We know that store-bought items always taste good and a no-hassle ice cone can give a refreshing effect. But having this baby in your home means you can make ice cones or slushies and drinks whenever you want! Makes it pretty interesting, don’t you think?
What I have below are 10 of the best-shaved ice machines that can provide you with the perfect ice cone at a snap of your fingers:
The Coolest-Shaved Ice Machines In 2020
| PRODUCT | CAPACITY | BEST FOR | HIGHLIGHTED FEATURES |
 Nostalgia SCM525BL Vintage Countertop |
20 snow cones | Best Overall |
|
 Hawaiian S900A |
3 – 5 snow cones | Best Budget Pick |
|
 Little Snowie 2 Ice Shaver |
2 – 3 snow cones | Best for Homecooks |
|
 Cuisinart SCM-10 Red |
4 – 5 snow cones | Best for Parties |
|
1. Nostalgia SCM525BL Vintage Countertop
Highlighted Features
- Stainless steel blades
- Makes 20 snow cones
- 360-degree view
- Safety switch
You can definitely bring your party indoors with this adorable machine that has precision-cut stainless steel blades, a 360-degree clear view of the ice being shaved from all angles and a 20 cone capacity. With this countertop unit, you can serve from the ice storage bin, and prepare the cones on the handy cone shelf.
Construction: This electric ice cone shaver machine has a plastic body and stainless steel cutting blades. It also has a chamber that gives a clear view from all sides. It also includes a side shelf to hold 2 snow cones. A safety switch is also in-built in the shaving mechanism. An ice scoop and 2 reusable plastic cones are added as accessories. It has the capacity to make 20 snow cones at a time.
Function: You can create a number of refreshing and delicious drinks whether you have an indoor or outdoor party. The stainless steel cutting blades work at lightning speed, and very efficiently, to cut the ice with precision giving you extremely fluffy snow-like ice. You can make great frozen treats with it that your whole family would love. You just need to fill the top with ice cubes, then secure the lid, and see the snow fly.
20 snow cone capacity is perfect for party time or snack time. You also get accessories like 2 reusable snow cones and an ice scoop to easily serve snow cones. It also has a suitable size to either be placed on the kitchen countertop or a side table so that you can conveniently serve snow cones wherever you want.
Safety: There is an in-built safety switch in the shaving mechanism to keep your hands safe from getting injured.
Pros
- Classic design
- Great capacity
- Shaves ice at great speed
- Convenient design for countertop
- Safe to use
Cons
- A little bulky for storage
- Plastic body prone to damage
2. Hawaiian S900A
Highlighted Features
- Stainless steel blades
- 2 round block ice molds
- Compact size
- Non-slip mat
You can give your kids a wonderful treat with this amazing Hawaiian Shaved Ice S900A which makes it just a matter of minutes to make healthy, refreshing treats at home. It is just what you need to create your dreamy desserts with fluffy snow and top it with your desired flavors. It is quite easy to get 3 to 5 ice servings with no cleanup hassle at all.
Construction: This electric S900A shaved ice and snow cone machine has a 3-piece easy-to-assemble design. It also has 2 round block ice molds and a non-slip mat. It has a plastic body and a stainless steel blade. The design is compact to be easily tucked under the counter or to place in a cabinet.
Function: This is a simple to use machine with which you can make shaved ice, snow cones, snowballs, slushies, margaritas and a lot more. It is perfect for preparing cool treats for small pool parties, birthday parties, sleepovers or friends & family get togethers. You simply have to place ice in the machine, adjust the motor unit on top, plug into a source and start shaving the ice.
Safety: It is advised to read and follow the instructions in the owner’s manual for safe use and operation.
Pros
- Precision-cut blades
- Perfect for making a variety of treats
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to use and operate
- Easy to store
Cons
- A bit noisy
- Does not have a large capacity
3. Little Snowie 2 Ice Shaver
Highlighted Features
- Commercial precision blade
- Safety lid
- Dome shaper
- Big motor
Little Snowie 2 ice shaver surely accomplishes BIG tasks with the ease you could never imagine. On a hot summer day, you are in for a huge treat of sweet and sugary blast of nostalgia with every cup of refreshing shaved ice. Little Snowie can make a wide variety of stuff ranging from mixed frozen drinks like margaritas, pina coladas, and strawberry daiquiri’s, to korean bingsu, frozen lemonade, and cold brew coffee. Celebrate all the parties in style with this little beauty!
