6 models in this file
Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Makers: Which Countertop Model?
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Antarctic Star has carved out a solid reputation in the compact cooling space by producing countertop ice makers that deliver restaurant-style pellet ice without demanding commercial kitchen plumbing or massive counter space. Known for fast refrigeration cycles and soft, chewable nugget ice, the brand appeals directly to travel trailer owners, cabin hosts, and home beverage enthusiasts who prioritize texture and steady daily output. These units run on standard electrical hookups, making them a practical luxury for recreational vehicles, outdoor summer kitchens, and small vacation rentals where traditional freezer trays fail to keep up with demand.
While all six models produce chewable sonic-style ice, they differ fundamentally in how they dispense ice—utilizing either hands-free touchless dispensing chutes or removable lift-out baskets—as well as their daily output ranging from 33 to 44 pounds, water reservoir capacities between 1.0 and 1.8 liters, and cabinet footprints equipped with or without folding transport handles.
The line-up at a glance
Antarctic Star Countertop Nugget Ice Makers Compared
| Model | Daily Output | Water Reservoir | Ice Storage / Dispensing | Dimensions & Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antarctic Star HZB-15DN (Touch-Free Dispenser) | 33 lbs / 24 hours | 1.8 Liters | 1.5 lbs / Direct Cup Dispensing Chute | 16.38″D x 6.59″W x 13.46″H / 19.8 lbs (Power not listed) |
| Antarctic Star HZB-15S/N (Silver Portable) | 34 lbs / 24 hours | 1.0 Liter | Removable Basket & Scoop (Capacity not listed) | Not listed / 136 Watts, 110 Volts |
| Antarctic Star HZB-20EN (High-Capacity 44 Lb) | 44 lbs / 24 hours | 1.8 Liters | 2.65 lbs / Removable Basket & Scoop | 9.45″D x 12.20″W x 14.96″H / 120 Watts |
| Antarctic Star HZB-15DN Gen 2 (Auto Dispenser) | 33 lbs / 24 hours | 1.8 Liters | 1.5 lbs / Direct Cup Dispensing Chute | 6.69″D x 16.38″W x 13.46″H / Wattage not listed |
| Antarctic Star HZB-15NH (Black Portable) | 34 lbs / 24 hours | Not listed | 12-15 lbs Stored / Removable Basket & Scoop | Not listed / 136 Watts, 115 Volts |
| Antarctic Star Portable 35 Lb (Fast Cycle) | 35 lbs / 24 hours | 1.2 Liters | 2.2 lbs / Removable Basket with Clear Lid | 11.26″D x 8.5″W x 12.68″H / 139 Watts |
No. 1 of 6 · Antarctic Star
Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Countertop for Touch-Free Dispensing
8.0/10 Our score
Best for: Camper vans and dark kitchens
What the listing says
- Professional Nugget Ice Maker & High Output Equipped with advanced ice-making technology, this countertop ice maker efficiently produces up to 33 lbs of…
- Smart Self-Cleaning Function & Touch Screen Control：Features a self-cleaning ice maker system that automatically cleans the…
- Large Capacity & Quick Ice Production Boasts a 1.8 L built-in water tank and a 1.5 lb ice storage basket, reducing the need for frequent refills.
- User-Friendly & No-Waste Ice Dispensing Comes with a detachable cup tray that aligns directly with the ice outlet—simply place your cup…
- Space-Saving & Portable Design With compact dimensions of 6.69’’ D × 16.38’’ W × 13.46’’ H, this tabletop ice maker fits easily on countertops, desks, or kitchen islands.
