10 Best Ice Makers 2026 in the United States

The Kismile Nugget Ice Maker is a solid choice for anyone wanting quick and convenient ice at home. It produces up to 35 pounds of chewable nugget ice daily, with the first batch ready in just 7 minutes—great for gatherings or daily use. Its 2.3-liter water tank and transparent ice storage let you keep an eye on ice levels easily. The nugget ice, known for its soft, crunchy texture, is perfect for drinks like cocktails, sodas, or slushies and melts slower than regular ice cubes, helping preserve flavors.

This model is compact and stylish, fitting comfortably on most countertops without taking up too much space, and weighs about 22 pounds, making it portable. It’s designed to be user-friendly, featuring one-click operation and LED indicators for water levels and ice status. Maintenance is simplified with a quick self-cleaning function activated by a single button press, which completes in 15 minutes. Noise levels are low at 43 dB, so it operates quietly in the background.

Although specific energy efficiency ratings are not detailed, the use of R600a refrigerant suggests a more eco-friendly design. For those seeking fast, tasty nugget ice without complex setup or loud machines, this Kismile model is a fitting option, while users needing larger ice storage or commercial-level output may find it less suitable.

The GE Profile Opal 2.0 Ultra Nugget Ice Maker is designed for those who want plenty of soft, chewable pellet ice that cools drinks quickly and offers a fun texture. It can produce up to 38 pounds of ice in 24 hours, which is plenty for home use or small gatherings, and it starts making ice fast—within 10 minutes for the first batch. The large removable water tank means fewer refills, which is convenient, and the included scale inhibiting filter helps keep the machine running smoothly over time.

One nice feature is its advanced cleaning system that makes maintenance easier, helping keep the ice tasting fresh without much scrubbing. The sleek touch display is user-friendly and adds a modern look. In terms of size, it’s fairly portable at about 38 pounds and fits comfortably on most kitchen counters, though it’s not pocket-sized. It runs on standard power and is made from durable stainless steel.

This machine is a solid choice for those focused on nugget ice with smart features like WiFi connectivity. If you need large ice storage or a more compact machine for tight spaces, you might want to compare other models. The water tank needs occasional filling, which may be a minor inconvenience compared to direct water line models. It offers a good balance of ice quality, capacity, and easy cleaning in a stylish package.

The Scotsman Commercial Nugget Ice Maker (HID312A-1) is designed for heavy-duty ice production, making up to 260 pounds of soft nugget ice per day. This high output suits businesses or busy settings where a steady, large supply of ice is essential. The nugget ice it produces is popular for its chewable texture, ideal for drinks and healthcare needs. It features a decent-sized storage bin that helps keep ice ready without frequent refills. Its air-cooled system is efficient, helping save energy compared to smaller, less powerful machines. One standout feature is the touchfree infrared dispenser, which reduces physical contact, minimizing wear and making it more hygienic and low-maintenance.

The unit also benefits from sealed, maintenance-free bearings and a removable dust cover, both aimed at reducing service costs and hassle. The dispenser's large, 11-inch opening is convenient for filling bigger cups or containers, and a USB port for software updates adds an extra layer of future-proofing. In terms of size, the machine is fairly large and heavy (over 180 pounds and about 35 inches tall), so it’s better suited for a fixed spot rather than being moved often. It runs on standard electrical power and uses R-134a refrigerant, which balances good performance with energy efficiency.

Cleaning is simplified, but because it’s a commercial-grade machine, it might require regular upkeep to maintain optimal function. This ice maker is a solid choice for commercial or high-demand environments where reliable, fast production of nugget ice is a priority, although it’s not the best fit if you need a compact or portable option.