6 Best Alternatives to the Frigidaire EFIC189-Silver Compact Ice Maker (2026)
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The Frigidaire EFIC189-Silver produces 26 lbs of squared ice daily in under six minutes. It offers a straightforward reservoir system and a compact footprint for easy countertop placement. If you need these specific specs, this model fits your needs. However, you might seek frigidaire efic189 silver compact ice maker alternatives for different ice shapes, higher daily output, or a smaller design. Some users prefer bullet ice for faster cooling or nugget ice for soft drinks. Others need a unit that fits tighter spaces or offers self-cleaning functions. We selected these options because their published specifications overlap with the original’s core capabilities. Each alternative maintains the manual reservoir operation and countertop form factor. You can compare batch times, storage capacities, and physical dimensions to find the best match for your kitchen. The list includes models with higher production rates, quieter operation, or different ice types. This guide helps you choose based on hard data rather than marketing claims. Focus on the specs that matter most to your daily routine. Whether you want more volume or a different ice style, these alternatives provide viable options. All listed units are designed for portable use without plumbing connections. You can easily move them between rooms or take them on trips. The selection prioritizes practical performance and clear specifications.
Our top pick: Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker.
How each alternative compares
Silonn 44 lb Clear Ice Maker
The Silonn SLIM31T doubles your daily ice output to 44 lbs, compared to the Frigidaire’s 26 lbs. It produces clear ice cubes rather than the squared variety found in the EFIC189. The unit is slightly narrower at 9.53 inches wide, though it is deeper at 13.8 inches. You get a self-cleaning feature that the Frigidaire lacks. This model suits high-demand settings like home bars where volume and clarity matter more than the specific squared shape. It is a premium choice for those needing faster replenishment during large gatherings.
Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker
This Frigidaire model keeps the same 26 lbs daily capacity and similar dimensions as the EFIC189. The key difference is the ice type. It produces bullet ice instead of squared cubes. This shape melts faster, which is ideal for drinks where quick cooling is priority. The unit is available in black stainless steel, offering a different aesthetic than the silver finish of the original. It retains the easy electronic controls and portable design. You should choose this if you prefer the texture and melt rate of bullet ice over the clarity and structure of squared ice for small gatherings.
SenCre 26.5 lb Countertop Ice Maker
The SenCre ICM1258S matches the 26 lbs daily production but adds a self-cleaning function. It produces bullet ice rather than squared cubes. The footprint is different, with a width of 11.9 inches and a height of only 12.1 inches. This shorter profile makes it easier to fit under standard cabinets compared to the taller Frigidaire. It weighs 15 pounds and includes a handle for portability. The silver finish is similar to the original. This option is best for users who want the same output speed but prefer bullet ice and the convenience of automatic cleaning cycles.
Antarctic Star 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker
The Antarctic Star 58012RIMO offers the same 26 lbs daily capacity but in a much smaller package. It measures 8.66 inches wide and 11.2 inches high, significantly reducing the counter space required. It produces bullet ice instead of squared cubes. The pure white color contrasts with the silver Frigidaire. This compact design is ideal for RVs or small kitchens where space is at a premium. While it sacrifices the squared ice shape and larger storage bin, it delivers quiet operation and fast production in a footprint that fits easily into tight areas without overwhelming the countertop.
Crzoe 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker with Handle
The Crzoe 26 lb Ice Maker matches the daily output of the Frigidaire EFIC189 but produces bullet ice. It features a self-cleaning function, which the original lacks. The dimensions are compact, measuring 8.66 inches wide and 10.4 inches high. It includes a handle for easy transport. The red color option provides a distinct look compared to the silver model. This unit is suitable for users who prioritize speed and quiet operation over large storage capacity. It is a practical choice for small gatherings where bullet ice is preferred and the convenience of self-cleaning is a valuable addition to the standard features.
SenCre 40-lb Nugget Ice Maker
The SenCre 40-lb Nugget Ice Maker shifts the ice type entirely to nugget ice. It produces 40 lbs daily, which is higher than the 26 lbs of the Frigidaire. The unit is narrower at 7.29 inches wide but stands 12.8 inches tall. Nugget ice is soft and chewable, ideal for immediate consumption in drinks. This model suits small households or bars that serve drinks quickly. It gives up the squared ice shape and reservoir system of the original. You should pick this if you value the unique texture of nugget ice and higher daily production over the traditional ice cube format.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker
Best for: fast, manual ice production
- 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
This Frigidaire unit produces 26 pounds of squared ice cubes daily. It fills a batch in under 6 minutes and holds 2.2 pounds in its basket. You choose between two cube sizes. The silver stainless steel design includes a window to watch the ice form. It uses a manual reservoir rather than a direct water line. This model suits you if you want reliable, fast ice without complex installation.
