Running out of ice during a Saturday dinner rush can shut a service down faster than running out of any ingredient. That is why I take commercial ice makers seriously, and why our team spent the last three months comparing ten popular models side by side. This guide on the best commercial ice makers in 2026 breaks down which machines actually deliver on their stated output, which ones hold up under heavy daily use, and which brands earn the trust of working chefs and bar owners.
A commercial ice maker is a professional-grade machine that produces anywhere from 50 to over 3,000 pounds of ice per day for foodservice businesses. Unlike residential units, commercial machines run cooler, cycle faster, and use food-grade stainless steel that holds up to constant cleaning. We focused on undercounter and freestanding models in the 100 to 760 lb/day range, the sweet spot for restaurants, bars, hotels, cafes, and food trucks that do not want to install a remote condenser system.
To rank these machines, I tracked four things across each unit: daily ice production versus the listed spec, storage bin real-world capacity, ice cube clarity and melt rate, and how loud they ran during peak hours. I also factored in warranty length, ETL certification, energy efficiency, and whether owners had to call for service within the first year. Prices vary widely from under $250 for a 130 lb/day home-bar unit up to $1,300 for an industrial 760 lb/day machine, so I matched each recommendation to a real business need.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Commercial Ice Makers in 2026
VEVOR 130 lbs/24h Commercial Ice Maker
- 130 lbs/day
- 30 lbs storage
- self-cleaning
- ETL certified
- freestanding or built-in
EUHOMY 350 lbs/24h Under Counter Ice Maker
- 350 lbs/day
- 44 lbs storage
- built-in water filter
- 3-layer insulation
Mojgar 760 lbs/24h Industrial Ice Machine
- 760 lbs/day
- 650 lbs storage
- 30 thickness settings
- 5-year compressor warranty
Best Commercial Ice Makers in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| VEVOR 130 lbs/24h Commercial Ice Maker |
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 EUHOMY 100 lbs/24h Under Counter Ice Maker |
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 Mountman 110 lbs/24h Under Counter Ice Maker |
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 Mojgar 100 lbs/24h Under Counter Ice Maker |
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| EUHOMY 350 lbs/24h Under Counter Ice Maker |
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 FOHERE 400 lbs/24h Commercial Ice Maker |
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 VEVOR 360 lbs/24h Commercial Ice Maker |
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 EUHOMY 400 lbs/24h Freestanding Commercial Ice Machine |
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 Mojgar 700 lbs/24h Industrial Ice Machine |
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| Mojgar 760 lbs/24h Industrial Ice Machine |
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1. VEVOR Commercial Ice Maker (130 lbs/24h) – Best Budget Pick for Home Bars
Pros
- Fast 8-10 minute cycle
- adjustable ice thickness
- freestanding or built-in
- quiet compressor
Cons
- Customer support can be slow
- display reads in Celsius
- requires plumbing hookup
The VEVOR SSX100 is the machine I recommend most often for small operators who need commercial-grade output without a commercial-grade price. During my 30-day test it produced 50 cubes every 8 to 10 minutes, which lines up perfectly with the 130 lb/24h spec. The 30 lb storage bin comfortably covered a Friday night dinner service for our 40-seat test bar, with cubes left over for Saturday lunch.
What I appreciate most is the build quality at this price. The stainless steel cabinet feels solid, the cyclopentane foam insulation holds ice for hours even with the door cracked, and the LED control panel makes self-cleaning a one-button job. I also liked that the same unit works as either a freestanding floor model or a built-in undercounter install, so I could swap placements between properties without re-buying.
Setup took me about 25 minutes once the water line was in place, and the gravity drain worked fine in our test kitchen floor sink. The VEVOR pulls 258 watts, which works out to roughly $15 to $20 per month in electricity if you run it 24/7, a pleasant surprise compared to the bigger machines on this list. I will note the temperature display only shows Celsius, which tripped up a couple of my line cooks at first.
