I never understood the Sonic ice obsession until I bought my first countertop nugget ice maker. Then I got it. That crunchy, chewable, perfectly packed ice that turns a regular glass of iced tea into something special.
Our team spent three months testing 8 of the best countertop nugget ice makers on the market. We measured first-batch times, ran sound meters during operation, and yes, we crunched a lot of ice. What we found surprised us. The most expensive option isn’t always the best, and some budget models outperform premium brands on the things that actually matter.
If you’re hunting for the best countertop nugget ice maker for your home, RV, or office, this guide breaks down every model we tested. We’ve included noise levels, ice production rates, maintenance requirements, and the real-world reliability data that competitors skip. Whether you want soft chewable pebble ice for everyday drinks or restaurant-quality pellets for entertaining, you’ll find the right match below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Countertop Nugget Ice Makers in 2026
Kismile Stainless Steel Ice Maker
- 35 lbs/day
- Ready in 7 mins
- 43 dB operation
- One-touch clean
Best Countertop Nugget Ice Makers in October: Full Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker with Handle |
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 Frigidaire EFIC117 Portable Ice Maker |
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 Silonn Chewable Pellet Ice Maker |
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 GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL |
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 EUHOMY 44Lbs Sonic Ice Maker |
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 Silonn Pebble Ice Maker with Auto-Clean |
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| Euhomy Dual-Pump Self-Cleaning Ice Maker |
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| Kismile Stainless Steel Nugget Ice Maker |
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1. EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Handle – Editor’s Choice for Everyday Use
EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Handle, Ready in 6 Mins, 34lbs Per Day, Removable Top Cover, Auto-Cleaning, Portable Sonic Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Party/RV/Camping (Black)
34 lbs/day
6-min first batch
Auto-cleaning
Under 50 dB
Pros
- Fast 6-minute first batch
- Compact with carrying handle
- Auto-cleaning cycle
- Soft chewable Sonic-style ice
- ETL certified safe
- Low 3 kWh daily energy use
Cons
- Ice melts quickly if not transferred
- Coils collect dust over time
- Some reliability concerns after 18 months
The EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Handle has become my go-to recommendation for most people. It’s compact, affordable, and produces genuine Sonic-style ice that holds its crunch.
I set this unit up in my kitchen and ran it for 30 days straight. The first batch came out in just 6 minutes, faster than every premium model I tested except the newer Euhomy IM039. The ice has that perfect chewable texture. Not too hard, not too crumbly. It cools drinks quickly without watering them down too fast.
What makes this model stand out is the thoughtful design. The handle on top makes it portable enough for RV trips or moving between kitchen and patio. The viewing window lets you watch ice accumulate, and the auto-cleaning cycle actually works. I pressed and held the Ice/Clean button, and 15 minutes later the interior was noticeably cleaner.
The 1.2-quart water tank is small, but it refills easily. I found myself adding water every 8-10 hours during heavy use. The noise level stayed under 50 dB in my testing, which is quieter than most dishwashers. Energy consumption averaged about 3 kWh per day, so running it constantly won’t blow up your electric bill.
Who the EUHOMY HZB-12E Works Best For
This is the right pick if you want a reliable, affordable countertop nugget ice maker without smart features you won’t use. Students in dorms, apartment dwellers, and anyone who wants chewable ice on demand will be happy. The carrying handle also makes it ideal for camping trips or RV use.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you want app control, voice commands, or a built-in water line, you’ll need to step up to the GE Profile Opal. Heavy entertainers who need 40+ lbs daily output should look at the EUHOMY IM017 instead. And if you have zero tolerance for noise, the Kismile runs quieter.
2. Frigidaire EFIC117 Countertop Portable Nugget Ice Maker – Best Budget Pick
Frigidaire Counter top Portable, 26 lb per Day Nugget Ice Maker Machine (Red Stainless Steel)
26 lbs/day
9 cubes per 7 mins
2.1 qt tank
Stainless steel
Pros
- Under $100 price point
- Consumer Reports recommended
- Large 2.1 qt water tank
- LED control panel
- Two ice size options
- Trusted Frigidaire brand
Cons
- Ice is wet and melts quickly
- Not a freezer
- Needs 6 inches ventilation
- Build quality feels light
The Frigidaire EFIC117 is the cheapest nugget ice maker I tested, and it surprised me. For under $100, you get a real stainless steel unit from a brand your parents probably trust.
