If you’re obsessed with soft, chewable nugget ice, you’re in the right place. Nugget ice (also called pellet, pebble, chewable, or “Sonic-style” ice) is airy and porous, so it soaks up flavor, cools drinks fast, and is gentle on teeth. Countertop machines have come a long way—today’s models produce pounds of nuggets per day without a water line, with self-cleaning modes that keep mineral buildup at bay. Below you’ll find the five best countertop nugget ice makers, explained in plain English with real-world pros and cons.

How we chose (and what really matters)

Production rate determines how quickly you can fill a bin for parties or daily hydration, but it’s only half the story; storage bin size and ice retention also matter because nugget ice melts faster than solid cubes. Maintenance is huge with nugget machines since the auger and internal tubing can accumulate scale, so we favored models with self-clean cycles, accessible reservoirs, and simple filter options. Noise and footprint affect how happily a machine lives on your counter, so we looked for well-damped compressors, smart airflow, and compact designs with handles where possible. Finally, we weighed day-to-day usability—clear lids, intuitive controls, low-water alerts, and any extras like app control or drain ports—to make sure each pick is friendly for busy kitchens.

1) EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Handle

This EUHOMY model earns a spot for pairing pebble-ice goodness with a grab-and-go design. The integrated handle makes it easy to move off the counter or out to the patio, and the body is compact enough for most kitchen nooks. A transparent lid lets you watch the nuggets pile up, which is both satisfying and practical for gauging batches. The interface keeps it simple with clear indicators for low water, full ice bin, and cleaning reminders.

Customers love how quickly the first nuggets arrive and how soft the texture feels in iced coffee, smoothies, and mocktails. Many highlight the consistency of the pellet size, which helps drinks chill evenly without turning watery too fast. Owners also applaud the self-clean function because it reduces the burden of regular descaling in hard-water areas. The handle itself gets praise for sturdiness, making it easier to carry the machine for sink refills or outdoor use.

There are a few trade-offs to note for this EUHOMY. As with most nugget makers, it hums while the compressor and auger are working, so night-owl cycles can be noticeable in small apartments. The bin is not a freezer compartment, meaning nuggets will slowly soften if left untouched for hours, though the machine will recycle meltwater. You’ll get the best performance with filtered water, which adds a small ongoing cost but pays off in cleaner taste and fewer scale deposits. If you want simple, portable nugget ice with straightforward care, this is a well-rounded choice.

Pros

• Compact body with sturdy integrated handle
• Clear lid and easy, icon-based controls
• Reliable self-clean cycle simplifies maintenance
• Soft, consistent nugget texture great for daily drinks

Cons

• Audible compressor/auger during production
• Bin isn’t refrigerated; ice softens over time
• Works best with filtered water for taste and longevity

2) Kismile Nugget Ice Makers Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with “Crushed Ice” Option

Kismile’s countertop unit makes the list for balancing price, output, and versatility. It’s designed to produce chewable pellets, yet the brand often markets a “crushed ice” experience that fans of slushier drinks appreciate. The form factor is countertop-friendly, and the controls are intentionally minimal so anyone in the family can run a batch. An accessible drain and rinse routine keeps daily care quick.

Customers highlight the agreeable chew of the pellets and the way they cool sodas and juices without being rock-hard. First-batch times are competitive, and replenishment is steady enough for refilling water bottles throughout the day. Many owners call out the value, saying it feels like a “premium nugget texture” without the premium price tag. Feedback also notes the machine’s straightforward cleaning mode, which helps reduce odors and keeps nuggets tasting fresh.

The machine is not silent; during heavy production, you’ll hear the auger and fan, which is typical for the category. Because the bin doesn’t freeze, it’s wise to transfer finished nuggets to a freezer bag if you’re stockpiling for a party. The “crushed” branding can confuse expectations—what you get is soft pellet ice, not blender-style shards—so set your hopes accordingly. If you want an approachable nugget maker that nails the daily-use basics, Kismile is an easy recommendation.

