Frigidaire Countertop Bullet Ice Maker Guide: Lineup Compared

As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. This means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you click through and make a purchase.

Selecting an auxiliary ice maker for an executive office, breakroom, or home workspace requires understanding the engineering tradeoffs among compact freezing appliances. While every machine in this guide produces twenty-six pounds of ice per day, their operational realities diverge significantly in cycle velocity, electrical draw, counter footprint, and water reservoir capacity. When evaluating frigidaire bullet ice makers countertop models, busy professionals must determine whether rapid five-minute ice turnaround outweighs a larger water reservoir that minimizes maintenance interruptions. Countertop bullet ice makers operate by immersing refrigerated evaporator prongs into a water tray, forming rounded, hollow-centered pieces that chill beverages rapidly. Examining these machines on concrete specifications reveals which configuration aligns best with your daily workflow.

The Frigidaire lineup organizes its portable freezing appliances into three functional tiers: compact low-wattage units for shared circuits, high-reservoir models for sustained daily output, and specialized rapid-harvest machines. Rather than relying on generic descriptions, our frigidaire icemaker countertop assessment analyzes manufacturer specifications directly from Curtis International and Frigidaire documentation. If you are deciding which frigidaire ice maker to buy, comparing these physical dimensions, wattage ratings, and internal layouts ensures seamless integration with your available space.

Criteria matrix What each model in this report is credited with

Rows are the criteria that come up in the pros and cons listed for this lineup. A check means the criterion is named in this report’s write-up of that model; a dash means it is not. Criteria that apply to every model, or to only one, are left out because they separate nothing.

Criterion	Countertop Portable 4.1★	Compact Countertop Ice Maker 4.0★	Frigidaire	Compact Countertop Ice Maker Machine 4.9★	26 Lbs per Day 4.4★	Retro Compact Ice Maker 4.6★
Capacity	✓Named	✓Named	✓Named	Not named	✓Named	✓Named
Water reservoir	✓Named	✓Named	Not named	Not named	✓Named	Not named
Stainless steel	✓Named	✓Named	Not named	Not named	✓Named	Not named
Drain plug	✓Named	Not named	✓Named	Not named	✓Named	Not named
Cube sizes	✓Named	Not named	Not named	Not named	✓Named	✓Named
Reservoir volume	Not named	✓Named	Not named	Not named	✓Named	Not named
Water recycling	Not named	✓Named	Not named	✓Named	Not named	Not named
Blue finish	Not named	✓Named	Not named	Not named	Not named	✓Named
Criteria named	5 / 8	6 / 8	2 / 8	1 / 8	6 / 8	3 / 8

Built from the wording of this report, not from a bench test. A dash is not a fault: it only means the write-up does not mention that point for that model. Star figures are the average rating left by Amazon buyers, read from the product listing.

Frigidaire Countertop Bullet Ice Makers Lineup at a Glance

Best for: High-volume stations needing minimal water refills

Pros

• Generous 2.3-quart water reservoir
• Modern touch LED display
• Low 105-watt power draw

Cons

• Cycle time spans up to 15 minutes
• Plastic exterior housing

The Models in Detail

Frigidaire Countertop Portable

Best for: Executive offices needing robust black stainless styling

Pros

• Fast 7-minute cycle time
• Large 2.1-quart water capacity
• Durable black stainless steel finish

Cons

• High 1000-watt power draw
• Larger 15-inch depth footprint

The Frigidaire Countertop Portable, designated as model EFIC120-BLKSS-SC, produces up to twenty-six pounds of bullet ice daily. Housed in black stainless steel, the machine yields nine bullet-shaped cubes every seven minutes. Operators select between two distinct cube sizes using the digital LED control console. A broad, transparent viewing window on the lid allows continuous visual monitoring of ice levels without opening the cabinet and losing internal cold air.

Featuring a 2.1-quart water reservoir, this frigidaire efic120 unit supports continuous freezing cycles with fewer manual refills. The interior storage compartment holds 1.5 pounds of ice, accompanied by an included ice scoop. System sanitation is streamlined by a built-in drain plug that facilitates complete fluid drainage. The exterior measures 15 inches deep, 11 inches wide, and 14.5 inches high, occupying a defined footprint on executive credenzas or kitchen counters.

This appliance suits design-conscious professional offices that prioritize black stainless steel aesthetics. However, with a substantial 1000-watt power rating, it draws significantly more electrical load than lower-wattage models in the Frigidaire range. Where branch circuit capacity is limited, this unit yields to lower-consumption alternatives.

