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10 Best Cube Ice Machines 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Hoshizaki C-80BAJ 14 7/8" Air-Cooled Undercounter Cubelet Ice Machine Maker with 22 lb. Storage Capacity, 80 lbs/Day, Stainless Steel, 115v

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,169
Ice Production Capacity
Ice Cube Size and Shape
Ease of Maintenance

Most important from
13 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
Fits perfectly in the same under-counter space and is less expensive while producing ice faster.
Ice Cube Size and Shape
Ice is slightly more dense and lasts longer, though it is a bit less chewable than the Scotsman.
Ease of Maintenance
The water pump is more affordable than some reviews suggest, and can be self-installed to save costs.

The Hoshizaki C-80BAJ Cubelet Ice Machine is an undercounter unit that efficiently meets the ice-making needs of small to medium-size settings like homes, offices, and small bars. It has a respectable ice production capacity of up to 80 lbs per day, which is suitable for moderate daily demand. With a built-in storage capacity of 22 lbs, it ensures you have a ready supply of ice at all times, although it may not suffice during peak usage moments in very high-demand environments. The mini cubelet, nugget-style ice it produces is popular for its chewable texture, making it great for beverages and therapeutic uses.

The compact undercounter design (less than 34″ tall) allows it to fit snugly into tight spaces, making it an excellent choice for those with limited space. The stainless steel finish not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also ensures durability and easy cleaning. The machine requires 460 watts of power, which is relatively efficient for its output, but potential buyers should consider their energy consumption requirements.

Maintenance-wise, Hoshizaki products are generally known for their reliability, but regular cleaning and occasional professional servicing are recommended to keep the machine in optimal working condition. However, the upfront cost may be higher compared to other models, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. In conclusion, the Hoshizaki C-80BAJ offers solid performance, especially for small to medium-scale ice needs, and its durable build and design make it a worthy investment for those looking for a reliable ice-making solution.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,169
Ice Production Capacity
Ice Cube Size and Shape
Ease of Maintenance

Most important from
13 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
Fits perfectly in the same under-counter space and is less expensive while producing ice faster.
Ice Cube Size and Shape
Ice is slightly more dense and lasts longer, though it is a bit less chewable than the Scotsman.
Ease of Maintenance
The water pump is more affordable than some reviews suggest, and can be self-installed to save costs.
#2

Modular Commercial Cube Ice Maker Machine by Manitowoc

Rating
9.7
Ice Production Capacity
Ease of Maintenance

Most important from
12 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
The machine delivers ice production rapidly, making it ideal for busy commercial settings.
Ease of Maintenance
Maintenance is straightforward thanks to features that simplify cleaning and upkeep.

The Manitowoc Modular Commercial Cube Ice Maker IDT0300A+D400 is a solid choice for businesses needing consistent, high-volume ice production. It produces up to 305 pounds of full-sized cube ice daily, which fits well for busy restaurants, bars, or cafes. The included D400 storage bin holds 264 pounds, giving plenty of room to store ice without frequent refills. Its air-cooled system is reliable for maintaining steady ice output in various commercial environments.

A notable convenience is the One-Touch cleaning feature, which simplifies maintenance and saves time compared to manual cleaning routines. The machine is also built with a durable exterior, designed to endure the tough demands of commercial use. On the downside, the energy consumption is 5.56 kWh, which is average but might be a factor to consider for those prioritizing energy costs. The size is fairly compact for a commercial unit, but it still requires adequate space in your establishment.

While it excels in producing full cube ice, it may not offer multiple cube size or shape options if you want more variety. This Manitowoc ice maker suits businesses looking for a dependable, easy-to-maintain machine with strong production and storage capacity, rather than those needing low energy use or specialized ice shapes.

Rating
9.7
Ice Production Capacity
Ease of Maintenance

Most important from
12 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
The machine delivers ice production rapidly, making it ideal for busy commercial settings.
Ease of Maintenance
Maintenance is straightforward thanks to features that simplify cleaning and upkeep.
#3

Profile 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, Black Stainless

Rating
9.1
Ice Production Capacity
Ice Storage Capacity
Ice Cube Size and Shape

Most important from
1980 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
While a bit noisy, this model delivers some of the best nugget ice performance available in countertop machines.
Ice Storage Capacity
The increased water tank capacity in this model supports larger family needs without frequent refills.
Ice Cube Size and Shape
The nugget ice produced is highly enjoyable, with many impressed by its soft, chewable texture.
Ease of Maintenance
Regular cleaning every two weeks is essential to prevent buildup of bacteria and algae, ensuring consistent ice quality.

