The 7 Best Ice Cream Makers of 2026

Why We Chose This Product:

The Ninja CREAMi XL Deluxe uses a dual-drive motor system that micro-shaves frozen solid blocks into custom ice cream and slushes. Its 24 oz XL tubs hold 50 percent more volume than standard models, and its top/bottom processing modes allow making two distinct flavor profiles in a single pint.

Who Is It For:

Families of 3–5 who want to batch-prepare customized frozen desserts or two distinct flavors in a single tub. Pick a simpler freezer-bowl model if you prefer liquid-to-ice-cream churning without 24-hour tub preparation.

Why We Chose This Product:

The Cuisinart ICE-21 provides an accessible entry point to classic ice cream making with its double-insulated bowl and motorized mixing paddle. It transforms liquid bases into smooth 1.5-quart batches in under 20 minutes without complex electronics or digital menus.

Who Is It For:

First-time ice cream makers who want an intuitive, budget-friendly machine for classic milk-and-cream recipes. Choose a compressor model if you intend to make back-to-back batches for party guests.

Why We Chose This Product:

The Scoop & Swirl NC701C adds a specialized soft-serve dispensing lid and bottom-dispensing handle assembly to Ninja's micro-shaving platform. Its 13 speed-tailored programs and 2-in-1 CreamiFit mode process high-protein or low-calorie bases into creamy swirled textures.

Who Is It For:

Dessert enthusiasts who specifically want swirled soft-serve textures and high-protein or low-sugar recipes. Pick the CREAMi XL Deluxe if you want larger batch sizes without the soft-serve dispensing mechanism.

Why We Chose This Product:

The Cuisinart Pure Indulgence handles larger 2-quart batches in a durable brushed metal housing. Its heavy-duty motor and low-speed paddle deliver consistent aeration for rich traditional ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt.

Who Is It For:

Larger households wanting a sturdy, high-capacity traditional churner for classic recipes. Choose the Ninja XL Deluxe if you want to make individual frozen drinks and slushes alongside scoopable desserts.

Why We Chose This Product:

Twirly Rollz offers a completely electricity-free freeze plate setup that turns liquid cream or yogurt into rolled ice cream in minutes. The complete kit includes food-grade spatulas and a recipe book, making it an engaging activity kit for kids.

Who Is It For:

Parents looking for a safe, hands-on dessert activity for kids and birthday parties. Pick an electric churner if you want to make full 1.5-quart tubs of ice cream for routine dessert serving.

Why We Chose This Product:

The Climafusion Instant Ice Cream Maker relies on a pre-frozen gel pan to freeze thin layers of ice cream base on contact. Its cordless, non-electric setup makes it simple to move outdoors for warm-weather dessert activities.

Who Is It For:

Outdoor dining enthusiasts and families wanting a portable freeze pan for backyard picnics. Choose a compressor slush machine if you need continuous frozen output during outdoor events.

Why We Chose This Product:

NEOISM uses a active cooling compressor to flash-freeze juices, coffee, and spirits into slushies without ice cubes, preventing drink dilution. With 6 programs and a 12-hour delay timer, it keeps drinks at the ideal frozen consistency for hosting gatherings.

Who Is It For:

Hosts who regularly entertain groups and want bar-quality frozen margaritas, frappes, and slushies on demand. Choose a traditional ice cream maker if you prefer scoopable hard ice cream over icy beverages.