10 Best Ice Machines 2025 in the United States

The Scotsman Commercial Nugget Ice Maker (HID312A-1) is an excellent choice for businesses needing a high-capacity ice machine. It produces up to 260 pounds of nugget ice per day, which is quite impressive and should meet the demands of most commercial settings.

The machine also has a high output, air-cooled system that can help reduce energy usage, making it more efficient than some lower-capacity models. Additionally, the touchfree infrared dispensing feature enhances hygiene by minimizing physical contact, which is particularly beneficial in busy environments.

The maintenance-free bearings and removable dust cover further reduce the need for frequent maintenance, which can save time and money in the long run.

The Manitowoc CNF-0201A-L is a solid choice if you need a reliable ice machine for busy commercial spaces or places where a steady supply of ice is essential. It produces up to 315 pounds of soft, chewable nugget ice per day, which is popular for drinks like cocktails and smoothies.

The 10-pound storage bin is a bit on the smaller side, so it works best when ice is used regularly without long waiting times. It’s designed to sit on a countertop, but keep in mind its size—about 74 inches deep and 36 inches tall—so you’ll need enough space. Energy-wise, it uses 6.69 kWh, which is moderate but not the most efficient model out there. Manitowoc machines typically run quietly enough for commercial settings. Maintenance involves standard cleaning, but the stainless steel build helps with durability and hygiene.

This ice machine is particularly suitable if your priority is high daily ice output and soft nugget ice, especially in a commercial environment with limited space. However, if you need a larger ice storage or more energy-saving features, you might want to explore other options.

The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL is a countertop nugget ice maker that produces soft, chewable ice quickly, ideal for anyone who enjoys refreshing drinks with distinctive pellet-style ice. It can produce up to 38 pounds of ice in 24 hours, suitable for small to medium household use or casual entertaining. The ice storage bin holds about 3 pounds at a time, so frequent use or transferring ice may be necessary to maintain fresh batches.

Its compact size (about 17.5 inches deep, 13.4 inches wide, and 16.5 inches tall) fits well on most kitchen counters without occupying too much space. The built-in 1-gallon water tank allows for operation without a water line hookup, with easy manual refilling thanks to its detachable design. The unit uses 300 watts, which is moderate for this type of appliance. Smart features include WiFi connectivity and voice control via Alexa or Google, enabling users to check ice status and schedule production conveniently from their phones.

Maintenance is supported by an integrated cleaning system to keep the ice fresh and the unit functioning well. The machine delivers high-quality nugget ice quickly in a stylish, smart-enabled package, though users will need to manage the limited ice storage capacity and consider maintenance needs.