Construction: This machine has a plastic build with 301 stainless steel blades having 10 edges and a powerful high-speed 1000 watt motor. This means it has power, durability, and speed. Its compact size is convenient for easy transportation, cleaning, and storage.
Function: For making your birthdays, parties, family reunions, office get-togethers and a lot of other occasions memorable, you absolutely have to go for little smoothies. You can make a wide variety of drinks or toppings with the ice that is shaved. Be it the simple treat of shaved ice in which you can add pure cane sugar, sugar-free or natural line flavored syrups or iced fruitade of sweet and refreshing lemonade with a half cup of shaved iced from Little Snowie. You can also make a wide variety of mixed drink flavors and shaved ice simultaneously.
What is more awesome than iced desserts! Fill a bowl with shaved ice, scoop your favorite ice cream in it and top it with fruit and sweetened condensed milk. Voila!
The question arises: how to make the shaved ice? You don’t have to go through the hassle of planning out pre-frozen, specially shaped ice that takes a lot of space in your freezer. Simply use regular ice cubes for getting the shaved ice. You can use the built-in shaper to fill your cup and mold the shaved ice into a perfect dome top onto your cup. There are hundreds of delicious sugar-free shaved ice syrups and concentrated flavor options available with Little Snowie.
Safety: There is a safety precaution for operating the machine safely. The ice shaver will not work if the lid is not fully pressed down. Therefore, when you are using it, not even the tiniest of fingers can get near the blade or spin paddle.
Pros
- Blades provide extra, full hard temper
- Makes a variety of drinks
- Wide range of syrup options
- Safe operation with a secure lid
- Compact size for easy portability
Cons
- A little noisy
4. Cuisinart SCM-10 Red
Highlighted Features
- Professional-grade material
- 4 to 5 cones in a minute
- 2 fold-down cold holders
- Pull-out service tray
- Safety interlock feature
Cuisinart SCM-10 is one of the best snow cone makers as it is pleasant to look upon, safe to operate, and lets you make your own frozen lemonades, smoothies, snow cones, and other tasty cool drinks that require the touch of shaved ice. Not only this, but it is also super fast as it can make 4 to 5 snow cones in less than one minute. Besides, you also get recipes with this machine for preparing common ice flavors.
Construction: All the parts that come in contact with food in this machine are BPA free. This lightweight appliance has an interlock feature for its motor, blades, and tray. The blades are made of stainless steel. There is also a detachable ice bin that helps in easy maintenance.
Function: This incredibly easy and safe to operate machine creates perfect shaved ice and snow cones for your refreshment. Besides ice cubes, you can also feed it juices or syrups according to your needs. In order to use it, you simply have to flip the ON/OFF switch. This unit is easy to assemble and super fast as it makes 4 to 5 snow cones in just one minute. It is also very easy to assemble. The lightweight of the unit makes it easy to transport anywhere you want.
Therefore, it is very handy whether you have an indoor/outdoor party, pool party, picnic, or for any other occasion. Enjoy the real shaved ice for snow cones, slushies, frozen lemonade, or other drinks.
Safety: Cuisinart SCM-10 has an interlock safety feature for the motor, blades, and pull-out serving tray. Therefore, it ensures safe operation.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Superfast speed
- Recipes provided
- Lightweight and safe operation
- Easy maintenance
Cons
- The electric cord is too short
5. Nostalgia RSM602 Countertop
Highlighted Features
- Stainless steel cutting blades
- Shelf to hold 2 cones
- 2 reusable cones & scoop
- Makes 20 snow cones
- 360-degree viewing chamber
Nostalgia RSM602 Countertop snow cone maker can brighten your parties by creating delicious and refreshing shaved ice drinks. Your whole family will fall in love with the frozen treats that this machine can help you make.
Construction: This wonderful snow cone maker has a BPA-free plastic body and stainless steel cutting blades. There is a clear chamber as well that gives a 360-degree view. A built-in safety switch is also present. This machine works with all Nostalgia snow cone kits. A side shelf with the capacity of holding 2 cones is also there. You should try this shaved ice maker with Nostalgia snow cone kit and snow cone syrups. Add that shaved ice into the cups and add a straw that comes in the kit to have a refreshing and flavored drink.
Function: Party time or snack time becomes excitingly cool with Nostalgia RSM602. You can make as many wonderful treats as you want for your family and friends because this machine has the capacity to make 20 snow cones at a time. What is more exciting is that you can watch your regular ice being shaved with the 360-degree viewing chamber. The precision stainless steel blades work quickly and efficiently to transform ice into fluffy, delicious snow.
