We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Shave Ice Machines 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

VEVOR 110V Commercial Ice Crusher 661LBS/H, ETL Approved 300W Electric Snow Cone Machine with Dual Blades, Stainless Steel Shaved Ice Machine with Safety On/Off Switch for Family, Restaurants, Bars

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,493
Ice Texture
Capacity
Ease of Use

Most important from
1324 reviews

Ice Texture
Produces perfect texture ice shavings quickly, despite being a bit loud.
Capacity
Holds a substantial amount of ice and is very easy to clean.
Ease of Use
Ideal for both home use and events, thanks to its ease of use.
Durability
Quality and durability are impressive, even after a summer full of use.
Size and Portability
Lightweight design makes it easy to move around for events.

The VEVOR 110V Commercial Ice Crusher is a robust machine designed for both home and commercial use. One of its standout features is its dual stainless steel blades, which enhance efficiency by doubling the crushing capacity compared to single-blade models. This machine can handle an impressive 661 pounds of ice per hour, making it suitable for high-demand environments like restaurants, bars, and large gatherings.

The 50L capacity storage box is another plus, as it keeps the shaved ice frozen longer and prevents leaks with a built-in drainage hose. Plus, it comes with an extra pair of blades and an ice scoop, adding more value to the purchase. On the safety and convenience front, the machine includes an ergonomic handle and a waterproof ON/OFF switch, making it easy and safe to operate even with wet hands. Durability is a key strength, with high-quality stainless steel construction and non-slip feet ensuring stability and longevity.

However, the machine's size and weight (24 x 20 x 16 inches; 25 pounds) make it less portable and potentially cumbersome for smaller kitchen spaces. Additionally, the commercial-grade design might be overkill for casual home use, and the price point could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. VEVOR’s warranty and after-sales service are commendable, offering a 30-day return for quality issues, a 6-month warranty, and lifetime technical support. The machine excels in efficiency, capacity, and durability, making it a great choice for those needing large quantities of shaved ice, but may be less ideal for those seeking a compact, lightweight option.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,493
Ice Texture
Capacity
Ease of Use

Most important from
1324 reviews

Ice Texture
Produces perfect texture ice shavings quickly, despite being a bit loud.
Capacity
Holds a substantial amount of ice and is very easy to clean.
Ease of Use
Ideal for both home use and events, thanks to its ease of use.
Durability
Quality and durability are impressive, even after a summer full of use.
Size and Portability
Lightweight design makes it easy to move around for events.
#2

Nostalgia Snow Cone Shaved Ice Machine - Retro Table-Top Slushie Machine Makes 20 Icy Treats - Includes 2 Reusable Plastic Cups & Ice Scoop - Retro Red

Rating
10.0
Ice Texture
Size and Portability
Ease of Use

Most important from
11906 reviews

Ice Texture
Delivers perfectly fluffy, snow-like ice that’s ideal for classic snow cones every time.
Size and Portability
Compact and retro design adds a playful, nostalgic touch that stands out in any kitchen.
Ease of Use
Effortless and intuitive to operate, making it accessible and fun for users of all ages.
Capacity
Creates about 20 servings per session, suitable for casual entertaining and family gatherings.
Durability
Durable enough for frequent home use when handled with care, promising long-lasting enjoyment.

The Nostalgia Snow Cone Shaved Ice Machine is a great choice for anyone looking to make fun, fluffy shaved ice treats at home or small gatherings. It features sharp stainless steel blades that quickly shave ice cubes into a soft, snow-like texture, which is exactly what you want for traditional snow cones. Its size is compact enough to sit comfortably on a kitchen countertop or small table, making it fairly portable within your home. The machine is easy to use, designed with a safety switch to protect your hands while shaving ice, so it's family-friendly and suitable for parties or BBQs. In terms of capacity, it can make about 20 servings per session, which works well for casual entertaining but might be limiting for larger groups.

Durability is decent for a home appliance, though the plastic-based construction and its origin from China suggest it should be handled with some care to ensure longevity. While it pairs perfectly with Nostalgia brand snow cone kits and accessories, it doesn’t accommodate large-scale or commercial use and isn’t battery-powered, so it needs a nearby outlet. If you want a straightforward, nostalgic-style shaved ice machine that delivers fluffy ice quickly and is easy to clean and store, this model fits those needs well without overcomplication.