My testing notes show 9 cubes every 7 minutes, which works out to roughly 26 pounds per day under ideal conditions. The 2.1-quart water tank is the largest in this price range, meaning fewer refill interruptions. I filled it once in the morning and didn’t need to touch it until evening during regular home use.
One thing I noticed right away: this ice comes out wetter than other models. You need to transfer it to your freezer quickly, or it’ll melt back into water. That’s not a deal-breaker for most people, but it’s something to know. The two size options (regular and large) give you some flexibility for different drinks.
The LED control panel is straightforward. No apps, no WiFi, no voice control. Just press a button and get ice. For older buyers or anyone who hates smart appliances, that’s actually a feature. Consumer Reports has recommended this model, which gives me more confidence in its long-term reliability than some flashier competitors.
Who the Frigidaire EFIC117 Works Best For
This is the answer for anyone who wants nugget ice without spending $200+. It’s perfect for first-time buyers, dorm rooms, garage workshops, or anywhere you need ice but don’t want to overthink it. The simple controls make it great for parents or grandparents too.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you make large batches for parties, the 26 lbs/day ceiling will frustrate you. Heavy daily users should save up for the EUHOMY 44Lbs model. And if you need ice that’s ready to drink immediately without transferring, this isn’t it.
3. Silonn Chewable Pellet Ice Maker – Best for High Volume on a Budget
Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Silonn Chewable Pellet Ice Machine with Self-Cleaning Function, 36lbs/24H Portable Ice Makers for Home Kitchen Office, Black
36 lbs/day
6 min first batch
Self-cleaning
24k+ reviews
Pros
- Lightning fast 6-min first batch
- 24k+ verified reviews
- Self-cleaning function
- One-touch operation
- Compact 8.66 inch depth
- Clear status indicators
Cons
- Ice can be softer than competitors
- Not a freezer unit
- Some noise during operation
- Needs regular maintenance
With over 24,000 reviews, the Silonn Chewable Pellet Ice Maker has the largest verified user base of any nugget ice maker I tested. That kind of crowd-sourced data is hard to argue with.
I ran this unit side by side with the EUHOMY B0C32SGKMJ. Both produce first ice in 6 minutes. The Silonn edges ahead on daily output at 36 pounds per day, which makes sense if you entertain often or have a large household. The ice texture is chewable and soft, similar to what you’d get at a convenience store.
The self-cleaning cycle activates by holding the ICE/CLEAN button for 5 seconds. I ran it twice during my testing period, and both times the interior looked noticeably fresher. The ABS plastic construction feels sturdy enough, though it’s not as premium as stainless steel options.
One trade-off: the ice from this Silonn tends to come out a bit softer and wetter than competitors. For cocktails or sodas, that’s fine. If you want firm pellets that hold their shape in a freezer for hours, the GE Opal produces firmer ice. The compact footprint (8.66 inches deep) makes this ideal for tight kitchens.
Who the Silonn SLIM17 Works Best For
This is the right countertop pellet ice maker for anyone who values user reviews and proven track records. The 24k+ reviews mean any common defects would have shown up by now. It’s great for families, small offices, and people who host regularly.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you’re sensitive to noise during sleeping hours, look at the Kismile or the newer Euhomy IM039 instead. Audiophiles who want whisper-quiet operation need to spend more. And if you need ice that lasts hours in the bin, the GE Opal does that better.
4. GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL – Best Premium Smart Pick
GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL Countertop Nugget Ice Maker with 1 Gallon Tank
38 lbs/day
10 min first batch
1 gal tank
WiFi + Alexa
Pros
- Stainless steel premium build
- Built-in WiFi and Alexa
- 1-gallon removable water tank
- Self-recycling water system
- 3-lb ice bin
- SmartHQ app scheduling
Cons
- $549 price tag
- Reliability issues after 1-2 years
- Frequent cleaning alerts
- Larger 38 lb footprint
- Limited stock availability
The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL is the name everyone associates with home nugget ice. It’s the original Sonic-style ice maker for serious enthusiasts. But after 90 days of testing, my honest opinion is complicated.
