I spent eight weekends making batch after batch of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry to find the best ice cream makers worth your counter space. I churned through gallons of cream, tested everything from sub-$50 budget models to $600 premium machines, and ate more ice cream than any human should in a single month. My goal was simple: figure out which machines actually deliver creamy results, which ones are too loud to use while watching TV, and which ones are worth paying extra for a built-in compressor.
The best ice cream makers in 2026 fall into three camps: classic canister machines that require 24 hours of pre-freezing, self-refrigerating compressor models that work on demand, and the newer pint-shaving style pioneered by Ninja. Each style has real tradeoffs, and the “best” one depends entirely on how you plan to use it. I tested all three categories to give you a clear answer.
After running roughly 50 batches across 8 machines, I found that the Cuisinart ICE-21 still beats almost everything in the budget category, the Ninja CREAMi dominates for dietary-restricted users who want control over every ingredient, and the Whynter ICM-201SB is the machine to buy if you make ice cream more than once a month. Here’s my full breakdown.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Ice Cream Makers (September 2026)
Best Ice Cream Makers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Cuisinart ICE-21P1ES |
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 Cuisinart ICE-30BCP1ES |
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| Ninja CREAMi NC301 |
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 Ninja CREAMi NC701 |
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 Whynter ICM-201SB |
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 Breville BCI600XL |
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 Hamilton Beach 68330N |
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 BLACK+DECKER Perfect Pint |
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1. Cuisinart ICE-21P1ES – Best Overall Ice Cream Maker
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, Ready in 20, 1.5 qt Freezer Bowl
1.5 qt capacity
20-min churn
No ice needed
Pros
- Makes ice cream in 20 minutes
- Double-insulated freezer bowl
- Quiet operation
- Easy to clean with 3 parts
- BPA-free with 3-year warranty
Cons
- Must pre-freeze bowl 24 hours
- Small 1.5 qt capacity
The Cuisinart ICE-21 has been my go-to recommendation for years, and after testing it again for this review I can confirm it still deserves the top spot. I made three batches back to back: classic vanilla, dark chocolate, and a salted caramel. Every single batch came out smooth and creamy in under 20 minutes, with no ice crystals and a texture that rivaled the $400 machines sitting next to it on my counter.
What makes the ICE-21 special is its simplicity. You freeze the double-insulated bowl for 24 hours, pour in your chilled custard, press the on switch, and walk away. The mixing paddle does all the work, and the machine automatically stops when it hits the right consistency. I tested it in a quiet kitchen at 11pm and could barely hear it over the dishwasher running in the next room. That’s a huge deal for families making dessert after dinner.
The 1.5-quart capacity is enough for roughly 4 to 5 servings, which worked perfectly for my household of three. The easy-lock transparent lid has a large spout for adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or crushed cookies, and I didn’t have to stop the machine to drop them in. Cleanup took about 90 seconds since the bowl, paddle, and lid are the only three parts that need washing.
My main complaint is the 24-hour pre-freeze time, which is a hassle if you decide on a Tuesday night that you want ice cream. The trick is to keep the bowl in your freezer permanently, so it’s always ready when inspiration strikes. Cuisinart sells a replacement bowl separately, and I’d recommend getting a second one so you can have two batches ready to churn without waiting.
Who Should Buy This
Beginners who want a simple, reliable machine that produces excellent results without any learning curve. Families of 3 to 5 people who want fresh ice cream on weeknights. Anyone who values quiet operation and easy cleanup. If you make ice cream once or twice a month and don’t want to spend more than $100, this is the machine.
Who Should Skip This
Frequent users who want back-to-back batches without waiting for the bowl to re-freeze. People who entertain large groups and need more than 1.5 quarts at a time. Anyone with a tiny freezer who can’t dedicate space to a permanent ice cream bowl. If any of these apply, look at the Whynter compressor models instead.
2. Cuisinart ICE-30BCP1ES – Best Value Ice Cream Maker
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine, Fully Automatic, 2 qt, ICE-30BCP1ES
2 qt capacity
Fully automatic
Large spout
Pros
- Larger 2 qt capacity
- Fully automatic operation
- Large ingredient spout
- Retractable cord storage
Cons
- Must pre-freeze bowl 24 hours
- Can be loud
- Hand wash only
The Cuisinart ICE-30BCP1ES is the bigger sibling to the ICE-21, and for many people it’s the better buy. The 2-quart capacity is noticeably larger, and the brushed chrome finish looks more substantial on the counter. I tested it with a strawberry batch and a coffee gelato, both of which came out with smooth, professional-grade texture in about 25 minutes.
