Frigidaire Bullet Ice Maker Roundup: Which Countertop Model Fits Your Family?
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Frigidaire has long maintained a commanding presence in countertop refrigeration, especially among busy households that require steady, reliable ice production without the expense of a plumbed refrigerator installation. Within the portable freezing category, the brand is best recognized for durable compressor-driven mechanisms that rapidly freeze water around chilled metal prongs, yielding hollow bullet-shaped cylinders tailored for rapid drink chilling. Families consistently gravitate toward these machines because they operate independently of a dedicated water line, fit neatly on standard kitchen counters, and deliver fresh cubes in mere minutes.
While every machine in this lineup achieves a standard production benchmark of twenty-six pounds of ice every twenty-four hours, they diverge significantly in their batch cycle duration, water reservoir capacity, interior storage volume, electrical wattage draw, and exterior housing finishes.
Product rundown
6 models are covered below. Pick a row to jump straight to it.
| No. | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 01 |
Frigidaire Countertop PortableBest for High-Wattage Fast Freezing |
Price not listed |
| 02 |
Frigidaire Compact Countertop Ice MakerBest for Energy-Conscious Kitchens |
Price not listed |
| 03 |
FRIGIDAIRE Retro Compact Ice Maker MachineBest for Rapid Cycle Times |
Price not listed |
| 04 |
Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day PortableBest for Classic Stainless Utility |
Price not listed |
| 05 |
Frigidaire Counter top PortableBest for Vibrant Countertop Accents |
Price not listed |
| 06 |
FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice MakerBest for Melt-Water Recycling |
Price not listed |
Frigidaire Bullet Ice Makers Compared
| Model | Cycle Duration | Basket Storage | Water Reservoir | Rated Wattage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frigidaire Countertop Portable (EFIC120-BLKSS-SC) | 7 minutes (9 cubes) | 1.5 lbs | 2.1 qt | 1000 watts |
| Frigidaire Compact Countertop Ice Maker (EFIC121/EFIC123) | Less than 9 minutes | 1.7 lbs | 1.7 liters | 105 watts |
| FRIGIDAIRE Retro Compact Ice Maker Machine (EFIC512) | Less than 6 minutes | 2.2 lbs | Reservoir below basket | 200 watts |
| Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable (EFIC117-SS) | 7 minutes (9 cubes) | 1.5 lbs | 2.1 qt | Not listed |
| Frigidaire Counter top Portable (EFIC117-SSRED-COM) | 7 minutes (9 cubes) | 1.5 lbs | 2.1 qt | Not listed |
| FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice Maker | 5 to 6 minutes (9 cubes) | Not listed | Recycles melt water | 105 watts |
Frigidaire Countertop PortableBest for High-Wattage Fast Freezing

Price not listed
8.8/10Our scoreVery positive
Brand Frigidaire ASIN B07J1YVSNQ
Best for: Large households wanting black stainless and fast freezing
Pros
- Rapid 7-minute cycle time
- Generous 2.1-quart reservoir
- Convenient bottom drain plug
- Sleek black stainless finish
Cons
- Heavier 1000-watt power draw
- Modest 1.5-pound basket
The Frigidaire Countertop Portable stands out as a heavy-duty option in the lineup, encased in an attractive black stainless steel exterior that coordinates well with contemporary kitchen fixtures. Engineered under model name EFIC120-BLKSS-SC, this machine leverages a robust 1000-watt power system to freeze water quickly, dropping nine rounded bullet cubes into the holding tray every seven minutes. Families who routinely host large weekend dinners or manage active sports schedules will appreciate how rapidly it gets up to operating speed after you plug it in.
Daily upkeep remains straightforward thanks to a 2.1-quart water reservoir seated beneath the ice basket, reducing the frequency of manual refills during extended freezing runs. The front-facing digital LED control panel enables users to select between two individual cube sizes and provides direct system alerts, while a wide transparent viewing window lets you check storage levels without opening the lid. When it is time to clean the basin or store the appliance, a integrated bottom drain plug allows for mess-free emptying, and the included ice scoop simplifies hygienic serving from the 1.5-pound holding basket.
