If you’ve ever looked into buying a home ice maker, you’ve probably come across two common types of ice: nugget and bullet. While both are great for cooling drinks, the kind you choose can make a big difference in your daily routine. Let’s break it down simply.
Nugget Ice: Soft & Chewable
Nugget ice is soft, crushed ice that is pressed into small, cloudy pieces. Some people call it Sonic ice or chewable ice because of its soft texture and easy crunch.
Why people like it:
- Gentle on teeth and satisfying to chew
- Soaks up drink flavors
- Melts at a good pace
- Works well for iced coffee, smoothies, and cocktails
Best for:
Anyone who snacks on ice or wants a softer texture in their drinks
Good option:
The Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker produces up to 44 pounds of nugget ice per day and includes simple, one-button controls and self-cleaning.
Bullet Ice: Fast Cooling
Bullet ice is solid, tube-shaped ice with a clear or slightly cloudy look. It forms quickly and is less porous than nugget ice.
Why people like it:
- Ready in 6 to 8 minutes
- Fits easily into water bottles and narrow cups
- Cools drinks quickly
Best for:
People who need ice quickly and want it to cool down their drinks as soon as possible.
Good option:
The Antarctic Star Bullet Ice Maker can make up to 26 pounds of ice per day. It offers two ice size choices and has a compact, user-friendly design.
Final Thoughts
If you like a softer, chewable ice that blends into your drinks and offers a fun texture, nugget ice is probably the better pick. If you want fast, solid ice that’s easy to make and cools drinks without watering them down too quickly, bullet ice is a solid choice.
At Rowan, we offer both nugget and bullet ice makers so you can choose based on your preferences and routine.
