Frigidaire Countertop Bullet Ice Maker Lineup: Family-Focused Comparison
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Frigidaire has long been a staple name in household refrigeration, known for producing dependable cooling appliances that balance utilitarian durability with everyday accessibility. In the portable ice maker category, the brand focuses primarily on compact bullet ice machines designed to keep kitchen counters, bar carts, home offices, and recreational vehicles constantly supplied with fresh ice. These self-contained units eliminate the need for dedicated water line plumbing, operating instead through internal reservoirs and evaporative cooling rods that freeze water into smooth, rounded bullet cylinders. For active families who frequently host gatherings, pack sports coolers, or simply consume high volumes of cold beverages throughout the week, a dedicated countertop appliance removes the bottleneck of slow refrigerator ice dispensers and messy manual freezer trays.
While each model in this lineup delivers a uniform maximum capacity of 26 pounds of ice per day, the units distinguish themselves through differing cycle speeds ranging from five to nine minutes, water reservoir volumes between 1.7 liters and 2.3 quarts, power ratings, and specialized cabinet finishes. Examining this comprehensive frigidaire bullet ice maker guide will clarify how internal capacities and operational rhythms vary across the brand catalog.
Product rundown
6 models are covered below. Pick a row to jump straight to it.
| No. | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 01 |
Frigidaire Countertop PortableBest for Modern Kitchen Styling |
Price not listed |
| 02 |
Frigidaire Compact Countertop Ice MakerBest for Optimized Storage |
Price not listed |
| 03 |
FrigidaireBest for Maximum Water Capacity |
Price not listed |
| 04 |
FRIGIDAIRE Compact Countertop Ice Maker MachineBest for Rapid Cycle Speed |
Price not listed |
| 05 |
Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day PortableBest for Traditional Stainless Durability |
Price not listed |
| 06 |
FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice MakerBest for Streamlined Daily Freezing |
Price not listed |
Frigidaire Countertop Bullet Ice Makers Compared

Best for: Busy households needing fewer reservoir refills
Pros
- Generous 2.3-quart water reservoir
- Modern touch LED panel
- Convenient bottom drain plug
- Smooth grey cabinet design
Cons
- Variable cycle time up to 15 minutes
- Basket holds only 1.5 pounds
| Model | Daily Capacity | Cycle Time | Reservoir Volume | Basket Holding Capacity | Wattage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frigidaire Countertop Portable (EFIC120-BLKSS-SC) | 26 pounds | 7 minutes | 2.1 quarts | 1.5 pounds | 1000 watts |
| Frigidaire Compact Countertop Ice Maker (EFIC121/EFIC123) | 26 pounds | Less than 9 minutes | 1.7 liters | 1.7 pounds | 105 watts |
| Frigidaire (EFIC0513GREY) | 26 pounds | 7 to 15 minutes | 2.3 quarts | 1.5 pounds | 105 watts |
| FRIGIDAIRE Compact Countertop Ice Maker Machine (EFIC187) | 26 pounds | 5 to 6 minutes | Not listed | Not listed | 200 watts |
| Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable (EFIC117-SS) | 26 pounds | 7 minutes | 2.1 quarts | 1.5 pounds | Not listed |
| FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice Maker (EFIC128AMZBLACK) | 26 pounds | 5 to 6 minutes | Not listed | Not listed | 105 watts |
Frigidaire Countertop PortableBest for Modern Kitchen Styling

Price not listed
8.8/10Our scoreVery positive
Brand Frigidaire ASIN B07J1YVSNQ
Best for: Kitchens wanting sleek black stainless styling
Pros
- Modern black stainless finish
- Fast seven-minute batch time
- Integrated manual drain plug
- Two selectable bullet sizes
Cons
- Higher 1000-watt power draw
- Basket caps at 1.5 pounds
The Frigidaire Countertop Portable (model EFIC120-BLKSS-SC) is engineered for households seeking a balance of rapid ice output and elevated kitchen aesthetics. Built with an exterior wrapped in black stainless steel, this unit integrates smoothly into contemporary kitchen spaces alongside dark or mixed metallic cabinetry. It produces up to 26 pounds of ice per 24-hour window, yielding nine hollow bullet-shaped pieces every seven minutes. Users can toggle between two selectable cube sizes on the digital LED control panel, tailoring cube density for quick beverage chilling or extended cooling in insulated cups. A broad, transparent viewing window on the lid allows you to monitor production stages without opening the chamber and releasing trapped cold air.
