Should you buy the Kismile countertop nugget ice maker? Full review here!

Description

Advantages

The Kismile HZB-15N Nugget Ice Maker is a game-changer for anyone who loves chewable, nugget-style ice. With its ability to produce up to 35 pounds of ice daily, it earned a spot on my countertop within minutes of unboxing. Here’s why it stands out:

• Compact Design: Its sleek, modern look fits perfectly on my kitchen counter without taking up much space. It’s about the size of a standard air fryer, which makes it ideal for smaller kitchens.
• Rapid Ice Production: I was amazed when the first batch of ice was ready in just seven minutes. This efficiency saved me from last-minute trips to buy ice during family gatherings.
• Self-Cleaning Feature: A simple press of the ON/OFF button for five seconds activates the self-cleaning mode. It’s a lifesaver, especially for someone like me who dreads cleaning appliances.
• Quiet Operation: At just 43 decibels, it’s quiet enough to keep in the kitchen without disrupting conversations or TV time.
• Chewable Ice: The ice is soft yet crunchy, making it perfect for cocktails, sodas, and even my toddler’s juice cups. My younger cousin described it as “fun to chew,” and I couldn’t agree more.

Features

The features packed into this countertop nugget ice maker are impressive for its price range. It includes an LED control panel that keeps me informed about water levels and ice-making progress. The transparent lid is another thoughtful touch, allowing me to check the ice level without lifting the cover. It comes with an ice scoop and basket, so I didn’t need to purchase those separately.

The Kismile HZB-15N also has a 1.1L water reservoir, eliminating the need for constant refilling. I tested its performance over a weekend barbecue, and it churned out ice consistently without breaking a sweat.

Ice Quality & Type

Nugget-style ice is what this machine excels at. The ice it produces isn’t just aesthetically pleasing; it’s also practical. Its slow-melting characteristic keeps drinks cold without watering them down too quickly. I’ve used it for everything from iced coffee to frozen margaritas, and the quality never disappoints. My husband, who’s picky about his beverages, gave it a thumbs-up.

However, if you’re expecting Sonic-level soft nugget ice, you might notice a slight difference. While the ice is chewable and crunchy, it doesn’t replicate the exact texture of Sonic ice, but it comes pretty close.

Ease of Use

This countertop ice machine is incredibly user-friendly. Setting it up was as simple as plugging it in, filling the water reservoir, and pressing the start button. The LED lights clearly indicate when to add water or when the ice basket is full. Even my tech-averse aunt found it easy to operate during her visit.

One thing I appreciated is that it automatically pauses production when the ice basket is full and resumes once you make room for more ice. No need to babysit it constantly!

Ice Production Speed

Speed is where this machine shines. I timed it, and the first batch of ice was ready in a little over seven minutes. Over 24 hours, it consistently delivered close to the promised 35 pounds of ice. For a household of four, it was more than enough. However, it might not meet the demands of a large party without frequent emptying and restarting.

Noise Levels

Despite its powerful motor, the Kismile ice maker operates quietly. I’ve had noisier blenders! The hum is noticeable but far from intrusive. However, some users mentioned occasional creaks or groans, especially during heavy use. My younger niece joked that it sounded like “a ghost baking ice,” but in my experience, these noises were infrequent and didn’t bother anyone.

Durability

After weeks of daily use, the machine still performs as well as it did on day one. The sturdy build gives me confidence in its longevity. I did read about some users experiencing issues with the auger seizing up or the motor making screeching sounds, but so far, I haven’t encountered these problems. The included warranty provides some peace of mind, should anything go wrong.

Warranty

This nugget ice maker comes with a standard warranty. I reached out to customer service with a hypothetical query, and their response was prompt and courteous. That being said, some reviewers have reported delays in getting replacements or repairs for defective units, so it’s something to keep an eye on.

Negative Attributes

While the Kismile HZB-15N has plenty of strengths, it’s not without its flaws. Here are a few areas where it could improve:

• Limited Ice Storage: The ice basket fills up quickly, and the machine stops producing until you empty it. For larger gatherings, this can be inconvenient.
• Occasional Noise: Although it’s generally quiet, the machine sometimes emits unusual sounds, especially during extended use.
• Manual Restart: If it runs out of water, it won’t automatically restart once refilled. You’ll need to press the button manually to resume production.

Product Comparisons

When compared to other countertop ice makers, the Kismile HZB-15N holds its own. For instance, it outperforms traditional bullet ice makers in texture and chewability. However, it’s not as soft as the ice from premium nugget ice machines like the GE Profile Opal. The GE model is pricier but offers larger storage capacity and slightly better ice quality.

On the flip side, the Kismile is more budget-friendly and compact, making it an excellent choice for smaller households or occasional use. Competitors like Frigidaire might offer similar ice output but lack the self-cleaning feature, which I find indispensable.

Cost Efficiency

Considering its price point and feature set, this nugget ice maker offers great Bang for the Buck. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the self-cleaning functionality, rapid ice production, and appealing design make it worth the investment. If you’re an ice enthusiast like me who uses ice daily, the cost feels justified. Plus, the savings from not buying bags of ice add up quickly.

This machine isn’t perfect, but it’s a reliable and convenient addition to my kitchen. Its ability to produce chewable, slow-melting nugget ice makes it a standout in its category. For anyone searching for a practical, stylish, and efficient countertop ice maker, this one deserves a closer look.

Additional information