Pros
- Produces 26 pounds of ice per day
- Makes a batch in less than 6 minutes
- Offers two selectable ice cube sizes
- Transparent window shows ice production
Cons
- No automatic water line connection
- Holds only 2.2 pounds of ice at once
- Limited to squared ice shape only
Good fit if
- You need fast ice for parties
- You want simple manual operation
- You prefer squared ice cubes
Skip if
- You require nugget or crescent ice
- You want automatic water refilling
- You need high-volume storage
Verdict: Frigidaire EFIC189 26lb Daily Ice Maker fits you if you want quick, squared ice without plumbing work. It delivers steady daily output for casual use.
Silonn 44 lb Clear Ice Maker
Best for: high-volume clear ice needs
- Daily Ice Production
- 44 lbs
- Ice Type
- crystal-clear ice cubes
- Form Factor
- Countertop
- Batch Time
- 13 minutes
- Water Supply
- bottle filling, manual reservoir
- Daily Capacity
- 44 lbs/Day
The Silonn SLIM31T produces 44 pounds of crystal-clear ice cubes daily, significantly outpacing the 26-pound average of other options in this guide. It takes 13 minutes per batch and offers two water-filling methods: a manual 3.0L reservoir or direct bottle connection. The unit features an auto self-cleaning cycle and a compact footprint of 13.8 by 9.5 by 14.6 inches. This machine suits users who need high-volume, slow-melting ice for parties or home bars.
Pros
- Produces 44 lbs of ice per day
- Makes crystal-clear cubes in 13 minutes
- Supports manual tank or bottle water filling
- Includes a 20-minute auto self-cleaning cycle
Cons
- Higher daily output than the 26-26.5 lb competitors
- Produces standard cubes, not nugget or bullet ice
- Water bottle is not included with the unit
Good fit if
- You need more than 26 pounds of ice daily
- You prefer clear cubes over chewable nuggets
- You want the convenience of bottle water filling
Skip if
- You require nugget or pellet-style ice
- You need a machine smaller than 14 inches tall
- You only need standard bullet ice cubes
Verdict: Silonn SLIM31T 44lb Countertop Ice Maker delivers double the daily output of the Frigidaire EFIC189-Silver alternative, making it the best choice for high-demand settings like home bars or large gatherings where clear ice is preferred.
Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker
Best for: Small gatherings needing fast bullet ice
- 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
This Frigidaire countertop ice maker produces up to 26 pounds of bullet ice daily. It creates a batch every 7 minutes with two size options. The 2.1-quart water tank reduces refill frequency, while the 1.5-pound storage basket holds ice for immediate use. A transparent window lets you monitor levels without opening the unit. It fits well in kitchens, bars, or offices where you need reliable, fast ice production.
Pros
- Produces up to 26 lbs of ice per day
- Makes ice in batches as fast as 7 minutes
- 2.1-quart water tank allows uninterrupted operation
- Transparent window for easy ice level monitoring
- Includes ice scoop and drain plug for cleaning
Cons
- Small 1.5 lb storage capacity limits bulk ice availability
- Manual water tank requires frequent refilling for high demand
- No continuous water line connection option listed
Good fit if
- You want bullet ice for cocktails and cold drinks
- You need a portable unit for small spaces
- You prefer manual control over auto-refill features
Skip if
- You need nugget or cube ice shapes
- You require a continuous water supply connection
- You need to store more than 1.5 lbs of ice at once
Verdict: Frigidaire 26 lb Bullet Ice Maker delivers fast, reliable bullet ice for small gatherings. It suits users who value quick production cycles and easy monitoring over large storage capacity.
SenCre 26.5 lb Countertop Ice Maker
Best for: kitchen countertops needing quick bullet ice
- Daily Ice Production
- 26.5 lbs/24h
- Storage Capacity
- 1.32 lbs
- Ice Type
- bullet
- Form Factor
- countertop
- Batch Time
- 6 minutes
- Water Supply
- 1.5L water tank
This SenCre countertop ice maker yields up to 26.5 pounds of bullet ice daily. It produces 9 cubes every 6 minutes using a 1.5-liter water reservoir. You can select between two cube sizes and use the one-touch self-cleaning cycle for regular maintenance. Its 15-pound silver build fits kitchen counters when you need continuous ice without plumbing.
Pros
- Produces 9 bullet cubes in 6 minutes
- Daily production capacity of 26.5 pounds
- One-touch automated self-cleaning cycle
- Selectable small and large bullet cube sizes
Cons
- Ice basket holds 1.32 pounds at a time
- Daily output of 26.5 pounds is lower than 40-pound alternatives
Good fit if
- You want fast batches of bullet ice ready in 6 minutes.
- You prefer an ice maker with a built-in cleaning cycle.
