6 Best Nugget Ice Makers for Soft Ice in 2026

If you’re after soft, chewable ice without the hassle of bulky machines, 2026 offers several top contenders. These nugget ice makers are compact, quick to produce ice—some in as little as five minutes—and feature user-friendly options like auto-cleaning and digital controls. They’re perfect for home bars, offices, or outdoor gatherings, but choosing the right one requires understanding specs like daily output, noise levels, and storage. Curious which models stand out? Let’s explore what makes these devices a smart choice.

EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop

If you like quick, crunchy nugget ice, the EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker is a good option. It makes ice in just six minutes. It can make up to 34 pounds of ice each day, so you always have plenty for parties or snacks. The soft, pellet ice is great for smoothies, coffee, or keeping drinks cool. It’s small and light, so you can move it easily. It has a handle and a big window to watch the ice as it makes.

This ice maker is best for people who want fast, portable ice. It’s good for making drinks or snacks at home or when you’re on the go.

Pros:

• Makes ice quickly in 6 minutes.
• Can make up to 34 pounds of ice each day.
• Small and light, with a handle to carry it.
• Easy to use, with features like auto-cleaning and a big window.
• Has safety alerts to help you keep it in good shape.

Cons:

• It might make some noise, below 50 dB. This can be loud if your area is very quiet.
• It only sits on a countertop, so space might be limited.
• You need to bring in water and clean it regularly to keep it working well.

This ice maker is simple and easy to use. It’s a good choice if you want quick, soft nuggets of ice for your drinks or snacks.

Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker with Auto-Cleaning

The Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker with Auto-Cleaning is a popular choice for those who want easy and reliable ice. It makes soft, chewable nugget ice that’s perfect for drinks and cocktails. The machine has a sleek stainless steel look and is small enough to sit on your countertop. It can make up to 34 pounds of ice in a day. The first batch is ready in just 10 minutes, so you won’t wait long for refreshing ice.

This ice maker is simple to keep clean. It has a one-touch auto-clean button that makes maintenance quick and easy. Plus, it has lights to show when it’s full or needs cleaning, so it won’t overflow or run dry. It’s lightweight and easy to move around, making it good for your home, office, or even outdoor trips. It’s reliable and easy to use, so you always have soft, restaurant-quality ice when you need it.

Best For: People who need a small, fast, and easy-to-maintain nugget ice maker for home, work, or outdoor use.

Pros:

• Makes up to 34 pounds of soft ice each day.
• Has a one-touch auto-clean for quick maintenance.
• Small and lightweight, with a handle to carry easily.

Cons:

• Costs more than simple ice makers.
• Small size means you need to empty it often if you use a lot of ice.
• Can make some noise during use, which might bother quiet spaces.

Kismile Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, Self-Cleaning

The Kismile Countertop Nugget Ice Maker has a special self-cleaning feature. Just press a button for 5 seconds to start cleaning. The cycle takes about 15 minutes. This keeps your ice fresh and germs away.

It has a small, stylish size that fits on most counters. The water tank holds 1.1 liters and makes up to 35 pounds of nugget ice each day. That’s perfect for house parties or daily snacks. The machine runs quietly at 43 decibels, so it won’t bother you. A clear window shows how much ice is ready. Plus, it includes a scoop for easy serving.

This ice maker is great for people or hosts who want clean ice anytime. It’s simple to use and looks nice on your counter.

Pros:

• Self-cleaning keeps the ice fresh and germs free
• Small size fits in tight spots
• Makes a lot of ice fast, good for parties

Cons:

• The water tank is small, so you may need to refill often
• It’s a little noisy in very quiet spaces
• Only for countertop use, not easy to move around

EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker with Scoop & Basket

Looking for a small, reliable nugget ice maker that fits on your counter? The EUHOMY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker is a good choice. It measures 12.6 by 10.2 by 14.6 inches and weighs about 20.8 pounds. You can put it in the kitchen, office, or even in an RV. It makes soft, chewable ice in just 7 to 10 minutes. The 1.1-liter water tank keeps the machine running smoothly. It can make up to 35 pounds of ice each day.

Using it is easy. Just press a button to start. It also has a self-cleaning option to keep it tidy with little effort. Comes with a scoop and basket so you can serve the ice easily. Plus, the company offers solid support if you need help.

This ice maker is perfect if you want fresh, chewable ice for drinks, parties, or on the go.

Pros:

• Small enough to keep on most countertops.
• Makes ice fast — in about 7-10 minutes.
• Can produce up to 35 pounds a day.
• Easy to use with one button.
• Self-cleaning keeps maintenance simple.

Cons:

• Uses a bit more energy — 128 watts — which might cost more on your electric bill over time.
• The new units have a blue/green film that needs to be wiped off before use. This could confuse new users.
• The water tank is small at 1.1 liters, so you need to refill it often if you use a lot of ice.

