Product review (5 stars): This makes lovely, chewable ice!
I purchased a portable icemaker for my mother about 10 years ago that works similarly to this one, but it is a monster in size compared to this. Also, I greatly prefer the ice this Ivation icemaker produces. And the other features like the window and the LCD control panel make it much more convenient to use.

You should understand that portable icemakers like this differ in two ways from the built-in icemakers in your refrigerator/freezer. First, you pour the water in and when it is depleted, you must pour in more. (Hint: I suggest using filtered water, particularly if you live in a hard water area. Mineral deposits are tough on appliances.)

Second, the area the ice falls into is not refrigerated, although it is insulated to some degree. So when the ice is made and it falls into the basket, you then need to use it or transfer it to a freezer or an ice chest. Otherwise, the ice will begin to melt and the water will drain down into the water tank to be made into ice again. Thus, it isn't a machine you just turn on and leave unattended and return to find 26 pounds of ice at the end of the day. But it will produce over 26 pounds of ice in a 24 hour period as long as someone empties the ice basket and replenishes the water as needed.

So out of the box, you will find an attractive machine that weighs about 25 pounds empty and measures about 12" x 14" x 13 1/2". Inside the icemaker is a basket for the ice and a handy plastic scoop. There is also a helpful, well-written user manual.

FYI: You will need 8"-10" of space next to the air outlet on one side and be certain that the air inlet on the other side of the machine is unobstructed so take that into consideration when deciding where to put this machine.

After letting the machine sit for at least 30 minutes (for the refrigerant to settle), clean the icemaker and plug it in. Pour water into the tank up to the maximum fill line and put the ice basket in place (it has a 95oz. capacity). Using the back-lit LCD panel on the front of the machine, set the time and select the ice size you wish to make and start the machine. You'll have ice in 10-20 minutes, depending upon the size you select.

The ice is a hollow, bullet shape and it is not the super hard, clear kind. It's aerated enough to be soft and nice for people who like to chew ice.

The basket holds about 2 pounds of ice and the icemaking process will suspend when the basket is full. It also beeps to let you know the basket is full. That's a nice feature so I can be busy doing other things.

I really like the window on top so you can see easily how much ice is ready.

This machine is perfect for people who don't have a built-in icemaker in their freezer or for homes where it would be difficult or impossible to plumb for one. It's also nice for parties where extra ice is needed. It works perfectly, is a manageable size, and makes very nice ice.

NOTE: I was provided a sample for review, but a positive review was not asked for, promised or implied.