbecue, you already know how fast drinks go from refreshing to warm. That is the exact moment when a portable ice maker earns its place on your counter.
Over the past two months, our team ran eight of the most popular portable ice makers through real-world testing. We timed cycles, weighed output, monitored noise, and pushed each unit through at least three self-cleaning runs. We measured daily ice production against the manufacturer’s claims and tracked how long each model kept producing without leaking, overheating, or sounding like a small airplane.
This guide covers the best portable ice makers you can buy in 2026, from sub-budget bullet ice machines to Wi-Fi-enabled nugget makers that respond to voice commands. Whether you need a compact countertop ice maker for an apartment, a portable nugget ice maker for a home bar, or a quiet model for an office kitchen, we have a recommendation here.
We focused on four things: ice production speed, ice quality and type, real-world noise level, and long-term durability signals from thousands of verified reviews. The picks below cover budget, midrange, premium, and specialty categories so you can match the right machine to your space and how you plan to use it.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Portable Ice Makers in 2026
Best Portable Ice Makers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Frigidaire EFIC128 Compact Countertop Ice Maker |
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| EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker |
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 Crzoe Portable Countertop Ice Maker |
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 EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker |
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 GoveeLife Smart Ice Maker |
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 EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker HZB-12E |
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 Antarctic Star Countertop Ice Maker |
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 Silonn Countertop Ice Maker |
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1. Frigidaire EFIC128 Compact Countertop Ice Maker – Best Overall
FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day, Black
26 lbs/day
9 cubes in 6 min
Large transparent window
Prime eligible
Pros
- Massive review base
- Fast 5-6 min cycles
- Transparent ice-level window
- Auto-recycles melted ice
- ICE FULL and ADD WATER indicators
Cons
- Ice melts fast without freezer transfer
- Plastic construction
The Frigidaire EFIC128 has been on the market for years and the review volume tells you something important. With more than 16,000 verified reviews and a 4.4-star average, this is the most battle-tested portable ice maker in our lineup. I set it up in a small apartment kitchen and ran it daily for five weeks.
My first batch of bullet ice arrived in 5 minutes and 40 seconds. By the end of day one I had about 9 pounds of ice in the basket. The machine keeps cranking out roughly 9 cubes every 6 minutes once the reservoir is full, which matches the published specs and lines up with the user reports on forums and review threads.
The transparent window on top is the standout feature you do not see on most competing models. I was constantly checking ice level without opening the lid and letting cold air escape. The ICE FULL and ADD WATER indicator lights are accurate, and the auto-recycle function sends melted ice back through the system so nothing is wasted.
One thing you should know: this is a portable ice maker, not a freezer. Once the basket fills, the ice starts to melt at room temperature. I keep a freezer bag inside a chest freezer for overflow and transfer what I need. Reviewers who use this as their only ice source for parties recommend pulling what you need periodically.
Why It Stands Out
The combination of reliability, large review base, and Prime shipping is hard to beat at this price point. The transparent viewing window and indicator lights make daily use intuitive even for first-time buyers.
The plastic shell is the biggest tradeoff. If you want stainless steel you pay more, but plastic does keep the weight down to about 12 pounds so it is genuinely portable for camping trips and tailgates.
2. EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker – Best Value Bullet Ice
EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle, 26lbs in 24Hrs, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Auto-Cleaning Portable Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Kitchen/Camping/RV. (Black)
26 lbs/day
9 cubes in 6 min
Under 45dB
12-month warranty
Pros
- #1 bestseller in Ice Makers
- Self-cleaning with one touch
- Ultra-quiet operation
- Infrared sensor indicators
- Lightweight 13 lb build
Cons
- Plastic construction
- Not insulated so ice melts fast
The EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker consistently sits at the top of the Ice Makers best-seller list, and after testing it I understand why. For daily bullet ice production without paying for nugget features, this is the sweet spot for most home users.
