Are you tired of buying large amounts of ice from the store? Can’t wait for the refrigerator to make your ice? Then purchasing a nugget ice maker to keep your summer drinks chilled is the answer for you. Get ready to make instant ice, ready for those summer parties and frozen cocktails
How do you choose the best ice maker for you? To make the process easier we have rounded up the top five, best nugget ice makers for you to choose from. Nugget ice makers vary in size, shape, function, and style. That’s why choosing the best ice maker can be a challenging task. Below we discuss the five best ice makers to help you make the correct decision. Let’s get freezing.
What Is Nugget Ice?
Nugget ice is made using a process whereby layers of flaked ice are frozen together. Creating pockets of air in the pellet ice nuggets, as a result allowing the ice to float. Nugget ice is more chewable and airy and more importantly doesn’t melt as quickly as other traditional crushed ice.
What Is a Nugget Ice Machine?
A nugget ice machine is a technology to make nugget ice at home or kitchen. Powered by an electrical source, the device fits on any counter while the ice is produced. Traditional ice makers freeze water into a hard ice cube over a long period of time. Nugget ice is produced quickly by scraping the ice crystals from a chilled stainless steel cylinder The ice crystals are extruded through a round hole, compacting them into a chewable nugget.
What To Look For Before Buying A Nugget Ice Maker?
Production of Ice
First, look at the production level of ice. If a nugget ice maker produces ice slowly and in small quantities, then that is not an optimal choice as it uses considerably more energy. You will also need to determine the volume of ice you require on a general basis.
Ice Shape
Nugget machines generally produce uniform shapes of ice that are made in the units freezing cylinder. What you want to ensure is that the device produces a consistent size nugget each time. Look out for the reviews regarding this.
Budget
Ice makers generally have a hefty price tag. The machines are costly due to the technology used to create the ice. Choose one that suits your needs, based on how much ice you will generally need and how quickly the machine will produce the ice.
Different Features
Different features can make an ice maker cooler—features like a timer, presetting of the ice, or the ability to be controlled from an app remotely. Many smart machines are designed to have control of water usage. Once again look for a device that suits your needs. Generally, the more features they have the more expensive the unit will be.
Warranty
Countertop ice makers are still a somewhat new technology, and improvements in the technology are made regularly. Make sure the model you buy has a solid warranty and that the company is reputable. This is an investment and you deserve to be covered and protected in case of a factory fault or mechanical failure.
Our Top Picks
Buying Guide & Expert Recommendations Top 5 Nugget Ice Maker
Ge Profile Opal Ice Maker
Do you want the best nugget Ice maker for your home? Then, Ge Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker would be your best choice.
Countertop Size
A compact design ideal for countertop use. Its elegant design and technology make for an appealing unit while producing nugget ice perfectly. Ideal for a large family.
Powerful and Smart
You can get the soft, crunchy nugget size ice within 20 minutes. The shape of the ice is a lot look like a restaurant. You can control the ice maker by the official Ge Profile Opal app.
Material and Portability
The body of the Ge Profile Ice Maker is made from stainless steel and plastic. Does not require to be hooked up to a water connection due to the water reservoir. Making this a portable nugget ice maker.
Features
- Produces a large quantity of ice, suitable for a big family and perfect for the home.
- You can make quality ice nuggets within 20 minutes.
- Bluetooth connection and a dedicated app make it convenient to control the ice maker remotely.
- No need for additional accessories. So, it enhances portability.
- The stainless steel body is very durable and rust-free.
Pros
- Unit is quiet
- Produces crisp ice
- Bluetooth and apps usability
- Stainless steel material
- Portability
Cons
- Slow in comparison to other ice makers
- Very costly to purchase
Why Do We Recommend It?
Ge Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker makes high-quality nugget ice quickly. It is very suitable for both professionals and beginners.
Opal Countertop Nugget Icemaker – Best commercial
The Opal Countertop Nugget Ice Maker is the best commercial nugget ice machine on our list.
Counter Size
The Opal Countertop Ice maker’s counter size is a little bit smaller than Ge Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker. But will make enough ice for your daily demand.
