Some of the most important factors to keep in mind when looking to buy a new countertop ice maker for your home include ice quality, ice output, storage capacity, drainage, cost, and convenience. Other things to consider include design, the amount of cleaning required, as well as the noise that the ice maker produces, and whether a cooling unit is integrated within the product. You want to focus your search on ice makers that quickly and quietly produce large amounts of ice.   The ice should (ideally) be fresh and perfectly shaped, with your desired texture and crunchiness every time. In addition, your ice maker should be able to hold your ice when you aren’t using it, and keep it cool so it doesn’t melt quickly. Finally, you want an ice maker that’s easy and intuitive to use, with simple controls and a compact, sturdy design that fits wherever you choose to place it.