If you are someone who loves the neutral taste of snowflakes and wish you can prepare them at home, so that you can be tasting them all day, then this post is for you. Shaved ice either plain or when mixed with sweet flavors can be great to taste and adults love them equally as children do. But if you are at the conception that you can get them only in commercial establishments, then you are wrong, for you can get the best-shaved ice in the comforts of your home with the help of these best-shaved ice machines.
Major Factors to Consider
Finding the right type of snow machine that forms shaved ice could be challenging. It is important to choose the best machine that forms shaved ice seamlessly in a fluffy and airy way and makes it great for chewing with diverse flavors. There are a few things to consider before choosing the best ice shaver so that it can meet your requirements of serving the crowd within your budget.
1. Check the speed and the power of the appliance
Check the motor speed of the appliance and its ability to form ice shavings within the shortest possible time, no matter how hard and solid the input ice cube will be. Choose professional ice shavers that have a motor speed of at least 250W so that you get your ice shavings within minutes.
2. Quality of the blade
Choose ice shaving machines with blades that are made of high-quality stainless steel. SS blades are very much durable and are capable of crushing ice in the form of shavings instantly. Also, these blades are easy to clean and wouldn’t rust that easily, and will help in enhancing the life of the appliance.
3. Safety features
Make sure the blade of the appliance is covered with a safe top layer so that the blades do not come in contact with the hands and fingers. The general rule is that, to buy an appliance that is safe and great for even children to handle. Top lids and safety shields are the musts to look for in the shaved ice machine. Also, make sure that the on and off switch is guarded by a shield and exposure to moisture and water is prevented completely.
4. BPA free parts
Generally, the blade and the portion of the shaved ice maker that handles the ice will be made of stainless steel material. In some appliances, there will be provided to collect the shaved ice directly. Whereas in other appliances, there will be a separate storage box to save the ice shavings and it is important to make sure that this storage box is made up of BPA-free parts. This makes sure that the plastic parts are of very high quality and are okay for consumption. BPA is a dangerous chemical that is used predominantly to make reusable plastic materials and could be very dangerous to the health of children.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I use this appliance to form shaved ice at home?
It is very simple and easy to make shaved ice with this appliance. You only have to place enough ice in the food processor cabin and hit the crush button. In some appliances, you may have to thaw the ice cubes before placing them in the crusher, according to the instructions from the manufacturer. Crush the ice for a minute and collect the crushed ice in a cone or a cup. Pour your flavors on top of the cup and start tasting delicious ice colas at home.
It is possible to get the shaved ice fluffy and airy?
Yes, keep the block of ice in a microwave and heat it at 600 watts for 30 seconds, let the block of ice set for at least 3 minutes, and that the surface of the block is wet. Now shave the ice in the appliance, and it will result in fluffy and shaved ice.
Is it healthy to give shaved ice to children often?
No, it is not healthy to give shaved ice with syrups to children often, as the syrups contain too much sugar content and it can induce obesity in them.
What is the difference between the cube shaved ice machine and a block shaved ice machine?
The cube shaved ice machines are great for shaving ice cubes and they tend to form fine and fluffy ice. The blocks appliance can shave ice blocks and they form snow-like ice. Block shaved ice machine takes longer time and are not easily available. You may have to freeze blocks of ice to use this appliance.
Cleaning and Maintaining the Shaved Ice Machine
Making snow or shaved ice from these shaved ice machines could be a lot of fun, but more than using these appliances, what is more, important is cleaning and maintaining them. But cleaning and storing these appliances and pretty easy and follow these pointers to maintain and enhance the life of your appliance.
- Do not use soap while cleaning the appliance and be very careful while cleaning as the SS blades can be harmful to the fingers
- Make sure to unplug the appliance before initiating the cleaning process.
- Never try to immerse the product in water, in an attempt to clean it thoroughly, as it could damage the motor.
- For a proper cleaning process, unplug the appliance and clean it with a clean cloth that is dipped in hot or warm water.
- Pour vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray the solution on the ice chamber, shaving plate, and the ice chute
- Wipe the saving ice machine with a dry cloth and air dry the appliance before using it.
How to Choose the Best Ice Shaver?
1. Choosing between electronic and manual machines
The electronic shaved ice machine requires power and we have to plug in the appliance and it will render a lot of snow in very little time. But these appliances consume a lot of energy and we have to check for the wattage to figure out the amount of power that the machine uses. Manual ice machines require a lot of cranks the ice yourself and they are slower compared to electronic machines. Shaving the ice by hand can be fun and safe for kids too. The manual machines are also easier to store and they are lighter, smaller, and are also less bulky.
