Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker vs Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker: Spec Comparison
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This frigidaire countertop portable vs efic189 silver compact ice maker comparison highlights two machines with identical daily output and footprint. Both make 26 lbs. of ice daily and share the same width, height, and length. The main difference lies in the ice shape and storage capacity. One produces bullet ice with 1.5 lbs. storage, while the other yields squared cubes with 2.2 lbs. storage. You also get different control interfaces and batch times.
Key differences
| Aspect | Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker | Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Ice Type | Bullet | Squared ice cubes |
| Storage Capacity | 1.5 lbs. | 2.2 lbs. |
| Batch Time | 7 minutes | Less than 6 minutes |
| Water Supply | 2.1 qt. water tank | Reservoir |
| Drain Type | Drain plug | Not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker if
- You prefer bullet-shaped ice for cocktails.
- You want a visible drain plug for easy cleaning.
- You like the black stainless steel finish.
Choose Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker if
- You need a larger ice storage basket.
- You want faster batch times.
- You prefer squared ice cubes.
Verdict: Choose the Portable Bullet Ice Maker if you prioritize bullet ice and a drain plug. Select the EFIC189 Silver Compact Ice Maker if you need more storage space and faster production. Both models fit the same countertop space.
Bullet vs Squared Ice Comparison
ice shape
The Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker produces bullet-shaped ice cubes. This shape is often preferred for cocktails and soft drinks because it fits well in standard glassware and cools beverages quickly. The Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker creates squared ice cubes instead. Squared cubes are denser and melt slower, making them ideal for long drinks or keeping water chilled without diluting it too fast. Your choice depends on whether you prefer the classic bullet look or the modern, clear square appearance for your beverages.
production speed
Speed matters when you need ice for a gathering. The Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker churns out nine cubes every seven minutes. This steady pace ensures a consistent supply. The Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker is slightly faster, producing squared ice cubes in less than six minutes. That one-minute difference adds up if you are making multiple batches in a row. If you need ice quickly during a party, the Compact model gets you there a bit sooner. Both are fast enough for most home uses.
storage capacity
Ice storage determines how often you must empty the basket. The Portable Bullet model holds up to 1.5 lbs. of ice at a time. This is sufficient for small households or occasional use. The Compact Ice Maker offers a larger storage capacity, holding up to 2.2 lbs. of ice. This extra space means you can make ice less frequently, which is convenient if you have guests over or use ice daily. The larger bin on the Compact model provides more buffer against running out during extended use.
water tank
How you fill the machine affects convenience. The Portable Bullet Ice Maker features a 2.1 qt. water tank. This clear capacity allows you to see how much water is left. It also includes a drain plug for easy emptying and cleaning, which helps maintain hygiene. The Compact Ice Maker lists a reservoir beneath the ice basket but does not specify a gallon or quart capacity in the provided data. It does mention an electronic panel that indicates when the water is empty. Without specific volume data, the Bullet model offers clearer tank specifications.
design and control
Both machines feature digital LED control panels for easy adjustment. The Portable Bullet Ice Maker includes a transparent window to monitor ice levels and ice production. It also comes with an included ice scoop for easy retrieval. The Compact Ice Maker also has a large transparent window and a digital panel that flashes when the bin is full or water is low. It provides an ice bucket for serving. Both designs are sleek and fit seamlessly into kitchens or offices. The Portable model explicitly mentions an included scoop, while the Compact lists a bucket.
Which Frigidaire Ice Maker Fits You
You want faster ice for parties
The Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker produces squared ice in less than 6 minutes. This is quicker than the bullet model’s 7-minute cycle. You get ice faster when hosting guests. The larger 2.2 lbs storage capacity also holds more ice than the bullet version’s 1.5 lbs bin. This helps you stay stocked during busy events.
You prefer traditional bullet ice shapes
The Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker makes bullet-shaped ice cubes. This shape fits well in standard glasses and cools drinks quickly. You can choose between two ice sizes on the digital LED panel. The transparent window lets you monitor production easily. This model is ideal if you like the classic texture of bullet ice.
You need easy cleaning and drainage
The Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker includes a drain plug. This feature allows you to empty the water tank quickly for cleaning. The 2.1 qt water tank capacity reduces how often you need to refill it. The included ice scoop adds convenience. This model simplifies maintenance compared to models without a dedicated drain plug.
The products compared
Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker
Best for: small spaces and quick ice needs
- Daily Ice Production
- Up to 26 lbs.
- Storage Capacity
- 1.5 lbs.
