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10 Best Ice Cream Machine 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,267
Ease of Cleaning
Noise Level
Additional Features

Most important from
5789 reviews

Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning is a breeze compared to other ice cream makers. The pints are easy to handle, and even the lid is simple to clean once you know how.
Noise Level
The machine is loud, but the noise is worth it for the quality of ice cream it produces.
Additional Features
This machine is AMAZING! It makes delicious and creamy gelato even with skim milk and allulose, making it low calorie and healthy.

The Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker is a versatile kitchen appliance that caters to ice cream lovers and those wanting to explore various frozen treats. It stands out for its ability to create a diverse range of frozen desserts, from gelato to smoothies, thanks to its 7 one-touch programs. This customization allows users to control their ingredients, making it suitable for different dietary preferences like keto, vegan, or dairy-free options. The CREAMi's Creamify Technology ensures a smooth and creamy texture, enhancing the quality of homemade ice creams. Additionally, it offers a Re-spin function to adjust the texture after processing, which is a nice touch for those who prefer their treats a bit softer. The ease of cleaning is another plus, as the containers and paddle are dishwasher safe, making post-creation cleanup simpler for busy households.

This ice cream maker is ideal for families with kids, health-conscious individuals looking to create guilt-free treats, and anyone who enjoys experimenting with flavors and textures in their frozen desserts.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,267
Ease of Cleaning
Noise Level
Additional Features

Most important from
5789 reviews

Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning is a breeze compared to other ice cream makers. The pints are easy to handle, and even the lid is simple to clean once you know how.
Noise Level
The machine is loud, but the noise is worth it for the quality of ice cream it produces.
Additional Features
This machine is AMAZING! It makes delicious and creamy gelato even with skim milk and allulose, making it low calorie and healthy.
#2

Ninja Swirl by CREAMi Ice Cream and Soft Serve Maker, Sorbet, Milkshake, Frozen Yogurt, Low Calories Program & More, 13-in-1, Soft Serve Handle, (2) CREAMi Swirl 16oz Pints, For Kids & ALL ages, NC701

Rating
10.0
Noise Level

Most important from
749 reviews

Noise Level
It functions great and is easy to use, though it can be quite loud when blending and dispensing.

The Ninja Swirl by CREAMi Ice Cream and Soft Serve Maker is a versatile machine offering a wide range of frozen treat options. With 13 one-touch programs, it caters to various preferences including classic scoops and soft serve. The machine's capacity is 16 ounces, suitable for small servings, which might be limiting for larger families or gatherings.

It uses an automatic freezing method, simplifying the process for users but potentially requiring more time compared to other methods. Ease of cleaning is a significant advantage, with most parts being dishwasher safe. This makes maintenance a breeze.

Additional features like the CreamiFit program for lower calorie and high-protein treats, and the soft serve handle with 3 speed settings, enhance customization and ease of use. The machine is family-friendly, designed to be interactive and fun for all ages. However, its weight (20.8 pounds) and size (15.15"L x 10.03"W x 17.51"H) might be cumbersome for some households. The Ninja Swirl is ideal for users looking for versatility and customization in their frozen treats, with easy cleaning and family-friendly features being notable strengths.

Rating
10.0
Noise Level

Most important from
749 reviews

Noise Level
It functions great and is easy to use, though it can be quite loud when blending and dispensing.
#3

VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Machine, 21 QT/H Yield, 1800W 3-Flavor Countertop Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker, 2 x 4L Hopper 2 x 1.8L Cylinder, LCD Panel Auto Clean Pre-cooling, for Restaurant Snack Bar

Rating
9.7
Ease of Cleaning
Freezing Method
Additional Features

Most important from
259 reviews

Ease of Cleaning
Effortless operation and surprisingly simple cleaning make producing multiple batches of soft serve a pleasure.
Freezing Method
The built-in compressor delivers fast results, enabling vanilla ice cream to be ready in under an hour without overnight wait times.
Additional Features
Mixing flavors is straightforward and flexible, allowing for personalized recipes with ease.
Other
The user manual lacks detailed guidance on functions, which can lead to confusion during setup and operation.

The VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Machine is designed for businesses like cafes, ice cream shops, or snack bars that need a reliable, high-output soft serve machine. Its standout strength is its impressive capacity, able to produce up to 20 liters (around 5.3 gallons) of ice cream per hour, thanks to two 4-liter hoppers and two cylinders. This means it can handle busy periods without running out quickly. The machine uses a built-in powerful compressor for rapid freezing, with an initial freezing time of about 15 minutes and subsequent batches ready in just 6 minutes, which supports continuous operation quite well.