Take Less Time
Opal Countertop Nuggets ice maker takes only 20 minutes to make ice. It is a mighty ice maker and convenient for commercial use like a café, restaurant or small hotel.
Smart and Portable
Bluetooth and a dedicated app are very convenient for controlling the ice maker remotely. The reservoir takes out all unnecessary water from the main chamber after use.
Features
- The operating temperature of the ice maker is 55-to-90-degree F.
- You should use potable water quality (205 ppm) or less mineral capacity.
- A water reservoir is included to take away all excess water from the chamber.
- Bluetooth and a dedicated app make for easy remote operation.
- Like Ge Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker, Opal ice maker takes only 20 min to produce ice.
Pros
- Compact size
- Convenient without touch controller
- Take less time
- Suitable for commercial purposes
- Durable
Cons
- Not suitable for all kinds of water
- The indicator has been know to be faulty
Why Do We Recommend It?
We recommend it for large capacity use, like cafés, restaurants and large homes. It is a genuine commercial ice maker with the perfect shape of an ice nugget.
NewAir Nugget Ice Maker – Best portable
Do you need a portable nugget ice maker? Let us introduce to you the NewAir Nugget Ice Maker. This is the best portable nugget ice maker for you.
Enough Space for Ice
The inner space of the NewAir Ice maker is enormous. It can hold up to 24 lbs. ice cubes at a time. “Nugget ice” is very soft and small in size. Allowing you to produce ice professionally.
Fastest Ice Maker
Most of the ice makers take up to 20 minutes to produce ice. But NewAir Icemaker uses some great technology to make ice quickly. It takes only 12 minutes to turn water into ice.
Compact and Melt-Resistant
NewAir ice maker is very compact in design but has a generous space to hold enough ice. The Ultra-insulated storage container prevents ice melting.
Features
- NewAir Ice Maker takes only 12 minutes to make ice.
- Ultra-insulated storage protects the ice from melting.
- Self-cleaning technology helps to clean the ice maker without hassle.
- BPA-free plastic ensures you that there is no harmful chemical in ice.
- The ice is small in shape and feels soft inside the mouth.
Pros
- Fast ice-making technology
- Melt-resistance wall
- Compact and portable
- Self-cleaning function
- Premium design
Cons
- Fill tube has been known to crack
- Can be noisy
Why Do We Recommend It?
The ideal, portable ice maker to take along for camping, road trips, picnics, and tailgating. We recommend the NewAir Icemaker as the best choice for you.
Scotsman SCN60PA-1SS – Best durable
Do you need a durable ice maker for your home or restaurant? Scotsman SCN60PA-1SS can meet that demand.
Ice Production
The Scotsman SCN60PA1SS has a large ice production capacity, we recommend it for those who need a serious amount of ice on a regular basis. Suitable for commercial use or a large household, if you use ice each day. This ice maker can hold up to 80 lbs. nugget ice at a time.
Material and Durability
The Scotsman ice maker is made from stainless steel. The body is stylish and easy to clean, designed to be durable.
Features
- A generous 80-pound ice-making capacity per day.
- A full 24-hour period operating cycle.
- Designed using an air condenser refrigerant method.
- Store up to 26 pounds of ice in this model.
- It has a self closed front door.
- Has an interior light to illuminate the interior
- It produces nugget-shaped ice. Nugget ice is softer and more chewable than standard ice.
- It has a one-year warranty directly from Scotsman.
- Runs quietly for a unit of its size but it may get louder with use over time.
- Can start producing nuggets in as little as 10 mins
- Has an LED indicator light to alert you when it is time to clean the unit.
Pros
- Stainless steel body
- Fast ice-making system
- User-friendly interface
- Powerful pump
- Long-lasting condenser
Cons
- Maintenance is difficult
- Built-in and under-counter use only
- Not portable
- Can be noisy
Why Do We Recommend It?
Durability is the main feature of this ice maker and its large capacity for ice production. Ideal for users who require ice on-demand and in large quantities.
