10 Best Ice Cream Machine 2026 in the United States

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.

The GSEICE Commercial Ice Cream Maker is a robust soft-serve machine ideal for busy businesses like cafés, snack bars, or restaurants that need to serve a high volume of ice cream quickly. It boasts a strong capacity, producing between 26 to 32 liters (6.8 to 8.4 gallons) per hour, enough to serve around 300 customers. The dual system allows making two separate or combined flavors at once, adding versatility to your menu. Its freezing method uses advanced compressors and refrigerant for efficient, fast cooling, while frequency conversion technology reduces electricity costs by up to two-thirds compared to typical machines.

The 10-inch LCD touch screen is a highlight for ease of use, letting you monitor and adjust settings easily without bending down. Cleaning is simplified with a one-click self-cleaning feature and a detachable drip tray, which helps maintain hygiene with less effort. Noise level is relatively low at about 68 decibels, which is quieter than many commercial machines but still noticeable in very quiet environments.

The machine’s size and weight (27.5"x15.6"x28.5" and 293 pounds) mean it needs substantial counter space and a stable setup. It excels in capacity and feature richness, making it a significant investment and best suited for commercial use rather than occasional home use. For busy ice cream or dessert businesses, the GSEICE offers a solid balance of power, flexibility, and energy efficiency, though its size and price might be a bit much for smaller operations.

The GreenPan Frost Ice Cream Maker is a versatile appliance designed for families who want quick and varied frozen treats. It uses a built-in compressor for freezing, so you don’t need to pre-freeze any bowls or containers. This means you can make ice cream, sorbet, slushies, frozen yogurt, and even cocktails simply by adding ingredients and choosing one of its six modes and seven texture settings. The 2-quart (4 pints) capacity is large enough for multiple servings, making it a good fit for family use. One of its standout features is the fast preparation time—frozen treats are ready in about 15 minutes, which is much quicker than many machines that require hours of freezing.

The machine operates quietly thanks to the built-in chiller, so it won't disturb your household while running. Cleanup is made easier with a self-cleaning mode that uses warm water and soap to rinse the mixing parts, though some hand cleaning is still necessary for full maintenance. Additional perks include a clear lid to watch your treats form, a dispenser handle for easy serving, and included accessories like brushes and recipe guides.

The machine is somewhat heavy (around 25 pounds), which might make it less convenient to move or store. Also, while the automatic features are helpful, the plastic parts may not feel as durable as metal alternatives. If you want a flexible, quick, and family-sized ice cream maker that can handle a wide variety of frozen recipes with little noise and no pre-freezing, this model is worth considering. However, if you prefer a lightweight or more basic unit with fewer features, other options might suit you better.