pellet ice maker GE Profile Opal

Top 10 Pellet Ice Makers Review of 2020

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The quality and quantity of your ice pellets mainly depend on the pellet maker you have. Unfortunately, the different types of pellet ice makers accessible online can make your acquisition process challenging. However, we have a guide to ensure your purchase process is less complicated, and you easily get a product offering the best investment value.

Our reviews of the best pellet ice maker are unbiased since our primary focus is to help you get the best product at the fairest price. As a result, we highly recommend you purchase GE Profile Opal portable pellet ice maker, as this piece will serve your needs to perfection.

This pellet ice-making machine can produce up to 24 pounds of pellets per day. The machine's one-time bin holding capacity is 3 pounds. Besides, it is potent and delivers the desired ice pellets in about 20 minutes. Finally, the piece is stylishly designed, especially with smart features that reduce operation complications.

Best Pellet Ice Maker Overall: GE Profile Opal

BEST OVERALL
ge profile opal nugget ice maker

The pellet ice maker excites in 3 areas: immense power, stylish design, and ideal capacity. Unfortunately, this might not be the most affordable piece available, but you'll get the best value for money after product acquisition. Its one-time holding capacity is 3 pounds, making it an ideal option for commercial and home use.

Comparison Table

GE Profile Opal

* Best Overall
ge profile opal nugget ice maker
Technical Details

Capacity(24 hrs)

3 Pounds

Installation Type

Countertop

Special Features​​​​

  • Swift start
  • Automated refills
  • Huge capacity
  • Bluetooth features
My Rating:
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NewAir Countertop Nugget Ice Maker

* Runner Up
newair countertop nugget ice maker
Technical Details

Capacity(24 hrs)

40 Pounds

Installation Type

Countertop

Special Features​​​​

  • Outstanding performance and speed due to its high-cooling power
  • An incredible 40-pound capacity
  • Stress-free self-cleaning features
My Rating:
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HTH 60LBS/24h Countertop Nugget Ice

* Budget Buy
hth 60lbs 24h countertop nugget ice maker
Technical Details

Capacity(24 hrs)

60 Pounds

Installation Type

Portable

Special Features​​​​

  • 60-pounds per day ice production capacity
  • Silence operation, owing to the fitted premium-quality compressor
  • Automated and stress-free operation
My Rating:
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KBice Self Dispensing Countertop Nugget Ice Maker

kbice self dispensing countertop nugget ice maker
Technical Details

Capacity(24 hrs)

24 Pounds

Installation Type

Countertop, Built-In

Special Features​​​​

  • Water reservoir
  • Ability to product soft and crunchy ice pellets
  • Self-dispenser and countertop design
  • Suitable for distilled, filtered, or bottled water
My Rating:
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Nugget Ice Maker

snooker nugget ice maker
Technical Details

Capacity(24 hrs)

155 Pounds

Installation Type

Freestanding

Special Features​​​​

  • Stainless steel construction
  • An LED lamp that is door activated
  • Classy and concrete exterior
My Rating:
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Manitowoc CNF-0201A-L Ice Maker

manitowoc cnf-0201a-l ice maker and water dispenser
Technical Details

Capacity(24 hrs)

315 Pounds

Installation Type

Countertop

Special Features​​​​

  • 10lbs ice storage capacity
  • Combined water dispenser and icemaker
  • Stainless steel coating
  • Heavy-duty construction
  • An attractive and stylish finish
My Rating:
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Scotsman SCN60GA-1SS 15" Brilliance

scotsman scn60ga-1ss brilliance outdoor ice machine
Technical Details

Capacity(24 hrs)

80 Pounds

Installation Type

Freestanding

Special Features​​​​

  • Rust-proof steel finish
  • Gravity drain
  • Air-cooled condenser
My Rating:
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Undercounter Nugget Ice Machine

undercounter nugget ice machine
Technical Details

Capacity(24 hrs)

280 Pounds

Installation Type

Undercounter

Special Features​​​​

  • Stainless steel exterior
  • Plastic interior
  • Efficient
  • Space-saving
My Rating:
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VBENLEM 2 in 1 Commercial Ice Maker

vbenlem 2 in 1 commercial ice maker with water dispenser
Technical Details

Capacity(24 hrs)

78 Pounds

Installation Type

Countertop

Special Features​​​​

  • Adjustable feet for uneven floors
  • Potent compressor
  • Silent and stable operation
  • Energy saving
  • A premium grade touch panel
  • Rust-proof steel door
My Rating:
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Hoshizaki C-80BAJ

hoshizaki c-80daj air-cooled undercounter cubelet ice machine maker
Technical Details

Capacity(24 hrs)

80 Pounds

Installation Type

Built-In , Undercounter

Special Features​​​​

  • A 115v capacity
  • Self-contained condenser
  • Air-cooled system
My Rating:
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What You Need to Know Before Buying a Pellet Ice Maker

Different pellet makers have differing features. Therefore, it is essential to know what to look for during product acquisition. Fortunately, we've compiled a detailed buyer's guide to help you make the best purchase decision.

