HOSHIZAKI 15-Inch Undercounter Cubelet Ice Maker vs HOSHIZAKI 24-Inch Crescent Ice Maker (2026): Key Differences
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The hoshizaki c 80baj 14 7 8 air cooled vs km 231baj comparison highlights two distinct Hoshizaki ice makers for commercial or heavy-duty use. Both units are air-cooled, stainless steel, and include a built-in storage bin. They share similar electrical requirements at 115 volts. The main difference lies in scale and output. The C-80BAJ is a compact 15-inch undercounter model, while the KM-231BAJ is a larger 24-inch unit designed for higher volume production.
Key differences
| Aspect | Hoshizaki 15-Inch Undercounter Cubelet Ice Maker | Hoshizaki 24-Inch Crescent Ice Maker with Storage Bin |
|---|---|---|
| Ice Type | Cubelet | Crescent |
| Daily Production | Up to 80 lb/24 hours | Up to 213 lb/24 hours |
| Storage Capacity | 22 lb | 80 lb |
| Width | 15 inches | 24 inches |
| Form Factor | Undercounter | Built-In |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Hoshizaki 15-Inch Undercounter Cubelet Ice Maker if
- You need a compact ice maker that fits under a 36-inch counter.
- Your daily ice demand is under 80 pounds.
- You prefer smaller, faster-freezing cubelet ice for quick chilling.
Choose Hoshizaki 24-Inch Crescent Ice Maker with Storage Bin if
- You require high-volume ice production for a busy bar or restaurant.
- You need a large 80-pound storage capacity to handle peak service.
- You have space for a 24-inch wide unit and need crescent-style ice.
Verdict: Choose the C-80BAJ if space is limited and your ice needs are modest. The KM-231BAJ is the better choice if you need to serve more customers or need a larger buffer of ice. Both models offer reliable Hoshizaki quality with built-in bins.
Hoshizaki Ice Maker Comparison
Daily ice production
The Hoshizaki C-80BAJ produces up to 80 pounds of ice every 24 hours. This output assumes standard conditions of 70°F air and 50°F water temperatures. If the environment warms to 90°F air and 70°F water, production drops to 45 pounds per day. The Hoshizaki KM-231BAJ offers significantly higher capacity. It generates up to 213 pounds daily under the same standard conditions. Even in hotter 90°F/70°F environments, it maintains 147 pounds of production. This AHRI-certified figure ensures reliable performance for high-volume needs. You get nearly three times the output with the larger unit.
Ice type
Ice shape affects how you store and serve drinks. The C-80BAJ creates cubelet style ice. These small, uniform cubes are ideal for quick cooling and fit well in standard glassware. The KM-231BAJ produces crescent style ice. These hollow, crescent-shaped cubes are softer and crush easily. This makes them popular for cocktails where ice texture matters. Your choice depends on whether you prefer fast-chilling cubes or mixable crescents. Each machine is optimized for its specific ice format. Consider your primary beverage service when deciding which shape suits your setup.
Storage capacity
Built-in storage bins allow you to keep ice ready without constant harvesting. The C-80BAJ holds 22 pounds of ice. This is sufficient for light to moderate use, such as a small bar or office kitchen. The KM-231BAJ features a much larger 80-pound storage bin. This capacity supports heavy commercial traffic and reduces the frequency of bin emptying. The larger bin also acts as a buffer during peak hours. If you serve many customers or have a busy household, the extra storage space is a practical advantage. It ensures you do not run out of ice during rushes.
Form factor and size
Footprint determines where you can place these units. The C-80BAJ is an undercounter model. It measures 15 inches wide, 22.5 inches long, and 33.5 inches tall. This compact size fits under standard counters or in tight spaces. The KM-231BAJ is a larger built-in unit. It spans 24 inches wide, 28 inches long, and 39 inches tall. The KM-231BAJ sits higher, with 6-inch painted legs, and features an ADA-compliant front-opening bin. Choose the C-80BAJ for space-saving installations. Pick the KM-231BAJ if you have ample floor space and need higher accessibility.
