10 Best Ice Machines 2025 in the United States

The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL is a countertop nugget ice maker that produces soft, chewable ice quickly, ideal for anyone who enjoys refreshing drinks with distinctive pellet-style ice. It can produce up to 38 pounds of ice in 24 hours, suitable for small to medium household use or casual entertaining. The ice storage bin holds about 3 pounds at a time, so frequent use or transferring ice may be necessary to maintain fresh batches.

Its compact size (about 17.5 inches deep, 13.4 inches wide, and 16.5 inches tall) fits well on most kitchen counters without occupying too much space. The built-in 1-gallon water tank allows for operation without a water line hookup, with easy manual refilling thanks to its detachable design. The unit uses 300 watts, which is moderate for this type of appliance. Smart features include WiFi connectivity and voice control via Alexa or Google, enabling users to check ice status and schedule production conveniently from their phones.

Maintenance is supported by an integrated cleaning system to keep the ice fresh and the unit functioning well. The machine delivers high-quality nugget ice quickly in a stylish, smart-enabled package, though users will need to manage the limited ice storage capacity and consider maintenance needs.

The Manitowoc CNF-0201A-L is a solid choice if you need a reliable ice machine for busy commercial spaces or places where a steady supply of ice is essential. It produces up to 315 pounds of soft, chewable nugget ice per day, which is popular for drinks like cocktails and smoothies.

The 10-pound storage bin is a bit on the smaller side, so it works best when ice is used regularly without long waiting times. It’s designed to sit on a countertop, but keep in mind its size—about 74 inches deep and 36 inches tall—so you’ll need enough space. Energy-wise, it uses 6.69 kWh, which is moderate but not the most efficient model out there. Manitowoc machines typically run quietly enough for commercial settings. Maintenance involves standard cleaning, but the stainless steel build helps with durability and hygiene.

This ice machine is particularly suitable if your priority is high daily ice output and soft nugget ice, especially in a commercial environment with limited space. However, if you need a larger ice storage or more energy-saving features, you might want to explore other options.

The Hoshizaki KM-231BAJ is a robust undercounter ice maker designed for small bars, hotel lobbies, and office break rooms. It is capable of producing up to 213 lbs of crescent-shaped ice per day and can store up to 80 lbs of ice, making it suitable for environments with moderate ice needs.

Its compact dimensions (28"D x 24"W x 39"H) and built-in storage bin add to its convenience and space efficiency. The stainless steel construction ensures durability and an attractive appearance. The CycleSaver design helps in energy efficiency and the EverCheck alert system simplifies maintenance by providing timely alerts for any issues, enhancing its user-friendliness.

It operates on a standard 115v power connection, making it relatively easy to install. One potential drawback could be its noise level, particularly in quiet environments like office break rooms. Additionally, with a weight of 80 pounds, it may require assistance to install. The energy consumption is 8.4 kWh, which is reasonable but could be a consideration for energy-conscious users. Given its features and moderate production capacity, it is best suited for businesses or settings where a reliable and efficient ice supply is essential, but extreme high-demand is not expected.