Frigidaire Compact Countertop Ice Maker

Best for: Mobile setups and tight desk spaces

Pros

• Rapid 5-to-6-minute cycle
• Compact 14-pound lightweight frame
• Automatic water recycling system

Cons

• Reservoir volume not specified
• Distinct blue finish

Best for: Offices needing low electrical power consumption

Pros

• Low 105-watt power consumption
• Stores up to 1.7 pounds
• Clear status indicator lights

Cons

• Slightly slower 9-minute cycle
• Smaller 1.7-liter reservoir

The Frigidaire Compact Countertop Ice Maker carries model designation EFIC121/EFIC123 with part number EFIC-B-SS. Wrapped in silver stainless steel over polypropylene housing, this machine produces up to twenty-six pounds of bullet ice per day while operating on an efficient 105-watt power draw at 60Hz. The internal freezing cycle completes in less than nine minutes, delivering fresh cubes into a storage bin rated for 1.7 pounds.

The internal architecture of this frigidaire efic121 positions a 1.7-liter water reservoir beneath the removable basket. The digital control panel features explicit indicator lights alerting users when the ice basket reaches full capacity and when the reservoir runs out of water. A clear through-window allows direct observation of the freezing prongs during operation. Frigidaire provides a one-year parts and labor warranty, along with the included basket and scoop.

This unit is ideal for energy-conscious environments and shared office cubicle circuits where higher-draw appliances risk tripping breakers. Its 1.7-liter tank is smaller than the 2.1-quart reservoirs found on sister models, making it better suited for moderate daily demand rather than continuous commercial hospitality.

Frigidaire

Distinguished by its vanilla exterior finish and modern digital interface, this Frigidaire unit is manufactured by Curtis under model number EFIC0513VANILLA. The appliance delivers twenty-six pounds of daily ice output, churning out nine bullet cubes per cycle across a seven-to-fifteen-minute window. A touch LED control panel provides intuitive size adjustment and operational control, complemented by a transparent lid window for monitoring ice production.

Equipped with a 2.3-quart water tank, this frigidaire efic0513 variant boasts the largest specified reservoir capacity in the lineup. This generous volume reduces manual maintenance, ensuring steady production throughout busy workdays. The interior stores 1.5 pounds of ice, and an integrated drain plug enables straightforward water evacuation during cleaning. The removable frigidaire ice maker basket and included scoop allow quick transport of ice directly to client beverage stations.

The EFIC0513 suits busy office suites, conference breakrooms, and residential kitchens seeking extended hands-off operation. Drawing 105 watts on standard 120-volt lines, it combines excellent fluid efficiency with low energy consumption. It gives way to more compact models when counter space is strictly constrained.

FRIGIDAIRE Compact Countertop Ice Maker Machine

Engineered for portability and rapid output, the FRIGIDAIRE Compact Countertop Ice Maker Machine (model EFIC187) features a compact chassis measuring 13 inches deep, 11 inches wide, and 12.5 inches high. Weighing just 14 pounds and finished in blue, this lightweight appliance produces nine bullet cubes every five to six minutes, yielding up to twenty-six pounds of ice in twenty-four hours.

A key mechanical feature of this frigidaire efic187 portable bullet ice maker is its automated water recycling system. As stored cubes melt over time, the unit channels runoff back into the reservoir to generate fresh ice automatically. The interface incorporates LED alert indicators for low water levels and full ice baskets, backed by an integrated air outlet that maintains heat dissipation during extended use. The package includes the machine, scoop, and operating manual.

This model is built for mobile professionals, job-site trailers, and satellite workstations requiring rapid ice turnaround in tight confines. With an operating power of 200 watts at 120 volts, it provides fast freezing, though the listing does not specify exact reservoir or basket capacities.

Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable

Best for: Professional suites prioritizing classic stainless design

Pros

• Consistent 7-minute cycle
• Convenient bottom drain plug
• 1-quart reservoir volume

Cons

• Conflicting model numbers in listing data
• Heavier stainless cabinet

The Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable represents a traditional stainless steel countertop machine cataloged under model EFIC117-SS, with secondary references to EFIC120 and part EFIC227-SILVER. Delivering twenty-six pounds of bullet ice daily, it completes nine-piece batches every seven minutes. A digital LED console allows users to choose between two cube sizes to match different drink types.

This frigidaire efic117 configuration integrates a 2.1-quart water reservoir that sustains prolonged freezing without constant refills. The internal basket holds up to 1.5 pounds of ice, accessible via the included scoop or by lifting the basket entirely. An accessible bottom drain plug facilitates regular flushing and descaling. The stainless steel cabinet provides commercial durability and blends seamlessly with office kitchen suites.

This model is well suited for executive breakrooms and team kitchenettes requiring consistent mid-speed production and durable metal casing. It gives way to the EFIC512 when higher batch storage capacity is required, or to the EFIC0513 for touch-display controls.