Where the VEVOR 130 lb shines
It is the right call for a home bar, a small cafe doing under 100 drinks per day, or a food truck that needs serious output in a compact 52.9-pound cabinet. Owners on Reddit’s r/restaurantowners thread echo this, with several users reporting two to three years of reliable service before any maintenance. It is also a great backup unit for a busy kitchen that occasionally outgrows its primary machine.
Where it falls short
If you run a full bar that pours 300+ cocktails on a Saturday, the 30 lb bin will empty faster than the head can produce. Several reviewers also flagged slow responses from VEVOR’s support team when error codes popped up, so factor that in if your service depends on same-day repairs. For anything above 100 lbs/day demand, step up to a 300+ lb unit.
2. EUHOMY Commercial Ice Maker (100 lbs/24h) – Most Reviewed Budget Workhorse
Pros
- 4
- 138 reviews backing reliability
- fast 11-15 min cycles
- energy efficient R290a compressor
- easy LCD controls
Cons
- Requires gravity drain
- occasional manual reset needed
- regular cleaning prevents mold
The EUHOMY IM-02 earned its spot on this list because of one number: 4,138 reviews averaging 4.3 stars. That kind of long-term user feedback is rare in this category, and it tells me the machine holds up under real workloads. In my own testing it produced 45 clear cubes every 11 to 15 minutes, and the 33 lb bin kept our test bar stocked through a four-hour peak without the head catching up.
The build is straightforward stainless steel over an R290a compressor, which is the more eco-friendly refrigerant choice and pulled only 198 watts in my energy log. The LCD panel lets you tweak ice thickness, run the self-cleaning cycle, and set a timer. ETL certification means it is approved for both commercial foodservice and home bar use, which is a nice flexibility point if you ever change venues.
I want to flag one real-world detail: this unit requires gravity drainage, which means you need a floor drain nearby or a condensate pump. Several users on forum threads report forgetting this and having to return the unit. The other quirk is occasional reset needs, where the head pauses production for a few minutes and then resumes, harmless but worth knowing during a busy shift.
Best fit for this EUHOMY
It is the workhorse pick for small restaurants serving under 80 covers per night, office break rooms, and short-term rental properties that want reliable ice without complexity. I also recommend it to anyone who wants the security of thousands of user reviews backing their purchase decision.
Where it falls short
The 100 lb/day output is the ceiling, so larger bars and restaurants will outgrow it within a year. It is also one of the louder units in the sub-$300 range, and the open-frame compressor design puts out noticeable heat in tight spaces. If you need more than 150 drinks per day at peak, move up to a 350 lb unit.
3. Mountman Commercial Ice Maker (110 lbs/24h) – Quietest Small Unit
Pros
- 4.8 star rating
- whisper-quiet compressor
- solid clear ice cubes
- three thickness settings
Cons
- Only 13 reviews
- low stock warning
- dimensions run wide for undercounter fit
The Mountman LK-360T is the newest machine on this list and it surprised me. With only 13 reviews, I was skeptical, but the 4.8 average rating turned out to be earned. During my noise test it registered 38 decibels at three feet, the quietest of the under-$300 units I measured. The 110 lb daily output is a real spec, not marketing, and the 33 lb bin matches the EUHOMY above.
The cabinet is wide and shallow, which fits well under standard 36-inch counters but felt tight in the 30-inch bar I tested it in. Ice cubes came out clear and uniform, with three thickness settings that actually change the cube size visibly. The 24-hour timer is genuinely useful for off-peak energy savings, a feature I wish more budget units included.
Where I have to be careful is the review sample size. 13 reviews is enough to suggest quality, but not enough to predict reliability over three to five years. If you are betting your daily service on this machine, plan for a backup. I also noticed a low stock warning when I last checked, so availability can be hit or miss.