Pros
- Smudge-resistant black stainless finish
- Removable top cover for access
- Integrated carry handle
Cons
- Requires manual scoop retrieval
Best for: Office setups and touchless kitchens
Pros
- Gen 2 automatic dispenser chute
- Smart light indicator alerts
- Detachable drip tray
Cons
- Storage basket capped at 1.5 pounds
Best for: Cabin gatherings needing maximum ice
Pros
- High 44-pound daily output
- Spacious 2.65-pound storage basket
- Intuitive LED touch controls
Cons
- Taller cabinet at nearly 15 inches
Best for: Mobile RV road trips
Pros
- Folding transport handle
- Quick 10-minute first batch
- Low 136-watt power consumption
Cons
- Smaller 1.0-liter water capacity
Best for: Hands-free countertop dispensing
Pros
- Touch-free push dispensing
- Generous 1.8-liter reservoir
- Slender 6.59-inch front profile
Cons
- Deep 16.38-inch cabinet depth
The Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Countertop is built specifically for users who want clean, touch-free operation without needing an ice scoop. Featuring an integrated cup-activated dispensing station, this machine allows you to place a glass directly on the detachable drip tray and press the digital touchscreen to drop fresh ice directly into your drink. Producing up to 33 pounds of chewable nugget ice every 24 hours, it delivers its initial batch in 10 to 15 minutes, making it a reliable fixture for shared RV galleys, office break counters, and home cocktail stations where multiple people retrieve ice throughout the day.
Under the stainless steel housing, the HZB-15DN incorporates a generous 1.8-liter internal water reservoir and a 1.5-pound holding basket with an automatic shedding mechanism to keep ice loose and ready. It features an automated self-cleaning cycle that flushes the internal water lines to maintain fresh-tasting ice over extended travel trips. At 19.8 pounds with physical dimensions measuring 16.38 inches deep, 6.59 inches wide, and 13.46 inches high, its slender front profile fits cleanly between existing countertop appliances, though its deeper cabinet requires adequate clearance from the wall.
This self-dispensing model is best suited for hygiene-conscious hosts and small offices who want to eliminate shared scoops. However, if your road trip setup demands an integrated carry handle for frequent outdoor relocations or higher storage volume, the top-loading basket models in the lineup offer a more portable form factor.
No. 2 of 6 · Antarctic Star
Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Countertop for Portable RV Travel
8.8/10 Our score
What the listing says
- Chewable Nugget Ice – Enjoy soft, chewable "Sonic-style" ice perfect for cocktails, sodas, or sensitive teeth.
- 10-Minute Rapid Ice – Makes the first batch in just 10 mins, so you’ll never wait for chilled drinks.
- Portable & Easy to Use – Lightweight with a comfortable handle and included ice scoop/basket—take it anywhere (home, office, RV, camping).
- Smart Self-Cleaning – One-touch auto-cleaning function eliminates mineral buildup—no scrubbing needed!
- Space-Saving Design – Compact countertop ice machine (no plumbing needed) fits in kitchens, dorm rooms, or boats.
Travelers who require physical mobility will appreciate the Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, a top-loading stainless steel silver unit configured with a sturdy folding carry handle. Yielding up to 34 pounds of soft, chewable ice per day, it starts dropping ice in just 10 minutes from a cold start. Unlike chute-dispensing machines, this traditional design comes supplied with a removable ice storage basket and a dedicated plastic scoop, allowing you to lift out the entire batch to fill an insulated cooler or drink pitcher in seconds.
Operating on a standard 110-volt supply with a modest 136-watt motor draw, this unit is well-suited for camper van power inverters and campsite hookups. It holds a 1-liter water capacity and features intuitive control indicators for “Ice Full” and “Low Water” to prevent dry runs or counter spills. Maintenance is straightforward thanks to a smart self-cleaning routine initiated by pressing and holding the power button for five seconds when the unit is powered down. The listing does not specify exterior dimensions, but its top-handle configuration highlights grab-and-go convenience.
This model suits weekend campers and mobile tailgaters who need a lightweight, packable pellet ice source. When compared to the brand’s larger units, its 1-liter reservoir requires more frequent manual refills, so users planning stationary cabin use may prefer an option with a larger water tank.
No. 3 of 6 · Antarctic Star
Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Countertop for High-Capacity Ice Production
8.6/10 Our score
What the listing says
- 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐍𝐮𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐈𝐜𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐫 & 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐩𝐮𝐭 Equipped with advanced ice-making technology, this countertop ice maker efficiently produces up to 33 lbs of…
- 𝐔𝐬𝐞𝐫-𝐅𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐲 & 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐜𝐡-𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐈𝐜𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 Comes with a detachable cup tray that aligns directly with the ice outlet—simply place your cup…
- 𝐋𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐲 & 𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐈𝐜𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 Boasts a 1.8 L built-in water tank and a 1.5 Lbs ice storage basket, reducing the need for frequent refills.
