Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker vs Ninja Thirsti Ice & Beverage System — Which Should You Buy?

Side-by-side comparison of Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker and Ninja Thirsti Ice & Beverage System. 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

8.4/10
$222 /one-time
VS
Ninja Thirsti Ice & Beverage System

Ninja Thirsti Ice & Beverage System

8.5/10
$299 /one-time

Feature Comparison

Feature Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker Ninja Thirsti Ice & Beverage System
Ice Production Rate ~2 lbs in 2 hours ~1.5 lbs/hour
Daily Capacity ~12 lbs 24 lbs
Ice Type Nugget (pellet) Bullet
Noise Level 50 dB 50 dB
First Ice Time 15-20 minutes 8-10 minutes
Dimensions 13 x 10 x 15 in 14 x 11 x 17 in
Self-Cleaning Yes Yes
Storage Capacity 2.2 lbs
Water Source Manual fill Manual fill
Warranty 1 year 1 year
Beverage Chiller Yes

Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker

Pros

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

Cons

  • Slower production than GE Opal
  • Smaller capacity
  • First ice takes longer

Ninja Thirsti Ice & Beverage System

Pros

  • Ice + beverage chiller combo
  • Multiple functions
  • Ninja brand quality
  • Sleek design
  • Cold water on demand
  • Good ice production
  • Space-efficient

Cons

  • Higher price for combo
  • More complex to maintain
  • Bullet ice only

Our Verdict

Costway Nugget Countertop Ice Maker

The gateway to nugget ice. If you want chewable ice but can't justify Opal money, start here.

Price Drop Alert — View Deal Now

Ninja Thirsti Ice & Beverage System

Two appliances in one. Ideal if you want ice and chilled drinks without two separate units.

Price Drop Alert — View Deal Now

Our Methodology

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

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