Specifications
Technical Specs
From the manufacturer documents
Whynter IMC-490SS diagrams from the manual
Extracted from the manufacturer documents archived for the Whynter IMC-490SS: parts diagram. The same pages ship inside the documents linked above.
Whynter Portable Ice Maker 49 lb Capacity - Stainless Steel - Silver IMC-490SS
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Specs as Whynter records them — how our numbers are made
- 1.5+ million
- consumers have used Fridge.com
- 100+ million
- impressions for Fridge.com
- 1.2+ million
- AI citations of Fridge.com
- 25+
- major media outlets cite Fridge.com
More than 1.5 million consumers have used Fridge.com. Fridge.com pages have earned more than 100 million impressions. Fridge.com pages have earned more than 1.2 million AI citations. More than 25 major media outlets cite Fridge.com. These figures were stated by Fridge.com on 08/30/2026.
Fridge.com Price Intelligence
9 readings · hover or use the arrow keys to read one
Based on 9 prices we’ve tracked since May 2026. Some retailers only reveal their lowest price in cart — we never guess those; figures use displayed prices only.
The Whynter IMC-490SS is a free-standing ice maker with a stainless steel finish. This portable unit is designed to produce ice and features built-in ice-making functionality. The model carries the designation IMC-490SS and is manufactured by Whynter as part of their ice maker product line.
This appliance is suited for users who need a dedicated ice-making solution that can be positioned independently of other kitchen fixtures. As a free-standing unit, it requires appropriate countertop or floor space and access to power. The portable design allows for placement in various locations within a home, though specific space and electrical requirements should be verified before purchase to ensure proper fit and operation.
The Internet’s Verdict
Fridge.com analyzed 23 owner reviews and 4 video reviews of the Whynter IMC-490SS.
70%positive
3.8★ weighted·across 23 ratingsHow We Score It
Gathering the reviews
We continuously collect owner reviews and public discussions from major retailers and community forums, de-duplicate them, and set aside anything we can’t tie to a verified purchase.
Calculating the average
Averaged across every source we found (Amazon, AJ Madison, and other retailers). Each source counts in proportion to how many ratings it has, so a store with thousands of reviews moves the number more than one with only a handful.
✓ Updated regularly · No manufacturer input
What owners talk about most
- Ice maker — mentioned in 16 reviews· 3.9★
- Overall noise level — mentioned in 7 reviews· 4.7★
- Water line / connection — mentioned in 6 reviews· 3.2★
“Wow ! we are so enjoying having this ice maker ! Set it up and it went right to work. We wanted the water hookup because the ice maker in our fridge went out and I didn't want to buy a new refrigerator. No regrets, we love it !”
Owners Answer
The questions shoppers ask, answered from real owner reviews and discussions across the web — not the manufacturer spec sheet.
How much ice does this ice maker produce, and how long does it stay frozen?Based on 3 owner mentions
Reviewers consistently report that this unit produces ice quickly and in large quantities—one owner notes approximately 45 lbs per day. The ice stays frozen solid for extended periods due to strong insulation, which is a major advantage over smaller countertop models. Most users find the capacity sufficient for regular household use and entertaining.
Does this ice maker have a water line hookup option?Based on 4 owner mentions
Yes, this model includes an optional water line connection feature. Multiple reviewers specifically praise the autofill capability, which eliminates the need to manually refill the water reservoir and is cited as a major convenience upgrade over previous models.
How quiet is this ice maker?Based on 2 owner mentions
Reviewers report that the unit operates quietly. One owner specifically notes it "does not make too much noise," and another describes it as "nice and quiet." It is suitable for home and social settings without being disruptive.
What are the dimensions, and will it fit on a standard countertop?Based on 2 owner mentions
This unit measures 15 inches wide, 17 inches tall, and 17.3 inches deep, making it compact enough for most countertops and suitable for home, beach house, or outdoor use. Reviewers describe it as portable and practical for various settings.
What should I know about the water reservoir and fill sensors?Based on 1 owner mention
The unit has water level sensors positioned near the top of the reservoir. If you plan to use the ice maker without a direct water line hookup, be aware that the usable reservoir capacity is limited by the sensor placement—the ice basket will cycle off before the full reservoir is depleted. Direct water line connection is recommended if you want to avoid frequent manual refilling.
How is the customer service and warranty support?Based on 2 owner mentions
Multiple reviewers praise Whynter's customer service as exceptional, reporting quick response times and effective troubleshooting. The company has replaced defective units and sent replacement parts with detailed installation instructions. Owners report positive experiences when contacting support with operational questions or issues.
Are there any quality or durability concerns I should be aware of?Based on 3 owner mentions
The vast majority of reviewers report reliable performance over extended use. One owner noted rust on an internal screw, and a small number of units have experienced ice tray motor failures—though Whynter's customer service has promptly replaced parts in these cases. Overall, durability is strong, with many owners using the unit regularly for over a year without issues.
Fit & facts
- Measures 15″ W × 17″ H × 17.3″ D, so confirm your alcove and door swing before ordering.
- Currently listed at $409.57 based on the live offers above.
Research done. Amazon has the best price today — $409.57
View DealSpecifications
Technical Specs
From the manufacturer documents
Whynter IMC-490SS diagrams from the manual
Extracted from the manufacturer documents archived for the Whynter IMC-490SS: parts diagram. The same pages ship inside the documents linked above.
