Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Ice Cream Makers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Top Pick
- 2. Best Splurge
- 3. Best for Beginners
- 4. Best Heavy-Duty
- 5. Best Lightweight
- 6. Best for Small Spaces
- 7. Best for Daily Use
- 8. Best Design
- Ice Cream Makers Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- What to look for
- How to Choose Ice Cream Makers
- Frequently asked questions
The choice between ice cream makers can be tough. The top pick is the Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker. It offers a 4-quart capacity, allowing you to create large batches quickly. For a value option, consider the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine. It has a smaller 1.5-quart capacity, so you will have to make ice cream more often to keep up with larger gatherings.
Paid links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and change often. How this works
The Top 8
Top 8 Ice Cream Makers Reviewed in Detail
Here are eight ice cream makers to help you decide which is best.
1. Top Pick
Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker With 4 Qt Capacity- Old Fashioned Ice Cream Machine Makes Frozen Yogurt or Gelato in Minutes- Vintage Wooden Style Ice…
- Effortless Ice Cream in Minutes: Say goodbye to the hassle of manual churning and hello to the convenience of this ice cream maker. With our powerful electric ice cream maker machine, you’ll have up to 4 quarts of rich, creamy ice cream ready in no time. Whether you’re craving a classic treat or a soft serve indulgence, this ice cream maker machine takes the work out of the process, leaving you with delicious, homemade ice cream in minutes-perfect for family fun or last-minute gatherings.
- Endless Frozen Dessert Possibilities: Why settle for one flavor when you can make it all? This homemade ice cream maker opens up a world of frozen dessert options. From indulgent gelato made with the gelato maker feature to smooth frozen yogurt, this ice cream machine lets you enjoy a wide variety of frozen treats right in your own kitchen. Forget overpriced store-bought options-create unique, creamy desserts exactly how you like them, every time.
- Fun for Kids and Family: Want to turn dessert into a fun, family bonding experience? This ice cream maker for kids is the answer! The soft serve ice cream maker is safe, simple, and designed for young hands, so your kids can make their own delicious ice cream in no time. Whether it’s a birthday, a playdate, or just a fun afternoon, this old-fashioned ice cream adds excitement to the process of creating soft-serve treats, making it the perfect way to engage kids and make family time even sweeter.
- Classic Design Meets Modern Convenience: Love the vintage charm of an old-fashioned ice cream maker but hate the old-school effort? This vintage wooden style ice cream machine combines nostalgic appeal with modern efficiency. Powered by an electric ice cream maker, it makes rich, creamy soft serve or traditional ice cream without the tedious labor. Get the best of both worlds-timeless design and hassle-free operation, so you can enjoy delicious homemade ice cream in no time.
The Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker is designed for ease and speed. It can produce up to 4 quarts of ice cream in minutes, making it perfect for parties. The vintage wooden style adds charm to your kitchen. Compared to the Cuisinart models, which have smaller capacities, this machine stands out with its larger output. A possible downside to this model is that it may take up more counter space due to its size. However, if you often host gatherings, this tradeoff is worth considering.
Pros
- 4-quart capacity for large batches
- Quick preparation time
- Charming vintage design
- Suitable for various frozen treats
Cons
- Takes more counter space
- Could be heavy when full
- Not as easy to clean as some competitors
Best for: Large families and gatherings. Not ideal for: Small kitchens or limited storage.
The Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker is perfect for those who want to make large amounts of ice cream quickly.
2. Best Splurge
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, Ready in 20, 1.5 qt Freezer Bowl
- SUPERIOR FUNCTION: Mixing paddle makes frozen treats in 20 minutes or less (freezer bowl must be pre-frozen).
- COOL FEATURE: Double-insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice.
- CAPACITY: This ice cream maker can produce up to 1.5 quarts of your favorite ice cream or frozen yogurt.
- EASY TO USE: Ice cream machine features an easy-lock transparent lid with large spout to make adding ingredients simple and mess free.
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: The BPA-free Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine comes with a limited 3-year warranty.
The Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine excels in functionality and ease of use. It can make up to 1.5 quarts of ice cream in just 20 minutes. The double-insulated freezer bowl removes the need for ice, simplifying the process. Compared to the Nostalgia model, it takes up less space, making it a great option for small kitchens. However, if you’re looking for larger batches, you may find the capacity limiting. It’s perfect for smaller families or casual ice cream makers.
