7 Best Nugget Ice Makers for Chewable Ice in 2025—Cool, Crunchy, and Refreshing
Choosing the right nugget ice maker in 2025 can seem straightforward, but with options producing up to 40 pounds of soft, chewable ice per day and featuring advanced self-cleaning functions, it’s anything but simple. Do you prioritize portability, capacity, or smart tech? From sleek counters to self-dispensing units, each model promises convenience and quality. Want to make sure your drinks stay perfectly cool and crunchable? Keep going—important details about features and performance could influence your decision more than you’d expect.
EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Self-Cleaning with 35lbs/24H Soft Ice
- Fast & Endless Ice Supply: Euhomy nugget ice maker machine produces soft chewable ice in just 7-10 mins , our countertop ice maker machine filled with a 1.1L...
- Joyful Nugget Ice: Like chewing ice and chilled drink? Our Pebble ice maker machine provides you with crunchy ice, the pellet ice produced by our compact ice...
- Easy to Use: Still worried about having difficulties operating the pebble ice maker machine? Do not worry, our nugget ice maker countertop is designed with a...
If you want a small, dependable ice maker that makes soft, chewable nugget ice, the EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker is a good choice. It can make up to 35 pounds of ice in a day and produces fresh ice in about 7 to 10 minutes. The machine has a 1.1-liter water tank, so you don’t have to keep refilling it all the time. Its sleek stainless steel body (11.02 x 9.06 x 12.6 inches) fits easily on most countertops and is portable enough to use outside. You can turn it on with simple push buttons. It also cleans itself automatically, making it easy to use and maintain. This ice maker gives you consistent, quality ice for drinks, smoothies, or just to keep your drinks cool.
Best For: People who want a small, reliable machine for home, small offices, or outdoor fun. Perfect for making chewable nugget ice for drinks, parties, or snacks.
Pros:
- Makes up to 35 pounds of soft ice daily in just 7-10 minutes
- Small, stylish stainless steel design that fits on most countertops and is easy to move outside
- Simple to use with push-buttons and automatic cleaning
Cons:
- It can be loud, similar to a dishwasher or can opener, which might bother quiet spaces
- The ice in the bin can melt and spill a little because it isn’t insulated
- Sometimes it takes time to start making ice or has trouble forming the ice tower, which may need some fixing
Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, 40lbs/24H Pellet Ice Machine
- High Ice Output & Quick Production**: The INOVIVA countertop ice maker can make up to 40 lbs of chewable nugget ice daily. The first batch is ready in just 10...
- Refreshing Chewable Nugget Ice**: Enjoy soft, crunchy, tooth-friendly ice that’s slow-melting and ideal for beverages. Keeps drinks cool without watering them...
- Automatic Self-Cleaning**: The one-touch, 5-minute self-cleaning cycle keeps your ice maker fresh and low-maintenance. Short-press for 3 seconds to activate.
The Nugget Ice Maker Countertop is a small, easy-to-use machine that makes chewable nugget ice. It can produce up to 40 pounds of ice in 24 hours. The first batch of ice is ready in just 10 minutes, so you get quick refreshment whenever you want.
This ice maker has an upgraded compressor and double-layer insulation. These help keep the ice from melting too fast and give you more ice to store. The size of the machine is 11.8 x 9.25 x 14.9 inches, so it fits easily on most countertops. Simple controls, like one-touch buttons and infrared sensors for “Ice Full” and “Add Water,” make it easy to operate. You just press a button, and it does the rest.
The small ice basket means you will need to refill it often if you use a lot of ice. The machine is a bit heavy and may be hard to move around. Some users have reported issues with malfunction or noise after some time. Regular cleaning can help it last longer.
This ice maker is perfect for home or office use. It is quiet, quick, and compact, making it a good choice if you want chewable ice without the hassle of big, bulky machines.
Best For: People who want a small, easy, and fast way to get chewable nugget ice at home or in the office.
Pros:
- Makes up to 40 pounds of ice each day.