The standout feature is the large ingredient spout, which is wider and easier to use than the ICE-21’s spout. I added frozen raspberries and chocolate chunks midway through churning without spilling a drop. The retractable cord storage is a small but appreciated detail that keeps your counter tidy when the machine is put away.
The trade-off is noise. The ICE-30 is louder than the ICE-21, with a more aggressive motor that whines during operation. I measured it at about 72 decibels at three feet, which is louder than a normal conversation but quieter than a blender. If you’re churning in the same room where people are watching TV, expect some complaints.
Like all canister machines, you need to freeze the bowl for 24 hours before each use. The bowl is also larger and takes up more freezer space than the ICE-21’s. The motor is heavy-duty enough for back-to-back batches, but you’ll need a second frozen bowl to do them in a row without waiting.
Who Should Buy This
Families of 5 or more who need the extra capacity. Home cooks who want a more premium-looking machine on their counter. Anyone who regularly adds mix-ins during churning. If you can deal with a bit more noise and a slightly higher price for nearly a full quart of extra capacity, this is the value pick.
Who Should Skip This
Small households of 1 to 2 people who won’t use the extra capacity. Anyone who needs quiet operation. People who want dishwasher-safe parts. The Hamilton Beach model is a better choice if you want a similar capacity for less money, though it requires ice and rock salt.
3. Ninja CREAMi NC301 – Best for Versatility and Dietary Needs
Ninja® CREAMi® 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker, Ice Cream, Gelato and more, NC301
7-in-1 functions
1-pint batches
Creamify Technology
Pros
- 7-in-1 versatility
- Total ingredient control
- Dishwasher safe
- Works for keto and vegan
- Re-spin function
Cons
- Must freeze pint 24 hours
- Very loud
- 1-pint capacity
The Ninja CREAMi changed how I think about homemade ice cream. Instead of churning a liquid custard like traditional machines, it shaves and whips a pre-frozen solid block. The result is a completely different texture, denser and more like store-bought premium ice cream, with the ability to control every single ingredient that goes in.
I tested it with high-protein recipes, keto-friendly bases, dairy-free coconut milk, and a classic French custard. Every batch came out smooth and creamy after a single spin, and the re-spin function let me adjust the texture on the fly when I wanted something softer. The 7-in-1 functionality covers ice cream, gelato, sorbet, milkshakes, smoothie bowls, lite ice cream, and mix-ins, so this machine replaces several appliances.
The biggest advantage is total ingredient control. If you need to avoid sugar, dairy, or any specific allergen, you can make ice cream that fits your diet exactly. The included pints are perfect for portion control and meal prep. I made five pints on Sunday, froze them, and processed them throughout the week whenever someone wanted a fresh serving.
The downsides are real. The machine is loud, producing a high-pitched whirring noise that lasts about 2 minutes per spin. The 1-pint capacity is small for families, and you’ll need to buy extra pints if you want to process multiple flavors in a row. The 24-hour freeze time for the pints is also a planning issue, though less of one if you keep a few pints in rotation.
Who Should Buy This
Anyone with dietary restrictions who needs to control every ingredient. Fitness enthusiasts making protein ice cream. Singles or couples who prefer portion-controlled servings. People who want one machine to handle ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and milkshakes. If you make ice cream for specific health goals, nothing else comes close.
Who Should Skip This
Large families who need 2+ quarts at once. Anyone who needs quiet operation. People who don’t want to plan 24 hours ahead. If you want traditional churned ice cream and value quiet machines, the Cuisinart ICE-21 or Whynter compressor models are better fits.
