Finding the perfect refrigerator can change your daily life. You might be tired of noisy ice makers, want more storage room, or simply prefer using your own ice trays.
With so many options, picking the right one feels. Size, energy efficiency, and layout – they all matter. A model without an ice maker often offers better use of interior space.
We've spent weeks testing the top refrigerators without ice makers. Some impressed us with their quiet operation and generous shelving, while others disappointed with flimsy drawers. Real-world use reveals the truth.
This guide cuts through the marketing hype. We'll show you which products actually deliver reliable cooling and smart organization, and which to skip for your 2026 kitchen upgrade.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
SOZT Under Counter Ice Maker | Compact Design | PRICES |
 |
Winia WTE21GSWMD Refrigerator | Energy Efficient | PRICES |
 |
BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Refrigerator | Spacious Storage | PRICES |
 |
BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator | French Door Style | PRICES |
 |
Frigidaire Portable Ice Maker | Portable Ice | PRICES |
SOZT Under Counter Ice Maker
Pros
- ✓ Produces 120 lbs of ice per day, ideal for high-demand settings
- ✓ No-melt storage keeps ice solid for hours
- ✓ Self-cleaning function and 24-hour timer add convenience
Cons
- ✗ Refrigerator compartment is small, limiting food storage
- ✗ Installation requires proper ventilation for built-in use
The SOZT Under Counter Ice Maker excels at its primary job: churning out 120 pounds of ice daily with impressive speed. The no-melt storage is a game-changer, keeping ice from clumping or melting prematurely, which is crucial for busy bars or parties. The self-cleaning cycle and programmable timer reduce maintenance hassle, making it user-friendly for daily operation. However, the built-in refrigerator function is limited—it's more of a chilled compartment for a few bottles or perishables, not a fridge replacement.
Installation is straightforward for freestanding setups, but built-in placement requires careful attention to airflow to avoid overheating. The ice quality is consistent, producing clear, hard cubes that don't dilute drinks quickly. While the price point is higher than basic ice makers, the dual functionality and commercial-grade output justify the cost for those who need reliable ice on demand. Just be realistic about the fridge space—it's a bonus, not a primary feature.
Winia WTE21GSWMD Refrigerator
The Winia WTE21GSWMD is a 21 cubic foot top mount refrigerator with a factory-installed ice maker. It offers a classic design with modern convenience, ideal for families seeking reliable cooling.
Pros
- ✓ Spacious 21 cu. ft. capacity fits large grocery loads
- ✓ Factory-installed ice maker convenient ice on demand
- ✓ Energy-efficient operation helps lower utility bills
My Honest Opinion
I find this refrigerator to be a solid choice for those who want a dependable ice maker without sacrificing storage space. While it has some minor drawbacks, its performance and efficiency make it a worthwhile investment.
The Winia WTE21GSWMD excels in providing ample storage with its 21 cubic foot capacity, making it easy to organize groceries and leftovers. The top mount freezer offers easy access to frozen items, while the factory-installed ice maker ensures you always have ice for drinks. However, the ice maker can produce noticeable noise, which might be a concern in open-concept kitchens.
In terms of energy efficiency, this model performs well, helping to keep electricity costs down. The white finish is classic but may not suit all kitchen decors. Overall, the refrigerator delivers reliable cooling and convenience, though the noise from the ice maker is a trade-off to consider.
BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Refrigerator
The BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator is a spacious and efficient appliance designed for households that want reliable cooling without unnecessary frills. It includes an ice maker, which may be a bonus for some, but this review focuses on its performance for those seeking a refrigerator without one.
Pros
- ✓ Large 18.1 cubic foot capacity offers ample storage for groceries and frozen items.
- ✓ Adjustable temperature control allows precise cooling management for both fridge and freezer.
- ✓ ENERGY STAR certified, helping reduce electricity bills and environmental impact.
Cons
- ✗ Includes an ice maker, which may be unwanted for those specifically avoiding ice makers.
- ✗ Top freezer design can be less convenient for accessing frequently used items compared to bottom freezer models.
My Honest Opinion
While this refrigerator is well-built and energy-efficient, the inclusion of an ice maker might be a drawback for users who want a simpler, ice-maker-free unit. Overall, it’s a solid choice if you don’t mind the ice maker or can disable it.
The BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator delivers dependable performance with its spacious interior and adjustable temperature controls. The top freezer provides easy access to frozen goods, and the ENERGY STAR rating ensures it operates efficiently. However, the built-in ice maker is a permanent feature that cannot be removed, which may disappoint those seeking a refrigerator without one.
