I’ve rounded up six of the best Sonic ice makers. My top pick? The GE Profile Opal Nugget Ice Maker.
Do you love Sonic ice? You’re not alone. Sonic has some of the best ice in the fast food industry. Along with chicken giant Chick-fil-a, these fast food chains are known for their addictive chewable ice.
Fortunately, you don’t have to go to the drive-in to get Sonic ice. With a countertop ice maker, you can enjoy the delicious taste and chewy texture of Sonic ice from home.
I like the GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker for its top-notch performance and sleek design.
But there are several factors you should consider when getting a Sonic ice maker. For that reason, I’ve broken down all the features of the best nugget ice makers, as well as their pros and cons.
Which Sonic ice maker should earn a spot on your countertop? Keep reading to learn more.
Contents
Sonic Ice Maker Reviews
GE Profile Opal 2.0 Countertop Nugget Ice Maker: Best Overall Nugget Ice Maker
Dimensions: W: 13.4 inches (34 cm), H: 16.5 inches (42 cm), D: 17.5 inches (44 cm)
General Electric (GE) has been in operation since 1892 and is one of the most popular brands for home appliances. The GE Profile Opal Ice Maker is one of the top countertop ice makers available.
This nugget ice maker comes in your choice of stainless steel or black stainless exterior. It has a side tank that functions as a water reservoir, so you don’t need a water hookup.
The GE Profile Opal 2.0 Ice Maker makes up to 24 pounds (10.9 kg) of ice per day with a large-capacity bin that holds up to 3 pounds at a time. You can enjoy your first pellets of ice in less than 20 minutes.
The built-in WiFi capabilities allow you to connect your ice machine with the SmartHQ app to monitor the status of the appliance and schedule fresh ice. A convenient option when you’re at work but want ice ready for when you get home.
Plus, you can receive automatic updates and access voice control capabilities through Alexa and Google, giving you as much freedom as possible.
The LED display offers precision control at the touch of a screen. It illuminates when being used and darkens when at rest to save energy.
Finally, you can keep your GE Profile Opal Ice Maker free of mold and mildew without hours of scrubbing. With the advanced self-cleaning system, Opal cleaning kit, and built-in UV light, you can limit bacteria and keep the ice maker clean, without hassle.
There is an earlier version of this appliance. The first version of the GE Profile Opal Ice Maker has many of the same specifications but lacks the bells and whistles.
It has the same max daily ice production of 24 pounds (10.9 kg) and the same size side tank. It has a stainless steel exterior and an option for Bluetooth. But there is no voice control or self-cleaning function. It’s also less expensive than the newest version.
Customers raved about the GE Profile Countertop Ice Maker. They loved the delicious nugget ice and the large capacity of the ice bin. You’ll want to make sure you have proper clearance under your cabinets, as this ice maker is quite large.
Buyers were able to make plenty of ice for themselves and three other people, but several said it was on the slower side.
If you’re hosting a party, I’d recommend planning and making ice a day before to freeze in bags. That way you won’t risk running out of ice in the middle of the festivities.
Some buyers found the unit to be a little noisy, but others said it was quiet. That seems to be mostly influenced by personal preference.
This GE Profile Opal Ice Machine is expensive, but it’s perfect for ice enthusiasts who want Sonic ice at their fingertips.
Pros
- Makes 24 pounds of chewy ice
- Attached water reservoir
- Wifi & Voice Control
- LED display screen
- Self-cleaning function
Cons
- A little slow in making ice
- Some found it noisy
- Expensive
KBice Nugget Ice Maker: Best Self-Dispensing Ice Maker
Dimensions: W: 12 inches (30 cm), H: 17.5 inches (44 cm), D: 16 inches (41 cm)
Next up on the list of chewy ice makers is this KBice Nugget Ice Maker. It comes in black housing with a stainless steel front.
The KBice nugget ice maker is self-dispensing and features a compact design. It’s mess-free and easy to use.
To use this chewy ice maker, fill the water reservoir with purified, bottled, or distilled water. Soft tap water is also acceptable. Press the button and enjoy soft, crunchy ice nuggets within 25 minutes.
