10 Best Commercial Ice Machines 2026 in the United States

The Hoshizaki KM-231BAJ Crescent Cuber Ice Maker is designed for commercial use, particularly suitable for small bars, hotel lobbies, and office break rooms. It can produce approximately 213 lbs of crescent-shaped ice daily and has a built-in storage bin that holds up to 80 lbs of ice. This makes it a good fit for environments with moderate ice demand.

The machine is air-cooled and designed for undercounter installation, making it space-efficient and convenient for various setups. The CycleSaver design helps improve efficiency by reducing the number of cycles required to produce ice, and the EverCheck alert system simplifies maintenance by providing alerts for potential issues.

With a wattage of 8.4 kWh and a voltage requirement of 115v/60/1, it is relatively energy-efficient for its capacity. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, and the front in, front out airflow design allows for flexible installation.

The Scotsman Commercial Nugget Ice Maker (model HID312A-1) stands out as a robust option for businesses needing reliable ice production. With an impressive output of up to 260 pounds of nugget ice per day, it meets the demands of various commercial settings, such as restaurants or bars. The nugget ice type is particularly favored for its chewable texture, making it popular for beverages and food presentations.

One of its key strengths is the energy-efficient design. The air-cooled system not only enhances performance but also potentially reduces energy costs compared to less efficient models. Additionally, the touch-free infrared dispensing feature minimizes physical contact, which can help maintain hygiene and reduce wear and tear on the machine, leading to lower maintenance costs over time.

The machine is also designed with user convenience in mind, with a large 11-inch dispensing area that accommodates larger containers, and a USB port for easy software updates, ensuring it remains adaptable to changing needs. Its sealed, maintenance-free bearings and removable dust cover lower the frequency of service calls, making it a practical choice for busy environments. However, it is crucial to consider its size and weight. With dimensions of 24.38 inches deep, 16.25 inches wide, and a height of 35 inches, proper planning for installation space is essential. Additionally, at 183 pounds, moving and setting up the unit may require assistance. Lastly, businesses should factor in the initial investment and ongoing operational costs associated with any commercial ice machine. If your establishment prioritizes quick, high-quality ice production with minimal maintenance, the Scotsman HID312A-1 could be a valuable addition to your operations.

The Maxx Ice MIM265H is a solid choice for businesses needing a reliable source of half dice ice cubes. It produces up to 265 pounds of ice daily, which is a good amount for moderate to busy commercial settings like small restaurants or bars. The machine’s built-in storage bin can hold 75 pounds of ice, helping to keep a steady supply ready for use without needing separate storage.

Its compact size (24" x 24" x 38.6") makes it versatile for either freestanding placement or built-in installation, which is great if space is limited. The stainless steel exterior with black trim not only looks professional but is also easy to clean, supporting hygiene and reducing maintenance effort. The inclusion of an ice scoop adds convenience for daily operation.

This ice maker suits businesses that want a dependable, space-efficient unit producing clear half dice ice cubes with decent storage, balancing ease of use and moderate capacity. However, businesses with very high ice demands might find the 265-pound daily output limiting compared to larger machines.