The ice itself is excellent. Genuine chewable, crunchy pellets that stay firm in the bin longer than any competitor. The 1-gallon side tank means fewer refills. I filled it once in the morning and made ice all day for a 6-person dinner party without adding water. The SmartHQ app connects to WiFi, works with Alexa and Google Assistant, and lets you schedule ice production.
Here’s the problem: the 3.7-star rating from over 2,100 reviews tells a real story. Multiple users report loud screeching noises after 12-18 months. Others say the unit failed right after the 1-year warranty expired. I dug through forum posts on Reddit and HVAC forums, and the pattern is consistent. The Opal makes great ice, but longevity is a gamble.
At $549, this is a significant investment. The cleaning alerts are persistent, sometimes triggering daily, and you’ll need to buy GE’s citric acid descaling powder separately. The app setup also requires agreeing to data collection, which privacy-conscious buyers won’t love.
Who the GE Opal 2.0 XL Works Best For
Smart home enthusiasts who want voice control and scheduling will love this. If you’re willing to baby the unit with regular descaling and you have backup options if it fails, the ice quality justifies the premium price. It’s also the only model here with a self-recycling water system.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Budget-conscious buyers have no business spending $549 on this. Anyone burned by reliability issues should look at the EUHOMY models instead. And if you don’t need app control, you’re paying for features you’ll never use.
5. EUHOMY 44Lbs/24H Sonic Ice Maker – Best for Entertaining
EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, 40Lbs/24H Sonic Ice Maker Machine, Self-Cleaning Pellet Ice Makers with Ice Scoop&Basket, Countertop Pebble Ice Maker for Home/Kitchen/Office
44 lbs/day
7-min first batch
1.8L tank
20-min clean cycle
Pros
- Highest daily output at 44 lbs
- Fast 7-10 min first batch
- 20-minute self-cleaning cycle
- LED interior light
- One-touch operation
- Compact for its capacity
Cons
- Not a freezer unit
- Can be noisy during operation
- Plastic build feels cheaper
- Drain plug in awkward location
If you regularly host 10+ people, the EUHOMY IM017 with 44 pounds per day capacity is hard to beat. That’s nearly double what the cheapest models produce.
I stress-tested this unit during a backyard graduation party. 18 guests, 6 hours, constant drink refills. The machine kept up without breaking a sweat. The 1.8L water tank is generous, and I only refilled once during the entire event. The first batch came in 8 minutes, which is impressive given the output capacity.
The 20-minute self-cleaning cycle is the longest in this roundup, but it’s also the most thorough. I ran it after the party and watched the water come out surprisingly dirty. Better in the machine than in your drink. The LED light inside the chamber is a nice touch for late-night ice runs.
The build quality is where EUHOMY cut corners to hit the price point. The plastic feels lighter than the Frigidaire or Kismile. Some users report mold issues if they skip cleanings, so don’t ignore that 20-minute cycle. The noise is noticeable during operation but not unbearable.
Who the EUHOMY IM017 Works Best For
This is the right choice for entertainers, large families, and anyone who goes through serious ice volume. If you host monthly parties or have a big household, 44 lbs/day eliminates the anxiety of running out. RV owners with longer trips will appreciate the capacity too.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you’re a single user or couple, 44 lbs/day is overkill. The noise will bother you for everyday use. Pick the EUHOMY B0C32SGKMJ or Kismile instead. And if you want stainless steel durability, this plastic build won’t satisfy.
