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10 Best Countertop Ice Makers For Nugget Ice 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Scotsman Commercial Nugget ice Maker, Ice and Water Dispenser with Storage (HID312A-1) 260 pounds per Day

The Scotsman Commercial Nugget Ice Maker (HID312A-1) is a high-capacity machine capable of producing up to 260 pounds of nugget ice per day. This impressive production capacity makes it suitable for busy environments such as offices, cafes, or small restaurants. Its air-cooled system ensures efficient and reliable ice production, potentially reducing energy consumption compared to less efficient models. The touch-free infrared dispensing minimizes physical interaction, adding convenience and lowering maintenance needs by reducing wear and tear.

Maintenance is further simplified by sealed, maintenance-free bearings and a removable dust cover, which can help decrease the frequency and cost of service calls. The 11” dispensing area is large enough to accommodate bigger containers, and the USB port allows for easy software updates, enhancing the machine’s adaptability and longevity. Additionally, it uses R-134a refrigerant, known for its efficiency, and operates on standard electrical setups, helping to keep energy costs manageable.

However, the machine’s large size (24.38”D x 16.25”W x 35”H) and weight might limit its portability, making it less ideal for users who need a more compact and portable solution. Furthermore, with a wattage of 800 watts, it may consume more electricity compared to smaller models. This unit is best suited for commercial settings where high ice production and ease of use are essential.

#2

Silonn Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with App & Voice Control, 40 lbs/24H Pebble Ice Machine, 3L Water Tank, Self Cleaning Sonic Ice Maker, Soft Chewable Ice for Home, Kitchen, Party

Rating
9.4
Ice Production Capacity
Ice Storage Capacity
Production Speed

Most important from
3914 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
A sizable water tank allows for extended ice production before needing a refill, supporting continuous use for hours.
Ice Storage Capacity
The ice storage bin fills up fairly quickly, and while it stops production when full, the size suits typical personal use perfectly.
Production Speed
The ice maker’s quick production speed and consistent quality make it a reliable choice for daily home use or small gatherings.
Size and Portability
Its compact design fits neatly on countertops without dominating kitchen space.
Ease of Use
Setup is straightforward with clear instructions, making it easy to start enjoying ice quickly.
Noise Level
The machine operates quietly, with only occasional sounds when ice drops, which are easy to get used to.

The Silonn Nugget Ice Maker is a great option for anyone wanting soft, chewable ice at home or for small gatherings. It produces up to 40 pounds of nugget ice per day, which should be enough for family use or parties. Its 3-liter detachable water tank allows for about 7.5 hours of continuous ice making on one fill, and the clear tank and basket make it easy to see water and ice levels at a glance.

The machine is quite compact (about 12 by 10 by 15 inches), making it easy to fit on most countertops without taking up too much space. It also operates quietly, producing noise levels between 40-50 decibels, so it won’t disturb your living space. An appealing feature is the smart app and voice control, letting you start ice production remotely or hands-free, which adds convenience for busy users. The built-in self-cleaning function simplifies maintenance and helps keep ice hygienic.

The 3-liter water tank, while large, may require refilling during heavy use or very large gatherings. Although app and voice control add convenience, they may not be necessary for all users and could introduce some complexity. This ice maker balances ease of use with smart features and produces quality nugget ice quickly, making it a solid choice for those who want chewable ice regularly without a bulky machine.

Rating
9.4
Ice Production Capacity
Ice Storage Capacity
Production Speed

Most important from
3914 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
A sizable water tank allows for extended ice production before needing a refill, supporting continuous use for hours.
Ice Storage Capacity
The ice storage bin fills up fairly quickly, and while it stops production when full, the size suits typical personal use perfectly.
Production Speed
The ice maker’s quick production speed and consistent quality make it a reliable choice for daily home use or small gatherings.
Size and Portability
Its compact design fits neatly on countertops without dominating kitchen space.
Ease of Use
Setup is straightforward with clear instructions, making it easy to start enjoying ice quickly.
Noise Level
The machine operates quietly, with only occasional sounds when ice drops, which are easy to get used to.
#3

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 (Silver)

Rating
8.8
Ice Production Capacity
Size and Portability
Noise Level

Most important from
16929 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
Produces soft, chewable nugget ice quickly, with the first batch ready in about 6 minutes and steady ice production thereafter.
Size and Portability
Compact design with a small footprint fits nicely on the counter and includes a built-in handle for easy portability.
Noise Level
Runs quietly under 50 dB, making it unobtrusive during use, though some notice a bit of noise when operating.
Water Source
Requires manual water refilling and occasional maintenance like pushing ice down to keep production running smoothly.
Ice Storage Capacity
Ice basket holds a modest amount of ice, suitable for small groups or occasional use rather than heavy demand.

The EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker is a solid choice if you want quick, chewable nugget ice at home or on the go. It produces up to 34 pounds of ice per day and starts making ice in about 6 minutes, which is fast enough for most entertaining or daily needs. Its compact size and built-in handle make it portable for use in places like parties, RV trips, or camping. With a removable 1.8-pound basket, it can store a decent amount of ice, though you might need to empty it regularly if you use a lot.

It uses a 1.2-quart water tank, so you’ll have to refill it manually but the machine alerts you when water is low. The unit runs quietly at under 50 dB, which means it shouldn’t disturb conversations or sleep. Cleaning is made easier by an auto-cleaning function and a removable top cover, helping keep the ice fresh and the machine in good shape. It’s energy-efficient too, using about 1 kWh over 8 hours.

One downside is that it relies on a water tank rather than a direct water connection, which means more hands-on refilling if you want continuous ice. Also, while the ice basket holds some ice, it’s not a large capacity, so it’s best suited for small groups or occasional use rather than heavy commercial needs. The stainless steel design looks sleek and durable, and with ETL certification, safety is assured. This nugget ice maker is a user-friendly, portable, and efficient option for those wanting soft, chewable ice mainly for home or light outdoor use.

Rating
8.8
Ice Production Capacity
Size and Portability
Noise Level

Most important from
16929 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
Produces soft, chewable nugget ice quickly, with the first batch ready in about 6 minutes and steady ice production thereafter.
Size and Portability
Compact design with a small footprint fits nicely on the counter and includes a built-in handle for easy portability.
Noise Level
Runs quietly under 50 dB, making it unobtrusive during use, though some notice a bit of noise when operating.
Water Source
Requires manual water refilling and occasional maintenance like pushing ice down to keep production running smoothly.
Ice Storage Capacity
Ice basket holds a modest amount of ice, suitable for small groups or occasional use rather than heavy demand.

Buying Guide for the Best Countertop Ice Makers For Nugget Ice

Choosing the right countertop ice maker for nugget ice can significantly enhance your beverage experience. Nugget ice, also known as pellet or chewable ice, is popular for its soft, chewable texture and ability to absorb flavors. When selecting a countertop ice maker, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get a machine that meets your needs and fits your lifestyle. Here are the key specs to look out for 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 on hand for your needs. Ice makers typically range from producing 20 pounds to over 50 pounds of ice per day. If you entertain frequently or have a large family, a higher capacity machine (30-50 pounds) would be ideal. For smaller households or occasional use, a lower capacity (20-30 pounds) should suffice.
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. Storage capacities can range from 2 pounds to over 5 pounds. If you need a constant supply of ice throughout the day, opt for a larger storage capacity. For occasional use or smaller gatherings, a smaller storage capacity will be adequate.
Production SpeedProduction speed indicates how quickly the machine can produce ice. This is important if you need ice on demand or for events. Some machines can produce ice in as little as 15 minutes, while others may take up to an hour. If you need ice quickly, look for a machine with a faster production speed. For less urgent needs, a slower production speed may be acceptable.
Size and PortabilityThe size and portability of the ice maker are important for ensuring it fits in your kitchen or designated space. Countertop ice makers come in various sizes, so measure your space before purchasing. If you plan to move the ice maker frequently, consider a lighter, more portable model. For a permanent spot in your kitchen, a larger, heavier model may be suitable.
Ease of UseEase of use includes features like digital controls, self-cleaning functions, and clear indicators for water levels and ice readiness. These features can make the ice maker more convenient to operate and maintain. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, look for models with user-friendly controls and maintenance features. For those who don't mind a bit of manual effort, simpler models may be sufficient.
Noise LevelNoise level is an important consideration, especially if the ice maker will be used in a quiet environment like an office or a small apartment. Some ice makers can be quite noisy, while others operate more quietly. If noise is a concern, look for models that are specifically designed to operate quietly. For less noise-sensitive environments, the noise level may be less of a priority.
Water SourceThe water source for the ice maker can be either a built-in water reservoir or a direct water line connection. A built-in reservoir requires manual refilling, which can be convenient if you don't have access to a water line. A direct water line connection provides a continuous water supply, which is ideal for high usage. Choose the option that best fits your setup and usage patterns.

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