6 models in this file
Frigidaire Ice Makers: Bullet vs Nugget
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Frigidaire has earned a commanding position in the countertop refrigeration category by engineering standalone machines that solve everyday ice deficits without complex plumbing. Whether you are stocking a recreational vehicle for a cross-country excursion, setting up a beverage station in a dorm or rental, or upgrading a home bar, shopping for a fridgidair ice maker offers direct access to rapid freezing mechanisms and specialized cube textures. The lineup spans from lightweight appliances that churn out hollow cylinders within minutes to advanced kitchen counter installations that compress shaved flake ice into airy, chewable nuggets.
While the compact bullet machines prioritize fast initial freezing cycles, modest footprints, and plug-and-play mobility for travelers, the brand’s larger nugget ice makers introduce expanded daily outputs, automated self-cleaning programs, and restaurant-quality sonic ice texture for high-demand kitchen environments.
The line-up at a glance
Frigidaire Countertop Ice Makers Compared
| Model | Ice Type & Daily Output | Water & Storage Capacity | Power & Dimensions | Key Cleaning Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable (EFIC117-SS) | Bullet cubes, 26 lbs per day | 2.1 qt reservoir, 1.5 lbs bin | Not listed | Manual drain plug |
| Frigidaire Countertop Portable (EFIC120-BLKSS-SC) | Bullet cubes, 26 lbs per day | 2.1 qt reservoir, 1.5 lbs bin | 1000 W, 15″D x 11″W x 14.5″H | Manual drain plug |
| Frigidaire Countertop Crunchy Chewable Nugget Ice (EFIC22BAMZ) | Square chewable nuggets, 33 lbs per day | 2.5 qt basket (3 lbs), tank unlisted | 200 W, 120 V | Melted ice recirculation |
| FRIGIDAIRE Gallery Countertop Crunchy Chewable Nugget (EFIC165) | Airy chewable nuggets, 44 lbs per day | Built-in reservoir, 3 lbs bin | 500 W, 120 V | One-touch auto self-cleaning |
| Frigidaire Nugget Ice Maker (EFIC255-CREAM) | Chewable nugget ice, 44 lbs per day | Built-in reservoir, 3 lbs bin | 500 W, 115 V | One-touch auto self-cleaning |
| FRIGIDAIRE Touchscreen Nugget Ice Maker (EFIC2320BLK) | Chewable nugget ice, 33 lbs per day | 1.8 L tank, 1.2 L (0.7 kg) bin | 192 W, dimensions unlisted | 20-minute auto self-cleaning |
No. 1 of 6 · Frigidaire
Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable for Fast Road Trip Refreshment
8.2/10 Our score
Best for: Quick bullet ice on road trips
What the listing says
- Sleek Design – Never run out of ice again with the Frigidaire Ice Maker that produces up to 26 lbs.
- Fast Ice Production – This compact ice maker makes hosting easy!
- Intuitive Control – The ice maker features a transparent window so you can easily monitor ice…
- Large Water Capacity – With a 2.1 qt.
- Bonus Accessory – Enhance your ice making experience with the included ice scoop for easy retrieval of ice cubes.
Pros
- Fast 7-minute cycle
- Transparent viewing window
- Includes ice scoop
- Easy bottom drain plug
Cons
- Bullet ice melts quickly
- Small 1.5-pound bin
The Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable is built around immediate ice production, making it an essential companion for road trips, tailgates, and tight kitchen galleys. Encased in a stainless steel exterior, this classic freestanding unit generates 9 bullet-shaped cubes every 7 minutes, scaling up to an overall output of 26 pounds of ice per day. The machine relies on an intuitive top-mounted digital LED control panel where you can toggle between two cube sizes depending on whether you are chilling water flasks or mixing mixed drinks.