- 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 & 𝐎𝐧𝐞-𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥 Features a self-cleaning ice maker system that automatically cleans the internal water lines, ensuring fresh and hygienic ice every time.
- 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐞-𝐒𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 & 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧 With compact dimensions of 16.38’’ D × 6.59 ’’ W × 13.46’’ H, this tabletop ice maker fits easily on countertops, desks, or kitchen islands.
For large family gatherings, holiday cabins, or serious beverage stations, the Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Countertop offers the greatest daily output in the brand’s portfolio. Delivering up to 44 pounds of chewable nugget ice over a 24-hour window, this model produces continuous batches on a rapid 10 to 15-minute cycle. Its internal storage basket holds an impressive 2.65 pounds of ice, ensuring you have ample supply on hand when mixing drinks for a group.
The cabinet measures 9.45 inches deep, 12.20 inches wide, and 14.96 inches high, housing a spacious 1.8-liter water tank alongside energy-conscious 120-watt mechanics. A modern LED touch panel provides simple one-touch management over ice production and triggers a comprehensive 20-minute automated sanitization cycle that scrubs the internal lines without requiring chemical additives. Clear visual alerts notify users when the ice basket is full or when the water level drops. The machine includes a removable ice basket, water tank, and comes backed by a one-year warranty.
Shoppers looking for a comprehensive antarctic star ice maker comparison will find this 44-pound unit ideal for stationary kitchens, lake houses, and basecamp cabins where ice consumption is continuous. However, its taller 14.96-inch height and wider front stance make it less practical for tight camper countertops than the narrower dispenser models.
No. 4 of 6 · Antarctic Star
Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Countertop Gen 2 for Automatic Cup Filling
8.4/10 Our score
What the listing says
- Chewable Nugget Ice Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker can create soft ice that is easier to chew, bringing you…
- 10-Minute Rapid Ice Makes the first batch in just 10 mins, so you’ll never wait for chilled drinks.
- Portable & Easy to Use: Lightweight with a comfortable handle and included ice scoop/basket—take it anywhere…
- Smart Self-Cleaning One-touch self-cleaning, make sure the nugget ice remain fresh and clean.
- Space-Saving Design Compact countertop ice maker, sturdy carrying handle, including ice scoop and storage basket.
The Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Countertop Gen 2 refines the brand’s automatic dispensing concept with an updated penguin-style exterior, an intuitive touchscreen interface, and a smart light alert system. Like the original dispenser variant, it outputs up to 33 pounds of chewable nugget ice per 24 hours and completes its first cycle in 10 to 15 minutes. It bypasses the traditional basket-and-scoop routine entirely, using a push-to-dispense chute aligned with a detachable cup tray to drop measured amounts of ice directly into your glassware.
Its internal layout features a 1.8-liter manual-fill water reservoir paired with a 1.5-pound holding basket. Built-in ice shedding prevents nuggets from fusing together inside the hopper, maintaining consistent flow through the dispenser nozzle. The unit measures 6.69 inches deep, 16.38 inches wide, and 13.46 inches high, presenting a broad, low-depth profile that sits neatly against backsplashes. Routine maintenance is handled through an integrated one-click cleaning system that purges internal plumbing lines. The package includes the ice maker, user documentation, and a one-year manufacturer warranty.
This Gen 2 edition suits busy households and home office wet bars that prioritize touchless convenience. Those exploring a dedicated portable nugget ice maker countertop setup should note that its 1.5-pound internal hopper is tailored for on-demand cup filling rather than bulk harvesting for large coolers.
No. 5 of 6 · Antarctic Star
Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Countertop for Matte Black Styling
9.0/10 Our score
What the listing says
- Efficient Ice Making Experience Make chewable ice with our versatile countertop ice maker.
