What is an ice cream maker?

An ice cream maker is a machine used to create ice cream and other frozen desserts at home.

Do all ice cream makers have a freezing element?

Not all ice cream makers have a built-in freezing element, some models require pre-freezing the bowl.

Can I make other desserts with an ice cream maker?

Yes, many ice cream makers can also make gelato, frozen yogurt, and sorbets.

How long does it take to make ice cream in an ice cream maker?

It typically takes between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the model and recipe.

What should I consider when buying an ice cream maker?

Consider factors such as capacity, freezing method, ease of use, clean-up, and price.

May 7, 2026

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10 Best ice cream makers of 2026

Save up to 38% off

Best Choice

1

Whynter
Whynter Ice Cream Maker Machine Automatic 2.1 Qt. Upright with Built-In Compressor, LCD Digital Display & Timer, No Pre-Freezing, ICM-201SB, Stainless Steel

17% Off
Main highlights

Self-Refrigerating Convenience
Automatic ice cream maker with built-in compressor for easy use.

Perfect for Custom Creations
Ideal for making gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt at home.

Highly Praised Performance
Customers love the smooth, creamy texture of the ice cream.
Key specs
- global trade identification number:00852749006146
- product dimensions:14.25"L x 12.5"W x 14.25"H
- recommended uses for product:Residential
- color:Stainless Steel
- operation mode:Automatic
9.9

Exceptional

Our Rating
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Value for Money

2

Ninja
Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Ice Cream Maker, Soft Serve Desserts, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Frozen Yogurt and More, 13-in-1 Programs, Includes Handle and Two 16 oz 2-in-1 Pints, NC701

15% Off
Main highlights

13 Programs For Versatile Desserts
Features 13 one-touch programs, including six dedicated for soft serve, letting users easily create a variety of delicious frozen treats at home.

Family Friendly Customization
Lets families and individuals customize ingredients and mix-ins for dietary preferences, making it ideal for gatherings, kids, or health-conscious sweet lovers.

Praised For Easy Cleanup
Users appreciate that the removable parts and pints are BPA-free and dishwasher safe for simple, stress-free cleaning after use.
9.6

Exceptional

Our Rating
3

Cuisinart
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Ice Cream, Sorbet and Frozen Yogurt Machine, Fully Automatic Double-Insulated Freezer Bowl Makes Frozen Desserts in Under 30 Minutes, ICE30BCP1, Silver

38% Off Limited Time Deal
Main highlights

Quick Frozen Dessert Preparation
Produces up to 2 quarts of ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt in under 30 minutes with a fully automatic heavy-duty motor.

Entertaining and Family Use
Ideal for families and gatherings where fast, homemade frozen desserts or drinks are desired.

Praise for Double-Insulated Bowl
Users consistently appreciate the double-insulated freezer bowl for its excellent freezing performance and efficiency.
9.3

Excellent

Our Rating
4

Nostalgia
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 Cream Maker with Aluminum Canister- Light Wood
Main highlights

Convenient and Quick Ice Cream Making
Make homemade ice cream, frozen yogurt, or gelato in 20 minutes with an automatic operation.

Perfect for Parties and Family Gatherings
Ideal for creating delicious treats for large groups with its 4-quart capacity.

Quiet Operation and Nostalgic Design
Praised for its quiet motor and vintage wooden style, enhancing the user experience.
Key specs
- global trade identification number:00082677000781
- product dimensions:16.25"L x 13"W x 13"H
- recommended uses for product:Residential
- color:Light Wood
- operation mode:Automatic
9.2

Excellent

Our Rating
5

Ninja
Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker, for Gelato, Mix-ins, Milkshakes, Sorbet, Smoothie Bowls & More, 7 One-Touch Programs, with (2) Pint Containers & Lids, Compact Size, Perfect for Kids, Silver

13% Off
Main highlights

Total Ingredient Control for Unique Frozen Treats
Create custom ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and more while controlling ingredients for dietary needs like keto or non-dairy.

Ideal for Family Fun and Everyday Desserts
Compact design and easy operation make it perfect for kids, families, or anyone wanting fast, delicious treats at home.

Praised Feature: Simple One-Touch Programs and Easy Cleanup
Users love the seven one-touch settings and dishwasher safe containers for consistently smooth results with minimal mess.
8.9

Very Good

Our Rating
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6

Cuisinart
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Stainless Steel Frozen Yogurt, Gelato, Sorbet, Ready in 20 Minutes, LCD Screen and Timer, ICE-70P1

37% Off
Main highlights

Fast Dessert Creation
Create two quarts of frozen treats in just 20 minutes.