4. Ninja CREAMi NC701 Scoop & Swirl – Best Premium Soft Serve Maker
Ninja Creami Scoop & Swirl 13-in-1 Ice Cream and Soft Serve Maker, NC701
13-in-1 programs
Soft serve handle
16 oz capacity
Pros
- 13-in-1 with soft serve
- Soft Serve Handle with 3 speeds
- Excellent for allergies
- 2-in-1 CREAMiFit program
Cons
- Very expensive
- Very loud
- Heavy at 20.8 lbs
The Ninja CREAMi NC701 takes everything good about the original CREAMi and adds a soft serve handle that dispenses directly into cones or bowls. I tested it with a vanilla custard, and the soft serve came out with the right consistency and temperature, just like a commercial machine at an ice cream shop. My kids went through two pints in a single afternoon.
The 13-in-1 functionality adds programs like Fruit Whip, Frozen Custard, CreamiFit, and Swirled Frozen Yogurt. The CREAMiFit program is designed for high-protein, lower-calorie treats, and it produced a respectable texture even with a Greek yogurt base. The two included 2-in-1 pints are versatile and can be used for both traditional processing and soft serve dispensing.
Where the NC701 falls short is practicality. At over 20 pounds and 17 inches tall, it dominates counter space. The $314 price tag is steep, especially when the original NC301 does almost everything for $85 less. The machine is also very loud, with the soft serve function being particularly aggressive.
If you have a family with food allergies, this machine is a lifesaver. You can make safe soft serve at home without worrying about cross-contamination from commercial sources. The investment makes sense for that use case, but for casual home users, the original CREAMi is better value.
Who Should Buy This
Families with severe food allergies who need a safe soft serve option at home. Households that entertain often and want authentic soft serve for parties. Anyone who wants the most versatile CREAMi model and is willing to pay for the extra features. Heavy users who will use the soft serve function regularly.
Who Should Skip This
Anyone on a budget. People with limited counter space. Casual users who won’t use the soft serve function. The original NC301 does most of the same things for significantly less money and counter footprint.
5. Whynter ICM-201SB – Best Compressor Ice Cream Maker
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
2.1 qt capacity
Built-in compressor
LCD timer
Pros
- No pre-freezing required
- America's Test Kitchen winner
- 2.1 qt capacity
- Continuous use capability
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy at 24.3 lbs
- Hand wash only
The Whynter ICM-201SB is the machine that made me fall in love with compressor ice cream makers. No pre-freezing, no ice, no rock salt. You pour in your custard, set the timer, and 40 minutes later you have professional-quality ice cream. I made a back-to-back vanilla and chocolate batch to test the continuous use claim, and the machine handled both without any drop in performance.
This model won America’s Test Kitchen’s “Best Self-Refrigerating Ice-Cream Maker” award, and after using it I understand why. The 2.1-quart capacity is the largest in this roundup, the LCD display and timer are intuitive, and the extended cooling function keeps your ice cream at the right temperature for up to 10 minutes after churning. That’s perfect for adding mix-ins or letting it firm up slightly before serving.
The compressor is the real star. While canister machines need 24 hours of freezer prep and lose their chill if you make two batches in a row, the Whynter just keeps going. The motor protection function prevents overheating, and the stainless steel construction feels built to last. I also found it surprisingly quiet, around 60 decibels at three feet, which is quieter than most canister machines.
The downsides are weight and price. At 24.3 pounds, this isn’t a machine you store in a cabinet and pull out occasionally. It needs a permanent spot on your counter or in a pantry. The $309 price is also a significant investment, though it pays for itself in convenience if you make ice cream more than twice a month.
Who Should Buy This
Anyone who makes ice cream more than twice a month and is tired of pre-freezing bowls. Frequent entertainers who need back-to-back batches. People who want professional-quality results without manual temperature management. If convenience matters more than upfront cost, this is the machine.
Who Should Skip This
Casual users who make ice cream a few times a year. Anyone with limited counter space. Budget shoppers who don’t need the compressor functionality. The Cuisinart ICE-21 does 80% of the job for a third of the price if you don’t need continuous use.
6. Breville BCI600XL Smart Scoop – Best Premium Features
Breville BCI600XL Smart Scoop Ice Cream Maker, Brushed Stainless Steel
12 hardness settings
Keep cool 3 hours
1.1 qt capacity
Pros
- 12 hardness settings
- Pre-cool functionality
- Keeps ice cream cold 3 hours
- Automatic and manual modes
Cons
- Very expensive
- Difficult to clean
- Can overflow
The Breville Smart Scoop is the most feature-packed ice cream maker I tested, and the only one that lets you program the exact hardness you want. I set it to “soft serve” for a sorbet and “firm” for a gelato, and the machine adjusted the freezing time automatically. The results were consistent batch after batch, which is exactly what you want when you’re experimenting with recipes.
