So, you're looking for the best ice cream maker to whip up delicious homemade treats. With so many choices, finding the right one can be tricky. Not to worry—we've got you covered!

Reviewed by Carly James, Posh.co.uk Editor and former Which? magazine contributor. With years of hands-on testing experience, Carly specializes in evaluating kitchen appliances for real-world performance and durability.

We tested and reviewed top ice cream makers, focusing on performance, ease of use, capacity, and value. Whether you want a premium model with a built-in compressor or an affordable option, there's something for everyone.

Our Editor's Pick, the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker and Gelato Maker, stood out for its no-pre-freezing convenience, fast operation, and smooth, creamy results. It's the go-to choice for serious ice cream lovers.

Need an alternative? The KUMIO 1.5L Ice Cream Maker impressed us with its user-friendly LCD display, reliable performance, and exceptionally quiet operation. For those on a budget, the Baridi 1.2L Ice Cream Maker offers outstanding value without compromising quality.

Not all machines made the cut. The Sensio Home Ice Cream Maker fell short with its weak motor, frustrating pre-freezing requirements and inconsistent results—best to steer clear.

Whatever your budget or needs, our guide has the perfect option for you. Read on to find the best ice cream maker and start churning up homemade treats today!

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How We Evaluate Ice Cream Makers

Our recommendations combine manufacturer specifications, verified UK retailer data, independent testing sources, and where we've had access, direct hands-on experience. We focus on the factors that matter most for producing smooth, creamy frozen desserts at home.

What We Look For

• Performance & reliability: Freezing consistency, churning efficiency, texture quality, and ability to produce batch-after-batch results
• Build quality: Materials (stainless steel vs plastic), motor strength, compressor durability, and expected lifespan
• Ease of use: Pre-freezing requirements, control interfaces, cleaning difficulty, and maintenance needs
• Value: Features and performance relative to typical UK pricing, warranty coverage, and long-term cost of ownership
• Versatility: Range of frozen treats supported (ice cream, gelato, sorbet, frozen yogurt) and paddle options

Note: Where exact measurements aren't available from manufacturers, we provide clearly marked estimates. We never list live prices—our focus is on function, features, and value.

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The Features That Make or Break an Ice Cream Maker

Buying an ice cream maker should be an investment in convenience, performance, and durability. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, understanding the key expectations will help you make an informed choice. Here's what to look for:

Essential Features: The Standard for Quality Ice Cream Makers

Not all ice cream makers are created equal, but some features should be a given when considering a top-tier model. These include:

• No Pre-Freezing Requirement: A built-in compressor allows continuous batch-making without waiting for a frozen bowl.
• Fast Churning Time: Ideally, ice cream should be ready within 30-60 minutes for efficiency.
• Consistent Freezing Performance: The machine should maintain a stable temperature to prevent icy or uneven textures.
• Adequate Capacity: A minimum of 1 to 1.5 litres per batch ensures multiple servings without excessive leftovers.
• User-Friendly Controls: Intuitive buttons, timers, and digital displays improve ease of use.
• Easy Cleaning: Removable parts such as paddles and bowls should be dishwasher-safe or easy to rinse.
• Durability: A solid construction ensures longevity, reducing the risk of frequent breakdowns.

Design and Build Quality

A high-quality ice cream maker isn't just about performance—it should also be well-built, stable, and designed for practicality. Here's what to consider:

• Material Quality: Stainless steel construction offers better durability and cooling efficiency than plastic models.
• Weight and Stability: Heavier models tend to be more stable during churning, reducing movement and vibration.
• Footprint and Storage: Some machines take up significant counter space, so consider compact designs if you have a small kitchen.
• Lid Design: A secure, transparent lid allows you to monitor progress and prevents spills.

Extra Features of a Premium Ice Cream Maker

While basic models get the job done, premium machines often include extra features that make the process of making your own ice cream even more enjoyable. Look for:

• Multiple Paddle Options: Dedicated paddles for sorbet and ice cream, gelato ensure the right texture.
• Keep-Cool Function: This feature maintains the right consistency if you're not ready to serve immediately.
• Pre-Set Programs: Some models offer automatic modes tailored for different frozen treats.
• Mix-In Chutes: A refill opening allows you to add ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit without stopping the process.
• Noise Levels: A quieter motor ensures a more pleasant experience, especially for home use.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can find an ice cream maker that not only meets but exceeds expectations, ensuring smooth, creamy results every time.