Versatile Use Cases
Ideal for making ice cream, frozen yogurt, gelato, and sorbet.

Ease of Use
Praised for user-friendly operation and easy cleaning.
Key specs
- global trade identification number:10086279176193
- product dimensions:9.74"L x 8.62"W x 13.22"H
- recommended uses for product:Residential
- color:Ice Cream Maker with Countdown Timer
- operation mode:Automatic
8.8

Very Good

Our Rating
7

SYINTAO
SYINTAO 2-in-1 Slushie & Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker, 96oz Vessel No-Ice-Needed Frozen Drink Machine with LED Display, 6 Preset Modes, Auto-Clean & Delay Timer – Gift for Family

19% Off
Main highlights

Versatile appliance for frozen drinks and soft serve
Enjoy both slushies and creamy soft serve at home with rapid-freeze technology and 6 automatic preset modes for perfect results every time.

Perfect for family gatherings and parties
With its 96oz capacity and easy one-touch controls, this machine is ideal for serving groups, entertaining, or preparing treats for special occasions.

Easy cleaning and user-friendly controls praised
Customers love the dishwasher-safe removable parts and simple LED panel, making operation and cleanup a breeze.
Key specs
- Delay Timer:Yes
- Removable Parts:Lid, drip tray (dishwasher-safe)
- Preset Modes:6 (Slush, Ice Cream, Cocktail Slush, Milkshake, Frappe, Chilled Juice)
- Vessel Capacity:96oz
- LED Display:Yes
8.5

Good

Our Rating
8

Whynter
Whynter Ice Cream Maker Machine Automatic 2.1 Qt. with Built-In Compressor, LCD Digital Display & Timer, No Pre-Freezing, ICM-200LS, Stainless Steel

27% Off
Main highlights

Customizable Homemade Frozen Treats
This ice cream maker lets users add fruit, nuts, syrups, and more for creating fully personalized desserts.

Continuous Use with Built-In Compressor
Ideal for making multiple batches without pre-freezing, perfect for family events or gatherings.

Award-Winning Performance Recognized by Tech Gear Lab
Customers love the consistent results and extended cooling function that prevents melting.
8.4

Good

Our Rating
9

Ninja
Ninja CREAMi Deluxe Ice Cream Maker | 11-in-1 Create Frozen Desserts, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Yogurt & More | Includes 2 Dishwasher Safe XL 24 Oz. Tubs with storage lids | Silver | NC501
Main highlights

11 Programs and Customization Options
Features 11-in-1 functionality and lets you fully control ingredients for personalized treats including low sugar and dairy-free options.

XL Capacity for Family Use
24 oz. XL tubs hold 50% more than previous models, making it ideal for serving larger groups or families.

Easy to Use with Dishwasher Safe Parts
Customers praise the simplicity and easy cleanup thanks to dishwasher safe tubs and intuitive operation.
8.3

Good

Our Rating
10

Cuisinart
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker – Cuisinart FastFreeze 5-in-1 Ice Cream, Milkshakes, Slushies, Sorbets and Mix-Ins, Freeze Wand, Two 0.5-Pint Mixing Cups with Lids, Easy to Clean, ICE-FD10

17% Off
Main highlights

Versatile 5 in 1 dessert making functionality
Delivers 5-in-1 capability to prepare ice cream, milkshakes, slushies, sorbet, and mix-ins with ease, all in a single compact appliance.

Space saving design for small kitchens or apartments
Compact size allows for convenient storage and easy countertop use, making it ideal for those with limited space.

Quick preparation with dishwasher safe cups
FastFreeze technology and three detachable, easy-to-clean cups are commonly appreciated by users for quick, hassle-free dessert making.
8.2

Good

Our Rating

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an ice cream maker?
An ice cream maker is a machine used to create ice cream and other frozen desserts at home.

Do all ice cream makers have a freezing element?
Not all ice cream makers have a built-in freezing element, some models require pre-freezing the bowl.

Can I make other desserts with an ice cream maker?
Yes, many ice cream makers can also make gelato, frozen yogurt, and sorbets.

How long does it take to make ice cream in an ice cream maker?
It typically takes between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the model and recipe.

What should I consider when buying an ice cream maker?
Consider factors such as capacity, freezing method, ease of use, clean-up, and price.

