As an adult, the sight of a cup full of crushed ice probably sends your mind directly to thoughts of a frozen margarita. The best slushie machine can quickly whip up frozen margaritas, but that’s not all they can do.
Just about everybody, from children to adults, love a nice, refreshing slushy on a hot summer’s day. If you’ve ever bought a slushy at the convenience store, you likely have wondered whether it would be possible to avoid the extra expense and effort and make yourself a slush drink at home.
The good news? Absolutely.
In fact, there are many slushie machines available for both home and commercial use. The best slushie machines are not only easy to use, but are perfect for social gatherings, occasional treats, and even as a money-maker for your small business.
We’ve done the research for you and put together a list of our favorite slush machines available for you to buy.
9 BEST SLUSHIE MACHINES
When it comes to slush machines, price ranges and features widely vary.
As a result, we’ve broken down the best slushie machines into three categories:
- Best For Home
- Best Affordable
- Best Commercial
BEST OVERALL SLUSHIE MACHINES FOR HOME
Margaritaville Tahiti Frozen Concoction Maker
The name says it all! Nothing says summer beverages quite like “Margaritaville,” and this frozen concoction maker definitely does not disappoint.
It comes with three 24-ounce blending jars that allow you to create six or more different kinds of drinks at a time.
Some favorites include daiquiris, coladas, mudslides, mojitos, smoothies, and of course, margaritas.
What’s great about this slush machine is that you don’t need to worry about adding ice each time you want to make a drink.
Instead, the rotating ice chute inside the machine creates enough ice for your drinks. Made out of premium bamboo wood, this slush machine has a brushed aluminum and polished stainless steel finish.
Worried about counter space? The entire unit measures in at 19.34″ x 19.5″ x 19.5″.
Pros
- Includes a limited 1 year manufacturer’s warranty
- Makes multiple drinks at one time
- Rotating ice chute
Cons
- Some reviewers find it slightly loud and bulky
Margaritaville Key West Frozen Concoction Maker with Easy Pour Jar and XL Ice Reservoir
Another slush machine by Margaritaville, the Key West Frozen Concoction Maker, makes our list of the best overall slush machines for home.
This slush machine features four separate drinks settings that allow you to pick your ideal drink consistency.
More compact than the Tahiti model, the Key West fits well into any home. The trade off is that the Key West can only make one pitcher at a time.
We really like how easy it is to operate. It also has a nifty easy-pour design that cuts down on spills.
Like the Tahiti, it comes with a limited one-year warranty.
Pros
- Compact size for small kitchens
- Strong 450W motor
- Easy to maintain
Cons
- May not be big enough for large parties
BEST AFFORDABLE SLUSH MACHINES
Nostalgia RSM650COKE 32- Ounce Slush Drink Maker
Coca Cola lovers rejoice!
This is not only one of the best slush machines for soda lovers, but our best affordable slush machine.
Not only can it make you a beloved Coca Cola slushy, but it can create any other type of drink for you as well.
This slush machine contains all the features you need and want; including an easy-pour dispenser to pour your slushies without spilling.
A miniature unit, it’s easier and more efficient to operate than many of the other slush machines on our list. The tank is even detachable to allow for quick and easy cleaning.
The Nostalgia slush machine is unique because it does not have a condenser, but instead uses crushed ice to freeze your juices and other sugar-based drinks quickly and effectively.
While its capacity is less than other slush machines, the Nostalgia takes up minimal space, meaning you can easily stash it in a cupboard, or leave it out on the counter while still having space for other appliances.
Made out of BPA-free materials, it has a drip tray and a cup stand that is fully detachable.
Pros
- Compact size
- Easy flow spout
- Easy to maintain due to detachable tank and drip tray
Cons
- Higher noise levels
BEST COMMERCIAL SLUSH MACHINES FOR BUSINESS
Omega OFS20 Commercial 1/3-Horsepower 710-Watt Granita Machine
The Omega Granita Machine is one of the best slush machines you’ll find – even if it’s steaming hot outside, you’ll still be able to make up to six gallons of drinks in less than an hour and a half with this efficient commercial machine.
The Omega slush machine contains two separate three-gallon containers, each of which has rotating blades to create the perfect consistency for your slushie drink.
Measuring just 15″ x 18.5″ x 33.25”, this unit is compact for a commercial slush machine.
Constructed with rugged stainless steel and impact-resistant plastic, it’s an easy machine to clean.
As a commercial-grade slush machine, it’s not the cheapest option you’ll find. However, it’s perfect for serving guests or customers as it has a unique one-handed option for dispensing.