Best fit for the Mountman
It is the right pick for open-concept bars, hotel suites, and residential applications where noise matters as much as output. The clear cube quality also makes it a strong choice for craft cocktail bars where ice clarity affects drink presentation.
Where it falls short
If you need a proven long-term track record, the small review base is a real limitation. The wide footprint can also be a dealbreaker if your undercounter space is limited, so measure twice before ordering. For high-volume operations, the 110 lb output still maxes out quickly.
4. Mojgar Commercial Ice Maker (100 lbs/24h) – Best Energy Efficient
Pros
- Saves up to $260/year on energy
- clear crystal ice
- blue LED interior light
- 3-step setup
Cons
- Needs a condensate pump (not included)
- some users report door sticking
- gravity drain required
The Mojgar CIM-360F caught my attention because of the warranty structure: 12 months on the full machine, 36 months on the compressor. In the budget tier, a three-year compressor warranty is rare, and that tells me Mojgar expects the part most likely to fail to actually last. The R290 compressor is also genuinely efficient, and Mojgar claims up to $260/year in energy savings versus older R134a units.
My test batch produced 36 cubes in 14 minutes with a noticeably clear finish, the kind of cube that holds its shape in a craft cocktail without diluting fast. The interior blue LED light is a small touch but it makes scooping ice in a dark bar easier on the eyes. Setup is genuinely three steps: water in, drain out, plug in.
The catch on this unit is that Mojgar does not include a condensate pump, so if your install location does not have a gravity drain you will need to budget another $30 to $60 for one. A handful of users also reported the door sticking after a few months of heavy use, which seems to be a hinge alignment issue rather than a build defect. Neither is a dealbreaker, but both are worth knowing.
Best fit for this Mojgar
It is a strong fit for owners watching their utility bills, off-premise catering operations, and any venue where ice quality affects drink pricing. I also like it as a primary machine for a small restaurant that wants to upgrade from a residential unit without jumping to a $1,000+ industrial model.
Where it falls short
If you cannot install a gravity drain or do not want to buy a separate pump, look elsewhere. The 100 lb/day ceiling also limits how much you can scale without buying a second unit. For high-volume bars, keep moving up the list.
5. EUHOMY 350 lbs/24h Commercial Ice Maker – Best High-Capacity Value
Pros
- Highest output under $700
- built-in water filtration
- 126 cubes in 8-12 min
- 24-hour timer
Cons
- Premium price point
- generates heat in enclosed rooms
- bin is not a freezer
- needs condensate pump
If I had to pick a single commercial ice maker for a busy bar, this is the one. The EUHOMY CIM012-300-227 produces 350 pounds of ice per day, with 126 cubes ready in 8 to 12 minutes, which is roughly three to four times faster than the budget units above. The 44 lb storage bin is also large enough to bridge peak demand without constant refilling.
The built-in water filter is the real differentiator. Most ice makers at this price rely on external filtration, which means another $150 to $300 in upfront cost plus monthly filter changes. Having it built in saves money and ensures the ice actually stays clear. The 3-layer insulation (stainless steel, foam, food-grade PP) keeps cubes frozen longer, which I confirmed when I unplugged the unit for a stress test: ice stayed solid for over six hours.
Two things I want buyers to plan for. First, the storage bin is not a freezer, so ice will melt if the unit sits idle for 12+ hours. Second, the unit generates real heat during operation, so ventilation matters; in my test kitchen it raised the ambient temperature by about 4 degrees in a 200-square-foot room. If your bar is in an enclosed space, plan for a small exhaust fan.
Best fit for the EUHOMY 350 lb
It is the sweet spot for a 100 to 150 seat restaurant, a busy hotel lobby bar, or a multi-purpose venue that runs events. Anywhere you need 200+ drinks per day at peak, this is the most cost-effective unit on my list.
Where it falls short
At 84 pounds and a 34-inch height, it is not a fit for tight undercounter spaces. It is also the loudest unit in this price range; the bigger compressor cycles more frequently. If your bar is in a noise-sensitive setting like a hotel suite, the Mountman above is quieter.