FRIGIDAIRE EFIC235-AMZ Ice Maker – Best beginner choice
Frigidaire Ice Maker is very popular for its ice-making ability. It is effortless to use for a beginner.
Size
Frigidaire Icemaker has an elegant design and well sized for any countertop. This medium size countertop unit provides a compact design, but it can hold enough ice for daily use.
Fast and Powerful
Within 15 minutes, you will enjoy soft, crunchy ice, ideal for your home kitchen.
Automatic and High Capacity
Frigidaire Icemaker can produce 44 lbs. ice per day and holds 3 lbs. of ice at a time. If the ice melts, the water is collected by a reservoir to turn it into ice again.
Features
- The stainless-steel body is durable and rust-free.
- You can place the ice maker on any countertop.
- Accessories like Icemaker, Side tank, Ice Bin, Ice Scoop, and drip tray are included.
- It takes only 15 minutes to make ice.
- The ice production ability is 44 lbs. ice per day and can hold 3 lbs. ice.
Pros
- Optimum countertop size
- Quick and powerful
- High capacity
- Automatic ice making capability
- Portable ice maker
Cons
- Cleaning is complicated
- Needs to be placed on a drip mat for errant ice nuggets
Why Do We Recommend It?
The most innovative feature of the Frigidaire ice maker is the straightforward user interface. It is very suitable for beginner or non-professional people.
When should we buy an ice cube machine?
The most significant reasons for considering purchasing an ice cube machine are a lack of space and human forgetfulness. Now let’s look at why this is the case and when it may be worth buying such a machine in additional situations.
If you want flavorless ice cubes
One of the significant drawbacks of ice cubes manufactured conventionally is that they often overpower the flavor and scent of other items stored in the freezer. As a result, it’s not unusual for ice cubes to absorb the taste of other food stored in the fridge or freezer and ruin your favorite beverages’ pleasure.
This cannot happen in an ice maker machine since if freshwater is poured into the device, the ice will not contact anything else. You can be sure to obtain flavorless and fragrance-free ice cubes, which are a must-have for high-quality beverages or cocktails.
In case of lack of space
Cold beverages are popular all year, however, many people enjoy cold beverages in the spring and fall. On the other hand, few people do not have a big refrigerator that can be used to keep a variety of soft drinks and other beverages chilled in larger amounts.
It’s far easier to have an ice maker instead of filling your fridge with cubes, which you’ll have to throw away after a few days. Of course, we can also consider the ice cubes with bags, which always allow us to fill our freezer, but they take up so much space that they cannot be considered a good idea of a tiny refrigerator.
If we are forgetful
Forgetfulness has little to do with ice cube machines, right? Surprisingly, a lot! Surely many individuals want an iced drink when they get home from work, but they are frequently confronted with the fact that they forget to put the conventional ice cube-making compartments in the freezer.
In this example, we either wait a few hours, which is rather far from reality, or we give in to common sense and make some new ice for our drink with the aid of an ice maker machine in a few minutes. Practical, quick, and comfortable, or perfectly suited to our fast-paced existence!
If you like cocktails
Ice cubes and shattered ice are an essential part of many cocktails, so if you enjoy preparing delicious mixed beverages or long drinks at home, an ice maker machine is a must-have.
No one knows in advance when you’ll want a Margarita or a Pina Colada, so while the components are being prepared, fill the machine with as much water as it takes for a refreshing drink.
If you have a lot of unexpected visitors
If you want to be a good host, this is extremely important. Apart from such a machine, all we have to do now is fill it with water, switch it on, and provide the ice-cooled beverages or cocktails to guests who unexpectedly showed up.
How do ice cube makers operate? What’s the mechanism behind ice maker machines?
In general, ice maker machines are pretty simple to use, and we have nothing more to do with them than ice racks in the freezer except that they are considerably faster.
Most ice cube machines, by type, are operated as follows:
- The machines must first be filled with clean tap water or mineral water. If you want to speed up the process, it is worth using cold water for it.
- Once we’ve filled the tank, all we have to do is wait patiently until the first ice cubes are ready.
- Depending on the technique and circumstances of usage, it might take anywhere from 30 to 40 minutes for the first batch to be prepared.
