The GE Profile Opal ice maker is down to $367 this Black Friday, saving $232 on a model that typically sells for $599. This nugget ice maker earned 4.5 stars from 5,235 customers and delivers restaurant-quality chewable ice without plumbing. We’re breaking down whether this 39% discount makes it the right time to buy.
Black Friday Deal Summary: What You’re Getting
The GE Profile Opal XPIO13SCSS is currently selling for $367 at Masters Wholesale, marked down from its $599 MSRP. That’s a $232 savings and a 39% discount on a premium countertop ice maker.
This Black Friday price includes the 14-inch stainless steel unit, the detachable side tank (a major value-add we’ll explain shortly), an ice scoop, and compatibility with the P4INKFILTER water filter system. The model is in stock now, though availability can shift quickly during major sales events.
Most sales on this model hover around $450 to $500, making the $367 GE Opal Black Friday price the lowest we’ve tracked for this feature set. For context, basic ice makers cost $100 to $200, while premium nugget ice makers typically range from $400 to $700.
Quick Verdict: Is This Black Friday Deal Worth It?
Yes, if you’ve been waiting for nugget ice at a reasonable price. The 39% discount brings smart features and premium ice quality into reach for many more households.
The 5,235 customer reviews averaging 4.5 stars place this in the 90th percentile for satisfaction, validating its reliability across thousands of kitchens. The included side tank alone adds significant value by tripling the effective production capacity, cutting down on refill trips dramatically.
This deal makes sense for nugget ice enthusiasts who want sonic-style ice at home, smart home users who value app and voice control, and anyone who entertains regularly. The GE Profile Opal produces 38 pounds of ice daily and delivers the first batch in just 10 minutes.
Skip this if you only need basic ice cubes or if counter space is extremely limited. The unit measures 13.43 inches wide by 17.5 inches deep, so you’ll need adequate room. Budget shoppers wanting the absolute cheapest option should look at basic cube makers, though they won’t get nugget ice or smart features.
What Is the GE Profile Opal Ice Maker?
The GE Profile Opal is a premium countertop ice maker that produces nugget ice, the soft, chewable ice you find at Sonic Drive-In and high-end restaurants. The 14-inch freestanding design fits on most counters and features a stainless steel finish that matches modern appliances.
This model stands out for its smart technology integration. Built-in WiFi connects to the SmartHQ app, enabling remote control through your phone or voice commands via Alexa and Google Assistant. You can schedule ice production, monitor status, and receive notifications from anywhere.
The XPIO13SCSS doesn’t require plumbing or a drain connection, making it truly portable. Fill the reservoir manually or attach the included side tank for extended operation. At 37.65 pounds, it’s movable but substantial enough to stay put during normal use.
GE Profile’s reputation for appliance quality carries over here. The unit draws 2.5 amps at 120 volts, working with standard outlets. Automatic software updates keep the system current without any effort on your part.
Why Nugget Ice Makes This Special
Nugget ice transforms drinks in ways regular cubes can’t match. The soft, porous texture absorbs flavors from sodas, cocktails, and iced coffee, enhancing taste with every sip. You can chew it comfortably without hurting your teeth, a texture preference that drives fierce loyalty among nugget ice fans.
This ice style cools drinks quickly thanks to its high surface area, while the chewable quality makes it genuinely enjoyable to consume. Blenders handle it more easily than hard cubes, and it layers beautifully in glasses for presentation.
The trade-off is that nugget ice melts faster than solid cubes due to its aerated structure. For most people who value the texture and flavor absorption, this is a worthwhile compromise. Restaurants charge premium prices for drinks with nugget ice, and the GE Profile Opal brings that experience home at $367 during this Black Friday sale.
Key Features: What $367 Gets You This Black Friday
The $232 savings on this GE Opal Black Friday deal don’t mean compromised features. This model packs the full premium feature set that justifies the original $599 price.
Smart Technology & Connectivity
The built-in WiFi and SmartHQ app give you genuine control over ice production from your phone. We’ve found the scheduling feature particularly useful for having ice ready before guests arrive or stopping production during quiet hours. The system connects to your home network and stays responsive.