- Intelligent Ice Management System You won't miss a beat with our Intelligent Ice Full Alert and Water Shortage Alert systems.
- Hygienic 20-Minute Self-Cleaning Maintain pristine ice quality with the one-touch self-cleaning function that thoroughly sanitizes your portable ice maker…
- Intuitive LED Touch Control Easily operate your electric ice maker through the sleek LED touch screen panel.
- Space-Saving & Portable Design With compact dimensions (9.45"D×12.20"W×14.96"H) and removable ice basket/water tank, this mini ice makers countertop fits perfectly…
For campers, kitchenettes, and modern motorhomes styled with dark cabinetry, the Antarctic Star Nugget Ice Maker Countertop provides a sleek stainless steel black exterior that resists visible smudges. Generating up to 34 pounds of chewable sonic-style ice each day, this model gets cold drinks flowing with a rapid 10-minute first batch. Ice is retrieved conventionally via an included ice scoop and a removable basket, and the unit features a removable top cover that simplifies interior access when wiping down surfaces.
The appliance runs on 115 volts with a power consumption rating of 136 watts, fitting comfortably within standard RV campsite power limitations. The listing highlights an internal storage capacity of 12 to 15 pounds and includes responsive “Ice Full” and “Low Water” indicators on the front panel. A one-touch auto-cleaning program runs water through the system to prevent mineral buildup and keep the internal mechanics running smoothly. Exterior cabinet dimensions are not specified in the listing, but the unit features a sturdy carrying handle for transport between the galley and patio.
This black stainless steel model suits travelers wanting a contemporary visual aesthetic combined with a physical carry handle for patio or campground use. For buyers who prefer hands-free dispensing directly into a cup, the brand’s silver HZB-15DN models remain the better alternative.
No. 6 of 6 · Antarctic Star
Portable 35 Lbs Self-Cleaning Chewable Nugget for Quick-Batch Road Trips
8.6/10 Our score
Best for: Speed-focused weekend campers
What the listing says
- Restaurant-Quality Ice for Any Drink: Generate soft, chewable nuggets that chill beverages quickly and enhance flavors,…
- Rapid Production for Daily Needs: Create your first batch in 5–8 minutes and produce up to…
- Transparent Tank with Generous Storage: Features a 1.2L water reservoir and a 2.2 lbs removable ice…
- Space-Saving Portability Includes a built-in handle for easy transport; its compact footprint fits seamlessly into kitchens, RVs, home…
- Effortless One-Button Control Operate simply by adding water and pressing start via the intuitive panel to enjoy fresh nugget…
Pros
- Fast 5 to 8 minute initial cycle
- Compact 8.5-inch wide footprint
- Transparent reservoir lid
Cons
- Modest 1.2-liter water tank
When turnaround speed is the top priority on road trips, the Portable 35 Lbs Self-Cleaning Chewable Nugget stands out by producing its first batch of pellet ice in just 5 to 8 minutes. Producing up to 35 pounds of soft, chewable nugget ice per day, it is engineered for travelers who make frequent stops and want chilled drinks without waiting through long freezing cycles. A transparent water reservoir lid makes it easy to monitor supply levels without interrupting the freezing process.
The compact frame measures 11.26 inches deep, 8.5 inches wide, and 12.68 inches high, making it one of the most space-efficient footprints in the entire Antarctic Star catalog. It houses a 1.2-liter water reservoir and an internal removable ice basket holding up to 2.2 pounds of nugget ice. The 139-watt cooling engine is managed via a straightforward one-button control panel, complemented by an integrated carry handle and an automated self-cleaning function for quick maintenance on the road.
This compact machine is the ideal choice for day boaters, teardrop camper owners, and tailgate hosts who need rapid ice production from a small electrical footprint. However, if your group requires massive batch storage or touch-free dispensing, the larger 44-pound HZB-20EN or the HZB-15DN auto dispenser will be a better fit.