This ice machine can produce a maximum of 30 pounds of ice (13.6 kg) over 24 hours. It has an internal storage capacity of 2 pounds (.9 kg), allowing you to fill your glass with ice anytime.
The ability to dispense nugget ice is efficient, allowing you to quickly and easily fill your cup with delicious Sonic ice. But it’s also hygienic since you don’t have to grab a scoop or touch anything.
This portable countertop ice maker also has a self-cleaning function to keep your unit clean and running efficiently.
The easy-to-use control panel has a button to make nuggets, dispense nugget ice, and clean the unit. The water level light will alert you when you need to add more water.
To add water, use the included plastic water port insert as a funnel and pour the water into the reservoir. One nice feature is that if you don’t use all the ice, it’s not a problem. The ice melts and the machine refreezes the melted ice.
So what did buyers think of the KBice Sonic ice maker? User reviews were mixed. Many buyers liked the flavor and texture of the ice, as well as the ease of use. Their favorite feature was the self-dispensing ability.
But several customers found the KBice ice machine to be quite noisy. And many buyers wished this nugget ice maker held more ice. Multiple customers complained that they easily ran out of ice.
This KBice pebble ice maker is a great value, but it doesn’t have the large capacity of other countertop models.
If a self-dispensing ice maker is your top priority, the KBice Ice Maker is your best best. If you need large quantities of ice, however, you’ll be better off with another option.
Pros
- Self-dispensing
- Compact design
- Easy to use
- Self-cleaning system
- Makes chewable Sonic nugget ice
Cons
- Small ice bin
- Noisy
Euhomy Countertop Nugget Ice Maker: Best Nugget Ice Maker with Auto-Refill
Dimensions: W: 9.7 inches (25 cm), H: 17 inches (43 cm), D: 17.6 inches (45 cm)
This Euhomy Countertop Nugget Ice Maker makes fantastic nugget ice for the Sonic ice lover. It comes in either a silver or black exterior finish and is designed for countertop use.
It comes with a connecting hose, an ice basket, and an ice scoop.
You can get ice for your drink in just 15-18 minutes. The Euhomy ice maker can run the entire day, producing 26-30 pounds (11.8-13.6 kg) of ice in 24 hours. The ice bin holds up to 3.3 pounds (1.5 kg) of nugget ice at a time.
The automatic water refill function allows you to connect the ice machine to your water supply, meaning you can get ice without having to refill the water tank.
There is also an option that allows the machine to be filled manually for those who don’t have a water hookup or prefer to use it that way.
The self-clean function prevents limescale and odors. Simply hold the button for longer than 3 seconds. The manufacturer recommends you occasionally clean the machine for the best results.
Customers had high praise for the Euhomy nugget ice maker. They loved the quality of the nugget ice, and many compared the results to Sonic ice. A few said the nugget ice came out a little wet, but other than that, it was perfect.
Those that successfully hooked up the machine to their water supply enjoyed this feature. Others had trouble connecting it, however.
Several customers did have problems with malfunctioning units. This was typically preceded by a loud, grinding noise. The flip side? They raved about the excellent customer service.
If you want an automatic refilling Sonic ice maker, the Euhomy Nugget Ice Maker is one of the best.
Pros
- Auto water refill function
- Self-clean function
- Large capacity ice bin
- Easy to use
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Reports of loud grinding sound
- Nugget ice runs a little wet
- Expensive
Thereye Countertop Nugget Ice Maker: Best Bargain Pick
Dimensions: W: 10 inches (25 cm), H: 17 inches (43 cm), D: 14 inches (36 cm)
The Thereye Countertop Nugget Ice Maker uses compacted ice flakes to make delicious pebble ice for your favorite drink. It has a stainless steel exterior with a black accent.
This pellet ice maker has a 3-quart (2.84 liters) water reservoir and a maximum daily ice production of 30 pounds (13.6 kg). This machine makes a batch of ice in just 15 minutes, so you can enjoy a cup of pellet ice in no time.
The Thereye chewy ice maker has two refill modes: automatic and manual. You can connect the included hose for easy, hassle-free water filling. You could also add water manually if you choose.