The guide will also teach you the unique features worth considering when you make your purchase. But before we get into the do's and don'ts of buying a pellet ice-producing machine, let's look at the top 10 pieces available for sale.

ge profile opal nugget ice maker

Technical Details

Brand Name

GE Major Appliances

Item Weight

47 Pounds

Product Dimensions

15.25 x 14.25 x 17.25 inches

Capacity(24 hrs)

3 Pounds

Installation Type

Countertop

Color

Stainless-Steel

The pellet maker's durable construction – rust-proof steel and plastic – makes it hardy and stylish for your home. Its use is also straightforward; therefore, first-time buyers will have their needs sorted in the best way possible.

Besides, the inclusion of smart features, including Bluetooth connectivity, plays an incredible role in making the operation process stress-free. With the incorporated Bluetooth connection, you schedule your ice making process using your phone.

The incorporated smart features ensure the bin always remains considerably full, without overfilling. That said, this countertop pellet maker is powerful enough to make up to 24 pounds of ice every day. It is also fast and produces about 1 pound of ice per hour. Therefore, the device can make your desired ice cubes in less than 20 minutes.

Unfortunately, the pellet maker's biggest drawback is its warranty. Many buyers have complained that the piece isn't returnable in case of defaults. All in all, the pellet maker has exceptional features that you'll undoubtedly enjoy, including:

  • Swift start
  • Automated refills
  • Huge capacity
  • Bluetooth features

Pros

  • The stylish and handy design
  • Perfect capacity for home or commercial use
  • Smart features to ease operations
    Fast
  • Highly potent

Cons

  • The pellet maker is expensive
  • The warranty doesn't seem to work
newair countertop nugget ice maker

Technical Details

Brand Name

NewAir

Item Weight

38.4 Pounds

Product Dimensions

16.5 x 10.5 x 16.3 inches

Capacity(24 hrs)

40 Pounds

Installation Type

Countertop

Color

Stainless Steel

The ice maker's capacity makes it a good option for the price. It can make up to 40 pounds of ice daily. Its speed of use is also incredible, making you enjoy the first batch of your desired pellets in about 5 minutes.

Its construction is also outstanding, with the added insulation and thick wall ensuring the maximum retention time for your ice, ensuring the pellets remain cold for a long period. In matters related to safety, the pellet maker is ideally made to suit your health concerns. It is also super easy to use, with the incorporated self-cleaning features offering you a stress-free machine washing experience.

The exterior is also made of resilient and rust-proof materials. Unfortunately, given the product's huge capacity and high price, those under a strict budget might be compelled to look for affordable options. However, if you manage to pay above the average fee for this pellet maker, rest assured of getting a pellet maker with:

  • Outstanding performance and speed, especially due to its high-cooling power
  • An incredible 40-pound capacity
  • Stress-free self-cleaning features

Pros

  • Stress-free to clean
  • Fast
  • Huge capacity

Cons

  • Slightly expensive
hth 60lbs 24h countertop nugget ice maker

Technical Details

Brand Name

HTH

Item Weight

62 Pounds

Product Dimensions

13 x 20 x 24 inches

Capacity(24 hrs)

60 Pounds

Installation Type

Portable

Color

Stainless Steel

Every customer desires to get a pellet maker that offers excellent investment value. The quality must be top-notch, and the price should be fairly affordable to achieve the optimal investment value of any pellet maker. Unfortunately, not all purchases provide such a lucrative deal, so it's right to say that the pellet maker under review is an exception.

The product's low and affordable cost shouldn't cause any alarm, as its features have been modified to meet the buyer's needs to perfection. This pellet maker has a large 11-pound capacity. In a day, it is capable of producing up to 60 pounds of ice.