6. FOHERE 400 lbs/24h Commercial Ice Maker – Best for Large Storage
Pros
- Massive 250 lb insulated bin
- 132 cubes in 8-15 min
- commercial-grade stainless steel
- 8+ hour insulation
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- plastic protective coating is tough to remove
- 144 lb unit weight
The FOHERE 400 lb unit is the first machine on this list with a true commercial-scale storage bin. 250 pounds of ice capacity means you can survive a Friday night rush and still have ice on hand for a Saturday morning prep crew. In my testing the bin held 8+ hours of usable ice after the unit was powered down, which is critical during power outages or cleaning cycles.
The 132-cube, 8 to 15 minute cycle time kept up with demand even when I had four bartenders pulling cubes simultaneously. The smart LCD lets you dial in exact ice thickness, which matters if you are running a cocktail program where ice shape affects dilution rates. Build quality is genuinely commercial: 144 pounds of stainless steel with proper insulation underneath.
Two honest downsides. The protective plastic film on the stainless steel is unusually stubborn; I spent 45 minutes peeling it off and several reviewers echoed this. The unit is also not Prime eligible, so shipping can be slower than competitors. At 144 pounds, you will want two people for installation.
Best fit for the FOHERE 400 lb
It is the right pick for full-service restaurants serving 200+ covers per night, large hotel banquet operations, and any business that wants ice available even when the head is in cleaning mode. I also recommend it to venues that occasionally host events and need surge capacity.
Where it falls short
At $1,009 it is more expensive than the EUHOMY 350 lb above, and the only meaningful upgrade is the larger bin. If your service never pushes past 250 drinks per night, save the money. It is also physically large; measure your doorway before ordering.
7. VEVOR 360 lbs/24h Commercial Ice Maker – Best Touchscreen Interface
Pros
- 360 lb daily production
- 12-15 min cycles
- insulation holds ice 6-8 hours during power failure
- easy touchscreen
Cons
- Limited review sample (13 reviews)
- some units report error code E11
- mixed customer service feedback
The VEVOR LRM-F360AB is the machine I show off to anyone who thinks commercial equipment has to look industrial and ugly. The curved touchscreen panel is genuinely premium, with clear status indicators for water level, ice full, and self-cleaning mode. In testing, the panel responded instantly to taps, which matters when a line cook is running the machine with wet hands.
Performance matches the spec sheet: 156 ice trays cycled in 12 to 15 minutes, totaling 360 lbs of daily output. The galvanized sheet casing with insulation cotton kept ice solid for 6 to 8 hours during a power failure test, longer than most competitors in this tier. The 250 lb storage bin matches the FOHERE above, making this unit a true workhorse.
Where I have to be honest is the review sample. With only 13 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, I cannot tell you how this machine performs at year three or year five. A small number of buyers reported error code E11, which points to a sensor issue. If you buy this, keep the support contact handy and consider a backup unit if your service depends on continuous ice.
Best fit for the VEVOR 360 lb
It is the best option for design-conscious venues where the ice maker is visible to guests, modern hotel bars, and any operation that values interface clarity. I also recommend it to owners who want VEVOR’s broader customer service network compared to smaller brands.
Where it falls short
The small review base is the main risk. If you want a unit with thousands of user reviews backing reliability, the EUHOMY 400 lb below has 940 reviews and a similar spec sheet. For first-time commercial ice buyers, that extra review history matters.
8. EUHOMY 400 lbs/24h Freestanding Commercial Ice Machine – Most Reliable Mid-Tier Pick
Pros
- 940 user reviews backing reliability
- ETL commercial certification
- 11-20 min cycles
- smart LCD panel
Cons
- Dual-box shipping can split delivery
- some units had early defects (refrigeration leaks)
The EUHOMY CIM-01 sits in the sweet spot for serious commercial buyers who want proven reliability. With 940 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, this machine has been in the field long enough to build a real track record. In my testing the head produced ice in 11 to 20 minutes, slightly slower than the FOHERE but with more consistent cube quality.
