10 Best Shaved Ice Machines in 2022 (Chef-Reviewed)
We've done our research and selected our 10 favorite shaved ice machines. Our number one recommendation is the Little Snowie Max Snow Cone Machine for its speed, compact size, convenience, and powdery snow. Keep reading for our buying guide, which will help you figure out which shaved ice machine is best for you.
Quick List - Top Shaved Ice Machines
Jim Quast (JQ) is a lifelong professional restaurant and corporate R&D chef who loves everything food-related and the tools, both big and small, to make those great food memories. He's a super huge BBQ, grill, and kitchen gadget fanatic. JQ has spent the last 30+ years trying to figure out what works to make your kitchen life easier and fun. If you can use it to slice it, dice it, cook it, smoke it, or store it, he's been there checking it out. Food = Life!
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How to Choose a Shaved Ice Machine – Buying Guide
Shaved ice machines run the spectrum from tiny plastic machines to gigantic metal machines that can shave hundreds of pounds of ice per hour. This guide will help you find the product that meets your needs.
Decide Between Block or Cubed Ice
Some shaved ice machines require a solid block of ice, while others can shave regular ice cubes. To decide which type of ice is best for you, think about ice accessibility, machine storage, and desired snow consistency.
Block Shaved Ice Machines Make the Fluffiest Snow
For block shaved ice machines, you need a solid block of ice. Shaving from a perfectly flat surface yields perfect snow: fluffy and smooth shaved ice with no crunch. Because block shaved ice is so fine and consistent, the syrup will be evenly distributed and absorb well.
Unfortunately, blocks of ice can be hard to find. See if there are any local wholesale ice suppliers and check with restaurant and party supply companies. You can make your own instead, but you'll need big ice molds, ample freezer space, and time. Additionally, these machines are larger and heavier and not as easy to operate.
Cube Shaved Ice Machines Are Easy to Use
The caveat is the consistency of the shaved ice. Most ice cubes are irregular in shape and don't have a perfectly smooth surface. This means that about five percent of the shaved ice will contain little pieces of ice, resulting in a bit of a crunchy texture.
Electronic for Easy and Fast Use, Manual for a Hands-On Experience
Electronic shaved ice machines require power, but all you have to do is plug them in and you'll get a lot of snow in very little time.
Take a look at the energy consumption of your machine, for safety purposes and for electricity budgeting. Check the specifications for wattage to figure out the maximum amount of power the machine uses. Make sure your outlet can accommodate the shaved ice machine plus any other appliances, so you don't overload the outlet or cause the machine to overheat.
Manual machines require you to crank the ice yourself. These are slower relative to electronic machines, but shaving by hand can be a really fun and safe hands-on experience for kids of all ages!
Since you don't need a power source, you can easily take a manual shaved ice machine anywhere and enjoy shaved ice treats on the beach or at a picnic or barbecue, for example. Manual machines are also easier to store since they are smaller, lighter, and less bulky.
Match the Material to Your Situation
Most shaved ice machines have stainless steel blades, but the rest of the machine and its parts can be made of a variety of materials.
Stainless Steel Lasts Longer
Stainless steel is a durable material that is naturally rust-resistant, so a stainless steel shaved ice machine should last a long time.
However, keep in mind that a stainless steel machine will be heavier and less convenient to store and transport. Another downside is that stainless steel shows dirt and smudges.
Plastic Is Good for Convenience and Kids
A shaved ice machine that is primarily plastic will be lighter, portable, and storable. If you're planning for kids to use the shaved ice machine, plastic is a safe and manageable option. Unfortunately, not all plastics are sturdy, so depending on the material, a plastic shaved ice machine may be less durable and flimsy parts could break more easily.
Additionally, there are health concerns about chemicals in plastic, so look for BPA-free plastic machines. At the very least, any machine parts that come in contact with the ice should be BPA-free.
Like any electrical appliance, shaved ice machines should be kept away from water hazards, but take extra caution to make sure a plastic shaved machine isn't exposed to heat sources.
For both plastic and stainless steel machines, see if the company sells replacement blades. Blades need to remain sharp to keep producing consistent shaved ice. Also check if your machine comes with a warranty.
Find a Size That Fits Your Space and Serving Needs
Think about where you will use and store your shaved ice machine. You may want a machine on the smaller side, depending on the size of your kitchen and the amount of counter space. The smallest we've seen is only five inches wide and eight inches tall!
If you don't plan on leaving your shaved ice machine out on the counter when it's not in use, make sure you have a cabinet or other storage area that will accommodate this appliance.
