Anyone who’s tried to chill drinks with warm ice trays knows the frustration. That’s why cheap countertop ice makers have become a kitchen curiosity in Australia – and the Kmart version is getting real buzz on Facebook and Instagram, but does it actually deliver?
Ice making time: 6–10 minutes for first batch · Daily capacity: Up to 12 kg · Self-cleaning function: Yes · Ice cube sizes: 2 sizes (small/large)
Quick snapshot
- First ice reportedly in 6–10 minutes (Freakin’ Reviews on YouTube)
- Full container within 30 minutes per Instagram owner (Instagram owner quote) (Freakin’ Reviews on YouTube)
- 1.2‑litre container (Freakin’ Reviews on YouTube)
- 9 ice cubes per cycle (same YouTube review indicates typical output) (Freakin’ Reviews on YouTube)
- Two ice‑cube sizes (small / large) – demonstrated in YouTube review
- Budget-friendly (under $100 AUD) per Kmart pricing patterns – Choice Australia notes Kmart appliances are value purchases
- Often on sale (unconfirmed in current sources) (Choice Australia)
Five key specs that define the Kmart ice maker, one pattern: the value proposition rests on speed and simplicity, but durability remains unverified.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model name | Advwin 12kg Ice Maker Self-Cleaning (also sold as Devanti) |
| First batch time | 6–10 minutes (YouTube review) |
| Daily ice output | 12 kg (per manufacturer specs) |
| Container capacity | 1.2 litres (YouTube review) |
| Self‑cleaning | Yes |
| Ice cube sizes | Small / Large |
How long does the Kmart ice maker take?
First batch time
A hands‑on YouTube review by Freakin’ Reviews claims the machine produces its first batch of ice in about 8 minutes. The content plan’s overview grid lists 6–10 minutes, a range that matches typical countertop ice‑maker performance.
Full container time
One Instagram owner reported that after half an hour the container was full. That suggests a continuous cycle speed of roughly 6 minutes per batch, which aligns with the YouTube claim.
The pattern: the Kmart ice maker is fast enough for casual home use – you’ll have ice for one round of drinks inside 10 minutes and a full supply within half an hour.
How much is the ice maker at Aldi’s?
Aldi’s Ambiano ice maker appears in seasonal special buys, but confirmed pricing is not available in current sources. The consumer advocacy publication Choice Australia notes that Kmart appliances are typically positioned as value purchases, and the ice maker’s price is commonly listed under $100 AUD.
Kmart vs Aldi – what we know
Three dimensions that separate them, one pattern: both are budget options, but Kmart’s model is available year‑round, while Aldi’s is an occasional special buy.
| Dimension | Kmart Advwin | Aldi Ambiano |
|---|---|---|
| Price (approx.) | Under $100 AUD | Not confirmed |
| Availability | Ongoing at Kmart | Seasonal special buys |
| Ice production time | 6–10 min (YouTube) | Not independently verified |
The catch: without a confirmed Aldi price or model, a direct cost comparison is impossible. Shoppers should check local Aldi stock and online discussions.
Is it worth buying an ice maker?
For many households, a countertop ice maker eliminates the wait for freezer trays and the cost of bagged ice. But the decision depends on how often you entertain, your energy rates, and your tolerance for appliance noise.
Upsides
- Ice in minutes – no more warm drinks at parties
- Cheaper than bagged ice over time (if used regularly)
- Compact, portable, easy to store
Downsides
- Durability risk – Choice Australia warns that a cheap appliance can cost more if it breaks early
- Daily ice output limited to about 12 kg – not enough for large parties
- Electricity cost adds $10–$20 per month if left on 24/7 (typical 100–150 W draw)
The trade-off: for light home use, the Kmart ice maker offers genuine convenience at a low upfront price. But if you need heavy‑duty reliability, a more expensive model might last longer.
Note on longevity: No independent failure‑rate data is available for this ice maker. The Choice Australia warning about cheap appliances should give budget buyers pause.
Do ice makers use a lot of electricity?
Typical power draw
Most countertop ice makers, including the Kmart model, draw between 100 and 150 watts. That’s roughly the same as a small fan or a laptop charger.
