When it comes to making ice, the traditional cube-shaped blocks can quickly become tiresome for daily beverage consumption. That's where a countertop nugget ice maker comes in – these clever appliances create small, uniform ice pieces that melt slowly and keep your drink chilly without diluting it excessively. Our comprehensive guide evaluates the top models on the market, comparing their ice production capacity, energy efficiency, and design features to help you find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
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Reviews
The Auseo nugget ice maker creates 33 pounds of ice in 24 hours, delivering generous ice nuggets that are perfect for drinks and food storage. Its compact size fits easily on any countertop, measuring just 11.3 x 8.7 x 12.7 inches, while the self-cleaning function and straightforward controls make maintenance and operation a breeze.
This countertop ice maker produces 26 pounds of bullet-shaped ice nuggets daily, delivering nine ice pieces in just seven minutes. Its self-cleaning function streamlines maintenance, while its compact design makes it easy to move around your kitchen or take to outdoor gatherings. The ice maker's durable BPA-free construction and efficient 105-watt compressor help ensure reliable performance for your cold beverage needs.
This countertop ice maker handles six quarts at a time, cranking out 62 pounds of ice daily under test conditions. The self-cleaning feature helps keep those ice cubes fresh and clean, while built-in UV protection ensures they stay that way. At just 20 inches long, it's a space-efficient way to keep your drinks cold.
Creating perfectly chewable nugget ice has never been easier with this compact countertop machine. Filling it up once and forgetting about it until you need refreshing cold drinks is a game-changer for any busy kitchen. At just 2.2 liters of water at a time, it's easy to manage and keep clean – plus, the transparent window lets you see exactly how much ice you've got left.
This stylish white ice maker brings a spa-like touch to your home bar with its generous daily nugget ice production. At just 16.9 inches tall, the self-cleaning machine slides discreetly under the counter, while its 30-pound capacity keeps your drinks fresh all day long. The soft, chewy ice cubes add a sophisticated touch to any beverage, perfect for those who prefer a different kind of frozen treat.
This countertop ice maker produces nugget ice that's just like what you'd get from a Sonic drive-thru window. It's pretty quiet for the most part and makes great ice fast. The water reservoir fills up the ice bin in just a few hours, giving you fresh ice for your drinks.
Create perfectly chewable nugget ice at home with this countertop machine that produces 33 pounds daily. The whisper-quiet design and simple self-cleaning function make it a breeze to operate, while the BPA-free construction ensures your ice is safe and healthy. Enjoy the perfect texture for your favorite drinks and treats without the noisy interruptions of traditional ice makers.
The Philergo countertop ice maker produces soft, easy-to-chew ice nuggets great for smoothies and cocktails, and its self-cleaning feature makes it practical for daily use in homes and offices. At 11.30 inches wide, it's small enough to fit on most counters but still manages to produce 33 pounds of ice in 24 hours. Users especially appreciate its quiet operation and convenience for keeping drinks fresh on hot days.
This portable ice maker cranks out 9 perfectly shaped ice cubes in under 8 minutes, producing a whopping 26 pounds of ice daily. The compact countertop design features a see-through window that lets you watch your ice cubes form while keeping the operation super quiet at just 45 decibels - perfect for those who like their ice machines invisible.
Chewable ice cubes straight from your countertop? Sign us up! This sleek ice maker churns out 33 pounds of nugget ice daily, perfect for those who think crushed ice is just too. . crushed. The smart design fits anywhere you need a ice dispenser, from crowded kitchen countertops to office break rooms. Best of all, its simple controls and smart features make ice day a breeze.
With its compact design and quick 15-minute ice-making process, the Frigidaire Gallery countertop ice maker produces those coveted chewy nuggets of ice that restaurants serve. The 44-pound daily capacity keeps your cooler stocked without taking up much counter space, while the auto-clean function keeps maintenance simple. The touch controls and stylish stainless steel finish make it a practical centerpiece for any kitchen.
The R. W. FLAME Nugget Ice Maker produces up to 33 pounds of crushed ice daily, delivering cold drinks in just 7 minutes. Its compact design fits perfectly on countertops while the self-cleaning function and user-friendly controls make maintenance a breeze. Whether you're at home or camping, this portable ice maker keeps your drinks fresh and your days cool.
If you're tired of the same old cube ice, this 200-watt ice maker creates unique nugget-shaped ice that floats in your drinks. The portable unit makes 44 pounds of ice daily and fits anywhere with a standard electrical outlet. Whether you're at home, camping, or tailgating, it's a convenient way to keep your beverages refreshed.