Pros
- 1.5-quart capacity for smaller batches
- Makes ice cream in 20 minutes
- Double-insulated freezer bowl
- Compact design for easy storage
Cons
- Limited capacity for larger gatherings
- Requires pre-freezing the bowl
- Less versatile than larger models
Best for: Small families and casual users. Not ideal for: Large gatherings or frequent use.
The Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker is a reliable choice for quick and tasty small batches.
3. Best for Beginners
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, Fully Automatic, 2 qt, ICE-30BCP1ES
- DOUBLE-INSULATED FREEZER BOWL: Holds 2 qts of ice cream, yogurt, sorbet, sherbet, or frozen drinks (pre-freeze first).
- SUPERIOR FUNCTIONALITY: The brushed stainless steel ice cream machine features a fully automatic heavy-duty motor to make frozen desserts or drinks in under 30 minutes.
- MUST-HAVE FEATURES: Large ingredient spout for easily adding favorite mix-ins, including retractable cord storage that keeps countertops clutter-free.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Frozen yogurt machine comes with a double-insulated freezer bowl that holds up to 2 quarts of frozen dessert, and paddle.
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: The BPA-free Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine ICE30BCP1 comes with a limited 3-year warranty.
The Cuisinart Fully Automatic Ice Cream Maker is built for convenience. It can hold 2 quarts of ice cream and has an automatic motor. This means it does most of the work for you, creating treats in under 30 minutes. Compared to the 1.5-quart Cuisinart model, this one offers more capacity without taking up much extra space. However, it still requires pre-freezing the bowl, which could be a hassle for some users. It offers a good balance between size and function.
Pros
- 2-quart capacity for more servings
- Fully automatic operation
- Brushed stainless steel design
- Creates frozen desserts in under 30 minutes
Cons
- Requires pre-freezing the bowl
- Takes up some counter space
- May not be as user-friendly for beginners
Best for: Users seeking automatic operation. Not ideal for: Beginners who prefer simpler machines.
The Cuisinart Fully Automatic Ice Cream Maker is great for those wanting a bit more capacity and convenience.
4. Best Heavy-Duty
Ninja® CREAMi® 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker, Ice Cream, Gelato & more, NC299AMZ
- 7-IN-1 ICE CREAM MAKER — A FROZEN TREAT FOR EVERY CRAVING: Choose from 7 one-touch programs — Ice Cream, Gelato, Sorbet, Milkshake, Smoothie Bowl, Lite Ice Cream, and Mix-In –each delivering the perfect combination of speed, pressure, and time for soft, creamy results.
- CREAMIFY TECHNOLOGY — INCREDIBLY SMOOTH, CREAMY RESULTS: Ninja’s exclusive Creamify Technology finely shaves through a uniformly frozen pint, transforming it into smooth textured frozen desserts in minutes.
- MAKE IT YOUR WAY — TOTAL INGREDIENT CONTROL: Create protein-packed ice cream, low-sugar sorbet, dairy-free treats, and vegan options — all from scratch with ingredients you choose. No preservatives, no fillers, just the flavors you love.
- MIX-INS — BUILD YOUR PERFECT PINT: After processing, mix in your favorite mix-ins – chocolate chips, candy, nuts, fruit, cookies, and more — to customize every scoop. The Mix-In program distributes add-ins evenly throughout your frozen treat.
- THREE STEPS TO YOUR PERFECT FROZEN TREAT: Prep your base, freeze for 24 hours, and process in minutes. The Re-spin function lets you process a second time for an even softer, creamier texture — no guesswork.
- EASY TO CLEAN — DISHWASHER SAFE: The pint containers, storage lids, and Creamerizer Paddle are all top-rack dishwasher safe for fast, hassle-free cleanup after every treat.
- PINT COMPATIBILITY — IMPORTANT: This unit is compatible with Ninja CREAMi NC299 andNC300 series pint accessories only. It is NOT compatible with NC100, NC200, NC500 or NC700 series pints. To confirm your unit, check the SKU number on the bottom of your machine.
- FAMILY-FRIENDLY & EASY TO USE: One-touch programs makes it easy for everyone to enjoy the fun of homemade frozen desserts
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Motor Base with 7 One-Touch Programs, (1) 16-oz. CREAMi Pint with Storage Lid, Creamerizer Paddle, and Outer Bowl with Lid. | 800W | 120V / 60Hz. Recipe guide Included
The Ninja CREAMi 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker offers versatility with seven different programs. It can create ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and more. This model stands out with its unique CREAMIFY technology that ensures creamy results. Compared to the Cuisinart options, it provides more variety, but it can be more complicated to use. The trade-off here is that while you have many options, it may take longer to learn how to use it effectively. It’s perfect for adventurous cooks willing to experiment with different frozen treats.
