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10 Best Small Nugget Ice Makers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Handle, Ready in 6 Mins, 34lbs Per Day, Removable Top Cover, Auto-Cleaning, Portable Sonic Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Party/RV/Camping (Black)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,391
Ice Production Capacity
Ice Storage Capacity
Size and Portability

Most important from
16338 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
Compact design doesn't take up much counter space but still makes plenty of ice.
Ice Storage Capacity
Super easy to fill and clean, with a basket that prevents ice from sitting too long.
Size and Portability
Compact design doesn't take up much counter space but still makes plenty of ice.
Speed of Ice Production
Produces ice quickly and runs smoothly without any hiccups.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Super easy to fill and clean, with a basket that prevents ice from sitting too long.
Noise Level
Operates very quietly, adding to its convenience.

The EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker excels in many areas for a small nugget ice maker. It can produce ice in just 6 to 8 minutes and has a daily capacity of 34 lbs, which is impressive for its compact size. The 1.2-quart water tank and 1.8 lbs removable basket offer ample capacity for household or small party needs. Its small footprint (9.45 x 11.61 x 12.99 inches) and lightweight design (19.58 pounds) make it portable and convenient for various settings like homes, offices, camping trips, and parties. The handle is a thoughtful addition for easy transport.

The automatic cleaning feature and the easily removable top cover make maintenance straightforward, reducing the burden on the user. The 'ICE FULL' and 'ADD WATER' indicators further simplify operation, ensuring you don’t have to constantly monitor the device. Operating at less than 50 dB, it runs quietly, so it won't disturb your environment. However, the ice maker uses about 3 kWh per day, which is relatively energy-efficient but might still be noticeable on your electricity bill.

Being ETL certified, it promises safety and comes with a one-year after-sales service, adding peace of mind. On the downside, the device is made of plastic, which may not appeal to those looking for a more premium build. Also, its reliance on manual water filling could be seen as less convenient compared to models that connect directly to a water source. It is a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable and portable ice maker that delivers fast and chewable nugget ice.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,391
Ice Production Capacity
Ice Storage Capacity
Size and Portability

Most important from
16338 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
Compact design doesn't take up much counter space but still makes plenty of ice.
Ice Storage Capacity
Super easy to fill and clean, with a basket that prevents ice from sitting too long.
Size and Portability
Compact design doesn't take up much counter space but still makes plenty of ice.
Speed of Ice Production
Produces ice quickly and runs smoothly without any hiccups.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Super easy to fill and clean, with a basket that prevents ice from sitting too long.
Noise Level
Operates very quietly, adding to its convenience.
#2

GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL with 1 Gallon Tank, Chewable Crunchable Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, Scoop included, 38 lbs in 24 hours, Pellet Ice Machine with WiFi & Smart Connected, Stainless Steel

Rating
9.8
Ice Production Capacity
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Noise Level

Most important from
1048 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
The Opal ice maker produces copious amounts of ice, and the reservoir is easy to fill with an efficient drainage system.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Super easy to use and can even be set on a schedule, although cleaning can be somewhat of a chore.
Noise Level
Extremely noisy operation that worsens over time and frequent maintenance needed to keep it running.
Water Source
Pellet ice is fantastic, and the machine's water tank means refilling is only needed about once a week.

The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL is a small nugget ice maker designed for countertop use, boasting a stainless steel finish and a compact footprint. One of its standout features is its ability to produce up to 38 pounds of chewable nugget ice per day, with the first batch ready in as little as 10 minutes. Its removable drawer can store up to 3 pounds of ice, making it suitable for small gatherings or daily use.

The attached 1-gallon water tank eliminates the need for a constant external water source, simplifying its setup and maintenance. The built-in WiFi and SmartHQ app integration allow users to monitor and control the device remotely, including voice commands through Alexa and Google Assistant.

However, some users might find the cleaning process a bit demanding, especially since the water filter and cleaning kit are sold separately. Noise levels can also be a concern, as some users have reported it to be relatively loud during operation. Additionally, its weight of 38 pounds makes it less portable compared to other smaller units. Nevertheless, for those who prioritize convenience and the unique texture of nugget ice, the GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL is a solid choice.

Rating
9.8
Ice Production Capacity
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Noise Level

Most important from
1048 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
The Opal ice maker produces copious amounts of ice, and the reservoir is easy to fill with an efficient drainage system.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Super easy to use and can even be set on a schedule, although cleaning can be somewhat of a chore.
Noise Level
Extremely noisy operation that worsens over time and frequent maintenance needed to keep it running.
Water Source
Pellet ice is fantastic, and the machine's water tank means refilling is only needed about once a week.

Buying Guide for the Best Small Nugget Ice Makers

Choosing the right small nugget ice maker can greatly enhance your beverage experience, whether at home or in a small office. Nugget ice, also known as 'chewy ice,' is popular for its soft, chewable texture and ability to absorb flavors. When selecting a nugget ice maker, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the main specs to look at and how to navigate them.
Ice Production CapacityIce production capacity refers to the amount of ice the machine can produce in a 24-hour period. This is important because it determines how much ice you can have available at any given time. If you entertain often or have a large family, you might need a higher capacity, typically around 30 pounds or more per day. For smaller households or occasional use, a lower capacity, such as 20 pounds per day, might be sufficient. Consider your typical ice usage to decide the right capacity for you.
Ice Storage CapacityIce storage capacity is the amount of ice the machine can hold at one time. This is crucial because it affects how often you need to empty the ice bin. Larger storage capacities mean you can go longer without having to transfer ice to a freezer or use it up. If you use ice frequently throughout the day, look for a machine with a larger storage bin, around 3 pounds or more. For occasional use, a smaller bin, around 1-2 pounds, should suffice.
Size and PortabilityThe size and portability of the ice maker are important for ensuring it fits in your intended space and can be moved if necessary. Measure the space where you plan to place the ice maker and compare it to the dimensions of the models you're considering. If you need to move the ice maker frequently, look for lighter models with handles. For stationary use, size may be less of a concern, but ensure it fits comfortably in your designated area.
Speed of Ice ProductionThe speed of ice production indicates how quickly the machine can produce a batch of ice. This is important if you need ice on demand. Faster machines can produce a batch in as little as 15 minutes, which is ideal for parties or gatherings. If you don't need ice immediately, a slower production time, such as 30 minutes, might be acceptable. Consider how quickly you need ice when making your decision.
Ease of Use and MaintenanceEase of use and maintenance includes how simple the machine is to operate and clean. Look for models with intuitive controls, clear indicators, and easy-to-follow instructions. Maintenance features like self-cleaning functions or removable parts can make upkeep simpler. If you prefer low-maintenance appliances, prioritize these features. Consider how much time and effort you're willing to invest in operating and maintaining the ice maker.
Noise LevelNoise level refers to how loud the ice maker is during operation. This is important if you plan to use the machine in a quiet environment, like a home office or bedroom. Quieter models are typically under 50 decibels, which is about the noise level of a normal conversation. If noise isn't a major concern, you might have more flexibility in your choice. Think about where you'll use the ice maker and how sensitive you are to noise when selecting a model.
Water SourceThe water source for the ice maker can be either a built-in reservoir that you fill manually or a direct water line connection. A built-in reservoir is more flexible and portable, as you can place the machine anywhere with an electrical outlet. However, it requires regular refilling. A direct water line connection offers convenience and continuous operation but requires installation near a water source. Consider your preference for convenience versus flexibility when choosing the water source.

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