Accgo Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5)
The HAVATO Portable Ice Maker is designed for users who want fast, convenient ice production without installing a permanent under-counter system. With the ability to produce bullet ice in as little as six minutes and up to 26 lbs per day, this countertop unit targets apartments, RV owners, party hosts, and anyone who regularly runs out of freezer ice.
After hands-on evaluation, the HAVATO proves to be a reliable performer in its category — compact, efficient, and easy to operate — though it remains best suited for light-to-moderate demand rather than high-volume entertaining.
Positioned in the affordable countertop ice maker segment, the HAVATO competes with brands like GE Profile Opal (entry tier), Silonn, and Euhomy. It sits in the value-oriented bracket while offering competitive daily output and a self-cleaning function — features often found in slightly more expensive models.
For buyers seeking a low-commitment alternative to built-in ice systems, pricing is one of its strongest advantages.
Design and Build Quality
The HAVATO ice maker features a compact footprint (approximately 28.5 × 22 × 26.4 cm) and weighs just over 5 kg, making it easy to move between kitchen counters, patios, RVs, or office break rooms.
The control panel is straightforward: simple indicator lights signal when water is low or the ice basket is full. Operation is essentially one-button, making it accessible even for users unfamiliar with countertop appliances.
The build is primarily lightweight plastic, which is standard at this price point. While it doesn’t feel premium, it’s structurally solid for typical household use.
Ice Production Performance
Performance is where the HAVATO earns its place.
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First batch ready in about 6 minutes
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Up to 26 lbs (≈12 kg) of ice per 24 hours
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Produces classic bullet-shaped ice cubes
During testing, initial ice batches were slightly smaller and softer — common in thermoelectric ice makers — but production stabilized quickly after the unit cooled internally.
Bullet ice is ideal for:
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Soft drinks
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Iced coffee
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Cocktails
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Smoothies
It is not the same as chewable nugget ice (like premium Opal machines), but for general-purpose household use, it performs reliably.
One important note: like most countertop ice makers, the HAVATO does not refrigerate stored ice. If ice sits in the basket, it will gradually melt and recycle into the water reservoir. This is standard behavior for this category.
Noise Levels
Noise output is moderate. The compressor and internal fan are audible during operation, similar to a small coffee maker or compact refrigerator.
It’s suitable for kitchen use but may be noticeable in very quiet environments like bedrooms or offices.
Self-Cleaning Function
The built-in self-cleaning mode is a valuable inclusion. With regular use, mineral buildup can impact ice clarity and taste. The cleaning cycle simplifies maintenance and extends the machine’s lifespan.
For optimal performance, periodic manual rinsing and descaling are still recommended.
Ease of Use
Setup takes less than five minutes:
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Add water to the reservoir
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Plug in the unit
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Press the start button
No plumbing connection is required. This makes it ideal for:
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Renters
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RV users
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Temporary setups
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Outdoor gatherings
The transparent viewing window allows users to monitor ice production without lifting the lid.
Pros
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Produces ice in as little as 6 minutes
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Up to 26 lbs daily output
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Compact and portable design
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Easy one-button operation
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Self-cleaning function included
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Affordable price point
Cons
– Ice basket is not refrigerated
– Bullet ice only (no nugget or cube size options)
– Moderate operational noise
– Plastic build feels functional rather than premium
Verdict
The HAVATO Portable Ice Maker delivers exactly what most buyers in this category need: fast, convenient ice production without installation complexity. It is compact enough for small kitchens yet powerful enough to handle daily household demand.
While it lacks premium features like nugget ice or cold storage, it offers strong value for its price bracket. For casual entertainers, apartment dwellers, and RV owners, it strikes an effective balance between speed, portability, and affordability.
Accgo Rating: 4.2/5 — A dependable countertop ice maker that prioritizes speed and simplicity over luxury features.
By Jessica Borga. Accgo doesn’t review products. It explains whether living with them actually makes life easier—especially in Canada.