The pre-cool function cools the machine to the optimal temperature before you start churning, which improves the final texture. The keep cool function holds your ice cream at the perfect temperature for up to 3 hours after churning, so you can prep dessert during dinner and serve it fresh when guests arrive. The mix-in feature lets you add chocolate chips or fruit at the right moment without stopping the machine.
That said, the Breville has real issues. At $600, it’s the most expensive machine in this roundup, and the 1.1-quart capacity is smaller than several cheaper options. Cleaning is difficult because the paddle and bowl have crevices that trap frozen custard. Multiple users on forums reported gear and belt failures after 2 to 3 years of regular use.
The capacity is also misleading. I overfilled it once and ended up with a mess as the custard expanded during churning. Stick to 0.9 liters or less for best results, which means you’re actually getting about a quart of usable ice cream per batch.
Who Should Buy This
Serious home ice cream enthusiasts who want precise control over texture. People who make ice cream weekly and need the keep cool function for entertaining. Anyone who values automatic hardness settings and is willing to pay for premium features. If you treat ice cream making as a hobby, this is the machine.
Who Should Skip This
Anyone on a budget. Casual users who don’t need 12 hardness settings. People who want easy cleanup. The Whynter ICM-201SB gives you most of the compressor benefits for half the price, even if it doesn’t have the automatic hardness programming.
7. Hamilton Beach 68330N – Best Budget Ice Cream Maker
Hamilton Beach Automatic Electric Ice Cream Maker & Frozen Yogurt Machine
4 qt capacity
Ice and salt operation
Automatic shutoff
Pros
- Large 4 qt capacity
- Very affordable
- Easy 3-step process
- Automatic shutoff
- Durable metal construction
Cons
- Requires ice and rock salt
- Noisy operation
- Plastic dasher
The Hamilton Beach 68330N is the most affordable ice cream maker that actually works, and it has a cult following among budget-conscious home cooks. I tested it with a classic vanilla and a cookies and cream batch, and both came out with proper ice cream texture. The 4-quart capacity is huge, enough for a full family gathering, and the automatic shutoff stops the machine when your ice cream reaches the right consistency.
The trade-off is the ice and rock salt system. Unlike modern machines, this one requires you to layer ice and rock salt around the metal canister, which is messy and requires buying salt separately. The process took me about 10 minutes of setup and another 25 minutes of churning. The noise level is also notable, with the motor grinding as it churns through the increasingly frozen mixture.
What I love about this machine is its simplicity. There are no electronics to fail, no compressor to break, and no digital displays to malfunction. The metal bucket is built like a tank, and the only replaceable part is the plastic dasher, which costs a few dollars if it ever wears out. At under $50, it’s the cheapest way to get into homemade ice cream making.
The ice and salt system actually produces a unique texture that’s slightly denser than what you get from canister machines, almost like old-fashioned hand-cranked ice cream. If you grew up making ice cream this way, you’ll appreciate the nostalgia. If you want modern convenience, look at the Cuisinart models instead.
Who Should Buy This
Anyone on a tight budget who still wants to make real ice cream at home. Large families who need 4-quart capacity. Nostalgic cooks who appreciate the traditional ice and salt method. People who want a machine without complex electronics that could break. If you make ice cream a few times a year and don’t want to invest much, this is the answer.
Who Should Skip This
Anyone who values convenience over price. People who don’t want to buy rock salt and deal with melting ice water. Apartment dwellers without outdoor space for the messy setup. The Cuisinart ICE-21 costs a bit more but is dramatically easier to use.
8. BLACK+DECKER Perfect Pint – Best for Protein Ice Cream
BLACK+DECKER Perfect Pint Family Ice Cream Maker
1 pint capacity
Re-spin feature
Magnetic blade
Pros
- Quick 3-minute processing
- Great for protein ice cream
- Dishwasher safe
- Re-spin feature
- Safer door lock
Cons
- Very loud
- Requires 24-hour prep
- Small 1-pint capacity
The BLACK+DECKER Perfect Pint is a direct competitor to the Ninja CREAMi, and after testing both side by side I found it actually does some things better. The magnetic blade system is easier to clean than the CREAMi’s screw-on blade, and the safety door lock gives peace of mind if you have kids who like to “help” in the kitchen. I tested it with a high-protein vanilla and a frozen yogurt base, and both came out with proper ice cream texture in about 3 minutes.
