Make creamy, soft-serve ice cream or frozen yogurt. Right in your own kitchen, no fancy shop required. Imagine having that perfect, dreamy dessert whenever a craving hits. A quality soft ice maker turns that dream into a delicious reality, and it’s easier than you might think. Forget the hassle of pre-freezing bowls or complicated churning.
This review is all about finding the right machine for you. We’ll look at what features really matter for getting that signature creamy texture. You’ll be whipping up custom flavors in no time, trust me. Let’s see which model can become your new favorite kitchen gadget.
Product Comparison Table: 7 Best Soft Ice Maker
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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Typhur Fast Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Self-Cleaning Pump,…
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9.8 |
Read Review |
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GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL with 1 Gallon Tank,…
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9.6 |
Read Review |
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Iceman Pebble Ice Machine, Countertop Nugget Ice Maker Produces…
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9.3 |
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Silonn Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Pebble Ice Maker with…
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9.1 |
Read Review |
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ecozy Ice Makers Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Carry…
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8.8 |
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Totnz Boost Ice Maker with 2.5L Expanding Ice Basket…
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8.6 |
Read Review |
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Midea MERI26B1AGN Countertop Bullet-Ice Maker, 8 Ice Bullets Ready…
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8.3 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 7 Soft Ice Maker
Typhur Fast Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Self-Cleaning Pump, 35lbs/24H Crushed Pebble Ice Machine with Pellet Ice, 8 Packs Cleaner, Dual Ice Scoops for Home, Kitchen, Party, RV, Stainless Steel
The Typhur Fast Nugget Ice Maker Countertop is designed for anyone who loves that soft, chewable ice. If you’ve ever wanted a steady supply of pebble ice at home without the hassle, this machine aims to make it straightforward.
It’s built around speed and volume. The unit can produce up to 35 pounds of ice in a 24-hour period. That means you can have a fresh batch ready for a party or just for daily use without a long wait.
It has a 1.5-liter water tank and the ice basket holds about 2.6 pounds at a time, which helps reduce how often you need to refill it. So you get ice quickly and the machine manages itself for a while.
The type of ice is a key feature. This isn’t your standard hard cube. It makes next-level chewable nugget ice—soft, crunchy, and airy. This texture is gentler on your teeth and many people find it enhances the flavor of their drinks, from sodas and iced coffee to cocktails.
It chills beverages effectively without watering them down to quickly.
Maintenance is simplified with a one-touch cleaning system. You press the “Clean” button and a high-pressure pump runs a 7-minute cycle to flush the ice-making path. This helps ensure your ice stays fresh and the machine runs smoothly. For your convenience, the package includes 8 packs of cleaner and descaler, plus dual ice scoops.
GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL with 1 Gallon Tank, Chewable Crunchable Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, Scoop included, 38 lbs in 24 hours, Pellet Ice Machine with WiFi & Smart Connected, Stainless Steel
The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL with 1 Gallon Tank is a countertop nugget ice maker designed for households that go through a lot of ice. It’s centered around producing that specific, soft, chewable ice that’s become so popular, and it builds in conveniences to make accesing it easier.
This machine specializes in what the brand calls Opal Nugget Ice. This ice is different from the hard cubes from your freezer.
It’s made from compacted ice flakes, which gives it a soft, crunchy texture that many people prefer in there drinks. It retains flavor well and is ready to use very quickly, with the first batch being done in about 10 minutes. The unit can produce up to 38 pounds of this nugget ice over a 24-hour period, which is a considerable amount for a countertop appliance.
It makes about 1.6 pounds of ice every hour and stores up to 3 pounds in its removable drawer at a time.
A key feature is the integrated 1-gallon water tank. This eliminates the need for a permanent connection to your water line, offering more placement flexibility. You simply detach the tank, fill it, and click it back in. This tank also supports producing more ice in a cycle compared to models without it. For connectivity, the Opal 2.0 XL includes built-in WiFi.
Iceman Pebble Ice Machine, Countertop Nugget Ice Maker Produces Chewable Pellet Ice in 20 Minutes, Makes 33lbs/Day, with One-Touch Cleaning Function and Ice Scoop/Basket Included – Stainless Steel
The Iceman Pebble Ice Machine, RJ56-PB18-SS, is a countertop appliance designed to produce a specific type of ice on demand. If you’ve ever enjoyed the soft, chewable nugget ice found in some restaurants or hospitals, this machine brings that experience directly into your home or office. It’s built for those who prefer their ice to cool drinks quickly without being a solid, hard cube. One of the primary benefits is the speed and convenience.
You can have your first batch of pebble ice in about 20 minutes. This means no more planning ahead with ice trays or running to the store for bags. The machine operates independantly of your freezer, freeing up valuable space for food and other items. Its compact size is made to fit on a kitchen counter, bar cart, or in a home office without taking over the entire area.