Just be sure to use water that has gone through a water filter or distilled water. Hard water won’t produce good results, and could potentially damage ice makers.
Hold the clean button for three seconds to start the automatic cleaning cycle. No more scrubbing the ice bin.
Customers were very pleased with their Thereye Nugget Ice Makers. They enjoyed the soft, perfectly Sonic-like ice that this ice maker produces.
Several buyers did emphasize that the ice must be refrigerated or frozen after the ice production process. Otherwise, the ice will melt, and you must open the lid to restart the ice-making process.
There were a few reports of metal chunks in the ice tray. This happened when a unit malfunctioned. Although this is atypical, people were concerned for obvious reasons.
But there is good news. Due to excellent customer service, those customers were able to get their nugget ice makers replaced quickly and hassle-free.
Pros
- Makes ice quickly
- Easy to use
- Auto or manual refill option
- Auto-cleaning feature
- Quiet operation
- Good customer service
- Relatively affordable
Cons
- Reports of metal pieces in the tray
Gevi Household Nugget Ice Maker: Splurge Pick
Dimensions: W: 9.7 inches (25 cm), H: 16.9 inches (43 cm), D: 17.6 inches (45 cm)
If you love chewy ice, you might consider the Gevi Household Nugget Ice Maker. This countertop nugget ice maker comes in three color options: blue, white, or black.
The Gevi ice maker only takes 15 minutes to make soft, chewy ice. It can produce up to 26 pounds (11.8 kg) of ice per day. Plus, the large capacity ice basket can hold up to 4.8 pounds (2.18 kg) of ice, so it will be ready to cool your beverage at any time.
The Gevi Household ice maker is easy to use, with a self-explanatory control panel and intelligible indicators. Just plug it in and get started!
The compact design makes it ideal for the countertop. But like with all nugget ice makers, ensure you have the space by measuring before you buy.
The cleaning function keeps this ice maker running at its best without requiring hours of scrubbing.
Buyers had overwhelmingly positive things to say about the Gevi ice maker. They said it was easy to use and easy to clean, and it made perfectly chewy soft ice.
There were also isolated reports of a loud grinding sound when the unit malfunctioned. This did happen on occasion, but several people reported good customer service, so you can rest easy.
It is pricier than other models, so you’ll want some flexibility in the budget. But overall, this ice maker is great for those who want to make ice for the whole family.
Pros
- Three color options
- Large capacity
- Easy to use
- Auto or manual refill
- Cleaning function
Cons
- Reports of loud grinding sound
- Expensive
Frigidaire EFIC237 Countertop Chewable Nugget Ice Maker: Best Looking Ice Maker
Dimensions: W: 12 inches (30 cm), H: 19 inches (48 cm), D: 17 inches (43 cm)
Last but not least is the Frigidaire Nugget Ice Maker. This ice maker has a sleek, elegant design and comes in four color options.
This countertop nugget ice maker is efficient. You can cool down your beverage with fresh ice in just 15 minutes. And when it comes to Sonic ice makers, this one can crank out a lot of ice. It can make a whopping 44 pounds (20 kg) in one day!
The portable design is perfect for the countertop, and it doesn’t require a water hookup. It comes with a scoop and plugs into any outlet. The automatic cleaning is convenient for keeping this ice maker at its best.
Customers were overall pleased with their Frigidaire ice makers. They liked the beautiful, clear ice and the soft, chewy texture. They loved the ease of use and the ease of cleaning, too.
The things they didn’t love? It was too tall to fit under some countertops. Make sure to measure before purchasing. A few had problems with malfunctioning units, and others said it was noisy. This was not the case for everyone, but something to be aware of.
This is a great option for those who want to make a lot of ice in one day. It’s also the best pick for those who want an ice maker that looks aesthetically pleasing on the countertop.
Pros
- High production capacity
- Four color options
- Sleek aesthetic
- Makes ice in 15 minutes
Cons
- Manual refill only
- Reports of malfunctioning units
Sonic Ice Machine Buying Guide & FAQ
Why Do I Need a Countertop Nugget Ice Maker?