It is lightweight and also has a perfect size for placing it either on the countertop or a small side table. Besides, you have a side shelf that can hold 2 cones and you can easily add your favorite syrup. You get 2 reusable plastic snow cones and an ice scoop as accessories.
Safety: There is a safety switch that is in-built to keep your hands safe.
Pros
- Made with BPA-free plastic
- Makes ample number of cones
- Classic attractive design
- Lightweight and portable
- Safe usage
- Easy to clean and use
Cons
- Plastic top handle
- Very noisy
6. Avalanche Electric VKP1100
Highlighted Features
- Stainless steel blades
- Safety switch
- Uses regular ice cubes
- Makes fast treats
Avalanche Electric shaver is a perfect product for you to make party drinks, slushies, snow cones, and other frozen treats. For your convenience, you don’t need any special ice molds for making ice as this machine uses regular ice cubes. Moreover, there is a safety switch that allows the motor to run only when the lid is closed.
Construction: This machine has a plastic body and stainless steel blades that are adjustable & replaceable. A built-in safety switch for protection is also there.
Function: Avalanche by Victoria doesn’t need a mold or any special ice. You just have to open the lid and fill the hopper with regular ice cubes. Then, you need to push down on the hopper lid securely to start the process of shaving ice, since the Avalanche has a safety mechanism that does not allow the machine to start if the lid is not properly secured. Finally, you need to add some syrup to enjoy the delicious shaved ice.
Safety: A safety feature is present that prevents the motor from running if the lid is closed.
Pros
- Great simple design
- Small and lightweight
- Adjustable, stainless steel blades
- Easy to fill, use and clean
- Superfine shaved ice
Cons
- Have to hold down the top for using
- Too loud
7. Hawaiian S700 Kid-Friendly
Highlighted Features
- Compact design
- Adjustable blades
- Powerful 55-watt motor
- Kid-friendly
Hawaiian Shaved Ice S700 snow cone machine is what you really need for making mouthwatering slushies, margaritas, frozen cocktails, snow cones or simply the shaved ice. On top of that, you don’t have to worry about the ice. Get some bagged ice or the ice from the refrigerator and your machine is ready to shave ice within minutes. You also get the flavor variety with the Hawaiian. Get the tastiest results with the Hawaiian brand syrups.
Construction: The Hawaiian snow cone machine is made of plastic with adjustable stainless steel blades. It operates with a powerful 55-watt motor. Also, it has parts that can be disassembled for storage. You can plug it into any standard household.
Function: Hawaiian, an easy to use and kid-friendly machine, has a simple and sleek design. You can use your regular ice cubes to shave ice for making snow cones, slushies, margaritas, fun drinks and more. You just have to add ice to the hopper, place and turn the lid to start shaving ice. The S700 Hawaiian machine is a whole lot of fun to use and easy to operate. With this machine, your snow cone party would be a great hit.
You can easily put it on display at your countertop due to its attractive design. Also, it can be disassembled quickly for easy storage.
Safety: There is a safety feature of a locking lid that makes it safe for operation. It will not operate if the lid is not properly placed. Even kids can use it, but under adult supervision.
Pros
- Simple elegant design
- Uses homemade ice
- Takes up less space
- Easy portability
- Can be disassembled for storage
Cons
- None
8. Nostalgia RSM702 Retro
Highlighted Features
- Retro design
- Stainless steel cutting blades
- Flip-up snow cone holder
- 2 reusable cones and scoop
Nostalgia RSM702 has a gorgeous retro design which is clearly made for the countertop with its red color and irresistible charm. Although it makes one snow cone at a time but makes it a lot of fun for whoever has this baby in their home.
Construction: This Nostalgia RSM702 snow cone maker is made of plastic and has stainless steel cutting blades. It also consists of a flip-up snow cone holder. This also includes 2 reusable cones and a scoop.
Function: Nostalgia RSM702 has an exceptional retro design that can easily be adjusted on the countertop. You just add ice cubes in the top compartment and the stainless steel cutting blades do the rest. It works with standard ice cubes, turning them into sweet summer delights but has the capability to make only one snow cone at a time. This machine is very easy to use and creates no hassle in cleaning.
This beautifully designed Nostalgia snow cone maker creates wonderful treats for a family. It transforms normal ice cubes into mouth-watering and refreshing shaved drinks. Moreover, it transforms regular ice cubes into delicious frozen treats that will be loved by your family on a hot summer day.