Rating
10.0
Ice Texture
Size and Portability
Ease of Use

Most important from
11906 reviews

Ice Texture
Delivers perfectly fluffy, snow-like ice that’s ideal for classic snow cones every time.
Size and Portability
Compact and retro design adds a playful, nostalgic touch that stands out in any kitchen.
Ease of Use
Effortless and intuitive to operate, making it accessible and fun for users of all ages.
Capacity
Creates about 20 servings per session, suitable for casual entertaining and family gatherings.
Durability
Durable enough for frequent home use when handled with care, promising long-lasting enjoyment.
#3

Nostalgia Shaved Ice Machine, Aqua

Rating
9.8
Ice Texture
Capacity
Ease of Use

Most important from
2647 reviews

Ice Texture
The shaved ice it makes is high quality and makes delicious snow cones.
Capacity
The machine shaves ice quickly, making it efficient for serving large groups.
Ease of Use
Safe and easy to use - even an 11-year-old can operate it without any problems.
Durability
Quality materials, sturdy, and easy to move around with the wheels.
Size and Portability
The top half is removable for countertop use, adding to its versatility.

The Nostalgia Shaved Ice Machine in Aqua is designed for those who enjoy making large batches of shaved ice for events like birthday parties. One of its standout features is its large capacity, capable of holding enough ice for roughly 72 snow cones, making it a great choice for entertaining. The deluxe shaving system with stainless steel blades can quickly shave 2 pounds of ice in just 90 seconds, which is incredibly efficient for serving lots of guests. It's also versatile with standard ice cubes, meaning you won't need to purchase any special ice for it.

Additionally, it includes a handy storage compartment to keep supplies organized, and the snow cone side shelf serves as a prepping station for easy syrup addition. The unit's design allows for 360-degree views with tempered glass, adding a bit of visual appeal while also letting you monitor the ice levels. It also features a drip tray to maintain a clean workspace. The machine is quite portable as the top can be separated from the cart for countertop use, making it convenient for smaller spaces or transporting to different locations.

However, at 29.9 pounds, it may be a bit heavy for some users to move around frequently. It also has a relatively large footprint with its dimensions of 25.25 x 17.25 x 14.5 inches, which might require ample counter or storage space. Nonetheless, it excels in capacity, efficiency, and versatility, making it a strong candidate for anyone needing a reliable and capable shave-ice machine for large gatherings.

Rating
9.8
Ice Texture
Capacity
Ease of Use

Most important from
2647 reviews

Ice Texture
The shaved ice it makes is high quality and makes delicious snow cones.
Capacity
The machine shaves ice quickly, making it efficient for serving large groups.
Ease of Use
Safe and easy to use - even an 11-year-old can operate it without any problems.
Durability
Quality materials, sturdy, and easy to move around with the wheels.
Size and Portability
The top half is removable for countertop use, adding to its versatility.

Buying Guide for the Best Shave Ice Machines

Choosing the right shave ice machine can make a big difference in your enjoyment of this refreshing treat. Whether you're looking to make shave ice for personal use, parties, or even a small business, understanding the key specifications will help you find the best machine for your needs. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting a shave ice machine.
Type of MachineShave ice machines come in two main types: manual and electric. Manual machines require you to turn a crank to shave the ice, which can be more labor-intensive but also more affordable and portable. Electric machines, on the other hand, do the work for you with the push of a button, making them more convenient and efficient, especially for larger quantities. If you plan to make shave ice frequently or in large batches, an electric machine might be the better choice. For occasional use or if you enjoy the hands-on process, a manual machine could be sufficient.
Ice TextureThe texture of the shaved ice is crucial for the overall experience. Some machines produce a coarser, crunchy ice, while others create a fine, fluffy snow-like texture. The finer the ice, the better it absorbs syrups and flavors. If you prefer a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth experience, look for a machine that is known for producing fine ice. If you don't mind a bit of crunch, a machine that produces coarser ice might be acceptable.
CapacityCapacity refers to how much ice the machine can shave at one time. This is important if you plan to serve shave ice to a large group of people. Smaller machines might be suitable for personal use or small gatherings, while larger machines are better for parties or commercial use. Consider how often and for how many people you will be making shave ice to determine the right capacity for your needs.
Ease of UseEase of use includes how simple the machine is to operate, clean, and maintain. Some machines have more complex mechanisms that might require more effort to clean, while others are designed for easy disassembly and cleaning. If you want a hassle-free experience, look for a machine with straightforward operation and easy-to-clean parts. This is especially important if you plan to use the machine frequently.
DurabilityDurability is a measure of how well the machine is built and how long it will last. Machines made with high-quality materials like stainless steel and heavy-duty plastic are generally more durable and can withstand frequent use. If you plan to use the machine regularly or for commercial purposes, investing in a durable machine is essential. For occasional use, a less robust machine might suffice.
Size and PortabilityThe size and portability of the machine are important if you have limited counter space or plan to move the machine around. Smaller, more compact machines are easier to store and transport, making them ideal for home use or events. Larger machines might offer more features and capacity but can be cumbersome to move and require more storage space. Consider where you will use and store the machine to determine the best size for your needs.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now