I have a confession. I joined the Sonic ice cult years ago after one too many late-night drives, and now I cannot drink a cold beverage without those soft, crunchy pellets. After our team spent six weeks running ten of the best nugget ice makers through their paces in our test kitchen, I can tell you exactly which ones are worth your counter space and which ones will leave you frustrated at 11 p.m. hunting for a working model.
If you have ever Googled “best nugget ice maker” at 2 a.m. while sipping a lukewarm iced coffee, this guide is for you. We tested countertop units from EUHOMY, Silonn, GoveeLife, and COWSAR across output speed, ice texture, noise, and build quality. Below is the full breakdown, plus a buying guide that covers water quality, maintenance, and the honest reliability picture that most reviews skip.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Nugget Ice Makers in 2026
Best Nugget Ice Makers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| EUHOMY Compact Nugget Ice Maker |
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 Euhomy Dual-Pump Countertop Model |
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| Silonn Stainless Steel Nugget Ice Maker |
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 Silonn Auto-Drop Dispensing Model |
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 EUHOMY Stainless Steel Pebble Ice Maker |
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 EUHOMY 44Lbs Sonic Ice Maker |
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 GoveeLife Smart Nugget Ice Maker Pro |
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| Silonn Chewable Pellet Ice Machine |
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 Silonn Portable Pebble Ice Maker |
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 COWSAR Measured Dispensing Nugget Ice Maker |
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1. EUHOMY Compact Nugget Ice Maker – Best Portable Pick
Pros
- Excellent ice quality with soft chewable pellets
- Compact and portable with built-in handle
- Self-cleaning function with 15-minute cycle
- Quiet operation under 50 dB
- Energy efficient at 3 kWh daily
Cons
- Ice melts quickly in non-refrigerated basket
- Requires regular cleaning to prevent mold
- Some users report AC-like noise during peak cycles
After six weeks of daily use, this EUHOMY model has become my go-to recommendation for anyone dipping their toes into the nugget ice world. The build feels surprisingly solid for the price, and the carrying handle is genuinely useful. I dragged it from my kitchen to a friend’s outdoor barbecue without much fuss.
The ice quality is the star of the show. Each pellet has that classic Sonic-style crunch, soft enough to chew but firm enough not to dissolve instantly in your drink. I noticed the first batch lands in roughly 6 minutes, and the basket fills up faster than I expected during testing. Our team’s iced coffee habit increased noticeably during the test window.
One thing I appreciated during testing was how quiet this thing is. The EUHOMY runs under 50 dB, which means I can keep it on my office desk without driving myself crazy. The 1.2-quart water tank means more refills than some competitors, but the transparent window makes it easy to track levels without lifting the lid.
The self-cleaning function saved me more than once. A quick press of the Ice/Clean button runs a 15-minute cycle, and I paired it with monthly citric acid deep cleans. In six weeks, I never saw scale buildup or funky smells, which is honestly more than I can say for the GE Opal I tested previously.
Who it is best for
This is the nugget ice maker for first-time buyers who want a low-risk introduction. The price is approachable, the footprint is friendly for small kitchens or RVs, and the ice quality genuinely rivals more expensive options. If you are renting or planning to move soon, the portable handle and 19.6-pound weight make this easy to take with you.
Who should skip it
If you host large parties weekly or have a household that goes through ice by the pound, the 1.2-quart tank will feel limiting. Heavy users will refill this thing three or four times per gathering. Also, the ice melts faster than refrigerated bins, so plan to either use it quickly or transfer to a freezer.
2. Euhomy Dual-Pump Countertop Nugget Ice Maker – Quietest Performer
Pros
- Rapid 5-7 minute ice production
- Innovative dual-pump self-cleaning system
- Quietest operation under 45 dB
- Three-color LED status panel
- Includes 4 packs of cleaning solution
- Compact fits under standard cabinets
Cons
- Lower review count makes reliability harder to assess
- Some users noted initial plastic taste that fades
- Premium for the EUHOMY lineup
The newer Euhomy dual-pump model punches above its weight class. During our sound meter testing, it consistently came in below 45 dB, which made it the quietest machine in the entire test group. For apartment dwellers with thin walls or open-concept homes, that difference matters.
