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There is nothing that a nice refreshing drink can't fix on a hot day. Whether you're keeping bottles of Champagne ice cold or serving cocktails at a bar, the quickest way to do it is with an ice bucket.

Ice buckets are normally seen beside a liquor bottle and a set of rocks glasses, but you can also see wine bottles placed inside them. But for a big get-together, you’ll need a beverage tub to hold as many beer bottles to serve guests.

Aside from capacity, these bar tools also vary in look, construction, and more. So if you’re a fan of cold drinks, here are the best ice buckets and beverage tubs you can buy!

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Fine Dine Ice Bucket READ REVIEW Runner-Up: Tablecraft Galvanized Beverage Tub READ REVIEW Best Structure: Oggi Ice Bucket READ REVIEW Best Sleek: Crafthouse by Fortessa Ice Bucket READ REVIEW Best Lightweight: OXO Good Grips Ice Bucket READ REVIEW Best Accessories: Amerigo Make It Special Ice Bucket READ REVIEW Best Rustic: BREKX Copper Galvanized Beverage Tub READ REVIEW Best Insulation: S'well Calacatta Gold Ice Bucket READ REVIEW Most Unique: Jolitac Copper Ice Bucket READ REVIEW Best Value: Twine Living Co. Country Home Ice Bucket READ REVIEW Best Plastic: Prodyne AB-14-A On Ice Beverage Tub READ REVIEW Best Compact: malmo Ice Bucket READ REVIEW Best Versatile: Polder Chill Station READ REVIEW Most Elegant: Godinger Dublin Ice Bucket READ REVIEW Best Simple: True Black Ice Bucket READ REVIEW

1. Best Overall: Fine Dine Ice Bucket

Why We Think It’s Great

• DOUBLE-WALLED STAINLESS STEEL: Maintains insulation and keeps ice from melting quickly
• SLEEK LOOK: Brushed stainless steel that won't tarnish, giving the bucket a professional, contemporary appearance.
• AIRTIGHT LID: Attaches to the bucket tightly, keeping the ice safe from warm air.
• SANITARY STRAINER: Effectively separates the melted water from the ice.
• ERGONOMIC HANDLE: Useful for easy carrying.

What We Don’t Like

• The lid is a bit hard to open at times.

What Buyers Say

“This stainless steel ice bucket is beautifully made and solid and serves our purposes admirably. After using this, it was impressive that the ice cubes stayed frozen for hours, even if the bucket is left out in the open.

We appreciate the tight seal because we don't want a lid that can be accidentally tipped over. Also, it has a rack at the base to keep any melted ice from contaminating the pieces of ice left, and the pair of tongs with the hook is a nice touch.”

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 3 quarts | Manufactured: India | What’s Included: Lid, tongs

Related: The Best Ice Tongs

2. Runner-Up: Tablecraft Galvanized Beverage Tub

Why We Think It’s Great

• IDEAL FOR LARGE PARTIES: With a capacity of 5.5 gallons, it can be used to carry a huge amount of ice and numerous alcohol bottles.
• EASY TO CARRY: Sturdy handles ensure convenience and ease of use.
• DURABLE MATERIAL: Constructed from galvanized steel which is sturdy and corrosion-resistant.

What We Don’t Like

• The outside condenses.

What Buyers Say

“This large ice bucket is just what we need for our big dinner parties as it stores a lot of ice, and with its oval shape, we can also use it as a chilling tub for beer bottles. Safe to say, this is a versatile ice bucket!

In addition, the material was of great quality, with no signs of rusting, and its construction ensures it will last long. Thankfully, there are handles; otherwise, it would’ve been hard to carry an ice bucket this big!”

Material: Galvanized steel | Capacity: 22 quarts | Manufactured: India | What’s Included: Ice bucket only

Related: The Best Bottle Openers

3. Best Structure: Oggi Ice Bucket

Why We Think It’s Great

• MAXIMUM INSULATION: Made from double-walled alloy steel wrapped with polypropylene to avoid condensation.
• ACRYLIC LID: Helps prevent contamination of the ice and provides excellent visibility of the bucket contents.
• PORTABLE: Has a practical, simple-to-use handle that makes it easy to move it around.
• GREAT FOR PARTIES: Its 3.8-liter size means it can accommodate a sizable crowd.
• SCOOP CONTAINER: Conveniently comes with a scoop container on the side to avoid losing the scoop.