Skip if
- You need an ice basket that stores more than 1.32 pounds.
- You require daily ice production higher than 26.5 pounds.
Verdict: SenCre 26.5 lb Compact Bullet Ice Maker suits kitchen setups where you want two cube size options and quick batches. Its 1.32-pound storage basket requires routine emptying if you run continuous production cycles.
Antarctic Star 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker
Best for: Quiet, compact bullet ice production
- Daily Ice Production
- 26 lbs/day
- Ice Type
- bullet
- Form Factor
- countertop
- Batch Time
- 6 minutes
- Dimensions
- 10.4 × 8.66 × 11.2 inches
This Antarctic Star unit produces 26 pounds of bullet ice daily in batches ready in six minutes. It measures 8.66 by 10.4 by 11.2 inches and operates below 40 decibels. The design includes a self-cleaning cycle and claims 30 percent energy savings. You should choose this if you need quiet, fast ice for small gatherings or compact spaces like RVs.
Pros
- Produces 26 lbs of bullet ice per day
- Generates ice in just 6 minutes per batch
- Operates at less than 40 dB for quiet use
- Includes a one-touch self-cleaning maintenance cycle
Cons
- Bullet ice only; no nugget or cube options
- No data on water reservoir capacity or auto-fill
- No data on remote control or smart app connectivity
Good fit if
- You need fast ice for small gatherings
- You require a quiet machine for bedrooms
- You have limited counter space in an RV
Skip if
- You prefer chewable nugget ice over bullet ice
- You need high-volume production above 26 lbs
- You want smart app control or remote access
Verdict: Antarctic Star 26lb Countertop Ice Maker delivers quick, quiet bullet ice in a compact footprint, making it a solid fit for RVs and small kitchens where speed and silence matter more than volume.
Crzoe 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker with Handle
Best for: Quick bullet ice for small gatherings
- Daily Ice Production
- 26 lbs
- Storage Capacity
- 1.3 lbs
- Ice Type
- bullet
- Form Factor
- countertop, portable
- Batch Time
- 6-12 minutes
- Daily Capacity
- 26 lbs/Day
View on Amazon: Crzoe 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker with Handle
This Crzoe countertop ice maker produces 26 pounds of bullet ice daily. It prepares a batch in 6 to 12 minutes. The unit holds 1.2 liters of water and 1.3 pounds of ice. It features two ice sizes and a self-cleaning function. The machine operates quietly at under 40 dB. It suits you if you need reliable daily ice for drinks or food preservation.
Pros
- Produces 26 pounds of ice in 24 hours
- Makes ice in 6 to 12 minutes
- Offers two ice cube sizes
- Includes a self-cleaning function
- Operates at less than 40 dB
Cons
- 1.3-pound storage capacity is small
- No water reservoir inlet for continuous use
- Red color option may not fit all decor
Good fit if
- You want fast bullet ice for drinks
- You need quiet operation under 40 dB
- You prefer simple manual controls
Skip if
- You need nugget or pellet ice
- You require a large storage bin
- You want automatic water hookup
Verdict: Crzoe Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lbs/Day delivers quick bullet ice for small gatherings. It fits you if you prioritize speed and quiet operation over large storage capacity.
SenCre 40-lb Nugget Ice Maker
Best for: small households wanting soft chewable ice
- Daily Ice Production
- 40 lbs/day
- Storage Capacity
- 2 lbs
- Ice Type
- nugget
- Form Factor
- countertop
- Batch Time
- 5 minutes
- Water Supply
- 1 L water tank
The SenCre Nugget Ice Maker produces chewable pellet ice in just five minutes. It delivers up to 40 pounds of ice daily from a 1-liter water tank. The unit features a self-cleaning function and a compact footprint of 13 by 12.8 by 7.3 inches. You get a small 2-pound storage basket and a drip tray. This machine suits those who prefer soft ice for drinks and want fast production times.
