Penguin Shaved Ice Maker vs Ice Cube Tray (2025 Review) Leave a comment
Introduction
As temperatures rise, finding efficient ways to stay cool becomes essential. Two innovative ice-making gadgets have recently gained popularity: the Penguin Manual Shaved Ice Maker and the “Upgradation Revolution” Ice Cube Tray.
we’ll explore:
- How each product works
- Performance tests & real-world results
- Pros, cons, and who should buy them
- Alternative options
- Final verdicts
1. Penguin Manual Shaved Ice Maker Review
1.1 Overview
- Price: $34.99
- Type: Hand-cranked, no electricity required
- Capacity: Makes ~2 small servings per ice puck
- Best For: Home use, camping, outdoor events
1.2 How It Works
- Fill the included cup with water and freeze overnight.
- Insert the ice puck into the penguin-shaped unit.
- Crank the handle to shave ice into a bowl.
- Add syrup or toppings for a refreshing treat.
1.3 Performance Test
- Texture: Starts powdery but improves when mixed with syrup.
- Ease of Use: Takes moderate effort to crank.
- Output: Only 2 small servings per ice puck.
- Ice Cube Test: Works better with frozen discs than loose ice cubes.
1.4 Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
✔ No electricity needed – Great for power outages or outdoor use.
✔ Cute, kid-friendly design – Fun for family activities.
✔ Reusable & eco-friendly – No disposable parts.
❌ Cons:
✖ Small yield – Not ideal for parties.
✖ Instructions not in English – Hard to set up initially.
✖ Texture not as fine as professional shavers – More “snow-like” than fluffy.
1.5 Who Should Buy It?
- Parents looking for a fun summer activity for kids.
- Campers who want a portable shaved ice solution.
- Budget-conscious buyers who don’t need commercial-grade results.
1.6 Alternatives
| Product | Price | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja Snow Cone Maker | $59 | Electric, faster, larger capacity | Families, frequent use |
| Hawaiian Shaved Ice S900A | $199 | Commercial-grade, ultra-fine ice | Serious shaved ice lovers |
2. “Upgradation Revolution” Ice Cube Tray Review
2.1 Overview
- Price: $10.99 (2-pack)
- Type: Silicone ice mold with a twist-release mechanism
- Capacity: ~1 cup of ice per tray
- Best For: Small households, cocktails, iced coffee
2.2 How It Works
- Fill with water up to the marked line (about 6 oz).
- Freeze for 4+ hours.
- Twist & squeeze to release ice cubes.
2.3 Performance Test
- Ease of Release: Works better than older models (e.g., Ice Genie).
- Ice Quality: Small, uniform cubes – Good for drinks.
- Freezer Issues: Bulges slightly when freezing.
2.4 Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
✔ No leftover ice layer – Unlike cheaper trays.
✔ Compact & stackable – Saves freezer space.
✔ Better than similar products – Easier ice release.
❌ Cons:
✖ Small capacity – Only ~1 cup per tray.
✖ Confusing instructions – Poor English translations.
✖ Bulging issue – May leak if overfilled.
2.5 Who Should Buy It?
- Cocktail enthusiasts who want small, uniform cubes.
- Small apartment dwellers with limited freezer space.
- Anyone tired of traditional ice trays sticking.
2.6 Alternatives
| Product | Price | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tovolo Perfect Cube Tray | $15 | Large, clear cubes | Whiskey drinkers |
| OXO Good Grips Ice Tray | $13 | Easy lever release | Everyday use |
3. Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Penguin Shaved Ice Maker | “Upgradation” Ice Tray |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $34.99 | $10.99 (2-pack) |
| Ice Type | Shaved/snow-like | Small cubes |
| Capacity | 2 servings per puck | ~1 cup per tray |
| Best Use | Desserts, outdoor fun | Drinks, small batches |
| Electricity Needed? | No | No |
| Ease of Cleaning | Hand wash | Dishwasher safe |
4. Long-Term Testing Insights
4.1 Penguin Shaved Ice Maker After 1 Month
- Durability: Holds up well with regular use.
- Maintenance: Requires thorough drying to prevent rust.
- User Tip: Pre-freeze flavored water (like lemonade) for tastier results.
4.2 Ice Cube Tray After 1 Month
- Durability: Silicone remains flexible.
- Issues: Minor staining from coffee/tea ice cubes.
- User Tip: Don’t overfill to avoid bulging.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can the Penguin Maker use regular ice cubes?
A: Yes, but results are coarser and harder to crank. Frozen discs work best.
Q2: Does the ice tray leak in the freezer?
A: If overfilled, yes. Stick to the fill line.
Q3: Which is better for parties?
A: Neither is ideal for large groups. Consider an electric shaved ice machine or large silicone trays instead.
6. Final Verdicts
🐧 Penguin Shaved Ice Maker: 3.5/5
- Good for: Casual use, kids, outdoor fun.
- Skip if: You need large quantities or ultra-fine ice.
❄️ “Upgradation” Ice Tray: 4/5
- Good for: Small-batch ice, cocktails, saving space.
- Skip if: You need big cubes or high volume.
7. Where to Buy
Conclusion
Both gadgets deliver on their promises, but with key limitations.
- Penguin Maker = Fun but niche.
- Ice Tray = Practical but small.
For best results:
✔ Pair the Penguin Maker with flavored syrups.
✔ Use the ice tray for single-serve drinks.
Which would you choose? Let us know in the comments! 🧊👇
#IceMakers #KitchenGadgets #SummerEssentials #HomeHacks