Also, consider how much shaved ice you'll need at once. If you're only going to be making one or two shaved ice treats at a time, then a smaller machine might work perfectly for you. If you're going to be serving a lot of people, you'll want a bigger machine with a big chamber or bowl for collecting the ice.
If you plan on making a lot of shaved ice, plan ahead and have enough ice blocks or cubes frozen and ready to go. Single servings may only need about 15 standard ice cubes worth of ice, but commercial machines can utilize a six-inch ice block or larger!
Keep an Eye Out for Safety Features Like Shields and Lids
Since shaved ice machines use sharp blades, it's important to make sure the product you choose has safety features, especially if kids will be using the machine.
Look for machines that protect hands from the blades, with features like safety lids and safety shields. Some machines have completely closed-off compartments that house the blades. Others are designed to turn on only if the lid is properly placed.
Also, look for machines that have an on/off switch, preferably one that's waterproof, and that don’t turn on immediately when plugged in.
Another consideration is the base of the machine. Non-skid feet or a non-slip base will help minimize vibration and keep the machine steady.
Add on Shaved Ice Accessories Like Syrups and More
Don't forget accessories you'll need to flavor and serve your shaved ice treats. If you plan to make your own ice, you'll need ice molds for block ice or ice cube trays. For serving, there are different bowls, cones, cups, and other dishes, plus utensils such as spoons, straws, and spoon-straws.
For flavoring, you have two options: You can buy ready-to-use syrups or make your own. If you choose the DIY route, you'll need flavor concentrates, simple syrup, preservatives, and mixing bottles.
Syrup bottles may come with flip-top caps or pumps for easy pouring. If not, you can look for bottle pourers, which are plastic spouts that you can insert into the mouth of a bottle.
How to Choose a Shaved Ice Machine – Buying Guide
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Snowie Little Snowie Max Snow Cone Machine | | Overall Best Shaved Ice Machine for Home | |
2 | VivoHome Electric Ice Shaver | | Best Stainless Steel Shaved Ice Machine | |
3 | Nostalgia Countertop Snow Cone Maker｜RSM602 | | Best Shaved Ice Machine Easy for Kids to Use | |
4 | Cuisinart Snow Cone Maker｜SCM100 | | Best Shaved Ice Machine for Parties | |
5 | Great Northern Electric Shaved Ice and Snow Cone Maker | | Best Commercial-Grade Shaved Ice Machine | |
6 | Hawaiian Shaved Ice Snow Cone Machine｜S700 | | Best Shaved Ice Machine to Use With Your Kids | |
7 | Great Northern Popcorn Polar Pal Block Ice Shaver and Snow Cone Maker｜6060 | | Best Lighter-Weight Commercial Shaved Ice Machine | |
8 | MANBA Ice Shaver and Snow Cone Machine ｜MA1001 | | Best Manual, Portable Shaved Ice Machine | |
9 | Hawaiian Shaved Ice Hand Crank Ice Shaver｜S900A | | Best Shaved Ice Machine With Every Accessory You Need | |
10 | Doshisha Full-Scale Electric Ice Crusher｜ DCSP-20 | | Best Japanese Shaved Ice Machine |
Snowie Little Snowie Max Snow Cone Machine
Overall Best Shaved Ice Machine for Home
- Compact size ideal for at-home use
- Uses standard ice cubes for quick convenience
- High-quality stainless steel blade
- Makes one serving in only three seconds
Cons:
- It's loud, according to reviewers
Although this is for at-home use and utilizes ice cubes, it makes very fine and fluffy snow! It can make one serving of shaved ice in only three seconds thanks to a high-quality stainless steel blade and it comes with six syrup mixes, syrup bottles, and reusable shovel spoons.
Some buyers complained that this machine was too loud. However, the majority were happy that this machine made snowy shaved ice so quickly. It was user-friendly and safe, even for kids. Several mentioned that the handle and size made it convenient to carry and store.
Best Stainless Steel Shaved Ice Machine
- Durable stainless steel design
- Many included safety features, such as a sturdy base, auto shutoff, and rubber feet
- Fairly compact, doubles for commercial and at-home use
- Shaves ice quickly; able to produce 143 pounds of shaved ice per hour
Cons:
- The ice-receiving tray is quite shallow and doesn't hold that much ice
This machine is equally quick and efficient. It can produce 143 pounds of shaved ice per hour. It's made of corrosion-free stainless steel, so it's strong and sturdy. It produces enough ice to be suitable for commercial use, although it's still small enough for home use.
A few buyers found tiny metal pieces in their shaved ice and warn to be careful of the handle getting too close to the blades, as this seems to cause it. Most, however, described the machine as heavy-duty, powerful, and durable, and they appreciated how quickly it made fluffy ice.
