Top 10 Best Ice Cream Makers 2025 – Our Top 10 Picks for Every Budget
Nothing beats the satisfaction of making your own ice cream—fresh, creamy, and tailored to your taste. Whether you want quick weeknight treats, family-sized batches, or gourmet gelato, the right ice cream maker can make it happen.
To save you time and guesswork, we’ve handpicked the 10 best ice cream makers of 2025, chosen for their performance, ease of use, customer feedback, and overall value.
Types of Ice Cream Makers: What You Should Know
Before jumping into our top picks, it’s helpful to understand the four main types of ice cream makers. Each has its own strengths and suits different needs:
1. Salt and Ice (Manual or Electric) Ice Cream Makers:
A traditional method that uses rock salt and ice to freeze the mixture while churning. These are great for nostalgic experiences or large batches but can be messy and time-consuming.
2. Pre-Freeze Bowl Ice Cream Makers:
These use a pre-frozen bowl that you keep in your freezer. They’re affordable, compact, and easy to use—but require some planning ahead since the bowl needs to freeze for 16–24 hours before use.
3. Built-in Compressor Ice Cream Makers:
These are high-end machines with a built-in compressor to freeze the ice cream base. Just pour in your ingredients and press start—no pre-freezing needed. They’re ideal for frequent users and those who want premium, scoop-shop quality results.
4. Creamify™ Technology Machines:
Creamify™ Technology Machines – A unique system popularized by the Ninja Creami series. With this method, you prepare your base in a special container and freeze it for 24 hours. Once frozen, the machine uses powerful blades and the Creamify process to turn it into silky ice cream, gelato, sorbet, shakes, slushies, or even smoothie bowls in just 2 to 4 minutes. It’s fast, versatile, and lets you experiment with a variety of frozen treats.
Now that you know what to look for, let’s dive into our handpicked list of the top 10 ice cream makers that deliver creamy, dreamy frozen desserts—no matter your budget or experience level.
1
#1 BEST SELLER
Ninja CREAMi Deluxe NC501
The Ninja CREAMi Deluxe is a versatile frozen treat powerhouse that lets you whip up ice cream, gelato, sorbet, frozen yogurt, milkshakes, and more. With 11 different programs and XL 24 oz tubs, it delivers family-sized portions and incredible variety. Its Creamify™ Technology transforms your frozen base into smooth, creamy desserts in minutes, while the dual processing feature allows two different mix-in flavors from one batch.
Perfect for those who love customizing flavors and textures, this machine is easy to operate with a simple three-step process—prep, freeze, process. The Re-Spin function ensures a softer, creamier texture, and the included recipe guide sparks endless dessert ideas for creative home chefs.
| Type | Creamify™ Technology |
| Capacity | 48 Ounces liquid |
| Pre-Freeze Requirement | Yes (upto 24 hours) |
| Avg. Churn Time | 3 – 4 minutes |
| Dimensions | 12.01 x 8.42 x 16.69 inches |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Pros
Cons
Rating
9.8/10
2
TOP RATED
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker ICE-30BCP1
This brushed stainless steel ice cream maker from Cuisinart delivers both style and substance. Its double-insulated freezer bowl churns out up to 2 quarts of ice cream, frozen yogurt, or sorbet in under 30 minutes. The large ingredient spout makes adding mix-ins simple, while the fully automatic heavy-duty motor ensures consistent results every time.
With a timeless design and generous capacity, this model is ideal for family gatherings, parties, and summer get-togethers. It’s BPA-free and comes with a three-year limited warranty, making it a reliable investment for years of dessert-making fun.
| Type | Pre-Freeze Bowl |
| Capacity | 2 Quarts |
| Pre-Freeze Requirement | Yes (16 to 24 hours) |
| Avg. Churn Time | 30 minutes |
| Dimensions | 8.3 x 8.5 x 11.5 inches |
| Warranty | 3 Years |
Pros
Cons
Rating
9.7/10
3
HOT TRENDING
Ninja Swirl Ice Cream Maker NC701
The Ninja CREAMi Swirl takes frozen treats to the next level with its 13-in-1 functions and unique soft-serve handle. From classic scoops to creamy swirls, it allows you to control every aspect of your dessert—flavor, texture, and nutrition. The added CreamiFit program caters to low-calorie, high-protein options, making it perfect for health-conscious dessert lovers.
