If you’ve ever been to a café, bar, or even a trendy kitchen party, you know the appeal of nugget ice — those soft, chewable little cubes that are perfect for cocktails, sodas, and even iced coffee. For businesses, nugget ice is not just a luxury; it’s a customer magnet. For home entertainers, it’s the secret to impressing guests.
That’s where a commercial under counter nugget ice maker machine comes in. Built for power, efficiency, and style, these machines deliver a steady supply of the good stuff — right where you need it. Let’s take a look at the top 5 nugget ice makers of 2025, each with its own strengths, weaknesses, and ideal uses.
Why Invest in an Under Counter Nugget Ice Maker?
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High Capacity: Much larger output than countertop models.
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Space-Saving: Fits neatly under counters in bars, cafés, or kitchens.
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Consistency: Produces nugget ice all day without running out.
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Professional Appeal: Perfect for businesses, restaurants, or homes that host often.
Top 5 Commercial Under Counter Nugget Ice Makers
1. Scotsman SCN60 Nugget Ice Machine
One of the industry leaders, Scotsman is the gold standard for nugget ice. With a sleek stainless steel design, this machine produces up to 80 lbs of nugget ice per day.
Usage Example: Perfect for a high-end home kitchen, cocktail bar, or café where customers expect premium quality ice with every drink.
Pros: Consistent soft nugget texture, quiet operation, attractive stainless-steel build, trusted brand reputation.
Cons: Higher price point, requires professional installation.
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2. GE Profile Opal 2.0 Under Counter Nugget Ice Maker
A more compact and stylish option, this GE Profile model combines smart technology with everyday practicality. It makes about 38 lbs of nugget ice per day, ideal for moderate use.
Usage Example: Excellent for a family kitchen or office lounge where people want quick access to chewable ice for iced teas, sodas, or smoothies.
Pros: Wi-Fi connectivity (control with app), sleek modern design, easy cleaning system.
Cons: Lower production capacity compared to heavier-duty commercial models.
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3. Manitowoc CNF0201A Nugget Ice Machine
Built for heavy commercial use, this machine produces an impressive 315 lbs of nugget ice daily. It’s powerful, efficient, and designed for restaurants or cafeterias.
Usage Example: Perfect for fast-paced businesses like sandwich shops, buffets, or bars where ice demand is constant and high.
Pros: Extremely high output, reliable long-term performance, energy-efficient.
Cons: Larger footprint, requires a dedicated water line and drainage system.
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4. Ice-O-Matic GEMU090 Nugget Ice Maker
Compact yet powerful, the Ice-O-Matic balances commercial strength with a smaller size. Producing about 85 lbs of nugget ice daily, it’s a great mid-range option.
Usage Example: Perfect for boutique coffee shops or home entertainers who want a professional-grade machine without taking up too much space.
Pros: Quiet operation, compact design, stainless-steel durability.
Cons: Smaller bin capacity compared to larger commercial units.
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5. Hoshizaki C-80BAJ Nugget Ice Maker
Known for durability and craftsmanship, Hoshizaki delivers up to 80 lbs of nugget ice daily with a professional-grade build.
Usage Example: Ideal for small bars, luxury kitchens, or office break rooms where style and function matter equally.
Pros: Compact under-counter fit, efficient and reliable, elegant stainless finish.
Cons: Premium price tag, requires regular maintenance for peak performance.
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Quick Comparison
| Product | Daily Output | Best For | Notable Feature | Price Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scotsman SCN60 | 80 lbs | High-end kitchens, cocktail bars | Premium nugget texture | $$$$ |
| GE Profile Opal 2.0 | 38 lbs | Family kitchens, offices | Smart Wi-Fi control | $$ |
| Manitowoc CNF0201A | 315 lbs | Restaurants, cafeterias | Massive daily output | $$$$ |
| Ice-O-Matic GEMU090 | 85 lbs | Coffee shops, small bars | Quiet & compact | $$$ |
| Hoshizaki C-80BAJ | 80 lbs | Luxury kitchens, offices | Elegant stainless build | $$$ |
Final Thoughts
The right commercial under counter nugget ice maker depends on your lifestyle and ice needs:
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For luxury kitchens or high-end bars, the Scotsman SCN60 and Hoshizaki C-80BAJ deliver premium performance.
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For smart convenience at home, the GE Profile Opal 2.0 is stylish and app-connected.
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For serious businesses with heavy demand, the Manitowoc CNF0201A is unbeatable.
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For mid-range compact performance, the Ice-O-Matic GEMU090 strikes the perfect balance.
With any of these machines, you’ll enjoy endless crunchy nugget ice — perfect for drinks, entertaining, and business success.