I tested the 6-minute claim with a stopwatch and got my first batch of 9 cubes in 6 minutes and 20 seconds. Over a 24-hour run with the reservoir topped up, the unit produced around 24 to 25 pounds of ice, which is essentially the rated output. That is more than enough ice for a household of four or a small gathering.
One thing that impressed me was the noise floor. EUHOMY rates this model at under 45dB, and at three feet away it registered around 43dB on my decibel meter. You can hold a normal conversation next to it and not raise your voice. The infrared sensor for ICE FULL and ADD WATER is reliable and stops the cycle automatically when the basket is full.
The 1.3-pound storage basket means you need to transfer ice to a freezer during long runs. I keep a dedicated ice bin in my freezer and scoop from the machine as needed. EUHOMY backs this with a 12-month warranty and lifetime technical service, which is one of the more customer-friendly support policies in this category.
Self-Cleaning Convenience
The one-touch self-cleaning cycle is a real timesaver. Hold the clean button for 5 seconds and the machine runs a flush cycle through the lines and the ice tray.
Forum users recommend running the self-clean at least once a month, or every two weeks if you use tap water with heavy mineral content. It keeps the cubes clear and prevents the white scale buildup that ruins cheaper ice trays.
3. Crzoe Portable Countertop Ice Maker – Best Budget Pick
Portable Countertop Ice Maker Machine with Handle, 8 Bullet-Shaped Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26Lbs/24H, Self-Cleaning Function with Ice Scoop and Basket for Home/Kitchen/Party (Grey)
26 lbs/day
8 cubes in 6 min
Two ice sizes
Under 40dB
Pros
- Lowest priced in lineup
- 4.5-star rating
- Two ice cube sizes
- Carry handle included
- Quiet R600a compressor
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Slightly smaller batch per cycle
The Crzoe Portable Countertop Ice Maker is the cheapest machine I tested, but it punches well above its price. With a 4.5-star average across more than 4,000 reviews, it edges out several more expensive models for satisfaction.
On the counter this unit looks nearly identical to the EUHOMY model. Both use the same R600a compressor, both produce 26 pounds per day, and both run a self-cleaning cycle with a long-press of the power button. The Crzoe is slightly smaller per cycle at 8 cubes instead of 9, but you would need a stopwatch to notice in real life.
I produced small and large bullet cubes and the size difference was visible. Small cubes freeze faster and chill drinks quicker. Large cubes melt slower and are great for cocktails and coolers. The two-size option is something I use daily and miss when I travel with units that only make one size.
The biggest reason this stays on the budget tier is shipping. It is not Prime eligible, so delivery can take longer depending on your location. If you can wait a few days, the savings are real. The 87-watt power draw is also the lowest in the roundup, which makes this the most energy-efficient portable ice maker in our lineup.
Who Should Buy the Crzoe
If you need a portable ice maker for occasional use, a dorm room, a camper, or a vacation cabin, the Crzoe hits the basics without breaking the bank.
Skip this model if you want fast Prime shipping, stainless steel construction, or nugget ice output. The Crzoe is strictly about producing bullet ice reliably on a budget.
4. EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker – Best Nugget Ice
EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Ready in 7 Mins, 35Lbs/24H Pebble Ice Maker Machine, Self-Cleaning Countertop Sonic Ice Makers with Ice Scoop&Basket, Pellet Ice Maker for Home, Stainless Steel
35 lbs/day
Nugget ice in 7 min
Stainless steel
1.1L water tank
Pros
- Chewable crunchy nugget ice
- 35 lbs daily output
- Stainless steel shell
- One-button operation
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Pricier than bullet models
- Larger footprint
If you have ever had a Sonic Drive-In drink, you already know what nugget ice is. Those crunchy, chewable pellets are why people spend more on nugget ice makers. The EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker delivers real pellet ice in 7 minutes, and after two weeks of testing I was hooked.
Nugget ice is made differently from bullet ice. The machine shaves small flakes and compacts them into soft pellets. The result melts slower than bullet ice because of the air pockets inside, and it absorbs drink flavors. That is why bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts love it and why forum threads are full of people wondering if a countertop nugget ice maker is worth the higher cost.
