Do you dream of that perfect, chewable, nugget ice, the kind that crunches just right in your favorite drink? Many of us chase that icy bliss at home, but finding the best nugget ice maker can feel like a quest. The internet is full of options, and sifting through reviews can be overwhelming. Which machine actually delivers that coveted chewable ice? Which ones break down quickly?
That’s where the wisdom of the crowd comes in. Reddit users are often brutally honest about their favorite (and least favorite) appliances. We’ve plunged into the depths of Reddit threads dedicated to these countertop ice wonders. We looked for the models that keep popping up in positive discussions and the ones people warn others to avoid.
This guide cuts through the noise. You will learn which nugget ice makers Reddit users swear by, understand the common pros and cons, and discover the secrets to getting great ice without buyer’s remorse. Ready to stop wishing for better ice and start making it? Let’s dive into the best nugget ice makers, according to the experts on Reddit.
Top Nugget Ice Maker Reddit Recommendations
- Sleek Design - Never run out of ice again with the Frigidaire Stainless Steel Ice Maker that produces up to 26 lbs. of ice per day. Elevate your space with its sleek stainless steel countertop design that blends seamlessly with any kitchen, bar, office, or dorm.
- Fast Ice Production - This compact ice maker makes hosting easy! It churns out 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes every 7 minutes, with two size options to suit any beverage or occasion.
- Intuitive Control - The ice maker features a transparent window so you can easily monitor ice levels and see when ice is being made. Take full control with the digital LED control panel, allowing easy adjustment of settings and ice size selection for ultimate convenience.
- Large Water Capacity - With a 2.1 qt. water tank capacity, you can enjoy uninterrupted ice making without having to constantly refill. Say goodbye to tedious cleaning routines with the drain plug feature that provides easy emptying and cleaning for hassle-free maintenance.
- Bonus Accessory - Enhance your ice making experience with the included ice scoop for easy retrieval of ice cubes. The interior basket holds up to 1.5 lbs. of ice at a time, so you’ll always have ice on hand.
- 6 MINS ICE-MAKING & NUGGET ICE: Quench your thirst fast with efficient EUHOMY nugget ice maker! You can enjoy fresh sonic ice and cold drinks in 6 to 8 mins. Featuring a 1.2Qt water tank, it easily makes up to 34 lbs of ice daily and has a 1.8 lbs removeable basket. The unique, crunchy soft pellet ice won't hurt your hands or mouth and cools drinks quickly while retaining their taste, providing a joyfully chewable experience. It's so perfect for icing coffee, smoothies and munching on ice as a snack
- COMPACT & PORTABLE DESIGN: Our nugget ice maker has a sturdy handle, a compact size (LWH) of 9.45x11.61x12.99 inch and pretty light weight. Those features make our pebble ice maker easy to carry and so excellent for any occasions such as Home/Office/Camping/Party/Bar/RV. Another user-friendly design is the ice scoop holder on the back that allows easy storage when not in use, the large viewing window allows direct monitoring of the ice-making process. Buy now and enjoy refreshing drinks all summer long
- SMART & AUTO-CLEANING: Unlike other ice makers that run in cycles, aging the internals. EUHOMY nugget ice maker features "ICE FULL" indicator to stop ice-making and remind you to take out ice. The "ADD WATER" will alert you to add water. Pellet ice maker will run a 15 mins self-cleaning by a simple press the "Ice/Clean" for 3s after adding water. The top cover is also easily lifted for more thorough cleaning. Our double cleaning design provides a safe and clean ice-making experience
- QUIETER & ENERGY-SAVING: Our countertop nugget ice maker excellent at refrigeration while running at less than 50 dB noise, ensuring a comfortable and quiet environment for working or sleeping. With its low energy consumption of about 3 kWh/Daily, you'll save more on electricity bills while enjoying refreshing drinks. And by choosing our ice maker, you'll wow your guests before they try delicious sonic ice
- ETL CERTIFICATION & SERVICE PROMISE: Our nugget ice maker is ETL certified to promise safety. You can use pebble ice maker with confidence. Our mission is to provide premium ice makers at reasonable prices. We offer 1-year after-sales service from the original purchase date & technical support. Suppose you have any questions about using our pellet ice maker, please reach out to us anytime! Our customer teams are always ready to help you with anything you need
