10 Best Nugget Ice Makers 2026 in the United States

The Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker is a strong choice if you're looking for a portable countertop machine that produces soft, chewable nugget ice. It can make up to 44 pounds of ice per day, which is plenty for most home gatherings or small office use. The ice-making cycle is relatively fast at about 10 to 15 minutes, so you won’t have to wait long for fresh ice. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to fit in tight kitchen spaces, RVs, or bars where space is limited.

An added plus is the 1.8-liter water tank and removable ice basket, which simplify refilling and ice removal. The machine also includes a handy LED touch control panel that makes adjusting settings and checking status straightforward. One standout feature is the 20-minute self-cleaning function that helps keep the ice fresh without any manual scrubbing or harsh chemicals. The intelligent alerts for full ice storage or low water add convenience by letting you know when it needs attention.

The Antarctic Star delivers quick and reliable nugget ice production in a compact, easy-to-use package ideal for personal or small group use. Its simplicity and self-cleaning feature make maintenance easy, making it a practical option for those who want efficient nugget ice production without complicated maintenance.

The EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker is a strong choice for anyone wanting soft, chewable nugget ice quickly and conveniently. It produces up to 34 pounds of ice per day and starts making ice in just 6 minutes, which is quite fast for countertop models. The built-in water tank holds 1.2 quarts, and the removable 1.8-pound ice basket makes it easy to access and serve the ice. Its compact size and light weight, along with a sturdy handle, make it truly portable—ideal for home, parties, camping, or even an RV. The clear window lets you see the ice production process, and the ice scoop holder on the back keeps things tidy. One of its best features is the smart auto-cleaning function that runs a 15-minute cycle, helping keep the machine hygienic with minimal effort. It also has helpful indicators for when the ice basket is full or needs more water.

Noise-wise, it operates quietly at under 50 dB, so it won’t disturb your activities. The machine is energy-efficient, consuming about 1 kWh every 8 hours, which helps lower electricity costs. It runs on standard 120-volt power and uses an eco-friendly refrigerant. While it offers good ice storage for a portable unit, the 1.8-pound basket may require frequent emptying during heavy use, which might be a minor inconvenience for larger gatherings. Also, frequent water refills are needed due to the smaller water reservoir. This nugget ice maker delivers convenience, speed, and quality ice in a compact, user-friendly package, making it well suited for casual users wanting easy access to soft, chewable ice without the bulk or noise of larger machines.

The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL is a countertop nugget ice maker that produces soft, chewable ice ideal for drinks, which many people find more enjoyable than regular ice cubes. It can make up to 38 pounds of ice per day, starting your first batch in under 10 minutes, which is quite fast. The ice storage drawer holds about 3 pounds at a time, so it’s good for casual use but may require frequent refills in larger gatherings. Its 1-gallon water tank means you don’t need a direct water line, giving you flexibility to place it almost anywhere, though you will need to refill the tank manually.

The unit is moderately sized (about 17.5" deep, 13.4" wide, and 16.5" high) and weighs 38 pounds, so it’s portable enough for most kitchens but not something you’d move around daily. It connects to WiFi and works with Alexa and Google voice controls, which adds convenience for scheduling ice production and monitoring status remotely. Cleaning is made easier with an advanced system, but the water filter and cleaning kit are sold separately, which may incur extra costs.

This ice maker suits people who want high-quality nugget ice at home with smart features and a decent daily output, but it is less ideal if you need large storage capacity or a fully hands-free water supply.