Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Review (2026): A Spec-Based Look
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
In this antarctic star nugget ice maker review, we look at the Gen 2 countertop model. It produces up to 33 pounds of chewable nugget ice daily. The unit features a 1.8-liter built-in water tank and a 1.5-pound ice storage basket. These specs allow for quick production, with the first batch ready in 10 to 15 minutes. The design includes a touch screen for easy operation and a self-cleaning function for hygiene. This compact machine fits on most counters, offering a steady supply of soft ice for home or office use without requiring a plum-in water line.
What stands out
- Produces up to 33 lbs of nugget ice per 24 hours
- 1.8-liter built-in water tank reduces refill frequency
- First batch ready in 10–15 minutes
- Touch screen control with one-touch dispensing
- Self-cleaning function for internal water lines
Who it fits
Good fit for
This ice maker suits households or offices that want chewable ice on demand. The 33-pound daily output handles daily needs for families. The compact footprint of 16.38 inches wide and 13.5 inches high fits small kitchens or desks. The self-cleaning feature helps users maintain hygiene without manual scrubbing. It is also ideal for RVs or parties where portability matters, as the unit is lightweight and easy to move.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you need a plum-in machine. This model relies on a manual water tank, requiring you to refill it regularly. The 1.5-pound ice basket is small, meaning you must empty it often if you serve large groups. If you prefer hard cubed ice for cocktails, this nugget-only output will not meet your needs. Those who want a remote control or smart app integration will find neither mentioned in the specifications.
Verdict: The Antarctic Star Gen 2 offers high daily output and quick production in a compact footprint. It is a practical choice for users who prioritize chewable ice and easy maintenance.
Key specs explained
Ice Type: Nugget
This unit produces chewable, porous ice rather than hard cubes. Nugget ice crushes easily, making it ideal for soft drinks and iced tea. You get a better texture and faster chilling. This style is popular for home bars and casual entertaining. If you prefer crunchy ice for cocktails, this might not suit your taste. Check the ice type carefully before buying.
Daily Output: 33 lbs
The machine makes up to 33 pounds of ice every 24 hours. This high output supports daily use in busy households or small offices. You can keep drinks cold without running out. Compare this to standard makers that produce less. If you host frequent gatherings, this capacity ensures you stay stocked. It reduces the need for constant ice bag purchases.
Water Tank: 1.8 L
The built-in tank holds 1.8 liters of water. This reduces how often you need to refill the machine. You can make multiple batches before adding more water. This is convenient for countertops without easy sink access. Larger tanks mean less interruption during use. Check the tank size if you want fewer refills. It supports steady ice production for daily needs.
Dimensions: 6.69 D x 15.8 L x 13.5 H inches
The unit measures 6.69 inches deep, 15.8 inches long, and 13.5 inches high. This compact footprint fits on most kitchen counters or desks. You save space while getting full functionality. The width allows it to fit in tight spots. Measure your counter space before placing it. This size is portable enough for RVs or parties. It balances capacity with a small physical presence.
Ice Storage: 1.5 lb
The internal basket holds 1.5 pounds of ice. This allows you to store a small reserve for immediate use. You do not need to dispense ice immediately after it forms. The storage prevents the machine from stopping work while the bin is full. It is a modest amount for quick service. Check if this fits your typical serving size. It supports short-term needs without large bins.
Design and Build Overview
According to the listing, the Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Gen 2 features a white finish. You can also find it in a black and white option. The form factor is countertop, meaning you place it on a flat surface like a kitchen counter or desk. The unit weighs enough to stay put but remains portable for indoor or outdoor use. You can move it to parties, camping trips, or RVs without difficulty.
The dimensions are 6.69 inches deep, 15.8 inches wide, and 13.5 inches high. This compact footprint allows it to fit easily in small spaces. The layout includes a detachable cup tray that aligns directly with the ice outlet. You simply place your cup and touch the screen to dispense ice. This design eliminates waste by ensuring you get the exact amount needed.
Controls are managed via an intuitive touch screen. You use it for one-touch ice dropping and to activate the self-cleaning system. The screen makes operation straightforward. The manual water supply design means you fill the 1.8-liter tank yourself. This setup gives you control over water quality and usage. The overall build focuses on practicality and space efficiency for daily home or office use.
Setup and Everyday Use
Setting up this unit is straightforward. You place the countertop ice maker on a flat, stable surface. The compact dimensions of 6.69 by 15.8 by 13.5 inches allow it to fit on most kitchen counters, desks, or in RVs without taking up excessive space. There is no complex installation required. You simply fill the built-in 1.8-liter water tank. This manual water supply system means you do not need a plumbed-in water line. This flexibility makes the machine suitable for indoor and outdoor use, including camping trips or parties.
Daily operation is controlled via an intuitive touch screen. You press a button to start the ice-making cycle. The first batch of nugget ice is ready in 10 to 15 minutes. Once the ice is formed, the machine uses automatic ice shedding to drop the ice into the 1.5-pound storage basket. This prevents clumping and ensures you always have fresh ice available.