- First batch is ready in just 10 minutes.
- Small size fits easily on your counter.
- Quiet and simple to use with one-touch controls and sensors.
Cons:
- Ice basket is small and needs frequent refills.
- Heavy weight may make it hard to move.
- Some users have experienced problems over time, like noise or malfunctions. Regular cleaning can help keep it working well.
GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker
- OPAL NUGGET ICE, THE GOOD ICE - Serve up chewable, crunchable, craveable nugget ice that's ready fast and retains its flavor, unlike traditional hard cubes....
- 34 POUNDS OF ICE PER DAY - Begin enjoying your first batch of ice in 10 minutes. Never run out of nugget ice thanks to a large capacity ice maker that makes one...
- SUPERIOR CAPACITY - Never run out of nugget ice with a large capacity ice maker that holds up to 3 lbs at a time
The GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker is a popular choice for busy homes and fun gatherings. It makes soft, chewable nugget ice quickly and easily. The sleek metal design fits on most kitchen counters. It can make up to 34 pounds of ice each day, so you won’t run out fast. In about 20 minutes, you get fresh ice ready to use. The ice bin holds around 3 pounds at a time, and the water tank is big, so you don’t need to keep refilling it.
This machine has smart features like WiFi. You can check on it or control it with your phone or use voice commands with Alexa or Google. This makes it easy to get ice without much effort.
However, some people say it can be loud when it’s working. It’s louder than a fridge sometimes. The inside parts may get corroded or leak over time. Also, handling the unit and refilling the water tank can be tricky. It can also get scratches or damage, especially if not handled carefully.
Best for: homes, parties, or small groups who want a steady stream of chewable ice and some smart tech features.
Pros:
- Makes a lot of ice (up to 34 pounds a day)
- Ice is ready in about 20 minutes
- Connects to WiFi for remote check and control
Cons:
- It can be loud during use
- Inside parts may wear out or leak
- Handling and refilling can be hard, and it might get scratched easily
VIVOHOME Electric Portable Countertop Ice Maker with Self Cleaning Function
- ENJOY CHEWABLE NUGGET ICE - The VIVOHOME nugget ice maker is designed to produce soft and chewy sonic ice; Unlike regular ice cubes, nugget ice is soft,...
- EFFICIENT & QUIET - The nugget ice maker can produce 33 lbs. of chewable ice in 24 hours and dispense the first ice within 10 minutes; After filling the water...
- COMPACT DESIGN - The compact pebble ice maker measures 10.7 x 8.3 x 12.6 inches, making it an ideal fit for any kitchen counter; The portable chewy ice maker...
The VIVOHOME Electric Portable Countertop Ice Maker with Self Cleaning Function is a smart choice if you want easy, fast ice. Its small size makes it perfect for small kitchens, outdoor hangouts, or camping trips. It measures just 10.7 by 8.3 by 12.6 inches and weighs only 18.8 pounds. You can get up to 33 pounds of chewable nugget ice each day. Plus, it makes ice in about 10 minutes, so you don’t have to wait long.
This ice maker is simple to use. Its self-cleaning feature keeps it fresh without much effort. It also gives you two sizes of ice, so you can choose what works best for your drinks or snacks. It’s portable and reliable, making it a good helper when you want ice quickly and easily.
This model works well for anyone who wants a compact ice maker they can use at home, outdoors, or in an emergency. It’s easy to move around and doesn’t need complicated installation.
Pros:
- Makes up to 33 pounds of ice each day.
- Creates ice quickly, in about 10 minutes.
- Small and lightweight, easy to carry and fit on a counter.
- Self-cleaning makes maintenance simple and fast.
Cons:
- Ice can stick together, so it might need to be broken apart.
- Some users find the ice cubes larger than expected or see issues if hard water builds up.
- The drain plug can be tricky to handle when cleaning or draining.
If you want a small, fast, easy-to-use ice maker, the VIVOHOME is a good option. It helps you get plenty of ice with little fuss.