Operational convenience is central to this design. A generous 2.1-quart water reservoir sits beneath the basket, reducing the need for constant topping off during a busy gathering. The internal storage bin holds up to 1.5 pounds of ice at a time, and a transparent top window allows travelers to monitor reserve levels at a glance without lifting the lid and losing cold air. When packing light is paramount, this frigidaire compact ice maker empties quickly thanks to a built-in bottom drain plug, and it includes a plastic scoop for clean ice handling.
This entry-level model is best suited for campers, RVers, and small-apartment hosts who require dependable, fast-cycling ice without taking up excessive counter area. It yields to the black stainless version if you need a darker color palette, or to the nugget models if you prefer soft, chewable ice over hard bullet cylinders.
No. 2 of 6 · Frigidaire
Frigidaire Countertop Portable for Modern Kitchen Counters
8.2/10 Our score
Best for: Countertops needing dark stainless styling
What the listing says
- Sleek Design – Never run out of ice again with the Frigidaire Ice Maker that produces up to 26 lbs.
- Fast Ice Production – This compact ice maker makes hosting easy!
- Intuitive Control – The ice maker features a transparent window so you can easily monitor ice…
- Large Water Capacity – With a 2.1 qt.
- Bonus Accessory – Enhance your ice making experience with the included ice scoop for easy retrieval of ice cubes.
Pros
- Sleek black stainless finish
- Produces 9 bullets per round
- Digital LED control panel
- Two cube sizes
Cons
- High 1000-watt rating
- Stores only 1.5 pounds
Sharing the internal architecture of the classic bullet series, the Frigidaire Countertop Portable swaps traditional bright metallic housing for a sleek black stainless steel finish. Measuring 15 inches deep, 11 inches wide, and 14.5 inches high, this countertop unit is sized to sit neatly beneath standard overhead cabinets or take up residence on a dedicated wet bar cart. Its mechanical core is rated at 1000 watts, delivering rapid freezing performance that produces 9 bullet cubes every 7 minutes.
The unit features a 2.1-quart water capacity that supports continuous production up to its maximum ceiling of 26 pounds per day. Users can choose between two selectable cube sizes on the digital LED panel, ensuring optimal surface contact whether chilling tall cocktail glasses or wide thermoses. A 1.5-pound removable ice basket and an included scoop make dispensing ice sanitary and straightforward. When routine maintenance or storage preparation is due, the bottom drain plug allows you to evacuate standing water rapidly without awkward tipping.
If you are exploring a frigidaire ice maker 26 lbs configuration and want a dark aesthetic that matches slate or black stainless kitchen suites, this model is an outstanding choice. It is ideal for couples and small households, though high-volume entertaining will eventually warrant moving up to a high-capacity nugget alternative.
No. 3 of 6 · Frigidaire
Frigidaire Countertop Crunchy Chewable Nugget Ice for Portable Chewable Cubes
8.6/10 Our score
Best for: Campers wanting chewable restaurant ice
What the listing says
- COUNTERTOP SIZE With it’s elegant design, the EFIC228_AMZ will wow your guests before they even try the delicious…
- QUICK and POWERFUL: Within only 15 minutes, you’ll be enjoying soft, crunchy ice, just like the…
- PORTABLE Compact countertop design plugs into any electrical outlet at home and can come with you to…
- HIGH CAPACITY Produces 33 lbs. of ice per day, and the bin holds 3 lbs.
- AUTOMATIC As ice melts, the water returns to the reservoir, where it will simply be made back…
- Important This ice maker is designed to produce ice, not store it.
Pros
- Soft chewable square nuggets
- Automatic water recirculation
- Low 200-watt power draw
- No plumbing required
Cons
- No self-cleaning cycle
- Does not keep ice frozen
For beverage enthusiasts who favor the soft, crunchable ice popularized by drive-in restaurants, the Frigidaire Countertop Crunchy Chewable Nugget Ice introduces specialized compression freezing to a mobile form factor. Operating on standard 115-volt or 120-volt household current at an energy-conscious 200 watts, this metallic-finished machine produces chewable square crunchy nuggets that float in drinks without dulling blender blades or bruising sensitive teeth.