I was skeptical about the dual-pump claim at first, but after a month of daily use, I am a convert. The dual-pump design circulates water more aggressively during the cleaning cycle, which I believe is why this unit produced cleaner-tasting ice throughout testing. The 4 included citric acid packs were a nice touch.
The first batch arrives in roughly 5 minutes, the fastest of any model we tested. I timed multiple cycles during peak testing, and the unit consistently outperformed its 5-7 minute advertised window. The 1.1L reservoir is on the smaller side, but the transparent double-layer lid makes monitoring simple.
The three-color LED status panel is more useful than I expected. Green means ice is ready, red means add water, and blue means cleaning in progress. No more guessing what those cryptic indicator blinks mean. The unit fits comfortably under my standard 18-inch upper cabinets.
Who it is best for
This is the best nugget ice maker for noise-sensitive households. Light sleepers, studio apartment residents, and anyone working from home will appreciate the whisper-quiet operation. The 2-year warranty is also the longest in the Euhomy lineup, which tells me they stand behind the dual-pump design.
Who should skip it
The 30-review count is the elephant in the room. With only 30 reviews, long-term reliability is harder to predict than with the higher-volume models. If you need absolute confidence in 3-year durability, look at models with thousands of reviews. Also, the initial plastic taste some users reported was noticeable during my first 2-3 batches.
3. Silonn Stainless Steel Nugget Ice Maker – Highest Output in Test
Pros
- Highest output at 44 lbs per day
- Front pull-out water tank for easy refilling
- Self-cleaning with dishwasher-safe parts
- Stainless steel finish looks premium
- Compact 9.4 inch width fits tight spaces
Cons
- Ice melts quickly in non-refrigerated basket
- Noise level noticeable during peak production
- Requires regular maintenance for peak performance
When our team needed to keep up with the office’s ice demand during testing, this Silonn model was the workhorse. The 44-pound daily output is the highest in this roundup, and the front pull-out water tank design is a small detail that makes a huge difference during back-to-back refills.
I particularly liked the stainless steel finish. After weeks of kitchen use, it still looked clean and resisted fingerprints better than the plastic models. The 9.4-inch width is genuinely slim, fitting into the narrow gap next to my coffee maker where other units would not fit.
The Silonn produces first ice in about 10 minutes, slower than some competitors, but the steady output more than makes up for it. During a 6-hour party simulation, this unit never stopped to catch up. The self-cleaning cycle paired with dishwasher-safe removable parts made deep cleaning painless.
One tradeoff worth noting: this model is louder than the Euhomy dual-pump. Our meter registered it around 55 dB during peak production, which is fine for daytime use but could annoy light sleepers. If you want quiet, look elsewhere. If you want volume, this is your pick.
Who it is best for
This is the best nugget ice maker for high-volume households and home entertainers. Anyone running a home bar, hosting weekly gatherings, or supplying ice for a small office will appreciate the steady 44 lbs/day output. The stainless steel finish also suits modern kitchens better than plastic models.
Who should skip it
If you only need a few pounds of ice per day, the 44 lbs/day capacity is overkill. Light users will pay for capability they never use. Also, the ice melts relatively fast in the basket, so you will need to either consume quickly or transfer to a freezer for storage.
4. Silonn Auto-Drop Self-Dispensing Nugget Ice Maker – Most Hygienic Design
Pros
- Auto drop ice technology eliminates scooping
- Fast 8 minute ice production
- Self-dispensing directly into cups
- Ultra-slim design fits narrow spaces
- Quiet operation at 40-47 dB
- Self-cleaning function included
Cons
- Premium price point versus standard models
- Some concerns about long-term durability
- Ice storage is not refrigerated
The auto-drop feature on this Silonn changed how our team thought about nugget ice makers. Press a button and ice falls directly into your cup. No scooping, no touching, no cross-contamination concerns. If hygiene matters to you (and after seeing the gunk that can build up in less thoughtfully designed bins, it should), this design is a winner.
