13 Best Snow Cone Machines In 2021
In This Article
What is the perfect treat for kids and grown-ups alike during sweltering summers? A snow cone, of course! But what if you are too exhausted to step out in the sun and the ice cream truck doesn’t come by as often as you’d like?
Well, you could get your own snow cone machine. Moreover, in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak and with the social distancing norms in place, enjoying your favorite things at home with your family seems a safer and more appropriate choice.
No matter the occasion, this machine can surprise your guests with their choice of snow cones in different flavors and quantities. So, let us have a look at some of the best snow cone machines. Read on to find one that is perfect for you.
Top Picks
13 Best Snow Cone Machines
1. Nostalgia
This snow cone maker set from Nostalgia reminds you of childhood with its traditional snow cone stand design. Its stainless steel cutting blades can produce fine ice shavings for a party or snack time. It can produce 20 cones at a time and perfectly fit a kitchen counter top or a small side table. In addition, it comes with two reusable snow cones and an ice scoop.
Pros:
- Retro design
- Compact size
- Transparent snow chamber
- Comes with a safety switch to keep hands safe
- Measures 12 x 11 x 15.25in
- Weighs 6.98lb
Cons:
- Stability may be an issue
- May jam when bigger ice chunks are used
2. Hawaiian Shaved Ice
This snow cone machine is good value for money and is a complete package, with syrup flavors and accessories. Equipped with adjustable stainless steel blades, it can produce ice shavings of the desired texture. It also comes with spoon straws, cone cups, and bottle pourers for syrups.
Pros:
- All-inclusive set for any event
- Adjustable blades
- Free syrups and a wide range of accessories
- Compact design
Cons:
- May be loud
- Small for a larger group or party
3. Snowie
Snowie comes with a high-speed motor and hardened stainless steel blades that give fluffy snow in just three seconds. It comes with flavor powder sticks, mixing bottles, and shovels for creating a perfect treat. Besides, you can use ice cubes directly from the freezer, avoiding the need for pre-freezing in specially shaped drums of ice.
Pros:
- Modeled after commercial ice shavers
- Durable
- High speed
- Easy to store, clean, and carry
- Convenient size
Cons:
- May leave larger ice pieces
- The price is on the higher side
4. Zeny
This snow cone machine from Zeny is suitable for home as well as commercial setups such as snack bars and fast food joints. The stainless steel body is waterproof and rust-proof. It is equipped with a high-speed motor and commercial-grade stainless steel shaving blade.
Pros:
- Heavy cast base gives higher stability and reduces noise and vibration
- Produces 143lb of shaved ice per hour
- Ergonomic design with durable stainless steel blades
- Easy to operate and clean
- Includes a food-grade stainless steel bowl
Cons:
- Can be messy when in use
5. Cuisinart
This snow cone maker by Cuisinart can shave four to five cones in less than a minute. It is made of BPA-free plastic and comes with a pull-out serving tray. You can use regular ice cubes, syrup, or juices to create your cold treat.
Pros:
- Lightweight and elegant
- Easy to assemble and operate
- Value for money
- Easy to clean
- Comes with two fold-down cone holders
- Comes with an interlock safety feature
Cons:
- May leave ice chunks
- Durability may be an issue
6. Time for Treats
Avalanche Ice Shaver from Time for Treats can shave your regular ice cubes to snow-like cold treats. Equipped with a wide rubber base, the snow cone machine remains stable when in use. It comes with a safety feature, requiring the lid to be closed before the motor is turned on.
Pros:
- No need for mold or any special ice
- Adjustable stainless steel blade
- Easy to use and clean
- Lightweight
- Semi-transparent top
Cons:
- Durability may be an issue
- May be loud or noisy
7. Hawaiian Shaved Ice
Hawaiian Shaved Ice’s S700 Snow Cone Machine is kid-friendly and easy to use. Compactly designed, it can easily fit on a counter top. You can use regular ice cubes to produce your perfect treat.
Pros:
- Adjustable stainless steel blade
- Can be disassembled for easy storage
- BPA-free
- Lightweight
Cons:
- May not produce much fluffy snow
- May operate slowly
8. Nostalgia
RSM 702 is a retro single cone maker from Nostalgia. It can hold snow for up to 20 cones, and its stainless steel blades work quickly to produce fine frozen treats. It is compact and can be placed perfectly on the kitchen countertop. The machine comes with a flip-up snow cone holder, two reusable cones, and scoop.