Three useful tips for running an ice cube making machine
- If you want large, solid ice cubes that are more frozen, plan on running the machine several hours ahead of time to guarantee a successful outcome.
- If you’re serving a large group with the ice cube maker, don’t wait for it to drain entirely; it’s better to fill the cold water on it frequently so that new ice cubes are created faster.
- If you want to have a single drink and want ice cubes that are a little quicker, fill the water tank halfway. In this situation, the device finishes faster, so we can generally add fresh ice to our glass in 15-20 minutes.
What type of ice maker should we buy?
Purpose of use
If you’re looking to buy an ice cube maker, its purpose is the first and most essential thing to think about. In this area, you have two alternatives:
- If you buy the ice maker for home use. In such a scenario, we can use virtually any of the equipment suggested above if we only need to make ice in small amounts for non-industrial purposes, but we enjoy iced beverages and like to drink cocktails or whisky throughout the year, for example. Since they are not cheap products, always consider whether you will take advantage of the tool when shopping for home use. For many, buying a bag of ice on warmer summer days can be more than enough for the traditional ice maker. So let’s always think carefully about what we would use the machine for.
- If you buy the ice maker for catering purposes. In this case, of course, the above items will not always be sufficient. It is not worth considering them since there are solutions on the market suitable for industrial production that can produce more ice in a shorter amount of time without stopping.
Quantity of ice cubes that can be made
If we decide that we need an ice cube maker, finding the answers to these questions will be critical: how strong is the machine we’re purchasing, and how many ice cubes can produce? The amount of ice cubes may generally show that this product type can make.
Manufacturers typically record this number as the total ice we can make with that unit in 24 hours. Even at the entry level, solutions with a power of 11-17 pounds are typical, while machines in the higher category can produce up to 22-33 lb of ice per day.
In general, therefore, if you require a lot of ice, premium alternatives would be preferable; whereas if less is enough, entry or mid-range products will be suitable for us.
Size of the water tank
The size of the water tank is also crucial when picking an ice maker. It determines how much ice a device can create in a given amount of time, and it’s just as important as the quantity of Ice generation capacity. The two are nearly directly linked, therefore increasing water tank size means improved performance, while reducing the tank size means fewer ice cubes.
Most ice makers have a 2-3 liter water tank, but there are notable variations between the various types because this amount is more than enough when used at home. Industrial ice cube makers rarely use tanks instead of taking water straight from the mains.
Size of the ice tank
It’s critical to pay attention when selecting an ice-making machine to figure out how much ice tank it has. This is because most consumers are more concerned with the water tank or the number of pounds of ice a device can make rather than how much ice the device may store at once.
A machine may produce more than 22 pounds of ice in 24 hours, but it can only keep up to 2 pounds at once. As a result, performance is not as significant if the equipment isn’t emptied regularly, i.e., even if you turn it on the day before, it won’t make any ice.
Nowadays, most ice cube machines for home use are capable of storing 1.6-2 pounds of ice at the same time, and there is only a very minimal difference.
External properties
Size of the ice making machine
Even though the market is small, i.e., there are few ice cube machines on store shelves, the size of the device in question will still be a major element to consider because there will be smaller and even portable models and models with greater capacity depending on performance.
It is always up to us how much we choose for ourselves. There are two things to think about, which are:
- Power, i.e., how often we want to use the machine and how much ice we want to produce with it because we want a compact device in vain if we need several kilos of ice every day.
- The feature of our kitchen, i.e., we would like a larger machine in vain if it does not fit anywhere in the given room, while it is extremely tiring to pack it in the closet after each use.
Product design, material use
Everyone likes to have a good look in their kitchen, and the room has a uniform overall effect. Fortunately, for most ice cube machines, manufacturers have taken great care to keep everything in place in this area.
The machines are available in black or silvery gray, which is universally associated with the modern style. Of course, because the devices are mostly constructed of plastic and feature few metals, they are light, stunningly designed, and characterized mainly by cleanliness without exception.
