Frigidaire Gallery, 33 Lbs. Countertop Ice Maker, Nugget Shaped Ice, Stainless Steel Trim (Navy)

What buyers think

Buyer-review evidence points to strong satisfaction with the ice quality and overall usability. Several shoppers describe the nugget ice as the right size for mixed drinks and note that the machine produces ice quickly after powering on. Setup and operation appear straightforward, and at least some owners appreciate the included cleaning guidance and the presence of a drain plug at the bottom for clearing melt water.

On the downside, review themes include two practical limitations: the unit does not keep ice frozen (melt water is expected), and the drainage method can feel messy or overly involved. There are also reliability concerns in the review mix, including reports of leaking from the base area and occasional stoppages that require unplugging and restarting, though these are not universal across all feedback. As a result, durability appears variable rather than consistently smooth for every buyer.

What this ice maker is best for

This model is aimed at people who specifically want nugget ice for everyday enjoyment. If you like chewable “sonic” ice in a glass, for soda, or in cocktails that benefit from small, easy-to-mix pieces, the nugget format is the headline feature.

It can also make sense for smaller households and entertaining where you will use ice regularly and can keep up with the “make, then transfer” routine. With a 3 lb bin and 33 lb daily production, it’s designed to keep you supplied, as long as you move ice to a freezer for longer holding.

Speed and capacity: how fast you should expect ice

The ice maker is rated for 33 lb of ice per day and a 3 lb bin capacity. The manufacturer guidance states you can have soft, crunchy nugget ice within about 15 minutes. In reviews, some owners echo the “fast to first ice” experience, and others describe filling the drawer on the order of about an hour depending on use.

If your goal is frequent, ongoing drink prep (for example, weekend cocktail service or daily iced drinks), this speed profile is generally aligned with that workflow. If you need large quantities stored without transfers, you may be happier pairing it with a nearby freezer space and a planned transfer routine.

Ice storage is the big limitation

One of the most important buying caveats is that the unit is designed to produce ice, not keep it frozen. That means ice can melt while it sits in the bin, and the machine’s melt water needs handling. Buyer feedback reflects this reality directly, including frustration with melt-water drainage and the need to physically manage drainage from the base area.

To get the best experience, treat this as “countertop ice production,” not “set it and forget it freezer.” Transfer ice to your freezer promptly when the bin fills or when you need it stored longer.

Noise and day-to-day usability

Compact countertop ice makers typically come with some operational noise, and this one is no exception. Reviews include comments about it being somewhat loud while making ice, while other buyers describe it as not terribly loud. If noise sensitivity is a dealbreaker for you, it may be worth weighing how often you plan to run it and where it will sit in your kitchen.

On the usability side, reviews generally describe operation as simple, with a straightforward on/off button approach and practical included accessories like an ice scoop and drip tray. Where users disagree is the convenience of melt-water management, especially when the tray does not feel like a complete solution for their setup.

Design and specs that matter for choosing the right spot

Counter fit: The unit’s dimensions are 13.8"D x 9.4"W x 14.8"H, and it’s intended to work on a countertop. The narrower profile can also help with placement under cabinets.

Included items: You get the icemaker, ice bin, ice scoop, and drip tray.

Power and cooling approach: It runs on 110 volts with a specified 200 kWh rating (as listed) and uses R600a refrigerant (per listing specs). The listed material type is plastic with a stainless steel trim design.

Ice handling: The bin is part of the system, but because it does not freeze like a dedicated freezer, your workflow matters as much as the production rate.

Pros and cons (editor’s verdict)

• Choose it if: you want nugget ice texture specifically, you have freezer space for holding ice, and you’re okay with managing melt water during operation.
• Skip it if: you need a countertop unit that keeps ice frozen for long periods, you cannot tolerate some operational noise, or you prefer hassle-free drainage and fully “set-and-forget” storage.
• Use it well if: you plan to transfer ice promptly and you’ll run it at a cadence that matches your drink routine.

Price and availability

Pricing and stock can move quickly. Check the latest listing for current availability and the most accurate total cost for your area.

Buy on Amazon

Alternatives to consider (based on what you care about)

If you’re shopping the “nugget ice” category, the main decision factors are whether you need ice storage, how much daily production you actually use, and how much convenience you expect from drainage and cleanup.

• If you want true long-term ice storage, consider a model or setup that includes freezer-like holding, because this one is production-focused.
• If your top priority is quiet operation and you’re sensitive to countertop appliance noise, compare models with similar nugget output but look for stronger noise consistency in review feedback.
• If you expect minimal maintenance, compare how melt water is managed and whether drainage is designed to be easy to empty without moving the unit.

FAQ

Recommended next

Shaved Ice Machines $99.94

★★★★★ 4.6/5 8,742 ratings

Cuisinart Snow Cone Machine, Home Shaved Ice Maker for Snow review

The Cuisinart SCM-10P1 shaves regular ice cubes into fine, fluffy shaved ice for snow cones, slushies, and frozen drinks. Buyers like how quickly it makes enough for multiple cones, the enclosed design that helps reduce mess, and the safety stop when the ice feeder is opened. The main tradeoff is that results depend on using the right ice amount and applying gentle pressure.

Shaved Ice Machines $260

★★★★★ 4.6/5 3,722 ratings

Ninja SLUSHi Frozen Drink & Slushie Machine with RapidChill Technology

Ninja SLUSHi FS301 turns liquids into smooth, icy frozen drinks without ice or blending. With a large 88 oz easy-fill vessel, five preset programs, and temperature controls, it’s built for repeat batches for parties, families, and adult slush-style drinks. The main tradeoff: it still depends on recipe sugar (or a recommended sugar substitute) to slush properly.

Shaved Ice Machines $245

★★★★★ 4.6/5 438 ratings

Ninja SLUSHi Professional Frozen Drink Maker with RapidChill Technology, 88 oz.

The Ninja SLUSHi FS299 turns many pour-in liquids into frozen slush and frozen drinks without ice or blending. It uses RapidChill for faster freezing, offers two preset programs plus texture control, and is designed for large-batch entertaining (up to 12 hours of keeping power). The main caveat is that proper slush typically depends on including sugar, especially for sugar-free recipes.

Shaved Ice Machines $59.99

★★★★★ 4.5/5 12,443 ratings

Nostalgia Snow Cone Shaved Ice Machine - Retro Table-Top Slushie Machine

The Nostalgia Snow Cone Shaved Ice Machine is a compact, retro table-top shaved ice maker designed for turning ice cubes into fluffy snow cones using stainless steel cutting blades. It’s a strong pick for families and casual entertaining where easy operation and easy counter storage matter, with the main caveat being that you’ll need to buy syrups separately.