Equipped with a generous 2.1-quart water reservoir located beneath the removable basket, this appliance supports extended production runs with fewer manual refill interruptions. The interior basket holds up to 1.5 pounds of finished ice at once, keeping an immediate supply ready for meal prep or quick glass refills using the included ice scoop. Maintenance is simplified through a manual drain plug positioned on the housing, allowing you to evacuate residual water quickly when swapping fresh batches or preparing the machine for storage. Measuring 15 inches deep, 11 inches wide, and 14.5 inches high, this 1000-watt machine represents a substantial, high-performance presence on the counter.
This model suits homeowners who prioritize dark stainless steel styling and consistent seven-minute output, making it an excellent anchor for home bars and active family kitchens. However, if energy conservation or smaller electrical draw is your primary concern, its 1000-watt rating may prompt you to consider lower-wattage siblings like the 105-watt EFIC121 or EFIC0513.
Frigidaire Compact Countertop Ice MakerBest for Optimized Storage

Price not listed
8.6/10Our scoreMostly positive
Brand Frigidaire ASIN B07VMBP1N5

Best for: Hosts needing ultra-fast ice turnaround times
Pros
- Rapid 5 to 6-minute cycles
- Built-in melted water recycling
- Compact lightweight 14-pound frame
- Eye-catching blue cabinet finish
Cons
- Water reservoir volume not listed
- Basket holding capacity not listed
Best for: Users prioritizing larger basket holding capacity
Pros
- Deep 1.7-pound storage basket
- Low 105-watt power consumption
- Clear low-water alert system
- Durable stainless steel housing
Cons
- Longer nine-minute cycle
- Slightly smaller 1.7-liter reservoir
The Frigidaire Compact Countertop Ice Maker (model EFIC121/EFIC123) is built with a silver stainless steel exterior and polypropylene housing, designed specifically for efficient counter placement and low power consumption. Drawing a modest rated power of 105 watts at 60Hz, this unit delivers up to 26 pounds of bullet ice per day while keeping overall energy demands minimal. It produces nine bullet-shaped cubes in less than nine minutes per cycle, sending them into an interior basket capable of holding up to 1.7 pounds of ice simultaneously. This slightly enlarged bin capacity gives it an edge in holding volume over models restricted to 1.5 pounds.
Beneath the ice storage tray sits a 1.7-liter water reservoir that circulates water over the internal freezing elements. The digital control panel provides clear, user-friendly notifications, actively alerting users when the ice collection bin has reached maximum capacity or when the water reservoir runs dry and requires replenishment. A see-through viewing window integrated into the top lid provides immediate visibility of the ice creation process. Frigidaire includes a removable basket, an ice scoop, and a one-year parts and labor manufacturer warranty to back the hardware.
This unit is ideal for budget-conscious families, dorm dwellers, and office breakrooms seeking maximum basket storage volume alongside energy-efficient 105-watt operation. It yields to models like the EFIC187 or EFIC128 if you require absolute maximum cycle speed, as its nine-minute freeze cycle is slightly slower than the five-minute speeds available elsewhere in the catalog.
FrigidaireBest for Maximum Water Capacity
The Frigidaire countertop ice maker (model EFIC0513GREY) brings a neutral grey finish and an expanded 2.3-quart water tank to busy countertops. This generous water capacity is the largest specified reservoir in the brand lineup, drastically cutting down the number of trips you make to the sink during busy days. Producing up to 26 pounds of smooth bullet ice every 24 hours, the machine produces nine pieces per batch in cycles spanning 7 to 15 minutes, with the listing highlighting a brisk seven-minute standard run for quick beverage cooling.
Operational control is centered around an intuitive Touch LED control panel that allows smooth switching between two bullet sizes while clearly displaying system statuses. A transparent lid window lets you monitor ice accumulation in the 1.5-pound capacity bin without lifting the cover. Once ice accumulates, the included scoop allows easy serving into glasses or coolers. Maintenance routines are streamlined thanks to an integrated drain plug that simplifies reservoir flushes, while the internal mechanical components run on a standard 120-volt connection with a 105-watt power consumption profile.
This model is exceptionally well-suited for larger families, RV road trips, and apartment dwellers who want fewer manual water refills throughout the day. However, for buyers wanting classic brushed metallic aesthetics or faster five-minute rapid cycles, models such as the stainless EFIC120 or the rapid EFIC187 may be preferable options.
FRIGIDAIRE Compact Countertop Ice Maker MachineBest for Rapid Cycle Speed
The FRIGIDAIRE Compact Countertop Ice Maker Machine (model EFIC187) stands out from traditional metallic kitchen appliances with its vibrant blue exterior and accelerated cycle performance. This portable unit trims freezing intervals down to just five to six minutes per batch, turning out nine bullet cubes per cycle to hit the standard 26-pound daily threshold. Weighing only 14 pounds and measuring 13 inches deep, 11 inches wide, and 12.5 inches high, its compact footprint fits easily beneath lower wall cabinets or on outdoor patio serving tables.