This particular unit suits large families seeking a bold black stainless finish and the high-output performance of a high-wattage freezing system. For households that prioritize energy efficiency above all else, however, the heavy 1000-watt electrical draw might lead you to favor the lower-wattage EFIC121 or EFIC128 models instead.
Frigidaire Compact Countertop Ice MakerBest for Energy-Conscious Kitchens

Price not listed
8.6/10Our scoreMostly positive
Brand Frigidaire ASIN B07VMBP1N5
Best for: Energy-conscious kitchens needing low wattage draw
Pros
- Frugal 105-watt power rating
- Expanded 1.7-pound basket
- Full bin and empty alerts
- One-year parts and labor warranty
Cons
- Longer 9-minute cycle duration
- Slightly smaller 1.7-liter reservoir
For homes keeping a close eye on their daily energy consumption, the Frigidaire Compact Countertop Ice Maker offers an economical alternative. Listed under model numbers EFIC121 and EFIC123, this appliance features a durable polypropylene housing sheathed in silver stainless steel, running on a modest rated power draw of just 105 watts at 60Hz. Despite its lower electrical requirement, it still reliably achieves the family standard of twenty-six pounds of bullet-shaped ice over a full twenty-four-hour cycle.
Each batch takes less than nine minutes to form, dropping fresh ice directly into an elevated storage bin that holds up to 1.7 pounds at a time. The underlying water reservoir holds 1.7 liters, keeping the overall external profile compact enough to sit beneath standard overhead cabinetry. The user-friendly digital interface eliminates guesswork by illuminating specific warning icons whenever the collection basket reaches capacity or the reservoir runs completely dry. Frigidaire backs the unit with a one-year parts and labor warranty, and includes both a dedicated removable basket and serving scoop in the box.
This model is ideal for smaller families or apartment dwellers who value minimal power consumption and slightly expanded basket storage over rapid sprint speeds. If your family requires the absolute fastest cycling time or a larger two-quart fluid reservoir, the EFIC512 or EFIC117 will serve your routine more effectively.
FRIGIDAIRE Retro Compact Ice Maker MachineBest for Rapid Cycle Times

Buyer favouriteScored 9.4/10 or higher
Price not listed
9.6/10Our scoreOverwhelmingly positive
Brand Frigidaire ASIN B0F68PSSCZ
Best for: Busy families wanting maximum speed and storage
Pros
- Fast sub-6-minute cycle time
- Industry-leading 2.2-pound bucket
- Distinctive retro white finish
- Two selectable cube sizes
Cons
- Does not maintain frozen storage
- No metallic finish option
The FRIGIDAIRE Retro Compact Ice Maker Machine, recognized by model designation EFIC512, introduces a distinctive white vintage aesthetic alongside the fastest freezing cycles in the brand lineup. Drawing 200 watts on a standard 115-volt line, this rapid machine produces a complete batch of ice in less than six minutes. The product listing describes its output as clear, perfectly squared ice cubes within a bullet-ice chassis, giving families an adaptable freezing solution that rapidly replenishes beverage glasses during warm summer afternoons.
Storage capacity is another clear high point for this unit, boasting an expansive 2.2-pound interior ice bucket, which is the largest holding capacity among all six evaluated models. The electronic control interface lets you toggle between two selectable cube sizes and activates flashing indicator lights when ice drops into the bucket, when the bin is full, or when the water level drops too low. Because this unit is purpose-built to freeze ice rather than maintain freezing temperatures, the manufacturer emphasizes that ice does not stay permanently frozen in the basket and should be transferred to a primary freezer if not served immediately.
Families with high immediate ice turnover and an eye for vintage countertop design will get tremendous utility from this appliance. Those who insist on brushed stainless steel finishes or who prefer an integrated bottom drain plug may find the EFIC120 or EFIC117 better aligned with their kitchen aesthetic.
Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day PortableBest for Classic Stainless Utility

Price not listed
8.6/10Our scoreMostly positive
Brand Frigidaire ASIN B07JBJWP2W
Best for: Homeowners preferring classic silver stainless style
Pros
- Reliable 7-minute cycle
- Generous 2.1-quart water capacity
- Integrated cleaning drain plug
- Timeless stainless steel look
Cons
- Wattage not listed in data
- Requires manual freezer transfer
Built for shoppers who appreciate traditional brushed metal styling, the Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable delivers consistent performance under model identifier EFIC117-SS. Manufactured under the Curtis brand partnership, this machine pairs a timeless silver stainless steel exterior with a dependable internal compressor. It churns out nine bullet-shaped cubes every seven minutes, offering a dual-size selector to tailor your ice to small water bottles or wide cocktail glasses.
Like its black counterpart, this model incorporates a deep 2.1-quart water tank capacity, enabling several hours of uninterrupted ice production before you need to carry a pitcher over for a refill. The digital LED panel ensures total control over ice sizes and power states, while the clear top window gives you an instant view of the 1.5-pound holding basket. A bottom-mounted drain plug eliminates the awkward tilting and spilling typically associated with cleaning out countertop reservoirs at the end of the week, and Frigidaire provides a one-year warranty alongside the included ice scoop.
This machine is an exceptional match for households that want classic silver metallic decor, dependable cycle speeds, and generous tank volume. However, families seeking automated water-recycling capabilities will find that specialized feature exclusive to the EFIC128 model.
Frigidaire Counter top PortableBest for Vibrant Countertop Accents
Best for: Entertainers wanting a bold red kitchen accent
Pros
- Striking red stainless finish
- Steady 7-minute batch pace
- Spacious 2.1-quart water tank
- Simple digital LED controls
Cons
- Wattage not listed in data
- Limited to 1.5-pound storage
Homeowners seeking to break away from standard black and silver appliances will gravitate toward the Frigidaire Counter top Portable, finished in an eye-catching red stainless steel. Carrying model number EFIC117-SSRED-COM, this model shares the mechanical durability of the silver EFIC117 series while injecting vibrant personality into kitchens, family game rooms, or wet bars. Though its retail listing title references nugget freezing, the manufacturer specifications and operational bullet points confirm that it produces nine classic bullet-shaped ice cubes every seven minutes.
The interior architecture centers on convenience, pairing a generous 2.1-quart water reservoir with a 1.5-pound capacity removable storage tray. Operating the machine requires nothing more than adding tap or filtered water, picking your desired cube size via the digital LED buttons, and letting the compressor do the heavy lifting. The transparent lid allows parents and kids alike to monitor cube collection progress without releasing internal ambient cooling, and the standard drain plug ensures prompt drainage during routine cleaning cycles.
This red stainless edition is ideal for design-conscious homeowners who want their countertop appliances to serve as visual statement pieces without sacrificing tank capacity. If your kitchen layout demands a neutral palette, the black EFIC120 or silver EFIC121 will integrate far more seamlessly.
FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice MakerBest for Melt-Water Recycling

Buyer favouriteScored 9.4/10 or higher
Price not listed
9.6/10Our scoreOverwhelmingly positive
Brand Frigidaire ASIN B0CXZR6HQB
Best for: Shoppers seeking automated melt-water recycling
Pros
- Automatic melt-water recycling
- Fast 5 to 6 minute batches
- Efficient 105-watt operation
- Compact 13-inch footprint
Cons
- Basket capacity not listed
- Ice melts if left inside
The FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice Maker brings modern convenience to the fore with an intelligent closed-loop water management system. Operating on 105 watts with eco-conscious R600a refrigerant, this compact black appliance measures 13 inches deep, 11 inches wide, and 12.5 inches high. Its standout mechanical feature is automatic melt-water recycling: whenever unused ice in the holding basket slowly melts, the internal drainage channels route that chilled water back down into the reservoir to generate fresh cubes, preventing waste and extending unattended operation.
