For enthusiasts of Sonic's nugget ice, the GE Opal has been a popular choice, often costing over $500 to replicate that experience at home. However, there's another type of ice gaining attention: bullet ice. Slightly larger than nugget ice, which is also known as pebble ice, bullet ice is shaped like half a cylinder. Similar to nugget ice, it offers a softer texture for chewing, and some argue its increased surface area cools beverages faster than traditional ice cubes.
Why Choose Bullet Ice Makers?
To keep your drinks chilled and provide endless ice for munching, we've compiled a list of top-selling countertop bullet ice machines available on Amazon, all under $100. Each machine can produce nine ice cubes in just six minutes and generate up to twenty-six pounds of ice within 24 hours. Most models include self-cleaning or auto-cleaning functions and operate easily with the push of a button. If you're an ice lover, these affordable options are ideal for use in campers or on your kitchen counter year-round.
1. Amazon: Compact and Self-Cleaning Machine
This adorable retro-styled ice machine adds a splash of color to any kitchen with its variety of hues. It features a 2-liter tank that produces two sizes of bullet ice—small and large—and includes a removable 2.6-pound basket for easy ice transport.
Price: $80 at Amazon
2. Amazon: Portable Ice Maker with Handle
Perfect for smaller kitchens, this portable machine has a 1.2-liter water tank and can hold up to 1.3 pounds of ice at a time. It includes an easy self-cleaning function and a flashing "add water" light to ensure continuous ice production.
Promising review: "I have always wanted nugget ice like sonic or chick fil a, but I refuse to spend the $ for the nugget machine, we got this one, and while it makes bullet ice, it is more nugget-like consistency. Great for munching. My son decided to make Coke Zero ice, and it was rather easy to clean the machine afterwards. We like it so much, we are going to even take it camping with us." — Raymond GutierrezPrice: $70 at Amazon
3. Amazon: Low-Noise Machine
If you love the classic aqua color, you'll appreciate this compact and easy-to-use ice machine, also available in black and silver. With a 1.2-liter tank and weighing under 15 pounds, it's simple to operate and store.
Promising review: "Very quiet when running, makes bullet ice cubes. Love this product. have pool parties and bbq’s and this has helped tremendously, don’t have to keep buying more ice, just make my own. I love it ." — Christine VancleavePrice: $70 at Amazon
4. Amazon: Speedy Machine with Carrying Handle
Featuring a 1.5-liter tank, this machine offers a balanced size—not too big or too small. It produces two ice sizes with a button press and includes a handy handle for enhanced portability.
Promising review: "I love this little ice maker, it's so quick to make ice you put water in you can choose some large or small cubes and a it's surprising how fast it makes ice. I take the ice out and put it in a bowl in the freezer. As my freezer doesn't have an ice maker." — Dave CPrice: $70 at Amazon
5. Amazon: Frigidaire Brand Option
For those who trust and own Frigidaire appliances, this sleek ice maker is a great addition. It holds nearly two pounds of ice at once, making it suitable for larger families or social gatherings.
Promising review: "The perfect bullet ice maker! This icemaker is awesome. Super easy and very quick. Not too much noise, but sometimes I forget it's on until it kicks the ice out. I don't know why it took me so long to get one, but I am not going another year without proper ice!! Totally recommend! And by my fav, Frigidaire!" — GirliebirdPrice: $77 at Amazon
6. Amazon: Portable Machine with Easy-Access Scoop
This countertop machine features an easy-grab handle bucket for convenient ice retrieval. It has a 1.2-liter water tank, holds 1.3 pounds of ice, and includes indicator lights, an automatic self-cleaning function, and a low-noise design.
Promising review: "Buying a table top ice machine was one of the best purchases I’ve made in a long time! I love my drinks COLD and this machine makes ice as quickly as I drink it. I especially like the taste because the ice is made fresh and and I use my favorite bottled waters to make it. It also encourages me to drink more water as well which is a freakin’ miracle!" — Dr. Nancy M. GruberPrice: $72 at Amazon
The original version of this story was published on HuffPost at an earlier date.
