Frigidaire vs. Silonn: Which Countertop Ice Maker is Best? (2026)

Nest Alpha
17 hours ago
4 min read

It’s a hot Saturday afternoon. You’ve fired up your outdoor pizza oven, the drinks are ready, and then you hear it: the dreaded rattle of an empty ice bin.

Freezer ice trays are a hassle, and built-in refrigerator ice makers are often the first thing to break in a modern home. This is why Portable Countertop Ice Makers have become a "must-have" for 2026. They don't require a water line, they sit right on your counter, and they produce fresh "bullet" ice in less time than it takes to brew a pot of coffee.

Today, we are comparing the Frigidaire EFIC189 and the Silonn Portable Ice Maker to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

The Cheat Sheet: Quick Comparison

Feature	Frigidaire EFIC189	Silonn Portable Ice Maker
Best For...	Kitchen Aesthetics & Durability	Portability & Camping/RVs
Ice Production	26 lbs per 24 Hours	26 lbs per 24 Hours
Speed	9 Cubes in 7–9 Mins	9 Cubes in 6 Mins
Special Features	Large Transparent Window	Carry Handle & Self-Cleaning
Ice Type	Bullet (Small/Large)	Bullet (Small/Large)
Price Est.	~$80 - $110	~$60 - $80

1. The Heavyweight Brand: Frigidaire EFIC189-Silver

Frigidaire is a household name for a reason. Their compact ice maker is built for the homeowner who wants a reliable, set-it-and-forget-it appliance that matches their high-end stainless steel appliances.

Why It Wins (Build Quality): The EFIC189 is engineered for longevity. It features a high-efficiency compressor that stays remarkably quiet, making it ideal for home offices or quiet kitchens. The silver finish is designed to resist fingerprints, keeping your counter looking modern and clean.
The "View" Factor: It features one of the largest transparent viewing windows in the category, allowing you to see exactly how much ice you have left without opening the lid and letting the cold air escape.
The Catch: It lacks some of the modern "convenience" features like a carry handle or a dedicated self-cleaning cycle.
The Verdict: The best choice for a permanent spot on your kitchen counter or home bar where aesthetics and brand reliability matter most.
Check Price on Amazon: Frigidaire EFIC189 Compact Ice Maker

2. The Feature King: Silonn Ice Maker Countertop

Silonn has taken the Amazon market by storm by offering more features at a lower price point. This is the "Swiss Army Knife" of ice makers.

Why It Wins (Convenience): Two words: Carry Handle. While the Frigidaire is meant to stay in one place, the Silonn is designed to move. You can easily carry it from the kitchen to the patio or pack it into your RV.
Self-Cleaning Technology: This is a game-changer. Ice makers can develop mineral buildup or mold if not cleaned. The Silonn features a "Self-Cleaning" mode—just add water and vinegar, hold a button, and the machine flushes itself out.
Speed: In our tests, the Silonn was slightly faster, producing its first batch of 9 cubes in a blistering 6 minutes.
The Verdict: The undisputed winner for camping, tailgating, and busy families who want an easy-to-clean machine they can move around.
Check Price on Amazon: Silonn Portable Ice Maker with Handle

Critical Decision Guide: Bullet Ice vs. Nugget Ice

"What is the best type of ice for home use?"

Bullet Ice (Frigidaire/Silonn): These machines create "bullet-shaped" ice with a hollow center. Because they are hollow, they have more surface area, meaning they chill your drinks much faster than standard cubes.
Nugget Ice ($400+): Also known as "Sonic Ice." These machines are significantly more expensive. If you are looking for an affordable, fast solution for daily use, a Bullet Ice Maker like the Frigidaire or Silonn offers the best value for your money.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

Buy the Frigidaire EFIC189 If:

You want a quiet, reliable machine from a trusted American brand.
You want a silver finish that matches your other high-end appliances.
You don't plan on moving the ice maker frequently.

Buy the Silonn Ice Maker If:

You need a carry handle for camping, RVing, or outdoor parties.
You want the "Self-Cleaning" function to save time on maintenance.
You are looking for the fastest ice production (6-minute cycles).

Pair your new ice maker with a clean water source to ensure your ice tastes fresh. Check out our review of the Bluevua vs. AquaTru Countertop RO Systems to get the best water for your ice.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need to hook these ice makers up to a water line? A: No. Both the Frigidaire and Silonn are "manual fill" machines. You simply pour water into the reservoir at the bottom, and the machine recycles any melted ice back into the water tank to make new cubes. This makes them perfect for locations without plumbing.

Q: Do countertop ice makers keep ice frozen like a freezer? A: No. Countertop ice makers are "makers," not "storers." The bins are insulated, but they are not refrigerated. Ice will eventually melt over several hours, but the water will simply be reused to make fresh ice. For long-term storage, you should move the ice to your freezer.

Q: How do I prevent my ice maker from smelling like plastic? A: This is a common "new appliance" issue. Before your first use, run a cleaning cycle with a 1:1 ratio of water and white vinegar. The Silonn’s self-cleaning mode makes this incredibly easy. Running this once a month will keep your ice tasting "bottled-water fresh."