Which makes ice faster?

COWSAR states nugget ice in as little as 7 minutes. Antarctic Star buyers report ice within minutes, but the brand does not give a first-ice time. Both reach roughly 33 to 34 lb per day.

Which holds more water?

The Antarctic Star, at 1.8L versus about 1.1L for the COWSAR. Its 1.5L ice basket also holds more finished ice, so you refill less often.

Is the Antarctic Star worth the extra $8.83?

Yes if you want the bigger tank, the bigger basket and one-touch dispensing. If you mainly want cheap nugget ice in a narrow spot, the COWSAR saves money and counter width.

Which fits a small kitchen better?

The COWSAR is narrower at 8.27 inches wide but deeper at 10.63 inches. The Antarctic Star is 15.75 inches wide but only 6.69 inches deep, so measure both directions before you buy.

Do both clean themselves?

Yes. The COWSAR runs a 15-minute cycle when you hold Ice/Clean for 5 seconds. The Antarctic Star auto-cleans its internal water lines.

Which has better owner feedback?

The COWSAR has 4.8 out of 5 from 449 ratings, a much larger sample. The Antarctic Star has 4.9 out of 5 from 47 ratings, too few to weigh as heavily.

COWSAR Nugget Ice Maker Countertop vs Antarctic Star Countertop Nugget Ice Maker Gen 2

Both make soft, chewable nugget ice on the counter, and the choice comes down to price and footprint. The COWSAR is $139.99 at Target as of November 8, 2026, and the Antarctic Star is $148.82 at Amazon as of the same date. Buy the COWSAR for the lower price and the narrow 8.27-inch width; buy the Antarctic Star if you want a bigger 1.8L tank, a 1.5L ice basket and one-touch dispensing.

Today the COWSAR Nugget Ice Maker Countertop costs $8.83 less at its best price.

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