Frigidaire or Antarctic Star? Ice Makers Compared in 2026
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This frigidaire vs antarctic star ice maker comparison looks at two countertop units that both produce 26 lbs of ice daily. You get bullet-shaped cubes from either machine. The main difference lies in speed and size. Frigidaire offers a larger water tank and transparent window. Antarctic Star provides faster batch times and a more compact footprint. You choose based on your space and monitoring preferences.
Key differences
| Aspect | Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker | Antarctic Star 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Batch Time | 7 minutes | 6 minutes |
| Water Tank Capacity | 2.1 qt. | not listed |
| Storage Capacity | 1.5 lbs. | not listed |
| Dimensions | 11 x 14.5 x 15 inches | 8.66 x 11.2 x 10.4 inches |
| Special Features | Transparent window, drain plug | Self-cleaning cycle, <40dB operation |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker if
- You want to see ice production through a transparent window.
- You prefer a larger 2.1 qt. water tank to reduce refills.
- You need a drain plug for easy emptying and cleaning.
Choose Antarctic Star 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker if
- You need ice in 6 minutes instead of 7.
- You have limited counter space and want a smaller footprint.
- You value whisper-quiet operation under 40dB.
Verdict: Choose Frigidaire if you value visible ice levels, a larger water reservoir, and easy maintenance via a drain plug. Pick Antarctic Star if your priority is slightly faster ice production and a compact design that fits tighter spaces.
Frigidaire vs Antarctic Star Specs
Ice production speed
Speed matters when you need ice quickly for a gathering. The Antarctic Star model produces ice in just six minutes per batch. This is slightly faster than the Frigidaire unit, which takes seven minutes to make its nine bullet-shaped cubes. Both machines reach their full daily capacity of 26 lbs. The one-minute difference is minor for most users, but if you are hosting a large event and need a constant supply, the Antarctic Star has a slight advantage. It keeps the drinks flowing with marginally quicker cycles. For everyday home use, both speeds are efficient enough to prevent running out of ice during typical evening use.
Physical footprint
Countertop space is often limited in kitchens, offices, or dorms. The Antarctic Star is significantly more compact. Its dimensions are approximately 11.2 inches in height, 10.4 inches in length, and 8.66 inches in width. In contrast, the Frigidaire model is larger, measuring 14.5 inches high, 15 inches long, and 11 inches wide. The Antarctic Star’s smaller footprint makes it easier to fit in tight spaces, such as a small RV kitchen or a crowded bar cart. If you have ample counter space, the size difference may not matter. However, for those prioritizing a compact design that does not dominate the workspace, the Antarctic Star is the clear winner.
Water tank capacity
The water tank size determines how often you must refill the machine. The Frigidaire features a 2.1-quart water tank. This larger capacity allows for longer, uninterrupted ice-making sessions before you need to add more water. The Antarctic Star’s specific water tank capacity is not listed in the provided specifications. Without this data, we cannot directly compare the volume of water each unit holds. However, the Frigidaire’s explicit 2.1-quart tank suggests a design focused on reducing refill frequency. If you prefer fewer refills, the known spec of the Frigidaire offers a practical advantage for convenience.
Drainage and cleaning
Maintenance ease varies between these two units. The Frigidaire includes a drain plug, which allows you to easily empty the water tank for cleaning and maintenance. This feature simplifies the process of keeping the machine hygienic. The Antarctic Star highlights a self-cleaning care feature, which is a one-touch maintenance cycle designed to keep ice tasting fresh and prevent odors. It is recommended to activate this weekly or after two weeks of inactivity. While the Frigidaire offers manual drainage control, the Antarctic Star provides an automated cleaning cycle. Both approaches address cleanliness, but they do so in different ways, making this a tie based on available data.
Noise level
Operation noise is important if the ice maker sits in a living area or bedroom. The Antarctic Star specifies a noise level of less than 40 decibels, described as whisper-quiet tech. This allows for normal conversation or work without disturbance. The Frigidaire’s noise level is not listed in the provided specifications. Without a decibel rating for the Frigidaire, we cannot confirm if it is quieter or louder than the Antarctic Star. If low noise is a priority, the Antarctic Star provides a verified spec that supports quiet operation. For users sensitive to sound, this known advantage makes the Antarctic Star the safer choice until further data is available.
Ice storage capacity
How much ice you can store at once affects how often you check the basket. The Frigidaire includes an interior basket that holds up to 1.5 lbs of ice at a time. This is a specific storage limit you can rely on. The Antarctic Star’s ice storage capacity is not listed in the provided specifications. We know it produces 26 lbs daily, but we do not know how much it can hold internally at any given moment. The Frigidaire’s explicit 1.5 lbs storage capacity offers a clear metric for planning. If you need to know your immediate ice supply limit, the Frigidaire provides the necessary data for better planning.
Which ice maker fits your needs
Hosts needing quick ice for parties
The Antarctic Star model delivers ice in six minutes per batch. This is the fastest cycle listed for either unit. You get 26 lbs of bullet ice daily. The compact footprint allows placement in tight spaces. If speed is your priority, this six-minute production time helps you keep drinks cold without waiting.
Users wanting easy monitoring and cleaning
The Frigidaire unit features a transparent window to check ice levels visually. It includes a 2.1 qt water tank to reduce refill frequency. A drain plug allows for easy emptying. You also get a digital LED panel for control. These specs make daily maintenance and ice management more convenient for your kitchen counter.