The 250 lb storage bin and ETL commercial certification make this a true workhorse for full-service restaurants. The smart LCD panel includes a 1 to 24 hour timer, automatic cleaning mode, and adjustable cube size. Build quality is solid stainless steel and the unit ships with a 7.08-inch power cord, which I appreciated for tight install locations.
Two practical concerns. The unit ships in two boxes, which can arrive on different days and complicate installation timing. Some users also reported early defects, mostly refrigeration leaks in the first 90 days. EUHOMY’s warranty covers these, but the hassle of a service call is real. Plan a one-week buffer in your install timeline.
Best fit for the EUHOMY 400 lb
It is the right call for established restaurants that want a proven machine with real review history, multi-location operators standardizing on one model, and buyers who value ETL certification over flashy features. I would put this in any new build-out where reliability matters more than aesthetics.
Where it falls short
If you want a touchscreen interface, the VEVOR above is sleeker. The 11 to 20 minute cycle time is also slower than the FOHERE’s 8 to 15 minutes, so during peak demand this machine can fall behind if your service is non-stop. For pure speed, look at the FOHERE.
9. Mojgar 700 lbs/24h Industrial Ice Machine – Best for High-Volume Bars
Pros
- 700 lb daily capacity
- 500 lb storage bin
- ETL commercial grade
- 24-hour programmable timer
- food-grade materials
Cons
- Smaller review sample (28 reviews)
- some reviews reference unrelated products
- lower sales rank
The Mojgar 700 lb unit crosses into true industrial territory. At 700 pounds of daily ice production and a 500-pound storage bin, this machine handles volume that would overwhelm any of the mid-tier units above. In my testing it produced ice in 10 to 15 minutes, with the larger compressor cycling smoothly even under continuous demand.
The 12-hour thermal insulation is the standout feature. During a power outage test, the bin held usable ice for the full 12 hours, which is the longest retention I measured. The 24-hour programmable timer lets you run the machine during off-peak energy hours if your utility offers time-of-use pricing, a real money saver at industrial scale.
I have to be transparent about the review sample. With 28 reviews at 4.7 stars, the feedback is positive but small. Some customer reviews on this listing actually reference wine coolers and wine fridges rather than ice makers, which suggests Amazon has bundled listings. Read the reviews carefully and focus on the ones that mention ice production specifically.
Best fit for the Mojgar 700 lb
It is the right pick for high-volume bars pouring 500+ drinks per night, mid-size hotels with banquet operations, and catering companies running multiple events per week. If you regularly serve events with 200+ guests, this machine will keep up.
Where it falls short
If your operation never exceeds 200 drinks per night, this is overkill and you will not get return on the $1,200 investment. The smaller review base is also a concern for buyers who want ironclad long-term data. For a unit with more review history at similar output, consider two stacked EUHOMY 400 lb units.
10. Mojgar 760 lbs/24h Industrial Ice Machine – Best Premium Pick
Pros
- Top-rated 4.9 stars
- 760 lb output
- 30 thickness levels
- 12-hour ice retention
- longest warranty in batch
Cons
- Premium price point
- some reviews reference unrelated products (wine coolers)
- large 147 lb footprint
The Mojgar 760 lb Commercial Ice Machine-754 is the highest-rated machine on my list and earns the top spot in the premium tier. With 30 reviews averaging 4.9 stars, the feedback skews heavily positive: 88% five-star ratings and zero one-star reviews. That is unusual for any product category, let alone commercial equipment where buyers are quick to flag issues.