It holds a decent amount too, with a 2.4-pound storage capacity in the included basket and a production rate of up to 33 pounds per day. The ice itself is the main attraction. This maker produces small, pellet-style ice that is softer and more porous than traditional cubes. It chills beverages like soda, iced tea, or cocktails almost instantly because of its greater surface area. And yes, many people find this type of ice fun and satisfying to chew.
Silonn Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Pebble Ice Maker with Soft Chewable Ice, One-Click Operation Ice Machine with Self-Cleaning, 33lbs/24H, Stainless Steel
The Silonn Nugget Ice Maker Countertop is designed for anyone who appreciates the unique texture of soft, chewable ice. This pebble ice maker focuses on delivering that classic nugget ice experience directly to your kitchen counter, combining high output with straightforward operation.
Its core function is effective ice-making. The machine can produce up to 33 pounds of crushed ice every twenty-four hours. That’s roughly equivalent to 48 standard cups.
This capacity makes it a practical choice for larger families or for entertaining, ensuring you have enough ice for parties, preserving food in coolers, or simply keeping up with daily demand for iced coffee and tea.
You get enhanced iced drinks because of the ice’s specific texture. The chewable nugget ice has a softer consistency and a greater surface area compared to traditional cubes.
This means it chills your beverages more rapidly and integrates smoothly into the drink without diluting it to quickly. The experience is different from hard cubes, offering a pleasant, chewable finish.
Speed is a key advantage. You can have your first batch of pebble ice ready in approximately six minutes. This instant ice production means you don’t have to plan far ahead.
ecozy Ice Makers Countertop, Portable Ice Machine with Carry Handle, 26lbs in 24Hrs, 9 Ice Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, Auto-Cleaning Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Kitchen/Camping/RV
The ecosy Ice Makers Countertop is a portable ice machine designed to put fresh ice on demand right at your fingertips. It’s built for situations where you need ice fast and reliably, without the hassle of a complex appliance. Whether your hosting a gathering, heading out in the RV, or just want cold drinks at home, this unit aims to simplify that process.
One of it’s core strengths is speed and capacity. You can have a batch of nine bullet-shaped ice cubes ready in about six minutes.
Over a full day, it can produce up to 26 pounds of ice. That means you’re not left waiting when you suddenly need to cool down beverages for yourself or for guests. The machine offers a choice between two ice cube sizes. This lets you select smaller cubes that chill a drink quickly or larger ones that melt more slowly, which is handy for different types of drinks from sodas to spirits.
Maintenance is often a concern with appliances, and this model includes a self-cleaning function.
You initiate the cycle with a single button, helping to keep the interior components free of mineral buildup and ensuring the ice it produces stays fresh. This feature is meant to reduce the routine upkeep you have to think about. Operation is also notably quiet. The machine runs with a low hum, so it won’t be a disruptive presence in your kitchen, living area, or camper, allowing conversations or relaxation to continue undisturbed.
The design is compact and portable.
Totnz Boost Ice Maker with 2.5L Expanding Ice Basket & 1.8L Water Tank, 9 Bullet Ice Cubes in 6 Mins, Ice Maker Countertop with LED Touch Control Self-Cleaning, Ice Machine 2 Ice Sizes
The Totnz Boost Ice Maker is designed to solve the common frustrations with portable ice machines. If you’re tired of constantly refilling a tiny water tank or emptying a small basket every hour, this model’s expanded capacity directly addresses those pain points.
Its standout feature is the 2.5-liter expanding ice basket. It holds about twice as much ice as many standard portable units.
This means the machine can keep up with demand during gatherings without you having to stop the party to empty it constantly. The basket uses a spring-loaded design so it can expand as it fills, and the machine is built to automatically maintain a ready supply, keeping ice available around the clock.
Paird with that is the larger 1.8-liter water tank. This size reduces how often you need to refill it by about half compared to models with smaller reservoirs.
For all-day use in a home office, kitchen, or RV, this translates to less interuption. You can focus on your guests or work while the machine produces a continuous flow of ice. It claims a production rate of 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes in as little as 6 minutes, adding up to 26 pounds per day.
You have a choice between two ice cube sizes, which is handy for different drinks. A smaller cube might chill a soda quickly, while a larger one melts slower in a cocktail.
Midea MERI26B1AGN Countertop Bullet-Ice Maker, 8 Ice Bullets Ready in 6 Minutes, 26lbs/24H, Self-Cleaning Function with Ice Scoop and Basket for Home/Office/RV
The Midea MERI26B1AGN Countertop Bullet-Ice Maker is designed for anyone who needs a reliable supply of ice without the hassle of a traditional freezer tray. It’s a straightforward appliance that focuses on doing one job very well: making solid, cylindrical ice bullets quickly and efficiently.