With dishwasher-safe parts and two 16 oz swirl pints, it’s both fun and practical for families. The soft-serve handle with multiple speeds makes swirling cones a blast for kids and adults alike, turning your kitchen into a mini ice cream parlor.
| Type | Creamify™ Technology |
| Capacity | 16 Ounces |
| Pre-Freeze Requirement | Yes (upto 24 hours) |
| Avg. Churn Time | 3 – 4 minutes |
| Dimensions | 15.15 x 10.03 x 17.51 inches |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Pros
Cons
Rating
9.6/10
4
VALUE FOR MONEY
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker ICE-21P1
Compact yet powerful, the Cuisinart ICE-21P1 creates up to 1.5 quarts of ice cream, sorbet, or frozen yogurt in just 20 minutes. Its double-insulated freezer bowl removes the need for ice, while the mixing paddle delivers smooth, consistent results. The transparent lid with a wide spout makes adding ingredients simple and mess-free.
This model’s small footprint makes it a great choice for kitchens with limited space. With a three-year limited warranty and BPA-free construction, it’s a reliable choice for quick, homemade frozen treats.
| Type | Pre-Freeze Bowl |
| Capacity | 1.5 Quarts |
| Pre-Freeze Requirement | Yes (16 to 24 hours) |
| Avg. Churn Time | 20 minutes |
| Dimensions | 9.5 x 9 x 11.25 inches |
| Warranty | 3 Years |
Pros
Cons
Rating
9.4/10
5
BEST AUTOMATIC
Whynter Ice Cream Maker Automatic 201SB
The Whynter ICM-201SB is a premium self-refrigerating ice cream maker that eliminates the need for pre-freezing. Its built-in compressor and 2.1-quart capacity make it ideal for frequent dessert making. The extended cooling feature keeps your treats from melting, while motor protection prevents overheating.
With a sleek stainless steel design and intuitive LCD controls, it’s a stylish addition to any kitchen. Awarded “Best Self-Refrigerating Ice Cream Maker” by America’s Test Kitchen, it delivers professional-quality results at home.
| Type | Built-in Compressor |
| Capacity | 2.1 Quarts |
| Pre-Freeze Requirement | No |
| Avg. Churn Time | 35 – 45 minutes |
| Dimensions | 14.25 x 12.5 x 14.25 inches |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Pros
Cons
Rating
9.3/10
6
TOP SOLD
DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker (Aqua)
Perfect for single servings, the DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker creates ice cream, gelato, sorbet, or frozen yogurt in about 20 minutes. Its double-insulated mug serves as both the mixing bowl and serving dish, eliminating extra cleanup. The built-in ingredient chute lets you add custom mix-ins easily.
Its compact, portable design makes it great for small kitchens, dorms, or office treats. With two bowls included, you can make back-to-back servings without waiting.
| Type | Pre-Freeze Bowl + Base |
| Capacity | 0.5 Pint (0.25 Quart) |
| Pre-Freeze Requirement | Yes (16 to 24 hours) |
| Avg. Churn Time | 20 minutes |
| Dimensions | 7.2 x 5.9 x 6.9 inches |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Pros
Cons
Rating
9.2/10
7
Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker ICE-70P1
This upgraded Cuisinart model adds digital precision to your dessert-making. Its LCD screen, multiple speed settings, and countdown timer give you complete control over texture and consistency. The 2-quart capacity is ideal for families or small parties.