What We Don’t Like

• The handle may have some sharp edges.

What Buyers Say

“We've had nothing but fantastic experiences with this best ice bucket; it proved functional and heavy-duty. We tested it in nearly 80°F temperatures, and the ice inside remained frozen for hours. For intimate get-togethers, we find this capacity perfect.

It can accommodate an entire gallon-sized Ziploc bag of ice cubes. Moreover, we think that tongs aren't as convenient as the ice scoop and holder that comes with them. While the base is made of hard plastic, it has non-slip feet, so we had no slipping problems.”

Material: Stainless steel and plastic | Capacity: 4 quarts | Manufactured: Taiwan | What’s Included: Ice scoop

Related: The Best Ice Scoops

4. Best Sleek: Crafthouse by Fortessa Ice Bucket

Why We Think It’s Great

• OVAL AND STOUT: Designed to make scooping ice as simple as possible.
• DOUBLE-WALLED INSULATION: Reduces how quickly the ice inside melts.
• INTEGRATED DRAIN: Designed with an interior drain to keep the entire ice cubes apart from melted ice water.
• SCOOP DRAIN: Leaves out any excess water from the bucket to prevent watered-down drinks.

What We Don’t Like

• It is expensive.

What Our Editors Say

“Our favorite part about this stainless steel ice bucket is how it’s shaped. With its wide opening and short height, your hand won’t get caught up, especially when you're getting ice at the bottom, leading to cleaner ice cubes.

It also showcases a gorgeous mirror-polished exterior, making it look more elegant in any setting, while the handle is comfortable to hold and doesn’t strain the hand. And when you open the lid, you can attach it to the rim of the bucket with its hook.”

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 4.6 quarts | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Scoop, lid

Related: The Best Countertop Ice Makers

5. Best Lightweight: OXO Good Grips Ice Bucket

Why We Think It’s Great

• WELL-INSULATED: Double walls provide excellent insulation, which lengthens the ice's solid state.
• FLIP TOP LID: The ice left in the bucket stays clean and can be easily seen thanks to the built-in transparent lid.
• MELTED WATER PROTECTION: Built-in reservoir diverts melting water away from ice cubes.
• FREE ACCESSORIES: Includes a garnish tray that fits inside the bucket and nylon tongs.

What We Don’t Like

• It’s quite difficult to wash the interior.

What Our Experts Say

Kelsey Waddell from Winning Homebrew comments, “The OXO Good Grips Ice Bucket is a great budget-friendly option for home bartenders with its double-wall construction that keeps ice from melting too quickly.”

“Moreover, its compact size and non-slip base make it a practical choice for a home bar. It also comes with tongs for easy ice handling and has a removable lid that keeps ice clean and fresh,” she notes.

Material: Plastic | Capacity: 3.3 quarts | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Tongs, garnish tray

Related: The Best Bar Caddies and Bar Organizers

6. Best Accessories: Amerigo Make It Special Ice Bucket

Why We Think It’s Great

• BPA-FREE: Made with non-toxic and corrosion-resistant stainless steel that meets FDA requirements.
• NO CONDENSATION: Double layer of insulation to keep the cold in and the sweat out.
• WELL-POLISHED EXTERIOR: Lessens the appearance of fingerprints and other marks.
• EASY TO CARRY: Designed with superior craftsmanship, evident in its ergonomic, anti-slip handle.

What We Don’t Like

• It has an uneven, wobbly bottom.
• The strainer tilts.

What Our Editors Say

“This ice bucket is on the smaller side, which is perfect for small gatherings, date night, or sipping whiskey by yourself. We find the appearance great and sophisticated, making it a great display in your bar.

Furthermore, it is not only made of high-quality material but also quite weighty, demonstrating superior construction and the ability to serve its purpose for a long time. We also appreciate that it produces zero to minimal condensation.”

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 3.2 quarts | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Lid, strainer, tongs, and scoop

Related: The Best Sipping Whiskeys

7. Best Rustic: BREKX Copper Galvanized Beverage Tub

Why We Think It’s Great

• STRONG MATERIAL: Made from heavy-duty galvanized iron with a hammered texture.
• COMPLETELY LEAK-PROOF: The inner bottom is sealed with a powerful sealant to prevent messes.
• EYE-CATCHING COLOR: The copper finish makes it look sophisticated and suitable for indoor and outdoor events.
• RELIABLE HANDLES: Double-hinged so it can carry the maximum load with ease.