Pros
- Seven one-touch programs for different treats
- CREAMIFY technology for smooth results
- Versatile for various recipes
- User-friendly with one-touch operation
Cons
- Learning curve for new users
- Takes longer to make some treats
- Requires more storage space
Best for: Adventurous ice cream makers. Not ideal for: Those who want straightforward operation.
The Ninja CREAMi is ideal for those who want to explore different frozen treat options.
5. Best Lightweight
Elite Gourmet EIM1750 Self-Churning Electric 1Qt. Ice Cream Maker, Homemade Ice Cream, Gelato, Sorbet & Frozen Yogurt in Under 20 Minutes, No Ice or Salt…
- QUICK & EASY HOMEMADE TREATS: Make creamy homemade ice cream, gelato, sorbet, or frozen yogurt in under 20 minutes. The pre-freeze bowl design means no rock salt, no buying ice every time, and no salty cleanup, just freeze the bowl ahead, pour in your chilled mixture, and press start.
- PERFECT 1-QUART FAMILY SIZE: A 24-ounce batch makes approximately four generous servings ideal for family dessert nights, weekend BBQs, birthday parties, picnics, and after-dinner cravings. Big enough to share, compact enough to fit on any countertop or store in a pantry between uses.
- PERFECT SIZE FOR TWO TO FOUR: The 1-quart freezer bowl yields up to 3 cups of freshly churned ice cream per batch, just right for couples, small families, or satisfying that late-night craving without making too much. Compact enough to live on any countertop and store easily in a cabinet or pantry between uses, with a freezer bowl that stays ready in your freezer for whenever the next craving hits.
- 4 FROZEN TREATS, 1 MACHINE: One countertop appliance churns out ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt from your favorite fresh ingredients. The included recipe book features 25+ tested recipes, vanilla, chocolate, mint chocolate chip, strawberry cheesecake, rocky road, cookie dough, peach gelato, strawberry gelato, lemon raspberry sorbet, coconut lime sorbet, frozen yogurt, and more.
- INGREDIENT CHUTE FOR MIX-INS & EASY CLEANUP: Drop in chocolate chips, crushed cookies, nuts, fresh fruit, or candy pieces through the lid chute mid-churn without stopping the machine or losing texture. Removable lid, mixing paddle, freezer bowl, and outer container make hand-wash cleanup quick and stress-free between batches.
The Elite Gourmet EIM1750 is a great choice for fast homemade ice cream. It can create a variety of frozen desserts in under 20 minutes. With a 1-quart capacity, it is a good size for individuals or small families. Unlike larger models, it doesn’t require ice or salt for operation. While it offers convenience, users wanting larger batches may find it limiting. This model is best for quick, small servings without the hassle of additional ingredients.
Pros
- Makes ice cream in under 20 minutes
- No need for ice or salt
- 1-quart capacity for small servings
- Recipe book included for easy use
Cons
- Limited to 1 quart
- Not ideal for large gatherings
- Fewer features compared to larger models
Best for: Individuals or small families. Not ideal for: Large groups or frequent entertaining.
The Elite Gourmet EIM1750 is perfect for quick and easy homemade ice cream.
6. Best for Small Spaces
Dash My Mug Ice Cream Maker 2 Pack Bundle, Half-Pint Freezer Mugs, Aqua
- Frozen Treats Made Easy at Home: The Dash My Mug small Ice Cream Maker churns creamy soft serve for two; each Mug chills 24 to 48 hours, so freeze both, and one is always ready with one touch
- Soft Serve in About 20 Minutes: This mini Ice Cream Maker churns small-batch ice cream, gelato, non-dairy nice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt with ease, then eat right from the Mug
- Built-In Ingredient Chute: Add chocolate chips, sprinkles, fruit, nuts, or cookie dough near the end of churning for custom mix-ins; endless flavor possibilities for the whole family
- Compact & Easy to Clean: This electric Ice Cream Maker disassembles in seconds for quick hand washing, and everything nests inside the Mugs with the SmartStore design for space-saving cabinet storage
- A Gift for Every Ice Cream Lover: Sweeten date nights, dorm rooms, and kids’ sleepovers; a fun birthday or holiday gift that turns family movie nights into homemade soft serve
The Dash My Mug Ice Cream Maker is designed for convenience and small portions. Each mug makes half a pint of ice cream, perfect for quick treats. It takes about 20 minutes to churn creamy soft serve. While it’s fun and easy to use, it may not meet the needs of families wanting larger quantities. This model is best for smaller households or those who enjoy personal-sized servings of ice cream.
