10 Best Ice Makers 2026 in the United States

The Scotsman Commercial Nugget Ice Maker (HID312A-1) is designed for heavy-duty ice production, making up to 260 pounds of soft nugget ice per day. This high output suits businesses or busy settings where a steady, large supply of ice is essential. The nugget ice it produces is popular for its chewable texture, ideal for drinks and healthcare needs. It features a decent-sized storage bin that helps keep ice ready without frequent refills. Its air-cooled system is efficient, helping save energy compared to smaller, less powerful machines. One standout feature is the touchfree infrared dispenser, which reduces physical contact, minimizing wear and making it more hygienic and low-maintenance.

The unit also benefits from sealed, maintenance-free bearings and a removable dust cover, both aimed at reducing service costs and hassle. The dispenser's large, 11-inch opening is convenient for filling bigger cups or containers, and a USB port for software updates adds an extra layer of future-proofing. In terms of size, the machine is fairly large and heavy (over 180 pounds and about 35 inches tall), so it’s better suited for a fixed spot rather than being moved often. It runs on standard electrical power and uses R-134a refrigerant, which balances good performance with energy efficiency.

Cleaning is simplified, but because it’s a commercial-grade machine, it might require regular upkeep to maintain optimal function. This ice maker is a solid choice for commercial or high-demand environments where reliable, fast production of nugget ice is a priority, although it’s not the best fit if you need a compact or portable option.

The Kismile Nugget Ice Maker is a solid choice for anyone wanting quick and convenient ice at home. It produces up to 35 pounds of chewable nugget ice daily, with the first batch ready in just 7 minutes—great for gatherings or daily use. Its 2.3-liter water tank and transparent ice storage let you keep an eye on ice levels easily. The nugget ice, known for its soft, crunchy texture, is perfect for drinks like cocktails, sodas, or slushies and melts slower than regular ice cubes, helping preserve flavors.

This model is compact and stylish, fitting comfortably on most countertops without taking up too much space, and weighs about 22 pounds, making it portable. It’s designed to be user-friendly, featuring one-click operation and LED indicators for water levels and ice status. Maintenance is simplified with a quick self-cleaning function activated by a single button press, which completes in 15 minutes. Noise levels are low at 43 dB, so it operates quietly in the background.

Although specific energy efficiency ratings are not detailed, the use of R600a refrigerant suggests a more eco-friendly design. For those seeking fast, tasty nugget ice without complex setup or loud machines, this Kismile model is a fitting option, while users needing larger ice storage or commercial-level output may find it less suitable.

The EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker is a solid choice for those wanting quick and soft chewable ice at home, parties, or on the go. It produces up to 34 pounds of nugget-style ice daily, which is enough for most small gatherings or personal use. The machine starts making ice in about 6 minutes, so you get fresh ice pretty fast. Its compact size and built-in handle make it portable and easy to move around, fitting well on kitchen counters or even in an RV. The ice produced is small, soft pellets that cool drinks quickly and are gentle on your teeth, great for iced coffee or smoothies.

The water tank holds 1.2 quarts, and the removable ice basket can store about 1.8 pounds of ice at once—this means you might need to scoop ice out regularly during heavy use. The automatic cleaning feature combined with a removable top cover makes maintenance straightforward, helping keep the machine hygienic without much effort. It also has helpful alerts to remind you to add water or empty the basket, which is convenient.

Quiet operation (under 50 dB) and low energy use (about 1 kWh per 8 hours) are nice touches, making it suitable for use in quiet environments like offices or bedrooms. The stainless steel build gives it a durable, modern look. The ice storage capacity is modest, so it's not designed for large parties without frequent emptying. Also, since it uses a water tank, you’ll need to refill it manually rather than connecting it to a water line. This ice maker is especially suitable for users who want soft, chewable nugget ice quickly and quietly, with easy cleaning and portability. It fits well for home use, small get-togethers, or camping trips but is less appropriate for heavy commercial use or big events requiring continuous large ice output.