Who doesn’t love nugget, pellet, or for us Americans, Sonic ice? Wouldn't you love to be able to have it for all of your drinks each and every day?
Below we have curated a list of the best nugget ice makers on the market. These countertop models will keep loads of small, crunchy pellet ice cubes to use in everything from your water bottles to cocktails for you and everyone you want to entertain! "Sonic ice makers" are compact, easy to use, and perfect for the home or office. Plus, they make enough of the best nugget ice in a single day to keep your ice dispenser stocked up all weekend long.
You know that perfect crunchy texture we were just talking about? Well, now you can have the best nugget ice at your home or office all of the time with one of these Sonic ice makers currently available on the market today. They are fast, efficient, and reliable – so you can focus on what really matters (like enjoying the drink you are making).
Continue reading below to discover the best nugget ice maker you can buy today, and you can cheers to enjoying nugget ice makers and cool drinks every day to come!
THE PROCESS
After countless hours of nugget ice machine research and plenty of fun experimenting, our team has compiled a list of the best pellet ice makers on the market, and we are confident in promoting them to even the most discerning mixologist. Whether you prefer a classic cocktail with nugget ice or something more adventurous, we believe you will find one of the "Sonic ice makers" below to be invaluable in shaking things up.
So, get creative and try something new - nugget ice is here to stay and who doesn't love the sound of that?
THE OPINION
Newair's Nugget Ice Maker is the perfect stainless steel appliance for making restaurant-quality ice at home. This nugget ice maker rivals the quality ice and storage capacity of more expensive brands, which is why we selected it as the best overall nugget ice maker.
It is incredibly easy to use, even for those without experience - simply turn the nugget ice machine on and choose your desired ice size. Clear indicator lights let you know when the ice is ready, taking all the guesswork out of the ice-making process.
Best of all, you can see the full pellet ice production with ease through Newair's top window into the ice bin - in as little as 10 minutes! Newair offers quality that you can taste and serve up convenience that you can trust.
THE FACTS
Never worry about running out of ice again with Newair's Nugget Ice Maker! The Newair ice maker produces up to 30 pounds of ice per day, ensuring that your entire family has enough ice for whatever your needs are. Its compact footprint provides convenience while taking up minimal space - measuring 9.69 inches by 16.93 inches.
With a self-cleaning function included to keep out impurities, this counter ice maker guarantees a clean flavor with every pound of ice. As an added benefit, this "sonic ice maker" comes with a removable ice basket along with a handy ice scoop!
In terms of versatility, the Newair ice machine offers two different ways to refill the water. The manual option is to remove the side tank to fill up the water reservoir each time the water tank runs dry. If you want to opt for the automatic option and have a direct water hookup, then the ice maker can be attached directly to a water line.
The Newair nugget ice maker has attracted quite a lot of attention lately due to its reputation as one of the quietest ice machines on the market. Many reviews describe the sound as being somewhere in between a dishwasher and a heavily humming appliance, which with time will fade into the background. Despite this low noise level, users have noted that the Newair machine is still able to produce quality ice that rivals ice at the likes of Sonic or Chick-fil-A.
THE VERDICT
We feel like this Newair unit provides the best nugget ice machine for what it costs. This countertop ice maker can be greatly appreciated by anyone who has tried to replicate the signature crisp and crunchy ice in the past.
THE OPINION
The GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker 2.0 is a top-of-the-line nugget ice machine, ie the Mercedes-Benz of countertop ice makers available on the market today. The GE Opal stainless steel countertop nugget ice maker serves up chewable, crunchy ice at lightning speed without compromising on flavor or purity.
Don't worry about sacrificing speed for quality – GE's advanced ice-making technology produces top-notch pellet ice. The Opal nugget ice maker includes an advanced self-cleaning system to keep your ice production mold and mildew-free thanks to the product's built-in UV light and optional cleaning kit. Not only that, but its LED display and self-cleaning system ensure optimal performance without requiring extensive maintenance.
From the unique front-load ice basket to built-in voice control, GE has really pushed the boundaries of a counter ice maker with this product and makes it easy to see why GE Opal 2.0 is a cut above the rest!
THE FACTS
The GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker is one of the most impressive products available on the market. It's 3-pound storage ice bin capacity and production capacity of 24 pounds of ice per day sets this unit apart from most competitors. Unlike traditional hard cubes, the Opal ice maker creates its pebble ice by compacting flake ice to prevent your beverages from turning into watery messes while each ice cube melts away.