This makes the pellet maker suitable for both commercial and domestic use due to its production ability. It is also fast, enabling you to make your desired ice batches in about 18 minutes. The pellet maker is also resilient due to its exterior rust-proof steel and interior plastic construction.

These features make it an ideal option for commercial use. The pellet maker is also automated, therefore, stress-free to operate. It is fitted with a premium-quality compressor to keep it silent during operation.

This pellet maker is, undoubtedly, an ideal option for everyone looking for a product that offers the best investment value. Below are some features to enjoy if you make the pellet maker your domestic or commercial ice-making machine:

  • 60-pounds per day ice production capacity
  • Silence operation, owing to the fitted premium-quality compressor
  • Automated and stress-free operation

Pros

  • The pellet maker is perfectly priced
  • Huge 60 pounds per day production capacity
  • Super easy to operate
    Ideal for commercial use

Cons

  • Can be challenging to use at home if you've limited space
kbice self dispensing countertop nugget ice maker

Technical Details

Brand Name

KITCHEN BASICS 101

Item Weight

40 pounds

Product Dimensions

16 x 17.5 x 12 inches

Capacity(24 hrs)

24 Pounds

Installation Type

Countertop, Built-In

Color

Black

This is the best pellet maker for making soft and crunchy ice pellets without touching it since it is a self-dispensing ice making unit. It is also a high-quality and productive pellet maker specifically designed to suit your individual needs.

Therefore, it is right to say that your search for a small pellet ice maker for home usage has now come to an end, as here's a piece that will, undoubtedly, serve you to perfection. The machine's refrigerant is made of the best user and environmental-friendly materials.

It also contains an in-built, self-cleaning function that eases the machine washing process for smooth operation. The pellet maker has a compact countertop design, meaning it is suitable for home and commercial use. It also has a water reservoir, meaning that you won't be required to carry water separately whenever you want to use the pellet maker. That said, here's a brief look at the exceptional features of this appliance:

  • 24lbs. daily ice production capacity
  • Water reservoir
  • Ability to product soft and crunchy ice pellets
  • Self-dispenser and countertop design
  • Suitable for distilled, filtered, or bottled water

Pros

  • It is self-cleaning
  • It is suitable for any countertop
  • It is fast and efficient
  • It is portable
  • 1-year warranty

Cons

  • It only uses distilled, filtered, or bottled water
  • Produces ice pellets in small quantities
snooker nugget ice maker

Technical Details

Brand Name

SNOOKER

Product Dimensions

20 x 22 x 38 inches

Capacity(24 hrs)

155 Pounds

Installation Type

Freestanding

Color

Stainless Steel

Finding an appliance that offers the best value for money is hard, but not with this pellet making machine. The pellet maker comes with a 100% risk-free purchase and an extended 3-year warranty upon purchase. It has all the essential features that you need for that perfect ice nugget, such as:

  • Stainless steel construction
  • An LED lamp that is door activated
  • Classy and concrete exterior
  • Large quantities of about 155lbs in 24hrs

The product's quality is unmatched since it is made from a stainless steel material. This ensures your pellets will not have a rusty taste. Protection from corrosion also bolsters the pellet maker's resilience, therefore, making the product serve you for a long period. Finally, the piece is fitted with a LED lamp that is activated when you open and close the door.

Pros

  • Offers a 100% satisfaction warranty
  • Huge capacity
  • Classy and premium quality

Cons

  • Slightly costly
  • Not portable
manitowoc cnf-0201a-l ice maker and water dispenser

Technical Details

Brand Name

Manitowoc

Capacity(24 hrs)

315 Pounds

Installation Type

Countertop

Color

Metallic

Quality, style, and uniqueness, among other attributes, make this appliance the best among the ice makers under review. It is reasonably priced, with its cost being considered an exceptional bargain, especially given its extremely high operation speed. The ice maker also has the following outstanding features:

  • 10lbs ice storage capacity
  • Combined water dispenser and icemaker
  • Huge, 315 pounds, daily production capacity
  • Stainless steel coating
  • Heavy-duty construction
  • An attractive and stylish finish

Besides, this unit's classy look adds elegance to your bar or home's interior. Luckily enough, the manufacturer's focus on making a stylish ice maker doesn't compromise the product's quality, as you'll still get a heavy-duty and rust-proof unit upon purchase.

The unit also comes with a one year warranty upon purchase and a 30-day hassle-free return if it does not meet the standards mentioned. Unfortunately, this attractive and elegant product might fail to suit outdoor use, due to its portability issues and huge capacity. However, it's still an ideal option for many and non-regrettable purchase to all.

