Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker vs Hoshizaki IM-500SAC Nugget Ice Machine — Which Should You Buy?

Side-by-side comparison of Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker and Hoshizaki IM-500SAC Nugget Ice Machine. We compare specs, performance, and value to help you decide.

Updated 2026-03-09 Independently reviewed
Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker

Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker

8.5/10
$222 /one-time
VS
Hoshizaki IM-500SAC Nugget Ice Machine

Hoshizaki IM-500SAC Nugget Ice Machine

9.3/10
$3499 /one-time

Feature Comparison

Feature Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker Hoshizaki IM-500SAC Nugget Ice Machine
Ice Type Nugget (pellet) Nugget (pellet)
Daily Production ~12 lbs 500 lbs
First Ice 15-20 minutes
Dimensions 13 x 10 x 15 in
Self-Cleaning Yes
Water Source Manual fill
Storage 2.2 lbs
Warranty 1 year 2-5 years
Type Commercial/Residential
Plumbing Required
Energy Efficient
Best For Serious enthusiasts

Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker

Pros

  • Nugget ice at budget price
  • Chewable pellet texture
  • Self-cleaning mode
  • Compact design
  • Good value
  • Stainless exterior
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Slower than GE Opal
  • Smaller capacity
  • First ice takes 15-20 min

Hoshizaki IM-500SAC Nugget Ice Machine

Pros

  • Best nugget texture we've tested
  • Hoshizaki commercial quality
  • Extremely reliable
  • Energy efficient
  • Easy to clean
  • Professional grade
  • Long lifespan

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Requires plumbing
  • Large footprint

Our Verdict

Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker

The gateway to nugget ice. Perfect for trying pellet ice without Opal-level investment.

Price Drop Alert — View Deal Now

Hoshizaki IM-500SAC Nugget Ice Machine

The ultimate nugget ice. For those who want the best and have the space and budget.

20% Off — Limited Time, Check Now

Our Methodology

We test each nugget ice machine for ice texture, production speed, noise level, and ease of use. Details on testing process. No manufacturer has editorial influence.

Related Comparisons

Ranked List

Best Nugget Ice Machines 2026 – Tested & Ranked

We tested 10+ nugget ice machines for texture, production speed, and noise. Here are our top picks for chewable pellet ice at home.

Overview

Compare Nugget Ice Machines – Side-by-Side Specs

Compare daily production, dimensions, features, and pricing across GE Opal, Costway, Scotsman, and all top nugget ice makers.

Compare

Compare NuggetIcePick Products — Pick Two to Compare

Choose any two products to see a detailed side-by-side comparison. Compare specs, features, and value.

Head to Head

GE Opal 2.0 Ultra vs Hoshizaki – Which Nugget Ice Maker Wins?

We compare the top home nugget ice maker (GE Opal 2.0 Ultra) with the commercial-grade Hoshizaki. Which is right for you?

Head to Head

GE Profile Opal 2.0 Ultra Nugget Ice Maker vs Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker — Which Should You Buy?

Side-by-side comparison of GE Profile Opal 2.0 Ultra Nugget Ice Maker and Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker. We compare specs, performance, and value to help you decide.

Head to Head

GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker (Standard) vs Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker — Which Should You Buy?

Side-by-side comparison of GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker (Standard) and Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker. We compare specs, performance, and value to help you decide.

Head to Head

GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker (Standard) vs Hoshizaki IM-500SAC Nugget Ice Machine — Which Should You Buy?

Side-by-side comparison of GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker (Standard) and Hoshizaki IM-500SAC Nugget Ice Machine. We compare specs, performance, and value to help you decide.