Should You Buy the Totnz Countertop Ice Maker? A Detailed Review

Description

Features

The portable ice maker with the basket and scoop is packed with features that make it a great addition to any home, kitchen, or even during camping trips. Its compact design, measuring only 8.74 x 11.42 x 11.57 inches, makes it a perfect fit for smaller spaces like countertops or RVs. I found the carry handle particularly handy when moving it from the kitchen to the patio for outdoor gatherings. The self-cleaning functionality is a game changer. By holding the “CLEAN” button for five seconds, the machine cleans itself in just 30 minutes, which takes away the hassle of manual maintenance. The option to produce small or large ice cubes is also convenient, especially when making drinks for different preferences.

Ice Quality & Type

The ice it produces is bullet-shaped, which is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical. These cubes are smooth and don’t have hard edges, making them gentle on glassware. I tested this with a variety of drinks—iced coffee, cocktails, and even water—and the ice cubes melted at a consistent rate without diluting the beverages too quickly. Both the small and large options worked well depending on the drink. My kids loved the smaller cubes for their juice, while I preferred the larger ones for my iced tea.

Key Benefits

• The compact size makes it easy to store and transport.
• Produces ice quickly, within just six minutes for the first batch.
• Includes a self-cleaning function for effortless maintenance.
• Offers two sizes of bullet-shaped ice cubes for versatility.

Ease of Use

Using this ice maker is as simple as it gets. The control panel is intuitive and straightforward. To start, I filled the reservoir with water, turned it on, and selected the size of the ice cubes. It even has indicator lights to alert when the water needs refilling or when the ice basket is full. The included scoop makes it easy to serve ice, and the basket can hold about 1.3 pounds, which was more than enough for my family during dinner.

Ice Production Speed

This is where the ice maker truly shines. It produces nine cubes in just six minutes, and I was amazed at how quickly it could churn out ice. Over the course of a day, it can yield up to 26 pounds of ice. I tested this during a weekend barbecue, and it kept up with demand effortlessly. Watching it work so efficiently felt like having my own little ice factory in the kitchen.

Noise Levels

While the machine is generally quiet, it does emit a faint hum during operation. If you’re in a silent room, you’ll definitely hear it, but it’s not intrusive. Compared to my previous ice maker, this one is noticeably quieter. However, if you’re sensitive to noise, it might still be worth considering. My husband didn’t mind the sound at all during his poker nights, but I did notice it a bit while working in the same room.

Durability

Constructed with high-quality materials, this ice maker feels sturdy. Weighing just under 14 pounds, it’s lightweight yet well-built. After several weeks of daily use, there’s been no sign of wear or performance issues. The stainless finish seems resistant to scratches and smudges, which is a big plus in a busy household. Even with frequent handling, it still looks as good as new.

Warranty

The product includes a manufacturer’s warranty, which adds peace of mind. While I haven’t had any issues requiring support yet, knowing there’s coverage in case something goes wrong is reassuring. It’s always good to double-check the specifics of the warranty upon purchase, especially for an appliance like this.

Disadvantages

• The unit does produce a slight hum, which may bother noise-sensitive individuals.
• Ice starts melting in the basket if it’s not used immediately, although the water gets recycled back for new ice production.
• The storage capacity could be larger for hosting bigger parties.

Competitive Options

When compared to other ice makers in the same range, this one holds its own quite well. I previously owned a bulkier model that took longer to produce ice and didn’t have a self-cleaning feature. In contrast, this compact ice maker is faster and much easier to maintain. However, some higher-end models offer larger storage capacities and quieter operation, which might appeal to heavy users. That said, for the price and features, this machine strikes an excellent balance.

Worth Every Penny

Although I won’t mention the exact price, I will say that this ice maker offers incredible value for its cost. It’s affordable, yet it doesn’t compromise on essential features like quick ice production and portability. Given its reliability and ease of use, I’d say it’s a smart investment for anyone who frequently entertains or simply enjoys having fresh ice on hand. There are more expensive options out there, but this one delivers where it counts without breaking the bank.

Additional information