10 Best ice cream makers of 2026

1

Whynter Ice Cream Maker Machine Automatic 2.1 Qt. Upright with Built-In Compressor, LCD Digital Display & Timer, No Pre-Freezing, ICM-201SB, Stainless Steel

How do we rank?

How do we rank?

Analyzing top stores

2

Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Ice Cream Maker, Soft Serve Desserts, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Frozen Yogurt and More, 13-in-1 Programs, Includes Handle and Two 16 oz 2-in-1 Pints, NC701

3

Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Ice Cream, Sorbet and Frozen Yogurt Machine, Fully Automatic Double-Insulated Freezer Bowl Makes Frozen Desserts in Under 30 Minutes, ICE30BCP1, Silver

4

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 Cream Maker with Aluminum Canister- Light Wood

5

Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker, for Gelato, Mix-ins, Milkshakes, Sorbet, Smoothie Bowls & More, 7 One-Touch Programs, with (2) Pint Containers & Lids, Compact Size, Perfect for Kids, Silver

6

Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Stainless Steel Frozen Yogurt, Gelato, Sorbet, Ready in 20 Minutes, LCD Screen and Timer, ICE-70P1

7

SYINTAO 2-in-1 Slushie & Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker, 96oz Vessel No-Ice-Needed Frozen Drink Machine with LED Display, 6 Preset Modes, Auto-Clean & Delay Timer – Gift for Family

8

Whynter Ice Cream Maker Machine Automatic 2.1 Qt. with Built-In Compressor, LCD Digital Display & Timer, No Pre-Freezing, ICM-200LS, Stainless Steel

9

Ninja CREAMi Deluxe Ice Cream Maker | 11-in-1 Create Frozen Desserts, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Yogurt & More | Includes 2 Dishwasher Safe XL 24 Oz. Tubs with storage lids | Silver | NC501

10

Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker – Cuisinart FastFreeze 5-in-1 Ice Cream, Milkshakes, Slushies, Sorbets and Mix-Ins, Freeze Wand, Two 0.5-Pint Mixing Cups with Lids, Easy to Clean, ICE-FD10

Frequently Asked Questions

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10 Best ice cream makers of 2026

1

Whynter Ice Cream Maker Machine Automatic 2.1 Qt. Upright with Built-In Compressor, LCD Digital Display & Timer, No Pre-Freezing, ICM-201SB, Stainless Steel

How do we rank?

How do we rank?

Analyzing top stores

2

Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Ice Cream Maker, Soft Serve Desserts, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Frozen Yogurt and More, 13-in-1 Programs, Includes Handle and Two 16 oz 2-in-1 Pints, NC701

3

Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Ice Cream, Sorbet and Frozen Yogurt Machine, Fully Automatic Double-Insulated Freezer Bowl Makes Frozen Desserts in Under 30 Minutes, ICE30BCP1, Silver

4

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 Cream Maker with Aluminum Canister- Light Wood

5

Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker, for Gelato, Mix-ins, Milkshakes, Sorbet, Smoothie Bowls & More, 7 One-Touch Programs, with (2) Pint Containers & Lids, Compact Size, Perfect for Kids, Silver

6

Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 2-Quart Stainless Steel Frozen Yogurt, Gelato, Sorbet, Ready in 20 Minutes, LCD Screen and Timer, ICE-70P1

7

SYINTAO 2-in-1 Slushie & Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker, 96oz Vessel No-Ice-Needed Frozen Drink Machine with LED Display, 6 Preset Modes, Auto-Clean & Delay Timer – Gift for Family

8

Whynter Ice Cream Maker Machine Automatic 2.1 Qt. with Built-In Compressor, LCD Digital Display & Timer, No Pre-Freezing, ICM-200LS, Stainless Steel

9

Ninja CREAMi Deluxe Ice Cream Maker | 11-in-1 Create Frozen Desserts, Sorbet, Milkshakes, Yogurt & More | Includes 2 Dishwasher Safe XL 24 Oz. Tubs with storage lids | Silver | NC501

10

Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker – Cuisinart FastFreeze 5-in-1 Ice Cream, Milkshakes, Slushies, Sorbets and Mix-Ins, Freeze Wand, Two 0.5-Pint Mixing Cups with Lids, Easy to Clean, ICE-FD10

Frequently Asked Questions

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Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, 1.5 Quart Double Insulated Machine, Sorbet and Frozen Yogurt Maker, Ready in 20 Minutes, ICE-21RP1, Red

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