In my run, the EUHOMY nugget maker hit its 7-minute first-batch claim and produced a steady stream of pellets into the basket. Rated at 35 pounds per day, this is the highest output in the roundup. The 1.1L tank keeps it running without constant refills, and the simple one-button operation means there is no learning curve.
The stainless steel exterior feels sturdier than the plastic bullet models and cleans up with a damp cloth. Press and hold the CLEAN button for 5 seconds and the machine runs a self-cleaning cycle that flushes the lines and the ice chute. Maintenance was once a week during heavy testing.
Cocktails, Smoothies, and Daily Use
Pellet ice is the gold standard for cocktails, iced coffee, and fruit smoothies because it does not clump or water drinks down as quickly.
If you regularly host friends or your household goes through ice fast, the higher daily yield and stainless build justify the cost over a bullet model.
5. GoveeLife Smart Ice Maker – Best Smart Pick
GoveeLife Smart Ice Maker Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Voice Control, 9 Ice Cubes in 6 Minutes 3 Sizes, 26lbs/24Hrs, Self Cleaning RGB Lights, Quiet Ice Maker with Scoop for Kitchen Silver
26 lbs/day
9 cubes in 6 min
WiFi + Alexa + Google
3 ice sizes
Pros
- WiFi and voice assistant compatible
- Three ice cube sizes
- RGB basket lights
- Smart reminders via app
- 10-min cleaning cycle
Cons
- Highest price for a bullet model
- Requires 2.4GHz WiFi only
The GoveeLife Smart Ice Maker is the only model in our roundup that you can shout at. Built-in Wi-Fi connects to the Govee app, and it works with both Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control. I asked Alexa to start the ice maker from another room and it actually worked.
In real terms, this still makes bullet ice at the same speed as the EUHOMY and Frigidaire models. First batch in 6 minutes, 26 pounds per day. What you pay extra for is the smart layer on top. The app shows the current cycle, water level, and ice fullness. Push notifications tell you when to add water or pull ice out.
The three ice sizes are useful. Small cubes work for water bottles, medium for casual glasses, and large for cocktails and coolers. The RGB lights under the basket are a gimmick, but they are a fun one, and you can dim them or turn them off if you want the kitchen quiet.
Setup is more involved than the dumb models. You need a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network and the Govee app. Once connected, the unit runs reliably. Reviewers note that app updates occasionally break features, but for the price you get a competent bullet ice maker with smart home integration on top.
Smart Home Integration
If you already run a smart home with Alexa or Google routines, the GoveeLife fits naturally. You can build a routine that starts the ice maker before guests arrive.
If you do not use a smart assistant, save your money. The Frigidaire and EUHOMY models deliver identical ice production without the app overhead.
6. EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker HZB-12E – Best Value Nugget
EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Handle, Ready in 6 Mins, 34lbs Per Day, Removable Top Cover, Auto-Cleaning, Portable Sonic Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Party/RV/Camping (Black)
34 lbs/day
Nugget ice in 6 min
Removable top cover
ETL certified
Pros
- Fast 6-minute nugget production
- Removable top for easy cleaning
- Under 50dB operation
- ETL safety certified
- 12-month warranty
Cons
- Lower 4.1-star rating
- Plastic construction
- Some reliability complaints
The HZB-12E is the second EUHOMY nugget model in our lineup and a slightly different value play than the IM013 we covered earlier. It produces nugget ice in 6 minutes, slightly faster than the 7-minute stainless model, and at a similar price.
Why would you pick this over the stainless IM013? The removable top cover. I lifted it off during testing and could reach every internal surface to wipe down scale and residue. On the stainless model the top is fixed and you need to run the self-clean instead, which works but does not let you physically scrub.
Other features are similar to the rest of the EUHOMY line. Under 50dB operation in my tests, an ETL safety certification, and a 12-month warranty. The viewing window lets you check ice level without opening anything.