Dispensing is simple and designed to reduce waste. The unit includes a detachable cup tray that aligns directly with the ice outlet. You place your cup on the tray and touch the screen to release ice on demand. This manual dispensing method lets you control exactly how much ice you get. For maintenance, the smart self-cleaning function automatically cleans the internal water lines. This feature helps keep the ice hygienic and fresh without requiring you to scrub the interior manually. The process is hands-off, allowing you to focus on enjoying your drinks.
Before You Buy This Ice Maker
You should check your electrical outlet placement before ordering. This countertop unit needs a standard power source nearby. The listing notes a manual water supply system. You must fill the 1.8-liter tank yourself. Keep a pitcher of water ready for quick refills. This design saves space but requires more attention than fully automatic models. You should also verify your ice storage needs. The 1.5-pound basket holds only a small amount. If you host large gatherings, you may need to refill and harvest ice more often. Cleaning is simpler thanks to the self-cleaning function. This feature cleans internal water lines automatically. It helps maintain hygiene with less effort. This model fits well if you want chewable nugget ice without a full ice machine. It complements compact refrigerators by adding specialized ice. Consider your kitchen counter space. The dimensions are compact, but you need room for the cup tray. Ensure you have enough clearance for the touch screen controls. This unit suits casual users who value convenience and texture over high-volume production.
Check before you buy
- Verify your outlet is near the counter.
- Check if you mind manual water refills.
- Ensure you have space for the cup tray.
- Confirm 1.5-pound ice storage meets your needs.
- Measure your counter for 13.5-inch height.
The product at a glance
Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker, White
Best for: daily nugget ice needs
- Daily Ice Production
- 33 lbs
- Storage Capacity
- 1.5 lbs
- Ice Type
- nugget
- Form Factor
- countertop
- Batch Time
- 10–15 minutes
- Water Supply
- manual (1.8 L water tank)
View on Amazon: Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker, White Affiliate link
This countertop nugget ice maker produces up to 33 pounds of ice daily. It features a 1.8-liter water tank and a 1.5-pound storage basket. The unit includes a self-cleaning function and a touch screen for operation. You get ice in 10 to 15 minutes. Its compact design fits on most counters. This machine suits those who want chewable ice for drinks.
Pros
- Produces up to 33 lbs of nugget ice per 24 hours
- 1.8-liter built-in water tank reduces refill frequency
- Self-cleaning system maintains internal water lines
- Touch screen control with one-touch dispensing
- First batch ready in 10–15 minutes
Cons
- Manual water supply requires frequent refilling
- 1.5 lb ice storage basket is small
- No automatic water line connection
Good fit if
- You want chewable nugget ice for drinks
- You need ice quickly for daily use
- You have limited counter space
Skip if
- You prefer hard cubed ice
- You want automatic water hookup
- You need large ice storage
Verdict: Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Gen 2 delivers fast nugget ice for drink lovers. It fits well in homes or offices where space is tight and manual refills are acceptable.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker, White |
|---|---|
| Daily Ice Production | 33 lbs |
| Storage Capacity | 1.5 lbs |
| Ice Type | nugget |
| Form Factor | countertop |
| Batch Time | 10–15 minutes |
| Water Supply | manual (1.8 L water tank) |
| Daily Capacity | 33 lbs/Day |
| Features | Self-Cleaning, Touch Control |
| Application | Home, Office, Kitchen |
| Color | White |
| Dimensions | 15.8 × 6.69 × 13.5 inches |
| Model | HZB-15DN |
Frequently asked questions
How much ice does the Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker make in a day?
The unit produces up to 33 pounds of nugget ice daily. This output supports frequent use for parties or daily hydration needs. The 1.5-pound storage basket holds a portion of this ice, allowing you to serve drinks continuously without waiting for new batches.
What are the exact dimensions of the Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker?
The countertop model measures 15.8 inches in length, 6.69 inches in width, and 13.5 inches in height. These compact dimensions allow it to fit on standard kitchen counters, desks, or in RVs without occupying excessive space. You can place it on any flat, stable surface.
Does the Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker require a water line connection?
No, it uses a manual water supply system. You must fill the 1.8-liter built-in water tank yourself. Keep a pitcher of water nearby for easy refilling. This design means you can place the unit anywhere with a power outlet, without needing plumbing access.
What type of ice does this machine produce?
It generates chewable nugget ice, also known as sonic or pellet ice. This porous ice crushes easily, making it ideal for soft drinks and iced tea. You get a better texture and faster chilling compared to hard cubes. This style is popular for home bars.
Is the Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker suitable for office use?
Yes, it fits well in offices where space is tight. The countertop form factor and white finish blend into most workspaces. The daily production of 33 pounds supports multiple employees. Manual refilling is acceptable for typical office hours and usage patterns.
What is the model number for this Antarctic Star ice maker?
The model number is HZB-15DN. This identifies the Gen 2 countertop version with a white finish. You can use this number to check compatibility with accessories or to find the specific manual for setup and maintenance instructions.