Voice control through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant works reliably once you’ve set up the SmartHQ app. Simple commands like “Alexa, start making ice” or “Hey Google, stop the ice maker” handle basic functions. Remote monitoring sends notifications when the bin is full or the reservoir needs water.
Automatic software updates improve functionality over time without requiring manual downloads or installations. The system checks for updates when connected to WiFi and installs them during idle periods.
Ice Production & Capacity
The 38 pounds per day capacity handles everything from daily family use to large gatherings. That translates to roughly 1.6 pounds per hour of continuous operation, keeping the 3-pound storage bin supplied.
The first batch arrives in 10 minutes from startup, much faster than most ice makers. This matters when you’ve forgotten to prep ice before company arrives or when demand suddenly spikes.
The detachable side tank is where this model really pulls ahead of competitors. It triples the effective production time between manual refills, turning a machine that might need attention every few hours into one that can run most of the day unattended. The Batch Made Ice system automatically pulls water from the side tank to keep production going.
Without the side tank, you’ll fill the main reservoir more frequently. For light use, that’s manageable. For parties or high-volume days, the side tank (included with the XPIO13SCSS) is essential.
Convenience Features
No plumbing requirement means you can place this anywhere you have a power outlet and counter space. Move it to different locations, take it to a rental property, or set it up in an RV without installation work.
The LED touchscreen display provides clear status information and simple controls. Even without opening the app, you can see production status, bin level, and any maintenance reminders at a glance.
The advanced cleaning system includes built-in sanitize and descale functions that automate most maintenance. Run these cycles regularly and the machine stays hygienic with minimal effort. Manual cleaning still helps, but the automated systems handle the heaviest work.
Water filter compatibility with the P4INKFILTER improves ice quality and protects internal components from mineral buildup. Filters need periodic replacement, but the benefit shows in clearer ice and longer machine life.
Customer Reviews
With 5,235 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the GE Profile Opal has one of the largest and most positive review datasets we see for ice makers. That 90th percentile satisfaction rating comes from verified buyers who’ve used the machine in real kitchens, not controlled testing environments.
Longevity reports come back as good, meaning this isn’t a machine that frequently fails in the first year or two. Customers report years of reliable service when properly maintained, validating the investment even at the full $599 price.
What Customers Love
The nugget ice quality tops the praise list consistently. Reviews mention the perfect chewable texture, how well it absorbs drink flavors, and the satisfaction of having sonic-style ice at home without driving to a restaurant.
Smart features get genuine appreciation rather than being dismissed as gimmicks. The scheduling function helps people wake up to fresh ice, and remote monitoring catches water refill needs before the machine sits idle. Voice control works reliably enough that people actually use it.
Production speed impresses new owners. That 10-minute first batch matters when you’re hosting and realize the ice situation late. Continuous operation keeps up with reasonable demand without long gaps.
The side tank receives special mention as a game-changing feature. People who initially questioned its value quickly discover how much better the machine performs with extended water capacity. The detachable design lets you use it when needed and remove it when counter space is tight.
Common Concerns & Solutions
Operational noise during ice production appears in reviews as a realistic expectation to set. The machine isn’t silent while making ice, producing normal mechanical sounds from the compressor and ice formation process. It’s not louder than most ice makers, and the scheduling feature lets you avoid production during sleep or quiet hours.
Regular cleaning maintenance is required, not optional. Customers who skip cleaning cycles see performance degradation and potential mold issues. The built-in sanitize and descale functions make this easier than it could be, but you still need to run them on schedule.
Filter replacement with the P4INKFILTER adds ongoing cost but improves ice quality noticeably. Customers who use filtered water report clearer ice and fewer mineral deposits inside the machine.
Nugget ice melts faster than solid cubes, a physics reality rather than a defect. Reviews confirm this trade-off, with most people accepting it gladly for the superior texture. If you need ice to last for hours in a cooler, traditional cubes work better.
Manual water filling without the side tank requires attention every few hours under heavy use. The side tank solves this problem, but if you choose to remove it for space reasons, expect more frequent trips to refill the reservoir.
How It Works: Daily Use & Maintenance
Understanding actual operation helps set realistic expectations for the GE Profile Opal before you buy.
Setup & Installation
Pull it from the box, place it on a counter near a 120-volt outlet, and you’re mostly done. Level the unit if your counter has any slope, then fill the reservoir or attach the side tank with water.