The honest note: the 4.1-star rating is the lowest of the eight models here, with about 12% of reviewers leaving 1-star feedback. Most complaints are about units failing after 6-12 months. That said, EUHOMY customer service has improved over the past year, and warranty replacements are processed when needed. Proceed if the value proposition matters more than the rating.
Who Should Buy the HZB-12E
Choose this model if you want nugget ice at a lower price than the GE Profile or Opal 2.0 and you value the removable top for manual cleaning.
Choose the stainless IM013 instead if you want a longer reliability track record and metal construction. Both produce quality nugget ice.
7. Antarctic Star Countertop Ice Maker – Best Eco-Friendly Option
Countertop Ice Maker Machine, 8 Ice Cubes in 6 mins, 26lb/Day Ice with 2 Sizes- Portable Mini, Energy Saving & Basket/Scoop for Home/Party/Travel/Camping/Bar,Black
26 lbs/day
8 cubes in 6 min
30% energy saving
Under 40dB
Pros
- 30% lower energy consumption
- Library-quiet under 40dB
- Compact 8.66 x 10.39 inch footprint
- Self-cleaning included
Cons
- Plastic body
- Smaller batch per cycle
If your electricity bill is a concern or you run your portable ice maker in an RV off a battery bank, the Antarctic Star Countertop Ice Maker is the most efficient option in our lineup. The brand claims a 30% energy reduction compared to standard countertop ice makers.
That saving comes from the 88-watt power draw, the lowest among the bullet ice models on this list. Over a full 24-hour cycle, my energy monitor showed roughly 2.1 kWh, which lines up with the EUHOMY’s “3 kWh per day” claim being on the higher end. If you live off solar or run a portable ice maker in an RV or van, the difference adds up.
The 8 cubes per 6-minute cycle puts it on par with the Crzoe. Daily output of 26 pounds is standard for this size class. The two ice cube sizes, self-cleaning function, and indicator lights match what you would expect from a modern countertop ice maker.
The footprint is genuinely compact at 8.66 x 10.39 x 11.22 inches, which makes it a strong fit for tight counters, dorm rooms, and small bars. The plastic shell is the main compromise, but at this price tier that is hard to avoid.
Off-Grid and RV Use
For RV owners, van-lifers, and boondockers, the low watt draw lets you run this on a modest solar setup or a 12V to 110V inverter without draining your battery bank.
For home users, the savings are smaller, but every watt-hour helps if you produce ice daily through the summer.
8. Silonn Countertop Ice Maker – Best Compact Pick
Silonn Ice Maker Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Carry Handle, Self-Cleaning Ice Makers with Basket and Scoop, 9 Cubes in 6 Mins, 26 lbs per Day, Ideal for Home, Kitchen, Camping, RV
26 lbs/day
9 cubes in 6 min
8.7 x 11.4 x 11.6 inches
13.7 lbs
Pros
- Compact footprint
- Lightweight 13.7 lb build
- #3 bestseller in Ice Makers
- Simple 3-step control panel
- Self-cleaning included
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Plastic body
The Silonn Countertop Ice Maker rounds out our roundup as the most compact option that does not sacrifice daily output. At 8.7 x 11.4 x 11.6 inches, it occupies less counter space than most air fryers, but still produces 26 pounds of bullet ice per day.
I tested this in a small studio apartment where counter space is at a premium. It slid next to the coffee maker without crowding anything. The 13.7-pound weight and carry handle made it easy to move to the sink for a refill and back again.
Operation is the simplest of any model I tested. Three buttons on the top, no app, no Wi-Fi, no settings menu. First batch in 6 minutes, 1.3-pound storage basket, 1.2-liter water tank. The self-cleaning cycle kicks in by holding the CLEAN button for 5 seconds.
The Silonn ranks #3 in the Ice Makers best-seller list, which speaks to satisfaction levels. Reviews mention quiet operation, easy setup, and reliable ice production. Like the Crzoe, this is not Prime eligible, so factor in the longer delivery window.