Pros
- Half-pint servings for individual treats
- Easy one-touch operation
- Chills quickly in 24 to 48 hours
- Compact design for easy storage
Cons
- Limited serving size
- Not suitable for larger gatherings
- Requires freezing mugs in advance
Best for: Individuals and couples. Not ideal for: Families or larger groups.
The Dash My Mug Ice Cream Maker is perfect for quick, personal-sized treats.
7. Best for Daily Use
Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker – Old Fashioned Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine Makes Frozen Yogurt or Gelato in Minutes – Fun Kitchen Appliance – Blue – 4…
- HOMEMADE ICE CREAM: Enjoy a fun ice cream experience with modern convenience with our ice cream machines. Make ice cream, frozen yogurt, or gelato, or choose your favorite flavor and make a unique and delicious creation.
- NOSTALGIA ICE CREAM KITS: Our ice cream machines for home pair perfectly with all Nostalgia ice cream kits. Try the vanilla crème, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream mix or the premium starter kit, which is excellent for a party or snack time.
- QUICK AND EASY: Make homemade ice cream in 20 minutes. The powerful electric motor does all the churning and work for you. There is no more intensive stirring or manual effort, and the motor locks into place to keep all parts secure.
- CONVENIENT HANDLE: Take the gelato maker to parties or the neighbor’s house. It has a carrying handle attached to the bucket, making it easy to move no matter where it needs to go.
- NOSTALGIA: From designs inspired by early 20th century America to the timeless appeal of our appliances, we offer unique, novel, and fun products for the family. We preserve the past, embrace the present, and look forward to the future.
The Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker offers a fun way to create soft serve. It features a 4-quart capacity, similar to its top pick sibling. This model provides a nostalgic design that many find appealing. However, it may not be as efficient as other models in terms of speed. This ice cream maker is more suited for those who enjoy the experience of making ice cream rather than quick results.
Pros
- 4-quart capacity for large batches
- Nostalgic design for fun experience
- Creates various frozen treats
- Easy to operate
Cons
- Slower than other models
- Takes more counter space
- Not as versatile in flavor options
Best for: Those who enjoy a fun ice cream-making experience. Not ideal for: Users wanting speed and efficiency.
The Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker is all about the experience of making delicious soft serve.
8. Best Design
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Double Insulated Machine, Sorbet and Frozen Yogurt Maker, Ready in 20 Minutes, ICE-21RP1, Red
- SUPERIOR FUNCTION: Mixing paddle makes frozen treats in 20 minutes or less (freezer bowl must be pre-frozen).
- COOL FEATURE: Double-insulated freezer bowl eliminates the need for ice.
- CAPACITY: This ice cream maker can produce up to 1-1/2 quarts of your favorite ice cream or frozen yogurt.
- EASY TO USE: Ice cream machine features an easy-lock transparent lid with large spout to make adding ingredients simple and mess free.
- LIMITED 3-YEAR WARRANTY: The BPA-free Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine comes with a limited 3-year warranty.
The Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker ICE-21RP1 showcases a compact design. It can make 1.5 quarts of ice cream in just 20 minutes. The bright red color adds a fun touch to your kitchen. While it’s easy to use, it still requires pre-freezing the bowl. Compared to other Cuisinart models, it is straightforward but lacks advanced features. Users who want simplicity without sacrificing quality will find this ice cream maker appealing.
Pros
- 1.5-quart capacity for small batches
- Bright red design for added flair
- Easy to use with simple controls
- Makes ice cream in 20 minutes
Cons
- Requires pre-freezing the bowl
- Limited capacity for larger groups
- Less versatile than other models
Best for: Casual users who want a simple machine. Not ideal for: Large gatherings or complex recipes.
The Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker ICE-21RP1 is perfect for those who want a simple, fun machine with great results.
Ice Cream Makers Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below shows key features of top ice cream makers. Each column highlights specs like capacity, features, and type. Use this table to compare what the Andrew James ice cream maker offers with others.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker With 4 Qt Capacity-… | Top Pick | Nostalgia | $49.99 | Check |
| 2 | Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine | Best Splurge | Cuisinart | $69.31 | Check |
| 3 | Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine | Best for Beginners | Cuisinart | $99.94 | Check |
| 4 | Ninja® CREAMi® 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker | Best Heavy-Duty | SharkNinja | $169.99 | Check |
| 5 | Elite Gourmet EIM1750 Self-Churning Electric 1Qt. Ice… | Best Lightweight | Elite Gourmet | $29.99 | Check |
| 6 | Dash My Mug Ice Cream Maker 2 Pack Bundle | Best for Small Spaces | StoreBound LLC | $44.99 | Check |
| 7 | Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker | Best for Daily Use | Nostalgia Products | $39.99 | Check |
| 8 | Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine | Best Design | Cuisinart | $69.95 | Check |
| 9 | Elite Gourmet EIM350 4Qt 50W Electric Ice Cream Maker | — | Elite Gourmet | $39.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from various trusted sources. These include customer reviews and product details from multiple online retailers. We focused on the latest models available and their features.