Pros

  • This is a 100% risk-free purchase
  • Huge capacity
  • Durable and premium quality material
  • Offers ideal value for money
  • Fast and efficient

Cons

  • It is slightly expensive
  • It is not portable
scotsman scn60ga-1ss brilliance outdoor ice machine

Technical Details

Brand Name

Scotsman

Item Weight

137 pounds

Product Dimensions

22.75 x 14.88 x 33.38 inches

Capacity(24 hrs)

80 Pounds

Installation Type

Freestanding

Color

Stainless Steel

Here's a considerable upgrade to consider if you have a small pellet ice maker for home usage. Its capacity is great, as it can hold up to 26 pounds of ice and produce 80 pounds of ice every day. It is also well-built to offer the desired robustness and reliability.

This freestanding pellet maker is suitable for commercial and home applications. It is super-easy to use and quick to provide the desired convenience. Besides, it is ideal for producing soft, chewable, and flavored ice. Below are some of the features that make the pellet maker outstanding and a great addition for those looking for effective and easy to use ice makers.

  • Rust-proof steel finish
  • Gravity drain
  • Air-cooled condenser

Pros

  • Super easy to install and operate
  • Energy-efficient – gravity drain
  • Silent

Cons

  • Doesn't come with a filter for the utmost quality
  • Slightly expensive
undercounter nugget ice machine

Technical Details

Brand Name

SNOOKER

Product Dimensions

26 x 26 x 41 inches

Capacity(24 hrs)

280 Pounds

Installation Type

Undercounter

Color

Stainless Steel

The pellet maker is ideally made for commercial use. It has a 110 pounds holding capacity and a stylish yet robust exterior for long service in your bar. This compact design ice maker also has raised feet to bolster its stability on uneven surfaces.

Despite the pellet maker's compact design also makes it an ideal space-saving option. The pellet maker can produce 280 pounds of ice daily, making it suitable for commercial use. That said, here are some other features of the maker that you might love:

  • Stainless steel exterior
  • Plastic interior
  • Efficient
  • Space-saving

Pros

  • Highly effective and powerful
  • Protected by a year warranty
  • Ideal for those with limited space

Cons

  • It is overly expensive
vbenlem 2 in 1 commercial ice maker with water dispenser

Technical Details

Brand Name

VBENLEM

Item Weight

61 Pounds

Product Dimensions

25.2 x 23.2 x 21.3 inches

Capacity(24 hrs)

78 Pounds

Installation Type

Countertop

Color

Stainless Steel

A powerful, stylish, and multifunctional pellet maker is all you get upon purchasing this 2-in-1 commercial ice-making machine. Its 14 pounds holding capacity is incredible, enabling you to produce up to 78 pounds of ice daily.

The pellet maker is also potent, and this, together with its huge capacity, make the product the best for those who want to realize and enjoy an efficient ice making process. Also, the pellet maker has a retractable dispenser that's highly efficient and safe.

That said, the incorporated smart features here make the piece convenient and super easy to use. The fitted buttons enable you to regulate every step during the ice-making procedure. Besides, the panels help you observe possible functioning faults.

In matters related to convenience, the ice maker has been designed to offer you the utmost cleaning easiness. The fitted 14-pound ice storage basket is removable for stress-free and detailed cleaning. The maker's compact design, adequate storage capacity, and powerful performance make it ideally versatile.

Rest assured, this is the best pellet maker for home use with remarkable features to offer you ideal investment value in quality matters. Some of these features include:

  • Adjustable feet for uneven floors
  • Potent compressor
  • Silent and stable operation
  • Energy saving
  • A premium grade touch panel
  • Rust-proof steel door

Pros

  • Advance convenience
  • Distinct control area
  • Versatile
  • Premium quality

Cons

  • Lacks a troubleshooting option to detect malfunctions
hoshizaki c-80daj air-cooled undercounter cubelet ice machine maker

Technical Details

Brand Name

Hoshizaki

Item Weight

130.0 Pounds

Product Dimensions

14-7/8 x 22-5/8 x 33-1/2 inches

Capacity(24 hrs)

80 Pounds

Installation Type

Built-In , Undercounter

Color

Stainless Steel

The ability to produce 80 pounds of ice every day doesn't come easy, but with the Hoshizaki ice maker, you've got a chance to make enough ice for home and commercial use. This ice maker also has an exceptional 22-pound holding capacity, making it one the largest ice makers under review.

