The Advantages of Undercounter Ice Makers Over Countertop Models

The Advantages of Undercounter and Built-In Ice Makers Over Countertop Models

When it comes to hosting gatherings, crafting the perfect cocktail, or simply enjoying a refreshing drink, having a reliable supply of quality ice is often an overlooked essential.

That’s where an ice maker comes in.

For residential use, there are two main types of ice makers: countertop and undercounter/built-in.

While countertop ice makers are a popular choice for their affordability and portability, undercounter and built-in ice makers such as the ZLINE Touchstone Gourmet Ice Maker and the ZLINE Touchstone Clear Cube Ice Maker offer a host of superior benefits that make them a worthwhile investment for homeowners, entertainers, and beverage enthusiasts alike.

In this blog, we’ll explore why undercounter and built-in ice makers outperform countertop models in terms of performance, convenience, and long-term value.

A woman scooping ice from inside a ZLINE Touchstone Ice Maker

1. Higher Ice Production & Storage for Entertaining

One of the standout advantages of undercounter and built-in ice makers is their impressive ice production and storage capacity.

Countertop models typically produce around 26 pounds of ice per day and have limited storage, making them suitable for small households or occasional use.

In contrast, high-quality undercounter and built-in models such as the ZLINE Touchstone Ice Makers can produce over 75 pounds of ice daily, with 26 pounds of storage to keep up with high demand.

Picture hosting a summer pool party where ice is in constant demand. With an undercounter or built-in ice maker, you’ll never run out of ice, ensuring your guests’ drinks stay cold and refreshing throughout the event.

Plus, ZLINE Touchstone Ice Makers are outdoor-compatible and perfect for poolside patio installation, meaning you don’t even have to run to the kitchen for ice.

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2. Consistently Clear, Slow-Melting Ice for Premium Drinks

For cocktail enthusiasts and connoisseurs of premium beverages, ice quality matters.

Undercounter and built-in ice makers use advanced filtration systems and precise freezing processes to produce crystal-clear, slow-melting ice.

This enhances the presentation of drinks and prevents dilution, preserving the flavor of your favorite spirits and beverages.

Countertop models, on the other hand, often produce cloudy ice due to impurities and rapid, non-directional freezing, which can detract from the overall drinking experience. In fact, ice that melts too quickly can drastically change the flavor of even the most basic cocktail.

Home bartenders and whiskey lovers will appreciate the pristine clarity of ice from built-in models, which adds a touch of sophistication to their craft cocktails or neat pours.

Both the Touchstone Gourmet Ice Maker and the Touchstone Clear Cube Ice Maker have six different cube sizes, meaning you can find the perfect ice for any drink and occasion.

Clear Cube Ice (left) compared with Gourmet Ice (right).

3. Seamless Integration Without Cluttering Counter Space

One of the most appealing features of undercounter and built-in ice makers is their ability to blend into your kitchen, bar, or entertainment area.

Unlike countertop models, which take up valuable surface space, undercounter units are discreetly installed beneath counters or within cabinetry.

This not only frees up counter space but also creates a clean, organized, and aesthetically pleasing environment.

In a luxury kitchen or outdoor entertaining space, maximizing counter space is essential for meal prep and presentation. An undercounter ice maker ensures your space remains functional and visually uncluttered.

For even further integration, you can opt for a panel ready Touchstone Ice Maker and match your ice maker with your cabinetry.

Autograph Edition Touchstone Panel Ready Ice Maker

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4. Continuous Ice Supply Without Manual Refills

Undercounter and built-in ice makers are connected directly to a water line, eliminating the need for manual refills.

This continuous ice supply can save the time and effort spent on manually refilling ice trays. This is particularly useful during gatherings or on hot summer days. You'll always have ice on hand for drinks, smoothies, and cooling without the need to fill and freeze ice trays.

Countertop models, by contrast, require frequent refilling of water reservoirs, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming.

To save even more time, ZLINE Touchstone Ice Makers include a professional-style stainless steel ice scoop and a specialized 30-minute cleaning cycle that is activated with the simple touch of a button.

Stainless Steel Ice Scoop inside Touchstone Ice Maker

5. Long-Term Durability & Investment Value

When it comes to durability, ZLINE Touchstone Ice Makers are built to last.

These models feature a fully-wrapped 430-grade stainless steel construction, ENERGY STAR® Rated efficiency, and robust components that are ready for frequent use.

Countertop models, typically made from plastic materials, are less durable and may require replacement sooner.

An outdoor kitchen with a built-in ice maker can endure harsh weather conditions and heavy use, making it a long-term investment that adds value to your home.

For added durability, ZLINE Touchstone Ice Makers come with a factory-installed drain pump that prevents water from accumulating inside the ice maker and gives more installation flexibility.

Touchstone Ice Makers VS Countertop Ice Makers

Feature	Touchstone Ice Makers	Countertop Ice Makers
Ice Production	66+ lbs per day	~26 lbs per day
Storage Capacity	26 lbs	Limited (small bin, melts quickly)
Ice Clarity	Crystal-clear, slow-melting ice	Cloudy, melts quickly
Installation	Built-in, requires plumbing	Plug-and-play, no plumbing required
Convenience	Continuous supply, no refilling	Manual water refills needed
Space Efficiency	Installed undercounter, which saves space	Takes up counter space
Durability	Stainless steel construction, outdoor-approved	Plastic-heavy, may need frequent replacement
Best For	Entertainers, home bars, luxury kitchens, high ice demand	Small households, renters, occasional use

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ZLINE Touchstone Ice Maker in an outdoor patio area.

Conclusion

While countertop ice makers may be a budget-friendly option for small-scale needs, undercounter and built-in models such as the ZLINE Touchstone Ice Makers offer unparalleled advantages for those seeking a premium ice-making solution.

From higher ice production and superior ice quality to seamless integration and long-term durability, these models meet the demands of entertaining, beverage crafting, and everyday convenience.

If you’re looking to elevate your home bar, kitchen, or entertainment space, an undercounter or built-in ice maker is a worthwhile investment that delivers both functionality and style.

By choosing an undercounter or built-in ice maker, you’re not just buying an appliance—you’re investing in a lifestyle upgrade that enhances your home and impresses your guests. Cheers to that!

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