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If you love nugget ice, you already understand why people want a machine just for it. It’s the texture and the crunch. I tried this stainless steel countertop nugget ice maker at my mom’s house with my sister, and we kept refilling cups just to snack on the ice. This was sent to me for review purposes.
Out of the box, setup felt simple. Everything arrived intact, the protective film came off easily, and it included what I needed to start using it right away.
Quick verdict
- Worth it if: you want chewable nugget ice fast at home
- Not for you if: you want ice stored frozen like a freezer
- My favorite feature: the nugget texture and fast first batch
- Would I buy again? Yes
Is a Countertop Nugget Ice Maker Worth It?
If you want fresh nugget ice on demand, this one delivered. I saw ice start dropping in about 6 to 8 minutes, the texture was right, and it stayed relatively quiet while running. It’s compact and doesn’t feel like a bulky appliance on the counter.
Stainless Steel Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
This is best for people who want nugget ice without installing a built-in machine.
You fill it, turn it on, and scoop ice as it makes it.
Countertop Nugget Ice Maker Specs and Details
- Type: Portable countertop nugget ice maker
- Finish: Stainless steel
- Ice production: Up to 35 lbs in 24 hours
- Water tank: 1.2 L
- First ice: About 6 to 8 minutes in my test
- Controls: Power button with ice-full and add-water indicators
- Self-cleaning: Hold the power button to start the cycle
- Included: Ice basket, scoop, attachable carry handle
- Drain: Bottom drain plug
Who This Nugget Ice Maker Is Best For
This works well if you want nugget ice at home and plan to scoop and use it as it’s made. It’s also handy if you want something portable for a bar area, office, or occasional trips.
First Impressions on the Counter
It looked clean and compact right away. The handle stood out because it made moving it easy. Once running, it was noticeable but not annoying.
Everyday Features That Matter
- Fast ice: Ice started forming within minutes.
- Nugget texture: Soft, chewable ice with a light crunch.
- Indicator lights: Clear signals for ice full and add water.
- Simple cleaning: One button starts the cleaning cycle.
- Portable design: Handle, scoop, and basket store neatly inside.
How It Worked in Real Use
Setup was simple. Fill the tank, plug it in, and press the button. It ran quietly and made ice fast. Since the ice isn’t stored frozen, you need to scoop it out and use it instead of letting it sit.
What I Liked About It
- Fast first batch
- Great nugget texture
- Quiet operation
- Compact size
- Easy to move with the handle
- Simple self-cleaning
What I Didn’t Love
- Ice melts if left in the basket (expected, so not really a con)
- Melts rather quickly in drinks that aren’t already cold (also, to be expected with soft ice)
Portable Nugget Ice Maker FAQs
- How fast does it make ice? I saw ice start forming in about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Does it store ice? No. Ice needs to be scooped and used.
- How do you clean it? Hold the power button to start the cleaning cycle.
- Is it easy to move? Yes. It’s compact and has a carry handle.
Would I Buy It Again?
Yes. For fresh nugget ice and quick turnaround, it does what I want. If you expect it to store ice like a freezer, this style will frustrate you. If you’re fine scooping as you go, it’s a fun and useful appliance.