The cherry on top is that this product includes an additional side tank for water, which helps make the most out of this extraordinary machine by reducing the need for frequent water refills each day and increasing ice production by three times the standard rates due to the built-in water reservoir.
With its sleek stainless steel design and plenty of smart features, this device is sure to elevate any kitchen or home bar. It boasts both an LED display for intuitive control and accessible voice control capabilities through Alexa and Google. Plus it can be connected to Wi-Fi so you can control the internal light and set a schedule for when the ice will be ready.
The vendor also provides you with the below map of the United States to show you how often you should descale the GE Opal countertop nugget ice machines for the best taste and efficiency depending on where you live:
The only major drawback, outside of its high price point, we found is it does have a large footprint (17.5"D x 13.43"W x 16.5"H) compared to other countertop models on the market today.
THE VERDICT
With its surplus of technological features and an oversized side water tank, GE's Profile Opal 2.0 nugget ice maker is sure to delight any consumer looking for a splurge.
THE OPINION
EUHOMY is the go-to product for those seeking convenience and ease of use when it comes to nugget ice machines. Not only do they go on sale often, but the footprint of their ice machine can be significantly smaller than most. Just think about all that counter space you'll save in your kitchen or bar area!
This new and upgraded stainless steel machine produces amazing pellet ice. Soft and airy, nugget ice is ideal for cooling drinks quickly due to its unique size. Plus, not only does it cool down refreshments quickly, but because of how soft it is, you can enjoy chewing without having to worry about hurting your teeth. What's more, because of the way the airy ice is made, the ice can absorb the flavor of your drink so you can enjoy a fantastic taste as well.
If you're looking to beat the heat of summer and lay back with a tasty and cold drink, EUHOMY has got your back!
THE FACTS
EUHOMY's nugget ice machine offers the ultimate convenience by being able to produce 30 pounds of ice per day with no fuss! Combine that with the 3.3 lbs of ice that can be stored in its ice basket, and this product becomes a true powerhouse.
The machine is extremely versatile and is equipped with two different ways to refill water based on your needs. If you have a water supply nearby, the ice maker can be directly connected to your water line saving time using automatic refilling technology. If connecting to a water supply is not an option for you, this ice maker also has a convenient 3-quart water reservoir for manually refilling.
Another key benefit of the EUHOMY ice maker is its self-cleaning capability which helps prevent limescale and odors. All you need to do is press the "Clean" button on the ice maker for more than 3 seconds in order to enter the "Self Cleaning Program" prior to making the first batch of ice.
EUHOMY has been highly praised for its excellent customer service despite the machine being reported to have occasional issues. Reviews indicate that response to complaints about the machine is prompt and that EUHOMY staff are willing to go above and beyond to create a satisfactory experience for the owners of their ice machines. To ensure that your machine continues performing as expected, EUHOMY highly recommends investing in their 5-year protection package, which can provide extra peace of mind that you won't be left stranded if anything happens to your ice machine down the road.
THE VERDICT
At a great price point, this EUHOMY stainless steel ice machine will quickly become your go-to appliance if you require plenty of delicious, crunchy, and fresh ice every day!
THE OPINION
The Thereye nugget ice maker is a bucket list appliance for any kitchen.
If you are looking for nugget ice that's perfect for crunching and chewing, but don't want to head to a local Sonic or invest in bulky, expensive nugget ice makers for home, then look no further. The Thereye stainless steel nugget ice maker is sleek, compact, and comes with a host of features to make sure your nugget-loving experience is as seamless as possible.
It's designed to produce small and very chewable nuggets of ice that are perfect for anything from an ordinary glass of cool water to a refreshing smoothie or tasty cocktail. Its compact and portable design makes it easy to move around and store when not in use, but don’t let its size fool you- it is capable of producing up to 30 pounds of ice per day, ideal for most households and small gatherings.
THE FACTS
The Thereye has a smaller countertop footprint, with the dimensions coming in at 17.63"D x 10.43"W x 17.72"H. The ice machine produces its pebble ice by compacting flake ice to make soft, chewable nuggets. It also includes an ice scoop and starts making ice in 15 minutes, allowing you to get started using it soon after plugging your own personal "Sonic ice maker" in!