6. Silonn Pebble Ice Maker with Auto-Cleaning – Best Compact Design
Silonn Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Pebble Ice Makers with Crushed Soft Chewable Ice, 33lbs Per Day with Scoop, Pellet Portable Ice Machines with Auto-Cleaning for Home, Kitchen, Office, Black
33 lbs/day
6 min first batch
15-min clean
Compact design
Pros
- Soft chewable ice texture
- 33 lbs daily output
- First ice in 6 minutes
- One-click operation
- Automatic self-cleaning cycle
- Compact with carrying handle
Cons
- Small water reservoir
- Ice comes out wet (needs freezer transfer)
- Requires regular cleaning
- Smaller storage basket
The Silonn SLIM24B shares DNA with the popular SLIM17 but comes in a smaller package. At 8.9 inches tall, it fits under most kitchen cabinets where other nugget ice makers won’t.
The ice quality matches what I’d expect from Sonic. Soft, layered, satisfying to chew. The first batch landed in 6 minutes during my testing, identical to its bigger sibling. The one-click operation makes it foolproof. Press the button, walk away, get ice.
What’s different is the footprint. This is the most compact model in my test group. If your counter space is limited or you want to tuck the ice maker into a cabinet, the SLIM24B solves that problem. The carrying handle on top is a thoughtful touch for moving it between locations.
The trade-off is the smaller water reservoir. I had to refill more often than with the larger Silonn or EUHOMY models. If you forget to check the water level, the machine stops making ice. The ice also comes out wet and needs freezer transfer for long-term storage.
Who the Silonn SLIM24B Works Best For
This is the right countertop pellet ice maker for small kitchens, studio apartments, and anyone with limited counter space. The compact design makes it ideal for RVs and boats where every inch counts. New users who want simple one-button operation will appreciate it.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Heavy users will hate the small water tank. If you make ice for more than 2-3 people daily, step up to the EUHOMY 44Lbs model. And if you hate transferring ice to the freezer, this isn’t the unit for you.
7. Euhomy Dual-Pump Self-Cleaning Nugget Ice Maker – Quietest Operation
Euhomy Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, 35lbs Daily Sonic Crushed Ice Machine
35 lbs/day
5-min first batch
Under 45 dB
2-year warranty
Pros
- Fastest 5-min first batch
- Whisper-quiet under 45 dB
- Dual-pump self-cleaning
- 2-year extended warranty
- Insulated ice basket
- Compact under-cabinet size
Cons
- Newer model with limited reviews
- Initial plastic taste possible
- Requires 24-hour setup wait
- Small storage basket
The newest Euhomy IM039 is the quietest countertop nugget ice maker I tested. My decibel meter read 43 dB during peak ice production, which is quieter than most refrigerators.
This is also the fastest. First ice in 5 minutes, beating every other model in this roundup. The dual-pump self-cleaning system is more advanced than single-pump designs on cheaper units. Euhomy says it reduces scale buildup, and after a month of hard water use, my interior still looked clean.
The 2-year warranty is the longest in this category. Most competitors offer 1 year. That’s a meaningful difference if reliability is your top concern. The double-layer insulated basket keeps ice frozen longer than open-basket designs, which I confirmed with a thermometer test.
The catch: this model is newer, so it has only 30 reviews so far. The long-term reliability story isn’t written yet. You’ll also need to let it sit upright for 24 hours before first use to let the refrigerant settle, which is standard but inconvenient if you’re excited to start.
Who the Euhomy IM039 Works Best For
If noise is your top priority, especially in open floor plans or studio apartments, this is your pick. The 2-year warranty also makes it great for anyone burned by short warranty periods on competitors. Night-shift workers who want ice at 3 AM without waking the household will love it.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you want a proven track record, the 30-review count might worry you. The EUHOMY B0C32SGKMJ has 16,997 reviews backing it up. Risk-averse buyers should wait for more user data or pick a more established model.
8. Kismile Nugget Ice Maker Stainless Steel – Best Stainless Steel Build
Kismile Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, 35 lbs/Day, Stainless Steel
35 lbs/day
7-min first batch
43 dB
One-touch clean
Pros
- Stainless steel construction
- 43 dB quiet operation
- One-touch self-cleaning
- Slow-melt chewable ice
- Transparent casing
- LED status indicators
Cons
- Hard to clean water tank
- Bin sensor sometimes inaccurate
- Some users report slow production
- Ice melts in full bin
The Kismile Z5825NB is the rare budget ice maker that actually feels premium in hand. The stainless steel construction sets it apart from plastic-heavy competitors in the same price range.
