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!

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 customisable settings. For those on a budget, the Baridi 1.2L Ice Cream Maker offers great value without compromising quality.

Not all machines made the cut. The Sensio Home Ice Cream Maker fell short with its 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!

---

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.

---

Editors Pick

Cuisinart Ice Cream and Gelato Maker

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

Key Features

• No Pre-Freezing Required: The instant freeze bowl lets you prepare back-to-back batches without waiting.
• Two Specialist Mixing Paddles: One designed for ice cream (incorporating more air for a lighter texture), and another for gelato and sorbet (producing a denser consistency).
• Flexible Texture Options: Enjoy soft-serve ice cream immediately or leave it for 10 minutes for a firmer consistency.
• 1.5L Capacity: Makes enough for multiple servings while ensuring a smooth, creamy texture.
• Sturdy Design: Heavy-duty construction that performs best when kept in a dedicated spot on the countertop.

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

The KUMIO 1.5L Ice Cream Maker 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.

Key Features

• No Pre-Freezing Required: The built-in compressor chills ingredients as they churn, producing fresh ice cream in under an hour.
• Simple LCD Display & Timer: The easy-to-use interface features four modes, an automatic timer, and a keep-cool function.
• Compact & Easy to Clean: A split design with just four removable parts ensures quick cleaning and easy storage.
• Customisable Recipes: Create a variety of frozen treats, including ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt. Add mix-ins like chocolate, nuts, or fruit for personalised flavours.
• Quiet & Stable Operation: Designed with low-noise functionality and non-slip silicone feet for a smooth and stable performance.

The KUMIO Ice Cream Maker is a fantastic option for effortless homemade frozen treats. With its 1L capacity, it’s ideal for small batches (around five cups per cycle), making just the right amount 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, this superb machine is worth considering!

Budget Pick

Baridi 1.2 Litre Ice Cream Maker

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

Key Features

• No Pre-Freezing Needed: The built-in compressor eliminates the need to pre-freeze bowls, allowing fresh ice cream anytime.
• Easy to Use: Digital controls and an LCD display make setup straightforward. The timer can be adjusted in one-minute increments.
• Efficient Cooling: The compressor maintains temperatures between -18°C and -35°C for consistently smooth results.
• Easy Cleaning: The non-stick removable bowl and detachable paddle simplify cleaning.
• Compact Design: Despite its 1.2L capacity, the unit fits well in most kitchens.

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.

Easy To Use Pick

Ninja CREAMi Deluxe Ice Cream Maker & Frozen Dessert Maker

The Ninja CREAMi Deluxe 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.

Key Features

• 10 Functions: Makes ice cream, sorbet, gelato, milkshakes, frappes, slushies, and more.
• Family-Sized Capacity: Includes three 709ml tubs, allowing for multiple flavours.
• Custom Desserts: Control ingredients to create keto, low-sugar, or vegan-friendly treats.
• Two-Flavours-in-One: The ‘Top’ and ‘Bottom’ settings let you combine flavours in a single tub.
• Easy Cleanup: Dishwasher-safe parts for quick and hassle-free maintenance.

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

The Cuisinart Solo Scoops Ice Cream Maker 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.

Key Features

• Perfect Portions: Produces up to eight scoops of ice cream, ideal for personal use or small servings.
• One-Touch Operation: Simple to use with a straightforward on/off switch. Just pre-freeze the bowl, add ingredients, and let it churn.
• Customizable Flavours: Works for ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt. Mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit while churning for unique flavours.
• Space-Saving Design: The compact 475ml bowl fits easily in most freezers. Includes a cord wrap and stackable lid for convenient storage.
• Consistent Texture: The powerful motor ensures even churning, preventing ice crystals and producing smooth, creamy results.

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

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.

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.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Worth Buying an Ice Cream Maker?

Buying an ice cream maker is worth it if you enjoy fresh, customisable frozen desserts. It allows you to control ingredients, experiment with flavours, and avoid preservatives found in store-bought options.

While it requires an initial investment, it can be a cost-effective and rewarding choice for ice cream lovers.

What Is the Lifespan of an Ice Cream Machine?

The lifespan of an ice cream machine depends on the build quality, frequency of use, and maintenance. A well-maintained machine can last anywhere from five to ten years or more. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and avoiding overfilling or overheating can help extend its longevity.

Can Homemade Ice Cream Go Bad?

Homemade ice cream can go bad if not stored properly. Without preservatives, it typically lasts up to two weeks in the freezer before ice crystals form and texture deteriorates. Keeping it in an airtight container and at a consistent freezing temperature helps maintain freshness for longer.

How Long Should I Freeze My Ice Cream Maker?

The freezing time for an ice cream maker depends on the type. Models with pre-freezer bowls typically need 12 to 24 hours in the freezer before use. Compressor-based machines do not require pre-freezing and can be used immediately after turning them on.

Is Homemade Ice Cream Healthier than Store-Bought Ones?

Homemade ice cream can be healthier than store-bought varieties because you control the ingredients. It can be made with natural sweeteners, fresh fruit, and dairy or non-dairy alternatives, avoiding artificial additives, stabilisers, and excess sugar commonly found in commercial ice cream.

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.

---

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, convenience, 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 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!