Different Types of Ice Cubes: Shape, Sizes and Features

In this post, I want to talk about all things ice. As you are well aware, ice comes in several different sizes and shapes. Depending on how you are using the ice determines the ice shape you’ll need.

Sometimes you’re not that concerned with the size or shape of the ice, and other times it makes a big difference.

When I go camping, I don’t care that much the ice or texture of the ice. I am more concerned about having ice and a lot of it. If I were whipping up a refreshing cup of iced coffee, I would care a little more about the size and texture of the ice that I’m serving.

Let’s take a closer look at the different shapes of ice and the popular uses for each of them.

Bullet Sized Ice

Bullet sized ice is produced using a portable ice maker.  The reason this ice looks like small bullets has to do with the way the ice is created. Water surrounds a small tube with freon and starts to build up ice around it. Over time, the ice forms into a small bullet shape is dropped into your ice tray for use.

Most portable ice makers have three sizes you can choose from – Small, medium and large. Some portable ice makers only have two sizes (small and large), but most will have at least two options.  

Portable ice makers are generic machines. There is no specific purpose for a portable ice maker and its ice; they can be used for anything or everything.

If you are looking for crushed ice you can purchase a great ice crusher from Amazon. The Hawaiian Shaved Ice Machine is my absolute favorite. 

If you are looking for ice and don’t care about texture, size or shape than a portable ice maker is probably your best choice.

 Nugget (or Sonic Ice)

Nugget-sized ice is soft and chewy. One of the best benefits of nugget ice is that it melts slowly and doesn’t dilute your drink.

>> THE BEST PORTABLE SONIC ICE MAKER IS THE OPAL NUGGET ICE MAKER

Those who are ice chewers (Yeah, that’s a real thing), often use nugget ice because it’s soft and better for your teeth.

Nugget ice is fabulous for carbonated drinks and cocktails, but is also used on salad bars and produce displays.

 Flaked Ice (Shaved)

Ice flakes are probably most popular at the fair on snow cones (my favorite flavor is cherry). Another place you’ll see flaked ice is at the supermarket at the seafood display. Usually, they lay out flaked ice on a display table and gently lay the prized catch on top.  

Flaked ice shows very well and has a sort-of clean look. Because the ice is soft and easy to blend, many people use it to mix drinks and produce several types of drink creations.

 Full Cubes

The cube is probably the most common shape of ice. When I even mention ice, it’s the first thing that comes to your mind.  There are so many places that serve cube-sized ice that I’m not going to try to list them all.

These slow-melting cubes of cold beloved by the food service industry and restaurants alike. Ice cubes are slowly melting, and because of their size, they cool a drink quickly.

 Half Cubes of Ice

 As you may have guessed by its title, half cubes are half the size of full cubes. These are very similar to full ice cubes as far as usage is concerned, but is often easier to handle and disperse than full cubes. Therefore, this type of ice is perfect for your cocktails and other cold drinks.

Crescent Ice

When you see this shape of ice, you’re going to think stars and especially the moon. The name crescent comes from its half-moon shape. This ice is excellent because of its small size and the ability to get more ice into your glass.

 Gourmet Ice

Gourmet ice is the ice you would find a high-end restaurant or a fancy dinner party. It’s clear to the eye and melts very slowly, so it doesn’t dilute your drink. 

Gourmet ice is shaped like a small shot glass and is very attractive in its appearance. It’s unique shape, and clear presentation makes this an excellent ice for your special events.