In terms of throughput, the EFIC128 drops nine cubes every five to six minutes, yielding up to twenty-six pounds across twenty-four hours. Simple LED controls let users select cube dimensions, while automated sensors trigger alerts when the basket reaches full capacity or when the base reservoir requires additional fresh water. An integrated side air outlet maintains internal airflow to sustain ongoing freezing cycles during busy family parties, and an included scoop and instruction manual round out the package.
Families who frequently forget to empty their ice basket before the cubes begin to soften will benefit immensely from this model’s smart recycling engineering. However, because the listing does not specify exact basket capacity, families requiring a confirmed large-format bucket of over two pounds may prefer the clearly rated EFIC512.
How to Choose the Right Frigidaire Bullet Ice Maker
Selecting the best model for your kitchen comes down to matching specific appliance specifications with your family’s daily habits, available counter area, and maintenance expectations. When conducting a comprehensive frigidaire bullet ice maker countertop evaluation, the first factor to examine is freezing speed versus holding volume. If your home goes through massive amounts of ice in short bursts, models like the EFIC512 and EFIC128 lead the group by producing fresh batches in five to six minutes, whereas the EFIC121 trades speed for low energy draw with nine-minute cycles.
Basket and reservoir capacities represent the second critical benchmark. Models featuring a 2.1-quart water reservoir, such as the EFIC120 and both EFIC117 variants, minimize trips to the sink, making them excellent choices for busy hosting environments. Conversely, if your goal is to store more ice before transferring it to the freezer, the EFIC512 stands unrivaled with its 2.2-pound storage bucket, easily outperforming the 1.5-pound limits of the EFIC120 and EFIC117. Families looking into broader counter equipment can also compare these operational trade-offs against our hamilton beach ice maker breakdown to gauge alternative footprint layouts.
Energy consumption and upkeep routines should guide your final decision. The EFIC121 and EFIC128 both operate at a frugal 105 watts, making them easy on household utility circuits compared to the powerful 1000-watt EFIC120. In terms of maintenance, units with bottom drain plugs streamline sanitation, while the EFIC128 offers the unique advantage of recycling melted ice back into fresh cubes. For households exploring wider freezing options across different manufacturers, our review of silonn ice makers countertop models highlights how other brands handle similar drainage and recycling systems.
FAQ
Do Frigidaire bullet ice makers keep ice frozen indefinitely?
No, these portable countertop units are designed strictly for ice production rather than long-term frozen storage. The holding baskets are insulated to slow ambient warming, but they lack active refrigeration coils. As noted explicitly in the EFIC512 and EFIC128 documentation, ice will slowly melt over time if left in the machine and should be transferred to your kitchen freezer for extended storage.
What happens to ice that melts inside the ice basket?
In standard units like the EFIC120, EFIC121, and EFIC117, melt-water drains through the perforated basket back into the base reservoir beneath it. On advanced designs like the EFIC128, the machine actively recycles that runoff water to immediately freeze fresh replacement batches, preventing water stagnation and maximizing ice availability.
How do you clean and empty these countertop ice makers?
Most models in this collection, including the EFIC120 and both EFIC117 variations, feature a manual drain plug located on the lower casing. To empty the unit, you position the machine near the edge of your sink, remove the rubber plug, and allow residual water to drain completely before wiping down the interior reservoir with a mild cleaning solution.
What is the benefit of hollow bullet-shaped ice?
Bullet ice forms around submerged chilling rods, creating a rounded cylinder with a hollow interior cavity. This hollow center significantly increases the total surface area of each cube, enabling it to chill warm beverages much faster than solid square blocks while blending smoothly into morning fruit smoothies without jamming blender blades.
How much clearance do these machines need on a countertop?
Countertop ice makers require sufficient perimeter ventilation to expel warm air generated by their internal compressors. As highlighted on models like the EFIC128, which features dedicated side air outlets, leaving several inches of clear space around the vents ensures uninterrupted heat exchange and keeps batch cycle speeds running at their peak efficiency.
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