If you’re obsessed with that soft, chewable nugget ice from your favorite drive-thru, the GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker is about to become your kitchen’s MVP.
This countertop gem churns out perfect, crunchy ice that elevates every drink, and its sleek design and smart features make it a must-have for ice lovers.
Trust me, once you experience the joy of on-demand nugget ice, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Let’s explore why this machine is worth every penny and how it transforms your daily sipping routine.
My Journey With The GE Profile Opal 2.0
Picture this: it’s a sweltering summer afternoon, and I’m craving an ice-cold soda that hits just right.
Not the kind with boring, hard cubes that clunk around in the glass, but the soft, chewable nugget ice that makes every sip a delight.
That’s when the GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker entered my life, and let me tell you, it’s been a revelation.
From the moment I unboxed this sleek stainless steel beauty, I knew I was in for something special.
The packaging was thoughtful, with every component—the ice maker, side tank, scoop, and manual—neatly tucked in, making me feel like I’d just unwrapped a high-end gadget.
Setting it up was a breeze. I’m no tech guru, so I appreciated the clear instructions. I connected the side tank, ran the initial cleaning cycle with a water-bleach mix, and within 20 minutes, the Opal was humming softly, ready to churn out ice.
The first batch of nugget ice tumbled into the bin after about 15 minutes, and I was hooked. Those small, airy pellets were exactly like the ones I’d drive miles to get. I filled a glass with sparkling water, tossed in a handful of nuggets, and the drink was instantly chilled, with that satisfying crunch as I sipped.
Hosting a small dinner party that weekend, I watched my friends’ eyes light up as they scooped ice for their cocktails, marveling at how it didn’t dilute their drinks. The Opal 2.0 didn’t just make ice—it made moments.
Whether it was a quiet evening with a mocktail or a lively barbecue, this machine kept up, producing up to 24 pounds of ice a day, ensuring I never ran out, even with a crowd.
What Makes the Opal 2.0 So Special?
Let’s talk about why this ice maker stands out. The Opal 2.0 is designed to produce nugget ice, those soft, chewable pellets you’d find at places like Sonic.
Unlike traditional cubes, these nuggets are made from compressed ice flakes, giving them a unique texture that’s both crunchy and airy. The machine can pump out one pound of ice per hour, with a bin that holds three pounds at a time.
It’s got a modern stainless steel look, with a gray interior and text-based status indicators that tell you exactly what’s happening—whether it’s making ice, needs water, or is in cleaning mode.
The addition of Wi-Fi connectivity and the SmartHQ app lets you control it from your phone, which is a game-changer when you’re running around hosting or just want ice ready when you get home.
The side tank is another thoughtful touch, holding enough water to produce up to nine pounds of ice before needing a refill.
It’s compact enough to fit on most countertops, measuring 16.5 inches tall, 13.4 inches wide, and 17.5 inches deep, though it’s not exactly lightweight at 38 pounds. But what really sets it apart is how quiet it is.
I expected a loud, clunky machine, but the Opal 2.0 hums softly, barely noticeable even in a quiet kitchen. It’s like having a mini drive-thru ice machine right at home, minus the noise and the trip.
The Pros of the GE Profile Opal 2.0: Why I’m Obsessed
- Unbeatable Nugget Ice Quality
The star of the show is the ice itself. The Opal 2.0 delivers nugget ice that’s soft, chewable, and perfectly crunchy. It’s the kind of ice that makes every drink feel like a treat, whether you’re sipping iced coffee, a cocktail, or just plain water.
The nuggets are small, about three-quarters of an inch long, and their porous texture absorbs just enough of your drink’s flavor to enhance every sip without watering it down. I’ve used it with everything from lemonade to sparkling water, and it never fails to impress.
- Lightning-Fast Ice Production
Speed is where the Opal 2.0 shines. It churns out its first batch of ice in as little as 15 minutes, and it keeps going, producing up to 24 pounds a day. That’s more than enough for a family, a party, or even a small office.
I hosted a barbecue with 20 people, and the Opal kept the ice flowing, no problem. Even when the bin was nearly empty, it sensed it and started making more, ensuring I never ran out.
- Sleek and Modern Design
This isn’t just an appliance; it’s a statement piece. The stainless steel finish and streamlined shape make it look like it belongs in a high-end kitchen. It fits under my cabinets, and the gray interior adds a touch of sophistication.