This ice maker is a good small appliance if you want fresh, chewable ice always ready. It’s quick, easy, and portable enough to take with you.

Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, 40lbs/Day, Self-Cleaning

If you love having cool, chewable nugget ice, this countertop ice maker is a great pick. It makes up to 40 pounds of ice each day, so you always have fresh ice on hand. The ice is soft and small, perfect for drinks without watering them down.

This ice maker is small and fits easily in kitchens, bars, or offices. It measures only 7.28 inches wide, 13 inches deep, and 12.68 inches tall. It has simple one-touch buttons, so you can turn it on or off easily. Plus, it comes with handy accessories like a two-pound basket, a scoop, and a drip tray to catch any drips.

The machine has a built-in self-cleaning feature. This means it keeps itself clean and ready to use, so you don’t have to do much. It makes sure the ice is always fresh and hygienic, with no extra work for you.

This ice maker is perfect for families, parties, and busy homes. It helps you get soft, chewable ice quickly. The first batch of ice can be ready in just five minutes.

Just keep in mind, this machine works only on a countertop and is best for small to medium needs. It produces up to 40 pounds of ice each day, which might not be enough for very big events. Also, it needs electricity and specific voltage, so you can’t take it anywhere easily.

If you want easy ice, fun drinks, and a neat space, this nugget ice maker can help. It’s simple, quick, and keeps your drinks cool without watering them down.

Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop

The Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop is a great choice if you want a small, portable ice machine. It makes soft, chewable “Sonic-style” ice right on your countertop. It warms up quickly and makes ice in just 10 minutes after you turn it on. It can make up to 34 pounds of ice in a day, so you always have plenty for parties or hot days. It also offers a storage space for 12-15 pounds of ice, so you can keep some ready to use.

This ice maker is lightweight, weighing just over 20 pounds. You can carry it easily with its handle. Its stainless steel look makes it nice to keep in your kitchen. The controls are simple, so it is easy to use and clean. It even has an auto-clean feature that keeps it working smoothly. You can place this ice maker in your kitchen, dorm room, or even on a boat.

If you need a small and portable ice maker for gatherings, trips, or small spaces, this model works well.

Here are some good and bad points:

Pros:

• It makes soft, chewable ice in only 10 minutes.
• It can produce a lot of ice in a day, perfect for big groups.
• It’s light and easy to carry with a handle.

Cons:

• It can be a bit loud during operation.
• The ice storage is limited, so you might need to refill more often.
• It needs an electrical outlet and can’t work with only a generator or when off-grid.

This ice maker is helpful if you want quick, portable, and easy-to-use ice at home or anywhere you go.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Nugget Ice Makers for Soft Ice

When choosing a nugget ice maker, it’s important to consider how quickly it can produce ice, especially if you’re hosting parties or running a busy bar. Portability and size matter if you have limited space or plan to move it around, while ease of cleaning helps keep maintenance simple and hassle-free. Don’t forget to check the noise level and capacity—after all, no one wants a noisy machine or to run out of ice during a vital moment.

Ice Production Rate

Ice production rate is an important thing to think about when choosing a nugget ice maker. This tells you how much ice the machine can make in one day. Most models can make between 34 and 40 pounds of ice each day. Knowing this helps you see if the machine can keep up with your needs. If you have a small family or a busy bar, a higher production rate is better.

Many ice makers can make ice quickly. They often produce the first batch in about 5 to 10 minutes. If you need ice fast, some models have a fast-start button that makes a small batch in just 5 minutes. This is helpful if you are in a hurry.

It is also good to get a machine that makes ice consistently. During busy times, this keeps you from running out of ice. It makes sure you always have soft, chewable ice for parties or weekends. So, check how much ice the machine makes and how quickly it can start. This will help you choose the right nugget ice maker for your needs.

Portability And Size

If you want a nugget ice maker you can move easily, size and portability are really important. Small models usually measure about 9 to 13 inches on each side. They fit well on most countertops and don’t take up too much space. Portable machines often weigh between 19 and 21 pounds. They are made to be moved around easily, with features like built-in handles and removable parts that make carrying simple. Smaller ice makers are a good choice if you have little space. You can use them in RVs, camping trips, or small kitchens. Plus, their small size means you don’t need special plumbing or a permanent spot. Whether you want to move the ice maker often or save space, choosing a smaller, lightweight model makes it easy to enjoy soft, chewable nugget ice wherever you need it.

Ease Of Cleaning

Cleaning your ice maker should be easy. Look for models with a self-cleaning button. Pressing this button starts a cleaning cycle that lasts about 15 minutes. It saves time and keeps the ice maker clean. Make sure parts like the top cover, ice basket, and scoop come out easily. This makes it simple to wipe or replace them. Some ice makers have alert lights for low water or when it’s time to clean. These alerts help you keep the device hygienic and working well.

