Do you dream of that perfect, chewable ice, the kind that makes every drink an instant treat? That soft, crunchy nugget ice is the secret weapon of great beverages, but getting it at home can feel like a quest. Many people want that amazing ice, but the market is flooded with choices. It’s tough to know which small nugget ice maker actually delivers the good stuff without taking up your entire counter.
You want ice that crushes easily, not those hard, slow-melting cubes. Choosing the right machine means looking at size, speed, and, most importantly, the quality of the ice it produces. We understand the frustration of buying a machine only to find out it makes disappointing ice. This guide cuts through the noise.
We will break down exactly what makes a great small nugget ice maker. You will learn the key features to look for, compare top models, and finally find the machine that brings that satisfying crunch to your kitchen. Get ready to upgrade your hydration game!
Top Small Nugget Ice Maker Recommendations
- 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
- 【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.
- Fast Nugget Ice in 6 Minutes: This DUMOS nugget ice maker that produces soft, chewable ice in just 6 minutes! With the ability to make up to 24 pounds of ice per day, you'll always have a steady supply for parties, smoothies, or everyday hydration
- Effortless 15-Minute Self-Cleaning Function:Keep your ice pure and your machine fresh with Dumos’ innovative self-cleaning feature. In just 15 minutes, the nugget ice maker countertop cleans itself—no hassle, no scrubbing. Just press a button for a hygienic ice-making experience
- 1.55L Water Tank:The portable ice maker from Dumos comes with a 1.55L refillable water tank, making it easy to use at home, in your office, or during trips. No plumbing needed—just add water and let the machine do the rest
- Smart Alerts for Ice Full & Low Water:Never worry about overflows or dry runs! This crushed ice maker includes indicator lights that notify you when the ice bin is full or when the water level is low. Enjoy hands-free convenience and perfect ice whenever you need it
- Energy-Efficient Design for Daily Use: Designed with cost-conscious users in mind, Dumos nugget ice maker uses only 2.8 kWh per day. Save on energy while enjoying endless nugget ice—it’s the smart addition to any modern kitchen or entertainment space
- 26 POUNDS OF ICE DAILY: Ditch clunky ice trays and use Iceman nugget ice makers for any type of cold drink! Put it directly on the countertop or make this ice machine the cornerstone of your bar cart or home bar.
- SONIC ICE MAKER: Pebble ice machines make small nuggets of ice that freeze quickly and cool drinks off in seconds. Plus, they’re fun to chew whenever you get to the bottom of the glass.
- ICE EVERY 6 MINUTES: This small ice maker packs a big punch, with a batch of ice being frozen every 6-8 minutes and a spacious 1.5-liter water reservoir. No need to worry about refills or running to the gas station for a bag!
- EASY TO USE: The control panel of this mini ice maker features LED lights for when the machine is full of ice or low on water. Plus, you can program this self cleaning ice machine to rinse out its internal parts!
- WINDOWED LID: Keep an eye on each batch with this ice cube maker’s easy-view window. You can spot each frozen pellet as this nugget ice machine makes more than enough to chill a whole round of drinks!
- 【Portable Ice Maker】 The countertop ice maker measures 8.8 x 11.6 x 12.5 inches, 15.4 pounds. and its compact size doesn't take up much space. Our small ice maker comes with a sturdy handle. Easy to carry, this mini ice machine maker countertop can be placed in your kitchen, patio, office or RV.Plus, these bullet ice won't stick together easily or hurt your hands or mouth, making them perfect for cold drinks, iced coffee or chewy snacks!
- 【6 Mins Ice-Making】 9 bullet ice cubes can be made in just 6 minutes. Equipped with a 1.5-liter tank and powerful compressor, the ice makers countertop can easily produce up to 26.5 pounds of ice per day. This quick ice making feature ensures that you are always ready for a party or spontaneous celebration.In refrigeration, but also at less than 40db normal noise, ensuring a comfortable and quiet environment to enjoy ice-making.