2. Choice of materials
A vast majority of the ice machines have stainless steel blades and some of the machines can be made of a variety of other materials as well. Stainless steel is durable and is also naturally rust-resistant and thus a stainless steel shaved ice machine lasts for a long time. Stainless steel machines are less convenient and heavier and are easy to store and transport.
3. Budget
The shaved ice machines for residential use are not very costly and it is not a good idea to spend so much on them, especially when we get to use them predominantly in the summer months. But if you have a huge requirement of ice, such as a commercial establishment, or if you have a huge family, then it is optimal to go for a higher-end appliance which could be costly.
Must check: Best Ice Makers Under $100
4. Build quality
The build quality corresponds to the durability of the appliance. While shopping for a shaved ice machine for the home, go for a unit with durable plastic. And if you are looking to buy an advanced model for commercial purposes, go for models with stainless steel bodies or aluminum. Make sure the components don’t rust.
Also check: Best Crushed Ice Makers for Those Who Like Chewable Ice
Best Shaved Ice Machines 2022
A shaved ice machine is equipment that is capable of snipping off blocks and cubes into fine shavings of ice. Unlike the snow cones and the slushies, the shaved ice melts in the ice just like snowflakes. When we add flavors to it, it is going to taste divine on a hot summer afternoon. Here are the top 6 best shaved ice machines, that we have picked up for you from the leading brands.
#1. Little Snowie Max Premium Shaved Ice Maker – Best Overall
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.7 |
| Easy to clean | 9.6 |
| Durability | 9.5 |
| Safety Features | 9.4 |
| Noise level | 8.5 |
| Value for money | 9.7 |
Check Price on Online Stores:
If you are someone who loves making ice colas at home, then you should buy the Little Snowie max snow cone machine. It will scrape and shave the ice nicely to make different varieties of ice colas as you please. And it also comes with the complete set of syrup mix and a six-stick kit to serve the shaved ice in different flavors instantly. This machine is patented for home use and is backed with one year guarantee on the product.
We tried shaving the ice in this appliance, and this is just amazing, we award it as the fastest ice shaver for home use on earth and it is capable of forming the perfect and delicious snow in less than three seconds. Its professional-grade high sped motor and stainless steel blade are perhaps the reason behind the fast functioning of this ice shaver appliance. It is also compact and has a small footprint and can thus be easily be placed on the kitchen counter and office spaces and is portable as well.
It is pretty easy to clean as well and can be stored conveniently when not in use. We transferred the ice cubes from the ice maker into this shaver and also tried this appliance with the ice from the freezer, and this appliance shaved them professionally. We don’t have to pre-freeze its drums and other components to handle ice. Above all, this comprehensive kit comes with six flavor powder sticks that could make six pints of flavored syrup for the ice cola, two mixing bottles with pour spouts, and reusable snow cone shovel spoons.
What do we like about Little Snowie Max?
- Fills and shapes the ice shavings on the cups simultaneously
- Works great with regular ice cubes
- Its 10 inches’ blade is made with 301 stainless steel with a hard temper
- Safety lid helps in convenient handling
- Powered by a 1000 watts and 2.7 peak horsepower motor.
What do we don’t like about Little Snowie Max?
- Very small appliance, about a size of a blender
- Loud appliance
Also check: Best Ice Makers in the Market
#2. Koval Inc. Electric Shaved Ice Machine – Editor’s Choice
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.6 |
| Easy to clean | 9.7 |
| Durability | 9.2 |
| Safety Features | 9.2 |
| Noise level | 8.7 |
| Value for money | 9.5 |
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This tiny appliance at home is elegant and durable and its complete stainless steel body adapts it to the kitchen space seamlessly. Being an electric snow shaver appliance, it is capable of shaving at least 143 lbs. of ice in an hour with its 200W power. And there is a built-in pan in this appliance that could collect the shaved ice. We were able to get chopped ice from its appliance pretty simply. We just have to switch it on, drop the ice in the hopper, push the handle and collect the shaved ice.
This ice shaver is also easy to use and maintain too. We can clean the hopper, blade, and bowl with a towel and clean water, and wipe it dry after shaving. Even if we use water directly on the appliance to clean, it doesn’t rust. It is safe to operate as well. Its on and off switch is shielded with a waterproof cover to help and guarantee safe operation. The snow machine also shuts off automatically when the handles of this hopper are open. Its elegant and eye-catching design makes it a must to try appliance at home.
