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Why Nugget Ice Makers are So Expensive

This article will provide a complete guide on What Makes a Nugget Ice Maker Costly? Is the Sonic Ice Maker Worth buying? & Best Affordable Alternatives.

A layer of flaked ice makes every drink better because it is chewier. And sometimes a refined taste can cost a bit?. To solve this price mystery, we will answer your every possible question and completely guide you on “What makes a nugget ice maker so expensive?”.

Several factors make a nugget ice maker machine expensive, including the inner complex technology, size, and overall design. The technical setup and a built-in drain pump with a sturdy base foundation make a commercial nugget ice maker a little costly.

Even with a hefty tag, the love of sonic frost endures us to crave even more. Have a complete rundown on its alternative and know whether it is worth your money!

Six Reasons Why Nugget Ice Maker Are Expensive.

The top culprit here is the “Quality.” A refined taste comes at a little fortune. Here are the common reasons that cause us to raise an eyebrow at its cost.

1. Cutting Edge Technology.

The technical setup like in-built water filters, self-cleaning cycles, and automatic overflow controls are second to none and sophisticated.

The innovative process that gives you snowflake-like ice within minutes also contributes to the price factor. 

The smart technology of auger is the main reason for chewier and transparent ice. And that also impacts the expenditure. 

2. Convenient Size.

Pallet frost machines are portable and easy to move. There is a rule of thumb; the bigger size will cost more. 

  • A portable sonic ice maker or home can fit on any countertop and is lightweight.
  • A regular size instant forest maker can be equipped for your cabinet.

Due to their small size, they are widely known as undercounter ice makers. KoolMore is the best selling under the counter frost maker on Amazon. Frigidaire ice makers are the smallest size option available in the market right now.

3. Hefty Production.

Countertop models can produce 26-40 Lbs, and freestanding can have 50-190 Lbs of pallet frost within a day. That makes it so convenient for commercial use. 

It is impossible to get that much product from the usual home freezer. So, high efficiency is equal to a high price.

4. Quality Material.

Nobody wants to spend more on cheap products. To ensure the insulation for years, the exterior is made up of the finest stainless steel. 

Internal components are also made up of top-quality material only.

5. Convenience Handling.

The next-gen device. With one-click control, you can set up the hours, quantity, and size of chunks. Some of the latest modules of the GE Opal ice maker also come with BlueTooth connectivity.

Imagine being able to control it while lying on the couch! All prayers responded.

6. Multipurpose Usage.

It is designed for multipurpose usage. Pallet Machines will also cost more from soaking up the flavors or more storage in commercial pallets.

So, now we are done with the factors determining the high cost but are they worth it?

Is it worth buying an expensive nugget ice maker? The high price justifies it!

Well, that depends on you. There are a lot of benefits of having it compared to the other side. The foremost benefit is it has a quick nugget ice supply with just one click. 


It is better to use sonic than regular ice in your drinks because it melts slower. The best part is it can soak all the flavor from any liquid.

After going through many Nugget Ice maker reviews and user experience, We can safely conclude that they are worth it, even on extra cash than regular ice maker costs.

Done with the factors that cause. Fancy sonic ice, but I don’t want to spend much. Have a quick rundown on its alternative best cheap and pocket-friendly options.

Best Inexpensive Nugget Ice Maker.

1. Igloo Self-Cleaning– Best Portable.

If you want to go for “One size fits all,” it is the best option to make a sonic forest at home. It is highly efficient and requires no installation process. All you need to do is “plug in,” and Voila!.

  • Best Inexpensive and Portable.
  • Suitable for Small Families.
  • It can make up 26Lbs Sonic frost.
Are Expensive Nugget Ice Makers Worth Your Money?

It takes only 7 minutes to prepare the first batch. The only issue is that its storage bin is too small to accommodate a large family.


2. Crownfull Countertop – Best Budget-Friendly.

Want to enjoy luxury at the most affordable price. Go for it right now. It can make nine ballet of frost within the first seven minutes. The 0.8L storage bucket is enough to go for a whole night or a small party. 

  • It is designed for fast production.
  • Makes Chewable bullet ice.
  • Portable and Convenient.
Best Budget-Friendly.

It is the best alternative to a nugget ice maker. Just fill the savior daily and have your fair supply of sonic ice. The only problem is its ice melts faster, and the device gets hot often.


3. NewAir Countertop – Best for Big Families.

If you want to have the best inexpensive sonic ice made for a big family, you have the best option available at your fingertips. It requires no plumbing and is very convenient to operate. 

The bucket keeps the frost solid for hours without melting it when it comes to storage. It can make 40Lbs per day.

  • Slow melting clear ice.
  • Convenient size and easy to move.
  • Eye-catchy Design.
Best for Big Families.

It makes moderate size floaty frost to chill your special drinks and make them less watery.

Before buying this product myself, I always wondered what kind of machine does Sonic use? So, here’s the solved riddle:

What kind of ice maker does Sonic use?

The most commonly used is GE Opal Countertop Nugget Ice Maker on a commercial scale.

For regular home bars and small eateries, Qualeben is the best option.

As for me, I have a Samsung sonic frost making machine for me. So, click here if you’re further going to search “why my Samsung ice maker is not working” We got you already!

Final Thoughts.

All the best things are expensive, rightfully, and this is the case here. The cutting edge technology, high-quality material and self-cleaning cycle make nuggets ice makers so expensive. The Brand and Demand ratio heavily impacts the price factor.