The device features an easy-to-use LCD panel that simplifies controlling settings, timing, and cleaning functions. The one-click automatic cleaning is a convenient addition, though the product care instructions suggest hand washing certain parts, so some manual cleaning effort remains. Its stainless steel construction (both SUS201 and food-grade SUS304 steel) ensures durability and rust resistance, which is important in commercial environments.

The machine produces moderate noise typical of commercial ice cream machines with compressors and is fairly large and heavy (over 180 pounds), making it best suited for permanent counter placement rather than frequent moving. Additional features like pre-cooling and enhanced texture control add to its versatility, allowing users to create a variety of soft serve treats beyond simple cones. This machine meets the needs of commercial users looking for steady volume and consistent quality but might be more machine than a small or casual user requires. Its slightly complex cleaning and size could be drawbacks in very small setups. It represents a solid choice for businesses aiming for efficient, high-output ice cream service.

Rating
9.7
Ease of Cleaning
Freezing Method
Additional Features

Most important from
259 reviews

Ease of Cleaning
Effortless operation and surprisingly simple cleaning make producing multiple batches of soft serve a pleasure.
Freezing Method
The built-in compressor delivers fast results, enabling vanilla ice cream to be ready in under an hour without overnight wait times.
Additional Features
Mixing flavors is straightforward and flexible, allowing for personalized recipes with ease.
Other
The user manual lacks detailed guidance on functions, which can lead to confusion during setup and operation.

Buying Guide for the Best Ice Cream Machine

Choosing the right ice cream machine can make a big difference in your homemade ice cream experience. Whether you're a casual ice cream lover or a serious dessert enthusiast, understanding the key specifications of ice cream machines will help you make an informed decision. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting an ice cream machine that best fits your needs.
Type of MachineIce cream machines come in different types: manual, electric, and compressor. Manual machines require you to churn the mixture by hand, which can be labor-intensive but gives you control over the process. Electric machines automate the churning process, making it easier and more convenient. Compressor machines have built-in refrigeration units, allowing you to make multiple batches without pre-freezing the bowl. Choose a manual machine if you enjoy a hands-on approach, an electric machine for ease of use, or a compressor machine for frequent and large batch production.
CapacityThe capacity of an ice cream machine refers to the amount of ice cream it can produce in one batch. This is usually measured in quarts or liters. Smaller machines typically make 1-1.5 quarts, which is suitable for individuals or small families. Larger machines can produce 2-4 quarts or more, ideal for larger families or gatherings. Consider how much ice cream you plan to make at a time and choose a capacity that matches your needs.
Freezing MethodIce cream machines use different methods to freeze the mixture. Some require you to pre-freeze the bowl, which can take several hours or overnight. Others have built-in compressors that freeze the mixture as it churns, allowing for continuous use. Pre-freeze bowl machines are generally more affordable but require planning ahead. Compressor machines offer convenience and flexibility but are typically more expensive. Decide based on how often you plan to use the machine and your preference for convenience.
Churning TimeChurning time refers to how long it takes for the machine to turn the mixture into ice cream. This can range from 20 minutes to over an hour, depending on the machine and the recipe. Faster churning times are convenient if you want to enjoy your ice cream quickly, while longer times may result in a creamier texture. Consider your patience level and how quickly you want your ice cream to be ready when choosing a machine.
Ease of CleaningCleaning an ice cream machine can be a hassle, so it's important to consider how easy it is to clean. Look for machines with removable parts that are dishwasher safe. Machines with fewer parts are generally easier to clean. If you plan to use the machine frequently, ease of cleaning will be an important factor to ensure you enjoy the process without the dread of a difficult cleanup.
Noise LevelIce cream machines can be noisy, especially during the churning process. Noise levels can vary significantly between models. If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use the machine in a quiet environment, look for models that are specifically designed to operate quietly. Reading user reviews can also give you an idea of the noise level to expect.
Additional FeaturesSome ice cream machines come with additional features such as timers, automatic shut-off, and multiple settings for different types of frozen desserts. These features can add convenience and versatility to your ice cream making experience. Consider which features are important to you and whether they justify any additional cost.

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