Sometimes you just feel like chilling in your backyard enjoying some flavorful snow cones with the kids. But, to get this almost heavenly pleasure, you need to first invest in the best shaved ice machine.
A shaved ice machine is simply a machine that shaves down large ice chunks into shaved ice and eliminates the need to do it manually. It does this using some powerful stainless steel or steel blades that are powered by a motor. These blades will shave down the ice chunks placed on the top hopper and dispense them into the snow cone or shavings bowl.
And if you are always wondering where to get that perfect shaved ice machine, this piece is the perfect starting point for you. Here we provide a comprehensive review of 10 top models and also show you how to pick the best one for you.
In this post:
- 10 Best Shaved Ice Machines – Review
- 1. Nostalgia RSM602 – Best Overall
- 2. Dash DSIM100GBAQ02 – Best Budget
- 3. Great Northern Popcorn Company 6057 – Best Commercial
- 4. Nostalgia SCM525BL – Perfect Size & Safe to Use
- 5. Cuisinart SCM-10P1 – Fast & Effortless Operation
- 6. Little Snowie 2 Ice Shaver – Professional-grade Home Shaver
- 7. Zeny Ice Shaver Machine – Well-built & Eye-catching
- 8. Zeny 300B – Versatile & Efficient
- 9. Hawaiian Shaved Ice S900A – Compact & Simple-to-Use
- 10. Time for Treats VKP1100 – Reliable Treats Maker
- How to Buy the Best Shaved Ice Machine
- Conclusion
10 Best Shaved Ice Machines – Review
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Nostalgia RSM602 (Best Overall) |
| |
 | 2. Dash DSIM100GBAQ02 (Best Budget) |
| |
 | 3. Great Northern Popcorn Company 6057 (Best Commercial) |
| |
 | 4. Nostalgia SCM525BL (Perfect Size & Safe to Use) |
| |
 | 5. Cuisinart SCM-10P1 (Fast & Effortless Operation) |
| |
 | 6. Little Snowie 2 Ice Shaver (Professional-Grade Home Shaver) |
| |
 | 7. Zeny Ice Shaver Machine (Well-Built & Eye-Catching) |
| |
 | 8. Zeny 300B (Versatile & Efficient) |
| |
 | 9. Hawaiian Shaved Ice S900A (Compact & Simple-to-Use) |
| |
 | 10. Time for Treats VKP1100 (Reliable Treats Maker) |
|
PRODUCT |
|---|
1. Nostalgia RSM602 (Best Overall)
|
2. Dash DSIM100GBAQ02 (Best Budget)
|
3. Great Northern Popcorn Company 6057 (Best Commercial)
|
4. Nostalgia SCM525BL (Perfect Size & Safe to Use)
|
5. Cuisinart SCM-10P1 (Fast & Effortless Operation)
|
6. Little Snowie 2 Ice Shaver (Professional-Grade Home Shaver)
|
7. Zeny Ice Shaver Machine (Well-Built & Eye-Catching)
|
8. Zeny 300B (Versatile & Efficient)
|
9. Hawaiian Shaved Ice S900A (Compact & Simple-to-Use)
|
10. Time for Treats VKP1100 (Reliable Treats Maker)
|
1. Nostalgia RSM602 – Best Overall
Photo: Nostalgia
- Capacity: 20 (8-ounce) cones
- Materials: Plastic
- Weight: 6 pounds
- Dimensions: 13.5 x 10.75 x 10.25 inches
With the durable and highly precise stainless steel blades, the Nostalgia RSM602 is our best overall shaved ice machine as it delivers some high-quality shavings consistently. And to make things even better, it is still quite fairly priced.
This shaved ice machine has a decent capacity as it can make up to twenty 8-ounce shaved cones. And with the larger, 360-degree view chamber, you can easily monitor the quantity of shaved ice you have.
Preparing your snow cones is easier thanks to the inclusion of the side shelf that can hold two snow cones. Operating the machine is safe thanks to the built-in safety switch, and users will love that it has a more compact design that takes up little counter space.
The quality of the chamber door and the latch need some improvement as they are not the best. But, they should still be okay once you get used to the machine. Furthermore, the door does not affect the quality of the ice shavings and efficiency of the machine, and hence not a deal-breaker.
Pros:
- Durable and highly precise blades
- Nice, see-through chamber
- Relatively larger capacity
- Compact enough for most kitchens
- Safety switch helps to keep hands safe
Cons:
- Chamber door would do with some improvement
2. Dash DSIM100GBAQ02 – Best Budget
Photo: Dash
- Materials: Plastic
- Weight: 1 pound
- Dimensions: 6.3 x 9 x 12.3 inches
Dash DSIM100GBAQ02 is the cheapest shaved ice machine on our list, and it will be the perfect choice for anyone shopping on a small budget. Despite being affordable, it still has a lot to offer and will make some of the fluffiest shaved ice.