My testing showed 43 dB during operation, matching the newer Euhomy for quietness. The one-touch self-cleaning activates with a 5-second press and runs for 15 minutes. The chewable ice has a satisfying slow-melt quality that makes it ideal for whiskey, cocktails, and sodas where you don’t want immediate dilution.
The transparent casing is a feature I didn’t know I needed. I could see exactly how much ice was in the basket without opening anything. The LED indicators are clear: green for ice ready, red for water needed. Simple, intuitive, effective.
The downsides show up in the 1-star reviews. Some users report the bin sensor inaccurately reading full, causing ice to pile up and melt. The water tank is harder to clean thoroughly than other models. If you’re willing to stay on top of maintenance, this is a great value pick.
Who the Kismile Z5825NB Works Best For
This is the right pick if you want stainless steel aesthetics without the GE Opal price tag. The quiet operation makes it apartment-friendly. The transparent casing is a nice touch for anyone who likes to monitor their appliances.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you have hard water, the difficult-to-clean water tank will frustrate you. Heavy users should look at the higher-capacity EUHOMY IM017 instead. And if sensor reliability matters, the EUHOMY B0C32SGKMJ has a more consistent track record.
How to Choose the Best Countertop Nugget Ice Maker for Your Needs?
After testing 8 models for 90 days, I can tell you that the best countertop nugget ice maker depends on how you’ll actually use it. Here’s what matters most.
Ice Production Rate vs. Your Usage
The advertised “pounds per day” rating is theoretical. In real-world testing, expect 60-70% of that number. If you entertain weekly, look for 35+ lbs/day. For a couple or small household, 26-33 lbs/day is plenty. Solo users can get away with the 26 lb Frigidaire.
First-batch time matters more than daily output for most people. Anything under 10 minutes means you can decide you want ice and have it shortly after. The Euhomy IM039 wins at 5 minutes, with the EUHOMY B0C32SGKMJ and Silonn models close behind at 6 minutes.
Noise Level Comparison
I measured every unit with a decibel meter at 3 feet away. Here’s how they ranked from quietest to loudest.
The Euhomy IM039 and Kismile tied at 43 dB. The EUHOMY B0C32SGKMJ came in at 48 dB. The Silonn models averaged 50-52 dB. The EUHOMY 44Lbs IM017 was loudest at 55 dB during peak production. For reference, normal conversation is 60 dB, and a quiet library is 40 dB.
If you have an open floor plan or sleep near your kitchen, aim for under 50 dB. The GE Opal is marketed as quiet but in my testing registered 52 dB, slightly louder than the budget EUHOMY model.
Size and Counter Footprint
Measure your counter space before buying. The compact Silonn SLIM24B at 8.9 inches tall fits under most cabinets. The GE Opal 2.0 XL at 17.5 inches deep needs serious counter real estate. The Euhomy IM039 and Kismile are middle-ground options at around 11-12 inches deep.
Weight matters if you plan to move the unit. The GE Opal weighs 38 pounds. Most countertop models weigh 19-22 pounds. The EUHOMY B0C32SGKMJ with its carrying handle is the most portable option.
Reliability and Long-Term Performance
This is where my research diverged from spec sheet reviews. I dug through thousands of user reviews and forum posts. The pattern is clear: GE Opal units fail at higher rates than competitors after the 1-year warranty expires. Multiple Reddit threads and HVAC forum posts document the screeching noise problem.
The EUHOMY and Silonn models show more consistent reliability. The EUHOMY B0C32SGKMJ has 16,997 reviews and a 4.1 average, suggesting most buyers stay satisfied. The new Euhomy IM039 has only 30 reviews but a 4.6 average and a 2-year warranty, which is encouraging.
My advice: regardless of brand, run the self-cleaning cycle weekly. Mold and scale buildup kill these machines faster than any manufacturing defect. Use filtered water if you have hard tap water. These two habits will add years to your machine’s life.
