Nugget Ice Maker Countertop - 44 lbs/24H Chewable Ice Machine

In this review of the Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, the bottom line is simple: this unit is for anyone who wants a steady supply of soft, chewable pebble ice without the fuss of scoops or bulky equipment. The reviewer found its 44 lb per day yield and compact footprint make it especially useful for home bars, small offices, and apartment kitchens. The machine balances strong daily production with a hygienic lever dispenser and one-touch self-cleaning, so the biggest reason to buy is reliable, hands-free nugget ice that fits on a counter.

Key Features

• High-yield production: Produces up to 44 lbs of chewable nugget ice per 24 hours, so you can host gatherings without running out quickly.
• Rear water reservoir: The 2.4L tank supports continuous production and is large enough for several ice-making cycles before refilling.
• Hands-free dispensing: Lever-style dispensing prevents direct contact with the ice, improving hygiene for families and shared spaces.
• Self-cleaning: A 10-minute one-touch cleaning cycle simplifies maintenance and reduces the time spent scrubbing.
• Compact footprint: With dimensions about D16.34in x W10.63in x H16.93in, it fits on most counters, dorm desks, or RV galleys without dominating the space.
• Chewable texture: Produces soft, porous pebble ice that chills drinks well while melting more slowly than crushed ice, preserving flavor.

Who It's For

This nugget ice maker is ideal for home bartenders, iced coffee lovers, and small offices where frequent access to chewable ice improves drinks and convenience. Its hygienic dispenser and compact size make it well suited to families and shared kitchens where scoops and bare-hand contact are undesirable.

It is less appropriate for large commercial venues that need continuous multi-hundred-pound supply or integrated plumbed water lines; the 2.4L reservoir and countertop design target households and small-scale use rather than restaurant back-of-house needs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High daily output of chewable nugget ice that enhances drinks and snacks.
• Hands-free lever dispensing improves hygiene and reduces the need for an ice scoop.
• One-touch 10-minute self-cleaning cycle and drain plug make maintenance straightforward.
• Compact stainless steel body fits in limited counter space while offering insulated performance.

Cons

• Reservoir capacity and countertop design mean it is not suitable for high-volume commercial kitchens.
• The unit requires occasional manual refills of the 2.4L water tank for sustained heavy use.

Specifications

Brand	Antarctic Star
Ice type	Nugget / pebble chewable ice
Daily production	Up to 44 lbs per 24 hours
Water reservoir	2.4L rear reservoir
Dimensions	D16.34in x W10.63in x H16.93in
Cleaning	One-touch 10-minute self-cleaning with drain plug
Finish	Silver stainless steel

Our Verdict

The Nugget Ice Maker Countertop is a smart purchase for anyone who wants restaurant-style chewable ice at home without taking up much space. Its combination of a 44 lb daily yield, hygienic lever dispensing, and easy self-cleaning makes it good value for households, small bars, and offices that need regular, convenient ice. Those needing continuous commercial-scale production should consider larger, plumbed systems instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much ice does it make in a day?
The unit produces up to 44 lbs of nugget ice per 24 hours under typical conditions.

Does it require a water line?
No, it uses a 2.4L rear water reservoir and must be refilled manually when needed.

How is the machine cleaned?
Press and hold the ON/OFF for 5 seconds to start a 10-minute self-cleaning cycle and use the built-in drain plug to remove water.