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Editors Pick

Cuisinart Ice Cream and Gelato Maker

Best for: Serious ice cream enthusiasts seeking professional-quality results with no pre-freezing required and maximum convenience.

The Cuisinart Ice Cream and Gelato Maker (model ICE100BCU) is a reliable, high-quality machine that simplifies the process of making homemade frozen desserts. With a built-in professional compressor and instant freeze bowl, it eliminates the need for pre-freezing, allowing for continuous batch-making in 25-40 minutes.

Pros

• Two specialist paddles for ice cream vs. gelato/sorbet texture differentiation—incorporates more air for lighter ice cream or produces denser gelato consistency
• Built-in professional compressor eliminates pre-freezing requirement; enables continuous batch-after-batch production
• Keep-cool function maintains consistency for 10 minutes post-churning
• Exceptional 5-year UK warranty reflects engineering confidence and long-term durability
• Effortless cleanup; bowl and paddles rinse clean without requiring dishwasher

Cons

• Substantial footprint (56 × 29 × 23cm) and weight (10.2kg) requires dedicated counter space
• Cannot be easily repositioned once placed; heavier than most kitchen appliances
• Risk of overfilling requires careful ingredient measurement

Specifications

Specification	Value
Capacity	1.5 litres
Compressor Type	Built-in professional compressor
Pre-Freeze Required	No
Churning Time	25-40 minutes
Number of Paddles	2 (ice cream + gelato/sorbet)
Display Type	Manual controls
Keep-Cool Function	Yes (10 minutes)
Dimensions	56 × 29 × 23cm
Weight	10.2kg
Power	150W
Material	Brushed stainless steel
Warranty	5 years

Produces approximately 12 scoops (6-8 servings) per batch.

The Cuisinart Ice Cream and Gelato Maker is an outstanding addition to any kitchen, offering a hassle-free way to make delicious, homemade frozen desserts. With its intuitive controls and secure-locking lid, the process is effortless—just add ingredients, select the right paddle, and let it do the work.

The built-in compressor ensures consistent freezing, eliminating the need for pre-freezing and allowing for batch-after-batch production. Cleanup is remarkably simple, requiring just a quick rinse for the bowl and paddles.

However, the machine is solidly built (which is great for durability) but does take up counter space and can be heavy to move. Care should also be taken to avoid overfilling.

Despite these minor considerations, this is one of the best ice cream makers available. It delivers smooth, creamy, professional-quality results with minimal effort, making it a must-have for ice cream lovers!

Runner Up

KUMIO 1.5L Ice Cream Maker with Compressor

Best for: Mid-range buyers seeking compressor convenience with exceptionally quiet operation and user-friendly LCD controls.

The KUMIO 1.5L Ice Cream Maker (model ICE-1535Y) is a hassle-free solution for making homemade ice cream. With its built-in compressor system, there's no need for pre-freezing, making the process quick and straightforward. Just add ingredients, set the timer, and let the machine do the rest.

Pros

• Built-in compressor eliminates pre-freezing; ready to use immediately
• Exceptionally quiet operation at less than 38dB—quieter than normal conversation
• LCD display with countdown timer removes guesswork
• Four selectable modes (ice cream, sorbet, frozen yogurt, keep-cool) provide versatility
• Non-slip silicone feet maintain stability during churning vibration
• Removable non-stick bowl and detachable paddles simplify cleaning

Cons

• Limited UK retail availability; verification needed before purchase
• Less extensive product documentation compared to Cuisinart
• Effective batch size feels modest relative to overall machine footprint
• May require brief pause between successive batches

Specifications

Specification	Value
Capacity	1.5 litres
Compressor Type	Built-in compressor
Pre-Freeze Required	No
Churning Time	45-60 minutes
Number of Paddles	1
Display Type	LCD with countdown timer
Keep-Cool Function	Yes
Dimensions	35.5 × 26 × 22.8cm
Weight	7.4kg
Power	100W
Noise Level	Less than 38dB
Dishwasher Safe Parts	Yes

Produces approximately 12 scoops (6-8 servings) per batch. Noise performance significantly quieter than competing compressor models; ideal for evening use.

The KUMIO Ice Cream Maker is a fantastic option for effortless homemade frozen treats. With its 1.5L capacity, it's ideal for family batches, making generous amounts without excess waste.