Pros:
- Easy to clean
- Easy to use
- Uses regular-sized ice cubes
- Comes with a cord storage at the bottom of the machine
- Unique design
Cons:
- May be loud
- May not be suitable for large groups or parties
9. Time for Treats
SnowFlake Ice Shaver is a manual or hand-operated snow cone maker. It comes with three stackable ice molds. Although you can use regular ice too, it works best with ice from the molds. It is portable and can be used anywhere, anytime. Just turn the crank handle clockwise to produce your favorite frozen treat.
Pros:
- Easy to operate
- Lightweight
- Adjustable shaving blades
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- May not be very stable
- May leave ice chunks
10. MANBA
This ice cone maker set is hand-operated and comes with an ice cube tray. It is equipped with four durable stainless steel blades and a transparent bowl that can be used for serving or as an ice bucket. Due to its manual design, it can be used anywhere, anytime. And by applying a varying degree of pressure on the lid, you can get coarse or fine shaved ice.
Pros:
- Easy to use and store
- Portable
- Easy to clean and dishwasher-safe
- BPA-free
- Can be used outdoors
Cons:
- May leave ice chunks
- Can be tiresome to use for kids
11. Dash
Compact and lightweight, this snow cone machine uses regular ice cubes to produce your favorite cold treat. This electric shaver is equipped with stainless steel blades, and its parts are dishwasher-friendly.
Pros:
- Easy to use and clean
- Weighs less than 1lb
- Compact design to fit smaller areas
- Comes with a one-year warranty
Cons:
- May be loud
- May leave ice chunks
- May overheat
12. Disney
Olaf snow cone machine can make snow cones with regular ice or pre-molded ice. It comes with a removable cup holder and front panel, two ice molds, and six paper snow cone cups.
Pros:
- Designed for kids
- Operates with one switch
- Can produce coarse and fine ice shavings
- Easy to clean and use
Cons:
- May not produce fluffy snow
- May operate slowly
13. Costzon
This Costzon cone machine is perfect for snack bars, large parties, and home gatherings. Equipped with dual blades, it can reach a high rotating speed for maximum ice crushing efficiency. The stainless steel machine body and acrylic container make it easy to clean after each use.
Pros:
- Water-resistant switch for safe operation
- High durability
- Sturdy and low-maintenance
- Anti-skid handle
- Double high-efficiency ice crushing capacity
Cons:
- May clog
- May vibrate
How to Choose the Right Snow Cone Machines?
You may need to consider various factors while choosing the best snow cone machine for your family.
- Ease of cleaning: You may not want to waste time cleaning after using the snow cone maker. Therefore, consider an option that is easy to maintain.
- Speed: If you are hosting a large gathering or a family party, you may need several cones to serve. Therefore, it is important that the capacity is appropriate, and the operational speed is high.
- Safety: If you are a family with kids, you may want a snow cone machine that is kid-friendly and has safety features. Many models come with an automatic cutoff feature. Also, you could choose one that works only when the lid is closed.
- Versatility: If you are a big fan of frozen and cold treats, you may look for options that may offer a variety of ice shavings that can be used in snow cones, slushies, or other types of icy desserts. You may choose a model with adjustable blades to produce ice shavings of the desired texture.
- Durability: You may want your snow cone maker to last long. Look for models that offer warranty or are made of sturdy, safe materials such as stainless steel and BPA-free plastic.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the recommended amount of syrup in one snow cone?
You may need 2oz of syrup to make a 6oz snow cone. Also, a cone cannot hold more than 2oz of syrup. The taste of the cone may also depend on the syrup of the snowmaker.
- What shape of the ice is recommended for a fluffy snow cone?
Depending on the power of the blades and size of the machine, the shape may vary. Commercial machines may need a large block of ice, whereas some machines may require cylindrical-shaped ice cubes or regular ice cubes.
- What type of power options are available for snow cone machines?
Most of the snow cone machines are electric, which are easy to use and clean. These machines are also comparatively affordable.
Consider the above features and your budget to find the perfect option and beat the summer heat with your favorite snow cones and slushies. It is safer any day to create your own snow cones at home than get them from outside.
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