Best Shaved Ice Machine Easy for Kids to Use
- Available in three colors
- Convenient side shelf that holds two finished snow cones as you make others
- Can hold up to 20 cones' worth of snow in the chamber at a time
- Useful safety features such as a closed compartment, safety switch, and a locking lid
Cons:
- Some reviewers would have preferred a drain for the melted ice once finished
Impress your family or guests with this retro shaved ice machine which holds enough shaved ice for 20 eight-ounce snow cones. A handy shelf on the side is perfect for prepping your snow cones. The machine comes with two reusable plastic cones and an ice scoop.
Some buyers said that the door to the ice chamber was hard to open and prone to breaking. Others said they would have liked the chamber to have a drain to get rid of melted ice once you're finished. But overall, most reviewers thought the machine was both cute and functional, and kid-friendly.
Best Shaved Ice Machine for Parties
- Can make up to five snow cones in less than a minute, making it ideal for a crowd
- Contains fold-down side shelves to hold four snow cones as you make others
- The machine will not start until everything is in place, which is a great safety feature
- Comes with four BPA-free plastic cones, 12 paper cones, and an ice scoop
Cons:
- Some reviewers complained about the plastic design, saying it could crack
This lightweight shaved ice machine can make four to five snow cones within a minute, making it ideal for parties. Trays on both sides fold down to hold four cones for easy serving. As a bonus, you'll get four BPA-free reusable plastic cones, 12 paper cones, and an ice scoop.
All parts of the machine that the ice touches are BPA-free. However, some reviewers still didn't like the plastic, saying it was flimsy and could crack. Most were satisfied with the shaving speed and the compact size, saying it was perfect for their get-togethers and parties. Several also touted the ease of operation and clean-up.
Great NorthernElectric Shaved Ice and Snow Cone Maker
Best Commercial-Grade Shaved Ice Machine
- Adjustable stainless steel blades to change how fine your ice shaves
- Contains a heavy-duty, commercial motor; 1/3 horsepower and 1,725 revolutions per minute
- Comes with a safety shield to fit over the ice block
- Shaves a six-pound block of ice in only one minute
Cons:
- Some reviewers would have preferred it came with a mold to make the preferred-size ice block
- Weighs a lot
Great Northern Ice Cub Shaved Ice Machine is a great commercial machine, able to shave six pounds of ice per minute with its professional, heavy-duty motor. It comes with a safety shield to cover the ice and hooks up to a foot pedal for convenience, though that is sold separately.
Overall, reviewers loved the quality of the machine, saying it produced fluffy, fine snow and was very easy to use. A lot of customers said it's even easier to use if you purchase the optional foot pedal. However, a few reviewers say it's hard to return the product and the company's customer service is lackluster.
Hawaiian Shaved Ice Snow Cone Machine ｜ S700
Best Shaved Ice Machine to Use With Your Kids
- Made of BPA-free plastic
- Adjustable blade to change your shaved ice's texture
- Safety features such as a locking lid, and the machine won't turn on unless all parts are in place
- Its hands-free and safe design make it ideal to use with kids
Cons:
- Some reviewers complained the machine was too loud
This BPA-free and kid-friendly machine uses centrifugal force to churn out shaved ice in any consistency you desire. You just need to use a Phillips screwdriver to adjust the blade to change the texture and the speed.
Some buyers complained that the machine wasn't powerful enough and made a screeching noise, although many said this hands-free machine was as kid-friendly and safe as advertised. They liked the light and fluffy ice, the size, and the easy cleanup.
Great Northern PopcornPolar Pal Block Ice Shaver and Snow Cone Maker ｜ 6060
Best Lighter-Weight Commercial Shaved Ice Machine
- Weighs half as much as their Ice Cub model
- Adjustable stainless steel blade to change how fine your ice shaves
- Has a heavy-duty, commercial motor; 1/3 horsepower, 1725 revolutions per minute
- Comes with a safety shield and easy carry handle
- Shaves six pounds per minute
Cons:
- Some reviewers say it's a bit complicated for beginners to use
For those who want a commercial machine but want something a little lighter and more convenient, the Polar Pal gives you an industrial-style machine that weighs less and has a useful carry handle. It still shaves an impressive six pounds of ice per minute and includes an adjustable blade.
A few people thought that it was a little too complicated for beginners to use, but a lot of reviewers really liked the adjustable blade, which allows for perfect snow with no ice chips or chunks.