The simple to operate design will also be convenient for most users as using it will only require you to plug it in and add regular ice to start shaving.
This is a highly portable shaved ice machine as it weighs under one pound, and it is also designed to be more compact. This size and weight make this the perfect machine for use in smaller kitchens and campers.
To ensure maximum shaving efficiency, this shaved ice machine will come with a highly durable stainless steel blade. And cleanup is also straightforward as it is easy to take apart.
There is no on/off switch on this shaved ice machine, which can be a little inconvenient. However, this will hardly be an issue once you get used to this machine.
Pros:
- Relatively more affordable
- Simple to operate
- More compact and lightweight design
- Sturdy stainless steel blade
- Easy to cleanup
Cons:
- No on/off switch
3. Great Northern Popcorn Company 6057 – Best Commercial
Photo: Great Northern Popcorn Company
- Capacity: 350 lbs/hour
- Materials: Steel
- Weight: 57.5 pounds
- Dimensions: 15 x 12 x 30.5 inches
Anyone on the market for a commercial shaved ice machine will hardly ever need to look past this one by Great Northern Popcorn Company as it is just fantastic. Its commercial-grade build makes use of brass and stainless steel to make this machine almost indestructible.
Besides the build quality, it has a heavy-duty 1/3-horsepower motor to ensure you get all the power you need for commercial use. And the fully adjustable stainless steel blades will ensure that the machine can handle almost any ice shaving job.
This commercial-grade machine is fast and efficient as it will deliver up to 350 pounds of shaved ice per hour and can handle ice blocks up to 8 inches wide. To make things even better, it will be effortless to take apart after use for easy cleanup.
When compared to other models on our shaved ice machine review, this machine is quite large and bulky. But for a commercial-grade model, this is expected. Moreover, you only need to get a dedicated spot for use it from and its bulk will never be an issue.
Pros:
- Superior quality machine
- Heavy-duty motor
- Fully adjustable and replaceable blades
- Fast and high capacity shaving
- Super-easy to clean
Cons:
- Quite bulky
4. Nostalgia SCM525BL – Perfect Size & Safe to Use
Photo: Nostalgia
- Capacity: 20 (8 ounce) cones
- Materials: Plastic
- Weight: 7 pounds
- Dimensions: 12 x 11 x 15.25 inches
The more compact size of this shaved ice machine by Nostalgia is one of the main elements that will draw many users to it. And what you will love about the compact size is that it will allow you to use it even on smaller countertops and side shelves.
Another factor that makes this one of the best electric shaved ice machines is its efficient and highly precise stainless steel blades that will deliver some nice fluffy shavings.
With the built-in safety switch, it will also be safer for the hands, and even kids can use it with little risk of accidents.
There is a spacious preparation shelf that will give you the space you need to prepare your ice cones. And when you buy this unit, you will also get a couple of plastic cones and a nice ice scoop.
This shaved ice machine can be quite loud, but this is typical of most budget shaved ice machines. To get something quieter, you would have to spend way much more cash.
Pros:
- More countertop and side shelf friendly size
- Durable blades and housing
- Safer for the hands
- Spacious side shelf
- Reusable plastic cones and ice scoop provided
Cons:
- Relatively louder
5. Cuisinart SCM-10P1 – Fast & Effortless Operation
Photo: Cuisinart
- Capacity: 4 to 5 cones/minute
- Materials: Plastic
- Weight: 7 pounds
- Dimensions: 9 x 9.2 x 12 inches
Cuisinart SCM-10P1 has been built to offer a fast and effortless operation, and it achieves this with and easy to set up design and simple flip switch operation. With this machine, you can make up to 5 cones in under a minute, which makes it one of the fastest on our shaved ice machine review.
Convenience is at the heart of the design as it has been built to work with regular ice cubes and simple syrups and juices. Also, there are recipes provided to ensure you know what to do.
The fold-down cone holders are handy as they make it easy to prepare your snow cones while the pull-out tray that can hold up to 4 cones will make storage and serving easy for you.
When you buy this machine, you will get 12 paper cones and 4 reusable plastic cones to get you started.
The plastic handle does not seem very sturdy, but as long as you do not put too much pressure on it, you should not have any trouble using it, and it should last long enough.