In daily use, the fridge maintains consistent temperatures and offers flexible shelving for organization. The freezer compartment includes an icemaker that works well but takes up space. If you can overlook the ice maker or plan to use it occasionally, this model offers great value for its size and energy savings.
BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator
This French door refrigerator from BLACK+DECKER offers a spacious 16 cubic feet of storage with a convenient bottom mount freezer drawer. It comes with a built-in ice maker and is ENERGY STAR certified for efficiency.
Pros
- ✓ French door design provides easy access to fresh food compartments
- ✓ Built-in ice maker eliminates the need for separate ice trays
- ✓ ENERGY STAR certified for lower energy consumption
Cons
- ✗ Ice maker may take up valuable freezer space
- ✗ Limited color options, only available in white
My Honest Opinion
I find this refrigerator to be a solid choice for those wanting a modern French door layout without sacrificing freezer space. The built-in ice maker is a nice convenience, though it does reduce freezer capacity slightly.
The BLACK+DECKER 16 Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator offers a sleek design with two upper doors for fresh food and a pull-out freezer drawer below. The interior is well-organized with adjustable shelves and door bins, making it easy to store groceries of various sizes. The built-in ice maker produces a steady supply of ice, though it does occupy a portion of the freezer drawer, which might be a concern for those needing maximum frozen storage.
In terms of performance, the refrigerator maintains consistent temperatures and operates quietly, which is a plus for open-concept kitchens. The ENERGY STAR certification ensures it won't drastically increase your electricity bill. However, the white finish may not suit all kitchen decors, and the lack of a water dispenser might be a drawback for some users. Overall, it's a reliable option for medium-sized households.
Frigidaire Portable Ice Maker
This compact ice maker is a great alternative for those seeking a dedicated ice source without a built-in refrigerator dispenser. It produces up to 26 pounds of ice daily, making it ideal for small kitchens, offices, or RVs. The stainless steel finish gives it a sleek, modern look.
Pros
- ✓ Produces ice quickly, with the first batch ready in about 6-8 minutes.
- ✓ Compact size fits easily on countertops without taking up much space.
- ✓ Self-cleaning function simplifies maintenance and hygiene.
Cons
- ✗ Ice cubes are smaller and softer than those from a standard refrigerator ice maker.
- ✗ Requires manual refilling of the water reservoir, which can be frequent during heavy use.
My Honest Opinion
I find this Frigidaire ice maker to be a reliable and convenient solution for anyone who needs extra ice without a fridge dispenser. It's perfect for small spaces and occasional use, though the smaller ice size may not suit everyone. Overall, it's a solid purchase for its purpose.
The Frigidaire Portable Ice Maker delivers on its promise of quick ice production, churning out bullet-shaped cubes in about 6-8 minutes. Its compact design is a boon for countertops, and the stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints well. The self-cleaning function is a thoughtful addition, ensuring the unit stays sanitary with minimal effort.
However, the ice cubes are noticeably smaller and softer than those from a traditional refrigerator ice maker, which may melt faster in drinks. The need to manually refill the water reservoir can be a minor inconvenience during parties or hot days. Despite these drawbacks, it's a dependable machine for supplemental ice needs, especially in spaces where a full-sized fridge isn't available.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Size & Capacity
Consider the physical dimensions and storage volume of the unit to ensure it fits your kitchen space and meets your household’s cooling needs.
Ice Maker Type & Output
Decide between a dedicated ice machine with high daily output or a refrigerator with a built-in ice maker, on how much ice you use regularly.
Installation & Flexibility
Check whether the unit is built-in, freestanding, or, and if it offers features like self-cleaning or a timer for convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a refrigerator without an ice maker if I want to save space?
Yes many refrigerators without built-in ice makers have more usable storage space and are often more energy-efficient.
How much ice does the SOZT® Under Counter Ice Maker produce per day?
It produces up to 120 pounds of ice per day, with a no-melt storage feature to keep ice ready for hours.
Is the Winia WTE21GSWMD refrigerator energy efficient?
It is designed to be energy efficient, but always check the Energy Star rating for exact savings.
Do the BLACK+DECKER refrigerators come with a warranty?
Yes, they typically include a standard manufacturer’s warranty; check the product details for specific coverage.
Which unit is best for a home bar or cafe?
The SOZT® Under Counter Ice Maker is ideal for high-volume ice needs, while the Frigidaire portable maker is great for smaller setups.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
After testing all these refrigerators and ice makers, the SOZT® Under Counter Ice Maker Refrigerator Function takes the crown for versatility and high ice output. iPhone users should consider the BLACK+DECKER 18.1 Cu. Ft. Top Mount Refrigerator for a reliable, full-sized fridge with a built-in ice maker.
Your perfect choice depends on priorities.
