When it comes down to choosing between Scotsman nugget ice vs. cube ice, it’s all about how you plan on using it. Are you a chef, a host, or just looking for a way to cool your drinks? If you’re on the fence about which one to go for, we’ve got a handy list of pros and cons to guide you through the decision-making process.

Pros and Cons of Scotsman Nugget Ice vs. Cube Ice

When picking between nugget and cube ice, it’s all about what floats your boat. Nugget ice, also known as “chewable” or “pebble” ice, is small and soft, making it a hit with restaurants and bars for drinks and those who like to munch on ice. On the other hand, Cube ice is bigger and harder, making it a better fit for drinks that need to be cooled down fast, like cocktails or soda.

Nugget Ice vs. Cube Ice: Which Is Better?

Nugget ice from Scotsman is similar to the ice from fast food joints, perfect for mixed drinks. On the other hand, their cube ice is known for not melting as fast, making it ideal for those hot summer days. So which is better?

scotsman nugget ice
Photo Courtesy of Scotsman

Pros of Nugget Ice

  • Chewable and soft.
  • Easily fits into any cup or container.
  • Absorbs the flavor of any liquid.
  • Cools down drinks faster.

Cons of Nugget Ice

  • Melts fast.
  • Not ideal for storing near food items.
  • Waters down drinks.
Scotsman cube ice
Photo Courtesy of Scotsman

Pros of Cube Ice

  • Melts more slowly than nugget ice.
  • Large and clear.
  • Doesn’t absorb odor.
  • Takes longer to dilute drinks.

Cons of Cube Ice

  • Not as versatile to use in food and drink recipes.
  • Don’t fit in all containers.
  • Ice makers can’t produce as much as fast.

Which Is Better for Cooking?

When it comes to cooking, both nuggets and cube ice have their own set of perks. Nugget ice, being small and soft, is a real lifesaver when blending and pureeing in a food processor or blender. It’s perfect for whipping up smoothies, frozen drinks, and other blended dishes. Plus, it’s great for making ice cream, sorbet, and other frozen desserts.

As for cube ice, it’s larger and harder, making it perfect for keeping food fresh and chilled. It’s also a great option for crushing for a finer texture in various recipes. For instance, you can use it to make crushed ice for drinks or a coarse texture for frozen cocktails and mocktails. In short, both nugget and cube ice can be used for cooking, it’s just a matter of what recipe and texture you’re aiming for.

Whichever ice you decide on, it’s crucial to maintain your Scotsman icemaker properly. Scotsman recommends cleaning or sanitizing your ice maker every six months to ensure it runs efficiently. Keeping your ice maker in tip-top shape is crucial if you want it to keep churning out high-quality ice.

Scotsman recommends routinely cleaning your ice maker and the condenser coils. By following these tips, you’ll be able to keep your ice maker in good working order and ensure it lasts for a long time.

If you run into problems with your Scotsman ice maker or have questions, call the Scotsman repair experts at Don Bacon Appliance today.