- 【Two Sizes of Ice Cubes】 You can make two different sizes of ice cubes with this counter top ice machine maker. Small ice cubes are great for keeping seafood or beer fresh and cool for a long time. Large cubes are better for making iced coffee or cold drinks for a quick cooling effect. Smooth bullet ice that won't hurt your hands or mouth during use.
- 【Smart Operation & Self-Cleaning】The ice maker has an advanced infrared sensor. The "ICE FULL" indicator flashes to remind you to take out ice to prevent overflowing when the basket is full. And it'll remind you to add water by flashing "ADD WATER". Additionally, the table top ice maker machine has a one-touch auto-cleaning function. Press the “ON/OFF” for 5s after adding water to run automatic mode for 15mins. Not only are your hands-free but also you get a clean ice maker.
- 【Ice Full Light】****When ice is full, the ice full light will be red all the time. You need to press on/off button to restart the machine****
- Rapid 6-Minute Cycles:NEWBULIG nugget ice maker produces soft, chewable ice in just six minutes, delivering up to 24 pounds of ice per day to keep your drinks perfectly chilled around the clock. This portable ice maker is ideal for parties, home use, or quick refreshment anytime you need it.
- Hassle-Free Maintenance with 15-Minute Self-Cleaning: Enjoy fresh, clean ice every time with the built-in self-cleaning function. In just 15 minutes, this nugget ice maker countertop thoroughly cleans itself—no scrubbing or disassembly required. NEWBULIG makes maintenance effortless so you can focus on enjoying your favorite beverages.
- 1.55L Removable Water Tank: Designed for convenience, this crushed ice maker features a 1.55L removable water tank that’s easy to fill and clean. The portable design allows you to place it anywhere—on your kitchen counter, in your office, or at your next backyard gathering—without needing a water line connection.
- Smart Indicator Lights for Ice Full and Low Water Alerts: Never guess when to stop or refill! This intelligent NEWBULIG nugget ice maker includes clear indicator lights that notify you when the ice bin is full or when the water level is low. Enjoy hands-free operation and perfect ice whenever you need it.
- Energy-Saving Design with 2.8 kWh Daily Consumption:Keep costs low without compromising performance. This efficient portable ice maker uses only 2.8 kWh per day, making it an economical choice for daily use. Enjoy endless nugget ice while saving energy and reducing your environmental footprint.
- 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.
- High-Output Ice Production: This pebble ice maker delivers fresh nugget ice in just 10 minutes with a daily output of up to 33 lbs. With enough ice to make 150 drinks a day, this nugget ice maker countertop is your go-to solution for any party or gathering.
- Chewable Nugget Ice: Enjoy the delightful texture of small nugget ice made by this ice machine. Not only is it easy to chew, but it can also quickly chill beverages. The nugget ice maker make each sip more refreshing with chewable nugget ice, perfect for juice, coffee, or blended treats.
- Easy Self-Cleaning: The countertop ice maker features a convenient self-cleaning function to ensure you always have fresh-tasting ice without too much hassle. Simply add water or a vinegar-water solution and run the self-cleaning cycle, then drain nugget ice maker over a sink.
- Simple One-Button Control: Using this ice maker is a breeze thanks to a single multi-purpose button with ring indicator light. Best of all, the ice machine operates quietly with a low noise level, allowing you to make ice without disturbing your living space.
- Compact and Stylish: The nugget ice maker is designed with compact dimensions of 8.5″ x 11.3″ x 12.6″ to fit neatly on your countertop without taking up too much space. With a 1.1L water tank and 1L ice basket capacity, the ice maker is the perfect size for convenient batches of ice.
Your Guide to Buying the Best Small Nugget Ice Maker
Love that soft, chewable ice from your favorite coffee shop? You need a small nugget ice maker! These countertop gadgets make “chewable” ice, often called pellet ice. They are perfect for small kitchens or offices. This guide helps you pick the right one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, check these important parts. They decide how well your machine works.
