While it might surprise you, shaved ice is more commonly enjoyed at home than at a restaurant. If you love shaved ice and want to be able to enjoy this treat year-round, then consider buying a machine for home use. There are two different types of shaved ice machines, block ice machines and cube ice machines, and different modes of automation to choose from.

We’ll break down the differences between each one in this article so you can pick the perfect shaved ice machine for your family. Let’s get started!

Block Ice Machines

Block ice machines are probably what you think of when you think of traditional Hawaiian ice. These large shaved ice machines create fluffy shaved ice that melts in your mouth and captures flavor well to create full, vibrant bites.

With a block shaver, you freeze large blocks of ice in advance using a three-quart round cylinder container. You can typically find these at a grocery store or from a restaurant supply company (if they can ship to your area). Ideally, you’ll have a second freezer in your garage or a large freezer in your kitchen that can hold these large containers.

The day before you want to eat shave ice, you’ll need to fill the containers with water and freeze them on level ground. Freeze them starting in the morning the day before you need the shaved ice, so it at least 24 hours to completely freeze.

Block ice machines are heavier, so you’ll need a friend to help you move them. You can shave ice at 4.6lb per minute, so block shavers are great for home or events at school or church.

However, block and cube ice machines are equal in popularity, so you’ll be happy with either one you choose! Block shavers are a bit more expensive on average, but they produce the traditional, finely shaved ice that people love.

Cube Ice Machines

If you want a machine that will take up less space in your home and is more manageable to move, then consider a cube ice machine. These shaved ice machines are 20 pounds lighter than block shavers, so you only need one person to take the machine out of storage.

Cube ice machines use regular cubed ice that you can get at a grocery store. This means they’re much more flexible to use. When you have a craving for shaved ice last minute, this machine can make you some ASAP. Plus, the HC-8E cube shaver can make shaved ice that tastes just like a block shaver.

If you have young children, you may be better off with a cube shaver. The blade is covered so children are less likely to hurt themselves on the machine accidentally. Plus, if you want to use this for a school event, these have a higher output volume of 6 pounds per minute.

Modes of Operation

The block ice machine comes in two varieties: manual and automatic. There’s only one manually operated shaved ice machine, the Hatsuyuki HA-110S manual block ice shaver. If you want to make shaved ice at outdoor events where there may not always be electricity, then a manual shaver is a good idea.

Plus, the manual shaver offers a fun, vintage look with an easy-to-turn crank that everyone will want a chance to spin.

The other option is to purchase an automatic shaver. These automatically shave the ice for you and offer great safety features like automatic turn-off when the lid is opened. These shaved ice machines must be plugged in, so you do need an outlet nearby to use them.

Purchase the Best Shaved Ice Machines at Real Hawaiian Ice

Real Hawaiian Ice is the lead national distributor for Hatsuyuki shaved ice machines, so we’re able to offer the lowest prices on both machines and supplies. Check out our shaved ice machines and give us a call if you have any questions so we can set you up with the right shaved ice machine for your needs.