In general, the ice-making machines have a transparent surface on the upper part of the machine that is usually constructed of solid plastic and gives insight into the tank to check how much ice is in it.
Size and shape of ice cubes
When it comes to ice makers, the form and size of the final product are also important. It’s critical to select an ice cube maker with this in mind because different-sized ice cubes have varying amounts of usefulness. It’s also crucial to consider what size and shape your finished product will be.
Most ice cube makers have at least two options, making them suitable for making at least one smaller and larger ice, but some tools have a more diverse palette.
Larger ice cubes are good for more complex cooling jobs, such as putting them in buckets, cooling bottles, and food. Smaller pieces can be used to chill beverages if you want a cold drink or a nice cocktail.
The ice cube has a wide range of products in terms of shape, but in practice, it is not particularly important that a traditional cube, triangle, cylinder, or even ball-shaped final product is produced in the device.
Important accessories and features
In addition to everything that has been said above, certain accessories and characteristics are also necessary. These are, in a broad general sense, considered.
Shovel
A handy shovel that is ergonomically designed for exhaustion and fits perfectly with the ice cube maker would be pretty helpful to have on hand. There’s no need to get downhearted even if the manufacturer doesn’t include one because spoons and other household items work well enough.
Timer
The timer has become a standard feature on more and more ice cube makers, yet it may still be worth paying attention to if for no other reason than because, in certain circumstances, it might make our lives simpler.
You can also use the timer to program the machine to start making ice cubes several hours before you get home or begin your party, ensuring that you have plenty of refreshing ice ready when you finish your job or when the party starts.
Lights and sounds
It’s also a good idea to double-check that the selected ice maker includes a range of lights and sounds so we can always make the most of it.
It’s crucial since, as previously said, lights and sounds can signal if the water tank or ice maker is empty or whether the latter has filled, and the ice-making process is halted because we may not be able to monitor.
Control panel
Most manufacturers try to develop a single, simple-to-use ice cube maker since no one likes complicated mechanisms. The control panel is one of the essential accessories, which always includes some easier controls and a smaller display in the case of superior machines.
The ice cube maker does not need a monitor, but the buttons surrounding it are crucial, so they have at least one power button on and off and the ability to alter the size of the ice cube. They may be deemed basic in terms of operation, with everything else being superfluous.
Major Benefits of Nugget Ice Makers
- A nugget ice maker will give you chewable airy ice.
- It makes nugget ice very quickly for your drinks.
- You will get a perfect size of nugget ice at any time.
- You don’t need to wait for the refrigerator to make ice.
- A nugget ice maker is a convenient and smart gadget for the kitchen.
- Some nugget ice makers are designed for hospital or clinic usage.
Why Are Nugget Ice Makers So Expensive?
Nugget ice is a different shape produced from traditional ice machines. The main property of the nugget ice is its chewable and soft texture. The technology and compressor used to make the ice form the more costly part of the production of such units. Thus leaving the finished product with a heavy price tag.
Ice makers in general require more power to make ice. However, the monthly power-consuming depends on usage could be around 350kWh. Making it pretty costly.
FAQ
Is an ice maker worth it?
If you don’t want to buy the ice from the store or you don’t want to wait for your refrigerator, then an ice maker would be worth it for you.
What is the best nugget ice machine?
GE Profile Opal Amazing Countertop Nugget Ice Maker is the best nugget ice maker.
Can you make sonic ice at home?
Sonic ice is also called the nugget ice. There are a range of machines that suit budgets for home use
Is chewing Nugget Ice bad for your teeth?
Yes, chewing the ice is bad for your teeth. Not only for the teeth but also chewing ice is harmful to enamel and gum.
Is nugget ice good for mixed drinks?
Nugget ice is not perfect for every kind of drink as it has a tendency to melt quicker.
Why is an ice-making machine better than traditional methods?
There are two main reasons for this:
- Most ice makers are straightforward machines, so they can quickly produce ice even in the timed version. As a result, if we need it fast, many times such a machine will be able to generate new ice cubes for us within minutes.
- Hygiene, cleanliness are also two crucial aspects. This is interpreted to imply that ice cubes in a freezer may absorb unpleasant scents. On the other hand, an ice maker is certain to produce tasteless and odorless pieces of ice.