Speed is a defining feature here: the appliance delivers its first batch of fresh nuggets in just 10 to 15 minutes after power-on. Over a 24-hour cycle, this frigidaire nugget ice maker generates up to 33 pounds of chewable ice, storing up to 3 pounds (or 2.5 quarts) inside its pull-out basket. It operates without a permanent water hookup, requiring only that you fill the internal reservoir manually. An automatic recycling feature collects water as the stored ice slowly melts, routing it back into the reservoir to be frozen into fresh nuggets.
This model is the ideal match for tailgaters, RV travelers, and soda enthusiasts who prioritize restaurant-grade texture over classic bullet cubes. Buyers must remember that the listing explicitly notes the machine produces ice rather than acting as a deep freezer; unused ice must eventually be moved to a freezer to avoid melting. Those seeking automated self-cleaning cycles will prefer the Gallery edition.
No. 4 of 6 · Frigidaire
FRIGIDAIRE Gallery Countertop Crunchy Chewable Nugget for High-Demand Entertaining
6.6/10 Our score
Best for: High-demand home entertaining and kitchens
What the listing says
- Effortless Touch Control – Tap into intuitive ice-making with our intelligent control panel.
- Compact Size – Conveniently sized for spaces of all size, this compact ice maker fits under…
- Convenient Design – Designed with drawer access and a viewing window, this nugget ice maker allows…
- Automated Self-cleaning – The auto self-cleaning function with the press of a button ensures fresh-tasting ice…
- Sleek And Practical- Designed with a stylish matte exterior, this nugget ice machine adds sophistication to any kitchen.
Pros
- High 44-pound daily output
- One-touch automated self-cleaning
- Fits under standard cabinets
- Convenient pull-out drawer
Cons
- Higher 500-watt power draw
- Larger overall footprint
Stepping into the premium tier of home ice production, the FRIGIDAIRE Gallery Countertop Crunchy Chewable Nugget is engineered for busy entertaining environments and serious chewable ice fans. Part of the second-generation design series, this matte black machine raises daily production to an impressive 44 pounds of chewable, airy nugget ice. The first batch drops into the collection tray in 10 to 15 minutes, ensuring minimal waiting during gatherings.
This frigidaire gallery nugget ice maker integrates modern conveniences, including a front-access drawer system paired with a clear viewing window for quick ice level assessments. The unit features an intelligent touch control panel that governs operations, while a built-in reservoir eliminates external plumbing lines. Crucially, sanitation is simplified through an automated self-cleaning cycle activated by a single button press, keeping the interior tubing free from mineral deposits and scale. The 500-watt machine is supplied with an ice bin, a scoop, and an external drip tray.
This Gallery appliance is tailored for large households, home entertainers, and open-plan offices that deplete standard ice trays rapidly. While its 500-watt draw and higher overall capacity make it heavier than the basic bullet models, its generous output and self-cleaning cycle make it an exceptional upgrade for permanent kitchen installation.
No. 5 of 6 · Frigidaire
Frigidaire Nugget Ice Maker for Designer Spaces
9.2/10 Our score
Best for: Modern kitchens seeking retro cream aesthetics
What the listing says
- Award-Winning Innovation Ces 2023 Innovation Awards Honoree, The Frigidaire Nugget Ice Maker Revolutionizes Home Ice With Soft, Yet…
- Effortless Touch Control Tap Into Intuitive Ice-Making With Our Intelligent Control Panel.
- Compact Size Conveniently Sized For Spaces Of All Size, This Compact Ice Maker Fits Under Cabinets For Seamless Countertop Placement.
- Convenient Design Designed With Drawer Access And A Viewing Window, This Nugget Ice Maker Allows You To Quickly View Ice Levels.
- Automated Self-cleaning The Auto Self-Cleaning Function With The Press Of A Button Ensures Fresh-Tasting Ice Every Time, Maintaining Optimal Hygiene And Taste.