Pros
- Commercial grade quality
- Made of strong, durable materials
- Convenient single hand dispensing
Cons
- High price for home use
Happybuy Slushy Machine 110V Margarita Maker Frozen Drink Machine
The name of this slush machine says it all – happiness ensues when you pull an ice cold margarita from this slush machine.
The Happybuy Slushy Machine contains a two-sided refrigeration system to keep your beverages cold at all times. It also has two separate chambers for making slush that makes it possible to produce two different types of beverages at the same time.
This commercial-grade slush machine is equipped with some pretty sophisticated technology. Not only does it have an electromagnetic transmission shaft, but it also contains well engineered parts that are built to last; such as a tank that is durable and made out of PC, a nearly indestructible and removable material.
Not only can you make slushies out of this machine, but you can also make fruit juices, cocktails, teas, coffees, and cappuccinos.
Perfect for use in a commercial setting like a bar, restaurant, or small cafe, it’s also great for the entertaining homeowner. It contains two separate 12-liter tanks that can help keep your drinks chilled and readily available at all times.
Pros
- Large and durable tanks
- Powerful transmission shaft
- Makes multiple types of beverage at once
Cons
- Some reviewers have had problems contacting customer service
Margarita Girl Double-Bowl Full Size Margarita Slush Frozen Drink Machine
The Margarita Girl Double-Bowl Slush Frozen Drink Machine is just one of multiple Margarita Girl slush machines that are considered some of the best heavy duty slush machines on the market.
This two-tank, high-capacity machine is a margarita-making monster. It can make drinks for 100 guests at a time – perfect for use in a commercial setting.
Not only can you get some pretty delicious slushies out of this machine, but you can also use it to make other favorite drinks, like smoothies and margaritas – as the name implies.
It is solidly built and consists of panels that are made out of stainless steel and plastic, which can be removed at any time for quick and easy cleaning.
The Margarita Girl slush machine offers exceptional control over the consistency, quality, and flavor of your drinks. It also has unique protections that prevent it from freezing up, a unique feature that allows your drinks to remain the proper texture and temperature at all times. It even has an easy pour spout to reduce the likelihood of spills.
Pros
- Can be used for commercial or residential use
- High capacity and 1/3 HP blender power
- Keeps drinks properly chilled
Cons
- Heavy – approximately 100 lbs.
BRAVO ITALIA 2 Bowls Slushie Machine
A two-bowl slush machine, this unit by Bravo can also produce up to 100 drinks at a time for your guests. However, it is another commercial-grade machine that can also suit the needs of the average homeowner.
Equipped with rigid bowls and a rugged stainless-steel build, this slush machine has a unique design that complements the appearance of any setting it might be placed in.
With pour spouts, cup holders, and drip trays, along with easy-to-access controls, this machine easily made our list of best commercial slush machines.
Pros
- Easy to operate and clean
- Unbreakable bowls
- Commercial grade materials
Cons
- Heavy bowls
VBENLEM Slushy Making Machine
Another high-capacity commercial slush machine on our list is the VBENLEM Slush Making Machine.
The VBENLEM is equipped with two separate 15-liter capacity tanks. It operates quietly, containing air cooling units that help keep your drinks nice and cold, and prevent your machine from overheating.
Made out of safe PC materials, this product is nontoxic, unbreakable, and anti-foaming.
Plus, all of its parts are removable for easy cleaning. Compatible with all kinds of syrups, juices, coffees, and teas, this slush machine has an easy-pour spout to allow you to serve your drinks with ease. It also has a spill catcher to prevent further messes.
All of the controls in this unit are guarded by a transparent cover. They won’t become as sticky as you or your employees operate this machine.
You can mix two separate drinks at a time with the VBENLEM machine, and it consumes less power than comparable units.
Pros
- High capacity
- Low noise
- Removable tanks
- Easy pour spout and spill catcher
Cons
- Some reviewers have found this unit to take longer than other
BUNN Ultra-2 Gourmet Ice Frozen Drink Machine
This slush machine by Bunn has a unique design that minimizes the amount of air that accidentally gets mixed inside your slush.
It is also optimized to expedite freeze times. Easy to program with a touch-pad display, this machine can be used to make any kind of slushie in your home – as well as various sodas and alcoholic beverages as well.
One of the nicest features of this slush machine is that the consistency of your slush can be digitally adjusted for each bowl.
This is a super handy feature to have, especially if you want to make two different kinds of drinks.
Reviewers really like how the Bunn can freeze a bowl in just an hour.
Pros
- Slush thickness can be adjusted for each bowl
- Freezes quickly
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Does not have an automatic refill option
WHY DO YOU NEED A SLUSH MACHINE?
As a Homeowner
Even if you only enjoy the occasional slushy drink, investing in a machine for your home is well worth it.
There are so many flavors you can experiment with, so you’ll never be bored.