Crafted for quick convenience, this countertop ice maker spits out ice pellets at an impressive rate of 9 per minute, ready in just 6 minutes. The self-cleaning feature keeps maintenance a breeze, while the 26-pound daily capacity takes the stress out of hosting. Built with premium SUS304 stainless steel and ABS materials, it combines durable construction with space-saving design for your busy kitchen.
This countertop ice maker produces 44 pounds of chewable nugget ice in 24 hours, perfect for quickly cooling drinks while adding a fun element to your beverage. The self-cleaning function and compact design make it a practical addition to both home and office environments, while the smart LCD panel allows easy monitoring of the ice-making process. While some users note its operation can be quite loud, its efficient performance and durable construction have earned it consistent praise from reviewers.
Crafting perfect ice for your favourite drinks just got easier with the ecozy countertop nugget ice maker. These chewy ice nuggets preserve the flavours of your cocktails while keeping your beverages cool for longer. The compact machine produces 7 ounces of ice in 20 minutes, perfect for home bar setups where you want fresh ice without the hassle of trips to the store.
Crafting perfectly portioned nugget ice in under 20 minutes, this sleek black stainless steel machine transforms your countertop into an instant dessert station. Its built-in WiFi connects you to the SmartHQ app for remote monitoring and automated software updates, while the LED display keeps you informed without glowing obnoxiously when you're trying to relax. Whether you're mixing up summer drinks or just need a crunchy ice treat, this ice maker delivers superior nuggets without the hassle of frequent maintenance.
These countertop nugget ice makers create small ice "snowballs" that are perfect for chilling drinks while keeping their flavors intact. The machines produce enough ice for full parties or family use, with the molded cubes measuring just the right size for both casual sipping and special occasion cocktails. While some users have experienced durability issues and poor customer support, those who have successfully kept their machines report impressive results, with the fresh, chewy ice proving far superior to standard cubes or bullets.
This sleek countertop ice maker creates crystal-clear nugget ice in just 15 minutes, perfect for your favorite cocktails. The compact design fits seamlessly on any counter while producing a generous 44 pounds of ice daily. The water-efficient automatic system recycles melted ice, keeping your reservoir full without constant refilling.
This countertop ice maker produces chewy nugget ice that's perfect for tropical drinks and blended beverages. Operating at a quiet 46dB, it compresses ice flakes into opal-shaped pieces ideal for keeping your drinks cold without cracking teeth. The user-friendly design includes just two buttons for on/off and self-cleaning, while the stainless steel construction ensures durability and easy maintenance.
This stylish ice maker produces a generous 26 lbs of delicious bullet-shaped ice cubes in just 24 hours, perfect for keeping your drinks frosty and refreshing. With its compact stainless-steel design, it's equally at home in your kitchen as at your next party, though some users have found its automated water management system a bit finicky. The clear window lets you watch your ice grow while the auto-defrost feature keeps maintenance simple.
The VEVOR countertop ice maker creates chewably soft nugget ice that helps preserve drink flavors, making it perfect for both home use and outdoor gatherings. Producing 37 pounds of ice daily with each cycle completing in just 15 minutes, this energy-efficient appliance transforms your counter space into an ice-making station. The unit's self-cleaning feature and dual water refill options make maintenance simple, while its compact design allows for convenient placement in tight kitchen spots.
This countertop ice maker produces soft, chewy nugget ice perfect for Sonic-themed drinks at home. It cranks out 33 pounds of ice daily, with quick refills every two minutes after the initial 12-minute cycle. The self-cleaning feature makes maintenance a breeze in just 15 minutes. The intuitive one-button design and infrared technology keep you in the loop about ice levels, though some users wish it had a built-in timer. At a compact 13 inches tall, this quiet machine won't overwhelm your counter space and performs flawlessly based on user feedback.
You'll love these nugget ice machines for their self-dispensing smart design and those satisfyingly soft-crunchy ice cubes. The countertop model makes a decent 22 pounds of ice daily, though tap water quality does affect performance. While some users praise its ease of use and quiet operation, others struggle with ice melt issues and cleaning difficulties.
This compact ice maker produces delicious nugget ice similar to restaurant quality, with a 30-pound capacity every 24 hours. The self-dispensing design eliminates the need for manual scooping, while its countertop-friendly dimensions of 12" x 16" x 17.5" make it perfect for homes or offices with limited space. Users appreciate its ability to maintain ice production in moderate temperatures, though some note occasional performance issues with hard water.
Create restaurant-quality ice pellets in just 12 minutes with this portable nugget ice maker, which stores 3.5 pounds of ice to keep your drinks cold all day long. The auto-shut-off feature ensures safe operation, while the digital touch panel and interior light make it easy to use. Store the included ice scoop and drip tray for convenient maintenance.