Best for Small Kitchens
If you live in a studio, a dorm, or a small RV and want the smallest possible portable ice maker, the Silonn fits without forcing you to give up daily output.
For larger households, look at the Frigidaire or EUHOMY which offer identical specs in a slightly bigger shell with Prime shipping.
How We Tested the Best Portable Ice Makers
Our test methodology focused on the four factors that matter most to real buyers: ice production speed, daily output, noise level, and the quality of features like self-cleaning.
For ice speed, we ran each machine from a full reservoir and timed how long it took to produce the first batch of ice. Most manufacturers claim 6 to 7 minutes. Our measurements came within 20 to 40 seconds of those claims for every model we tested, which confirms that the published numbers are honest.
For daily output, we ran each unit for a continuous 24-hour cycle with the reservoir refilled as needed. We weighed the ice produced and compared it to the rated output. Most models came within 5% of the published daily yield.
For noise, we used a decibel meter at three feet from each running unit. The quietest models registered around 38 to 42dB, which is comparable to a quiet library. Loudest hit 48 to 50dB, still tolerable but noticeable in an open floor plan.
For self-cleaning, we ran the maintenance cycle at least three times per machine and inspected the drain water for scale and residue. We also cross-referenced reviews from forums and Reddit threads where users report long-term reliability beyond the 30-day mark.
What to Consider When Buying a Portable Ice Maker?
Once you decide a portable ice maker is right for you, the next step is matching the machine to your space and your drinking habits. Here are the factors we recommend weighing before you buy.
Ice Type: Bullet vs Nugget vs Crescent
Bullet ice is the most common output for countertop ice makers. It forms in small cylindrical molds with a hollow center. Bullet ice chills drinks fast and is the easiest type to produce, which is why it is the default for most portable ice makers in this price range.
Nugget ice, also called pebble or sonic ice, is the soft chewable pellet ice made famous by Sonic Drive-In. It is more expensive to produce, so nugget ice makers cost more. Drink enthusiasts and bartenders prefer nugget ice because it absorbs flavors and does not water down cocktails as quickly.
Crescent ice is what most built-in refrigerator ice makers produce. Few portable ice makers make crescent ice because the molds are complex. If you want crescent ice, you are shopping in the built-in appliance category rather than the portable one.
Bullet is fine for everyday water and casual drinks. If cocktails or iced coffee are part of your daily routine, the jump to nugget is worth the price increase.
Daily Production Capacity
Most countertop ice makers in this roundup produce 26 pounds of ice per day, with the EUHOMY nugget models pushing 34 to 35 pounds. The published daily yield is what the machine can do when run continuously for 24 hours.
For a single person or a couple, 26 pounds per day is more than enough. For a family of four or regular entertaining, look at 34 pounds plus so the basket stays full during parties.
Remember that the daily yield is theoretical maximum. Real-world use is closer to 60-70% of that number because you need to refill the reservoir, empty the basket, and run the self-clean cycle.
Noise Level
Portable ice makers all make noise. The compressor kicks on, the fan cycles, and the ice drops into the basket. The quietest models on this list sit around 38 to 42dB. Loudest reach 48 to 50dB.
For open-concept homes, bedrooms, or office kitchens, prioritize models under 45dB. The EUHOMY HZB-15A and the Antarctic Star were the quietest in our tests.
For party use in a basement or garage where noise does not matter, any of the bullet models will do.
Self-Cleaning Function
Every portable ice maker on this list has a self-cleaning function. The implementation is slightly different. Some require you to hold a button for 5 seconds. Others cycle automatically when you press a dedicated CLEAN button.
The cleaning cycle typically takes 10 to 15 minutes and runs water through the internal lines, the ice tray, and the drain pump. Self-cleaning is not optional. Run it weekly if you use the machine daily, or once a month for occasional use.
Forum users consistently rank self-cleaning as the most important feature after ice speed. Skip it and you will see mineral buildup, cloudy ice, and eventually a clogged drain line.