- 6 MINS ICE-MAKING & NUGGET ICE: Quench your thirst fast with efficient EUHOMY nugget ice maker! You can enjoy fresh sonic ice and cold drinks in 6 to 8 mins. Featuring a 1.2Qt water tank, it easily makes up to 35 lbs of ice daily and has a 1.8 lbs removeable basket. The unique, crunchy soft pellet ice won't hurt your hands or mouth and cools drinks quickly while retaining their taste, providing a joyfully chewable experience. It's so perfect for icing coffee, smoothies and munching on ice as a snack
- COMPACT & PORTABLE DESIGN: Our nugget ice maker has a sturdy handle, a compact size (LWH) of 9.45x11.61x12.99 inch and pretty light weight. Those features make our pebble ice maker easy to carry and so excellent for any occasions such as Home/Office/Camping/Party/Bar/RV. Another user-friendly design is the ice scoop holder on the back that allows easy storage when not in use, the large viewing window allows direct monitoring of the ice-making process. Buy now and enjoy refreshing drinks all summer long
- SMART & AUTO-CLEANING: Unlike other ice makers that run in cycles, aging the internals. EUHOMY nugget ice maker features "ICE FULL" indicator to stop ice-making and remind you to take out ice. The "ADD WATER" will alert you to add water. Pellet ice maker will run a 15 mins self-cleaning by a simple press the "Ice/Clean" for 3s after adding water. The top cover is also easily lifted for more thorough cleaning. Our double cleaning design provides a safe and clean ice-making experience
- QUIETER & ENERGY-SAVING: Our countertop nugget ice maker excellent at refrigeration while running at less than 50 dB noise, ensuring a comfortable and quiet environment for working or sleeping. With its low energy consumption of about 3 kWh/Daily, you'll save more on electricity bills while enjoying refreshing drinks. And by choosing our ice maker, you'll wow your guests before they try delicious sonic ice
- ETL CERTIFICATION & SERVICE PROMISE: Our nugget ice maker is ETL certified to promise safety. You can use pebble ice maker with confidence. Our mission is to provide premium ice makers at reasonable prices. We offer 1-year after-sales service from the original purchase date & technical support. Suppose you have any questions about using our pellet ice maker, please reach out to us anytime! Our customer teams are always ready to help you with anything you need
- 6 MINS ICE-MAKING & NUGGET ICE: Quench your thirst fast with efficient EUHOMY nugget ice maker! You can enjoy fresh sonic ice and cold drinks in 6-8 mins. Featuring a 1.2Qt water tank, it easily makes up to 34 lbs of ice daily and has a 1.8 lbs removeable basket. The unique, crunchy soft pellet ice won't hurt your hands or mouth and cools drinks quickly while retaining their taste, providing a joyfully chewable experience. It's so perfect for icing coffee, smoothies and munching on ice as a snack
- COMPACT & PORTABLE DESIGN: Our nugget ice maker has a sturdy handle, a compact size (LWH) of 9.45x11.61x12.99 inch and pretty light weight. Those features make our pebble ice maker easy to carry and so perfect for any occasions such as Home/Office/Camping/Party/Bar/RV. Another user-friendly design is the ice scoop holder on the back that allows easy storage when not in use, the large viewing window allows direct monitoring of the ice-making process. Buy now and enjoy refreshing drinks all summer long
- SMART & AUTO-CLEANING: Unlike other ice makers that run in cycles, aging the internals. EUHOMY nugget ice maker features "ICE FULL" indicator to stop ice-making and remind you to take out ice. The "ADD WATER" will alert you to add water. Pellet ice maker will run a 15 mins self-cleaning by a simple press the "Ice/Clean" for 3s after adding water. The top cover is also easily lifted for more thorough cleaning. Our double cleaning design provides a safe and clean ice-making experience
- QUIETER & ENERGY-SAVING & ECO-FRIENDLY: Our countertop nugget ice maker excellent at refrigeration while running at less than 50 dB noise, ensuring a comfortable and quiet environment for working or sleeping. With its low energy consumption of about 1 kWh/8H, you'll save more on electricity bills while enjoying refreshing drinks. And by choosing our eco-friendly ice maker, you'll make a positive impact on the environment. Wow your guests before they try delicious sonic ice
- ETL CERTIFICATION & SERVICE PROMISE: Our nugget ice maker is ETL certified to ensure top-quality and safety. You can use pebble ice maker with confidence. Our mission is to provide premium ice makers at reasonable prices. We offer 1-year after-sales service from the original purchase date & technical support. Suppose you have any questions about using our pellet ice maker, please reach out to us anytime! Our customer teams are always ready to help you with anything you need
- LIGHTNING FAST ICE MAKER - The Silonn Nugget Ice Maker can produce up to 33 pounds of ice per day. This countertop ice maker makes ice so fast that the first round takes only 6 minutes, much faster than the average 20 minutes.