Pros
- Award-winning cream aesthetic
- 44-pound daily capacity
- Effortless touch controls
- Includes scoop and drip tray
Cons
- Ice bin requires frequent emptying
- Heavier countertop unit
Recognized as a CES 2023 Innovation Awards Honoree, the Frigidaire Nugget Ice Maker pairs high-output cooling hardware with an elegant retro-inspired cream exterior. Designed to complement boutique counters, light-toned RV cabinetry, and mid-century kitchen aesthetics, this machine produces up to 44 pounds of soft, chewable nugget ice per day. Just like its darker Gallery sibling, it yields its first restaurant-quality nuggets in 10 to 15 minutes.
The unit incorporates an effortless touch-control interface across its upper frame, making cycling and maintenance completely intuitive. Its cabinet-friendly profile allows it to slide cleanly beneath upper counters, while the front pull-out drawer and transparent window provide effortless monitoring and retrieval. An automated self-cleaning function protects ice taste and internal hygiene with minimal user labor. Operating at 500 watts on 115-volt power, the package includes the ice maker, an internal ice bin, a dedicated scoop, and a matching drip tray.
This 44-pound machine suits homeowners, mobile glampers, and designers who demand restaurant-grade chewable ice without settling for clinical stainless steel or industrial black finishes. It matches the top-end Gallery model in mechanical output, giving way only to the touchscreen model if smart status readouts and lower electrical wattage are your priorities.
No. 6 of 6 · Frigidaire
FRIGIDAIRE Touchscreen Nugget Ice Maker for Smart Monitoring
6.4/10 Our score
Best for: Home bars needing smart indicator monitoring
What the listing says
- Soft Chewable Nugget Ice – Enjoy light, crunchy, chewable nugget ice that blends perfectly with any…
- Effortless Touchscreen Control Tap Into Intuitive Ice-Making With Our Intelligent Control Panel.
- Automatic Cleaning Cycle – Self-cleaning function completes in just 20 minutes for easy maintenance and long-term performance.
- Manual Fill Design – No plumbing required—just add water to the 1.8 L tank for portable and convenient use anywhere.
- Smart Status Indicators – “Add Water,” “Ice Full,” “Ice Making,” and “Water Level” alerts keep you informed at all times.
Pros
- Smart LED status alerts
- Built-in interior illumination
- Fast 20-minute cleaning cycle
- Efficient 192-watt operation
Cons
- Smaller 1.2-liter ice basket
- Moderate 33-pound daily output
The FRIGIDAIRE Touchscreen Nugget Ice Maker combines specialized soft chewable ice production with an informative digital monitoring system. Finished in modern slate, this appliance produces up to 33 pounds of airy, flavor-absorbing nugget ice daily, making it ideal for iced coffees, craft sodas, and blended smoothies. The first round of chewable ice is ready within 10 to 15 minutes from a cold start.
The defining strength of this frigidaire touchscreen nugget ice maker is its responsive LED panel equipped with smart status indicators. The interface displays clear alerts for Add Water, Ice Full, Ice Making, and Water Level, removing guesswork from reservoir management. The manual-fill design houses a 1.8-liter water tank and a 1.2-liter (approximately 0.7 kg) storage bin, complemented by interior illumination so users can check bin capacity even in low-light bar environments. Maintenance is handled via a dedicated 20-minute automatic self-cleaning cycle, and the efficient 192-watt compressor limits power consumption.
This model is the ideal selection for home mixologists, night owls, and travelers who want comprehensive operational feedback and interior lighting. While it yields lower daily total volume than the 44-pound units, its modern touchscreen controls, compact water management, and sub-200-watt power draw make it exceptionally refined for everyday countertop duty.
Before you choose
How to Choose the Right Frigidaire Countertop Ice Maker
Selecting between the various countertop models from Frigidaire requires evaluating your ice texture preference, daily consumption requirements, power limitations, and willingness to perform manual cleaning. A proper frigidaire ice maker comparison begins with the fundamental distinction between hollow bullet ice and chewable compressed nugget ice.