Safety: It doesn’t include a safety switch but has a top compartment to add in the ice cubes and close the lid afterward. It seems pretty safe to use as there is no danger of getting your hands near the blades while the machine is working.
Pros
- Has stainless steel cutting blades
- Has a convenient countertop design
- Is portable, easy to use and clean
- Includes a flip-up snow cone holder
Cons
- Makes only one snow cone at a time
9.Gourmia GIC9635 Manual
Highlighted Features
- Durable stainless steel blades
- Lightweight and portable
- Ergonomic crank handle
- Silky smooth operation
Gourmia GIC9635 is a hand-held device that is operated manually like a “one-motion” ice disintegrator. Simply add ice in the crusher and turn that ergonomic crank handle with no or less strain on your wrist. Make your summer great by making wonderful drinks, cocktails or an ice cone to cool off on a hot day.
Construction: Gourmia GIC9635 is made up of a BPA-free plastic with high-quality stainless steel blades on top which are durable and long-lasting. It is quite easy to operate with the ergonomic handle which leaves no strain on your wrist. It also has a small storage unit to contain all the crushed ice while you are operating.
Function: This Gourmia small ice crushing device is manually operated. It has a stress-free operation which makes the crushing of ice easy as you don’t have to get into the confusion of various settings or buttons to press. You just need to add ice into the top and move that crank to get beautiful, shaved ice. Due to the high-quality stainless steel blades, it makes the function or operation of the device quite easy.
Its portable design makes it an ideal tool for parties and celebrations. It creates perfectly crushed ice for drinks, cocktails, wine buckets, or even for the seafood platters. You can also store the perfectly shaved ice for later use in the bucket. Hence it is great for making mint margaritas or a frosty lemonade to give you instant relief from the heat on a summer day.
Safety: It doesn’t have any safety features, yet you don’t come directly in contact with the blades while crushing the ice with its ergonomic handle.
Pros
- High-quality stainless steel blades
- Is portable and easy to use
- Has a BPA-free plastic body
- Ergonomic crank handle for stress-free operation
Cons
- Time-taking operation
10. Dash DSIM100GBAQ02 Multi-Purpose
Highlighted Features
- Stainless steel blades
- 85-watt power
- Dishwasher-safe parts
- Includes recipe book
Dash DSIM100GBAQ02 shaved ice maker is great for large gatherings, RV traveling, etc. because of its compact and lightweight design. It also includes a 1-year warranty by its manufacturer and comes with a recipe book so that you can make extraordinary frozen delights.
Construction: Dash is an electric ice shaver that works very fast, taking 85 watts. It has a small size best for a countertop in your kitchen, while its sleek design and aqua color will give a beautiful touch to any kitchen decor. It is made with plastic and has stainless steel blades which will transform solid ice into shaved ice. Its small, compact + lightweight design makes it portable to carry anywhere you like.
Function: Dash has a top compartment with a lid to add ice. It works like a charm turning that ice into shaved ice with its stainless steel blades. It provides an easy clean up because the non-electric parts are dishwasher-safe.
Simply plug in the machine, add regular ice cubes, and shaved ice comes out in a bowl. Like this, you can make homemade slushies, snow cones, and frozen cocktails. You can also make sugar-free natural frozen drinks for yourself and for your family. Dash is perfect for large parties and big family gatherings. It is also great for small kids who can’t get away from icy treats. So this will surely satisfy your frozen treat cravings on a hot day.
Safety: It doesn’t have any safety features but you can safely operate it by just plugging the device and adding the ice in the top compartment and voila, stainless steel will surely give beautifully shaved ice without damaging your hands.
Pros
- Has stainless steel blades
- Works fast with 85-watt power
- Lightweight and portable
- Dishwasher-safe
Cons
- None
Things To Look For Before Buying!
Finding a perfect shaved ice machine is a tricky thing as they are made quite beautifully in different shapes and sizes. Some are even manual but most are electric. But I’ve got it all covered and you don’t need to worry, as I’ve got a list of certain things you should consider when looking to get a shaved ice machine.
Here are some of the important features you should look for before buying:
- Capacity
- Material
- Durability of blades
- Have a safety feature
- Easy to use, clean and store
Buying Guide
What Is Shaved Ice?
A large family of ice-based desserts is called shaved ice. These desserts are made of fine shavings of ice or ice that is finely crushed with the addition of sweet condiments or syrups. Normally, syrups are added after the ice has been shaved and frozen.
