Scotsman 30-Inch Medium Cube Undercounter Ice Maker or Scotsman 15-Inch Gourmet Cube Ice Maker? Which Scotsman Model to Buy
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
We compare the scotsman 30 inch medium cube undercounter ice maker vs 15 inch gourmet to help you choose. Both units are Scotsman undercounter models designed for commercial use. They both include storage bins to hold ice between cycles. The main difference lies in their size and ice production. The 30-inch model makes significantly more ice per day. The 15-inch model is much narrower and produces gourmet cubes instead of medium cubes.
Key differences
| Aspect | Scotsman 30-Inch Medium Cube Undercounter Ice Maker | Scotsman 15-Inch Gourmet Cube Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Ice Type | Medium cube | Gourmet cube |
| Width | 30 inches | 14.9 inches |
| Daily Ice Production | Up to 313 lb / day | Up to 64 lbs / 24 hours |
| Storage Capacity | 110 lb | Up to 26 lbs |
| Drain Type | not listed | Gravity drain |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Scotsman 30-Inch Medium Cube Undercounter Ice Maker if
- You need to serve large groups and require high-volume ice production.
- You have a 30-inch wide undercounter space available for installation.
- You want a larger bin capacity to store more ice for peak hours.
Choose Scotsman 15-Inch Gourmet Cube Ice Maker if
- You have limited counter space and need a narrow 15-inch unit.
- You prefer the specific texture and clarity of gourmet ice cubes.
- You need a gravity drain option for easier plumbing installation.
Verdict: The 30-inch model is the better choice for high-traffic commercial environments where volume matters. The 15-inch model suits smaller bars or offices with space constraints. Your decision should depend on your available width and daily ice requirements.
Comparing Scotsman Ice Makers Side by Side
Ice Type
The Scotsman 30-Inch Medium Cube Undercounter Ice Maker produces medium cube ice. This shape is common in commercial settings and fits standard cups well. The Scotsman 15-Inch Gourmet Cube Ice Maker makes gourmet cube ice. Gourmet cubes are denser and melt slower, which is ideal for drinks where dilution matters. If you serve cocktails or prefer ice that lasts longer in your glass, the gourmet cubes offer a distinct advantage. The medium cubes are better for general cooling or bulk serving. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize melt resistance or standard utility.
Daily Capacity
Production volume is a major factor for commercial buyers. The 30-inch model produces up to 313 pounds of ice per day. This high output supports busy bars, restaurants, or large events. The 15-inch model produces up to 64 pounds of ice in 24 hours under optimal conditions. This lower output suits smaller offices, home bars, or low-traffic areas. The larger unit has a clear edge in volume. It can keep up with heavy demand without running out. The smaller unit is sufficient for lighter use but cannot match the sheer output of its larger sibling.
Storage Capacity
Both units include built-in bins to store ice between production cycles. The 30-inch model holds up to 110 pounds of ice. This large capacity means you refill less often and have a buffer during peak hours. The 15-inch model stores up to 26 pounds of ice. While compact, this is still a generous amount for a smaller unit. The 30-inch model wins here due to its significantly larger storage volume. If you need to serve many guests at once without waiting for new ice, the larger bin is essential. The smaller bin works well for steady, moderate consumption.
Form Factor
Space availability dictates which unit fits your layout. The 30-inch model is 30 inches wide, 39.5 inches tall, and 30 inches deep. It requires a substantial undercounter space. The 15-inch model is only 14.9 inches wide, 34.4 inches tall, and 22 inches deep. Its narrow profile allows it to fit into tighter spaces, such as small kitchens or office pantries. The smaller unit has the edge for spatial efficiency. It takes up less floor space and is easier to place in constrained areas. The larger unit needs a dedicated, wider cabinet or counter space.