Electrical requirements
Both units operate on a standard 115-volt, 60-cycle, single-phase power supply. This makes installation easier as they plug into common outlets. However, their amperage draw differs. The C-80BAJ requires 4.0 amps. The KM-231BAJ draws 7.1 amps due to its larger compressor and ice-making components. You must ensure your circuit can handle the higher load of the KM-231BAJ. The C-80BAJ is less demanding on your electrical system. If your wiring is limited to lower amperage circuits, the smaller machine is the safer choice. Otherwise, both connect via standard NEMA 5-15P plugs.
Which Hoshizaki Ice Maker Fits Your Needs
You need compact ice for small spaces
The 15-inch C-80BAJ fits tight undercounter spots. It produces 80 pounds of cubelet ice daily. This style suits bars or small offices. The unit measures 14.9 inches wide. It stores 22 pounds of ice inside. Choose this if space is your main constraint.
You require high volume ice production
The 24-inch KM-231BAJ makes up to 213 pounds of ice per day. This crescent ice melts slower, ideal for drinks. It holds 80 pounds of storage. The larger footprint supports busy commercial settings. Pick this model when you need maximum output.
You want ADA compliant access
The KM-231BAJ features a front-opening bin that meets ADA standards. This allows easier access for users in wheelchairs. The 24-inch width provides ample room. It produces crescent ice for better cooling. Choose this for accessibility and high capacity in one unit.
The products compared
Hoshizaki 15-Inch Undercounter Cubelet Ice Maker
Best for: compact commercial undercounter ice needs
- Daily Ice Production
- up to 80 lb/24 hours
- Storage Capacity
- 22 lb.
- Ice Type
- cubelet style
- Form Factor
- undercounter
- Daily Capacity
- 80 lbs/Day
- Cooling Type
- Air-Cooled
View on Amazon: Hoshizaki 15-Inch Undercounter Cubelet Ice Maker Affiliate link
This undercounter ice maker produces cubelet ice for drinks. It holds up to 80 pounds of ice daily and stores 22 pounds in its bin. The unit measures 15 inches wide and 33.5 inches high. It uses air cooling and features a stainless steel exterior. This model is suitable for commercial spaces or busy home kitchens that need reliable, compact ice production.
Pros
- Produces up to 80 lb of ice per 24 hours
- Includes 22 lb built-in storage bin
- Compact 15-inch width fits undercounter spaces
- Approved for outdoor use with UL and NSF certifications
Cons
- 22 lb storage capacity is limited for high-volume use
- Air-cooled system may be less efficient in hot environments
- Produces small cubelet ice, not large cubes
Good fit if
- You need a compact unit for tight undercounter spaces
- You require NSF-approved equipment for commercial settings
- You prefer small cubelet ice for quick chilling
Skip if
- You need large crescent or bullet ice shapes
- You require high storage capacity above 22 lb
- You plan to install it in a very hot area without ventilation
Verdict: Hoshizaki C-80BAJ 15-Inch Cubelet Ice Maker fits busy commercial counters or small kitchens needing reliable cubelet ice production.
Hoshizaki 24-Inch Crescent Ice Maker with Storage Bin
Best for: high-volume commercial bars needing crescent ice
- Daily Ice Production
- up to 213 lb/24 hours
- Storage Capacity
- 80 lb
- Ice Type
- crescent
- Form Factor
- Built-In
- Features
- Storage Bin
- Cooling Type
- Air-Cooled
View on Amazon: Hoshizaki 24-Inch Crescent Ice Maker with Storage Bin Affiliate link
This Hoshizaki unit produces crescent ice cubes with a daily capacity of up to 213 pounds. It features an 80-pound built-in storage bin and measures 24 inches wide. The air-cooled design includes a self-contained condenser for straightforward installation. You will get NSF certification and ADA-compliant access. It suits high-volume needs where crescent-shaped ice is preferred.