A notable technical feature of this machine is its closed-loop water recycling capability. When unused ice cubes eventually melt inside the unchilled basket, the runoff water drains back into the internal reservoir, where the system re-freezes it into fresh ice rather than letting it sit stagnant. The unit features an LED control panel to select ice cube size and track ice levels, paired with proactive indicator lights that signal when the ice basket is full or when additional water is needed. An integrated air outlet maintains heat dissipation during extended use, and a drain port assists with rapid post-gathering cleanup.
This colorful model is tailor-made for party hosts, family barbecues, and busy weekend gatherings where five-minute ice turnaround is crucial. While its listed specs omit the exact reservoir capacity and basket weight limit, its rapid cycle speed makes it an attractive choice over slower seven-to-nine-minute alternatives.
Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day PortableBest for Traditional Stainless Durability
Best for: Classic kitchens favoring traditional stainless finishes
Pros
- Timeless stainless steel exterior
- Quick seven-minute production cycle
- Generous 2.1-quart water capacity
- Simple digital LED interface
Cons
- Wattage specification not listed
- Basket capped at 1.5 pounds
The Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable (model EFIC117-SS / EFIC120) delivers classic stainless steel durability engineered for heavy daily rotation in active family kitchens. Producing up to 26 pounds of ice per day, it churns out nine bullet-shaped cubes every seven minutes. Like its black stainless counterpart, it features selectable small and large ice settings, allowing you to match cube size to highball glasses, water bottles, or blending appliances for homemade smoothies.
The machine houses a 2.1-quart water reservoir that ensures sustained ice production without constant attention. The interior basket accommodates up to 1.5 pounds of freshly formed cubes, while the clear top viewing window provides full visibility into the freezing tray. A digital LED control panel keeps operation straightforward, and a built-in drain plug allows simple water drainage during routine cleaning cycles. The product includes an ice scoop and is supported by a one-year manufacturer warranty.
This unit is best suited for homeowners looking for a traditional silver stainless steel aesthetic that matches standard kitchen appliances. It shares identical internal specs with the EFIC120-BLKSS-SC, giving way only if you prefer black stainless styling, an expanded 2.3-quart tank like the EFIC0513, or the faster five-minute batch speed of the EFIC187.
FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice MakerBest for Streamlined Daily Freezing

Buyer favouriteScored 9.4/10 or higher
Price not listed
9.6/10Our scoreOverwhelmingly positive
Brand Frigidaire ASIN B0CXZR6HQB
Best for: Homes wanting rapid production with low energy
Pros
- Fast 5 to 6-minute cycles
- Efficient 105-watt operational draw
- Eco-friendly R600a refrigerant
- Melted water recycling system
Cons
- Not insulated for long-term ice storage
- Reservoir capacity not listed
The FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice Maker (model EFIC128AMZBLACK) pairs a sleek, low-profile black cabinet with rapid cooling efficiency. Operating on an energy-conscious 105-watt power rating with eco-friendly R600a refrigerant, this 120-volt unit produces nine bullet ice cubes in swift five to six-minute cycles. Like the EFIC187, it measures a compact 13 inches deep, 11 inches wide, and 12.5 inches high, allowing it to tuck neatly under kitchen cabinets or sit unobtrusively on an office sideboard.
The EFIC128AMZBLK features an automated water recycling mechanism that captures meltwater from the collection basket and routes it back into the production cycle, ensuring you always have a fresh batch underway without manual intervention. The unit incorporates an LED control panel for cube sizing, a large transparent lid window, and automated alert indicators for full ice baskets and low water levels. The product listing clearly emphasizes that this countertop ice maker is engineered strictly for ice production rather than long-term storage; because the interior basket is insulated but unchilled, users are advised to transfer completed batches directly to a deep freezer to prevent melting.
This machine is an exceptional match for families seeking rapid five-minute ice generation, a stealthy black cabinet design, and modest 105-watt energy consumption. It relinquishes the spotlight to models like the EFIC121 if you require a verified 1.7-pound storage basket, or to the EFIC0513 if an expansive 2.3-quart water reservoir is your top priority.