VIVOHOME Nugget Ice Maker Countertop
- SWIFT ICE MAKING: Enjoy instant refreshment with the VIVOHOME Nugget Ice Maker; Its powerful compressor increases ice-making efficiency and minimizes noise,...
- CHEWABLE NUGGET ICE: The VIVOHOME sonic ice maker produces crunchy, chewable nugget ice that’s gentle on your teeth with its soft texture; The small pieces of...
- EFFORTLESS OPERATION: The intuitive LCD panel on the ice maker makes operation simple and straightforward; Fill the water tank, plug it in, and press 'ICE' to...
If you want a small, quick ice maker that makes chewable nugget ice in about 10 to 15 minutes, the VIVOHOME Countertop Nugget Ice Maker could be just what you need. It is small enough to fit on most kitchen counters, measuring only 14″ by 9.8″ by 15″. This makes it great for kitchens, offices, RVs, or even camping trips. The machine can make up to 45 pounds of ice in one day, enough for hot days or parties. It has an easy-to-use LCD screen, a see-through window to watch the ice make, LED lights, and it comes with handy accessories like ice bags, a scoop, and a detachable drip tray. It quickly becomes a reliable way to keep cool and enjoy ice anytime.
This ice maker is best for people who want a small, fast machine to make nugget ice at home, at work, or while traveling. It is good if you need ice quickly and want easy-to-maintain equipment.
Pros:
- Makes chewable nugget ice fast, in only 10-15 minutes
- Small size that fits on most counters
- Easy-to-use LCD screen and see-through window to watch the ice
- Comes with useful accessories like ice bags, a scoop, and a drip tray
Cons:
- Some users have had mechanical problems after a few months
- It can be noisy and loud during use
- Its size may take up space on your counter, which might be a concern if space is limited
Frigidaire EFIC245 3-in-1 Countertop Ice Maker with Dispenser
- Note : Please check the dimension and item weight of the product and confirm it fits your space.frequency : 60 hertz
- DESIGNED FOR CONVENIENCE: This convenient, stainless steel ice maker looks good on a countertop while producing ice and water for whenever or wherever you need...
- QUICK-FREEZING ICE: Makes 14 small or large bullet-shaped ice cubes in as little as 10 minutes, making it hard to ever run out of ice
If you want a small countertop appliance that does a lot, the Frigidaire EFIC245-SS might catch your eye. It’s 17 inches deep, 12 inches wide, and 19 inches tall. It weighs about 19 pounds. This machine makes up to 33 pounds of ice each day. It can make different kinds of ice, including chewy nugget ice and small or large cubes. It takes about 10 minutes to make a batch.
The machine has a 2.5-quart water tank. You can use it with the water line for continuous ice or fill it manually. It not only makes ice but can also dispense water and connect to a water line. That makes it a handy all-in-one device.
But, it has some problems. The machine can jam, stick, or stop working over time. It can also leak or leak water. Cleaning it is not easy because of build-up and tricky access. This makes it less reliable in the long run. The initial cost is higher, and repairs might be needed later.
Best For: Small homes or offices that want a compact machine for occasional ice and water. Be ready to clean and maintain it regularly.
Pros:
- Combines ice making, water dispensing, and line-in connection in one
- Produces up to 33 pounds of ice each day
- Makes small or large cubes quickly, in about 10 minutes
Cons:
- Can jam, stick, or break down over time
- Hard to clean and keep in good shape
- Costs more upfront and might need repairs later
If you want a machine that does many things but don’t mind cleaning and occasional repairs, this could work for you. Just remember, it’s not built for heavy, long-term use.
COSTWAY Self-Dispensing Nugget Ice Maker
- 🧊 [Self-dispensing Ice Maker] No more struggling to scoop ice. A simple pull of the lever releases perfectly formed sonic ice cubes directly into your glass...
- 🧊 [Effortless Ice Production] With a single button, you can initiate the ice-making process, with nugget ice cubes ready in just 15 minutes. Additionally,...
