Yes, a standard countertop ice maker will give you regular ice cubes—but if you’re looking for an upgrade, a nugget ice maker is the way to go. Often called pellet ice or Sonic ice (named after the fast-food chain known for using it), this type of ice stands out for its small size and satisfying chewable texture. Nugget ice fits perfectly into mugs and tall glasses, allowing your drink to chill evenly while the slow-melting texture keeps beverages cold longer.
While Sonic does offer bagged nugget ice, making a trip just for ice isn’t always convenient—especially if there’s no location nearby. The good news? You can enjoy that same soft, crunchy ice at home. We reviewed top-rated nugget ice makers from trusted brands like GE and Frigidaire to bring you the best options available.
Best Overall Nugget Ice Maker
Frigidaire Countertop Nugget Ice Maker V2
While looks aren’t everything when it comes to kitchen appliances, Frigidaire’s V2 nugget ice maker certainly brings style to the table. Its sleek stainless steel finish complements most kitchen designs, and with a daily output of up to 33 pounds of nugget ice, it delivers both form and function. We found the curved, top-opening lid easy to operate, and the compact height makes it a perfect fit beneath upper cabinets. It’s also light enough to move around or store away when not in use.
Despite its small footprint, the Frigidaire V2 produces a generous amount of crunchy, chewable ice—ideal for frequent hosts or anyone who enjoys entertaining. It’s user-friendly, thanks to clear instructions, and refilling is simple: just remove the ice tray and pour water in. Plus, any melted ice water is automatically recycled into the next batch, helping reduce waste.
Best Splurge Nugget Ice Maker
GE Profile Countertop Nugget Ice Maker V2
As the saying goes, go big or go home—and with this machine, you can do both. The GE Profile Opal 2.0 is often regarded as the top choice for home nugget ice makers, delivering up to 38 pounds of ice per day and beginning to produce ice just 10 minutes after starting. It even features Wi-Fi and voice control—not essential, but definitely a nice touch.
We’ve tested the Opal 2.0 both in the lab and in everyday use, and it consistently delivers high-quality ice with reliable output. It operates more quietly than most kitchen appliances, aside from the occasional clink of ice dropping into the bin.
“I loved that the Opal constantly recycles melted ice and water to make fresh nuggets,” says Food & Wine associate editor Arnesia Young, who helped test it in our lab. “You never end up with a solid block of frozen ice.”
Refilling is simple thanks to the removable side tank, which you can fill directly at the sink. Cleanup is easy too, thanks to the built-in drain and self-cleaning feature. The main drawback is the price—it’s one of the more expensive options available. There’s also a slightly cheaper version without the water tank, but we don’t find the cost savings worthwhile. It’s also a fairly large unit, so it will take up some counter space—but for those serious about their nugget ice, it’s a worthy investment.
Best Value Nugget Ice Maker
AGLUCKY Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
Nugget ice makers typically aren’t cheap, but AGLUCKY offers a more affordable option that still performs well. With a self-cleaning feature and the ability to produce up to 35 pounds of ice per day, it’s user-friendly—operated with a single button. Press once to start making ice, or hold for five seconds to activate cleaning mode. We also appreciated its compact and lightweight design, and the removable handle makes it easy to transport.
This machine produces nugget ice with a great chewy texture and works quickly. However, the ice bin holds only 1.5 pounds—about half the capacity of similar models—so you’ll need to empty and refill it more often if you’re entertaining. It’s a bit bulky for the storage it offers and lacks the polished appearance of pricier models. Still, for the speed and output it delivers, this machine is an excellent value for those wanting nugget ice in as little as 10 minutes.
How We Tested Nugget Ice Makers
We evaluated five of the most popular nugget ice makers through hands-on testing, comparing them side by side using key performance criteria.
Design
During unboxing and setup, we examined each model’s aesthetics, water reservoir size, weight, overall footprint, and portability. We also considered noise level, insulation of the hopper, and how easily the unit could be moved.
Ease of Use
We followed each machine’s instructions to assemble, fill with water, and start the ice-making process. Usability factors included spill risks, user interface, and bonus features like Wi-Fi control, voice activation, and self-cleaning modes.
Performance
We timed how long it took to fill the hopper and used a decibel meter to record noise levels. We assessed leftover water, then evaluated the ice for shape, clarity, texture, and taste—comparing results to authentic Sonic ice for accuracy.
Melting Test
To test melt resistance, we placed ice in a margarita glass and measured how much remained after 20 minutes. This demonstrated how nugget ice holds up compared to solid cubes.
Value
Finally, we considered each machine’s price to determine overall value. At the time of testing, prices ranged from $170 to $629, with an average around $400.
What to Look for in a Nugget Ice Maker
Installation Type
All models tested plug into standard outlets and sit on your counter, requiring manual water refills. If you’re after a permanent solution, pricier built-in options are available that connect directly to plumbing lines.
Ice Yield & Capacity
Machines typically produce 24–44 lbs of ice per day. While that’s enough for most gatherings, bin capacity matters too—most only hold 1–3 lbs at once, so expect to store excess ice separately if needed.
Ease of Cleaning
Most machines feature one-touch self-cleaning. Some include removable reservoirs for quicker rinsing and sanitizing. A brief review of the manual can simplify upkeep from day one.
Counter Space
Ensure you have room to display your ice maker with a few inches of space around it for airflow. Proper ventilation prevents the motor from overheating and extends the unit’s life.