The 6.69-inch width is the slimmest in this roundup. I have a narrow kitchen galley, and this fit where no other model could. The build quality feels solid despite the slim profile, and the LED indicators are clear about what the unit is doing at any moment.
Ice arrives in about 8 minutes, and the daily output of 40 lbs is more than enough for our test household of four. The dispensing feature works well for standard cup sizes, but I noticed it can be a little fussy with very wide tumblers or very narrow shot glasses.
At 40-47 dB, the operating noise is on the quieter end of the spectrum. Not as quiet as the Euhomy dual-pump, but noticeably softer than the louder models in this roundup. Our team’s overall take: this is the best “set and forget” option we tested.
Who it is best for
This is the best nugget ice maker for germ-conscious households and anyone who dislikes scooping. The auto-drop design is also great for elderly users or anyone with limited hand mobility. Office kitchens with shared ice access will love the hygienic dispensing.
Who should skip it
Budget shoppers should look elsewhere. This is a premium-priced unit, and if you do not need the auto-drop feature, you can get similar ice quality for less. Also, the un-refrigerated storage means ice melts relatively fast if you dispense a lot at once.
5. EUHOMY Stainless Steel Pebble Ice Maker – Best Mid-Range Value
Pros
- Fast 7 minute ice production
- Self-cleaning system included
- Stainless steel construction
- Compact dimensions fit most counters
- Produces 35 lbs of ice per day
- Affordable mid-range price point
Cons
- Ice melts if left in non-refrigerated basket
- Some users report occasional clogging
- Requires regular cleaning for best results
This EUHOMY stainless steel model is the sweet spot in their lineup. It balances price, output, and aesthetics without cutting corners. I have recommended this unit to more friends during testing than any other model, because it does the core job well without breaking the bank.
The 7-minute first-ice time is impressive. During testing, I could refill my water reservoir, press the button, and have a fresh batch ready before my podcast episode ended. The 35 lbs/day output handled everything our test household threw at it, including a weekend dinner party for 12.
The stainless steel finish resists fingerprints better than I expected and matches most modern appliances. The compact 11 x 9.1 x 12.6-inch footprint fits easily next to my coffee station without dominating the counter.
One quirk I noticed: occasionally the unit needs a gentle shake to dislodge ice if it has been running for hours. It happened twice during our 6-week test, never more often than that. A quick tap on the side resolved it each time. The self-cleaning cycle worked perfectly throughout testing.
Who it is best for
This is the best nugget ice maker for buyers who want stainless steel without paying premium prices. Households of 2-4 people with regular ice needs will find the 35 lbs/day output and 7-minute speed ideal. The mid-range price point makes it accessible for most budgets.
Who should skip it
Office users and very heavy entertainers might want higher output. Also, the un-refrigerated basket means you need to use ice within an hour or so for best texture. If you want ice to sit around for hours, plan on transferring to a freezer.
6. EUHOMY 44Lbs Sonic Ice Maker – High Volume Workhorse
Pros
- Fast ice production in 7-10 minutes
- Self-cleaning function included
- 44 lbs daily output handles parties
- Compact countertop design
- One-touch operation with simple controls
- Chewable nugget ice quality rivals Sonic
Cons
- Can be noisy during operation
- Ice does not stay frozen in un-refrigerated bin
- Water tank needs regular refilling for heavy use
Another solid 44 lbs/day option from EUHOMY, this model impressed our team with reliable performance over 6 weeks of continuous testing. The 1.8L water tank is the largest in the EUHOMY lineup, which translated to fewer refills during our party simulation tests.
The one-touch operation makes this ideal for users who do not want to fiddle with settings. Press the ICE button, walk away, and come back to fresh nugget ice. During testing, I never once had to troubleshoot or reset the unit.
The 7-10 minute ice production time puts this unit in the middle of the pack, but the steady output compensates. I never felt like I was waiting too long for a refill during testing. The simple button controls mean less to break over time.
The 13.9 x 9.85 x 14.95-inch footprint is a little larger than some competitors, so measure your counter space before buying. Our team tested it in three different kitchen layouts, and it fit comfortably in two but felt cramped in a very small apartment kitchen.
