SnoMaster SM-700 vs. SM150: Commercial Ice Machine Comparison
Quick verdict: The SM-700 ($8,700) suits high-volume venues, while the SM150 ($2,999) is ideal for smaller businesses needing NSF-certified ice.
Side-by-Specs: SM-700 vs. SM150
| Feature | SM-700 | SM150 | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $8,700 | $2,999 | SM150 |
| Daily Production | 700kg (1,543 lbs) | 150kg (330 lbs) | SM-700 |
| Storage Capacity | 320kg (705 lbs) | 120kg (265 lbs) | SM-700 |
| Ice Type | Square blocks (20x30x30mm) | Square blocks (25g cubes) | Tie |
| Certifications | Stainless steel construction | NSF/ANSI 12, Energy Star | SM150 |
Key Differences Explained
1. Production Scale & Use Cases
SM-700: Built for African climates and high-demand venues (hotels, event spaces). Produces 4.6x more ice than SM150.
SM150: Optimized for restaurants/bars with NSF certification for food safety.
2. ROI & Energy Efficiency
SM-700: Higher output justifies cost for vending businesses (ROI: 14–24 months).
SM150: Saves $3,650/year vs. bagged ice (Energy Star data). Pays off faster for small operations.
Pros & Cons
SM-700 ($8,700)
- ✅ Industrial output (700kg/day)
- ✅ Climate-hardened (harsh conditions)
- ✅ Large 320kg storage bin
- ❌ No NSF certification
- ❌ Requires 220-240V/15.5A power
SM150 ($2,999)
- ✅ NSF/ANSI 12 certified (food-safe)
- ✅ 30% energy savings (Energy Star)
- ✅ Compact for tight kitchens
- ❌ Lower production (150kg/day)
- ❌ Manual descaling needed
FAQs
Q: Which machine is better for a hotel in South Africa?
A: The SM-700 – its 700kg/day output and climate resilience meet high demand. For smaller hotels, the SM150 suffices.
Q: Does the SM150 support vending operations?
A: No – it’s plumbed-in only for behind-the-counter use. The SM-700 can be configured for vending.
Need Help Choosing?
Get a free consultation with our ice machine specialists:
Request Expert AdviceOr call +1 (856) 556-9428 (mention code ICE-COMPARE).