Kold-Draft vs. Hoshizaki Ice Makers
Kold-Draft and Hoshizaki are two notable ice maker brands built for commercial applications, however, they both approach ice production with a unique goal. Kold-Draft specializes in large, square cubes, featuring a lean lineup of machines designed for upscale beverage operations. Hoshizaki offers a broad catalog of ice shapes and makers built for all-purpose use.
Kold-Draft vs. Hoshizaki: Comparison Snapshot
| Category | Kold-Draft | Hoshizaki |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | Primarily American-made ice makers producing large, clear cubes | Global manufacturer offering a full lineup of ice solutions |
| Typical Price Range | $$ | $$$ |
| Strengths | Exclusive square ice technology | Proven reliability, efficiency, and versatility |
| Best For | Upscale restaurants, cocktail bars, and hotels | High-volume restaurants, cafeterias, or catering |
Hoshizaki and Kold-Draft represent different approaches to making ice, and both have strong followings in foodservice.
About Kold-Draft
Kold-Draft originated in the 1920s but didn't start making automatic ice machines until 1955, when it introduced an innovative upside-down evaporator designed to remove impurities in ice. Today, Kold-Draft has a relatively small line of ice makers, including undercounters and machines with bins that produce slow melting "big cubes" or smaller cocktail cubes. Kold-Draft is a Welbilt brand owned by the Ali Group.
Key strengths:
- Horizontal evaporator improves ice clarity and hardness
- Slow-melting 11/4-in. square cubes ideal for cocktails
- Simple operation and access
About Hoshizaki
Founded in 1947, Hoshizaki is one of the world's leading ice machine brands, offering cubers, flakers, nugget ice machines, and its signature crescent ice, among other shapes. Hoshizaki ice makers have lasting, efficient designs that hold up to high-volume use. The brand manufactures most of its American products in Peachtree City, Ga.
Key strengths:
- Wide selection of ice shapes and machine styles
- Efficient, double-sided evaporators
- Advanced cleaning and service technology
Key Differences Explained
Available Products
While Hoshizaki offers many more models and ice shapes, Kold-Draft sells machines with specialized ice designs. Hoshizaki is built around providing solutions for every sector of the foodservice industry, while Kold-Draft focuses on bar service and upscale cocktail ice creation.
Performance and Reliability
Both brands provide superior performance, manufacturing models designed to last 10 or more years. While, Hoshizaki has a better reputation for reliability, Kold-Draft models typically produce more consistent ice when properly maintained.
Design and Ease of Use
Kold-Draft ice makers offer simple stainless steel designs with minimal controls. Hoshizaki makes models with features like EverCheck™ alert system and CycleSaver™ technology, which notify operators of service needs and enhance efficiency.
Maintenance and Durability
Both brands require regular maintenance—typically recommended every 6 months—to maximize lifespan. Hoshizaki is better known for long-lasting machines, but with the proper care, Kold-Draft ice makers can run for decades.
Price and Value
Hoshizaki products typically cost more than Kold-Draft's equivalent models.
Which Ice Machine Brand Is Best For You?
Kold-Draft is mainly used for operations needing large, square ice for pristine drink presentations. While Hoshizaki also produces big cubes, they aren't perfectly square like Kold-Draft cubes. Hoshizaki ice machines are geared more towards general foodservice needs, providing machines with superior reliability, performance, and efficiency.
| Scenario | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Bulk ice production | Hoshizaki | Large-capacity machines produce more than 2,000 lbs. per day |
| Cocktail bars | Kold-Draft | Slow-melting ice ideal for shaking or serving with mixed beverages |
| Food chilling | Hoshizaki | Cresent or flake ice nestle around products |
| High-end restaurants and hospitality | Kold-Draft | Gourmet ice shapes and simple operation |
Shop Kold-Draft and Hoshizaki at KaTom
Whether you're looking for solid bar ice, ice and water dispensers, or high-volume cubers, KaTom offers Kold-Draft and Hoshizaki ice machines at competitive prices. Find the size and style you need or learn more about each product by browsing our catalog.