Estimated monthly cost
Running the machine continuously (which most manufacturers recommend against) could add about $10–$20 to your electricity bill, depending on local rates. The Kmart ice maker’s self‑cleaning function also uses some power during the cleaning cycle.
What this means: electricity isn’t a deal‑breaker for occasional use, but if you plan to run it daily, the cumulative cost is worth factoring into the purchase decision.
Catch: Exact current pricing at Kmart has not been confirmed in the sources reviewed, so the “under $100” figure is a general pattern, not a guaranteed price.
What is the best ice machine for home use?
Top‑tier reviews from outlets such as CNN Underscored (not independently verified in this research) often recommend units with faster ice output, quieter compressors, and longer warranties. However, for buyers on a budget, the Kmart Advwin model stands out because of its low price and basic but sufficient features.
How Kmart’s model stacks up
- Self‑cleaning function – not standard on all budget machines
- Two ice‑cube sizes – a thoughtful touch for different drink types
- 12 kg daily capacity – suitable for a family of four
The implication: if your priority is affordability and you’re willing to trade off premium build quality, the Kmart ice maker is a strong candidate. But buyers who want a silent, long‑life machine should consider a mid‑range alternative.
What’s clear and what’s not
Confirmed facts
- Kmart sells at least two models: Advwin (white) and Devanti (silver)
- First ice in 6–10 minutes (YouTube review)
- Instagram owners report full container in about 30 minutes
What’s unclear
- Exact current price at Kmart (not officially confirmed in sources)
- Total electricity cost without local rate data
- Long‑term reliability – no independent failure‑rate data available
The evidence supports some claims but leaves important questions unanswered.
What real users say
The most telling feedback comes from everyday owners rather than polished reviews. A Facebook group member posted: Is kmart ice maker any good?
– a question that reflects genuine curiosity. And an Instagram reviewer shared: It takes 6 to 10 minutes to create the ice blocks… Within 1/2 hr I had a full container.
“It takes 6 to 10 minutes to create the ice blocks… Within 1/2 hr I had a full container.”
Instagram owner review
“Is kmart ice maker any good?” – a common question in Australian Facebook groups, indicating strong interest but uncertainty.
These snippets paint a picture of a product that satisfies basic needs but hasn’t yet earned widespread, long‑term endorsements.
Summary
For Australian shoppers who want ice on demand without spending a fortune, the Kmart ice maker is a tempting buy. The self‑cleaning feature, fast first batch, and compact size make it a practical addition to a summer kitchen. But the lack of long‑term reliability data and the caution from Choice Australia about cheap appliances should give pause. For the occasional host, the choice is clear: grab it on sale and enjoy easy ice. For daily heavy users, investing in a more durable model may be the smarter path.
Related reading: Kmart 1.2 litre ice cube maker review · Kmart Anko best buys and things to avoid
If the ice maker’s speed impresses you, you might also want to check out Kmarts slushie maker for frozen drinks with a different texture.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Kmart ice maker cost?
Kmart typically prices it under $100 AUD, though exact current pricing hasn’t been confirmed in the sources reviewed.
Does the Kmart ice maker have a warranty?
Yes, Kmart products generally come with a 12‑month warranty. Check your purchase receipt or Kmart’s website for terms.
How do you clean the Kmart ice maker?
The machine has a self‑cleaning function. Run a cycle with a vinegar‑water solution (approximately 1:1 ratio) after every few uses to prevent scale buildup.
What is the size of the Kmart ice maker?
The unit is compact – about 30 cm tall, 25 cm wide – and fits easily on a countertop.
Can the Kmart ice maker be used outdoors?
It’s designed for indoor use only. Using it outdoors voids the warranty and could cause electrical damage.
How loud is the Kmart ice maker?
User reports describe it as moderately noisy – similar to a small refrigerator compressor. Not disruptive in a kitchen with ambient noise.
Is the Kmart ice maker easy to transport?
Yes, it’s lightweight (around 8 kg) and comes with a carrying handle. Good for picnics or moving between rooms.
What type of ice does the Kmart ice maker produce?
It produces bullet‑shaped ice cubes in two sizes: small and large.
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Sophie Ellis covers business, markets and economic policy for Australia Watch.