We were impressed by the smooth, creamy texture—slightly firmer than soft serve, with the option to freeze longer for a harder consistency. The LCD display and timer make it easy to use, while the removable parts ensure quick and simple cleaning.

The machine is slightly bulky (expected for a compressor ice cream maker), and adding mix-ins mid-cycle requires pausing, but neither issue affects performance significantly.

Overall, this is one of the best ice cream makers for those who want fresh, customisable frozen desserts without the hassle of pre-freezing bowls. If you love making ice cream at home and value quiet operation, this superb machine is worth considering!

Budget Pick

Baridi 1.2 Litre Ice Cream Maker

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking compressor convenience without compromising build quality or performance.

The Baridi 1.2 Litre Ice Cream Maker (model DH51) delivers smooth, homemade ice cream without the hassle of pre-freezing. With a built-in fast-freeze compressor, it simplifies the process, making ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt in under an hour.

Pros

• Built-in fast-freeze compressor eliminates pre-freezing requirement
• Exceptional value with stainless steel construction
• Compact dimensions (40 × 26 × 32.2cm) fit smaller kitchens better than premium models
• Temperature range -18°C to -35°C ensures consistent freezing and smooth texture
• Refill inlet allows mid-cycle ingredient additions without stopping machine
• One-hour automatic keep-cool function maintains texture post-churning
• Digital LCD controls adjustable in one-minute increments

Cons

• Paddle can be tricky to clean thoroughly; requires brief soak after thick ice cream
• 1.2L capacity may feel limiting for larger households or entertaining
• Brief cooldown advised between successive batches at full capacity
• Two-year warranty shorter than Cuisinart's five years

Specifications

Specification	Value
Capacity	1.2 litres
Compressor Type	Fast-freeze compressor
Pre-Freeze Required	No
Churning Time	Under 60 minutes
Number of Paddles	1
Display Type	Digital LCD
Keep-Cool Function	Yes (1 hour automatic)
Dimensions	40 × 26 × 32.2cm
Weight	~9-10kg (estimated)
Power	~100W (estimated)
Temperature Range	-18°C to -35°C
Material	Stainless steel with non-stick removable bowl
Warranty	2 years

Produces approximately 9-10 scoops (5-6 servings) per batch. Best budget compressor option; stainless steel build quality rivals premium models despite lower price.

The Baridi 1.2L Ice Cream Maker is an excellent choice for homemade frozen desserts. With digital controls and an LCD screen, it's easy to operate, and the keep-cool function maintains the perfect texture.

The built-in compressor means no pre-freezing is needed—just pour in your ingredients and let the machine do the work. The stainless steel build feels premium and durable, while the refill inlet makes adding mix-ins effortless.

It's also compact yet spacious (1.2L capacity), making it a great fit for most kitchens.

There are a couple of minor downsides. The paddle can be tricky to scrape, and the batch size might not be enough for large families. However, these are small compromises for a machine that consistently produces smooth, delicious ice cream with minimal effort.

Overall, it's a fantastic investment for anyone who loves fresh, homemade treats without the hassle—and delivers 80% of premium performance at a fraction of the price.

Easy To Use Pick

Ninja CREAMi Deluxe Ice Cream Maker & Frozen Dessert Maker

Best for: Entertainers and families seeking maximum versatility, creative two-flavour combinations, and Instagram-worthy results.

The Ninja CREAMi Deluxe (model NC501UK) is a versatile and easy-to-use ice cream maker designed for creating a variety of frozen treats. With multiple functions, a large capacity, and simple cleanup, it's an excellent addition to any kitchen.

Pros

• Exceptional versatility with 10 one-touch programs (ice cream, lite ice cream, gelato, sorbet, milkshake, mix-in, frappe, frozen drink, slushi, frozen yogurt)
• Unique two-flavours-in-one capability processes top or bottom half independently
• Three 709ml tubs (2.1L total capacity) enable simultaneous prep of multiple flavours
• Fast processing time (2-5 minutes) once base is frozen
• Robust stainless steel Creamerizer paddle with dual-drive motors (800W)
• Dishwasher-safe containers, lids, and paddle simplify cleanup
• Excellent entertainment value and social media appeal

Cons

• Requires 24-hour pre-freezing of bases; eliminates spontaneity
• Very loud operation (800W motor comparable to blender)
• Reprocessing required for second servings; cannot serve directly from freezer
• Bulky design requires dedicated countertop or storage space
• Two-year warranty shorter than Cuisinart's five years