Connect to your WiFi network through the SmartHQ app if you want smart features. This is optional but unlocks scheduling, remote control, and voice commands. The machine works fine without WiFi if you prefer manual operation.
Press the power button and the first batch starts forming. You’ll hear the compressor kick on and water cycling through the system. Ten minutes later, nugget ice drops into the bin. Production continues automatically until the bin fills or the water runs out.
Ongoing Maintenance
The built-in cleaning functions handle most maintenance tasks. Run the sanitize cycle every few weeks to prevent bacteria and mold growth. The descale function removes mineral buildup that can affect performance and ice quality.
Replace the water filter periodically based on use and water hardness. Hard water areas need more frequent changes, while soft water extends filter life. The P4INKFILTER is available separately when needed.
Wipe the exterior with a soft cloth and mild cleaner to maintain the stainless steel finish. Fingerprints show on stainless steel, so quick wipes keep it looking sharp.
Software updates download and install automatically when the unit is connected to WiFi and idle. You won’t notice these happening, but they can add features or improve performance over time.
Is $367 a Good Price? Deal Analysis
The $599 MSRP for the XPIO13SCSS reflects its premium positioning in the ice maker market. Smart features, nugget ice technology, and the included side tank justify that price for people who want those capabilities.
Black Friday sales typically bring this model down to $450 to $500, which is decent but not exceptional. The current $367 price at Masters Wholesale represents the best deal we’ve tracked, beating typical sale prices by $83 to $133.
Compare this to basic ice makers at $100 to $200, which produce standard cubes without smart features or nugget ice capability. You’re paying more for specific benefits: the chewable ice texture, app control, voice integration, and side tank convenience.
Other premium nugget ice makers range from $400 to $700, placing this GE Opal Black Friday deal at the low end of the premium segment. You’re getting high-end features at near-entry prices, a combination that rarely aligns outside major sales events.
The included accessories add value that isn’t obvious from price alone. The side tank sells separately on some models and dramatically improves usability. The ice scoop and filter compatibility are small touches that complete the package.
For $367, you’re getting smart features and nugget ice technology that would cost $100 to $200 more at typical sale prices and $232 more at full retail. The deal quality is legitimate.
Who Should Buy the GE Opal This Black Friday
This deal makes sense for certain people, not everyone who needs ice.
Best For These Scenarios
Home entertainers who host regularly will use the 38-pound daily capacity and appreciate having premium ice ready. The scheduling feature lets you prep ice before events, and the side tank keeps production running during parties.
Nugget ice enthusiasts who love sonic-style ice but hate driving to get it will find daily value. If you’re already buying bagged nugget ice or visiting Sonic regularly, this pays for itself in convenience.
Smart home users who value connectivity and control will actually use the WiFi, app, and voice features. If your home already integrates Alexa or Google Assistant, adding the ice maker to your routine is seamless.
Rental properties or RVs benefit from the no-plumbing requirement. Move it wherever you need ice without calling a plumber or modifying countertops. The portable design suits temporary or flexible living situations.
Offices and break rooms gain a perk that employees genuinely appreciate. Nugget ice elevates the drink experience, and the 38-pound capacity handles moderate teams.
Family daily use works well if multiple people consume ice regularly. The combination of capacity, speed, and side tank support keeps up with typical household demand.
Consider Alternatives If…
You just need basic ice cubes and don’t care about texture or smart features. Standard ice makers cost $100 to $300 less and deliver cubes that last longer in drinks.
Counter space is extremely limited in your kitchen. The 13.43-inch width and 17.5-inch depth require adequate room, and you need additional space around it for ventilation and side tank access.
Your budget absolutely maxes out under $300, even during Black Friday. While $367 is an excellent price for what you’re getting, it’s still more than basic alternatives. Waiting for deeper discounts means gambling on availability.
You never use smart features on other appliances. If app control and voice commands feel like unused complexity rather than helpful tools, you’re paying for capabilities you won’t enjoy.