The ingredient spout with integrated measuring cup makes adding mix-ins easy, and the brushed stainless steel housing adds durability and style. Ready in as little as 20 minutes, it’s a versatile option for all types of frozen desserts.
| Type | Pre-Freeze Bowl |
| Capacity | 2 Quarts |
| Pre-Freeze Requirement | Yes (16 to 24 hours) |
| Avg. Churn Time | 20 minutes |
| Dimensions | 9.74 x 8.62 x 13.22 inches |
| Warranty | 3 Years |
Pros
Cons
Rating
9.0/10
8
Cuisinart ICE-100 Ice Cream and Gelato Maker
For those who want professional results without the wait, the Cuisinart ICE-100 features a commercial-quality compressor. It includes separate paddles for ice cream and gelato, ensuring perfect texture for each. The 10-minute Keep Cool feature maintains freshness until you’re ready to serve.
Its 1.5-quart capacity and see-through lid make it easy to monitor the process, while the touchpad controls and LCD display provide precision. No pre-freezing means you can make multiple batches back-to-back.
| Type | Built-in Compressor |
| Capacity | 1.5 Quarts |
| Pre-Freeze Requirement | No |
| Avg. Churn Time | 40 minutes |
| Dimensions | 9.33 x 12 x 9.33 inches |
| Warranty | 3 Years |
Pros
Cons
Rating
8.8/10
9
BEST OLD FASHION
Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker – Old Fashioned
This vintage-style electric ice cream maker combines old-fashioned charm with modern convenience. Its large 6-quart capacity is perfect for parties, and the electric motor does all the churning work for you. Just add ice, salt, and your ingredients for creamy results in about 20 minutes.
The sturdy bucket with a convenient carry handle makes it portable, and it’s compatible with Nostalgia’s ice cream kits for easy flavor options.
| Type | Salt and Ice (Electric) |
| Capacity | 4 & 6 Quarts options |
| Pre-Freeze Requirement | No |
| Avg. Churn Time | 20 – 30 minutes |
| Dimensions | 14 x 14 x 19 inches |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Pros
Cons
Rating
8.5/10
10
Elite Gourmet Maxi-Matic EIM-924L
The Elite Gourmet Maxi-Matic offers a classic ice-and-salt churning method in a 4-quart capacity—great for family gatherings. Its waterproof lined pine bucket ensures durability and prevents leaks, while the electric motor takes the effort out of churning.
With whisper-quiet operation and a simple three-step process, it’s easy to make ice cream, gelato, sorbet, or frozen yogurt.
| Type | Salt and Ice (Electric) |
| Capacity | 4 Quarts |
| Pre-Freeze Requirement | No |
| Avg. Churn Time | 30 – 40 minutes |
| Dimensions | 12.13 x 12.13 x 16.26 inches |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Pros
Cons
Rating
8.5/10
How We Choose and Rank Products?
We start by reviewing hundreds of listings on Amazon.com, focusing on ice cream makers with at least 4.0-star ratings and a strong volume of customer reviews. Products with consistently positive feedback and a proven track record of customer satisfaction move to our shortlist. From there, we evaluate each model using several key factors:
- Type of Machine – We include a variety of ice cream maker types (Canister-Based, Compressor-Based, Salt & Ice, and Creamify™ Technology) so there’s an option for every need and budget.
- Performance & Churn Time – Faster freezing times and consistent textures score higher.
- Capacity – Machines that balance batch size with convenience get preference.
- Ease of Use & Cleaning – User-friendly designs and dishwasher-safe parts rank higher.
- Special Features – Functions like keep-cool settings, multiple speeds, and ingredient spouts add value.
- Durability & Build Quality – Materials, design, and warranty length all factor into longevity.
- Value for Money – We balance features and price to highlight products worth every dollar.
- Sales & Popularity – Amazon Best Seller or Amazon’s Choice badges and high monthly sales show proven market demand.
Our ranking system combines these criteria into an overall score, so each product is evaluated fairly. This way, you get a list that’s not just about what’s popular, but what’s genuinely worth buying.