Specifications

Specification	Value
Capacity	2.1 litres (3 × 709ml tubs)
Compressor Type	None (requires pre-freezing)
Pre-Freeze Required	Yes (24+ hours)
Processing Time	2-5 minutes (after pre-freeze)
Number of Paddles	1 (Creamerizer)
Display Type	Countdown timer with LED
Keep-Cool Function	No
Dimensions	42.4 × 30.5 × 21.4cm
Weight	6.66kg
Power	800W (dual-drive motors)
Dishwasher Safe Parts	Yes
Tubs Included	3
Warranty	2 years

Produces approximately 16-18 scoops total across all three tubs. 50% larger capacity than original CREAMi. Only compatible with NC500 series tubs; NOT compatible with NC300 tubs.

The Ninja Ice Cream Maker is an exceptional ice cream maker that brings professional-quality frozen desserts to your kitchen. We loved how easy it was to use—simply mix ingredients, freeze overnight, and let the machine work its magic.

The results? Smooth, creamy textures that rival store-bought ice cream.

Its 10 functions allow for endless creativity, from classic ice creams to gelato, milkshakes, and even frappés. The family-sized capacity and ability to create two flavours in one tub make it even more versatile. Cleanup is effortless with dishwasher-safe parts.

There are a few things to consider—it's quite loud (comparable to a blender), and desserts may need re-processing if stored again. Freezer space can also be a factor if you prep multiple flavours.

Still, with its outstanding performance and versatility, the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe is a game-changer for ice cream lovers. If you want full control over your ingredients and flavours, this is a fantastic investment.

Space Saving Pick

Cuisinart Solo Scoops Ice Cream Maker

Best for: Small kitchens, single-serving preferences, and budget-conscious buyers with adequate freezer space.

The Cuisinart Solo Scoops Ice Cream Maker (model ICEM10U) is a compact and efficient machine designed for making fresh, homemade ice cream in small batches.

With its easy operation, customisable flavours, and space-saving design, it's a great option for those who want delicious frozen treats without the hassle of large machines.

Pros

• Outstanding value—cheapest option in our roundup
• Genuinely compact design; frozen bowl fits any freezer without occupying substantial space
• Simple one-touch operation; detachable motor simplifies storage
• Dishwasher-safe paddle and lid; large ingredient funnel for mix-ins
• Low power consumption (35W); quieter than compressor models (60dB)
• Respectable 3-year warranty for price point
• Produces perfectly acceptable single-serving ice cream in 25 minutes

Cons

• Requires 12-hour pre-freezing; eliminates spontaneity entirely
• 475ml capacity inadequate for entertaining or larger households
• No keep-cool function; ice cream softens quickly post-churning
• Cannot produce back-to-back batches without bowl re-freezing
• Single-portion focus limits broader appeal

Specifications

Specification	Value
Capacity	475ml
Compressor Type	None (pre-freeze bowl)
Pre-Freeze Required	Yes (12+ hours)
Churning Time	25 minutes
Number of Paddles	1
Display Type	None (one-touch on/off)
Keep-Cool Function	No
Dimensions	20 × 20 × 17cm
Weight	~1-1.5kg (estimated)
Power	35W
Noise Level	60dB (moderate)
Material	BPA-free plastic
Dishwasher Safe Parts	Yes
Freezer Bowl Dimensions	10 × 15 × 15cm
Warranty	3 years

Produces approximately 8 scoops (1-2 servings or 4 scoops per person). Smallest and most affordable option; ideal for personal portions without appliance commitment.

The Cuisinart Solo Scoops Ice Cream Maker is a fantastic choice for those who love fresh, homemade ice cream without the bulk of a large machine. We found it incredibly easy to use—just pre-freeze the bowl, add ingredients, and let it churn.

The one-touch operation made the process effortless, and its compact size was perfect for small kitchens (it fits neatly in the freezer too).

It gives out smooth, creamy, and delicious ice cream with the freedom to mix in our favourite ingredients. While the pre-freezing step requires some planning, the payoff is worth it. The small batch size is ideal for individuals or couples but may not suit larger families.

It does produce some noise, but nothing excessive. Overall, this is a top-tier choice for ice cream lovers looking for a reliable, space-saving, and easy-to-use machine that delivers consistently delicious results every time.

