NewAir Countertop Ice Maker
Score: 68/100
Frigidaire EFIC452
Score: 79/100Rankings
The Frigidaire EFIC452-SSRED XL Maker is a countertop unit delivering up to 40 lb of clear square ice per day with fast cycles and quiet operation. Its need for regular water refills and sizable footprint are the main compromises. Best for frequent ice users such as home bars or outdoor workers who value output over hands-free water supply.
The NewAir AI-215SS is a portable countertop bullet-ice maker delivering 50 lb (22.7 kg) of ice daily with multiple size options and self-cleaning. Its lack of built-in storage and the need for a pre-heat period limit continuous operation. Ideal for parties, RVs or small gatherings where portability outweighs continuous ice availability.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
22.68 kg/daybest | 18.1 kg/day | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 37.5 secondsbest |
42.5 cmbest | 38.1 cm | |
35.6 cmbest | 27.9 cm | |
42.9 cmbest | 35.6 cm | |
| ↓ lower better | 14.5 kgbest | — |
— | 2.18 Lbest | |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(1) | ||
Ice Production Capacity (kg/day) | 22.68 kg/day | 18.1 kg/day |
Controls(1) | ||
Control Panel Type | LCD | LED |
Features(1) | ||
Ice Type | Bullet | Square |
Design & Dimensions(4) | ||
Height (cm) | 42.5 cm | 38.1 cm |
Width (cm) | 35.6 cm | 27.9 cm |
Depth (cm) | 42.9 cm | 35.6 cm |
Installation Type | Freestanding | Countertop |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers and editors consistently praise the AI-215SS for its high 50 lb/day output, multiple ice size options, and convenience features such as self-cleaning and BPA-free construction. They highlight the rapid cycle times and compact countertop design, while noting drawbacks like the lack of built-in storage, the required pre-heat period before first use, and the absence of Energy Star certification.
Everyday users commend the unit for reliably meeting the ice demands of families and small events, appreciating its portability, quick ice batches, and easy handling. Recurring concerns focus on the power draw during harvest, the need for a pre-heat period before first use, and the cloudy, hollow appearance of the bullet ice.
“Reliable for families/events (50 lbs/day) suffices for most.”
“Needs 2-hour preheat before first batch, which can be a hassle for off-grid use.”
“I'm in love”
Choose Frigidaire for maximum daily ice production; choose NewAir if countertop space is at a premium.
Professional demos praise the EFIC452-SSRED for its rapid 24-cube, sub-15-minute cycle, high 40-lb daily output, and quiet, energy-efficient compressor.
Everyday users consistently highlight the plentiful, fast-producing clear ice that eliminates frequent store trips, while also valuing the quiet operation.