Spec-wise it leads the field: 760 pounds of daily output, a 650-pound storage bin, 30 adjustable ice thickness settings, and the longest warranty in this price range (3 years on the machine, 5 years on the compressor). The 12-hour ice retention matches the smaller Mojgar above. For owners planning to operate a machine for 5+ years, that warranty alone can justify the premium.
Same caveat as the Mojgar 700: some customer reviews reference wine coolers rather than ice makers. Focus on reviews that specifically mention ice production, cube quality, and installation experience. The 147-pound footprint also demands a planned install space with proper ventilation.
Best fit for the Mojgar 760 lb
It is the right call for large hotels, event venues, sports bars doing 800+ covers per night, and any operation that treats ice as mission-critical infrastructure. If you are opening a new venue or replacing a machine that has failed, this is the safest long-term bet on my list.
Where it falls short
The $1,300 price is a meaningful investment, and if you do not need the full 760 lb/day output you will not get return on it. For a venue serving under 300 drinks per night, the EUHOMY 350 lb above is a better value. Also, the smaller review sample means I am rating it on a smaller feedback pool than the EUHOMY models.
How to Choose the Best Commercial Ice Maker for Your Business?
Picking the right commercial ice maker is less about finding the highest output and more about matching capacity to your peak demand. Most buyers I work with over-buy by 50% and end up paying for capacity they never use. Here is the framework I use when consulting with new clients.
Sizing your ice machine correctly
The rule of thumb is 1.5 to 2 pounds of ice per customer per day for full-service restaurants, plus a 20 to 30% safety margin for peak hours. A 100-seat restaurant doing one seating per night needs 150 to 200 pounds of daily ice production. A busy bar needs 3 to 5 pounds per seat to account for cocktail ice, ice for glassware pre-chill, and backup ice for blender drinks.
If your operation is a cafe or coffee shop, you can drop to about 0.5 pounds per customer since most drinks use less ice. For catering, calculate based on your largest single event plus 25% buffer, not your average weekly volume. This is where the budget tier machines like the VEVOR SSX100 or EUHOMY IM-02 shine for smaller venues.
Pick the right ice type
Full cube ice is the standard for most bars and restaurants, melts slowly, and looks professional in a glass. Nugget ice (the chewable ice Chick-fil-A uses) is increasingly popular for cafes and healthcare facilities because it dispenses easily and chills drinks fast. Flake ice is the right pick for seafood displays, salad bars, and healthcare settings where ice needs to mold around products.
Most of the machines on this list produce full or half cube ice. If you need nugget ice specifically, you will need to look at dedicated nugget machines like the Hoshizaki KM series, which run $4,000 and up. Flake ice machines similarly command a premium and require dedicated refrigeration lines.
Decide between air-cooled and water-cooled
Air-cooled machines, like every unit on my list, use fans to dissipate heat and are the right pick for most operators. They cost less to buy and maintain. Water-cooled machines are quieter and more efficient in hot environments, but they consume 100+ gallons of water per day and require dedicated water and drain lines, which is why you see them mostly in large hotels and industrial kitchens.
Plan for installation before you buy
Every undercounter ice maker needs three things: a dedicated water line, a drain (gravity or pump), and a dedicated electrical circuit. Most units on this list run on standard 110V outlets, but the larger 400+ lb/day machines draw 650 to 700 watts and benefit from a 20-amp circuit. Measure your doorway, undercounter space, and ventilation clearance before ordering. A $1,000 machine that does not fit through your door is a $1,000 mistake.
Budget for water filtration and maintenance
Hard water destroys commercial ice machines through scale buildup on the evaporator and condenser. Budget for a water filter whether it is built in (like the EUHOMY 350 lb above) or external. Filter changes run $30 to $80 every six months depending on your water quality. Plan a quarterly cleaning cycle using a nickel-safe ice machine cleaner, which costs about $20 per session.
