8 Best Ice Cream Makers in 2026

At a Glance

Category	Product	Why We Picked It
Best overall	Cuisinart ICE-21	Smooth results in 20 minutes at a reasonable price
Best value	Cuisinart ICE-30BC Pure Indulgence	Larger capacity with double insulation
Best for modern convenience	Ninja Creami Deluxe	Spins frozen bases in XL 24-oz family-sized tubs
Best high-end compressor	Breville Smart Scoop	Automatic hardness sensor stops at perfect consistency
Best for KitchenAid owners	KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker Attachment	Space-saving option that uses your existing mixer
Also recommended	Whynter ICM-201SB	A reliable mid-range compressor for back-to-back batches
Also recommended	Hamilton Beach Electric Ice Cream Maker	Budget-friendly 4-quart capacity for big family batches
Also recommended	Cuisinart Compressor Ice Cream Maker	Self-refrigerating compressor with ice cream and gelato paddles

How we chose and tested

We evaluated ice cream makers based on real-world performance, ease of use, and value. Our assessment considers texture consistency, noise levels, and cleanup effort across different frozen dessert types. We compared both traditional churning methods and newer technologies, prioritizing machines that deliver reliable results without unnecessary complexity.

The best ice cream maker right now

Cuisinart ICE-21 - Best overall

This freezer bowl machine produces smooth, creamy ice cream in about 20 minutes at a price that won't break the bank. It's straightforward enough for beginners but consistent enough for regular use.

Check Price at Amazon

Key highlights

Makes 1.5 quarts per batch
Simple on/off switch with motor-overheat protection
Includes recipes for ice cream, frozen yogurt, and sorbet
Compact design fits easily on countertops
Hand-wash the freezer bowl, paddle, and lid

Pros

Excellent value for money
Consistent results across multiple batches
Quiet operation compared to many competitors
Widely available replacement parts and accessories

Cons

Generally requires 16-24 hours to pre-freeze the bowl
Limited to one batch before re-freezing needed
Plastic construction feels less premium than stainless steel

Who it is for: Home cooks who want reliable ice cream without spending hundreds of dollars.

Skip if

You need to make multiple batches back-to-back or don't have freezer space for the bowl.

Cuisinart ICE-30BC Pure Indulgence - Best value

This freezer bowl model makes up to 2 quarts per batch. The linked listing includes an extended protection plan.

Check Price at Amazon

Key highlights

2-quart capacity for larger batches
Double insulation improves freezing efficiency
Heavy-duty motor for automatic churning
Includes recipe book with creative flavor ideas
Transparent lid lets you monitor progress

Pros

Makes enough ice cream for a small gathering
Makes frozen desserts in as little as 25 minutes
Still reasonably priced for the capacity increase
Compatible with many Cuisinart accessories

Cons

Larger bowl requires more freezer space
Still needs pre-freezing like all freezer bowl models
Weighs 13.4 pounds

Who it is for: Families or anyone who regularly entertains and needs larger batches.

Skip if

Your freezer is already packed or you only make ice cream for one or two people.

Ninja Creami Deluxe - Best for modern convenience

This viral machine uses a completely different approach, spinning frozen solid bases into creamy treats with powerful blades.

Check Price at Amazon

Key highlights

Works with pre-frozen bases in XL 24-oz tubs
11 preset programs for different dessert types
"Re-spin" function refreshes texture if needed
XL capacity with family-sized tubs
Dual processing turns one frozen base into two mix-in flavors

Pros

No pre-freezing of bowls required
Can make small batches without waste
Creates smooth results from healthy, low-fat bases
Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts

Cons

Requires planning since bases must freeze solid first
Loud during the spinning process
Some users report plastic pieces in finished product
More expensive than basic freezer bowl models

Who it is for: People who want to experiment with healthy frozen desserts or make family-sized servings.

Skip if

You prefer traditional churned ice cream or want to make large batches.

Breville Smart Scoop - Best high-end compressor

This fully automated compressor machine offers digital controls and hardness settings for precise results every time.

Check Price at Amazon

Key highlights

Digital display with multiple program settings
Automatic hardness sensor stops at perfect consistency
"Keep cool" function maintains temperature after churning
Includes a removable bowl, paddle, and cleaning brush
Safety feature stops motor if it overheats

Pros

Consistent results with minimal user input
Can make multiple batches consecutively
Professional-grade construction
Quiet operation for a compressor model

Cons

Very expensive compared to other options
Heavy and difficult to move or store
Some users report paddle design traps ice cream
Digital controls add complexity that some may not need

Who it is for: Tech enthusiasts who want the most automated, precise ice cream making experience.

Skip if

You prefer simple controls or don't want to spend this much on an ice cream maker.

KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker Attachment - Best for stand mixer owners

If you already own a KitchenAid stand mixer, this attachment saves space and money while delivering good results.

Check Price at Amazon

Key highlights

Attaches to most KitchenAid stand mixers
Uses same pre-freeze bowl concept as standalone models
Makes about 2 quarts per batch
Includes recipe booklet with mixer-specific instructions
Fits in standard freezer when not in use

Pros

No need for another appliance on your counter
Less expensive than buying a complete machine
Uses your existing mixer's power and stability
Easy to store when not in use

Cons

Requires planning for bowl freezing
Some users report bowl cracking or leaking issues
Only works if you already own a compatible mixer
Takes up freezer space like other bowl models

Who it is for: KitchenAid stand mixer owners who want to add ice cream making without buying another appliance.

Skip if

You don't own a KitchenAid mixer or want to make ice cream while using your mixer for other tasks.

Also Good

Whynter ICM-201SB - a reliable mid-range compressor for back-to-back batches.
Hamilton Beach Electric Ice Cream Maker - budget-friendly 4-quart capacity for big family batches.
Cuisinart Compressor Ice Cream Maker - self-refrigerating compressor with separate ice cream and gelato paddles.

How to Choose

Consider these factors when selecting your ice cream maker:

Frequency of use: If you'll make ice cream weekly, a compressor model saves time and planning. For occasional use, a freezer bowl machine offers better value.
Batch size: Most home machines make 1.5-2 quarts, which serves 4-6 people. Consider how many you typically serve and whether you want leftovers.
Freezer space: Freezer bowl models require significant freezer space for the bowl (and sometimes multiple bowls for consecutive batches). Measure before buying.
Noise tolerance: Compressor machines are significantly louder than freezer bowl models. Consider where you'll use it and whether noise matters.
Budget: Prices range from under $50 for basic ice-and-salt models to over $600 for high-end compressors. More money typically buys convenience and consistency, not necessarily better-tasting ice cream.

FAQ

How long does it take to make ice cream?

Allow time to freeze the bowl before churning; the Cuisinart ICE-21 generally needs 16-24 hours in the freezer and then makes frozen desserts in about 20 minutes. Compressor models do not require a pre-frozen bowl; preparation time varies by recipe and machine.

Can I make dairy-free or low-sugar ice cream?

Yes, most machines handle alternative milks and sweeteners well. The Ninja Creami particularly excels with low-fat and healthy bases due to its powerful spinning blades.

Do I need special ingredients?

No, you can use standard cream, milk, sugar, and eggs. Many machines include recipe books with both traditional and creative options.

How do I clean an ice cream maker?

Follow the cleaning instructions for your model. The Cuisinart ICE-21 freezer bowl must be hand-washed and must not go in the dishwasher; the Ninja Creami's tubs and lids are dishwasher-safe. Never submerge motor units in water.

Can I make gelato and sorbet too?

Most machines include settings or recipes for gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt. Some higher-end models include separate paddles for different textures.

Published February 24, 2026 Last updated September 15, 2026