RV owners or portable setup users
This Antarctic Star model measures 8.66 by 10.4 by 11.2 inches. Its smaller footprint fits easily into RVs, tailgates, or small spaces. Both units are countertop portable, but this unit takes up less surface area. You can move it easily for beach or camping hydration needs while still getting 26 lbs of ice daily.
The products compared
Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker
Best for: Small gatherings needing steady bullet ice output
- 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
View on Amazon: Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker Affiliate link
This Frigidaire countertop ice maker produces up to 26 lbs of bullet ice daily. It creates a batch every 7 minutes and holds 1.5 lbs in its storage basket. The unit features a 2.1 qt water tank and a drain plug for easy cleaning. Its digital LED panel lets you adjust settings. The sleek black stainless steel design fits well in kitchens or offices.
Pros
- Produces up to 26 lbs of ice per day
- Makes 9 bullet-shaped cubes every 7 minutes
- Includes a drain plug for easy maintenance
- Transparent window shows ice levels and production
- 2.1 qt water tank reduces refill frequency
Cons
- 1.5 lbs storage capacity fills quickly during heavy use
- Manual water tank requires frequent refilling for continuous operation
- No automatic water line connection listed
Good fit if
- You need a steady supply of bullet ice for parties
- You prefer a compact unit that sits on a counter
- You want easy cleaning with a built-in drain plug
Skip if
- You need ice production faster than 7 minutes per batch
- You require a large internal storage basket for bulk storage
- You want a portable unit with a handle for easy carrying
Verdict: Frigidaire 26 lb Bullet Ice Maker delivers reliable daily output for small gatherings. It suits you if you value consistent bullet ice and simple manual controls over advanced connectivity.
Antarctic Star 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker
Best for: compact spaces and quick bullet ice
- Daily Ice Production
- 26 lbs/day
- Ice Type
- bullet
- Form Factor
- countertop
- Batch Time
- 6 minutes
- Dimensions
- 10.4 × 8.66 × 11.2 inches
View on Amazon: Antarctic Star 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker Affiliate link
The Antarctic Star 26 lb/day ice maker produces bullet ice in 6 minutes. Its compact 8.66 x 10.4 x 11.2 inch footprint fits small spaces like RVs or office desks. The unit operates quietly under 40 dB and includes a self-cleaning cycle. This model suits you if you need fast, quiet ice production without taking up much counter space.
Pros
- Produces 26 lbs of bullet ice per day
- Makes ice in 6 minutes per batch
- Operates quietly at under 40 dB
- Compact 8.66 x 10.4 x 11.2 inch size
Cons
- Only produces bullet ice, not cubes or crescents
- No remote control or smart app connectivity
- Limited to 26 lbs daily output
Good fit if
- You need ice quickly for small gatherings
- You have limited counter space in an RV or office
- You prefer quiet operation near living areas
Skip if
- You need large ice cubes for cocktails
- You want to control the machine via smartphone
- You require more than 26 lbs of ice daily
Verdict: Antarctic Star 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker is a practical choice for users who prioritize speed and quiet operation in a small footprint. It fits well in compact spaces where bullet ice is sufficient.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker | Antarctic Star 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Ice Production | Up to 26 lbs. | 26 lbs/day |
| Storage Capacity | 1.5 lbs. | not stated |
| Ice Type | Bullet | bullet |
| Form Factor | Countertop | countertop |
| Batch Time | 7 minutes | 6 minutes |
| Water Supply | 2.1 qt. water tank | not stated |
| Drain Type | Drain plug | not stated |
| Daily Capacity | 26 lbs/Day | 26 lbs/Day |
| Dimensions | 15 × 11 × 14.5 inches | 10.4 × 8.66 × 11.2 inches |
| Size | Medium | 26Lbs/24H |
| Color | BLACK STAINLESS | Pure White |
| Model | EFIC120-BLKSS-SC | 58012RIMO |
Frequently asked questions
Which ice maker is smaller?
The Antarctic Star model has the smaller footprint. Its dimensions are 8.66 inches wide, 11.2 inches high, and 10.4 inches long. The Frigidaire unit is larger, measuring 11 inches wide, 14.5 inches high, and 15 inches long. You should choose the Antarctic Star if counter space is limited.
Do both machines make the same type of ice?
Yes, both units produce bullet ice. The Frigidaire 26 lb Portable Bullet Ice Maker and the Antarctic Star 26 lb Countertop Ice Maker both create bullet-shaped cubes. You get consistent bullet ice from either machine, so the ice type is not a deciding factor between them.
What is the daily ice capacity for each?
Both machines have the same daily capacity. They each produce 26 lbs of ice per day. This output is sufficient for small gatherings or regular household use. You do not need to choose one over the other based on daily volume since the numbers are identical.
Which one is black stainless steel?
The Frigidaire unit comes in black stainless steel. Its color is listed as Black Stainless. The Antarctic Star model is Pure White. If you prefer a darker finish that matches stainless steel appliances, the Frigidaire is the correct choice for your kitchen decor.
Is one model more portable?
The Frigidaire is explicitly labeled as portable. It is described as a Countertop, Portable unit. The Antarctic Star is listed only as a Countertop model. If you plan to move the machine frequently, the Frigidaire’s portable designation suggests it is designed for easier transport.
What are the model numbers for these units?
The Frigidaire model number is EFIC120-BLKSS-SC. The Antarctic Star model number is 58012RIMO. You can use these numbers to find specific replacement parts or manuals. They help identify the exact versions of these ice makers when searching for support information online.