Installation Features
Ease of installation varies between the two models. The 15-inch model includes a gravity drain, which simplifies plumbing by allowing water to flow out without a pump. It also features a reversible door and adjustable legs for flexible placement. The 30-inch model includes AutoAlert indicator lights and WaterSense adaptive purge control for water management. It also has a unit-specific QR code for maintenance tracking. Both units are designed for commercial use. The 15-inch model offers a practical installation edge with the gravity drain and reversible door, while the 30-inch model focuses on smart monitoring and water efficiency.
Which Scotsman Model Fits Your Needs
High-volume commercial kitchens needing bulk ice
You need maximum output. This 30-inch unit produces up to 313 pounds of medium cube ice daily. The 110-pound storage bin holds enough ice for peak service hours without constant refilling. Its larger footprint supports heavy commercial use where consistent, high-volume supply is critical for operations.
Bars or offices with limited counter space
Space is tight. This 15-inch model fits narrow undercounter slots with a 14.9-inch width. It produces 64 pounds of gourmet cube ice daily. The 26-pound bin keeps a fresh supply ready. Its compact design suits smaller settings where aesthetics and footprint matter more than bulk production.
Users prioritizing ease of installation and drainage
Setup needs to be simple. This model includes a gravity drain for straightforward water removal without complex pump installations. It features reversible doors and adjustable legs to adapt to various kitchen layouts. The NEMA 5-15P plug allows standard electrical connection, making it flexible for different placement scenarios.
The products compared
Scotsman 30-Inch Medium Cube Undercounter Ice Maker
Best for: Commercial bars and restaurants needing high volume
- Daily Ice Production
- Up to 313 lb / day
- Storage Capacity
- 110 lb
- Ice Type
- Medium cube
- Form Factor
- Undercounter
- Features
- Storage Bin
- Placement
- Commercial Use
View on Amazon: Scotsman 30-Inch Medium Cube Undercounter Ice Maker Affiliate link
This Scotsman undercounter unit produces up to 313 pounds of medium cube ice daily. It includes a large 110-pound storage bin, reducing the need for frequent refills. The 30-inch width fits standard commercial cabinetry. AutoAlert lights and WaterSense controls help manage maintenance and water usage efficiently. It is built for high-volume environments where consistent ice supply is critical for operations.
Pros
- Produces up to 313 lb of medium cube ice per day
- Includes a 110 lb storage bin for high capacity
- Features AutoAlert indicator lights for maintenance tracking
- 30-inch width fits standard undercounter spaces
Cons
- 313 lb daily production is lower than the 300 lb+ capacity of some larger commercial models
- Requires professional installation due to commercial grade build and weight
- No mention of smart app connectivity or remote monitoring features
Good fit if
- You run a busy bar or restaurant needing high-volume ice
- You have a 30-inch undercounter space available
- You prefer medium cube ice for drinks
Skip if
- You need nugget or flake ice instead of cubes
- You have limited undercounter space narrower than 30 inches
- You are looking for a residential countertop unit
Verdict: Scotsman 30-Inch Medium Cube Ice Maker delivers reliable high-volume output for commercial kitchens. It suits busy venues that need consistent medium cube ice without frequent bin emptying.
Scotsman 15-Inch Gourmet Cube Ice Maker
Best for: small spaces needing gourmet ice
- Daily Ice Production
- Up to 64 lbs / 24 hours
- Storage Capacity
- Up to 26 lbs
- Ice Type
- Gourmet cube
- Form Factor
- Undercounter
- Drain Type
- Gravity drain
- Placement
- Commercial Use
View on Amazon: Scotsman 15-Inch Gourmet Cube Ice Maker Affiliate link
This Scotsman model produces gourmet ice cubes in a 15-inch footprint. It generates up to 64 lbs of ice daily and holds 26 lbs in the bin. The unit features a gravity drain and reversible door. It suits small commercial spaces or home bars where space is tight but ice quality matters.