Specifications & Technical Details
Specification | Details |
|---|---|
Model Number | XPIO13SCSS |
Dimensions | 13.43″W x 16.5″H x 17.5″D |
Appliance Fit Width | 14 inches |
Weight | 37.65 lbs |
Daily Ice Capacity | 38 lbs/day (1.6 lbs/hour) |
Storage Bin | 3 lbs |
First Batch Time | 10 minutes |
Ice Type | Nugget (soft, chewable) |
Installation Type | Freestanding, countertop |
Water Line Required | No |
Side Tank Included | Yes (detachable) |
Water Filter | P4INKFILTER compatible |
Electrical | 120V, 2.5A, 60Hz |
WiFi Enabled | Yes |
App Control | SmartHQ app |
Voice Control | Alexa, Google Assistant |
Color Finish | Stainless Steel |
Portable | Yes |
Warranty | 1 Year Limited (parts & labor) |
The GE Profile Opal XPIO13SCSS operates on standard household power without requiring dedicated circuits. The 2.5-amp draw is modest enough to share an outlet with other small appliances, though we recommend a dedicated outlet for convenience.
The drawer-style door opens smoothly for ice access and cleaning. The freestanding design means no built-in installation headaches, though you’ll want to position it away from heat sources for optimal performance.
Energy Star certification isn’t listed, which is common for ice makers. The continuous operation needed to maintain ice production draws steady power. Scheduling via the app can reduce runtime during periods when ice isn’t needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the GE Opal require plumbing or a water line?
No plumbing is needed. Fill the built-in reservoir manually when it runs low, or attach the included side tank for extended operation. This makes the GE Profile Opal portable and flexible for placement anywhere you have counter space and a standard outlet.
How long does it take to make the first batch of ice?
The first batch arrives in 10 minutes after startup. Production continues automatically from there, generating roughly 1.6 pounds per hour up to the 38-pound daily capacity. The bin holds 3 pounds at a time before triggering a full alert.
What’s the difference between nugget ice and regular ice cubes?
Nugget ice is soft and chewable, with an aerated texture like Sonic Drive-In serves. It absorbs drink flavors better than hard cubes and is easier on teeth and blenders. The trade-off is faster melting due to the porous structure, which most fans accept for the superior texture and flavor absorption.
Is the side tank worth it?
Absolutely. The side tank triples the time between manual refills, turning a machine that might need attention every few hours into one that can run most of the day unattended. It’s included with this model and detaches when you want to reclaim counter space.
How loud is the GE Opal during operation?
It produces normal ice maker sounds during production, including compressor noise and water cycling. It’s not silent but isn’t disruptive in most kitchens. The scheduling feature in the SmartHQ app lets you avoid production during sleep or quiet hours if noise is a concern.
Does it work with Alexa and Google Assistant?
Yes, full voice control works through both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. You’ll need to connect the ice maker to WiFi and set up the SmartHQ app first. Voice commands can start or stop production, check status, and access scheduling features.
How often do I need to clean it?
Use the built-in sanitize function every few weeks to prevent bacteria and mold growth. Run the descale cycle monthly or as needed based on water hardness. These automated functions handle the heavy maintenance work. Wipe the exterior and clean the bin manually as part of regular kitchen maintenance.
What’s the warranty coverage?
GE Profile provides a 1-year limited warranty covering parts and labor. This is standard for countertop ice makers and reflects reasonable confidence in the product’s reliability. The 5,235 customer reviews at 4.5 stars and good longevity reports suggest most units perform well beyond the warranty period.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the GE Opal on Black Friday?
The $367 GE Opal Black Friday price represents genuine value. At 39% off and $232 in savings, you’re getting premium nugget ice technology and smart features at near-entry-level pricing.
The 5,235 customer reviews averaging 4.5 stars validate this as a reliable purchase backed by real-world performance across thousands of kitchens. The good longevity reports suggest you’ll get years of service, not just months before failure.
Buy this if you want nugget ice at home and value the convenience of app control, voice integration, and the included side tank. The combination of features at this price rarely aligns outside major sales events.
Skip it if basic ice cubes meet your needs or if you’re unwilling to maintain the regular cleaning schedule. The premium features justify the price only if you’ll actually use them.
Check current Black Friday availability for the GE Profile Opal XPIO13SCSS at Masters Wholesale. Stock levels shift during sales, and this price won’t last past the event.