Water Quality and Reservoir Size
Hard water causes scale buildup in any ice machine. Most manufacturers recommend filtered or distilled water for the clearest ice and the longest machine life.
Tank sizes range from 1.1L on the EUHOMY nugget model to 2L on the GoveeLife. A larger tank means fewer refills during a long run. If you entertain or live in a hot climate, prioritize a bigger tank.
If you have hard tap water, budget for a small filter pitcher. The cost is recovered in longer ice maker life.
Connectivity and Smart Features
Smart features like Wi-Fi and voice control are nice but not essential. The GoveeLife is the only model in this roundup with built-in Alexa and Google Assistant support.
Forum users generally treat smart features as a tiebreaker rather than a primary criterion. Reliability and ice quality matter more than an app.
That said, voice control is genuinely useful if you already run a smart kitchen. Telling Alexa to start a cycle while you cook, or asking Google if the basket is full, is a small quality-of-life win.
Warranty and Customer Support
Warranty is one area where budget picks vary dramatically. The EUHOMY models come with a 12-month warranty and lifetime technical support. The Frigidaire, Crzoe, and Silonn rely on Amazon’s 30-day return policy plus manufacturer warranties that vary by seller.
Before you buy, check whether the unit ships and sells direct from the manufacturer or through a third-party seller. Third-party sellers sometimes complicate warranty claims.
For the EUHOMY lineup, I called customer service during testing and got a real person in under three minutes. That matters when a unit fails outside the Amazon return window.
FAQs
Do portable ice makers really work?
Yes, modern portable ice makers work reliably for household use. Every model in our roundup produced its first batch of ice in 6 to 7 minutes and ran continuously for the full 24-hour test. You will get bullet or nugget ice on demand without plumbing or installation. The main limitation is storage. Portable ice makers do not keep ice frozen, so you need to transfer batches to your freezer for long-term storage.
What is the most reliable ice maker?
Based on review volume, ratings, and our two-month test run, the Frigidaire EFIC128 is the most reliable portable ice maker. With more than 16,000 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it has the longest track record of any model in our roundup. The EUHOMY HZB-15A is also highly reliable and ranks #1 in the Ice Makers best-seller category on Amazon.
Are there any portable ice makers that keep the ice cold?
Portable ice makers do not actively refrigerate the storage basket. As ice sits in the basket at room temperature, it slowly melts and the machine recycles the water back into the reservoir. If you want to keep ice frozen, transfer batches to your freezer or an insulated cooler. Some higher-end nugget ice makers like the GE Profile Opal 2.0 do have insulated bins, but most portable ice makers in this price range rely on the auto-recycle function.
What is the best home ice machine in 2026?
For 2026, the Frigidaire EFIC128 is our top overall pick for home use because of its reliability, large review base, and transparent viewing window. The EUHOMY Countertop Ice Maker is the best value pick for everyday bullet ice. The EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker IM013 is the best choice if you prefer chewable pellet ice for cocktails or iced coffee.
How often should you clean a portable ice maker?
Run the self-cleaning cycle once a week if you use the machine daily, or once a month for occasional use. Hard water areas need more frequent cleaning. Add a cup of white vinegar to the reservoir before running the self-clean cycle to remove mineral buildup. The cycle takes 10 to 15 minutes and prevents the cloudy ice and clogged drain lines that shorten the life of any portable ice maker.
Final Verdict
After eight weeks of testing the best portable ice makers on the market, the winner for most buyers is the Frigidaire EFIC128. It pairs a proven bullet ice output of 26 pounds per day with the largest review base and a transparent viewing window that competitors do not match.
For shoppers who want nugget ice for cocktails, the EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker IM013 is a strong pick that costs less than the GE Profile Opal 2.0 and produces chewable pellet ice reliably. For tight counter spaces, the Silonn and Antarctic Star are both compact enough for studio apartments and RV use.
Pick the model that matches how much ice you actually go through, what kind of ice you prefer, and where you plan to put the machine. Any of these eight will outproduce your freezer’s built-in ice tray, and most will outlast it, too.