10 Best Ice Makers 2025 in the United States

The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL is a countertop nugget ice maker designed to deliver chewable, soft nugget ice that’s great for drinks and easy to enjoy. It produces up to 38 pounds of ice in 24 hours, which is quite impressive for a home or small office setup, and the 3-pound storage bin means you have a ready supply on hand. Its built-in 1-gallon water tank eliminates the need to connect to a water line, making it portable and simple to place almost anywhere, though you will need to refill the tank periodically. The unit is moderately sized, about 17.5 inches deep and 13.4 inches wide, so it fits well on most countertops without taking up too much space.

Energy consumption is average for this type of appliance with a 300-watt power rating. It includes smart features like WiFi connectivity, allowing you to monitor ice levels and set schedules via an app, plus voice control compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant, which adds convenience. Similar models typically produce a low hum that is generally unobtrusive.

Maintenance is user-friendly, featuring an advanced cleaning system that keeps the ice fresh and the machine running smoothly, though the cleaning kit and water filter are sold separately. The ice it makes is soft nugget ice, favored for its texture and ability to chill drinks quickly without watering them down. A potential downside is the relatively small ice storage capacity, which might require more frequent scooping if you need larger amounts of ice at once, and the initial purchase cost along with optional maintenance accessories could increase the total expense. This GE Profile model is a stylish, smart, and efficient nugget ice maker that’s easy to use and maintain.

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.

This Antarctic Star countertop ice maker is a solid choice for anyone needing quick and convenient ice production at home or on the go. It can produce up to 26 pounds of ice per day, which is quite ample for small parties, family gatherings, or camping trips. One notable advantage is its fast ice-making cycle—ice cubes are ready in about 6 minutes, helping you keep drinks chilled without long waits. The machine makes 8 ice cubes per cycle with two size options, giving some flexibility. Its compact size (roughly 10 x 9 x 11 inches) and light weight (12.4 pounds) make it highly portable and suitable for countertop use, travel, or outdoor events.

The low noise level (<40dB) is a plus, allowing use without disturbing conversations or work. Another user-friendly feature is the one-touch self-cleaning function, which helps maintain fresh-tasting ice and reduces maintenance hassle. The ice maker uses a water reservoir, so you need to fill it manually rather than hooking it up to a water line. This is typical for portable models but means you must monitor water levels for uninterrupted ice production. The included basket and scoop help manage ice once made. Energy efficiency is improved by about 30% thanks to its optimized motor, which is a nice environmental and cost-saving benefit.

The relatively small size limits total ice storage, so it’s not ideal for very large groups or commercial use where continuous bulk ice is needed. Additionally, because it relies on a reservoir, you’ll need to refill water periodically during heavy use. This ice maker is best suited for personal or small group use, offering fast, quiet, and energy-conscious ice making in a portable design that fits well in kitchens, RVs, or outdoor setups.