How Can You Differentiate Between Snow Cones And Shaved Ice?
Basically, snow cones have somewhat larger granules of ice than the shaved ice. Shaved ice is more like snow which is very fine, light, and fluffy as compared to ice cones. Snow cones are much more popular than shaved ice especially in America as they are quite inexpensive and have consistent sellers but shaved ice is more popular around the globe.
What To Consider While Choosing A Snow Cone Or Shaved Ice Machine?
It would be very beneficial if you first identify the reasons for buying the machine. Do you want to rent the machine? In that case, you would want one that would be lightweight and easily portable. Would you be using it commercially or only for the household purpose? This will help you know whether you need one that has a high output of snow cones or one with a relatively low output, better suited for parties and gatherings at home.
How To Make Snow Cones?
In a snow cone machine, you just need to add ice, push the start button, shave ice and place it in cones. Then add any syrup you like. If you don’t have a shaved ice machine, you can put the ice in a blender, puree it until it is finely chopped and scoop ice into cups or paper cones. For flavoring it, you can drizzle fruit juice or soda on it. If you want to make a natural syrup, mix 1 part water with 2 parts fruit juice.
How Do I Freeze Shaved Ice Or Snow Cones For Later?
It definitely is a very common question as we all know that finishing the whole shaved ice is not easy as shaved ices can be huge. So what should be done to save a perfectly good snow cone from getting wasted?
If you place the shaved ice in a freezer for too long, it will soon turn into a solid block of ice. This happens due to a process called sintering, in terms of physics. Sometimes, ice cubes stick together in a glass of water. This is due to the difference in temperature between the ice and the water.
This process of sintering also happens to the shaved ice or snow cone as they freeze into a solid block rather than staying soft and snowy. Putting it in a fridge would cause it to melt slowly. On the other hand, you can temporarily slow down the melting of shaved ice by placing it in the refrigerator.
How To Save The Shaved Ice For Later?
In order to save shaved ice for a longer time, you need to keep it at a constant temperature and stir it regularly so that it doesn’t freeze. This can be done if you put it in a freezer and then take it out and switch it into the fridge every now and then and stir it to keep it soft.
Keep repeating this process of alternating the ice back and forth between the freezer and the refrigerator without forgetting to stir it in between. You should switch it back and forth every 5 to 10 minutes but then it would depend on how cold your fridge and freezer are.
No time for stirring? Well, the only other way to avoid the ice from turning solid is to use a slushy or margarita machine that would turn it into a slurry.
What To Do If It Has Already Frozen Solid?
The only thing that you can do at this point is to break the ice into smaller pieces and then put them in a blender. It may not have the same texture but it will still taste good. The best solution is to own a shaved ice machine to make shaved ice whenever you want and have a splendid family time bonding activity.
Now we get to know why shaved ice is always made when ordered and not kept waiting in a cooler like ice cream. This tedious task of getting freshly shaved ice is a small price to pay for the deliciousness it offers.
Why Do You Need A Shaved Ice Machine In Your Kitchen?
Get shaved ice in the comfort of your own home: It would be great to own a shaved ice machine and make the icy delights whenever one desires whether it is 4 in the morning or very late at night. It is a whole lot more fun than buying from the stores that sell shaved ice.
Treat your family to freshly shaved ice: Instead of especially going to the grocery stores for buying shaved ice and frozen treats for your kids, you can easily make them at home with your very convenient shaved ice machine.
Money saver: You can save a lot of money if you make your own shaved ice and frozen treats as compared to the prices in the market. All you need is a shaved ice machine, ice cubes, and syrup. You can make it every now and then without worrying about spending any money.
Time saver: You can save a lot of time as well. You wouldn’t have to go to a grocery store in the middle of the night just for some frozen treats. You can make delicious icy treats within minutes or even seconds with the machine in your kitchen.
Party perfect: For the ones who throw parties every now and then, this machine is worth investing in as it would help you provide your guests with the best refreshments that they would relish. And if you get yourself a heavy-duty ice maker machine as well, you will be able to serve even a large number of your guests using your shaved ice machine.
Busy moms’ friends: If the busy moms can’t take time out from their hectic schedule to meet the demands of their children for frozen treats, they are in need of a shaved ice machine as they provide the convenience of creating awesome frozen treats within minutes.
Conclusion
So guys, what are you waiting for? Bring this baby to your home and have fun with your family and friends, enjoy summer festivities and parties, and make delicious treats and make your summer enjoyable with this fun treat…