What can ice created by an ice maker be used for?
Basically, the machine is capable of producing ice that meets all your needs. You can make any shape or size of ice cubes you desire. The ice produced by this method is so clean, flavorless, and odorless that it will not affect the aroma of cocktails or high-quality beverages, so anybody who enjoys high-quality booze should use the ice maker.
In addition, of course, the ice cubes produced in it may be utilized for a variety of purposes, so it’s primarily used to refrigerate and chill a variety of meals and beverages.
How can I know if the ice cubes are frozen enough?
This is another aspect that tends to confuse people because there is no fixed answer here. The best way to test them would be to insert one of your fingers into the cube and feel it with your skin. If it seems cold, this means it’s ready.
Can ice mush be made with the ice maker?
We do this indirectly through the use of a food processor. There is no grinder in the ice makers, which would allow us to get ice mush simply by pressing a button, but we do it indirectly. All required is to pour the pieces into a blender and blend them until we get the desired result.
Who is the ice cube maker best suited for?
This is a big time-saver for those who enjoy ice-cooled beverages and snacks all year, constantly deal with bigger businesses, host parties and gatherings where they frequently run out of ice!
It’s a wonderful option if we’re forgetful, but it’s not insignificant either if we prefer cocktails or drink high-quality beverages for which high purity, flavorless ice is required.
What is the cost of an ice maker?
If we want ice cube machines for home usage, entry-level solutions are available on the market today, starting at $130. This is not cheap, but it will undoubtedly be profitable if we use or consume a lot of ice.
The better machines typically cost between $400 and $800, although many far more costly choices. Of course, the price of industrial ice manufacturing equipment is astronomical, but bars and restaurants are the only customers in this category.
Is it worth buying an ice cube machine?
A particularly common question about the product category is whether it is worth buying the ice maker or not?
Basically, there is no adequate answer to this since it is a question of individual preference. If we have the money, if we can do it, if we can take advantage of it in everyday life, it will definitely return the price, but let us not forget that it is an expensive thing that represents an unnecessary luxury for many.
There are many less expensive options if you enjoy a glass of cold soft drinks at night or want ice cubes in the hot summer sun.
However, if the whole family is hooked on ice beverages, if we need ice cubes every day, or if we are obsessed with high-end alcoholic drinks – which must be served with ice – there can be no doubt that such an investment will pay off handsomely.
How easy is it to clean ice makers?
An important issue is especially important for all devices working with water, such as ice maker machines. Fortunately, the manufacturers of the machines have also shown great attention in this area, so most of them are designed to be easy to access the parts where the device comes into contact with water or to highlight these elements entirely, but it is increasingly common that we have nothing to do with cleaning.
Many manufacturers now use a special self-cleaning solution within their machines, so we have to start the cleaning program that we do not have to worry about mold, unpleasant deposits, and more.
How many ice cubes can these machines produce?
Performance varies greatly for the ice-making machines. At the entry-level, 11-17 pounds of ice production within a 24-hour cycle is extremely good, but some models can produce up to 22-33 lb of ice in a day. We rarely need more than that when we use it at home.
Devices for industrial use can guarantee many times this, some machines produce up to 220-330 pounds of ice in 24 hours, but under normal conditions, a household does not need this amount of ice production.
How long does it take to make an ice cube for a machine like this?
The ice cubes produced by an ice maker are determined in large part by their performance. Some versions can produce a few ice cubes in a matter of minutes, but others take 15-20 minutes to finish the first dose. This feature should be considered before purchasing an ice maker.
Final Verdict
Nugget ice is growing in popularity among home users and restaurants. The cost however of acquiring a commercial nugget ice maker is proving to be a barrier to its availability despite its high demand.
This article will help you find a suitable option for your needs. We have listed a more affordable and portable alternative to the more expensive commercial ice makers.
Out of the five ice makers we have reviewed the GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker is the best ice maker in our opinion. Its quick and smart technology brings the ice machine top of the list.
Last update on 2021-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API