GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL Review: Chewable Ice on Demand

If you're someone who enjoys chewing on ice or needs a constant supply of ice for your beverages, the GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL nugget ice maker might catch your interest. This model boasts a hefty output of 38 pounds of ice per day, which is pretty appealing for anyone hosting frequent gatherings or running a small cafe.

The unit promises chewable, crunchy, and airy textured ice, made from compacted ice flakes. It's marketed as 'The Good Ice,' which intrigues anyone who prefers nugget ice over the traditional cubes. But does it live up to the hype? I decided to put it to the test for a couple of weeks to see if it holds up to its claims.

Right off the bat, the Opal 2.0 XL offers some tech features that stand out, like built-in WiFi connectivity and smart device integration. Whether these features are actually useful or just gimmicks is something I was keen to find out. Overall, it seems promising, but let's dive into the specifics and see how it performs in everyday use.

Is this device as innovative as it claims, or is it just another kitchen gadget destined to collect dust? Let's break it down.

The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL is not the cheapest countertop ice maker on the market, and this might make some hesitate. However, if you're specifically looking for nugget ice, there's a strong argument for its value. The ability to make 38 pounds of ice a day, along with the quality of the ice, does justify the price to an extent.

Compared to other ice makers I've used, this one stands out for its rapid production and the chewable texture of the ice. If those features are important to you, then you're getting a solid product. However, if you're okay with traditional ice cubes, you might find cheaper alternatives that suit your needs.

Another thing to consider is the maintenance cost. The machine requires regular cleaning and descaling to keep it running smoothly. It comes with a water filter and descaling powder, which is a nice touch, but you'll need to factor in future purchases of these items.

In terms of value, it depends on what you're looking for. If premium nugget ice is your goal, then this machine is a good investment. If not, you might want to explore other options.

The GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL has a modern, sleek look that would fit well in most kitchens. Its moonstone blue color is a nice touch, giving it a unique appearance compared to the usual stainless steel appliances. It measures 17.5 inches in depth, 13.43 inches in width, and 16.5 inches in height, which makes it fairly bulky for a countertop appliance.

While the size might be an issue for those with limited counter space, the build quality is pretty solid. It feels durable and well-constructed, which is reassuring given its price tag. The LED display is intuitive and makes it easy to check the ice-making status or adjust settings. There's also a removable drip tray and included ice scoop, which are convenient additions.

One design aspect I appreciated was the large-capacity ice bin. It holds up to 3 pounds of ice at a time, meaning you won't have to constantly empty it. That said, the unit's overall weight of 38 pounds means it isn't something you'll want to move around frequently. It's best to find a dedicated spot for it in your kitchen.

In terms of design, the Opal 2.0 XL looks good and feels sturdy, though its size might be a drawback for some. It's not the most compact ice maker out there, but if you've got the space, it should fit in nicely.

When it comes to performance, the GE Profile Opal 2.0 XL delivers on its promise of quick ice production. You can expect your first batch of ice in about 10 minutes, which is impressive if you're in a hurry. On a daily basis, it produces 38 pounds of ice, which is more than enough for regular use.

The quality of the ice is what sets this machine apart. The nugget ice is chewable and crunchy, and it holds its texture well in drinks. If you enjoy cocktails or simply like munching on ice, this machine does not disappoint in that department. The texture is consistent, and it doesn't clump together like traditional ice cubes.

The smart features are a nice bonus, though I found them to be a bit of a mixed bag. The WiFi connectivity is supposed to allow you to schedule ice production and receive updates, but the app can be somewhat finicky. It's a cool feature but not a necessity, especially if you're not tech-savvy.

Overall, the Opal 2.0 XL is reliable for producing good quality ice quickly. While the smart features might not be perfect, they don't detract from the main function, which is making ice.