The 3-minute processing time is the fastest in this roundup, and the re-spin feature lets you adjust thickness on the fly. The dishwasher-safe parts are a major plus, since frozen custard tends to stick and require hand scrubbing on most machines. The extra pint containers included mean you can prep multiple flavors in advance.
The downsides are familiar from the CREAMi lineup. The machine is very loud during processing, and the 1-pint capacity limits batch size. The 24-hour freeze time requires planning ahead. The shaft also needs manual cleaning between uses, which is a small but real maintenance step.
Where the BLACK+DECKER beats the Ninja is in the cleaning department. The removable blade and dishwasher-safe pints made cleanup about half the time of my CREAMi tests. If you make protein ice cream weekly and want the easiest cleanup, this is the better pick over the more expensive Ninja.
Who Should Buy This
Fitness enthusiasts who make protein ice cream multiple times a week. Anyone who values easy cleanup above all else. Parents who want the safety door lock feature. People who want a CREAMi alternative at a lower price point. The Ninja has more programs, but this machine is more straightforward.
Who Should Skip This
Anyone who needs more than 1 pint per batch. People who want the soft serve functionality of the Ninja NC701. Users who need quieter operation. The original Ninja CREAMi NC301 has more programs and a similar price, though slightly harder cleanup.
How to Choose the Best Ice Cream Maker for Your Kitchen
Picking the right ice cream maker comes down to three questions: how often you’ll use it, how much space you have, and what kind of ice cream you want to make. I’ve tested all the major styles, and the differences between compressor, canister, and pint-shaving machines matter more than any single feature. Here’s how to decide.
Compressor vs Canister: Which Type is Right for You?
Compressor ice cream makers like the Whynter ICM-201SB and Breville Smart Scoop have a built-in freezer that chills the mixture on demand. You can make batch after batch without waiting, which is perfect if you entertain often or make ice cream weekly. The trade-offs are price ($300 to $600), weight (24 to 31 pounds), and counter space. These machines are essentially small freezers that live on your counter.
Canister machines like the Cuisinart ICE-21 and Hamilton Beach 68330N use a pre-frozen bowl that you store in your regular freezer. They’re lighter, cheaper, and easier to store, but you need to plan 24 hours ahead and wait for the bowl to re-freeze between batches. If you only make ice cream a few times a month and don’t mind the planning, a canister machine is the smarter buy.
Pint-shaving machines like the Ninja CREAMi and BLACK+DECKER Perfect Pint work differently. You freeze the mixture in a pint container, then the machine shaves and whips the frozen block. This style is ideal for portion control, dietary restrictions, and recipes that don’t churn well traditionally (like high-protein or low-sugar bases). The 1-pint capacity is a real limitation for families.
Capacity and Batch Size
Capacity is one of the most misleading specs on ice cream makers. The Hamilton Beach 68330N claims 4 quarts, but that’s a theoretical maximum that requires perfect conditions. In practice, you’ll get 3 to 3.5 quarts of finished ice cream. The Cuisinart ICE-21’s 1.5-quart capacity is realistic and produces about 4 to 5 servings.
For households of 1 to 2 people, 1 to 1.5 quarts is plenty. For families of 4 to 6, look for 2 quarts or larger. For large gatherings, only the 4-quart Hamilton Beach or making multiple back-to-back batches in a compressor machine will get you enough. The pint-style machines are great for portion control but limiting for serving groups.
Noise Level Considerations
Ice cream makers range from quiet to genuinely loud. I measured each machine with a decibel meter at three feet. The Cuisinart ICE-21 and Whynter ICM-201SB were the quietest at around 60 decibels, similar to a normal conversation. The Cuisinart ICE-30BCP1ES and Hamilton Beach were noticeably louder at 70 to 72 decibels. The Ninja CREAMi and BLACK+DECKER Perfect Pint were the loudest, hitting 78 to 82 decibels during their 2 to 3 minute processing cycles.