This is an ideal appliance to make fancy desserts and to impress guests. It offers the fun of tasting shaved ice in different flavors at the convenience of one’s home. It is also perfect for making handmade slush and frozen drinks at home and can be a value-added addition for eateries, restaurants, banquets, carnivals, festivals, etc.
What do we like about Koval Shaved Ice Machine?
- A highly efficient motor that could produce 143 lbs. of shaved ice in an hour.
- Its stainless steel shaving blade helps with softer ice.
- The appliance has a smooth shape for rust resistance.
- Helps in convenient and simple operation.
What do we don’t like about Koval Shaved Ice Machine?
- Beware of metal remnants and clean the appliance appropriately before using.
#3. Hawaiian S900A Shaved Ice Machine – Best Budget Choice
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.2 |
| Easy to clean | 9.4 |
| Durability | 9.2 |
| Safety Features | 9.2 |
| Noise level | 8.4 |
| Value for money | 9.4 |
Check Price on Online Stores:
This appliance looks like a mixer grinder and is compact and space-saving as well. It makes use of S900A electric power to make high-quality and quantity shaved ice in no time. Though it has a three-piece design, it is easy to assemble as well. The ice shaver comes with two round block ice molds and a non-slip mat and also comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. With the help of this ice shaver, we were able to make high-quality snow cones, shaved ice, slushies, snowballs, margarita, and a lot more.
It is very simple to use and helps us to get ready with quick treats pretty instantly. Based on our experience with this ice maker, we can say that it would be the center of attraction in birthday parties, pool parties, and other family get-togethers. Being a compact appliance, that has a diameter of only 8” and a width of 5.5” wide, it is going to take very small space on the counter and even if you want to store it, it can be tucked in easily under the cabinet or the counter.
Apart from being the best ice shaver that is available in the market, it is also the simplest and easiest to use. We just have to place the motor unit on top of the shaver, plug it in and start the ice shaving process. We thawed the ice cubes for a period of 5 to 7 minutes and shaved the cubes in the appliance to get high-quality ice shavings as that of professionals.
What do we like about Hawaiian S900A?
- Its precision-cut stainless steel blade forms fine and fluffy ice for every serving.
- Possible to get ice in different textures by adjusting the blades of the appliance.
- Makes ice shaving ready within seconds.
What do we don’t like about Hawaiian S900A?
- The appliance will not shave ice completely and will leave a last bit of ice behind, which cannot be used.
#4. Great Northern Premium Shaved Ice Machine – Best Commercial Ice Shaver
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.5 |
| Easy to clean | 9.5 |
| Durability | 9.2 |
| Safety Features | 9.4 |
| Noise level | 8.6 |
| Value for money | 9.5 |
Check Price on Online Stores:
This little ice shaving machine comes in a beautiful blue color and has a premium finish with brass and stainless steel construction. It works on a commercial, heavy-duty motor and features a completely adjustable stainless steel blade. Though it looks small and compact, it is capable of shaving about 6 pounds of ice in a minute and can thus shave about 350 lbs. of ice in a minute. This commercial-grade ice machine comes with a one-year warranty from the manufacturers.
This is a quality ice maker that is extremely durable, lightweight, and is easy to clean. It shaves the ice quickly off the block and forms the softest and the fluffiest ice for the users. We loved the life as it was very soft and smooth and it makes use of a commercial and a heavy-duty motor that beats the rust. It comprises a stainless steel blade that is capable of shaving an ice cube that is about 8” in diameter. The exteriors of the ice maker feature a high-impact ABS body with brass and stainless steel construction.
We can compare this small ice maker with large commercial units, as it easily made about 100 cones of shaved ice within 12 oz. within twenty minutes. It made super soft shaved ice and not the crunchy cone type of ice. It also comes with a plastic safety shield to prevent the ice cubes from exploding in all directions.
What do we like about Great Northern Shaved Ice Machine?
- Its 1/3 HP motor operates at a speed of 1725 RPM
- Capable of plowing about 350 lbs. of ice in an hour.
- Its stainless steel blades last for a lifetime.
What do we don’t like about Great Northern Shaved Ice Machine?
- Lacks safety features and thus should be operated with care.