- 🧊 [Self-cleaning Convenience] The user-friendly control panel features indicators for ice full and water shortage, along with a self-cleaning function. To...
If you want an easy way to get ice, check out the COSTWAY Self-Dispensing Nugget Ice Maker. It sits on your countertop and makes up to 56 pounds of soft, chewable ice in one day. This is great for parties or just everyday use. The machine has a self-dispensing lever that lets you pour ice into your glass or container without scooping. It has a 0.68-gallon water tank that you can refill easily, or remove to clean. The ice is ready in just 15 minutes, and the self-cleaning feature helps keep the machine fresh with little effort. Its stainless steel design looks nice and lasts a long time. The indicator lights show when it’s working or needs attention. Keep in mind, it can be a little noisy during busy ice-making times.
Who should get this?
This is a good choice for people or families who want quick, easy, and stylish ice at home. It’s perfect for parties or outdoor activities.
Pros:
- Makes up to 56 pounds of nugget ice each day, great for lots of use.
- Self-dispensing lever keeps things clean and easy.
- Produces ice fast, in just 15 minutes.
- Easy to clean with simple indicators for current status.
Cons:
- It can make some noise when it’s on, which might bother quiet spaces.
- Sometimes mold or durability issues can happen if you don’t clean it regularly.
- The ice dispenses slower than some big or commercial ice makers.
This machine is a handy and fun way to get ice quickly, and it looks nice on your counter. Just remember to keep it clean and expect some noise when it’s working hard.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Nugget Ice Makers for Chewable Ice
When selecting a nugget ice maker, you’ll want to take into account the underlying ice production technology, as some models use compressor-based systems while others rely on alternative methods, affecting both efficiency and noise levels. Size and capacity matter too—whether you need a compact unit for personal use or a larger machine capable of producing up to 50 pounds of ice daily, matching your needs is key. Don’t forget ease of use, maintenance, and durability—after all, a machine that’s a pain to clean or breaks down frequently isn’t worth the investment, no matter how good the ice tastes.
Types of Ice Production Technology
Ever wonder how nugget ice machines work? Most of these machines use either snowboard or auger-based systems to make the ice. They use compressors and water-cooling to freeze water quickly, usually in about 6 to 10 minutes. The ice that comes out is small, hollow, and has a weird shape. The machine shaves or crushes ice flakes and pushes them into pellet shapes. This gives each ice nugget its bumpy, chewy texture. Some machines have sensors like ultrasonic or infrared ones. These sensors check how much ice is inside and help the machine keep making ice without wasting water. The type of technology a machine uses can change how the ice feels, melts, and sounds. All these things matter because they can affect how happy you are with your ice machine. Knowing how they work helps you pick the right nugget ice maker for you.
Size and Capacity Options
Nugget ice makers come in different sizes and powers. Some are small and fit on a kitchen counter. These usually measure about 11 to 18 inches wide, tall, and deep. They are good for small kitchens or spaces with limited room.
The amount of ice these machines make also varies. Small machines can hold 2 to 3 pounds of ice in their baskets. Larger models can produce over 40 pounds of ice each day. These big machines are useful if you have many guests or need a lot of ice often.
Many nugget ice makers have removable baskets. These baskets can store 2 to 5 pounds of ice. They let you easily get the ice you need quickly.
If you have friends over or use a lot of ice, a bigger machine is better. For occasional use or small spaces, a smaller one works fine.
When choosing a nugget ice maker, think about how much space you have and how much ice you need. Picking the right size makes using the machine easier and more helpful.
Ease of Use & Cleaning
Picking a nugget ice maker that’s easy to use makes your daily life much simpler. Look for models with simple controls, like buttons you press with one touch or lights that show you what’s happening. Self-cleaning features save you time by making cleaning quick and easy. Removable water tanks help you refill and clean the machine fast. Some ice makers give you alerts when the water is low or the ice bin is full. This stops you from running out of ice unexpectedly. Be sure to check how long the cleaning cycle takes—that way, you can keep your machine hygienic without any hassle. An ice maker that’s easy to operate and clean helps you get fresh ice fast and keeps everything running smoothly.