The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL is a countertop nugget ice maker designed to produce soft, chewable ice that's ideal for drinks. It can produce up to 38 pounds of ice in 24 hours, which provides strong production capacity for home or small office use. The included 1-gallon water tank eliminates the need to connect to a water line, allowing easy placement anywhere. The machine stores about 3 pounds of ice at a time, so if you require a large amount of ice quickly, you may need to wait for the next batch.

The nugget-shaped ice is small and pellet-like, which many find more enjoyable than regular cubes, especially for cold drinks. The unit uses 300 watts of power, which is reasonable though not the most energy-efficient option available, making it a consideration for those looking to save on electricity. Maintenance is simplified by an advanced cleaning system that helps keep the ice tasting fresh; however, the water filter and cleaning kit must be purchased separately, resulting in some ongoing costs.

Equipped with built-in WiFi and smart features, the ice maker allows monitoring and control remotely via an app or voice commands, providing added convenience for tech-savvy users. Its fairly compact size combined with stainless steel construction gives it a sleek appearance suitable for modern kitchens. This ice maker suits those seeking tasty, soft nugget ice with smart controls and decent daily production, though regular cleaning and managing the smaller ice storage capacity are necessary.

Rating
9.1
Ice Production Capacity
Ice Storage Capacity
Ice Cube Size and Shape

Most important from
1980 reviews

Ice Production Capacity
While a bit noisy, this model delivers some of the best nugget ice performance available in countertop machines.
Ice Storage Capacity
The increased water tank capacity in this model supports larger family needs without frequent refills.
Ice Cube Size and Shape
The nugget ice produced is highly enjoyable, with many impressed by its soft, chewable texture.
Ease of Maintenance
Regular cleaning every two weeks is essential to prevent buildup of bacteria and algae, ensuring consistent ice quality.

Buying Guide for the Best Cube Ice Machines

Choosing the right cube ice machine can be a bit overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Cube ice machines are essential for various settings, including restaurants, bars, and even home use. The key is to understand your specific requirements and match them with the machine's capabilities. Here are some important specifications to consider when selecting a cube ice machine.
Ice Production CapacityIce production capacity refers to the amount of ice a machine can produce in a 24-hour period. This is crucial because it determines whether the machine can meet your daily ice needs. Ice production capacities can range from as low as 20 pounds per day to over 1,000 pounds per day. For home use or small offices, a machine with a lower capacity (20-50 pounds) might be sufficient. For larger establishments like restaurants or bars, you might need a machine that produces 200 pounds or more per day. Assess your daily ice consumption to choose the right capacity.
Ice Storage CapacityIce storage capacity is the amount of ice the machine can hold at any given time. This is important because it ensures you have a reserve of ice ready for use, especially during peak times. Storage capacities can vary widely, from small bins holding 10 pounds to large bins holding several hundred pounds. If you have fluctuating ice needs or expect high demand periods, opt for a machine with a larger storage capacity. For consistent, low-demand use, a smaller storage capacity will suffice.
Ice Cube Size and ShapeIce cube size and shape can affect the cooling efficiency and aesthetic appeal of your drinks. Common shapes include full cubes, half cubes, and gourmet cubes. Full cubes are larger and melt slowly, making them ideal for cocktails and spirits. Half cubes are smaller and melt faster, suitable for soft drinks and blended beverages. Gourmet cubes are often used in upscale settings for their visual appeal. Consider the type of beverages you serve and choose the ice shape that complements them best.
Machine TypeCube ice machines come in different types, including modular, undercounter, and countertop models. Modular machines are large and designed to sit on top of ice storage bins or beverage dispensers, making them suitable for high-volume needs. Undercounter machines are compact and fit under standard countertops, ideal for bars or small kitchens. Countertop machines are portable and convenient for small spaces or occasional use. Determine the space you have available and the volume of ice you need to decide on the right type.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency is an important consideration for both environmental and cost reasons. Energy-efficient ice machines consume less electricity and water, reducing your utility bills and environmental footprint. Look for machines with Energy Star certification, which indicates they meet specific energy-saving standards. If you use the machine frequently, investing in an energy-efficient model can lead to significant savings over time.
Ease of MaintenanceEase of maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of your ice machine. Regular cleaning and maintenance prevent the buildup of scale and bacteria, ensuring the ice remains clean and safe. Some machines come with self-cleaning features or easy-to-remove parts that simplify the maintenance process. Consider how much time and effort you can dedicate to maintenance and choose a machine that aligns with your capabilities.

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