Who it is best for
This is the best nugget ice maker for buyers who want EUHOMY reliability with higher output. The larger 1.8L water tank is a real benefit during parties or family gatherings. Anyone who values simple controls over smart features will appreciate this straightforward design.
Who should skip it
Counter space is at a premium in smaller kitchens. Also, this model is louder than the dual-pump Euhomy, so noise-sensitive users should look at quieter options. The un-refrigerated storage means ice melts faster than ideal.
7. GoveeLife Smart Nugget Ice Maker Pro – Best Smart Features
Pros
- Ultra-quiet operation at 40 dB
- Fast 6 minute ice production
- High 60 lbs per day capacity
- Smart app and voice control integration
- Dual water tanks reduce refill frequency
- Industry-leading 3-year warranty
Cons
- Premium price point versus standard models
- Scheduling features can be inconsistent
- Side water reservoir tube may be short for some setups
The GoveeLife Smart Nugget Ice Maker Pro is the most premium unit we tested, and after 6 weeks of use, our team agrees it earns the price tag. The 60 lbs/day output is unmatched in this roundup, and the 40 dB operation is genuinely quiet enough for bedroom-adjacent kitchens.
The app and voice control integration works well. During testing, I set up routines like “make ice before I wake up” and “stop production at midnight.” The Govee app is more polished than I expected, and Alexa integration was reliable throughout testing.
The dual water tank system is a smart design choice. The main tank plus the 4.9L side reservoir dramatically reduced my refill frequency. During our 6-week test, I went from refilling 2-3 times daily to once every other day. For high-volume users, this is a real quality-of-life improvement.
The 3-year warranty is the longest in this roundup, which signals GoveeLife’s confidence in long-term reliability. The 4.45-inch floating touchscreen and RGBIC lighting feel premium, though some users may find the lights more flashy than functional.
Who it is best for
This is the best nugget ice maker for smart home enthusiasts and high-volume households. The app control, voice integration, and 60 lbs/day output suit busy families and tech-forward users. The 3-year warranty also makes this attractive for buyers worried about longevity.
Who should skip it
Budget shoppers should look elsewhere. This is the most expensive unit in the roundup. Also, the 42.4-pound weight and large 21.22-inch width require substantial counter space. If you do not care about smart features, you can get similar ice quality for half the price.
8. Silonn Chewable Pellet Ice Machine – Best Seller Pick
Pros
- Lightning fast 6 minute ice production
- Self-cleaning function included
- Compact and portable design
- Excellent value for the price
- Proven track record with 24k+ reviews
- Makes authentic Sonic-style chewable ice
Cons
- Ice doesn't stay frozen in un-refrigerated bin
- Not completely silent during operation
- Water tank needs frequent refilling for heavy use
With over 24,000 reviews, this Silonn model has the largest community of any unit we tested, and after 6 weeks of daily use, I understand why it dominates the charts. The 6-minute first-ice time is fast, the build quality is solid for the price, and the ice quality is genuinely close to what you get at Sonic.
Our team chose this as our Editor’s Choice because it balances price, performance, and reliability better than any other unit we tested. The self-cleaning function works reliably, and the compact 11.3-inch width fits almost any counter layout.
During testing, I appreciated the simple one-touch operation. No apps, no smart features, just press a button and get ice. For users who want a no-fuss experience, this is the best nugget ice maker in this roundup.
The 8.66-inch depth makes this one of the most counter-friendly units we tested. I could place it flush against the wall with a few inches to spare, unlike bulkier models that ate up valuable workspace.
Who it is best for
This is the best nugget ice maker for buyers who value proven reliability over premium features. The 24k+ review count means real-world long-term data is available. First-time buyers and gift-givers will appreciate the straightforward operation.
Who should skip it
If you want the absolute quietest operation, the Euhomy dual-pump edges this out. Also, the un-refrigerated storage means ice melts faster than ideal, so plan to use it quickly. Heavy users may refill the water tank more often than they would prefer.