- Ice Type
- Bullet
- Form Factor
- Countertop
- Batch Time
- 7 minutes
- Water Supply
- 2.1 qt. water tank
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This Frigidaire countertop unit produces up to 26 pounds of bullet ice daily. It makes a batch every 7 minutes and holds 1.5 pounds in storage. The 2.1-quart tank reduces refill frequency. You get two ice sizes and a drain plug for easy cleaning. It suits small kitchens or offices where space is tight but ice demand is steady.
Pros
- Produces 26 lbs of ice per day
- Makes ice in 7-minute batches
- Includes a drain plug for easy cleaning
- Transparent window shows ice levels
- Holds 1.5 lbs of storage ice
Cons
- Small 1.5 lbs internal storage capacity
- Manual water tank requires refilling
- Bullet ice only, no cube options
Good fit if
- You need fast ice for small gatherings
- You have limited counter space
- You prefer bullet-shaped ice
Skip if
- You need large batch storage
- You want continuous water line hookup
- You prefer square ice cubes
Verdict: Frigidaire Bullet Ice Maker is a compact solution for users who need quick ice production in small spaces. It fits well in dorms or offices where space is limited and bullet ice is acceptable.
Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker
Best for: Manual filling users who want squared ice
- Daily Ice Production
- 26 lb per Day
- Storage Capacity
- up to 2.2 Lbs.
- Ice Type
- squared ice cubes
- Batch Time
- less than 6 minutes
- Water Supply
- reservoir
- Daily Capacity
- 26 lbs/Day
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The Frigidaire EFIC189 is a silver countertop ice maker producing 26 pounds of squared ice daily. It fills a 2.2-pound storage bin in under 6 minutes. The unit offers two ice sizes and features a transparent window to monitor production. Its digital panel signals when the water is empty or the bin is full. This model suits users who want clear, square ice without a permanent water line.
Pros
- Produces 26 pounds of ice per day
- Makes ice in less than 6 minutes
- Offers two ice cube sizes
- Transparent window shows ice production
- Digital panel indicates full bin or empty water
Cons
- Uses a manual reservoir instead of a direct water line
- Storage capacity is limited to 2.2 pounds
- No app or remote control functionality listed
Good fit if
- You need 26 pounds of ice daily for gatherings
- You prefer squared ice cubes over bullet shapes
- You want a portable unit with a manual water tank
Skip if
- You require a direct water line connection
- You need more than 2.2 pounds of storage capacity
- You want bullet-shaped ice instead of squared cubes
Verdict: Frigidaire EFIC189 Silver Compact Ice Maker delivers rapid, high-volume squared ice for those who prefer manual filling. It fits kitchens where square ice is preferred and a water line is not available.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker | Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Ice Production | Up to 26 lbs. | 26 lb per Day |
| Storage Capacity | 1.5 lbs. | up to 2.2 Lbs. |
| Ice Type | Bullet | squared ice cubes |
| Form Factor | Countertop | not stated |
| Batch Time | 7 minutes | less than 6 minutes |
| Water Supply | 2.1 qt. water tank | reservoir |
| Drain Type | Drain plug | not stated |
| Daily Capacity | 26 lbs/Day | 26 lbs/Day |
| Color | BLACK STAINLESS | Silver |
| Dimensions | 15 × 11 × 14.5 inches | 15 × 11 × 14.5 inches |
| Size | Medium | not stated |
| Model | EFIC120-BLKSS-SC | EFIC189-Silver |
Frequently asked questions
Do both Frigidaire ice makers have the same dimensions?
Yes. Both the Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker and the Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker share identical external measurements. Each unit measures 11 inches in width, 14.5 inches in height, and 15 inches in length. This consistent footprint allows you to swap models without adjusting your counter space or cabinet dimensions.
Which model produces bullet ice?
The Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker produces bullet-shaped ice. This specific model is designed to create the rounded cubes often preferred for cocktails. The other unit in this comparison, the Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker, produces squared ice instead, offering a different texture for your beverages.
Can I use the bullet ice maker in a small dorm room?
Yes. The Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker is described as a compact solution ideal for small spaces like dorms or offices. Its portable form factor and manageable size make it suitable for environments where space is limited but quick ice production is still required for your daily needs.
What is the daily ice production for these units?
Both machines produce 26 pounds of ice per day. This shared capacity ensures you get the same volume of ice regardless of which shape you prefer. Whether you choose the portable bullet model or the compact squared model, you will have a consistent supply of ice for your kitchen or office.
Which Frigidaire ice maker is silver?
The Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker comes in a silver finish. Its model number is EFIC189-Silver. In contrast, the Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker features a black stainless steel color. You can choose the silver unit if it better matches your existing kitchen appliance aesthetic.
Is one of these models better for manual filling?
The Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker is noted as fitting users who prefer manual filling. It delivers rapid, high-volume squared ice for those who do not have a water line connection. This makes it a practical choice for kitchens where you are willing to add water to the reservoir manually.