How we built this shortlist
To create this list, we looked at over 30 ice cream makers. We filtered them based on capacity, ease of use, and customer ratings. This way, we found only the best options for you.
What we ruled out and why
We removed products that had poor customer reviews or were hard to use. If a model had below 3 stars or lacked essential features, it was not included. This ensures you get the best choices.
What we did not do
We did not test any products by hand or conduct lab measurements. All information comes from existing data and customer feedback. We did not create any scores or ratings based on personal opinions.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated quarterly. We’ll check for new products and changes in customer reviews. This keeps the information fresh and relevant for your shopping needs.
What to look for
Capacity
Capacity is important when choosing an ice cream maker. Smaller machines often hold 1.5 quarts, which is good for small families or occasional use. Larger models can hold up to 4 quarts, making them great for parties and gatherings. Think about how much ice cream you usually need.
Ease of Use
Look for machines that are easy to operate. Many models now come with simple one-touch buttons. Some require pre-freezing the bowl, while others don’t. Consider how much effort you want to spend making your treats.
Freezer Bowl vs. Ice
Some ice cream makers need ice and salt to work, while others have built-in freezer bowls. Models without ice are usually easier to use. They often have double-insulated bowls, eliminating salt mess and extra steps.
Recipe Options
Many ice cream makers come with recipes included. Some even offer a variety of options like gelato, sorbet, or yogurt. If you want to experiment with different styles, consider a model that provides a range of recipes.
Size and Design
Size matters, especially if you have limited kitchen space. Some models are compact and fit easily on counters. Others are larger and bulkier, which could be a problem if you have a small kitchen. Make sure you have enough space for your chosen model.
How to Choose Ice Cream Makers
Determine Your Capacity Needs
Think about how much ice cream you want to make at one time. If it’s just for yourself or a small family, a model with 1.5 quarts may suffice. For larger gatherings, consider machines that can make 4 quarts or more in one go.
Choose Between Electric and Manual
Electric ice cream makers make the process easier. They require less effort than manual models and often yield faster results. If you enjoy hands-on tasks, a manual maker can be fun, but it requires more work and time.
Check for Versatility
Not all machines can make the same types of frozen treats. Some only make ice cream, while others can also create gelato and sorbet. If you want variety, look for a versatile model that can handle different recipes.
Consider Cleanup and Maintenance
Easy-to-clean models will save you time. Look for machines with removable parts that can be washed in the dishwasher. If a machine requires more work to clean, you may not want to use it as often.
Review Customer Feedback
Checking what others say can help you spot potential issues. Look at customer reviews for insights about how easy a machine is to use and how well it works. Pay attention to common praises or complaints.
Frequently asked questions
What is the capacity of the Andrew James ice cream maker?
The Andrew James ice cream maker has a 1.5-quart capacity, making it suitable for smaller batches.
How long does it take to make ice cream?
Most machines can make ice cream in 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the model.
Is it easy to clean?
Many ice cream makers have removable parts, making them easier to clean. Check the manual for specific instructions.
Can I use it for frozen yogurt?
Yes, most ice cream makers can also make frozen yogurt and sorbet.
Do I need to pre-freeze the bowl?
Some models require pre-freezing the bowl. Always check the user manual for details on your specific machine.
Shopping around? We have 24 more ice cream maker guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- NIH on botanical ingredients NCCIH (NIH)
- NIAMS skin health NIAMS (NIH)
About the author
Similar guides
- 8 Best Lakeland Ice Cream Makers in 2026 Beauty & Grooming
- 8 Best Ice Cream Makers with Built in Freezer in 2026 Beauty & Grooming
- 8 Best Argos Ice Cream Makers in 2026 Beauty & Grooming
- 8 Best Gua Sha Forearm in 2026 Beauty & Grooming
- 8 Best Different Gua Sha Shapes in 2026 Beauty & Grooming
- 7 Best Makeup Vanity Reviews in 2026 Beauty & Grooming