Pros
- Produces up to 213 lbs of ice per 24 hours
- Includes an 80 lb built-in storage bin
- NSF certified for commercial reliability
- ADA-compliant front opening bin
Cons
- 24-inch width requires significant counter space
- Air-cooled system may be less efficient in hot environments
- No remote or app control mentioned
Good fit if
- You need high-volume ice production for a bar or restaurant
- You prefer crescent-shaped ice for cocktails
- You have space for a 24-inch wide unit
Skip if
- You have limited counter space and need a narrower unit
- You require water-cooled efficiency for warmer locations
- You need smart connectivity features
Verdict: Hoshizaki 24-Inch Crescent Ice Maker delivers substantial ice output for busy commercial settings. It fits operations that prioritize crescent ice and have the floor space to accommodate its width.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Hoshizaki 15-Inch Undercounter Cubelet Ice Maker | Hoshizaki 24-Inch Crescent Ice Maker with Storage Bin |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Ice Production | up to 80 lb/24 hours | up to 213 lb/24 hours |
| Storage Capacity | 22 lb. | 80 lb |
| Ice Type | cubelet style | crescent |
| Form Factor | undercounter | not stated |
| Daily Capacity | 80 lbs/Day | not stated |
| Features | not stated | Storage Bin |
| Cooling Type | Air-Cooled | Air-Cooled |
| Color | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Dimensions | 22.5 × 15 × 33.5 inches | 28 × 24 × 39 inches |
| Model | C-80BAJ | KM-231BAJ |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between cubelet and crescent ice?
Cubelet ice consists of small, hollow cubes that chill drinks quickly without diluting them as fast. Crescent ice features larger, denser crescent-shaped pieces that cool beverages steadily. The C-80BAJ produces cubelet ice, while the KM-231BAJ makes crescent ice. Your choice depends on whether you prefer rapid cooling or a classic bar presentation.
Which Hoshizaki model is better for a small bar?
The 15-inch C-80BAJ is better for small bars due to its compact undercounter form factor. It measures 14.9 inches wide and fits tight spaces. The KM-231BAJ requires a 24-inch footprint, making it suitable for larger commercial settings with ample floor space. Consider your available counter area when deciding.
Do both ice makers include a storage bin?
Yes, both units include a built-in storage bin for ice retention. The C-80BAJ holds its daily production of 80 pounds. The KM-231BAJ also features an integrated bin to store its higher volume output. This design keeps ice fresh and accessible without needing external containers.
Are these ice makers air-cooled or water-cooled?
Both the C-80BAJ and KM-231BAJ are air-cooled models. They use fans to dissipate heat rather than requiring a continuous water supply for cooling. This makes installation easier in locations where water lines for condenser cooling are not available. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit for optimal performance.
What are the dimensions of the 24-inch Hoshizaki model?
The KM-231BAJ measures 24 inches wide, 28 inches long, and 39 inches high. Its larger size accommodates higher ice production for busy commercial operations. Ensure your installation space can handle these dimensions. The stainless steel finish matches standard commercial kitchen aesthetics.
Can the C-80BAJ fit under a standard counter?
The C-80BAJ is designed as an undercounter unit, measuring 15 inches wide and 33.5 inches high. It fits beneath standard commercial countertops. Its compact depth of 22.5 inches allows it to slide into tight spaces. Verify your counter height clearance before installation.
Which model produces more ice per day?
The KM-231BAJ produces significantly more ice than the C-80BAJ. While specific daily capacity for the KM-231BAJ is not listed in the provided data, it is positioned for high-volume commercial bars. The C-80BAJ produces 80 pounds daily. Choose the larger model if you serve many customers.
Is stainless steel construction durable for commercial use?
Both models feature stainless steel construction, which is durable and easy to clean. This material resists corrosion and withstands frequent use in commercial environments. The stainless steel exterior also provides a professional appearance. Regular cleaning maintains the finish and ensures hygiene standards are met.