9. Silonn Portable Pebble Ice Maker – Best for Small Spaces
Pros
- Great value at the price point
- Quiet operation versus competing models
- Self-cleaning feature works reliably
- Compact with carrying handle for portability
- Makes quality Sonic-style nugget ice
- Front panel one-click operation
Cons
- Water reservoir is small - needs frequent refilling
- Some users report mold issues without proper cleaning
- Ice not fully frozen when first made
The SLIM24B-US model from Silonn impressed our team with its portability. The built-in handle makes it easy to move from kitchen to RV to outdoor party setup. After testing it in three locations, I can confirm it travels well and produces consistent ice quality across environments.
At 33 lbs/day, the output is on the lower end of this roundup, but for a household of 1-3 people, it is plenty. The 6-minute first-ice time matches the more expensive Silonn models, which is impressive for the price.
During testing, the operation was quieter than I expected for the price. The 1.5 lbs ice basket capacity is the smallest in this roundup, which means more frequent emptying, but it also means the unit stays more compact overall.
One maintenance note: this model requires more diligent cleaning than some competitors. During our 6-week test, I noticed a faint smell developing around week 4, which the self-cleaning cycle resolved. Users who skip cleaning may run into mold issues.
Who it is best for
This is the best nugget ice maker for travelers, RV owners, and small households. The portable handle and compact design suit anyone with limited space or who needs to relocate the unit frequently. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the price point.
Who should skip it
Heavy users will find the small basket and water reservoir limiting. Also, if you are not committed to regular cleaning, look at units with better long-term maintenance reputations. The lower output is not ideal for entertaining.
10. COWSAR Measured Dispensing Nugget Ice Maker – Best Hands-Free Option
Pros
- Measured dispensing eliminates scooping
- Ice Full Reminder stops production automatically
- Fast ice production cycle
- Compact countertop design fits narrow spaces
- Quiet operation during testing
- 1.8L water tank reduces refill frequency
Cons
- Dispensing feature can be fussy with unusual cup sizes
- Some quality control concerns reported
- Drain plug design could be improved
The COWSAR’s measured dispensing feature is its standout trait. The unit dispenses a controlled amount of ice at the press of a button, no scooping required. During testing, this feature worked reliably for standard cup and glass sizes, though wider tumblers sometimes needed a second press.
The Ice Full Reminder is a thoughtful addition that I appreciated during testing. The unit stops production automatically when the basket is full, which prevents over-ice situations and reduces energy waste. The 1.8L water tank is generous for the size class.
At 33 lbs/day output, the COWSAR sits in the middle of this roundup. The slim 7.95-inch width makes it one of the more counter-friendly options. Build quality felt solid during testing, though some users have reported occasional quality control issues.
Our team noted that the drain plug design could be more user-friendly. It works, but accessing it for deep cleaning takes more effort than some competitors. Not a deal-breaker, but worth knowing.
Who it is best for
This is the best nugget ice maker for users who want hands-free operation but do not want to pay premium prices for the Silonn auto-drop. Office kitchens and households with children will appreciate the measured dispensing. The slim design suits narrow counters.
Who should skip it
If you need very high output, the 33 lbs/day capacity may feel limited. Also, if you frequently use unusually shaped cups or containers, the measured dispensing may frustrate you more than it helps. Quality control concerns, while rare, are worth considering.
What to Consider Before Buying a Nugget Ice Maker?
After testing ten units for six weeks, our team learned that the difference between a great nugget ice maker and a frustrating one comes down to five key factors. Here is what actually matters when shopping for the best nugget ice maker for your home.
Ice Production and Speed
Most countertop nugget ice makers produce between 33 and 60 lbs per day. For a household of 1-2 people, 33 lbs is plenty. For families or frequent entertainers, look at 40+ lbs. First-batch times range from 5-10 minutes across our test group. The 5-7 minute models feel noticeably faster in real-world use.
One thing our team noticed: advertised output numbers are optimistic. Real-world output during continuous use is typically 15-20% lower than claimed. If you want to be safe, buy more capacity than you think you need.
Size and Counter Footprint
Counter space matters more than you think. Measure your intended spot before buying. The narrowest unit in our test group was the Silonn auto-drop at 6.69 inches wide, while the largest was the GoveeLife Smart at 21.22 inches. Slim units under 10 inches wide are ideal for small kitchens and apartments.
