Antarctic Star Ice Maker Review: Worth It? (October 2026)
The Antarctic Star 26 lb Bullet Ice Maker suits small kitchens and portable setups that need bullet ice in repeated batches. It has two ice sizes and a self-cleaning cycle, but it doesn't keep finished ice frozen.
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The Antarctic Star 26 lb Bullet Ice Maker suits a compact counter or portable setup where you want bullet ice in repeated batches. It offers two ice sizes and a self-cleaning cycle.
Its stated production is up to 26 lb per day. For other shapes and uses, see our guide to the best ice makers for home.
What does the Antarctic Star ice maker offer?
The Antarctic Star makes bullet-shaped ice in two sizes and is rated for up to 26 lb of production per day. The product title describes ice in 6 minutes, while its item highlight describes 8 pieces in 6 minutes.
Antarctic Star 26 lb Bullet Ice Maker: Best for compact portable use
- 26 lb daily ice production
- 2 ice sizes
- Self-cleaning cycle
- 8.66 x 10.39 x 11.22 in dimensions
A compact countertop bullet ice maker with a handle, basket and scoop. Its stated output is 26 lb per day, and finished ice needs to be moved to a freezer for longer storage.
Pros
- Two bullet ice sizes
- 26 lb daily production capacity
- Self-cleaning cycle
- Handle, basket and scoop included
Cons
- Finished ice is not kept frozen
The package includes an ice maker, basket, scoop and handle. Its dimensions are 10.39 in deep, 8.66 in wide and 11.22 in high, making it worth considering for an RV counter or a small kitchen.
Antarctic Star ice maker size and footprint
The Antarctic Star measures 8.66 in wide, 10.39 in deep and 11.22 in high. Check these dimensions against your available space before choosing a spot.
Follow the manual for placement and clearance. The supplied product information does not specify airflow clearance or sunlight guidance.
How does it make and store ice?
The Antarctic Star makes ice in short cycles, then the basket collects each batch until you remove it. The supplied product information does not say whether the machine keeps finished ice frozen.
Check the manual for how to handle ice in the basket and reservoir. If you want to store ice, confirm the machine's storage instructions before relying on it for a gathering.
The guide to using a countertop ice maker explains setup and what to expect from a machine that makes ice in cycles.
What should you know about cleaning?
The Antarctic Star includes a one-touch self-cleaning cycle. The brand recommends running it weekly or after 2 weeks of inactivity.
A cleaning cycle doesn't replace wiping accessible surfaces or following the manual's care directions. Drain and rinse the machine as instructed, and let it dry before storing it for an extended period.
For more detailed care steps, see our guide to cleaning a countertop ice maker and the instructions for descaling a countertop ice maker.
How does it compare with similar bullet ice makers?
The Antarctic Star's main comparison points are daily capacity, size, controls and care features. These alternatives are also rated for 26 lb per day, so dimensions and included features may help guide your choice.
| Model | Daily output | Notable details |
|---|---|---|
| Antarctic Star 26 lb Bullet Ice Maker | 26 lb | 2 ice sizes, self-cleaning cycle, handle, basket and scoop |
| Silonn Portable Bullet Ice Maker with Carry Handle | 26 lb | 1.2 L water tank, carry handle, self-cleaning function |
| Crzoe 26 lb Self-Cleaning Bullet Ice Maker | 26 lb | 2 ice sizes, self-cleaning function, 11.77 lb weight |
| Frigidaire EFIC128 Compact Ice Maker | 26 lb | Viewing window, water and basket indicators |
The Antarctic Star is a straightforward fit if its features match your needs. For other small-counter choices, compare the options in our mini ice maker guide.
Who should choose the Antarctic Star?
Choose the Antarctic Star if you want bullet ice and two size options in a portable countertop format. Its handle, basket and scoop are included.
Consider another kind of machine if you specifically want chewable nugget ice or clear ice for a home bar. Our guide to clear ice makers covers a different style of ice and use.
The product data doesn't specify whether the machine keeps finished ice frozen. Check the manual's storage instructions if that feature matters to you.
Is the Antarctic Star ice maker worth considering?
The Antarctic Star is worth considering when compact bullet ice production and simple cleaning matter most. Its 26 lb daily rating and two ice sizes cover common drink needs.
Pick it for a portable countertop setup and regular batches. Compare the best ice makers for home if you want a broader view of ice styles and machine types.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
Frequently asked questions
How much ice does the Antarctic Star ice maker make?
The Antarctic Star is rated to make up to 26 lb of bullet ice per day. Its product title describes ice in 6 minutes, while the item highlight describes 8 bullet ice pieces in 6 minutes.
It makes ice in cycles rather than storing a day's production frozen.
Does the Antarctic Star countertop ice maker keep ice frozen?
The supplied product information does not say whether the Antarctic Star keeps finished cubes frozen. Countertop ice makers generally collect ice in a basket, so plan to move ice to a freezer if you want to store it.
How do you clean the Antarctic Star ice maker?
The Antarctic Star has a one-touch self-cleaning cycle. The brand recommends running it weekly, or after the machine has been inactive for 2 weeks.
For manual cleaning and routine care, follow the instructions for your model; our guide to cleaning a countertop ice maker covers general care.
Is the Antarctic Star ice maker easy to move?
It has a handle and a compact countertop design intended for portable setups such as an RV or tailgate. Check the machine's dimensions against your counter or storage spot before moving it, and follow the manual's placement instructions.
