The main difference between an ice machine and an ice maker is the way they are designed and the amount of ice they can produce. An ice maker, typically found in a refrigerator, is a small unit that produces ice on a smaller scale. It is integrated into the refrigerator and produces ice by freezing water in a tray or mold. The ice is then released into a bin and can be dispensed through a dispenser on the outside of the refrigerator. Ice makers are typically designed to produce enough ice for everyday use and are not suitable for commercial or high-volume applications. On the other hand, an ice machine is a standalone unit that is designed to produce large quantities of ice on a continuous basis. These machines can be found in commercial settings such as restaurants, bars, and hotels—they can also be found as undercounter appliances in high-end residential kitchens. Ice machines work by using a refrigeration cycle to freeze water and then harvest the ice into a storage bin.