What We Don’t Like

• It’s smaller than expected.

What Our Editors Say

“If you’re looking for a way to display your drinks in your wine carts elegantly, look no further than this beverage tub. We believe its glossy copper finish complements the hammered texture, making it stand out and fit as a gift.

This tub can hold about 10-12 drinks, and even if it’s moved from place to place, the durable material paired with the handles makes it easy to do so. We also like how the material is lead-free and rust-proof.”

Material: Iron | Capacity: 15 quarts | Manufactured: India | What’s Included: Tub only

Related: The Best Wine Carts

8. Best Insulation: S'well Calacatta Gold Ice Bucket

Why We Think It’s Great

• BEAUTIFUL DESIGN: Features a stylish marble design that will look good in your kitchen or bar.
• VACUUM INSULATION: Triple layers to easily keep alcohol bottles or ice cubes chilled for longer.
• NO CONDENSATION: A copper layer prevents condensation on the outside surface, ensuring a sweat-free grip.
• SAFE TO USE: Constructed of superior food-grade 18/8 BPA-free stainless steel.

What We Don’t Like

• It is smaller than expected.

What Our Editors Say

“If you’re looking for not just a well-performing stainless steel ice bucket but a beautiful and eye-catching one, we recommend this best ice bucket. It sports a marble pattern of white and gold, which will surely complement your countertop.

Function-wise, this boasts therma-s’well technology, which consists of triple-layer insulation like S’well’s wine tumblers. This assures you of an ice bucket with great temperature retention ability and zero condensation. We also like how the lid has a hole so the tongs can hang by the bucket’s rim.”

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 2.1 quarts | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Tongs, lid

Related: The Best Wine Tumblers

9. Most Unique: Jolitac Copper Ice Bucket

Why We Think It’s Great

• HIGH-QUALITY COPPER: Has a thermal conductivity that helps keep your ice intact for a longer time.
• HAMMERED DESIGN: Gives the ice bucket a refined appearance.
• BUILT-IN HANDLE: Sturdy, welded carry handle, so it can be taken anywhere without hassle.
• 100% WARRANTY: Offers a lifetime guarantee against any defects in materials or workmanship.

What We Don’t Like

• It is prone to condensation.

What Our Editors Say

“If you want to pass on stainless steel or plastic ice buckets, you could try this giant copper mug!

Thanks to the copper material, this has the ability to keep your ice chilled for longer than your standard ice bucket.

In terms of appearance, this could pass as a decorative piece with its beautiful, glistening copper color together with the hammered-down texture. Even the handle looks beautiful! You can also give this as a gift to someone who loves Moscow Mules or alcohol, in general.”

Material: Copper | Capacity: 5 quarts | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Ice bucket only

Related: The Best Copper Mugs for Moscow Mules

10. Best Value: Twine Living Co. Country Home Ice Bucket

Why We Think It’s Great

• GALVANIZED STEEL CONSTRUCTION: Can be used repeatedly without risk because of its durability and safety.
• PORTABLE: Designed with sturdy handles on each side to easily transport the bucket anywhere.
• PLASTIC INTERIOR: Has a plastic insert to prevent contamination of the ice and to keep the temperature stable.
• FREE ICE SCOOP: Conveniently comes with a scoop that may be stored on the hook on the bucket's side.

What We Don’t Like

• The exterior sweats from condensation.

What Our Experts Say

“The Galvanized Metal Ice Bucket by Twine Living is my go-to choice for ice buckets since it can hold more ice than most alternatives (more than 5 gallons),” says Bash Hovian, owner of BASH the bartender.

“This affordable ice bucket is also made from stainless steel, which is durable, rust-resistant, and has good insulating properties, so ice stays cold and dry for longer. And since it will be on display, ensure that this one will contribute to the atmosphere of your event or establishment,” he adds.

Material: Steel and plastic | Capacity: 21.4 quarts | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Plastic insert, scoop, lid

Related: The Best Ice Trays

11. Best Plastic: Prodyne AB-14-A On Ice Beverage Tub

Why We Think It’s Great

• LARGE CAPACITY: Sufficient for storing 4 standard wine bottles and a good amount of ice.
• BREAK-RESISTANT: Constructed from BPA-free styrene polymer, noted for its resistance to breakage.
• TRANSPARENT DESIGN: Displays a classy-clear look and lets you see the inside of the bucket.