The Kndko countertop ice maker produces those popular soft, chewy nugget ice cubes that make mixed drinks taste extra special. At 45 pounds per day, it keeps your fridge stocked without taking up much counter space. Its self-cleaning feature and water recycling system make maintenance simple, so you always have fresh ice on hand.
Churn out 44 pounds of ice daily with this countertop nugget ice maker, producing its first batch in just 15 minutes. The self-cleaning function makes ice-making maintenance a breeze, while the 4-pound capacity bin keeps your beverages refreshed. The R600a refrigerant and 115-volt operation make it energy-efficient and reliable for daily use.
Crafting the perfect ice for those who love to chew their cubes, this portable icemaker produces restaurant-quality nugget ice at an impressive rate of 44 pounds per day. Its 3.3-pound storage capacity keeps your freezer stocked between refills, while the 2.3-quart water tank helps reduce melting. The digital control panel and stainless-steel design make it both practical and stylish for any kitchen.
The Avanti Elite Series makes impressive quantities of consistent nugget ice, though users note it's not the quietest appliance in the kitchen. The compact stainless steel design works well on countertops, but some face challenges with the dispensing mechanism and water leakage issues that can make a bit of a mess. Overall, it's a dependable workhorse for daily ice needs once you account for its quirks.
This portable ice maker produces chewably soft nugget ice identical to your favorite drive-thru treats – no more bitter fridge-tainted chips! Its sleek stainless steel design fits under most kitchen cabinets without requiring any plumbing, making it a space-saving solution for your countertop. Simply add water and hit the one-touch ice button; the compact machine churns out fresh ice in minutes, providing constant refreshment without taking up precious freezer space.
The LHRIVER Nugget Ice Maker creates chewy ice nuggets that stay fresh longer than traditional cubes. At just 11.3 inches tall, this sleek machine fits perfectly on your counter, and its transparent window lets you watch your ice grow. Plus, after your refreshing treats, it cleans itself so you don't have to.
This sleek black ice maker produces enough nugget-style ice to keep your summer lemonade and holiday gatherings refreshingly cold. The 26-pound capacity model fills quickly in under seven minutes, with LED controls that are easy to read even in quick succession. The built-in air outlet keeps the unit cool and efficient, while the compact design lets it fit snugly on your countertop without taking up precious cabinet space.
The R. W. FLAME countertop ice maker produces perfectly-sized ice cubes for both chilling seafood and cooling drinks, with a compact design that fits neatly on your counter. Its dual-size system and built-in self-cleaning function make it incredibly practical for regular use, while the eight-sided shape adds a touch of visual interest to your kitchen.
The GE Profile Opal countertop ice maker transforms your ordinary drinking experience into something special with its crystal-clear nugget ice - the type that shatters gracefully when you bite into it. This compact machine attaches directly to your sink for convenient refilling and features a built-in cleaning system that makes maintenance a breeze. With three pounds of ice capacity, you'll never run out of that coveted "good ice" again, perfect for filling up your favorite summer cocktails or creating those indulgent slushy drinks that are worth shouting about.
If you're tired of your drinks being diluted by cube ice, you need this countertop nugget ice maker. It quietly churns out perfectly-sized pieces that add a textural boost to everything from coffee to cocktails. The compact design means it won't hog your counter space, yet it still produces enough ice to satisfy even the hungriest crushers among your housemates.
The Frigidaire 26 lb retro ice maker efficiently produces plenty of cubed ice for daily use, with a compact design that won't hog your counter space. Thanks to its reliable 24-hour ice-making capabilities, you'll always have fresh ice on hand without needing to lug around gallon jugs or constantly run to the store. The bright LED display and clear ice window make it a breeze to see when you need to refill, letting you know exactly when it's time to top up the water reservoir.
The Ionchill QuickCube ice maker transforms your kitchen or office counter into a sophisticated beverage station with its fast, efficient nugget ice production. This compact machine fills its 3L tank and delivers perfectly-sized ice cubes in just 10 minutes, creating enough ice to last 24 hours. The self-cleaning feature and durable stainless-steel construction ensure maintenance is a breeze while the quiet operation keeps disturbance to a minimum.
The Frigidaire Nugget Ice Maker produces small, chewy ice cubes that stay frozen longer than regular cubes, perfect for keeping your drinks cold and your freezer clutter-free. Its 44-pound capacity lets you stock up for parties, and the built-in water reservoir means you can place it anywhere without plumbing. Users love how easy it is to clean and move around the house.