The text-based indicators are a huge upgrade from the original model’s vague lights, making it easy to know what’s going on at a glance. It’s the kind of machine that sparks conversation when guests see it.
- Whisper-Quiet Operation
I was bracing for a noisy appliance, but the Opal 2.0 surprised me with its near-silent performance. It emits a soft hum, like a refrigerator, but it’s so quiet I often forget it’s running.
This makes it perfect for open-plan homes or small apartments where noise can be a dealbreaker. You can leave it on all day without it disrupting your vibe.
- Smart Features for Ultimate Convenience
The Wi-Fi connectivity and SmartHQ app take this ice maker to the next level. I can start ice production, check the status, or run a cleaning cycle from my phone, whether I’m in the next room or out running errands.
The app even lets you schedule ice-making, so you can have a full bin waiting when you get home. It’s compatible with Alexa and Google Home, too, so you can boss it around with voice commands if that’s your thing.
The Cons: Where the Opal 2.0 Falls Short
- Pricey Investment
Let’s not sugarcoat it: the Opal 2.0 is expensive, with a price tag often hovering between $550 and $700.
For some, that’s a tough pill to swallow for an ice maker, especially if you’re not an ice fanatic.
While I think it’s worth every cent for the quality and convenience, budget-conscious buyers might hesitate.
That said, it often goes on sale, so keep an eye out for deals to soften the blow.
- Takes Up Counter Space
This machine isn’t small. At 16.5 inches tall and 17.5 inches deep, it demands a chunk of counter space. If you’ve got a spacious kitchen, this won’t be an issue, but for those in apartments or with minimalist setups, it can feel like a space hog.
I had to rearrange my countertop to make room, and it’s not something you’ll want to move often due to its 38-pound weight.
- Manual Ice Scooping
The ice bin requires you to scoop out the ice by hand, which isn’t ideal if you’re worried about germs or just prefer a touchless setup. There’s no automated dispenser, so you’re using the included scoop every time.
It’s not a huge deal, but in a post-pandemic world, I can see why some might want a more hygienic option.
- Regular Cleaning Required
Maintaining the Opal 2.0 isn’t hard, but it does require consistent effort. You’ll need to run a cleaning cycle with bleach and water weekly, followed by multiple rinse cycles.
It takes about 20 minutes, and while it’s straightforward, it’s one more task on your to-do list. If you’re not diligent, you risk funky-tasting ice, which is the last thing you want.
Maintenance Tips: Keeping Your Opal 2.0 in Top Shape
- Weekly Cleaning Routine
To keep your ice tasting fresh, you need to clean the Opal 2.0 regularly. I do this every Sunday, and it’s become a quick ritual. Start by emptying the ice bin—toss the ice into a freezer-safe container if you don’t want to waste it.
Mix five cups of water with a teaspoon of household bleach and pour it into the internal reservoir. Press the Clean button for three seconds to start the cycle, which runs for a few minutes.
When it’s done, drain the solution through the back tubes into a sink or bucket. Then, run three rinse cycles with fresh water to flush out any bleach. It’s simple, but don’t skip it—clean ice is happy ice.
- Use Distilled Water for Less Scaling
If you live in an area with hard water, like I do, mineral buildup can be a pain. I switched to using distilled water in the side tank, and it’s made a huge difference in reducing scale.
It’s a bit pricier than tap water, but it means less frequent descaling and cleaner ice. If you stick with tap water, just be prepared to descale every month or so using a vinegar solution.
- Wipe Down and Sanitize Components
Beyond the cleaning cycle, I give the ice bin, scoop, and drip tray a quick wash with hot soapy water every week. The side tank gets the same treatment.
I also wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and a dab of mild soap to keep it looking shiny. This extra step ensures everything stays sanitary, especially since you’re scooping ice by hand.
- Check the Water Filter
The Opal 2.0 has a built-in filtration system, which is great for keeping ice crisp and clean. I check the filter every few months and replace it as needed—usually every six months, depending on usage.
A fresh filter means better-tasting ice and less chance of clogs. The machine will let you know when it’s time for a replacement via the app or status indicators.
- Store Properly When Not in Use
If you’re not using the Opal 2.0 for a while, like during a vacation, drain all the water and dry the components thoroughly to prevent mold. I learned this the hard way after leaving water in the reservoir for a week and coming back to a slight musty smell.
Now, I make sure to empty and dry everything before storing it in a cool, dry place.