What We Don’t Like

• This ice bucket isn’t condensation free.

What Our Editors Say

“If you want a different but awesome way of chilling and displaying your cold beverages, this transparent ice bucket will do the job! We are impressed by the handles, which are ergonomically designed for a firm grasp, making it a breeze to transport a full container.

Furthermore, it is crafted from sturdy plastic that won't crack easily and won't leak. However, given that it does not offer much insulation to keep the ice cubes frozen, we recommend having a bar mop towel on standby to wipe any messes.”

Material: Plastic | Capacity: 8.75 quarts | Manufactured: Taiwan | What’s Included: Ice bucket only

Related: The Best Bar Mop Towels

12. Best Compact: malmo Ice Bucket

Why We Think It’s Great

• GREAT INSULATION: Double-wall stainless steel and thickened lid to keep the inside cold.
• SLEEK DESIGN: The brushed material minimizes fingerprints and maintains the bucket’s elegant copper look.
• TONGS COMPARTMENT: Allows you to conveniently store the tongs inside the lid so they won’t be lost.

What We Don’t Like

• The bolt on the handle falls off.

What Buyers Say

“Everything about this ice bucket is so nice, from how it looks to how well it works. Because it has a double-walled construction, it prevents condensation and damage to the tables and keeps drinks cold for hours! It also looks good on a bar cart or as a present to a loved one.

We also love its seal, which is better than plastic lids. The ice tong storage is so convenient that we got so many compliments on it.”

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 3.2 quarts | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Tongs, lid

Related: The Best Bar Carts

13. Best Versatile: Polder Chill Station

Why We Think It’s Great

• DOUBLE WALL INSULATION: Prevents condensation and drips on surfaces.
• COOLING SLEEVES: Made of stainless steel to maintain the bottle’s temperature.
• TRANSPARENT LIDS: Provides a clear visual of how much ice is left for easy refilling.
• CONVENIENT WIPING RING: Integrated into the bottle compartment to wipe moisture as the bottle is lifted.

What We Don’t Like

• The ice melts quickly.

What Our Editors Say

“Wine cooler or ice bucket? Why choose one when you can have both with this product? Whether you and your guests enjoy wine or liquor, everyone will be accommodated with a perfectly chilled drink.

We appreciate how easy this bucket is to carry around, so it’s excellent for picnics, bbq parties, man caves, etc. It also stays stable and clean, thanks to the non-slip pad at its base and the condensation-free exterior.”

Material: Stainless steel and plastic | Capacity: 3.3 quarts | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: 2 lids, scoop

Related: The Best Wine Cooler Sleeves

14. Most Elegant: Godinger Dublin Ice Bucket

Why We Think It’s Great

• LEAD-FREE CRYSTAL: Thick glass that’s perfectly safe for ice storage and prevents health complications.
• PRISTINE DESIGN: The brilliance and beautiful diamond etchings make it a great display at bars or wine carts.
• GIFTABLE: Perfect as a wedding, bachelorette, housewarming, etc. present.

What We Don’t Like

• There are air bubbles on the glass.

What Our Editors Say

“There is something about a glass container that makes its contents and surroundings more elegant, and it is also the case with this ice bucket. We’re relieved it’s free from lead but still exudes a pretty sparkle.

The glass is very thick and heavy, ensuring that it remains stable. The handles also help lift the bucket and move it to different places. This bucket is perfect for any wine or Champagne bottle and still leaves enough room for the ice.”

Material: Glass | Manufactured: China | What’s Included: Bucket only

Related: The Best Gifts To Newlyweds

15. Best Simple: True Black Ice Bucket

Why We Think It’s Great

• SUFFICIENTLY TALL: Fits any bottle with ease and allows the ice to cool it evenly.
• STURDY HANDLES: Knob-like handles that are easy to grip when lifting the bucket.
• LIGHTWEIGHT: Durable but light plastic, making it easy for transportation.
• CHIC LOOK: Black exterior makes it look simple but elegant.

What We Don’t Like

• It is not insulated.

What Buyers Say

“While this bucket is made of plastic, it is sturdy enough to hold a bottle of wine, and we did not have trouble with it tipping over. We also like that it did not have excess condensation, so our tables were safe from water stains.

Because it is light, it makes it easy to store andfis suitable for traveling. The black design is already nice and clean, but you can customize it with paint, ribbons, etc., to match the whole room.”