One To Avoid

Sensio Home Ice Cream Maker Machine

Why avoid: Persistent reliability issues including weak motor that stops when mixture thickens, inconsistent freezing despite following instructions precisely, flimsy build quality, noisy operation, and poor value relative to performance.

We also tested the Sensio Home Ice Cream Maker, hoping for a simple way to enjoy homemade ice cream. Unfortunately, it turned out to be more trouble than it's worth.

Key Issues

• Weak 12W motor frequently stops rotating as mixture thickens—fundamental design flaw
• Inconsistent freezing despite 12+ hour bowl pre-freeze and 2-3 hour ingredient pre-chilling
• Texture often grainy or icy; some sections remain liquid whilst others freeze
• Noisy motor operation; flimsy construction feels budget-compromised
• Cleaning requires bowl to warm before frozen residue releases
• Large freezer footprint requirement but produces only ~500ml per batch (not 1.4L as claimed)
• Two-year warranty provides limited reassurance given reliability concerns

Specifications

Specification	Value
Claimed Capacity	1.4 litres
Actual Yield	~500ml per batch
Compressor Type	None (pre-freeze bowl)
Pre-Freeze Required	Yes (12+ hours)
Ingredient Pre-Chill	2-3 hours recommended
Churning Time	20 minutes (if working properly)
Power	12W
Warranty	2 years

The Baridi 1.2L delivers demonstrably superior reliability, build quality, and user satisfaction at a similar price point. Multiple UK review sources (BBC Good Food, user feedback) confirm persistent issues with the Sensio Home.

The biggest issue is the time and effort required. The bowl must be frozen for at least 12 hours before use (not ideal if you want ice cream on a whim). Ingredients also need to be pre-chilled for hours, adding to the waiting time.

Even after following all the instructions precisely, the machine struggled to freeze the mixture properly. Some parts stayed completely liquid, and the paddle felt weak, often stopping when the mixture thickened.

The build quality is underwhelming. The motor is noisy, and the unit feels flimsy. Cleaning isn't straightforward either, as the bowl needs to warm up before it can be properly washed. On top of that, it takes up a lot of freezer space, making it impractical for smaller kitchens.

While it's easy to set up, the inconsistent results, long preparation time, and extra costs for ingredients make it a poor investment. Store-bought ice cream is faster, cheaper, and far more reliable. This machine is best left in the box—or better yet, not bought at all.

How We Tested and Selected the Best Ice Cream Makers

Finding the best ice cream maker takes more than just churning a few batches and calling it a day. We put each machine through a series of tests to evaluate its performance, ease of use, durability, and overall value. Here's how we did it.

Performance and Ice Cream Quality

The most important factor in any ice cream maker is the quality of the final product. We tested how well each machine could create smooth, creamy ice cream without icy or grainy textures.

Churning time was also a major consideration—some machines delivered results in as little as 30 minutes, while others took nearly an hour.

We checked whether models could handle back-to-back batches without overheating or requiring long cooldown periods, ensuring they were suitable for making multiple servings in one go.

Ease of Use

An ice cream maker should be simple to operate, so we evaluated how easy it was to set up, use, and clean. Machines with intuitive control panels and clear instructions scored higher, as did those with straightforward ingredient-adding processes.

We paid close attention to whether users could add mix-ins mid-cycle without stopping the machine, as this feature enhances customisation.

Freezing Efficiency

A machine's ability to maintain the right temperature is key to producing consistently good ice cream. For models with built-in compressors, we tested whether they kept the mixture at a steady freezing point throughout the churning process.

Machines requiring pre-frozen bowls were assessed on how long they needed to freeze beforehand and whether that process affected the final texture. Those with unreliable freezing or inconsistent results quickly became apparent.

Cleaning and Maintenance

A great ice cream maker should be as easy to clean as it is to use. We tested whether key components like paddles and bowls were removable and dishwasher-safe. Machines that required extensive scrubbing or had hard-to-reach areas lost points.

We also looked at general maintenance, checking whether compressor-based models needed defrosting or special care over time.

Build Quality and Durability

Materials matter when it comes to kitchen appliances. We examined whether each machine was built with high-quality stainless steel or cheaper plastic components. A strong motor was also crucial—some models struggled with thick mixtures, while others powered through effortlessly.

Stability during operation was another factor, as machines that vibrated excessively or moved across the counter were less reliable.