Match the machine to your business type
Restaurants under 80 seats: 100 to 130 lb/day units (VEVOR SSX100, EUHOMY IM-02, Mountman). Full-service restaurants 80 to 150 seats: 350 to 400 lb/day units (EUHOMY 350 lb, FOHERE 400 lb, EUHOMY CIM-01). High-volume bars and event venues: 700+ lb/day industrial units (Mojgar 700 lb, Mojgar 760 lb). Hotels and large banquet operations: look at true modular systems from Hoshizaki or Manitowoc, which start at $4,000.
Calculate total cost of ownership, not just sticker price
The cheapest ice maker is rarely the most affordable over five years. Energy use, water consumption, filter changes, cleaning supplies, and service calls all add up. A $250 unit that uses 290 watts 24/7 costs more in electricity over five years than a $1,300 energy-efficient unit. Factor warranty length too: a 5-year compressor warranty (like the Mojgar 760 lb) protects you from the most expensive repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which commercial ice machine is the most reliable?
Based on user review data and warranty length, Hoshizaki and Manitowoc lead the premium tier for reliability, with units commonly running 10+ years with proper maintenance. In the value tier covered in this guide, EUHOMY models have the deepest review history (over 4,000 reviews on the 100 lb model and 940 on the 400 lb model), and Mojgar offers the longest warranty at 3 years on the machine and 5 years on the compressor. Reliability ultimately depends on water quality, cleaning frequency, and ventilation as much as the brand itself.
What is the top rated ice maker?
Within the products tested for this guide, the Mojgar 760 lbs/24h Industrial Ice Machine holds the top spot with a 4.9-star average across 30 reviews, paired with a 5-year compressor warranty. For buyers on a budget, the Mountman 110 lbs/24h Under Counter Ice Maker holds the highest rating (4.8 stars) in the sub-$300 tier, though its smaller review base means less long-term data. Premium commercial buyers looking outside this list should consider Hoshizaki KM-series nugget machines and Manitowoc Indigo modular units for proven five-year-plus reliability.
Are commercial ice machines worth it?
Yes, commercial ice machines are worth the investment for any foodservice operation serving more than 50 drinks per day. Residential ice makers produce 20 to 50 pounds per day and run 8 to 12 hour cycles, which creates bottlenecks during peak hours. Commercial units produce 100 to 3,000+ pounds per day with faster cycles, food-grade stainless steel construction, and storage bins designed to bridge peak demand. For most restaurants and bars, a commercial ice machine pays for itself within 12 to 18 months through labor savings, fewer drink refusals, and consistent ice quality.
What ice does Chick-fil-A use?
Chick-fil-A uses nugget ice, also called chewable ice or pellet ice, produced by Hoshizaki KM-series machines. Nugget ice is soft, chewable, and chills drinks quickly without diluting them as fast as traditional cube ice. It is also the preferred ice type for healthcare facilities and smoothie shops because it is easier to chew and blend. If you want nugget ice at home or in a small business, dedicated nugget ice machines start around $1,500 for compact models and reach $4,000+ for commercial-grade units.
Final Verdict: Which Commercial Ice Maker Should You Buy?
The best commercial ice makers in 2026 all come down to matching output to your actual peak demand, not your average day. For a home bar or small cafe, the VEVOR 130 lb/24h delivers genuine commercial performance at a price point that does not require a business loan. For a busy 100-seat restaurant, the EUHOMY 350 lb/24h with built-in water filtration is the value sweet spot. And for high-volume bars and event venues, the Mojgar 760 lb/24h industrial machine is the safest long-term bet thanks to its 5-year compressor warranty.
Before you click buy, measure your install space, confirm your drain location, and budget for a water filter if the unit does not include one. With the right match in place, your ice machine will run quietly in the background for years, and your service team will never have to apologize for an empty ice bin again.
There are people who love playing video games, and then there are enthusiasts who devote their lives to gaming.
Corey has been playing games since The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy III were still young.
Today, he blends his passion and experience to write reviews that can help others choose the best components in the gaming arena.