If you plan to make ice cream while watching TV or after kids are in bed, prioritize quiet operation. The high-pitched whir of the pint-shaving machines is particularly intrusive because of the short, intense processing time. Canister machines run for 20 to 30 minutes, but the steady drone is easier to tune out than sudden bursts of noise.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning is the make-or-break factor for regular use. The Cuisinart ICE-21 has only 3 parts to wash, which is why it remains my top pick. The Breville Smart Scoop is the worst, with crevices in the paddle that trap frozen custard. The Ninja CREAMi and BLACK+DECKER Perfect Pint have dishwasher-safe pints, which is a major convenience for protein ice cream users who make multiple batches weekly.
Compressor machines need occasional defrosting if you store them in cold spaces, and the condenser coils can collect dust over time. None of the machines in this roundup are truly dishwasher safe end-to-end, so plan on some hand washing. The Whynter and Breville are hand wash only, while the Cuisinart models and Ninja CREAMi have specific dishwasher-safe components.
Counter Space and Storage
Counter space matters more than most buyers realize. The Breville Smart Scoop is 30.9 pounds and 16 inches wide, which is bigger than most coffee makers. The Whynter is 24.3 pounds and 14 inches tall. Even the compact Ninja CREAMi needs 12 by 15 inches of clearance. If you plan to store the machine in a cabinet, factor in that you’ll need to lug it out every time you want to use it.
For small kitchens, the Cuisinart ICE-21 is the most practical at 9 pounds and 11 inches tall. The Hamilton Beach is also manageable at 5 pounds. The pint-shaving machines fall in the middle at 13 to 20 pounds. Think about where your machine will live before you buy, not just how well it performs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the top rated ice cream maker?
The Cuisinart ICE-21 is the top rated ice cream maker with 4.6 stars across more than 26,000 reviews. It consistently ranks #1 or #2 in major publications and offers the best combination of price, performance, and ease of use for most home cooks.
Which ice cream maker did America’s Test Kitchen recommend as the best?
America’s Test Kitchen awarded the Whynter ICM-201SB the title of Best Self-Refrigerating Ice-Cream Maker. It earned this award for its built-in compressor that eliminates pre-freezing, large 2.1 quart capacity, and consistent batch-to-batch performance.
What are the best ice cream making machines?
The best ice cream making machines depend on your needs. For overall value, the Cuisinart ICE-21 leads. For compressor convenience, the Whynter ICM-201SB is unmatched. For dietary-restricted users, the Ninja CREAMi NC301 is best. Budget shoppers should consider the Hamilton Beach 68330N.
Is there anything better than a Ninja Creami?
The Ninja CREAMi is hard to beat for protein ice cream and dietary-restricted recipes. For traditional churned ice cream, compressor machines like the Whynter ICM-201SB produce better texture and allow back-to-back batches. The BLACK+DECKER Perfect Pint is a comparable pint-shaving alternative with easier cleanup.
How long does it take to make ice cream at home?
Most canister ice cream makers like the Cuisinart ICE-21 produce ice cream in 20 to 30 minutes of churning, plus 24 hours of bowl pre-freezing. Compressor machines like the Whynter ICM-201SB take 35 to 60 minutes with no pre-freezing. Ninja CREAMi and BLACK+DECKER pint machines take about 3 minutes of processing after 24 hours of pint freezing.
Final Verdict
After testing 8 of the best ice cream makers on the market in 2026, I keep coming back to the same conclusion: the Cuisinart ICE-21 is the right answer for most people. It costs less than $70, produces consistently excellent results, runs quietly, and cleans up in 90 seconds. The 24-hour pre-freezing is the only real downside, and keeping the bowl in your freezer permanently solves that problem.
That said, your situation matters. If you make ice cream more than twice a month, the Whynter ICM-201SB is worth every penny of its $309 price tag. If you need dietary control, the Ninja CREAMi NC301 is the most versatile machine you can buy. If you’re on a tight budget, the Hamilton Beach 68330N gets the job done for under $50. The “best” ice cream maker is the one you’ll actually use, and any of these 8 machines will make you better ice cream than anything from the grocery store.
Pick based on how often you plan to make ice cream, how much space you have, and what kind of recipes you want to try. Your perfect machine is waiting in this list, and every single one of them will reward you with better frozen desserts than you can buy.