The Kitchen Bench
Ice Cream Makers Buying Guide 2027
How to choose ice cream makers: the decisions that actually matter, the mistakes buyers make, and the checks that prevent a wrong purchase.
By The Kitchen Bench Research Team · Updated for 2027 · Independent · Reader-supported · No paid placements
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The decisions that matter
An ice cream maker churns and freezes cream, milk and flavourings into smooth ice cream, sorbet and frozen yoghurt. Compressor models freeze on their own; freezer-bowl models need the bowl frozen solid first.
Compressor vs. freezer bowl
Compressor models make batch after batch without planning. Freezer-bowl models cost less but need 16–24 hours of bowl freezing first.
Capacity
Match the bowl to your household. A small bowl means multiple batches for a family dessert.
Churning and texture
A good dasher incorporates air and scrapes the bowl evenly, giving smooth texture rather than ice crystals.
Add-ins
A chute or opening for mix-ins lets you add chocolate, nuts and fruit without stopping the machine.
Reveal the winner
Every guide hides its No. 1 pick until you tap — then the full comparison follows.
The suspense ends hereReveal the No. 1 pick →Tap to uncover the winner — then compare the rest below.
Ice Cream Makers
Cuisinart Ice 100
Full review — what to verify before buying, who it suits, and the alternatives worth comparing.
Products to buy
Reviewed ice cream makers you can buy from this guide — each card links to its full review and to the retailer price check. Verify the variant, size and capacity for your exact model before ordering.
Ice Cream Makers
Ninja Creami NC301
Full review — what to verify before buying, who it suits, and the alternatives worth comparing.
Ice Cream Makers
Whynter ICM 201SB
Full review — what to verify before buying, who it suits, and the alternatives worth comparing.
Ice Cream Makers
Breville Smart Scoop BCI600XL
Full review — what to verify before buying, who it suits, and the alternatives worth comparing.
Ice Cream Makers
Cuisinart Cool Creations Ice Cream Maker ICE-70
Full review — what to verify before buying, who it suits, and the alternatives worth comparing.
Ice Cream Makers
Cuisinart Frozen Yogurt Ice Cream Maker ICE-21
Full review — what to verify before buying, who it suits, and the alternatives worth comparing.
Ice Cream Makers
Dash My Pint Ice Cream Maker
Full review — what to verify before buying, who it suits, and the alternatives worth comparing.
Guides for your situation
Buying for a specific situation? Each guide below is written for that use — same checks, tuned priorities, same products.
VIP pick — the winner is inside2027
Still deciding? Reveal the No. 1 pick.
The ranked roundup hides its winner until you tap — then shows the full ranking, the checks, and what to verify before buying.
Best Ice Cream Makers →Browse all reviews
Independent · Reader-supported · No paid placements — every pick links to its full review.
The winner is insideWhat to verify before buying
Before you buy any ice cream maker
- ✓ Compressor vs. freezer bowl for your planning habits
- ✓ Bowl capacity for your household
- ✓ Dasher design for texture
- ✓ Mix-in access
Prices and availability change; check the retailer page before buying. Specifications on a retailer listing can differ from the manufacturer sheet — where they conflict, the manufacturer sheet wins, and this site flags the conflict rather than publishing one figure as fact.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the bowl need to freeze?
Usually 16–24 hours at the coldest freezer setting. Check your model's manual.
Why is my ice cream icy?
Too little fat, too slow a freeze, or too much water in the base. A richer base freezes smoother.
Can I make sorbet and frozen yoghurt?
Yes — most machines handle sorbet, frozen yoghurt and sherbet with the right recipes.