Pros
- Produces up to 64 lbs of gourmet ice in 24 hours
- Compact 14.9-inch width fits under standard counters
- Includes 26 lbs storage bin for fresh supply
- Gravity drain simplifies installation without a pump
Cons
- Lower daily production than the 30-inch medium cube model
- Smaller ice storage capacity compared to larger units
- Requires optimal 70°F/50°F conditions for peak performance
Good fit if
- You need gourmet ice for a small bar or office
- You have limited counter space under 15 inches wide
- You prefer gravity drain installation over pump drain
Skip if
- You require high-volume production for large events
- You need medium cube ice instead of gourmet cubes
- You have a wide opening for a 30-inch unit
Verdict: Scotsman 15-Inch Gourmet Cube Undercounter Ice Maker is ideal for tight spaces needing quality ice. It fits small bars or offices where 64 lbs daily is sufficient.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Scotsman 30-Inch Medium Cube Undercounter Ice Maker | Scotsman 15-Inch Gourmet Cube Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Ice Production | Up to 313 lb / day | Up to 64 lbs / 24 hours |
| Storage Capacity | 110 lb | Up to 26 lbs |
| Ice Type | Medium cube | Gourmet cube |
| Form Factor | Undercounter | Undercounter |
| Drain Type | not stated | Gravity drain |
| Features | Storage Bin | not stated |
| Placement | Commercial Use | Commercial Use |
| Dimensions | 30 × 30 × 39.5 inches | 22 × 14.9 × 34.4 inches |
| Size | 300 lb / day | Without Filtration |
| Model | CU3030MA-1 | CU50GA-1 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the daily ice production difference between the two models?
The 30-inch model produces significantly more ice than the 15-inch unit. The larger machine generates up to 300 pounds of medium cube ice per day. In contrast, the smaller 15-inch model produces 64 pounds of gourmet cube ice daily. You should choose the larger unit if you need high-volume output for busy commercial environments.
Which Scotsman ice maker fits in a standard undercounter space?
Both units are designed for undercounter placement in commercial settings. The 30-inch model requires a wider footprint, measuring 30 inches in width and 30 inches in depth. The 15-inch model is narrower at 14.9 inches wide and 22 inches deep. Measure your available space carefully before deciding, as the width difference is substantial for installation planning.
Does the 15-inch Gourmet Cube model include a storage bin?
Yes, the Scotsman 15-Inch Gourmet Cube Ice Maker includes a storage bin. This feature allows the unit to hold ice between production cycles, ensuring you have ice ready for service. The bin capacity helps manage demand spikes without requiring constant monitoring. This makes it suitable for small bars or offices where consistent availability is key.
What type of ice does the 30-inch Medium Cube model produce?
The 30-inch model produces medium cube ice. This shape is standard in many commercial settings and fits well in typical drinkware. It is designed for venues that prioritize volume and consistency over specific ice aesthetics. The medium cube shape helps keep drinks cool effectively while maintaining a traditional appearance for customers.
Is the 15-inch model suitable for a small office breakroom?
Yes, the 15-inch model is ideal for small spaces like office breakrooms. It produces 64 pounds of gourmet cube ice daily, which is sufficient for low-to-medium traffic areas. Its compact width of 14.9 inches allows it to fit into tighter footprints. The gourmet cube shape adds a premium touch for employee and guest use.
How tall is the Scotsman 30-inch undercounter ice maker?
The Scotsman 30-Inch Medium Cube Undercounter Ice Maker stands 39.5 inches tall. This height is standard for undercounter commercial units, allowing it to fit beneath most countertops. Ensure your ceiling clearance and counter height accommodate this dimension. The unit also measures 30 inches in width and depth, requiring a dedicated space for proper ventilation and operation.
What is the height of the 15-inch Gourmet Cube unit?
The Scotsman 15-Inch Gourmet Cube Ice Maker is 34.4 inches tall. This slightly shorter profile compared to the 30-inch model makes it easier to install in spaces with lower clearance. It measures 22 inches in depth and 14.9 inches in width. The compact dimensions allow it to fit into smaller commercial kitchens or service areas.