The best slush machines will also allow you to alter ingredients for dietary needs or taste preferences. You can make a slushy that you can’t find anywhere else, and you can often make other iced beverages, like coffee slushies and of course, margaritas.
Plus, it’s way more convenient than having to run out to the store. If you’re having a blended drink option at your next party, you’ll already have the equipment on hand to whip up large batches quickly.
Oh, and let’s not forget – if you are a parent and have a slush machine in your home, you are going to be the most popular home on the block. The neighborhood kids will love you!
As a Business
If you own a business, having a slush machine in your customers’ line of sight can drastically improve your overall revenue.
On a hot summer day, there’s nothing consumers love more than to see the cold slush moving around in the machine. It’s even better if you operate a business that is child- or family-focused!
There are several types of commercial slush machines, each of which varies slightly depending on how the drinks are prepared.
A pour-over slush machine involves mixing the drinks manually and then adding them to the machine for cooling. A liquid auto-fill machine will draw drink mix from a supply inside a box, while a powdered auto-fill slush machine will use a powder to be mixed with water and ice.
BUYER’S GUIDE: HOW TO FIND THE BEST SLUSHIE MACHINE
In the market for your first-ever slush machine? Here’s how to find the best slush machines for any budget or need.
Type of Machine
There are several types of slush machines, each of which varies in how you mix and add products.
A pour-over machine requires you to mix and add products manually, while an auto-fill option will allow you to use an external or internal supply of mix to create your beverages.
In our opinion, a liquid autofill is the best slushie machine for commercial use.
It saves time and money and provides a more consistent product. However, it requires an external pump to supply the water, so there will be some added expense there. A powdered auto-fill can also cut back on labor and provide a consistent product but requires the same water pump.
A pour-over machine is one of the most common types of slush machines for home use.
It has no autofill system and is, therefore, easier to operate and clean. It also has fewer moving parts.
It’s the least expensive type of slush machine, and it’s also the best slush machine for beginners. However, it does require a bit more labor to make each slush.
Portion Sizes and Serving Capacity
Think carefully about how many people you intend to serve with your slush machine.
When you are looking at the features of the slush machine you are interested in buying, this will usually be marketed in terms of “bowls.” Usually, a three-bowl slushy will have an eight-gallon capacity, while a two-bowl will have six gallons.
Generally, a residential slush machine only needs to be a single bowl, while a commercial model might be double, triple, or even more.
Home vs. Commercial Use
We already mentioned the various benefits of having a slushie machine at home and a business above. However, it’s important for you to hone in on your specific desired use before you invest in a slush machine.
While a high-capacity slushie machine is perfect for commercial applications, possessing a high-powered motor and durable parts, it really isn’t necessary for home use and might be overkill.
Refrigeration Method
Some slush machines have built-in cooling systems. Others need to be supplied with ice.
The best route is to choose a slush machine that has a built-in refrigeration system, as this will cut down on the need for manual labor.
You won’t need to load the machine with ice each time you use it, allowing for a more seamless operation.
Beverage Type
While there are plenty of slush machines out there that can make all kinds of beverages, from those including dairy to even ones that have alcohol in them, some slush machines only can work with commercially-prepared mixes.
This can be quite cumbersome and cost-prohibitive if you want to use your slush machine for making other kinds of drinks.
Maintenance
As with all appliances, it’s important for you to keep your equipment clean and in good working order. You will need to clean and sanitize your slushie machine on a regular basis. Usually, this only involves a quick wipe-down once a day (if the machine is being used every day) as well as a thorough cleaning every week.
In general, the easiest slush machines to care for will be those that don’t involve blending. These have fewer parts to clean and are inherently easier to use. Some slush machines are also dishwasher-safe, another added bonus to consider.
Make sure the slushie machine you purchase is easy to break down and clean, and also ensure that the replacement costs (including costs for ingredients like syrups, mixers, and powders) fit within your budget.
Price
You can find slushie machines at all levels and price points. You can get a basic machine for less than a trip to the movies or you can splurge by investing serious coin into a slush machine that will last for years.
Consider how much you will use the slush machine when you’re figuring out your budget because this will give you an idea of how much the investment is actually worth to you.
BRING THE FUN WITH A SLUSHY MACHINE
Why do you need a slush machine?
To be fair, a slushie machine is probably considered a luxury by many homeowners. However, without one, you’re denying yourself one of life’s simple pleasures.
It can be difficult to find a slush machine that best meets your needs, but the best slush machine for you will be the one that has all the features you crave – such as the ability to also make smoothies or to auto-mix with the perfect proportions.
So what are you waiting for? Now that you know everything you need to know about the best slushie machines, it’s time to get out there and start shopping – your first margarita is waiting.