On top of that, you get all the conveniences Thereye's technology provides without any noise disturbance due to its reasonably quiet operation. A smart IR sensor detects if the non-refrigerated ice basket is full, plus there's an “Add Water" button that will flash to inform you that the water supply is running low. The Thereye ice machine also has an included 10-foot water hookup hose and a 3-quart water reservoir to make sure your nuggets are always refreshingly cold.
With a built-in ice storage capacity that can hold up to 3.3 lbs of ice at a time, this nugget ice maker even has a self-cleaning function for hassle-free maintenance, as well as a simple control panel so you won’t feel overwhelmed trying to figure it out.
Plus its self-cleaning function and user-friendly control panel make it easy to use and adhere to the recommended cleaning schedule the manufacturer provided below:
Thereye nugget ice makers are great for ice enthusiasts, but they do come with some drawbacks. The ice nuggets can be inconsistent in size and shape, which may pose a problem to those looking for shapes that fit their cup. Additionally, it can take a while for these machines to produce a full bin of ice as the water needs to pass through a cooling cycle before it is ready. Taking these considerations into account, Thereye nugget ice maker might not be perfect for everyone but is a great option nonetheless if you truly enjoy nugget ice.
THE VERDICT
With a small footprint, large ice storage capacity, and a stylish view into the ice bin, the stainless steel Thereye makes quality ice and looks great on your countertop.
Best Self-Dispensing Nugget Ice Maker
KBice Self-Dispensing Countertop Nugget Ice Maker 2.0
THE OPINION
The KBice self-dispensing nugget ice maker is one of the newest and most innovative nugget ice machines on the market. This ice maker is designed for personal use, offering a convenient and hassle-free way to make the irresistibly soft and crunchy nugget ice you know and love from your favorite restaurants.
All it takes is distilled, bottled, or reverse-osmosis (RO) water and within 30 minutes to an hour, this unit from KBice will have produced pounds of ice for your beverage of choice. KBice features a one-touch, self-dispensing design that ensures a clean and mess-free experience every time.
This KBice stainless steel unit is an excellent option for those looking to make ice quickly and quietly. It offers many benefits, with its compact size and lightweight design, KBice's ice machines fit perfectly in a closed butler’s pantry or bar area—perfect for keeping it out of the way and not disrupting guests with constant noise. KBice takes the guesswork out of ice-making by quickly and efficiently producing fresh ice.
THE FACTS
The KBice self-dispensing countertop model provides a perfect solution for homes or offices that need ample nugget ice production in a convenient countertop size. This powerful machine produces up to 32 lbs of ice per day with an internal ice storage capacity of 2 pounds, so you can enjoy refreshing nugget ice any time without having to refill it.
We did find that the ice maker maxing out at 2 lbs of ice is on the smaller end of the storage capacity available on the market, but is on the larger ice bin capacity for the self-dispensing countertop models.
Plus, the KBice has an innovative dispense button that dispenses pellet ice straight into your glass with just the press of a button. Moreover, this ice machine has a smart and convenient LED touch panel and an effortless self-cleaning function that takes only 30 minutes making this intelligent device even more user-friendly and worry-free. All these benefits in one unit measuring only 12 inches wide by 16 inches deep by 17.5 inches high!
However, as there is only an option for a manually filled water tank on the unit, which holds 100 fluid ounces at a time, the KBice could potentially take convenience to the next level by having an option for a direct connection to a water supply so that the ice maker can automatically fill without any manual effort.
THE VERDICT
For those looking for the convenience of a self-dispensing nugget ice maker at home, the KBice gives you plenty of options to quickly share the joy of delicious nugget ice with others.
THE OPINION
The AGLUCKY nugget ice machine is a game-changer for any nugget ice lover. With its set of color options designed to match any kitchen and efficient performance, it brings the joy of chewable nugget ice right into your home.
It produces a consistent supply of high-quality ice, perfect for refreshing drinks and creating delectable frozen treats. Whether you're hosting a party or simply want to enjoy a cold beverage, this ice machine is a reliable companion.
Additionally, the machine operates quietly, allowing you to enjoy its benefits without any unnecessary noise disturbances. The intuitive control panel and LED indicators make it easy to navigate and monitor the ice-making process, ensuring you have ice whenever you need it.
