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 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.

The Scotsman Commercial Nugget Ice Maker (HID312A-1) is an impressive choice for anyone looking to produce a significant amount of nugget ice, making it ideal for restaurants, bars, and other high-demand environments. With a remarkable output of up to 260 pounds of ice per day, it has a strong capacity that ensures you'll have plenty of ice ready for a busy service. This high output also translates into energy efficiency, potentially lowering your utility costs compared to less powerful models.

One of the standout features is its touch-free infrared dispensing system. This not only promotes hygiene by minimizing direct contact but also helps extend the life of the machine by reducing wear and tear. Additionally, the design includes maintenance advantages like sealed bearings and a dust cover, which ease the burden of upkeep and decrease the frequency of service calls.

The Scotsman's size and weight could be a drawback if space is limited. With dimensions of 24.38 x 16.25 x 35 inches and weighing 183 pounds, it requires a dedicated spot, which may not suit smaller establishments or home use. The 800 watts of power needed might also raise concerns about energy consumption, although the machine is marketed as energy-efficient. On the usability front, the large dispensing area is great for filling larger containers, and the USB port for software updates is a thoughtful feature that enhances its longevity. Noise levels can vary, so it's worth considering if sound is a concern for your environment.