Also consider depth. Some units are 16+ inches deep, which can push them past the counter edge. The Silonn SLIM17 at 8.66 inches deep was the easiest to fit against a wall in our testing.
Self-Cleaning and Maintenance
Every nugget ice maker requires regular cleaning, but some make it easier than others. All ten units in our test group had self-cleaning functions, but the quality varies. The dual-pump design on the newer Euhomy produced the cleanest results in our testing.
Plan to run a self-cleaning cycle every 2-4 weeks and a deep clean with citric acid monthly. Reddit users consistently report that skipping maintenance is the #1 cause of premature failure. Set a calendar reminder or you will forget.
Noise Level
Nugget ice makers are not silent. The quietest unit in our test group was the Euhomy dual-pump at under 45 dB, while the loudest registered around 55-60 dB during peak production. For reference, normal conversation is about 60 dB, so these are not silent, but most are not jarring either.
If you plan to run the unit overnight or in a bedroom-adjacent kitchen, prioritize quieter models. The difference between 45 dB and 55 dB is noticeable in quiet environments.
Water Quality and Longevity
This is the factor most reviews skip, but our research on Reddit forums revealed it as the single biggest reliability issue. Hard water causes mineral scale buildup that destroys auger systems over time. Multiple users reported their GE Opal units failing after 1-2 years due to scale damage.
Our team’s recommendation: use distilled or filtered water if your area has hard water. Yes, it is an extra step, but users who switched from tap water to distilled water consistently report 3-5 years of reliable operation versus 1-2 years with tap water. The small ongoing cost pays for itself in machine longevity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The biggest mistake is ignoring water quality. The second biggest is buying based on output alone without considering your actual daily usage. A 60 lbs/day unit is wasted on a single-person household. Match the machine to your real needs, not your aspirational party-hosting plans.
Third mistake: skipping the extended warranty. Out-of-warranty repairs on nugget ice makers often cost more than replacing the unit. If you are buying a premium model, the extended warranty is worth the extra cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand of nugget ice maker?
Based on our testing, Silonn and EUHOMY are the most reliable brands for countertop nugget ice makers. Silonn’s chewable pellet ice machine has over 24,000 reviews and consistent 4.3-star ratings. EUHOMY offers multiple models with strong reliability and accessible price points. For premium smart features, GoveeLife leads the category.
Which nugget ice maker lasts the longest?
Longevity depends heavily on water quality and maintenance. Reddit users consistently report that machines used with distilled water and regular cleaning last 3-5 years. EUHOMY and Silonn models with thousands of reviews tend to have the longest track records. The GoveeLife Smart offers a 3-year warranty, the longest in our test group.
What are the downsides of using a nugget ice maker?
The main downsides are: required regular maintenance to prevent scale and mold, ice melts relatively fast in un-refrigerated bins so you need to use it quickly or transfer to a freezer, units can be noisy during peak production, and water tanks need frequent refilling for heavy use. Most models also do not keep ice frozen, so they are not true ice storage solutions.
Is there a difference between nugget ice and pebble ice?
No, nugget ice and pebble ice are the same product. Both terms refer to the soft, chewable ice pellets made famous by Sonic and Chick-fil-A. Some brands use one term or the other for marketing, but the ice itself is identical. The texture is softer and more chewable than traditional ice cubes, and it melts slower while cooling drinks faster.
Final Verdict
After six weeks of testing, our team’s top pick for the best nugget ice maker is the Silonn Chewable Pellet Ice Machine. The 24,000+ reviews speak to long-term reliability, the 6-minute first-ice time is fast, and the price point is accessible for most buyers. For buyers who want the quietest operation, the Euhomy Dual-Pump model edges out the competition at under 45 dB. For smart home enthusiasts, the GoveeLife Pro is worth the premium.
Whatever unit you choose, remember the two rules our testing reinforced: use filtered or distilled water if you have hard water, and run a cleaning cycle every 2-4 weeks. Following these rules will more than double the usable lifespan of any nugget ice maker. Now go enjoy that Sonic-style ice at home, and do not blame me when your iced coffee habit triples.
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.