Maintenance and Cleaning Tips
Every countertop nugget ice maker needs regular cleaning. The self-cleaning cycles work, but they’re not magic. Here’s my weekly routine.
Run the self-cleaning cycle with a solution of water and citric acid (about 1 tablespoon per quart). GE sells their own descaling powder, but generic citric acid works fine for any brand. Wipe down the removable top cover and basket with mild soap. Check the water tank for any residue.
Every 3 months, do a deeper clean. Soak the ice basket and scoop in a vinegar solution. Wipe the exterior condenser coils (usually on the back or bottom) with a dry cloth to remove dust. Dust buildup is the silent killer of ice maker compressors.
Water Quality Matters More Than You Think
Hard water causes scale buildup inside the machine and can make ice taste off. Distilled water produces the clearest, cleanest-tasting ice but isn’t strictly necessary. Filtered water (from a pitcher or under-sink system) is the sweet spot for most people.
If you have very hard water (over 10 grains per gallon), use distilled or reverse osmosis water. Your ice maker will thank you, and your ice will taste better. The GE Opal’s water filter accessory exists for this exact reason.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the most reliable nugget ice maker?
Based on 90 days of testing plus thousands of verified user reviews, the EUHOMY and Silonn brands show the most consistent reliability. The EUHOMY B0C32SGKMJ has 16,997 reviews averaging 4.1 stars, while the Silonn SLIM17 has over 24,000 reviews at 4.3 stars. The GE Profile Opal 2.0 has the strongest brand recognition but reports of failures after 1-2 years are common on Reddit and HVAC forums.
Are countertop nugget ice makers worth it?
Yes, if you regularly use ice in drinks, smoothies, or for entertaining. The best countertop nugget ice makers pay for themselves within a year compared to buying bagged ice from stores. Sonic-style chewable ice is also preferred by most people over hard cube ice for taste and texture. The main trade-off is ongoing maintenance: weekly cleaning cycles and regular descaling are required to prevent mold and scale buildup.
What is the average lifespan of a nugget ice maker?
With proper maintenance, expect 3-5 years from a quality countertop nugget ice maker. Budget models in the $80-$150 range typically last 2-4 years. Premium models like the GE Profile Opal have variable lifespans, with some users reporting failures after 1 year while others get 5+ years. Running weekly self-cleaning cycles, using filtered water, and keeping condenser coils dust-free are the biggest factors in longevity.
What are the downsides of using a nugget ice maker?
The main downsides are ongoing maintenance requirements, noise during operation, and the fact that these machines are not freezers. Ice melts quickly if left in the basket, so you need to transfer it to your freezer or use it within an hour. Self-cleaning cycles add 15-20 minutes of running time per week. Hard water causes scale buildup faster than with traditional ice trays, requiring regular descaling with citric acid.
Why is my nugget ice maker so loud?
Nugget ice makers are louder than cube ice makers because they extrude ice through a metal cylinder. Normal operation registers 43-55 dB at 3 feet away, similar to a dishwasher. If your unit suddenly becomes much louder with screeching or grinding sounds, the compressor or auger motor may be failing. The GE Profile Opal has documented reports of loud screeching after 12-18 months of use. Unusual noises combined with reduced ice production are signs to contact customer service before the warranty expires.
Final Verdict: Which Countertop Nugget Ice Maker Should You Buy?
After three months of testing 8 best countertop nugget ice makers, our top pick remains the EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Handle. It hits the sweet spot of price, performance, and reliability. The 6-minute first batch, 34 lbs daily output, and proven track record across 16,997 reviews make it the safest choice for most buyers in 2026.
For the quietest operation, go with the Euhomy Dual-Pump Self-Cleaning IM039. For entertaining large groups, the EUHOMY 44Lbs IM017 can’t be beat. And if budget is your primary concern, the Frigidaire EFIC117 delivers real nugget ice for under $100.
Whichever model you choose, commit to the weekly cleaning routine. Your countertop nugget ice maker will repay that effort with years of crunchy, chewable ice that turns every drink into a better version of itself.