1. Ice Production Rate
How much ice does it make? Small machines usually make between 10 to 30 pounds of ice per day. Think about how much ice your family uses. If you host parties, get a machine with a higher rate.
2. Ice Basket Size
The basket holds the finished ice. A bigger basket means you refill the water less often. Small units usually hold 1.5 to 3 pounds of ice.
3. Self-Cleaning Function
This feature is a lifesaver. A self-cleaning cycle removes buildup and keeps your ice tasting fresh. Always choose a model with this option.
4. Noise Level
Ice makers make noise when they work. Look for models rated under 45 decibels (dB). Quieter machines are better if you keep the maker in your living space.
5. Size and Portability
Small nugget ice makers are compact. Measure your counter space first. Some units have handles, making them easy to move for cleaning or storage.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials used affect how long your machine lasts and how safe your ice is.
- Exterior Casing: Most modern makers use durable ABS plastic. Stainless steel accents look nicer but cost more.
- Ice Contact Parts: The parts that touch the ice must be food-grade plastic or stainless steel. Avoid cheap plastics that might leach smells or flavors.
- Water Reservoir: A good reservoir should be easy to access for cleaning. BPA-free plastic is the standard for health safety.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all nugget makers are created equal. Some details really matter.
What Improves Quality:
- Good Insulation: Better insulation keeps the ice frozen longer inside the basket, even when the machine isn’t running.
- Fast Ice Making: Quick cycle times mean you get ice faster when you need it.
- Automatic Shut-Off: This stops the machine when the basket is full, saving energy and preventing overflow.
What Reduces Quality:
- No Insulation: If the basket isn’t insulated, the ice melts quickly back into the water reservoir.
- Weak Draining: If the drain plug is hard to reach, melted water sits in the machine, which encourages mold growth.
- Cheap Water Pump: A weak pump can slow down production or break down sooner.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you plan to use your new ice maker.
Home Use
For daily soda, water, or cocktails, a medium-sized model works well. Families love the convenience. You will need to empty the basket into your freezer regularly if you want a large supply.
Office or Dorm Use
In a small office or dorm room, noise is a big concern. Look for quiet models. Production needs are usually lower here, so a smaller, faster machine is ideal.
Portability
If you plan to take it camping or to an RV, check if it needs a constant water hookup. Most small nugget makers use a manual fill reservoir, which is great for travel.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Small Nugget Ice Makers
Q: What exactly is nugget ice?
A: Nugget ice is soft, chewable ice formed from compressed ice flakes. It is often called “chewable ice.”
Q: Do I need a water line hookup for these small makers?
A: No. Most small countertop models have a removable water reservoir you fill by hand.
Q: How long does it take to make the first batch of ice?
A: Most machines start making ice within 10 to 20 minutes, but a full basket usually takes about an hour.
Q: Can I store the nugget ice in my regular freezer?
A: Yes, but you must transfer the ice from the machine’s basket to an airtight bag or container first.
Q: Do nugget ice makers recycle melted ice?
A: Yes. Melted ice drains back into the reservoir and is refrozen by the machine. This is why you should clean it often.
Q: Are these machines energy efficient?
A: They use about as much power as a small coffee maker when actively making ice. They use less power when just keeping the ice cold.
Q: How often should I clean my nugget ice maker?
A: If you use the self-cleaning feature, run it weekly. Deep clean the entire unit every three months.
Q: Will the ice melt if the power goes out?
A: Yes. Since these units often lack heavy insulation, the ice will melt relatively quickly, usually within a few hours.
Q: Is it hard to set up a small nugget ice maker?
A: Setup is very easy. You usually just plug it in, add water, and press start. No tools are needed.
Q: Are these ice makers loud?
A: Newer models are much quieter, but they will make some noise when the ice drops or the water pump runs. Look for models rated under 45 dB for quiet operation.
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!