Pros
- Produces 40 pounds of ice per day
- First batch ready in 5 minutes
- Self-cleaning function for easy maintenance
- Compact countertop dimensions
Cons
- Small 2-pound storage capacity
- No external water line connection
- Limited ice storage for large gatherings
Good fit if
- You want chewable nugget ice for cocktails
- You need ice ready in under 5 minutes
- You have limited counter space
Skip if
- You need to store large quantities of ice
- You require a continuous water supply
- You prefer hard cube ice
Verdict: SenCre 40lb Day Nugget Ice Maker offers fast nugget production for users who prioritize ice quality over volume. It is ideal for small households or bars that serve drinks immediately.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Frigidaire 26 lb Compact Ice Maker | Silonn 44 lb Clear Ice Maker | Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker | SenCre 26.5 lb Countertop Ice Maker | Antarctic Star 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker | Crzoe 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker with Handle | SenCre 40-lb Nugget Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Ice Production | 26 lb per Day | 44 lbs | Up to 26 lbs. | 26.5 lbs/24h | 26 lbs/day | 26 lbs | 40 lbs/day |
| Storage Capacity | up to 2.2 Lbs. | not specified | 1.5 lbs. | 1.32 lbs | not specified | 1.3 lbs | 2 lbs |
| Ice Type | squared ice cubes | crystal-clear ice cubes | Bullet | bullet | bullet | bullet | nugget |
| Form Factor | not specified | Countertop | Countertop | countertop | countertop | countertop, portable | countertop |
| Batch Time | less than 6 minutes | 13 minutes | 7 minutes | 6 minutes | 6 minutes | 6-12 minutes | 5 minutes |
| Water Supply | reservoir | bottle filling, manual reservoir | 2.1 qt. water tank | 1.5L water tank | not specified | not specified | 1 L water tank |
| Drain Type | not specified | not specified | Drain plug | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Daily Capacity | 26 lbs/Day | 44 lbs/Day | 26 lbs/Day | not specified | 26 lbs/Day | 26 lbs/Day | not specified |
| Features | not specified | Self-Cleaning | not specified | Self-Cleaning | not specified | Self-Cleaning | not specified |
| Application | not specified | Home, Office, Bar, Party | not specified | Home, Office, Bar, Kitchen, RV | not specified | Home, Kitchen, Party | not specified |
| Color | Silver | Silver | BLACK STAINLESS | Silver | Pure White | Red | Silver |
| Room | not specified | Home Bar | not specified | Home Bar | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 15 × 11 × 14.5 inches | 13.8 × 9.53 × 14.6 inches | 15 × 11 × 14.5 inches | 8.84 × 11.9 × 12.1 inches | 10.4 × 8.66 × 11.2 inches | 11 × 8.66 × 10.4 inches | 13 × 7.29 × 12.8 inches |
| Weight | not specified | not specified | not specified | 15 pounds | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Model | EFIC189-Silver | SLIM31T | EFIC120-BLKSS-SC | ICM1258S | 58012RIMO | not specified | not specified |
| Size | not specified | Ice Cube Maker | Medium | 26.5lbs | 26Lbs/24H | not specified | not specified |
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Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the highest daily ice production?
The Silonn SLIM31T provides the highest output with 44 lbs per day. This is significantly more than the 26 lbs produced by the Frigidaire EFIC189-Silver. It is designed for high-demand settings like home bars. The unit also features self-cleaning capabilities. This makes it ideal for large gatherings where continuous ice supply is necessary.
Can I find a smaller footprint than the Frigidaire EFIC189?
Yes, the Antarctic Star 26 lb model has a compact design. It measures 8.66 inches wide and 10.4 inches deep. This is narrower and shallower than the Frigidaire’s 11 by 15 inch footprint. It is suitable for RVs or small kitchens. The compact size allows for placement in tighter spaces without sacrificing daily production capacity.
Is there an option that produces nugget ice instead of cubes?
The SenCre 40-lb Nugget Ice Maker produces soft, chewable nugget ice. This differs from the squared ice of the Frigidaire EFIC189-Silver. It offers 40 lbs of daily production. The unit is silver and designed for countertop use. It suits users who prefer the texture of nugget ice for drinks rather than hard cubes.
Which models support self-cleaning functions?
Several alternatives include self-cleaning features for easier maintenance. The Silonn SLIM31T, SenCre ICM1258S, and Crzoe 26 lb models all support this function. This feature simplifies upkeep compared to manual cleaning. It helps maintain hygiene with minimal effort. These units are suitable for users who prioritize convenience and regular sanitation of the ice-making process.
Are there color options other than silver?
Yes, you can choose from different colors. The Frigidaire EFIC120-BLKSS-SC is available in black stainless steel. The Crzoe 26 lb model comes in red. The Antarctic Star 26 lb is pure white. The SenCre 40-lb Nugget Ice Maker is silver. These options allow you to match your kitchen decor beyond the standard silver finish.
Which alternative is best for bullet ice production?
The Frigidaire EFIC120-BLKSS-SC and SenCre ICM1258S are ideal for bullet ice. They produce 26 lbs and 26.5 lbs daily, respectively. This contrasts with the squared ice of the EFIC189-Silver. Bullet ice melts faster and is preferred for certain beverages. These models offer quick production cycles suitable for small gatherings or personal use.
Does any alternative weigh less than 15 pounds?
The SenCre ICM1258S weighs 15 pounds. While this is not lighter, it is a manageable weight for moving. Other models do not list specific weights in the provided data. The compact dimensions of units like the Antarctic Star suggest portability. You can check the weight specifications for other models if mobility is a critical factor for your setup.