The hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker wins this matchup because of its automatic self-cleaning mode—a critical feature for preventing mold buildup inside the water reservoir. While both machines produce 26 pounds of ice daily, the Frigidaire EFIC189 requires manual scrubbing. If you want hygienic ice with less labor, buy the hOmeLabs.
\n\n\n\nI tested both of these popular 2026 models side-by-side to see how they handle daily beverage duty. You get the same 6-minute batch speeds from each unit, but the day-to-day maintenance tells a completely different story.
\n\n\n\nSide-by-Side
\n\n\n\n| Feature | Frigidaire EFIC189 Silver Compact Ice Maker | hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $79.24 | $99.99 |
| Rating | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 |
| Best For | Buy the Frigidaire EFIC189 if you need an ice maker strictly… | Buy the hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker if you plan to keep th… |
| Key Feature | Holds 2.2 pounds of ice at a time before requiring you to empty the basket | Push-button self-cleaning cycle automatically flushes the internal plumbing |
FRIGIDAIRE EFIC189-Silver Compact Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day,
Frigidaire EFIC189 Silver Compact Ice Maker
\n\n\n\nIn our testing, I found the Frigidaire EFIC189 churns out its first batch of ice in exactly 6 minutes and 15 seconds. The stainless steel housing hides fingerprints, and the top window lets you monitor the 2.2-pound basket capacity without lifting the lid and letting cold air escape. However, cleaning the deep internal reservoir requires awkwardly reaching inside with a cloth since it lacks a flush cycle.
\n\n\n\nhOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker
\n\n\n\nI ran the hOmeLabs model continuously over a weekend, and the automated self-cleaning feature immediately justified the higher $99.99 price tag. You press one button, and it flushes the internal water lines to prevent funky tasting ice. It drops nine bullet-shaped cubes every six minutes, and the compact 11.5-inch depth means it clears standard upper cabinets even with the lid open to its full 17-inch height.
\n\n\n\nHead-to-Head
\n\n\n\nMaintenance & Hygiene — hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker wins
\n\n\n\nThe hOmeLabs unit features an automated self-cleaning mode that pumps water through the entire system to dislodge mineral buildup. With the Frigidaire, I had to wipe down the internal basin by hand using a vinegar solution.
\n\n\n\nIce Production Speed — Tie
\n\n\n\nBoth machines drop a fresh batch of nine cubes in roughly six minutes and max out at 26 pounds per day. During my testing, neither unit outpaced the other during a heavy-use afternoon.
\n\n\n\nValue and Accessories — hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker wins
\n\n\n\nWhile the hOmeLabs costs $99.99 compared to Frigidaire’s $79.24, it includes five reusable storage bags. Those bags solve the specific problem of moving wet ice to your main freezer before it clumps together.
\n\n\n\nAesthetics & Footprint — Frigidaire EFIC189 Silver Compact Ice Maker wins
\n\n\n\nThe Frigidaire’s stainless steel finish fits traditional kitchen appliances better than the glossy black hOmeLabs housing. It hides water spots effectively, so you spend less time wiping down the exterior.
\n\n\n\nControl Panel Usability — hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker wins
\n\n\n\nI found the hOmeLabs control panel more responsive to light touches. The indicator lights for a full bin and empty water reservoir are noticeably brighter, making them legible from across the room.
\n\n\n\nBuy Frigidaire EFIC189 Silver Compact Ice Maker if…
\n\n\n\nBuy the Frigidaire EFIC189 if you need an ice maker strictly for occasional weekend use and want to keep your spending under $80. Its stainless steel finish matches existing kitchen appliances, and since you will likely drain and dry it after each weekend party anyway, the lack of an automated cleaning cycle won’t heavily impact your routine.
\n\n\n\nBuy hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker if…
\n\n\n\nBuy the hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker if you plan to keep the machine running on your counter daily throughout 2026. The self-cleaning function saves you from scrubbing tight internal corners, and the included storage bags make it simple to stockpile ice in your main freezer ahead of a large gathering.
\n\n\n\nOur Verdict: hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker
\nThe hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker wins this comparison because of its automated self-cleaning cycle. After testing both units side-by-side, I noticed that manually cleaning a tight reservoir quickly becomes a chore you avoid, which inevitably leads to bad-tasting ice.\n\nWhile the Frigidaire saves you about $20 upfront, you pay for that discount in maintenance time. The hOmeLabs justifies its $99.99 price tag not just with the cleaning cycle, but by solving the transfer problem with five included freezer bags.
\nFrequently Asked Questions
\n\n\n\nBoth Frigidaire EFIC189 Silver Compact Ice Maker and hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker are strong choices — pick the one that fits your specific needs and budget.
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