Pros

• Chewable pellet texture with good first-batch speed
• Straightforward interface and cleaning routine
• Strong value for the performance
• Handy drain and easy day-to-day care

Cons

• Normal nugget-maker noise under load
• Non-freezing bin; meltback over time
• “Crushed” marketing may confuse vs. true pellet ice

3) Frigidaire 26 lbs Per Day Portable Compact Maker (Chewable Alternative)

Strictly speaking, this Frigidaire portable makes bullet-style ice, not true extruded nuggets, but it deserves an honorable place for shoppers prioritizing chewability on a tighter budget. The 26-lb-per-day class output covers everyday drinks and smaller gatherings without hogging counter space. It’s one of the most “plug-and-play” designs available: fill the reservoir, press a button, and ice starts dropping. The compact, rounded body and clear viewing window keep it kitchen-friendly.

Owners like that the bullets are soft enough to crunch and easy to blend, giving a nugget-adjacent experience for iced coffee and smoothies. The machine’s speed is a crowd pleaser; it starts producing sooner than many larger nugget units. People also appreciate the low-maintenance routine—no complex auger pathway—and the simple wipe-down exterior. For renters and dorms, the small footprint and light weight are recurring compliments.

Trade-offs are real compared to true nugget makers. Bullets aren’t as porous as pellets, so they won’t soak up flavors the same way or cool quite as fast at equal volumes. The texture is pleasantly chewable when fresh but firms up if stored in a freezer, so plan to make near your serving time. Like others, the bin isn’t refrigerated, and filtered water will improve taste and reduce mineral spots. If you want a budget-friendly, chewable-ice experience today, this Frigidaire is a practical stepping stone.

Pros

• Affordable, compact, and very easy to use
• Fast first-batch output for daily drinks
• Chewable bullets satisfy many nugget fans
• Simple maintenance with fewer moving parts

Cons

• Not true nugget ice; different texture and flavor absorption
• Non-refrigerated bin; fresh is best
• Bullets can harden if stored long-term in freezer

4) COWSAR Nugget Ice Makers Countertop Soft Chewable Pellet Ice Machine

COWSAR’s nugget machine earns its spot by focusing on the core appeal: a soft, consistent pellet that’s gentle to chew. The design is clean and modern, with an intuitive top-lid window so you can peek at the growing pile of ice. Indicator lights make it clear when to add water or empty the bin, lowering the learning curve for first-time owners. A dedicated self-clean cycle helps reduce internal buildup, which protects flavor over time.

Customers call out the nugget texture as the main reason they’re hooked, especially for lemonades, cold brew, and mocktails. Many report that the pellets don’t dilute drinks as quickly as crushed ice, striking a nice chill-to-water ratio. Day-to-day operation is predictable: fill, tap, and go, with meltwater recirculated to avoid waste. The machine’s styling and footprint also score points for looking good on modern countertops without dominating space.

Like all nugget makers, the COWSAR needs regular rinses and periodic descaling to keep the auger and lines clear. During production, you’ll hear the working compressor and internal mechanics, which is normal but noticeable in quiet kitchens. The bin is best for short-term holding rather than long-term storage, so party planners may want to pre-bag nuggets and freeze them. If you prioritize texture and tidy design, this COWSAR checks the boxes for everyday pebble-ice bliss.

Pros

• Soft, chewable pellet ice with consistent texture
• Clean design with easy-read indicators and window
• Self-clean function streamlines maintenance
• Predictable daily operation with recirculating meltwater

Cons

• Routine descaling needed in hard-water regions
• Audible during active ice making
• Bin stores, but does not freeze, finished nuggets

5) Maksone Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, 44 lbs

The Maksone stands out for its higher output class—great for families, entertainers, and hydration heroes. Its design emphasizes steady production, so you can top off coolers or refill the bin quickly between rounds of drinks. Controls are simple and purposeful, and a viewing window keeps you informed without lifting the lid. A self-clean function, plus easy access to the reservoir, makes this larger producer surprisingly approachable.