Pick a machine made from stainless steel or strong plastic. These materials are easy to wipe and stay clean longer. Regular auto-clean cycles help the ice maker work better. They also make it last longer without needing special tools or disassembly. Keeping your ice maker clean is simple and keeps your ice fresh and ready to use.

Noise Levels

When choosing a nugget ice maker, it’s important to think about how loud it is. Most nugget ice machines are quiet. They usually make noise between 43 and 50 decibels. That’s about the same noise level as a quiet conversation or a soft hum in the background. If you want no noise at all, look for models that are quieter. Quiet models are good for quiet places like offices or bedrooms.

The noise you hear can change depending on the machine’s compressor. Some newer models have quieter technology. They make less noise, which is helpful if you want to snack late at night or take breaks without disturbing others. Where you put your ice maker also matters. Putting it on a stable, insulated surface can help make it quieter.

Most modern ice makers are built to stay quiet even when they are busy making ice. This means you can get fresh, crunchy ice without loud noises bothering you.

Capacity And Storage

Capacity and storage are important parts of choosing a nugget ice maker. They tell you how much ice you can make and keep. Most home ice makers can produce about 34 to 40 pounds of ice in one day. This amount is enough for parties or daily use. The ice basket usually holds around 1.8 to 2 pounds of ice. So, keep an eye on it to see how fast it fills up, especially when you have lots of guests. A machine with higher production can make ice faster, so you don’t have to wait long. Some models turn off automatically when the basket is full, which prevents spills. The water tank size also matters. A bigger tank means you won’t have to fill it up as often. All these parts work together to give you a steady supply of soft nugget ice.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is an important thing to think about when choosing a nugget ice maker. If you want to save on electricity bills or be more eco-friendly, look for models that use less power. Most ice makers use between 3 and 136 watts. Picking one with lower power use can help cut your monthly energy costs. Some ice makers have automatic self-cleaning. This feature saves time and keeps the machine running well. It also stops energy waste caused by parts that don’t work properly.

Look for safety certifications like ETL. They mean the ice maker meets energy standards and is safe to use. Choose models that make ice quickly. Making ice faster means the machine runs less and uses less energy. Good insulation and eco-friendly refrigerants, like R600a, also help lower power use. They keep the ice maker working efficiently and save energy in the long run.

Maintenance Features

Keeping your nugget ice maker in good shape doesn’t have to be hard. Picking a model with simple features makes it easier to use and clean. Look for machines that have a self-cleaning button. When you press it, the machine cleans itself in about 15 minutes. This helps keep the ice fresh and prevents mineral buildup. Some machines show a light or alert when it’s time to clean or refill water. That way, you won’t forget. Also, models with removable covers or parts make cleaning much faster and less messy. Choosing a stainless steel ice maker makes cleaning easier because it resists fingerprints and dirt. These features help your ice maker work well and keep your ice tasting great.

Price And Value

When choosing a nugget ice maker, price is just one thing to think about. You want to get good value for your money. Some ice makers cost around $300. Others cost over $500. But don’t pick just the cheapest or the most expensive. Look at what the machine can do.

A good ice maker should make ice quickly. It should be easy to clean and last a long time. Cheaper models might not last as long or work as well. Higher-priced models often come with extra things like a basket, a scoop, or a self-cleaning feature. These extras make using the machine easier over time.

It’s also smart to choose an energy-efficient machine. It will save you money on electricity. Make sure the product has a good warranty and good customer help. If something breaks, helpful support can save you money on repairs.

In the end, don’t just go for the cheapest or the most expensive. Find a machine that is strong, easy to use, and long-lasting. That way, you get the best value for your money.

FAQs

How Energy-Efficient Are These Nugget Ice Makers?

These nugget ice makers are generally quite energy-efficient, utilizing advanced technology to minimize power consumption. You’ll notice lower electricity bills because they efficiently produce soft ice without wasting energy, making them a smart choice for eco-conscious users.

What Is the Typical Lifespan of a Nugget Ice Maker?

You can expect your nugget ice maker to last around 3 to 5 years with proper maintenance. Regular cleaning and ensuring good ventilation will help extend its lifespan, keeping it working efficiently for years to come.

Are Replacement Parts Widely Available for These Models?

Yes, replacement parts for nugget ice makers are generally available, especially for popular brands. You can find them through authorized service centers, online retailers, or directly from the manufacturer, making maintenance easier and prolonging your appliance’s lifespan.

Can These Ice Makers Operate Quietly in a Household Setting?

Yes, many of these ice makers operate quietly in a household setting. They often feature sound-dampening technology, so you can enjoy soft ice without disruptive noise, making them perfect for home use and entertaining guests comfortably.

Do These Models Meet Commercial or Residential Use Standards?

These models typically meet residential standards, making them perfect for home use. However, some commercial-grade models might require special licensing or installation, so always check the manufacturer’s specifications to guarantee they suit your specific needs.

Last update on 2026-02-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.   Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!