The verdict
The EFIC189 is the best-overall portable pick. Frigidaire's tested fast-batch ice maker at $150 — covers most household needs without the cost of a Magic Chef nugget machine.
Frigidaire EFIC189
Strengths
- +First batch ready in 7 minutes — fastest in this lineup
- +5.5-cup water tank for ~26 lb/day
- +Runs at ~55 dB — quieter than industrial models
- +Choice of 2 cube sizes
Watch-outs
- −First 5 batches make thin cubes (avoid by leaving machine on)
- −Bullet-shape cubes only
- −No drain pump
How it compares
Best fast-batch pick. Bullet ice (not nugget like EFIC255). Cheapest standard ice maker.
Who this is for
At a glance: households who want fast bullet-style ice for cocktails and water glasses.
Why you’d buy the Frigidaire EFIC189
- First batch ready in 7 minutes — fastest in this lineup.
- 5.5-cup water tank for ~26 lb/day.
- Runs at ~55 dB — quieter than industrial models.
Why you’d skip it
- First 5 batches make thin cubes (avoid by leaving machine on).
- Bullet-shape cubes only.
- No drain pump.
Rating sources
Our 4.6 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