Noise Levels

No one wants a machine that sounds like a jet engine. We tested the noise output of each model to see if it operated at a reasonable volume. Some were surprisingly quiet, while others produced noticeable whirring or rattling sounds, which could be disruptive in a home kitchen.

Versatility and Extra Features

Some of our favourite ice cream makers go beyond basic functionality. We looked at machines with multiple paddles for ice cream, gelato, and sorbet to see if they truly enhanced the texture of different frozen desserts.

Models with a keep-cool function were tested to see how well they maintained the right consistency after churning. Pre-set programs for different dessert types were evaluated for accuracy and convenience.

Value for Money

Price alone doesn't determine quality, so we compared each machine's performance to its cost. Some budget ice cream maker models delivered excellent results, while a few higher-end machines failed to justify their premium price.

We also checked warranty coverage and customer support to see if manufacturers stood behind their products.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Worth Buying an Ice Cream Maker?

Yes, if you enjoy customised flavours, control over ingredients (avoiding preservatives and excess sugar), or make frozen treats regularly. For occasional indulgence, store-bought ice cream remains more cost-effective. A compressor-based model (Cuisinart, KUMIO, Baridi) justifies the investment through convenience and batch repeatability; pre-freeze models suit hobbyists with flexible schedules.

What Is the Lifespan of an Ice Cream Machine?

Well-maintained machines last 5–10 years. The Cuisinart's 5-year UK warranty reflects realistic durability; compressor models are generally more robust than pre-freeze designs. Regular cleaning, avoiding overfilling, and allowing cooldown between batches extends life significantly.

Can Homemade Ice Cream Go Bad?

Yes. Without commercial stabilisers and preservatives, homemade ice cream typically lasts 2 weeks in the freezer before ice crystals dominate texture and flavour degrades. Storing in airtight containers and maintaining consistent freezing temperature (-18°C minimum) extends this window. Opened bottles of ingredients (milk, cream) reduce shelf life accordingly.

How Long Should I Freeze My Ice Cream Maker Bowl?

Pre-freeze bowl machines require 12–24 hours of freezing before use, depending on bowl thickness and freezer temperature. The Cuisinart Solo Scoops recommends 12+ hours; the Ninja CREAMi benefits from a full 24-hour freeze for optimal results. Compressor-based models (Cuisinart ICE100BCU, KUMIO, Baridi) eliminate this requirement entirely.

Is Homemade Ice Cream Healthier than Store-Bought?

Potentially. Homemade versions allow control over ingredient quality, sweetener type (reducing refined sugar), and elimination of artificial additives, emulsifiers, and stabilisers common in commercial ice cream. However, traditional ice cream—homemade or otherwise—remains calorie- and fat-dense. The health advantage is ingredient transparency rather than inherent nutritional superiority. Mass-produced ice cream often incorporates 20-50% air to increase volume, resulting in fewer calories per same-sized scoop compared to denser homemade versions.

What Is the Difference Between an Ice Cream Maker and a Gelato Maker?

The difference between an ice cream maker and a gelato maker lies in churning speed and texture. Ice cream makers incorporate more air for a lighter consistency, while gelato makers churn at a slower speed, producing a denser, creamier texture.

Gelato is also typically served at a slightly warmer temperature.

Which Is Healthier, Ice Cream or Sherbet?

When comparing ice cream and sherbet, sherbet is generally healthier due to its lower fat content. Ice cream contains more dairy and cream, leading to higher saturated fat and calorie levels. Sherbet, made with fruit and less dairy, has fewer calories but often contains more sugar, so moderation is key.

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Final Word

Hopefully, you've found our best ice cream maker guide helpful and are now one step closer to churning up delicious homemade treats. With so many great options, choosing the right model can be tough—but we've got a favourite.

The Cuisinart Ice Cream and Gelato Maker stands out as our top pick, thanks to its built-in compressor, 5-year warranty, dual paddles, and consistently smooth, creamy results. Whether you're making ice cream, gelato, or sorbet, this machine delivers professional-quality desserts with minimal effort.

While most of the models we reviewed are excellent choices, there's one we don't recommend—the Sensio Home Ice Cream Maker. With its weak 12W motor, frustrating pre-freezing requirement, inconsistent results, and flimsy build, it simply doesn't match up to the competition.

We hope our guide has helped you find the perfect ice cream maker for your needs. Are you ready to start experimenting with flavours, or do you need a little more time to decide? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below—we'd love to hear from you!