Is the GE Profile Opal Ultra worth it?
A top pick in Appliances on Amazon (#13 when we checked, Oct 24, 2026)
Worth it if It is worth considering if you regularly want soft, chewable nugget ice and have room for a countertop machine with a 1-gallon side tank. The GE Profile Opal Ultra suits families, home bars and frequent entertaining with a removable 3-pound bin, WiFi control and a first batch in about 10 minutes.
Good to know: If you mainly want occasional ice or have limited counter space, look for a smaller ice maker with a simpler setup.
A nugget ice maker built for fewer refills
The counter is where this appliance earns its keep. The GE Profile Opal Ultra makes nugget ice from compacted flakes, creating the soft, chewable texture people choose for iced coffee, cocktails and smoothies. The first batch is listed at about 10 minutes, and the maker produces up to 1.6 pounds per hour.
The useful design choice is the included 1-gallon side tank. It expands the water supply beyond the machine itself, so you can keep production going with fewer trips to the sink. The tank detaches for filling and cleaning, and the listing says melted ice recirculates automatically. That matters during a gathering, when an empty reservoir is one more task nobody wants.
The removable 3-pound bin gives you a ready supply, while the machine is rated for up to 38 pounds of ice per day. That is a substantial countertop footprint at 17.5 inches deep, 13.43 inches wide and 16.5 inches high, though the stainless steel body is listed as fitting under most cabinets.
SmartHQ adds remote starts, scheduling, cleaning reminders and software updates. Alexa and Google Home support hands-free commands. The honest trade is that this is a substantial appliance, and the listing also calls for filters and periodic descaling.
You are paying for a dedicated supply of chewable nugget ice, a larger water reserve, smart controls and included maintenance items rather than occasional batches from a basic ice maker. It can replace repeated sink refills during family use or entertaining.
Great for
- Nugget-ice fans who want soft, chewable ice for drinks
- Families that want a larger ice supply at home
- Hosts who need fewer water refills during gatherings
- Home bars and offices with suitable counter space
Maybe not for you if
- You only make ice occasionally and prefer a smaller appliance
- Your counter cannot accommodate the listed footprint
- You would rather avoid filter changes and periodic descaling
The GE Profile Opal Ultra makes sense for a committed nugget-ice buyer, not someone seeking an occasional appliance. Its soft chewable ice, 1-gallon side tank, 3-pound bin and stated production capacity suit family kitchens, home bars, offices and gatherings. WiFi scheduling and cleaning reminders add useful control, while the included filter and descaling powder support routine care. Make sure the 17.5-inch depth and 13.43-inch width work on your counter, then it can make the ice routine easier.
Amazon shoppers rate it 3.5 out of 5 across 430 ratings. That is their number, not ours.
Want the full picture? Read our GE Profile Opal Ultra review.
Quick answers before you buy
How much ice does the GE Profile Opal Ultra make?
The listing rates it for up to 38 pounds per day and 1.6 pounds per hour, with a removable 3-pound storage bin.
Does it need a water line?
No. The included 1-gallon side tank lets it produce ice away from the sink, and the tank detaches for filling and cleaning.
Can I control it from my phone?
Yes. The SmartHQ app can start or schedule production, send cleaning reminders and provide software updates. Alexa and Google Home voice control are also supported.
What are the machine's dimensions?
It measures 17.5 inches deep by 13.43 inches wide by 16.5 inches high. Check your available counter and cabinet clearance before ordering.
What is included in the box?
The listed components are the ice maker, drip tray and ice scoop. The feature listing also includes a water filter and descaling powder.
The spec sheet, for those who want it
| Brand Name | Profile |
|---|---|
| Model Name | XPIOX3SZSS |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Warranty Description | Limited 1 year |
| Included Components | Ice Maker, Drip Tray, Ice Scoop |
| Model Number | XPIOX3SZSS |
| Part Number | XPIOX3SZSS |
| Capacity | 3 pounds |
| Wattage | 300 watts |
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Ice Production per Day | 38 pounds |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 17.5"D x 13.43"W x 16.5"H |
| Refrigerant | R600a |
| Material Type | Stainless Steel |
| Brand | Profile |
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