- CHEWABLE NUGGET ICE - Our nugget ice maker produces chewable nugget ice, perfect for smoothies, cocktails, sodas, and more. Unlike regular ice cubes, the satisfying crunch and chewy texture of nugget ice comes from the compacted and layered ice flakes, resulting in a better mouthfeel.
- SELF-CLEANING FUNCTION - The countertop ice maker has a removable cover that makes it easy to reach every nook and cranny for deep cleaning. The ice maker also features an automatic self-cleaning cycle that can be activated by pressing and holding the ICE/CLEAN button for 5 seconds.
- QUIET ICE-MAKING - The nugget ice maker is designed with a quiet cooling process, making it one of the quietest nugget ice makers on the market. Enjoy silent, smooth operation that doesn’t disturb your home or office space. An indicator light illuminates when water is low or the ice basket is full.
- COMPACT AND PORTABLE - The ice maker measures 11.3″ W x 8.66″ D x 12.68″ H, compact enough to fit right on your countertop and perfect for use at home, in the office, or at parties. Take this nugget ice maker wherever you go and enjoy frozen treats with friends and family.
- Ready in Just 5 Minutes: Get ice whenever you need it. This SenCre countertop ice maker produces your first batch of chewable nugget ice in only 5-8 minutes, delivering up to 44 lbs of ice per day. Whether it's for daily hydration or entertaining guests, you'll always have a steady supply of fresh, soft ice on hand.
- Compact & Portable Design: Featuring a compact size of 14.97" x 6.86" x 13", SenCre ice maker fits easily on countertops, in offices, or at home bars. The innovative drawer-style ice basket allows you to retrieve ice smoothly without lifting or tilting—making daily use more convenient. It comes with a built-in ice scoop for quick access, blending function and style in any setting.
- Added Convenience: Plan your ice making easily with the 8-hour programmable timer. Store plenty of fresh ice in the spacious 2-lb capacity ice basket. A transparent viewing window lets you see your ice supply at a glance, combining convenience and smart design for everyday use.
- One-Touch Self-Cleaning: Keep your ice pure and your machine fresh with the convenient self-cleaning function. With just one press of a button, the interior is cleaned automatically in just 10 minutes—saving you time and effort while ensuring consistently clean and great-tasting ice.
- Soft & Chewable Nugget Ice: Indulge in the uniquely enjoyable texture of soft, chewable nugget ice. Nugget ice is gentle on your teeth, allowing you to savor its coolness without diluting your drinks. It enhances beverages like sodas, iced coffee, cocktails, and smoothies—making every sip more fun and flavorful. Ideal for all ages, it turns ordinary drinks into a refreshing, multi-sensory treat.