Pros:
- Faster and easier operation
- Makes some nice fluffy shavings
- Works well with regular ice cubes
- Convenient serving tray
- Fold-down cone holders included
Cons:
- Plastic handle is not very sturdy
6. Little Snowie 2 Ice Shaver – Professional-grade Home Shaver
Photo: Snowie
- Capacity: 64 ounces
- Materials: Plastic
- Weight: 11 pounds
- Dimensions: 0.6 x 2.8 x 10.2 inches
The professional-quality build that includes some top quality 304 stainless steel blades is what makes this Snowie machine one of the best automatic shaved ice machines out there. This machine has been engineered to meet commercial standards, and you can be confident it will never disappoint.
Also, it has one of the fastest shaving speeds on our list as it will deliver some perfectly fluffy shaving in as little as 3 seconds. Better yet, it uses regular ice cubes to eliminate the need to pre-freeze special ice holds.
Its conveniently compact size is an excellent trait as it makes it easy to carry, and also ensures it will take up little space on the counter or shelf. To crown it all up, you will get some free syrup samples and spoons to get you started.
This machine can be a little messy, and some users will find it extremely loud when shaving, but both are typical of these machines, and should hence not be the dealbreakers.
Pros:
- Well-built professional-quality shave
- Super-fast shaving
- Uses regular ice cubes
- Comes with free syrup samples and spoons
- Compact and convenient size
Cons:
- A little messy
- Can be quite loud
7. Zeny Ice Shaver Machine – Well-built & Eye-catching
Photo: Zeny
- Capacity: 143 lbs/hour
- Materials: Stainless steel
- Weight: 12.05 pounds
- Dimensions: 17 x 8 x 12 inches
The solid all stainless steel construction is the highlight of this Zeny shaver machine and it will ensure you use it for many years. Also, the ice machine has a stable cast base that will ensure that there is minimal vibration and noise when shaving.
Overall, the finish is highly attractive and will complement almost any kitchen décor and theme. Hence, you can be sure that this machine will not look awkward no matter where you place it.
Its more versatile design makes it ideal for use both at home and in different commercial establishments like canteens and cafes.
Operating the ice shaver should be more effortless as it has an easy to use and conveniently-located on/off control that has been designed to be water-resistant for long service life. And shaving is also fast and efficient as this machine will deliver up to 143 pounds in one hour.
Given the relatively smaller bowl size and the fact that the ice will come out shooting at an angle, this machine can make quite a mess. But, because the bowl is removable, you can replace it with something larger to minimize the mess.
Pros:
- Well-built and stable
- Attractive and decor-complementing finish
- Highly versatile design
- Easy to use on/off switch
- Fast and efficient shaving
Cons:
- Makes quite a mess
8. Zeny 300B – Versatile & Efficient
Photo: Zeny
- Capacity: 143 lbs/hour
- Materials: Stainless steel
- Weight: 11.55 pounds
- Dimensions: 17.5 x 8 x 12 inches
Whether you want a simple shaved ice machine for home use or a heavy-duty one for commercial use in a café or restaurant, Zeny 300B fits the bill. And while this versatility is what makes it one of the best electric ice shavers, it still has a lot more to offer.
The durable construction is one of these other impressive traits you get from this machine as it is built from an all stainless steel frame and with a stable heavy cast base. This base ensures that there will be minimal vibration when using the machine.
You can be sure that you will have an easy time when using this shaver as it will come with a water-resistant and easy-to-operate switch and more ergonomic design. This efficient machine will deliver up to 143 pounds of shaved ice per hour. And to crown it all up, it is also super easy to clean after use.
The shaved ice bowl will not hold a lot of ice, but it should still hold enough to make a couple or more snow cones. Also, noise is typical of these machines, and although this model seems a little louder, this only takes some getting used to.
Pros:
- Versatile enough for both home and commercial use
- Efficient and high output
- Durable and stable materials
- Easy to use and water-resistant switch
- Simple to clean up after use
Cons:
- Smaller bowl
- A little on the louder side
9. Hawaiian Shaved Ice S900A – Compact & Simple-to-Use
Photo: Hawaiian Shaved Ice
- Materials: Plastic
- Weight: 3 pounds
- Dimensions: 8 x 5.5 x 12 inches
Being one of the smallest shaved ice machines on our list, the Hawaiian Shaved Ice S900A will be an unbeatable choice for anyone looking for something that takes up as little counter space as possible and is also more portable.
Besides its small size, this ice shaver will come in a straightforward to assemble design that will allow you to set it up in just 3 steps, and using it is also quite straightforward.
This small ice shaver is build to be versatile as you can use it to make various kinds of ice treats from snow cones to margaritas and many others.
And you can always be confident of getting consistently fluffy shavings as the machine makes use of some precise and highly durable stainless steel blades.
While this shaved ice machine does not seem to work very well with regular ice cubes, this should not be a problem because it will come with the block ice molds that you need to make the ice cubes.