Nugget ice machines are certainly not essential for the kitchen. However, several factors make ice makers a nice luxury to have in the home.
First of all, they are great for cooling drinks quickly and efficiently. The flaky texture means the ice won’t melt as quickly as traditional ice cubes, so you don’t need as many to effectively cool down a drink.
Nugget ice makers also save space in the fridge. Instead of eating up valuable space trying to keep sodas and other drinks refrigerated, you can store them at room temp and cool them down with nugget ice.
Lastly, for those people who love to eat ice, Sonic ice makers can save money. Instead of driving to Sonic (or another fast-food joint) and ordering a drink or a cup of ice, you can save gas and drink money by making the ice right at home.
What is Sonic Ice?
Sonic Ice is the iconic crunchy ice produced by the fast-food chain Sonic. It’s flaky, chewable, and downright delicious. The texture and small size make it the perfect chewy ice.
It’s also great for cooling down a beverage quickly without melting and diluting your drink.
Is Nugget Ice the Same Thing as Sonic Ice?
Sonic ice and nugget ice are practically the same thing. Nugget ice can vary slightly in size, but the consistency and shape are the same. Sonic Ice is a wildly popular chewable ice.
It’s made with a Sonic Ice Machine, which creates smaller ice crystals that float in water and melt more slowly. This is ideal for keeping drinks cold for a longer time.
Can I Make Sonic Ice at Home?
Want the taste and texture of Sonic Ice from the convenience of your own home? No problem! With a nugget ice maker, you can get Sonic Ice anytime. Nugget ice machines are available through several brands, giving you plenty of options.
If you live far away from a Sonic or other fast-food chains, or if you just can’t get enough of that chewy ice, a home Sonic ice maker is the answer.
What is Nugget Ice?
Ice is just frozen water. So how can some ice taste so different from other types? It all has to do with the freezing and compacting process.
Most ice makers simply freeze water into solid cubes. Nugget ice makers, however, rely on an auger system that forms tiny flakes of ice. The flakes are then compacted into small bite-sized shapes or nuggets.
The result? A nugget of snow-like flakes with a light and airy texture that many people find irresistible!
Not only that, but nugget ice can cool a drink faster and melt more slowly. That’s why nugget ice is used by fast-food chains like Sonic and Chick-fil-a. Their use of this ice is why some people refer to it as Sonic ice or Chick-fil-a ice.
Although the process sounds simple in theory, it’s challenging to achieve in practice. This is why most nugget ice makers are expensive and tougher to come by.
What’s the Difference Between Pellet Ice and Nugget Ice?
Pellet ice is essentially the same thing as nugget ice. This type of ice goes by many names, including Sonic ice, Chick-fil-a ice, chewy ice, and pebble ice.
All of those terms refer to the same small, pebble-shaped ice that is flaky, chewable, and light in texture. The ice melts more slowly than traditional ice, allowing people to enjoy chewing it for a longer time.
What is Bullet Ice?
Bullet-shaped ice is similar in size and shape to nugget ice and pellet ice, but it has a different texture and consistency. Bullet ice cubes are denser, much harder, and less chewable than nugget ice. They also have a hollow center, whereas nugget ice is filled.
Sonic ice is not bullet ice but pebble ice.
How Much Ice Do I Need Per Day?
How much ice you need largely depends on your personal preference. However, most nugget ice makers have a daily ice production of anywhere from 20-30 pounds (9-13.6 kg) of ice per day. You can plan for 1-2 pounds (.45-.91 kg) of ice per person.
Let’s say you need more ice for a party. In that case, most Sonic ice makers have a scoop you can use to fill bags with ice cubes. Freeze them ahead of time so you won’t run out.
Conclusion: Best Nugget Ice Makers
Bottom line, what’s the best nugget ice maker out there? My recommendation is the GE Profile Opal Ice Maker. It has an elegant design, quiet operation, and excellent results.But it is on the pricier side. If you need a more affordable option, I would recommend the Thereye Countertop Ice Maker. It’s easier on your wallet but still has great reviews and some nice features.