Say goodbye to running to the store for bagged ice or settling for inferior ice cubes – the AGLUCKY nugget ice machine brings the joy of restaurant-quality ice to your fingertips.
THE FACTS
What sets this countertop unit from AGLUCKY apart from the rest is its remarkable speed. With a quick start time of just 7 minutes, you won't have to wait long for your first batch of ice. It's capable of producing up to 33 pounds of ice per day, ensuring you never run out during those hot summer days.
The AGLUCKY nugget ice machine is equipped with a powerful compressor, which efficiently cools the water, creates ice flakes, and transforms them into perfectly formed nugget ice. The machine has a compact footprint, making it ideal for small kitchens, offices, or even RVs. Its large water reservoir can hold up to 1.1 liters, minimizing the need for frequent refills.
This countertop model also has a built-in sensor that automatically stops ice production when the basket is full or when water levels are low, preventing any potential overflow or damage. Cleaning the machine is a breeze, thanks to its detachable components and the self-cleaning function that takes roughly 15 minutes to complete. Overall, this ice maker is designed to be user-friendly and hassle-free.
In our research, the one downside to the product that we consistently noticed was that the ice storage capacity was smaller than other products. The ice basket has a capacity of 1.5 pounds, as compared to other units we reviewed with a capacity greater than 3 pounds of ice.
THE VERDICT
Its stylish design and fast ice production make the AGLUCKY a standout option in its category whether you're hosting gatherings, enjoying drinks at home, or just adding a touch of luxury to your office space.
Countertop Nugget Ice Maker FAQ
It's summertime and living is easy, but it's not so easy to conveniently keep your drinks cold without resorting to ice cubes that water down your drinks or freezer-burned ice.
Let's face it, regular ice cubes just don't cut it when you're trying to beat the heat. They water down your drink and they melt too quickly.
With countertop "Sonic ice makers", you can have high-quality ice in minutes. These small appliances are compact and fit on your kitchen counter or bar, so a refreshing drink is an ice scoop away.
We have gathered the most frequently asked questions for you to easily help you find a countertop pellet ice maker that is perfect for you!
What are the best nugget ice makers for home or office?
- Best Overall: Newair Nugget Ice Maker
- Best Splurge: GE Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker
- Best for the Budget: Euhomy Nugget Ice Maker
- Most Sleek: Thereye Nugget Ice Maker
- Best Self-Dispensing: KBice 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker
- Fastest Ice Producer: AGLUCKY Nugget Ice Maker
Is the nugget ice maker worth it?
A nugget ice maker is an investment worth making for anyone who likes crunching on ice. Made from compressed flake ice, each ice cube is much softer than traditional crushed or cubed ice, and it melts much slower than other types, which can make the beverages you serve with it last longer.
With nugget ice, also known as Sonic ice or pellet ice, in your home—or at your office—you'll always have access to this unique type of ice that's quickly becoming a fan favorite. Also, having pounds of ice available at your next party doesn't sound so bad either.
Nugget ice makers are easy to use and require minimal upkeep, so you can just choose how to add water, from a manual water tank or an automatic water hookup, and let the machine take care of the rest!
Is nugget ice the same as Sonic ice?
Although nugget ice and Sonic ice are essentially the same product, nugget ice is what companies generally refer to as such since "Sonic" is trademarked. In fact, nugget ice is distinct in that it has a softer chewable texture because the nugget ice maker or "Sonic ice maker" grinds up flakes or pellets of ice - hence the name nugget or pellet. It should not be confused with crushed ice which is made with larger pieces of frozen water.
When looking for nugget-style ice, be sure to purchase a nugget ice maker to get this unique and enjoyable frozen treat!
Can I leave my nugget ice maker on all the time?
A nugget ice maker is highly capable of running 24/7, meaning it will keep creating nugget ice as long as it has a full water tank and room in the ice bin.
While these ice machines can certainly handle the full volume of production all day, every day, it's still a good idea to shut off the unit manually when it's not actively being used. This can help reduce energy costs in your kitchen.
What is so special about nugget ice?
If you're a fan of nugget ice, then you already know that it's definitely worth investing in your own nugget ice maker.
The nugget ice-making process involves layers of flaked ice being compressed and frozen together, with the air pockets created adding a tasteful level of chewiness to this type of ice.