- FAST ICE PRODUCTION: Produces up to 35 lbs of chewable pebble ice daily, delivering fresh ice quickly for parties and family gatherings. With a 1.5L water tank and a removable ice basket that holds up to 2.6 lbs of ice, this countertop soft ice machine reduces refills
- ONE-TOUCH DEEP CLEANING WITH HIGH-PRESSURE PUMP: Press "Clean" to start a 7-minute automatic cleaning cycle. The high-flow pump thoroughly flushes the ice path, delivering fresher, safer chewable nugget ice. Includes 8 packs of ice maker cleaner & descaler for easy, worry-free maintenance
- NEXT-LEVEL CHEWABLE NUGGET ICE: This portable nugget ice machine produces soft, crunchy pebble ice that's easy to chew and keeps drinks chilled. Its airy texture enhances flavor and mouthfeel - perfect for cocktails, iced coffee, and everyday beverages
- COMPACT & QUIET COUNTERTOP DESIGN: With a portable 12.09W × 8.98D × 12.36H inches footprint, this nugget ice machine fits apartments, RVs, and small kitchens. Operating at a quiet 50 dB, it keeps your drinks chilled without crowding your precious space
- MODERN STAINLESS-STEEL DESIGN WITH INTUITIVE LED DISPLAY: The brushed stainless-steel body gives this pellet pebble ice maker a sleek, modern look, combined with an intuitive LED panel to easily monitor "Add Water," "Ice Making," and "Ice Full"
- 【Rapid Ice Production】New Nugget ice maker machine is remarkably efficient! With its 1.1L water tank, it produces 35 pounds of ice within 24 hours. Our countertop ice maker machine churns out the first batch in just 7 minutes,ensuring continuous and rapid ice-making. No more trips to the store for ice!
- 【Effortless Care, Uninterrupted Freshness】Bid farewell to laborious cleaning tasks. A mere 5-second press of the ON/OFF button activates the pebble ice maker machine's self-cleaning feature. In just 15 minutes, a brand-new ice maker emerges, ready to serve you with fresh ice.
- 【Chewable Nugget Ice】Crafted by crushed ice maker, chewable nugget ice stands apart. Its delightful crunchiness arises from compacted, layered ice flakes, boasting a slow melt and superior texture. Ideal for slushies, cocktails, sodas, and more, it preserves the authentic flavors like no other ice.
- 【Quiet and User-Friendly】Portable ice maker rigorously tested in a noise-controlled environment, producing a mere 43 DB to ensure a tranquil atmosphere for any occasion.Plus, Sonic ice maker's intuitive LED indicators keep you informed about water levels, ice production, and self-cleaning status, making ice preparation a breeze.
- 【Compact Countertop Ice Maker】 It's more than a ice machine; it's a modern work of art. With dimensions of 12.8" x 11.22" x 8.86", Small ice maker's stylish design adds an elegant touch to any space. The transparent casing lets you check ice storage at a glance, and you can savor ice with the included scoop.
The Ultimate Reddit Guide to Buying Your Nugget Ice Maker
You’ve seen the posts. You’ve read the rave reviews. You’re ready to join the chewy, crunchy ice club! Nugget ice, often called “Sonic ice” or “chewable ice,” is the best. But buying a nugget ice maker can be tricky. This guide will help you pick the perfect machine, based on what Reddit users actually care about.
Key Features to Look For
When scrolling through Reddit threads, certain features pop up again and again. These make or break your nugget ice experience.
1. Ice Production Rate (Lbs/Day)
How much ice does it make? Small countertop models usually make 25 to 35 pounds per day. If you host big parties, look for models that hit 40 pounds or more. Remember, this is the maximum in 24 hours, not how fast you get your first batch.
2. Ice Basket Size
The bigger the basket, the less often you have to empty it. A 3-pound basket fills up fast. Larger units might hold 5 to 10 pounds. Think about how much ice your family uses daily.
3. Self-Cleaning Function
This is a huge time-saver! Many modern machines have a button you press, and the machine cleans itself with water. This keeps your ice tasting fresh and prevents mold buildup.
4. Water Source Options
- Reservoir Models: You pour water into a tank inside the machine. These are portable but require frequent refills.
