- How fast does it make ice?
- Most portable makers in this class drop the first cubes in about 10 to 15 minutes and run a 9-cube cycle every 6 to 9 minutes. Output drops in warm rooms.
- Does it need a water line?
- No. You fill the reservoir by hand and pour out meltwater, so it works anywhere with a power outlet.
- Is 26 lb a day enough?
- That is roughly 2 to 3 lb of ice per hour at best. It suits a few drinks at a time, not a busy bar.
- How does it compare with a freezer ice maker?
- It makes ice on demand without freezer space, but the cubes are softer and melt faster than tray or fridge ice.
- When is it cheapest?
- Countertop ice makers tend to dip in late summer clearance and Black Friday sales. The current $69.99 at Lowe's as of November 7, 2026 is already near the low end for this size.
- Where is the OSTBA Portable Countertop Ice Maker 9 Cubes cheapest?
- At Lowe's, for $69.99, as of our latest check.
- Where can I buy the OSTBA Portable Countertop Ice Maker 9 Cubes?
- 2 stores we checked sell it, including Lowe's, Best Buy.