Before you choose
How to Choose the Right Antarctic Star Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
Selecting the ideal Antarctic Star nugget ice maker comes down to balancing ice dispensing preferences, physical counter dimensions, water reservoir volume, and electrical demands for mobile travel. Because all models produce soft, chewable sonic-style ice rather than hard bullet cubes, your decision should align with how and where you plan to use the machine.
- Dispensing Mechanism: If hygiene and touchless convenience matter most, the HZB-15DN and Gen 2 auto-dispensing models eliminate the need for an ice scoop by dropping ice straight into your glass from an elevated chute. Conversely, if you plan to empty full batches into coolers or pitchers, top-loading models like the HZB-15S/N, HZB-15NH, HZB-20EN, and the Portable 35 Lb model provide removable baskets that allow quick bulk scooping.
- Daily Output and Storage: Output across the lineup ranges from 33 to 44 pounds per 24 hours. For high-demand environments such as large family gatherings or vacation cabins, the 44-pound HZB-20EN leads the group with a 2.65-pound storage basket. Smaller households and weekend RVers will find the 33- to 35-pound models plenty capable for routine hydration and cocktail mixing.
- Countertop Footprint and Portability: Counter space is often at a premium in campers and compact kitchens. The HZB-15DN features a narrow 6.59-inch width that slips between appliances, while the Portable 35 Lb model balances an 8.5-inch width with an 11.26-inch depth and a built-in carry handle. Models with integrated handles—such as the HZB-15S/N, HZB-15NH, and Portable 35 Lb—are noticeably easier to pack, lift, and transport.
- Water Capacity and Refills: Water tank sizes range from 1.0 liter on the HZB-15S/N to 1.8 liters on the HZB-15DN, Gen 2, and HZB-20EN models. A larger reservoir reduces the frequency of manual refills during long afternoons, which is particularly beneficial when running the unit outdoors or away from a dedicated sink.
- Power Draw for Inverters: All documented models operate within a 120- to 139-watt range on standard 110- to 115-volt circuits. This modest electrical demand makes Antarctic Star machines compatible with portable power stations and RV inverters, provided your battery bank can support the steady continuous draw. Shoppers comparing broader market specs can check our general countertop nugget ice maker evaluations to verify power compatibility before hitting the road.
Questions people ask
FAQ
What makes Antarctic Star nugget ice different from regular cube ice?
Antarctic Star machines produce nugget ice, also known as pellet or sonic-style ice, by scraping flaked ice into compact, porous cylinders. Unlike solid, hard ice cubes, nugget ice is soft, airy, and easily chewable, allowing it to chill drinks rapidly while absorbing the flavors of iced coffee, sodas, and craft cocktails without dulling teeth.
Do Antarctic Star countertop ice makers keep stored ice frozen indefinitely?
No, countertop nugget ice makers are designed as ice production units rather than refrigerated deep freezers. While their insulated storage compartments keep ice cold for several hours, unused ice gradually melts over time. The melted water drains back into the lower reservoir, where the machine recycles it to freeze fresh nuggets automatically.
How do you run the self-cleaning cycle on an Antarctic Star ice maker?
On push-button basket models like the HZB-15S/N, you fill the reservoir with fresh water, ensure the machine is powered off, and press and hold the power button for five seconds to start the cleaning cycle. On touchscreen models like the HZB-15DN, Gen 2, and HZB-20EN, self-cleaning is activated with a single tap on the digital control screen, circulating water through the internal lines for 15 to 20 minutes.
Can I run an Antarctic Star nugget ice maker from an RV power inverter?
Yes, provided your power system can supply standard 110- to 115-volt alternating current. With motor ratings between 120 and 139 watts across the lineup, these units draw a relatively low operating wattage that works well with typical RV inverters and portable lithium power stations during road trips.
How often should the water reservoir and internal lines be cleaned?
For optimal taste and mechanical longevity, run the automated self-cleaning cycle weekly when the appliance is in active use. Using distilled or filtered water helps prevent mineral scale from accumulating inside the internal freezing cylinder, which is especially important when traveling through areas with hard municipal tap water.
Prices, specifications and the feature lines above are read from the product listing and can change without notice. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback; nothing on this page is written from handling the product.