Material: Plastic | Capacity: 3 liters | What’s Included: Bucket only

Related: The Best Dry Red Wines

Final Verdict

Whether hosting a formal or casual event, ice buckets will always do a spectacular job of making drinks stay cold. For a quick suggestion, try our top pick - the Fine Dine Ice Bucket. From its classic design to its function, you could say it’s the quintessential ice bucket and a great starting point.

Which ice bucket caught your eye? Please leave a comment below!

Best Ice Buckets Buying Guide

Here are some factors that you can take into account so you can evaluate and choose the right ice bucket for your needs.

• Material

Ice buckets are created with either plastic, stainless steel, or glass. Some may use a combination of these materials, while others only use one.

Stainless steel is the ideal material because it is a good temperature conductor. The ice cubes can melt slower, especially if the stainless steel ice bucket is covered.

On the other hand, some plastic and glass ice buckets are transparent, so you can see the ice and the drinks and know precisely when to refill them. Whatever the material is, a good ice bucket must be durable so it will be put to use for a long time.

• Construction/ Design

Traditional ice buckets have evolved into modern styles, which can contribute to the bucket’s function and form.

A beer expert from The Cask Connoisseur, Luke Slater, says, “It’s important to consider how well insulated the bucket is and if it will keep the ice chilled for an extended time.”

Stainless steel buckets are usually double-walled to provide insulation, but you can also find those with triple insulation designs. The lids also contribute to keeping the ice frozen.

Moreover, when filled with a lot of ice, ice buckets can become heavy. But, to make your life easier, they are designed with handles for easy carriage and transportation. Make sure that the handles are convenient and can carry the weight of the bucket and the contents.

“You also want to consider the design of the bucket and whether or not it matches the decor of your home,” Slater adds. You can find many styles of ice buckets and beverage tubs that can accentuate your bars, from sleek exteriors to hammered textures.

• Size

One of the ice buckets' primary purposes is to hold as much ice as possible to reduce the time and effort of going back and forth to get more ice. It would be best to look for a larger ice bucket to serve as many people as possible.

It also depends on what you're putting in the ice bucket. If you put soda or beer bottles in, then opt for a large ice bucket or beverage tub. If you're using it for wine bottles or for whiskey on the rocks, you can choose a small ice bucket.

• Price

There are a lot of great deals on the market when it comes to ice buckets. Price is associated with quality, so make sure you pick functional ones worth their price.

Most ice buckets come with ice tongs to quickly pick up ice. Others also have lids and filters for better temperature retention. These accessories add significant value and convenience to the bucket itself.

Best Ice Buckets FAQ

1. How long will ice last in an ice bucket?

Ice will last, depending on the type of ice bucket. If it is closed with a lid and has double-walled insulation, ice can last for about 10 hours or more. The size of the ice cubes is also a factor.

The bigger they are, the slower they'll melt. Ice in buckets or tubs that are left exposed to air (those without lids) is more likely to melt faster.

2. Should you add water to an ice bucket?

An ice bucket has two functions: cool a bottled drink, and hold ice cubes until they are transferred into a glass. If you are to chill bottles of wine, Champagne, or beer, it is okay to add water with the ice cubes to make the vessel a colder environment for the drinks.

But if you're drinking whiskey, which needs ice cubes in the glass, there's no need to add water to the ice bucket. Some ice buckets have filters so the ice does not soak in the meltwater. The idea here is to keep the ice frozen until consumed.

3. Why do you put salt in an ice bucket?

This tactic is only applicable to the first purpose of ice buckets, as mentioned just previously. Besides adding water, people also found that adding salt into the mix can make the ice cubes melt faster and make them colder.

When salt comes into contact with ice cubes, it lowers the freezing point from 0°C to about -21°C. So, the water molecules become imbalanced, and heat/energy is absorbed from the environment to fight off the hydrogen that bonds the water molecules together.

4. What is the best insulation to keep ice from melting?

Styrofoam is the best insulator for making the ice melt slower. But its structural integrity doesn't compare to that of metal buckets. With this, you can opt for insulated ice buckets with an airtight lid.

Why Trust Advanced Mixology?

We believe that our readers should have access to unbiased, well-informed reviews when deciding which products to buy, and we work hard to provide that type of content. Our editorial team is experienced and passionate about mixology and bar equipment. In addition, we often consult with industry professionals when gathering information, which gives us an insider's perspective on the products we're reviewing.

Read Next: The Best LED Ice Buckets

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