If your primary goal is rapid production for packing coolers, filling gym bottles, or supplying cold drinks on a fishing trip, a frigidaire 26 lb bullet ice maker is the logical choice. The standard stainless and black stainless machines freeze water over submerged cooling prongs, delivering 9 solid, hollow bullet cylinders every 7 minutes. Bullet units are exceptionally straightforward to operate, require no specialized descaling cycles, and drain quickly via a physical rubber plug. They also represent the most portable countertop ice maker choices for mobile setups where physical storage space and rapid turnover take precedence.
Conversely, if you prize the texture of crushed drive-in ice, one of the nugget models will be mandatory. Nugget machines flake and compress ice into soft, chewable pieces that absorb drink flavors. When deciding which frigidaire ice maker to buy in the nugget category, balance capacity against power draw. The 33-pound models operate around 192 to 200 watts, making them friendlier for portable power stations, RV inverters, and smaller household circuits. The 44-pound models draw 500 watts, delivering significantly more ice per hour for entertaining at the expense of a heavier footprint.
Finally, consider daily operation and upkeep. Nugget appliances contain intricate internal augers and condensing tubes that benefit immensely from automated cleaning cycles. The 44-pound units and the touchscreen 33-pound unit provide built-in self-cleaning routines that cycle cleaning solutions through the fluid lines automatically. For dark entertainment rooms or late-night cocktail preparation, the touchscreen model’s interior illumination and active water-level sensors offer an extra layer of operational convenience.
Questions people ask
FAQ
Does a Frigidaire countertop ice maker keep ice frozen all day?
Countertop ice makers from Frigidaire are designed to produce ice on demand rather than store it indefinitely like a deep freezer. The internal bins are insulated to slow ambient warming, but because the storage baskets are not actively refrigerated, cubes will gradually melt over time. In models like the 33-pound chewable nugget machine, melted water drains directly back into the internal reservoir, where the system automatically refreezes it into new ice. To store ice long-term, transfer finished batches into your kitchen freezer.
How fast does a Frigidaire portable ice maker produce its first batch?
The speed depends on whether the unit creates bullet or nugget ice. The 26-pound bullet machines are the fastest, dispensing 9 complete bullet-shaped cubes within 7 minutes of activation. The nugget ice makers require a brief chilling period to begin flaking and compressing ice, producing their first chewable nuggets within 10 to 15 minutes of being plugged in and filled with water.
Can you use tap water in a Frigidaire nugget ice maker?
While standard tap water can be used, filtered or distilled water is strongly recommended for all countertop ice appliances. Nugget ice machines compress ice flakes through mechanical extruders, making them especially sensitive to mineral scale buildup. Using filtered water protects the internal mechanics, preserves the crisp taste of the chewable cubes, and reduces the frequency of descaling maintenance.
How does the automated self-cleaning cycle work on Frigidaire ice machines?
On equipped units such as the 44-pound Gallery and the 33-pound touchscreen model, pressing the self-cleaning button activates an automated pump cycle. The machine circulates clean water and descaling solution through the internal water lines, auger mechanisms, and reservoir without chilling the liquid. On the touchscreen model, this process completes in 20 minutes, after which you simply drain the rinse water using the rear or bottom port.
What is the difference between Frigidaire bullet ice and nugget ice?
Bullet ice consists of hard, cylindrical cubes with a hollow core created by freezing water around metal evaporator fingers. Bullet cubes are dense, chill warm liquids rapidly, and resist melting when packed in beverage thermoses. Nugget ice, often called sonic or chewable ice, is created by scraping ice shavings into soft, layered pellets. Nugget ice is airy, easy to chew, and absorbs the flavor of sodas and cocktails.
Prices, specifications and the feature lines above are read from the product listing and can change without notice. Scores are out of 10, based on listed specifications and buyer feedback; nothing on this page is written from handling the product.
