10 Best Small Nugget Ice Makers 2026 in the United States

The Kismile Nugget Ice Maker is a solid choice if you're looking for a countertop ice machine that produces chewable, nugget-style ice—great for drinks like cocktails, sodas, and slushies. It can make up to 35 pounds of ice in a day, with the first batch ready in about 7 minutes, so you won't have to wait long for fresh ice. The machine is compact and stylish, fitting comfortably on most kitchen counters without taking up too much space, and it includes a scoop for easy ice handling. It’s also fairly quiet at about 43 decibels, meaning it won't disturb your home environment. One standout feature is its self-cleaning function, which you can start with a simple button press, making maintenance straightforward and hassle-free.

The water tank holds 1.1 liters, so you may find yourself needing to refill it if you use ice heavily throughout the day. While the machine is portable, it requires manual water filling rather than connecting to a water line, which might be less convenient for some. This ice maker is user-friendly and efficient, especially suited for home use where quick, chewable nugget ice is desired without complicated setup or maintenance.

The Scotsman Commercial Nugget Ice Maker (HID312A-1) excels in various key areas for small-nugget-ice-makers. With its impressive capacity to produce up to 260 pounds of nugget ice per day, it is highly suitable for high-demand environments like restaurants or large offices. Its air-cooled system is efficient, potentially lowering energy usage compared to less capable models.

The touchfree infrared dispensing is a notable feature, reducing physical interaction and lowering maintenance costs while keeping the machine hygienic. Additionally, the machine's sealed, maintenance-free bearings and removable dust cover simplify upkeep, making it less hassle for regular users. The large 11-inch dispensing area accommodates larger containers, and the USB port allows for easy software updates, ensuring the machine remains up-to-date and versatile over time.

Operating on a standard electrical setup with the use of R-134a refrigerant, it combines efficiency with sustainable operation. The Scotsman Commercial Nugget Ice Maker is best suited for commercial settings where high output, ease of maintenance, and efficiency are priorities.

The EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker is a compact and efficient countertop machine that produces up to 34 pounds of chewable, pebble-style ice every 24 hours, which is quite good for home use or small gatherings. It starts making ice quickly, delivering the first batch in about 7 minutes, so you won't have to wait long for fresh ice. Its 1.1-liter water tank supports continuous ice production, but you’ll need to refill it manually since it doesn’t connect directly to a water line. The machine’s size (11 x 9.1 x 12.6 inches) and 22-pound weight make it portable enough for kitchens, offices, or RVs without taking up too much space.

Operating the unit is straightforward with a simple one-button start and an automatic self-cleaning feature, which helps keep maintenance hassle-free. The stainless steel design adds durability and a sleek look. While the product is praised for quiet operation, some users might notice typical appliance sounds during ice making. Also, the ice storage is limited to what fits in the built-in bin, so for larger parties, frequent emptying or external storage will be needed.

This ice maker is well suited for those who want soft, chewable nugget ice quickly and easily, especially in settings where portability and ease of use matter most.