FRIGIDAIRE Retro Compact Ice Maker Machine

Best for: Event hosting requiring maximum basket storage

Pros

• Fast under-6-minute cycle time
• Spacious 2.2-pound storage basket
• Two selectable cube sizes

Cons

• Does not keep ice frozen
• Listing text shows mixed cube descriptions

The FRIGIDAIRE Retro Compact Ice Maker Machine carries model number EFIC512, sporting a blue finish and retro aesthetic. Despite its vintage styling, the unit houses the largest storage capacity in this lineup, holding up to 2.2 pounds of ice in its bucket. It generates twenty-six pounds daily and finishes freezing cycles in less than six minutes, offering dual size selections.

The frigidaire efic512 utilizes digital controls with flashing alert lights to notify users when ice is ready or water is depleted. Operating at 200 watts on 115-volt circuits, it includes a dedicated shovel and basket. The listing notes that this frigidaire bullet ice maker is designed strictly for ice production rather than refrigerated storage; finished cubes must be transferred promptly to avoid melting.

This unit serves team social hours and hospitality setups where ice is consumed rapidly in large volumes. Buyers should note the listing text mentions both bullet and squared ice descriptions; however, the internal evaporator prong mechanics produce standard bullet ice cubes.

Matching a Model to Your Setup

• Executive office suites and conference credenzas: Choose the Frigidaire Countertop Portable or Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable for their commercial stainless finishes, 2.1-quart reservoirs, and dependable seven-minute cycle times.
• Shared branch circuits and energy-conscious desks: Select the Frigidaire Compact Countertop Ice Maker, which operates on an ultra-low 105-watt power profile while maintaining a 1.7-pound storage bin.
• High-traffic department hubs needing infrequent refilling: Deploy the Frigidaire (EFIC0513) to capitalize on its class-leading 2.3-quart water reservoir and touch LED display.
• Cramped desks, mobile trailers, and temporary setups: Opt for the FRIGIDAIRE Compact Countertop Ice Maker Machine, which weighs only 14 pounds, measures 13 by 11 inches, and recycles melted runoff automatically.
• Team events and rapid hospitality environments: Rely on the FRIGIDAIRE Retro Compact Ice Maker Machine for its fast sub-six-minute cycle speed and spacious 2.2-pound storage bucket.

Before You Buy

Before purchasing any countertop bullet ice maker, shoppers should understand the thermodynamic limitations of portable appliances. None of the Frigidaire models reviewed feature active refrigeration in their storage bins. While internal chambers are insulated to slow melting, ice will gradually liquefy over several hours. Units with water recycling automatically redirect this water into subsequent cycles, but users requiring permanent ice storage must transfer finished batches into a standard freezer.

Additionally, manufacturer product listings leave certain engineering specifications unstated. Operational noise ratings are omitted across all models, meaning sound output during compressor cycles and ice drop sequences cannot be verified prior to installation. Furthermore, the listings do not specify reservoir capacities for the EFIC187 and EFIC512, and the EFIC117 listing includes overlapping part numbers that reflect shared manufacturing platforms across Curtis assembly facilities.

FAQ

Do Frigidaire countertop ice makers keep ice frozen permanently?

No. Countertop ice makers are production appliances, not refrigerated freezers. The storage baskets are insulated to slow melting, but the bins lack cooling coils. Ambient room temperature will eventually cause stored cubes to melt back into the reservoir. To preserve ice indefinitely, transfer batches into a standard kitchen freezer shortly after harvesting.

What is the functional difference between 105-watt and 1000-watt models?

The wattage rating dictates power draw and startup electrical load. Models like the EFIC121 and EFIC0513 operate at 105 watts, making them safe for crowded power strips, older commercial circuits, and mobile setups. The EFIC120 lists a 1000-watt rating, indicating a higher peak electrical draw that requires a stable circuit to avoid breaker trips.

How does the automated water recycling feature work?

In recycling-equipped models such as the EFIC187, melted ice drains from the holding basket back down into the primary water basin. The internal intake pump recirculates this chilled water over the evaporator prongs to produce new cubes. This prevents waste and reduces how often you must manually replenish the reservoir.

How do you clean and drain these countertop ice makers?

Units like the EFIC120, EFIC0513, and EFIC117 incorporate a base-mounted drain plug. To sanitize the machine, unplug the plug over a sink, drain residual water, and wipe the interior with a mild water and vinegar solution. Run two fresh water cycles to rinse the evaporator assembly thoroughly before resuming normal ice production.

Which Frigidaire model takes up the least counter space?

The FRIGIDAIRE Compact Countertop Ice Maker Machine (EFIC187) provides the smallest footprint, measuring 13 inches deep, 11 inches wide, and 12.5 inches high while weighing 14 pounds. Its compact dimensions make it the best option for tight breakroom counters and personal desks.