- Plumbed-In Models: These connect directly to your water line (like a refrigerator). They make ice constantly but need professional installation or some DIY skill. Reddit users love the convenience of plumbing but warn about potential leaks if installed poorly.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials inside the machine affect how long it lasts and how clean your ice tastes.
Stainless Steel Components
Look for stainless steel parts in the ice-making chamber. Stainless steel resists rust better than plastic. It helps keep the ice tasting pure, not like plastic.
BPA-Free Plastics
The ice chute and storage basket should be made from BPA-free plastic. This ensures no harmful chemicals leach into your favorite chewable treat.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What separates a great machine from a frustrating one?
Noise Level (dB)
Nugget ice makers use compressors, which make noise—like a small refrigerator running. If the machine sits in your main living area, look for models advertised as “quiet” or under 50 decibels (dB). Loud machines are a common complaint on forums.
Ice Quality (Chew Factor)
The best nugget ice is soft and chewable. Machines that produce ice that is too hard or icy might actually be making “crushed ice,” not true nugget ice. Read reviews specifically mentioning the texture.
Insulation
Good insulation keeps the ice frozen longer inside the basket, especially if you use a reservoir model. Poor insulation means melted ice drains back into the reservoir, leading to less usable ice.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use your machine? This changes what you should buy.
Countertop Portability
If you only need ice for movie nights or small gatherings, a compact countertop model is perfect. You can store it away when you are not using it. These are easy to set up—just plug it in and add water.
Dedicated Home Bar Setup
If you want ice ready 24/7 for cocktails or daily use, consider a larger, under-counter unit that can be plumbed in. These are more expensive upfront but offer endless, effortless ice.
Maintenance Hassle
If you hate cleaning things, the self-cleaning feature is mandatory. If you buy a non-cleaning model, you must regularly wipe down the interior to prevent slime. Nobody wants slimy ice!
Nugget Ice Maker Reddit FAQ
Q: How cold does the ice come out?
A: Nugget ice is usually made just above freezing, around 33-38°F. It is soft, not rock-hard like freezer ice. It melts faster, so you need a well-insulated bin.
Q: Do I need to buy special water?
A: Most Reddit users suggest using filtered water. Hard tap water causes mineral buildup (scale) inside the machine. Scale slows down production and can break the machine. Filtered water keeps it running smoothly.
Q: How long does it take to make the first batch?
A: Most machines take 15 to 30 minutes to produce the first small batch of ice. After that, they usually keep up with demand if the water temperature is cool.
Q: Can I leave the ice in the basket overnight?
A: Yes, but it will melt! Nugget ice makers do not have freezers. The melted water drains back into the reservoir to be made into new ice. If you don’t want the water to recycle, you need to empty the drain plug or scoop the ice out.
Q: Are the expensive brands really better?
A: Often, yes. Higher-priced models usually have better insulation, quieter compressors, and stronger internal components (like stainless steel). Cheap models often break down faster or make harder, less enjoyable ice.
Q: What is the difference between nugget ice and Sonic ice?
A: There is almost no difference! “Nugget ice” is the generic term for the soft, chewable ice. “Sonic ice” is the brand name used by the fast-food chain Sonic Drive-In, which popularized this type of ice.
Q: How often do I need to clean it?
A: If you use the self-cleaning function, run it once a month. If you do not have self-cleaning, you must manually wipe down the inside every two weeks to prevent slime and mold growth.
Q: Can I use ice from this maker in a cooler?
A: Because nugget ice melts quickly, it is not the best for keeping things cold for a long time in a cooler. It works great for immediate drinks but melts much faster than standard cubes.
Q: What do I do if the ice is hollow?
A: Hollow ice often means the machine is struggling to freeze the water completely before it gets pushed out. This usually happens if the ambient room temperature is too hot or the water temperature is too warm.
Q: Do I need to drain the reservoir if I don’t use it for a week?
A: Absolutely. If you leave water sitting for several days, it can grow bacteria or mold. Always empty the water reservoir, wipe it dry, and leave the drain plug open when you plan not to use the machine for more than a couple of days.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!