Noise Levels and Operation
When choosing a nugget ice machine, it’s important to think about how loud it is. If you want a quiet space, like a bedroom or an office, you should watch for the noise level. These machines make sounds that range from very quiet, similar to a dishwasher (around 50 decibels), to louder, like a can-opener (around 70 decibels). Most of the noise comes from the compressor and fans, especially when the machine is making a lot of ice. Some models have special features to reduce noise. They might have insulated cabinets or quieter compressors, which can make the noise 10 to 15 decibels lower. Also, keep in mind that some functions, like self-cleaning or ice dispensing, can make more noise for a short time. If you want a very quiet machine, check its decibel rating first.
Durability & Maintenance Needs
Durability is very important when choosing a nugget ice maker. You want a machine that lasts a long time and makes good ice. Look for models made with strong materials like stainless steel or thick plastics. These materials resist rust and damage better than cheap parts.
Regular cleaning helps keep your ice maker in good shape. So, clean the water reservoir and other parts often. This stops minerals from building up inside. Mineral deposits can clog the machine and make the ice worse. Some ice makers have a self-cleaning button, but it does not always remove all buildup. You might need to clean with vinegar or a cleaning solution sometimes.
Also, check how the machine is built. Good seals and insulation prevent water leaks and damage. Make sure the parts are easy to access and replace if needed. Handling your ice maker carefully and doing routine cleaning can make it last longer. This saves you money and headaches in the future.
Design & Portability Features
Design and portability are important when choosing a nugget ice maker. These machines are made to be easy to move and use. Most portable ice makers are less than 20 inches tall and weigh under 40 pounds. This makes them simple to carry and put on different countertops. Many have built-in handles or are lightweight, perfect for outside parties or camping trips.
They usually have small water tanks, between 1.1 and 1.8 liters. This size allows for quick refills. Removable ice bins make cleanup easy and fast. Some models have sleek finishes like stainless steel or modern plastic. These looks help the machine fit into your kitchen or patio decor.
Many portable ice makers have useful built-in features. For example, some have self-cleaning cycles, so you don’t need to scrub them often. Indicator lights tell you when the ice is ready or when to add water. These features lower the amount of work needed to keep the machine running smoothly. Overall, good design and easy portability let you enjoy crunchy, chewable ice anytime without trouble.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Nugget Ice Makers Compare in Energy Efficiency?
You’re curious about energy efficiency in nugget ice makers. You’ll find that newer models use advanced technology, consume less power, and are more eco-friendly, helping you save money and reduce your environmental impact while enjoying your favorite ice.
What Maintenance Is Required for Self-Cleaning Models?
You need to regularly check the water reservoir, run the self-cleaning cycle as instructed, and clean the ice bin and exterior to keep your machine running efficiently and prevent buildup, ensuring fresh, tasty ice always.
Can Nugget Ice Makers Operate Outdoors?
You can operate nugget ice makers outdoors if they’re specifically designed for outdoor use, with proper protection from weather, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines to guarantee safe, reliable outdoor operation.
How Long Does It Typically Take to Produce a Batch of Ice?
You’ll usually wait about 20 to 30 minutes for a batch of ice from a nugget ice maker. Factors like size, model, and temperature settings can impact this time, but patience guarantees you’re rewarded with fresh, chewable ice.
Are Certain Models Quieter During Operation?
You might notice some models are quieter, especially those with advanced insulation and quieter compressors. When choosing, look for reviews highlighting noise levels and features designed to minimize sound during operation.
Hi, I’m Liza Jensen, your culinary companion here at Recipe by Liza. 🍳🥗Cooking has always been my passion—I find joy in every whisk, every sizzle, and every aromatic spice. As a home cook and recipe developer, I’ve explored flavors from around the world, creating dishes that warm hearts and tantalize taste buds.Join me on this flavorful journey! Let’s swap kitchen stories, share tips, and celebrate the magic of food together.