In contrast, crushed ice is made from larger cubes that have been broken down into a more jagged finish without air separating the water molecules. It is not as soft as nugget ice, but it can still provide that refreshingly cold sensation to drinks or snacks when those warmer summer temperatures start to draw near.
Is cubelet ice the same as nugget ice?
Cubelet ice, known by its equally popular names nugget ice or "Sonic ice", has taken over the world. It is tiny, chewy pellets of compressed ice flakes, and is a favorite amongst people of all ages - from quick service restaurants to hospitals and even schools. What makes nugget ice so appealing is that it is less sensitive to melting and also soaks up the flavors of beverages, making each sip more enjoyable.
With nugget ice makers becoming more commonplace, it's easy to bring this luxury home. The popularity of nugget ice has certainly grown over the years and shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon.
Can you use tap water in a countertop nugget ice maker?
To get the best-tasting nugget ice from your countertop ice maker it is important to use the right kind of water. Tap water may contain impurities and minerals that can impact the taste and quality of nugget ice, so it is not recommended for making nugget ice.
Instead, filtered or purified water should be used to ensure that you get clean-tasting nugget ice each time. Additionally, using the right kind of water can help prevent sediment buildup and other damage inside your ice machine, ensuring optimal performance and long-lasting nugget ice production.
Do countertop ice makers use a lot of electricity?
Countertop nugget ice makers make it easy to always have an abundance of soft, nugget-style ice cubes. Not known for being energy efficient, the average countertop ice machine uses around 150-170 watts per hour of operation.
Although the electricity that nugget ice makers use might lead some people to believe their energy costs will be through the roof, this is not necessarily the case. The typical nugget ice maker uses around 125 kWh in a month - At an average American rate of $0.15 per kilowatt hour, that would cost around $18.75 a month, placing this appliance truly in the luxury category.
Why do nugget ice makers cost so much?
A nugget ice machine is a highly sought-after appliance, but the high prices put many people off from making the purchase. While it may not be immediately obvious why nugget ice makers can be so costly, a closer look at the sophisticated engineering involved will make it clear to see.
Behind its simple operation lies an intricate process of turning water into ice flakes. Then the machine converts the flake ice into those crave-worthy, crunchy pellets that have taken the ice world by storm. Thanks to this complex engineering solution nugget ice enthusiasts can now create those soft and chewing nuggets in their very own homes.
How long does it take to make ice with a countertop nugget ice maker?
Countertop nugget ice makers are an incredibly convenient way to have nugget ice ready in a matter of minutes. Depending on the nugget ice maker model, it usually takes between 15 and 20 minutes to produce the first pounds of ice.
This might sound like a while, but compared with traditional methods of freezing and crushing large cubes of ice or trays of ice cubes - which can take hours to make - owning a nugget ice maker for your countertop is definitely worth the wait!
Can you use a countertop nugget ice maker outside?
While nugget ice makers are convenient and perfect for making batches of nugget-style ice in your home, it is not recommended to use them for outdoor use since they are not designed to handle extreme temperatures or weather conditions.
This applies especially to these types of nugget ice makers, as the lack of insulation means that delicate parts may be damaged over time by exposure to the elements.
If you're looking to make nugget-style ice outdoors, it's best to either only use the machine temporarily outside or look into alternative options that are built to withstand more extreme climates.
CONCLUSION
Nugget ice makers are becoming increasingly popular for both home and commercial use because everyone wants the best nugget ice around. They are easy to clean and maintain, although they can be costly. If you're looking for the best nugget ice maker, we've rounded up the top options below. From self-dispensing models to top-of-the-line machines, there's sure to be an option that fits your needs.
Be sure to make the decision that best suits your lifestyle as to how you are going to regularly fill your nugget ice machine in advance of your purchase. Choosing from either connecting to a water line for automatic refilling or manually filling the unit's water reservoir or side tank, will be pivotal to having the right product for you.
In conclusion, nugget ice makers are a convenient and efficient way to produce soft, chewable Sonic ice at home. These appliances are easy to operate and some can even produce ice in as little as 10 minutes. Most counter ice makers are also relatively low maintenance and can be cleaned with just a few simple steps.
With the best nugget ice makers, you can enjoy restaurant-quality ice in the comfort of your own home. However, it's worth noting that they can be expensive, so it's important to carefully consider your needs before making a purchase. Overall, nugget ice makers can be a great addition to any kitchen or home bar for those who crave soft, chewable nugget ice.