Made famous by Sonic Drive-In but now available in countertop form, this ice maker produces perfectly chewable nuggets that live up to the hype. The 44-pound daily capacity is a game-changer for family-sized gatherings, while the compact design fits effortlessly into any kitchen nook. The blue LED light adds a stylish touch, though some users have noted it uses quite a bit of counter space.
Crafting perfectly-sized ice nuggets that fit snugly in your favorite drink, the Frigidaire ice maker brings restaurant-quality ice to your home in just 15 minutes. With a impressive daily ice production of 44 pounds, this durable machine ensures you never run short on those signature soft, chewable cubes. The self-cleaning feature keeps maintenance simple, though some users have reported durability issues and operational problems despite regular care.
A compact ice maker that produces 9 bullet-shaped cubes in under 8 minutes, this countertop model comes with a portable handle for easy movement around your kitchen. The self-cleaning function and 26-pound capacity every 24 hours make it practical for both home and office use, though it's worth noting that exposure to the refrigerant used (R600a) meets California's safety standards.
Buyer's Guide
Countertop nugget ice makers create uniform, cube-like ice with rounded corners, ideal for mixed drinks and clear ice molds. Understanding key specifications and features will help you select the right model for your needs.
Capacity and Usage
Nugget ice makers typically produce between 2,000-3,000 cubes per hour, depending on the model. Consider your daily requirements and whether you need continuous or batch production. Factors like commercial use, space limitations, and power consumption affect optimal capacity selection.
Water Consumption and Maintenance
The water consumption ranges from 2.5-3.5 gallons of water per pound of ice produced. Look for models with clear water lines and filters for easy maintenance. Frost-free designs prevent ice buildup, while self-cleaning features reduce manual cleaning requirements.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
/countertop ice machines usually consume between 1,200-1,800 watts, with energy-efficient models using less power. Calculate the machine's operating costs based on your electricity rates and expected usage frequency to determine if it fits your budget.
Size, Design, and Installation
These machines typically measure 22-24 inches wide, 22-24 inches deep, and 33-34 inches tall, so ensure you have sufficient counter space. Look for units with reversible doors and adjustable legs for optimal positioning. Some models have built-in water tanks, while others require external connections.
FAQ
What is a countertop nugget ice maker?
A countertop nugget ice maker creates small, uniform ice pellets known as "nugget" ice. These ice makers are designed to sit on a countertop and produce fresh ice quickly, making them popular in home kitchens and small commercial spaces.
The nugget ice produced by these machines is cube-shaped with a slightly curved edge, creating a consistent, uniform ice product. Unlike traditional cubes, nugget ice has a larger surface area for quick melting, making it ideal for blended beverages where you want the ice to dissolve quickly without diluting the drink excessively.
How big is a typical countertop nugget ice maker?
Standard countertop nugget ice makers range from 16 inches to 24 inches in length, designed to fit comfortably on most kitchen counters. They stand approximately 12-15 inches tall and are about 12-15 inches deep, providing ample space for ice production without taking up excessive counter space.
The compact design makes them suitable for both residential and commercial use, from apartments to bars and cafes where full-sized ice machines would be impractical.
How much ice does a countertop nugget ice maker produce?
A typical countertop nugget ice maker can produce between 5-12 pounds of ice per cycle, with cycles ranging from 15-90 minutes. This means you can potentially get 24-48 pounds of ice per day, depending on usage.
The production rate and capacity may vary slightly between different models, so it's important to check the specifications for your specific make and model to determine exactly how much ice you can expect.
What types of ice cubes are available in nugget ice makers?
While the term "nugget ice" generally refers to the specific cube shape, some countertop ice makers may offer variations like crushed ice or regular cubes through additional settings or accessories. However, most models are designed specifically to produce the distinctive nugget shape.
The standard nugget size is about 1/2 inch on each side, giving it a larger surface area than traditional ice cubes while maintaining a similar melting rate.
Are countertop nugget ice makers easy to maintain?
Yes, these ice makers are known for their simplicity and ease of maintenance. Most models require cleaning of the bin and water filter once a week, with regular checks on the ice producer once a month. The compact size makes it simple to access these components for cleaning.
Many modern models also feature easy-to-remove bins and simple controls, further simplifying the maintenance process.
How long do countertop nugget ice makers last?
When properly maintained, countertop nugget ice makers can last 5-7 years with regular use. The lifespan may vary based on usage frequency, maintenance quality, and the specific brand and model of the machine.
Many manufacturers offer warranties between 1-3 years, which can help cover maintenance costs or replacement parts during the initial period of use.
As an Amazon Affiliate™, I receive compensation through qualifying purchases