Also check: Best Commercial Ice Makers 2022
#5. Hamilton Beach 68010 Snowman Ice Shaver – Alternative Budget Choice
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.2 |
| Easy to clean | 9.2 |
| Durability | 9.1 |
| Safety Features | 9.3 |
| Noise level | 8.6 |
| Value for money | 9.3 |
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This is an exceptional ice shaver machine that helps in making shaved ice colas and frozen beverages. There are two 4-inch round plastic molds, that come with the lids for freezing both juices and water. It is capable of churning bowlfuls of shaved ice in only a few seconds. Kids would love the flavored snow cones from this appliance during their birthday parties or can simply sip the frozen daiquiris during their evenings on the deck.
It is extremely simple to use and you only have to place the frozen round ice cubes or even the regular ice cubes in the blade unit. Cover it with the motorized top and press down the operating button. There is a small bowl placed underneath and it captures the snow instantly. The sharp blade of the ice shaver is present internally completely and is not easily accessible for the fingers.
This is an exceptional ice maker that makes light and fluffy flakes and it works great with the ice formed in its plastic mold. This ice fits the shaver perfectly and it forms ice flakes pretty instantly. Though this ice shaver is completely made of plastic, its blades and its turning mechanism are made completely of heavy-duty stainless steel and are made of pretty better quality. There is a small plate at the bottom of the motor, that sticks to the ice, preventing any type of ice wastage. The fineness of the end shaved ice depends on the type of ice that is fed in the appliance.
What do we like about Hamilton Beach 68010 Ice Shaver?
- The ice shaver machine also works great with regular ice cubes
- Forms shaved ice for snow cones, slushies, and smoothies.
- It forms great ice shavings for both tropical and mixed drinks.
- It comes with two ice molds to form solid ice cubes.
What do we don’t like about Hamilton Beach 68010 Ice Shaver?
- It is hard work to churn out ice shavings from this shaver.
- It forms more finely crushed ice than shaved ice.
#6. Flexzion 300W Electric Ice Crusher Machine – Most Durable
| Features | Rating |
| Easy to use | 9.2 |
| Easy to clean | 9.1 |
| Durability | 9.5 |
| Safety Features | 9.3 |
| Noise level | 8.5 |
| Value for money | 9.4 |
Check Price on Online Stores:
This is an exceptional 300W snow cone maker that forms shaved ice in no time, with its stainless steel body. The ice shaver machine features an efficient and high-speed design. Its quiet and highly efficient motor is capable of processing up to 143 lbs. of shaved ice per hour, thus meeting the demands of large shaved ice quickly. The appliance has a powerful motor that runs without any vibration. It can run for long hours without creating any trouble. This is a must to have an appliance at home, if you are a snow cone lover and if you want to make shaved ice instantly in restaurants, food trucks, etc.
The blades of this ice shaver are made of commercial-grade stainless steel. It possesses a fast, powerful, and rust-resistant blade to render softer and finer snow-like ice. This stainless steel machine and bowl ensure corrosion resistance and long life for this ice crusher machine. There are also multiple vents in this appliance for heat dissipation, enhanced operation time, and efficiency. Also, this appliance is extremely easy to clean, you can clean it instantly with a wet cloth.
It is also equipped with a safety On and Off switch and its motor cuts off power automatically, when its cover is opened. You will be able to turn on the appliance, only when the cover hopper is closed. It also features a high leverage grip handle, anti-slip rubber feet, and a textured inner hopper to prevent ice spinning, spraying, and ice spilling. The ice crusher and shaver ice maker machine is designed with a sturdy body to offer a stable foundation while working with ice and water. Its rubber feet add to its stability and offer a vibration dampening effect.
What do we like about Flexzion 300W Electric Ice Crusher?
- Perfect ice shaver to make snow cones, slushies, deserts, and drinks at the comforts of one’s own home.
- The appliance has a hefty and solid aluminum construction and it is extremely durable.
- There is a safety switch that prevents the fingers from entering the rotating blade area.
- It has a large rubber foot at the base that prevents slippage.
What do we don’t like about Flexzion 300W Electric Ice Crusher?
- The leftover ice in the appliance melts and makes the entire space wet.
Final Words
Tasting shaved ice in the hot months could be a delight for the soul. It could be rewarding and keeps the person away from rehydration. Make sure you buy the best appliance within the budget that helps in meeting the ice needs of your family. We hope our product recommendation and our buying guide helps you in choosing the best shaved ice maker for your family.
Quality shaved ice machines are hard to find, as there are hundreds of options, but one brand is consistent over the years, that’s Hamilton beach, I have used their ice shaver in the past, so I wonder why their machine features so low in this list of best shaved ice machines. I am sure, all other machines are also good, but personally, I think Hamilton beach is the best brand for shaved ice makers.