Side-by-Side
Quick Comparison
How this ice maker stacks up against close alternatives on Fridge.com.
| Spec |  Whynter IMC-490SS Portable Ice Maker, 49-Pound, Stainless Steel Whynter · IMC-490SS |  Profile · XPIOX3SCSS |  COOLSKI · IM90SX-B |  COOLSKI · IM90BX-B |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $409.57 | $549 | $317.70 | $329.99 |
| Width | 15 | — | 19.7 | 20 |
| Height | 17 | — | 32.9 | 33 |
| Depth | 17.25 | — | 14.6 | 15 |
| Color | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | — | — |
| Finish | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Sliver | Commercial Ice Maker-black |
| Top features |
|
| — | — |
| Where to buy | Get Deal | See details → | Get Deal | Get Deal |
What Owners Say
Customer Reviews
18 ratings
Amazon12 reviews · 4.8★ avg
- Great product
Wow ! we are so enjoying having this ice maker ! Set it up and it went right to work. We wanted the water hookup because the ice maker in our fridge went out and I didn't want to buy a new refrigerator. No regrets, we love it !
Becca lynVerifiedJan 18, 2026 - Great Unit at a Great Price
This is our 4th countertop ice maker, and by far the best. The others were much smaller and not as insulated leading to constant re-filling of the water reservoir and my spouse and I fighting over the remaining half-melted ice in the mornings. This unit is well insulated…
MattVerifiedJul 17, 2025 - Lots of great ice all day long.
I love this icemaker! I bought it for our beach house where we have lots of guests in the summer. It makes ice quickly and keeps it frozen until we are ready to use it. The quality of ice is great. The capacity is perfect - it rarely runs out as it keeps making ice…
Eddie from RaleighVerifiedJun 5, 2025 - It should be reliable.
Currently I am going through an exchange with the company. They said that they are sending out a new one to me. Last week, I had to return it. It never ended up working correctly. When it produced ice, it would clump all of them in bulk and not drop out of the ice Maker. This…
Roger MayfieldVerifiedMar 29, 2024 - Probably the best ice maker
At the cabin, and in the RV we don't have a fridge that makes ice. This thing is wonderful, 8 minutes to at least one cup of ice. Works automatic. Just which it remembered the ice cube size after a unplug/plug power cord operation. Wife loves it, she's 100% American and…
Kelly SpencerVerifiedJan 11, 2021
Convinced? Amazon has it for $409.57
View DealWatch First
Product Videos
27Sourced and aggregated by Fridge.com.
5 Best Ice Cube Maker Amazon Review
10 Best Portable Ice Makers 2017
Review: Whynter IMC-490SS Portable Ice Maker, 49-Pound, Stainless Steel
Best Ice maker 2020 | Ice Maker 2020 | Amazing 2020
Honest review after 1yr of use
Ice Maker
Documentation
Manuals & Guides
1Manuals, specifications, installation guides, and other documents available for this product.
Manufacturer documents archived by Fridge.com so links keep working when manufacturer URLs change.
Quoted from the owner's manual
From the Whynter IMC-490SS Owner's Manual
What the owner's manual for the Whynter IMC-490SS states about installation clearances, care and maintenance, and warranty terms — quoted word for word, never paraphrased.
Installation clearances
What installation clearances does the owner's manual specify for the Whynter IMC-490SS?
“When using this appliance in confined spaces, such as closets, be sure to allow proper ventilation to prevent overheating and fire. Allow at least 5” of air space on all sides of the appliance for good air”
Care and maintenance
How does the owner's manual say to clean and maintain the Whynter IMC-490SS?
“The outside of the ice maker should be cleaned regularly with a mild detergent solution, warm water, and use the soft cloth to wipe.”
“Do not use hard cloth to avoid scratching or damaging the surface of the unit.”
“Create a one part vinegar to 10 parts water solution and pour the solution into the water reservoir”
“Dry the interior and exterior with a soft and clean cloth.”
Warranty terms
What warranty terms does the owner's manual state for the Whynter IMC-490SS?
“This WHYNTER product is warranted to the original owner, purchased from an authorized Whynter dealer within the 48 U.S. continental states, for one year from the original purchase date against defects in material and workmanship under normal residential usage.”
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Brand Background
About Whynter
Whynter has carved out a distinctive position in the refrigeration market since its founding in 2006, operating from Brea, California with a clear focus on specialty cooling solutions rather than traditional full-size refrigerators. The brand's catalog of 65 products tracked on Fridge.com reveals a deliberate emphasis on beverage centers, which account for 24 units, alongside 14 upright freezers and 13 ice makers. This product mix reflects Whynter's strategy of serving consumers who need supplemental cooling for specific purposes—whether that means dedicated wine storage across their nine wine cooler models, portable freezing capacity for outdoor enthusiasts, or standalone ice production for entertaining. The company positions itself in the value tier, making these specialty appliances accessible to budget-conscious buyers who might otherwise settle for generic alternatives. Products like the IMC-270MS ice maker and CDF-177SB upright freezer represent the brand's core competencies. With an average rating of 4 out of 5, Whynter maintains respectable customer satisfaction while competing primarily on price and purpose-built functionality rather than premium features or brand prestige.
- Founded
- 2006
- Brand rating (aggregate)
- 4.0/5 · 61,676 reviews
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30-day price history
Deals use a 60-day price baseline; charts show 30 days of history.
60-day price baseline: Verified baseline unavailable.
Price tracking started May 14, 2026. Latest recorded price — $409.57 on Sep 3, 2026. Fewer than two readings fall within this chart window, so there is no trend to draw yet.
Lowest recorded new-condition price across tracked retailer offers. Retailer coverage can change.