The Igloo Handled Portable Ice Maker beats the Frigidaire EFIC189 because its built-in self-cleaning cycle prevents the mold buildup common in countertop machines. I tested both, and while the Frigidaire drops ice one minute faster, the Igloo’s carrying handle and automated maintenance make it much easier to live with daily.
\n\n\n\nCountertop ice makers share a similar fatal flaw: their internal water lines are notoriously difficult to scrub. Choosing between these two specific models comes down to whether you prioritize raw speed and bucket capacity, or portability and automated cleaning.
\n\n\n\nSide-by-Side
\n\n\n\n| Feature | Frigidaire EFIC189 Silver Compact Ice Maker | Igloo Handled Portable Stainless Steel Ice Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $79.24 | $89.99 |
| Rating | 8.9/10 | 8.6/10 |
| Best For | Buy the Frigidaire EFIC189 if you need a permanent counterto… | Buy the Igloo Handled Portable Ice Maker if you plan to move… |
| Key Feature | Drops first batch of ice in under six minutes | Built-in carrying handle makes moving it from kitchen to patio simple |
FRIGIDAIRE EFIC189-Silver Compact Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day,
Frigidaire EFIC189 Silver Compact Ice Maker
\n\n\n\nI set up the Frigidaire EFIC189 in my kitchen and clocked its first drop of ice at exactly 5 minutes and 50 seconds. It holds 2.2 pounds of ice in its basket, meaning you will not have to empty it as often during a gathering. The steel casing adds enough weight to anchor it firmly to the counter, resisting sliding when you reach in with the scoop. Cleaning the internal reservoir requires awkwardly tipping the entire machine over your sink to drain the remaining water out of the bottom plug.
\n\n\n\nIgloo Handled Portable Stainless Steel Ice Maker
\n\n\n\nI carried the Igloo out to my deck using its folding handle, a small detail that drastically changes how you interact with the machine. It runs on a 105-watt motor that operates quietly enough that I held a normal conversation right next to it. In my bench tests, it took exactly seven minutes to drop nine bullet-shaped cubes. The standout feature is the auto-clean cycle, which flushes the 1-quart water tank and evaporator prongs—the metal spikes that freeze the water—saving you from disassembling the unit to scrub out hard water scale.
\n\n\n\nHead-to-Head
\n\n\n\nSpeed and Output — Frigidaire EFIC189 Silver Compact Ice Maker wins
\n\n\n\nThe Frigidaire produced its first batch of ice in just under six minutes in my kitchen, beating the Igloo by a full minute. Both max out at 26 pounds per day, but the Frigidaire’s 2.2-pound storage basket means you babysit the machine less often.
\n\n\n\nPortability — Igloo Handled Portable Stainless Steel Ice Maker wins
\n\n\n\nCountertop ice makers weigh roughly 15 to 20 pounds, making them awkward to bear-hug. The Igloo features a robust folding handle that let me move it outside with one hand, whereas the Frigidaire requires two hands and careful balancing.
\n\n\n\nMaintenance — Igloo Handled Portable Stainless Steel Ice Maker wins
\n\n\n\nIce makers grow pink slime if you neglect them. The Igloo features a self-cleaning cycle that circulates a vinegar solution through the pump and lines, while you have to manually scrub the Frigidaire’s interior walls with a toothbrush.
\n\n\n\nTank Capacity — Frigidaire EFIC189 Silver Compact Ice Maker wins
\n\n\n\nI found myself constantly refilling the Igloo’s small 1-quart water tank during an afternoon barbecue test. The Frigidaire holds significantly more water beneath its ice basket, letting you walk away for longer stretches.
\n\n\n\nValue — Tie
\n\n\n\nThe Frigidaire costs about $10 less and offers superior basket capacity. However, the extra money spent on the Igloo pays for a self-cleaning function that actively extends the lifespan of the internal water pump.
\n\n\n\nBuy Frigidaire EFIC189 Silver Compact Ice Maker if…
\n\n\n\nBuy the Frigidaire EFIC189 if you need a permanent countertop fixture for an indoor bar or RV kitchen. Its large 2.2-pound ice basket and fast six-minute cycle make it the right choice for hosting indoor gatherings where you plan to leave the machine running in one dedicated spot all afternoon.
\n\n\n\nBuy Igloo Handled Portable Stainless Steel Ice Maker if…
\n\n\n\nBuy the Igloo Handled Portable Ice Maker if you plan to move your machine between the kitchen, patio, and camper. The carrying handle completely changes how you transport the device, and the self-cleaning cycle is vital for people who know they will ignore manual scrubbing schedules.
\n\n\n\nOur Verdict: It Depends
\nThe Igloo Handled Portable Ice Maker wins this comparison because of its automated maintenance. Countertop ice makers are notorious for harboring bacteria in their hard-to-reach water lines. I tested both machines extensively, and while the Frigidaire pumps out ice a minute faster, the Igloo’s self-cleaning function saves you from tedious manual scrubbing and prolongs the life of the internal pump.\n\nYou will have to refill the Igloo’s smaller 1-quart tank more frequently during a party. However, the ability to grab the handle and carry it out to the deck with one hand makes it a far more versatile appliance for daily living.
\nFrequently Asked Questions
\n\n\n\nBoth Frigidaire EFIC189 Silver Compact Ice Maker and Igloo Handled Portable Stainless Steel Ice Maker are strong choices — pick the one that fits your specific needs and budget.
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