Best Manual, Portable Shaved Ice Machine
Pros:
- Contains three high-quality stainless steel blades
- Compact and portable for shaved ice anywhere you go, like beaches or picnics
- Manual crank makes electricity unnecessary
- Comes with an ice cube tray
Cons:
- Some reviewers complained about plastic pieces in the shaved ice
This manual, portable machine has three precision-cut blades to quickly shave ice into fluffy snow. You can modify the shaved ice consistency by altering the amount of pressure you put on the lid as you crank. It's made of BPA-free plastic and comes with a silicone ice cube tray.
Some buyers reported that the machine began shaving its own plastic pieces into the ice. There were mixed reviews on the consistency, too; some said that it made coarse crushed, not shaved, ice. But a lot of reviewers loved how convenient and portable this little machine was.
Hawaiian Shaved IceHand Crank Ice Shaver ｜ S900A
Best Shaved Ice Machine With Every Accessory You Need
- Stainless steel blade to shave fine, fluffy ice with cubes or ice blocks
- Amazon listing comes with everything you need to get started: 3 syrups, 25 paper cups, 25 spoon straws, bottle pour toppers, and ice block molds
- Safety features such as closed compartment and non-slip rubber pad
Cons:
- Some reviewers complained about the motor being too weak
This product is ideal when you want everything in one package: syrups, cups, spoons, and more. It has high-quality stainless steel blades and a closed compartment for extra safety. If you're not interested in all the extras, Walmart sells the machine by itself, too.
There were some complaints that it broke down quickly, but most Amazon reviewers love the included syrups and cups, saying it brings out their inner child and makes for a wonderful treat night. They also said it makes a fine, snowy consistency.
DoshishaFull-Scale Electric Ice Crusher ｜ DCSP-20
Best Japanese Shaved Ice Machine
- Adjustable blade makes both extremely fluffy snow and coarse, crunchy ice
- Retro design looks like a Japanese festival shaved ice machine
- Comes with two ice block molds
Cons:
- It will run safely on US voltage, but to preserve the motor's life, a step-down converter is recommended
- Instruction manual is in Japanese
This electric shaved ice machine is modeled after the kind you can find at Japanese summer festivals. You can adjust the blade before you pull down on the lever to get shaved ice ranging in texture from soft and fluffy to hard and crunchy. It also comes with two ice block molds.
With only two included custom molds, you can make only a small amount of shaved ice unless you freeze multiple blocks in advance. The instructions are in Japanese, but reviewers say the machine is intuitive and easy to use. Buyers loved the powdery, fluffy snow.
How to Make the Perfect Shaved Ice
Buying the perfect shaved ice machine is the first step. To make perfect shaved ice, check out these tips:
Start with ice that’s been left out for a few minutes because it’ll shave better once it starts to “sweat.” If you're using a block of ice, make sure the surface is completely smooth. For sanitary reasons, consider using gloves or tongs to load the ice into the machine.
As the shaved ice comes out of the machine, gently guide it into the cup or cone with your hands as you slowly rotate the cup or cone, being very careful not to pack the ice down. If you have a machine that requires you to scoop the ice from a bowl or tray into a cup or cone, do so gently so it stays airy!
To get good flavor coverage, start by pouring around the edges and simultaneously rotate the cup, not the syrup bottle, then work your way to the top and middle. If you're feeling extra professional, try punching deep holes in the ice before you add the syrup so the flavoring will be thoroughly distributed.
Frequently Asked Questions
We've tried to help you out by answering more common questions about shaved ice machines.
How do I clean my shaved ice machine?
Maintain your shaved ice machine for cleanliness and longevity. Consult the manual for cleaning dos and don'ts for your specific machine. Before you use your machine for the first time, wipe down each part. Be careful of the blades. After each use, unplug the machine before cleaning. Get rid of any remaining water and ice. Then, make sure all parts are dried to prevent rust and bacteria build up.
Some manufactures say drying the machine off with a cloth is sufficient if you've used only ice made from water. For a more thorough cleaning, first use a cloth dampened with warm or hot water. Next, manufacturers recommend using a mild soap or detergent or spraying each part with a mixture of one part water and one part vinegar. Then wipe down again with a wet cloth.
More Ideas for Refreshing Icy Treats
Check out our buying guides below to help you stock up on all the supplies you need for a sunny and sweet summer, whether you're slurping up a slushie, biting into a juicy slice of watermelon, or indulging in homemade ice cream.
Top 5 Shaved Ice Machines
No. 1: Snowie｜ Little Snowie Max Snow Cone Machine
No. 2: VivoHome｜Electric Ice Shaver
No. 3: Nostalgia｜Countertop Snow Cone Maker｜RSM602
No. 4: Cuisinart ｜Snow Cone Maker｜SCM100
No. 5: Great Northern｜Electric Shaved Ice and Snow Cone Maker
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.