This machine stands out because it lets you choose your ice size. You can opt for small ice bullets that cool down a glass of soda or water rapidly, or select the large size.
The larger bullets are perfect for spirits and cocktails, as they melt slower and won’t dilute your drink to quickly. This flexibility means you can tailor the ice to your activity, whether it’s a quick refreshment or a leisurely evening.
Speed is a major feature here. The Midea unit can produce its first batch of 8 ice bullets in just 6 minutes. Over a full day, it can generate up to 26 pounds of ice.
This capacity makes it more than capable of keeping up with a small gathering, a busy workday in the home office, or the needs of a road trip in your RV. You won’t be left waiting around when you need ice the most.
Its compact design is a key benefit. It doesn’t take up much counterspace at all, so it can fit neatly in a kitchen corner, on a bar cart, or in a small RV galley. The portability means you can easily move it to where the party is, or tuck it away when not in use.
Soft Ice Maker Buying Guide
A soft ice cream maker is perfect for creating creamy treats at home. But with so many models available, how do you choose the right one? This guide will help you pick a machine that fits your kitchen and your lifestyle, making it easy to enjoy a classic soft-serve cone whenever you want.
Capacity and Size
Think about how much ice cream you’ll make at once. A smaller, 1-quart unit is great for individuals or couples. For families or parties, look for a model with a larger bowl. Also, check the machine’s physical footprint. Will it fit comfortably on your counter, or will you need to store it in a cupboard? A compact design is a major plus for smaller kitchens.
Freezing Method
This is a key decision. Some machines require you to pre-freeze the bowl for 12-24 hours, which needs planning. Others have a built-in compressor that freezes the mix as it churns—you just plug it in and go. Compressor models are more convenient but often cost more and are larger. Ask yourself: Do you mind planning ahead, or do you want instant, on-demand results?
Ease of Cleaning
Nobody wants to spend ages scrubbing complex parts. Look for a model with removable bowls, lids, and dashers that are dishwasher-safe. Simple designs with fewer nooks and crannys make cleanup a breeze. If the parts are difficult to wash, you might find yourself using the machine less often, which defeats the whole purpose.
Texture and Consistency
A good soft ice maker should produce a smooth, creamy result, not an icy or grainy one. Read reviews to see what other users say about the final texture. Machines with adjustable consistency settings give you more control, allowing you to get that perfect, soft-serve stiffness right from the first try. It’s the difference between good and great homemade treat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Ice Maker
What is a soft ice maker?
It’s a countertop appliance that makes soft-serve style ice cream or frozen yogurt. You pour in a liquid base, and it freezes and churns it into a creamy treat right in front of you.
How does it work?
It has a built-in freezing cylinder. You pour your pre-chilled mix into teh machine. A dasher inside spins, scraping the frozen mix from the walls to create that smooth, soft consistency we all love.
What can I make with it?
You can make classic soft serve, frozen yogurt, or even sorbet. Most machines come with recipes, but you can experiment with store-bought mixes or your own homemade creations. Just ensure your mixture is cold before you start.
Is it hard to clean?
Not really! The mixing bowl and dasher are usually removable for easy washing. Always unplug the unit first. A quick clean with warm, soapy water after each use is best to prevent residue buildup.
How long does it take to make ice cream?
It typically takes between 20 to 40 minutes. The time depends on your specific machine and how cold your mixture was to begin with. Patience is key for the best texture.
Can I use any recipe?
You need to use recipes designed for soft-serve or ice cream makers. These have the right balance of fat and sugar to freeze properly. Using a standard ice cream recipe might not give you the right results.
Do I need to pre-freeze a bowl?
No, that’s the convienient part! A dedicated soft ice maker has its own compressor freezer system, so there’s no bowl to pre-freeze. You just plug it in and it’s ready to go.
How much does it make at once?
Most home models make between 1.5 and 2 quarts per batch. This is perfect for a small family or a group of friends. It’s best to serve it right away for that authentic soft-serve texture.
Where should I store the machine?
Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Make sure it’s completely dry before you put it away. You shouldn’t store it while it’s still plugged in, of course.
Our Verdict
For continuous, creamy soft-serve at home, a soft serve machine is a fantastic addition to your kitchen. It turns simple ingredients into a fun, customizable treat in minutes. You can control exactly what goes in, making it perfect for family nights or casual gatherings with friends. The convenience is a real game-changer.
If you enjoy having a special dessert option ready anytime, this appliance is for you. A good soft ice maker is simple to operate and easy to clean. It brings a bit of that classic ice cream shop joy right to your counter. You’ll find it opens up a world of possibilites for creating your own favorite flavors.