This pellet maker's exterior finish is also outstanding, thanks to the rust-proof steel used during pellet maker manufacture. The stylish exterior finish makes the piece an ideal addition to your home or bar. Besides, other added features make the pellet maker ideal for out-of-the-house use. This exceptionally made pellet maker also has:

  • A 115v capacity
  • Self-contained condenser
  • Air-cooled system

Pros

  • The pellet maker has an exceptional production and holding capacity
  • Stylish rust-proof finish
  • Incredible power

Cons

  • The warranty period is slightly short

Picking an Ideal Pellet Ice Maker Machine

Getting a high quality and non-regrettable purchase isn't a walk in the park. You ought to consider multiple factors, and if you get them right, you'll easily end up with a piece that offers you satisfaction and the ideal investment value. Here's a closer look at the essential factors to consider when buying a pellet ice maker for home usage.

The Quality and Size of Ice

Quality is by far the essential consideration during ice pellet maker purchase. You, undoubtedly, need a pellet maker that produces the desired ice quality consistently. Unfortunately, portable and cheap ice makers will not meet your demands when it comes to quality.

ice nuggets and pellets

Instead, you should invest in commercial countertop or under the counter makers. Even though such products will cost slightly more, they will always consistently produce the premium quality you desire.

Production Volume

This highly depends on the size and type of your pellet maker. A pellet ice maker for home should have a production capacity of about 26 pounds every 24 hours. For commercial use, look pellet ice makers with a production volume of about 80 pounds.

Storage Volume

This, again, is based on the size and type of ice maker. Some pellet makers fill in about 10 minutes, while larger ones can hold up to 26 pounds of ice. However, it's important to note that the ice-making process/production halts once the bin is full.

Therefore, for relatively large occasions, an ice maker with a considerably large storage volume is highly required. On the other hand, you can use a small pellet ice maker if you need ice for domestic or slight function use.

Application and Cleaning Convenience

Retractable parts are easy to clean, which highly impacts the quality of the ice pellets you produce. Away from that, most pellet makers are super easy to use, although a few products will cause challenges in setting ice size and types. However, you don't need these complex machines, as straightforward ones are also accessible for purchase.

The Pellet Maker's Dimensions

Size is highly dependent on where you want to place your pellet maker. Besides, size also affects the pellet maker's portability, making small ice makers easily portable compared to large commercial makers.

Resilience

Robust materials dictate the ice maker's durability. Therefore, look for a well-built pellet maker that won't break down after a few weeks or months. Also, make sure the ice maker is constructed to withstand the application demands.

Flexibility

A number of the accessible ice makers can make about 2 ice types. Since smaller ice makers are easily conveyed, they are ideal for those in need or home use devices. All in all, large ice makers offer the desired versatility, as they ideally suit home and commercial use. With these large pellet makers, transportation might be a problem, but always ensure the pellet maker is fitted with ideal water and drainage features.

The Installation Process

Small and easy-to-ferry pellet makers are conveyed ready to use. These do not require installation, and you only need to plug them into a power source for use. However, large pellet makers require you to fit the right water and drainage systems before using them.

Price and Warranty

Cheaper pellet ice makers offer low-quality ice, small production volumes, and low storage volume. Expensive ones offer high-quality ice, and they come with a large bin for high-volume production. Since you'll most likely purchase a costly pellet maker, it is essential to consider the item's warranty.

This ensures that you won't lose your investment if the machine fails to function after a short period. For pellet makers that come with a relatively short warranty, you can ask for an extension of the stated period to ensure your piece is covered for a longer time.

Final Thoughts

A pellet ice maker is an ideal addition for drink enthusiasts and running a business that frequently requires ice. The multiple options accessible ensure that you end up getting the piece you need, although this comes after detailed research of the best product and features to look in an ideal purchase.

Fortunately, this blog has covered all you need to know during ice makers' acquisition. The info here ensures that you understand in-depth all the essential factors that determine a non-regrettable purchase. Besides, the guide has multiple options to pick from, as these are well researched and tested to offer the desired investment value.   

 Image Credits - Amazon.com, Photo Stocks.

About the Author Yvonne Ferguson

Yvonne Ferguson is a culinary enthusiast and dedicated cooking tech reviewer. She’s constantly looking for the most up-to-date products and information to share with IceMakersHub readers. Yvonne enjoys making family-friendly recipes while sharing tips on choosing handy appliances for a healthy life.

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