Customers love that the Maksone keeps up with demand, reporting fewer “wait gaps” during parties or hot-day refills. The nuggets themselves are soft and snackable, with a pleasant crunch that doesn’t feel like biting a rock. People also note that the machine recycles meltwater efficiently, so you’re not tossing slush down the drain during long sessions. For households that go through a lot of ice—iced tea fans, meal preppers, and smoothie lovers—the output headroom is a big relief.

Bigger capacity means a bit more weight and audible operation when the auger is moving. As with peers, the storage bin isn’t refrigerated, so bagging and freezing batches is wise for events, although texture is always best fresh. Hard water will still require descaling on a cadence, particularly at this production level. If you want a countertop nugget maker that feels “party-ready” without permanent plumbing, the Maksone delivers.

Pros

• Higher output class ideal for families and entertaining
• Soft, chewable nuggets with satisfying crunch
• Simple controls with effective meltwater recirculation
• Self-clean and accessible reservoir ease upkeep

Cons

• Larger, heavier unit with normal production noise
• Non-freezing bin; plan to bag ice for parties
• Needs regular descaling in mineral-heavy water areas

Buying Guide: Key nuggets (pun intended) before you buy

Nugget vs. bullet/crushed. True nuggets are made by compressing flaked ice in an auger, creating airy pellets that absorb flavors and crush easily with your teeth. Bullet ice is made in molds and is denser; it can still be pleasantly chewable fresh, but it won’t sponge up syrups like nuggets.

Production vs. storage. “Per day” ratings reflect ideal conditions; real output depends on room temperature, water temperature, and how often you empty the bin. Storage bins on countertop machines usually hold for the short term and are not freezers—bag finished nuggets if you need to stockpile.

Maintenance matters. Scale is the enemy of taste and longevity. Use filtered water, run the self-clean cycle as directed, and perform periodic descaling with a manufacturer-approved solution to keep pellets tasting pure.

Noise and placement. All nugget makers make some noise when the compressor, fan, and auger are working. Place the unit on a solid surface with a little space around vents, and avoid tucking it under low cabinets where heat can build up.

Power and drainage. Most countertop units use standard household outlets and have internal tanks that recirculate meltwater. For large batches, a rear drain or easy lift to the sink makes rinses and refills simpler.

Frequently asked quick tips

How can I store nugget ice without losing texture? Bag fresh nuggets and place them flat in the freezer; tap the bag on the counter before serving to loosen pellets. For party service, pre-chill your cups and drinks to reduce melt.

Why does my nugget ice taste off after a few weeks? Mineral buildup and biofilm can sneak in. Use filtered water, run self-clean cycles, and descale on the schedule recommended for your water hardness.

Can I hook these to a water line? Most countertop models are reservoir-based and do not require plumbing. If a water line is important to you, verify the listing—some larger units support it, most smaller ones don’t.

Final Scoop: Which nugget maker is right for you?

If you want the easiest daily nugget habit with built-in portability, EUHOMY’s handle-equipped unit is the sweet spot of convenience and chewable texture. If value is the top priority but you still want true pellets, Kismile offers a user-friendly balance that keeps families happy. Want chewable ice on a tight budget and don’t mind bullet texture instead of true nuggets? Frigidaire’s 26-lb compact maker is the reliable starter pick. For a tidy modern look and consistently soft pellets, COWSAR is a texture-first crowd pleaser. And if you host often or go through mountains of ice, Maksone’s 44-lb class output is the one built for big thirsts and bigger gatherings.

Whichever way you go, remember the three habits that keep nugget ice dreamy: use filtered water, run the self-clean, and bag extra ice for later. Got a favorite nugget machine or a pro tip to keep pellets perfect? Drop your experience and questions in the comments—let’s help fellow nugget-ice fans find their perfect match!