A working ice maker keeps drinks cold, parties running, and daily life simple — but when your refrigerator's ice maker fails, choosing the right replacement matters. This guide compares top replacement ice makers based on hands-on testing, technical review, and consumer feedback to help you pick the best fit for reliability, compatibility, and ease of installation.
How we tested and selected
We evaluated candidates using a three-pronged approach: real-world testing, expert inspection, and consumer feedback analysis. Real-world testing included bench checks for electrical specs, fill/eject cycles, and physical fit where possible. Expert inspection covered material quality, wiring harness and connector design, and OEM-equivalence. Finally, we reviewed hundreds of user reports and Q&A to verify fitment and common failure modes. Key ranking factors: compatibility, reliability (OEM vs aftermarket), ease of installation, warranty/after-sales, and price-to-performance.
Budget Replacement Icemaker
A straightforward, compact replacement designed to get GE/Café/Hotpoint/Profile refrigerators back to making ice without a big expense. It’s easy to install, compatible with many GE part numbers, and offers basic adjustment controls — ideal for homeowners on a tight budget who need a reliable fix.
Best Budget Pick — Reliable, affordable fix
This Parts Master replacement targets frequent GE part numbers like WR30X10093/10061 and many compatible models. It’s compact (approx. 9.75"D x 5.5"W x 5.5"H), includes an on/off switch and water fill adjustment, and installs quickly for most DIYers. Performance is basic — roughly 2 lb of ice per 24 hours for many compatible refrigerators — but the advantage is price and availability. Expect a quick resolution to common symptoms (no ice, not ejecting, or leaks). Downsides: not an OEM part, so longevity may vary; verify exact model compatibility before buying.
Whirlpool-Style Icemaker
A robust replacement designed for Whirlpool/Kenmore/Amana lines, offering a precise fit for specific part numbers and a low stated operating current. Best for owners of compatible Whirlpool-family refrigerators who want a higher-priced aftermarket option made to match factory fit and operation.
Premium Choice — Designed for Whirlpool-family units
This W11546935-compatible ice maker is aimed at Whirlpool, Kenmore, and Amana refrigerators and advertises factory-style fit and operation. It lists 115V, 60Hz operation and a very low 0.08 A running spec; installation reminders emphasize disconnecting water and power first. Where it stands out is in build intent: it’s made as a direct-fit replacement for OEM references (e.g., W11700250), so harnesses and mounting align closely with factory layouts. Good for buyers who prefer a premium aftermarket part built to match manufacturer tolerances. Caveat: higher price than some alternatives and warranty/support can vary by seller.
4317943 Compatible Icemaker
A broadly compatible upgraded replacement for the 4317943 family, offering extensive cross‑reference compatibility, an upgraded build, and a multi‑year warranty. Good balance of features, price, and compatibility for homeowners with Whirlpool/Kenmore/KitchenAid-era refrigerators.
Best Value — Wide compatibility and upgraded parts
This upgraded 4317943 replacement stands out for an extensive compatibility list (Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, KitchenAid and many part cross-references like 626636, 4210317, 4317943R). It’s marketed as an upgraded assembly with improved materials to withstand frequent cycles, and comes with a 1–2 year warranty depending on seller listing. Installation is standard: cut power/water, swap the assembly, and confirm wiring harness connections — typically a 10–15 minute DIY job. Why it’s great: broad compatibility reduces the chance of a wrong fit, and the warranty/upgrade claims give confidence at a mid-tier price. Trade-offs: aftermarket fit can be less consistent than OEM in some tight mounting situations, so double-check harness and bracket arrangement.
GE OEM Ice Maker
An authentic GE (OEM) WR30X39345 ice maker assembly with auger — manufactured to original standards for best-fit installation and reliable performance. Ideal for owners of compatible GE refrigerators who prioritize long-term reliability and OEM support.
Editor’s Choice — Genuine OEM reliability
The GE WR30X39345 is an authentic OEM ice maker kit that replaces several prior GE part numbers. As a factory part it’s engineered to GE’s quality standards and includes the auger mechanism for built-in dispensers. The OEM advantage: precise fit, tested tolerances, and predictable long-term operation in supported refrigerators. Technical notes: this kit matches GE’s part references and is recommended when exact OEM interchange is listed in your service manual. Downsides: typically higher cost than budget aftermarket parts, and availability can vary. For anyone who wants the safest route to restore ice-making — especially in GE/Café/Hotpoint units — this is the top pick.
Comparison overview
- Best overall (Editor’s Choice): GE WR30X39345 — OEM fit and reliability for GE-family refrigerators.
- Premium Choice: W11546935-compatible assembly — Premium aftermarket for Whirlpool/Kenmore models with close factory-fit features.
- Best Value: 4317943 upgraded assembly — Broad compatibility plus upgraded materials and a seller warranty at a mid-range price.
- Budget Pick: Parts Master replacement — Lowest cost option that restores basic ice-making function for many GE models.
Key differences at a glance:
- Compatibility: Famdinaga 4317943 > Parts Master (many GE models) > W11546935 (Whirlpool-family specific) > GE OEM (GE-family specific)
- Reliability: GE OEM (best) > Premium Whirlpool-style aftermarket > Upgraded 4317943 > Budget Parts Master
- Price: Parts Master (lowest) < Famdinaga < GE OEM < Premium aftermarket
Final recommendation
If you own a GE or GE‑family refrigerator and want the most reliable fix, choose the GE WR30X39345 OEM kit — the editor’s pick for long-term reliability and correct fit. If you have a Whirlpool/Kenmore/Amana refrigerator and prefer an aftermarket premium option, the W11546935-compatible unit is a sensible premium choice. For broad compatibility and the best price-to-features balance, the upgraded 4317943 replacement is the best value. And if you need the cheapest working replacement for common GE models, the Parts Master is a reliable budget fix.
Our recommendations are based on detailed compatibility checks, bench and fit assessments, warranty/support considerations, and user reports. Before purchasing: confirm the exact part number in your refrigerator’s service manual (or remove the old assembly to verify the part label), cut power and water before attempting installation, and if you’re unsure, consult a service technician. Choosing the correct replacement part will restore ice-making quickly and avoid repeated repairs — invest in the option that best matches your model and priorities.