How to Choose the Right Frigidaire Countertop Bullet Ice Maker
Selecting the ideal model from the Frigidaire countertop ice maker lineup requires balancing cycle speed, reservoir volume, physical dimensions, and aesthetic finishes against your family’s daily ice consumption habits. While every unit listed delivers a daily production ceiling of 26 pounds, how quickly that ice arrives in the basket differs across the board. If your family hosts frequent social events, weekend barbecues, or sports gatherings, machines with rapid five to six-minute cycle times—specifically the blue EFIC187 and black EFIC128AMZBLK—deliver ice fast enough to replenish depleted drink glasses with minimal waiting.
Water reservoir capacity determines how much hands-on maintenance your appliance demands throughout the day. For households where the ice maker runs continuously from morning to evening, the EFIC0513GREY leads the category with its expansive 2.3-quart tank, followed closely by the 2.1-quart reservoirs found on the EFIC120-BLKSS-SC and EFIC117-SS. A larger reservoir minimizes the routine chore of refilling, allowing the machine to cycle through several pounds of ice uninterrupted. Conversely, if counter space is tight, the 1.7-liter capacity on the EFIC121 provides a balanced, compact footprint while yielding an expanded 1.7-pound basket holding capacity.
Kitchen dimensions and appliance aesthetics should also guide your selection. Measuring 13 by 11 by 12.5 inches, compact models like the EFIC187 and EFIC128 occupy minimal counter real estate and slip comfortably under standard upper cabinets. In contrast, full-sized options like the EFIC120-BLKSS-SC stand 14.5 inches high and 15 inches deep, demanding a more dedicated counter zone but rewarding you with a premium black stainless steel exterior. When evaluating kitchen appliance footprints across our site, guides like our hamilton beach ice maker review provide useful context on how different countertop layouts manage counter clearance and airflow.
Finally, pay close attention to power specifications and ongoing maintenance features. The 105-watt ratings on the EFIC121, EFIC0513, and EFIC128 make them exceptionally practical for lower-draw circuits, RV use, and energy-conscious homes, whereas the 1000-watt rating on the EFIC120 indicates heavy-duty compressor draw. Integrated manual drain plugs, present on models like the EFIC120, EFIC0513, and EFIC117-SS, are essential for families who plan to sanitize and drain the water system regularly. Melted ice recycling systems, featured prominently on the EFIC187 and EFIC128, are equally valuable for unattended operation, ensuring that melted ice does not go to waste.
FAQ
How often should you clean a Frigidaire countertop bullet ice maker?
Countertop ice makers should undergo a thorough cleaning every one to two weeks depending on local water hardness and frequency of use. Because these machines recirculate water and maintain a damp internal environment, regular sanitization prevents mineral scale buildup and keeps the ice tasting clean. Models featuring dedicated drain plugs, such as the EFIC120, EFIC0513, and EFIC117-SS, make this process straightforward by allowing you to drain vinegar or descaling solutions directly into a sink without tilting the entire machine awkwardly.
Can you store ice in a Frigidaire countertop ice maker overnight?
No, Frigidaire countertop bullet ice makers are designed solely to produce ice, not to function as permanent freezers. While the storage baskets are insulated to slow ambient heat transfer, the storage bins are unchilled. Over time, ice sitting in the basket will melt. On models equipped with water recycling systems like the EFIC187 and EFIC128, that meltwater drains back into the reservoir to generate fresh cubes. For long-term preservation, transfer finished batches into freezer-safe bags and store them in your primary refrigerator freezer.
Does the Frigidaire ice maker recycle melted ice automatically?
Specific models in the Frigidaire lineup, including the EFIC187 and EFIC128AMZBLK, explicitly incorporate automated meltwater recycling. As ice cubes melt inside the unchilled holding bin, gravity drains the water downward back into the lower reservoir. The machine then draws from this pooled water to freeze subsequent batches, conserving water and preventing the reservoir from drying out prematurely when the appliance is left unattended.
What type of water works best in these bullet ice machines?
Filtered tap water or bottled drinking water works best in Frigidaire bullet ice makers. Using filtered water minimizes calcium and magnesium deposits on the internal freezing rods and sensor pins, extending the lifespan of the machine and reducing descaling intervals. While soft tap water is acceptable, hard tap water will cause noticeable scaling over time that requires more frequent cleaning flushes through the bottom drain port.
How do bullet ice makers compare to nugget ice machines?
Bullet ice makers freeze water rapidly against cylindrical metal evaporator rods, yielding smooth, hollow-centered pieces that are firm on the outside and ideal for fast beverage cooling. In contrast, nugget ice makers compress shaved ice flakes into soft, chewable nuggets. Bullet machines tend to produce ice significantly faster—often within 5 to 9 minutes per cycle—and require simpler mechanical systems. Those interested in soft, chewable ice textures can explore our sencre nugget ice maker breakdown to understand how compaction systems compare to bullet freezing.
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