Comparing the Opal 2.0 To Other Brands
- GE Profile Opal 2.0 Vs. COWSAR Nugget Ice Maker
When I tested the COWSAR Nugget Ice Maker, I was impressed by its affordability, typically retailing around $300, making it a budget-friendly alternative to the Opal 2.0’s $550-$700 price tag.
It produces up to 34 pounds of ice daily, outpacing the Opal’s 24 pounds, and its compact design (11.3 x 8.7 x 12.7 inches) is a plus for small kitchens.
The ice quality is decent—soft and chewy—but the nuggets are less uniform, sometimes clumping together, unlike the Opal’s consistently airy pellets.
The COWSAR lacks Wi-Fi or app control, so you’re stuck with manual operation, which feels dated compared to the Opal’s smart features. It’s also noisier, with a fan that hums noticeably louder than the Opal’s whisper-quiet 39 dBA.
Cleaning is a hassle, requiring manual draining and scrubbing without an automatic cycle. If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind sacrificing tech and polish, the COWSAR gets the job done, but the Opal’s superior ice quality and smart connectivity keep it ahead for me.
- GE Profile Opal 2.0 Vs. Frigidaire Gallery Nugget Ice Maker
The Frigidaire Gallery EFIC255, priced around $300-$330, is a strong competitor, and I gave it a whirl to see how it measures up.
It churns out nearly two pounds of ice per hour, slightly faster than the Opal’s one pound, and its 26-pound daily capacity edges out the Opal’s 24 pounds.
The ice is crunchy and chewable, though I noticed it melts faster than the Opal’s nuggets, especially in warm drinks.
Its design is bulkier (17 x 11 x 17 inches), and it’s louder, with a noticeable fan noise compared to the Opal’s quiet operation.
The Frigidaire’s top-fill reservoir is easier to access than the Opal’s side tank, but it lacks smart features like Wi-Fi or app control, which I’ve grown to love. Cleaning is straightforward but manual, relying on water-only cycles without the Opal’s bleach-based automation.
For those prioritizing cost and output, the Frigidaire is a solid pick, but the Opal’s refined design and tech make it my go-to.
- GE Profile Opal 2.0 Vs. EUHOMY Ice Maker
The EUHOMY Ice Maker, often priced under $350, leans toward bullet ice rather than true nugget ice, which was a letdown when I tried it.
It produces 26 pounds of ice daily, matching the Frigidaire, and is lightning-fast, with a batch ready in about 10 minutes.
Its compact size (12.6 x 9.1 x 12.6 inches) is great for tight spaces, but the bullet-shaped ice lacks the chewable texture I crave from the Opal’s nuggets. The EUHOMY’s one-button control is simple but lacks the Opal’s touchscreen or app connectivity.
Noise-wise, it’s louder than the Opal, with a compressor that buzzes noticeably. Cleaning is manual and tedious, requiring you to drain and scrub by hand, unlike the Opal’s automated cycle.
If you’re okay with bullet ice and want a cheap, fast machine, the EUHOMY works, but for nugget ice enthusiasts like me, the Opal 2.0’s superior texture and features win hands-down.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
With proper care, the Opal 2.0 can last five to seven years. Regular cleaning and using distilled water extend its life by preventing mineral buildup. I’ve had mine for over a year, and it’s still running like new with weekly maintenance.
The Opal’s insulated bin keeps ice frozen for about three to four hours, depending on room temperature. If you don’t use it, the ice slowly melts back into the reservoir, and the machine recycles it to make more. I’ve never had an issue with melting during parties, as it replenishes so quickly.
GE refrigerator ice makers often face issues with clogs or slow production, usually due to mineral buildup or a faulty water filter. While the Opal 2.0 is a countertop unit, I’ve avoided this by using distilled water and cleaning it regularly, which keeps it clog-free.
The GE Profile Opal 2.0 consistently tops reviews for its ice quality, quiet operation, and smart features. I’ve compared it to others, and while the NewAir produces more ice, the Opal’s sleek design, Wi-Fi connectivity, and perfect nuggets make it the crowd favorite in my book.
Wrapping Up: Your Ticket To Nugget Ice Nirvana
The GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker is a splurge worth making if you’re as ice-obsessed as I am. It delivers that crave-worthy nugget ice, looks stunning on your counter, and makes hosting a breeze with its smart features and speedy production.
Despite the price and space it demands, the joy of perfect ice in every drink is unmatched. Get ready to elevate your sipping game—grab an Opal 2.0 and thank me later.