Pros:
- Smaller size takes up less space
- Straightforward to assemble and use
- Ideal for making different kinds of treats
- Precise and durable blades
Cons:
- Does not work well with regular ice cubes
10. Time for Treats VKP1100 – Reliable Treats Maker
Photo: Time for Treats
- Materials: Plastic
- Weight: 2.8 pounds
- Dimensions: 7 x 7 x 9.5 inches
If you are looking for a small and reliable shaver that will make it easy to make all your favorite treats, the VKP1100 will not disappoint. It shaves regular ice cubes fast and efficiently and also delivers some fluffy shavings to allow you to make your favorite treats.
The design is made for safety as the machine will include a safety switch. This switch ensures the machine will never operate when the lid is open, and hence minimizing the risk of accidents.
Also, the lid is semi-transparent to allow kids and other users to watch the shaving process, which besides being fun allows you to closely monitor the process.
And with the wide base design and the non-slip rubber feet, this will be a more stable machine, and you can be confident it will remain in place when shaving ice.
Given the smaller size of this shaved ice machine, it should be obvious that it will not make a lot of ice. However, for home use, the capacity is still okay.
Pros:
- Adjustable and replaceable blades
- Safe to use design
- Shaves fast and makes fluffy enough shavings
- Works with regular ice cubes
- Stable and non-slip design
Cons:
- Stable and non-slip design
How to Buy the Best Shaved Ice Machine
When shopping for the best shaved ice machine for home or commercial use, you need to keep the following points in mind.
1. Power
Power is always one of the first factors to consider when shopping for any appliance as it determines its efficiency and effectiveness.
While shaving ice might not require as much power as other appliances might need, you still need to make sure that the machine is powerful enough to handle the job.
A model with at least 110-volt and 300-watt motor is often good enough. That said, a 1,000-watt motor model like Little Snowie 2 Ice Shaver that will deliver up to 2.7 peak horsepower will be powerful enough for both home and commercial use.
2. Size and Capacity
The size and capacity of the shaved ice machine are more about personal preferences and needs, and so no one model will work for everyone.
A shaved ice machine should be compact and portable enough to ensure you can easily carry it around if you need to. Something that weighs under 20 pounds should be lightweight and compact enough.
For the capacity, a good shaved ice machine should be able to make several cups of shaved ice without the need to refill. Something that can make twenty 8-ounce ice cones like the Nostalgia SCM525BL or something close to this should be good enough.
3. Materials
Any ice shaving machine made from cheap material will always disappoint you as it will not serve you well or last long enough.
For the materials, you will need to consider both the housing and blade materials. Also, the material used to make other components like the hopper matters a lot.
Most of these shaved ice machines will be made with plastic housing, and the best ones are those with heavy gauge plastic. That said, there are still some models like Zeny Ice Shaver Machine made with stainless steel housing, which makes make them tougher and more durable.
When it comes to the blade material, stainless steel is the best option. Besides being durable, it will maintain a good edge longer than most other material options.
4. Safety to Use
Because kids and pets love playing around the kitchen and almost everywhere else you might want to put your shaved ice machine, it is important to make sure that the model you choose is safe.
A safe to use model is one that will not have the blades exposed as they are the most dangerous part of the machine.
Automatic models that are straightforward to operate at the push of a button and come in a more child and pet-friendly design will be the safest to use. A safety switch will also make the machine safer to use.
5. Accessories
Besides the ice shaving machine, there are still several accessories that you will need to use it. Hence, the best shaved ice machine is one that comes with as many accessories as possible.
Some of the most important accessories that you will need to include the ice cones, ice scoops, and a service bowl.
Many shaved ice machines like Little Snowie 2 Ice Shaver will come with some sample syrups to ensure that you will have everything you need to make and enjoy shaved ice.
6. Maintenance
Like any other appliance, you will need to maintain your shaved ice machine after use to prevent any contamination of the shaved ice. Hence, when picking out one, you need to make sure that it is designed to be easy to maintain.
Models that are easy to take apart and do not have any hard to reach nooks and crannies, will give you an easier time when it comes to the maintenance.
Conclusion
If you love snow cones, frozen cocktails, snowballs or even just plain shaved ice, you can be sure that there is a machine on our list that will help you make it quickly and easily. All, you need now is to choose what suits your preferences from our shaved ice machine review.
For the budget shoppers looking for something highly affordable and want a machine that they can easily carry around and will take up little space, the Dash DSIM100GBAQ02 is our recommendation.
That said, the Nostalgia RSM602 is our best overall because, despite coming at a fairly affordable price tag, it also has some durable stainless steel blades, good capacity and a safety switch that makes it safer to use.