10 Best Ice Cream Maker Machine 2026 in the United States

The Ninja CREAMi Deluxe NC501 is a versatile ice cream maker designed for home use, especially if you enjoy variety in frozen treats like ice cream, sorbet, frozen yogurt, and milkshakes. It uses a unique freezing method where you prepare your mix, freeze it overnight in special XL 24 oz. tubs, and then process it with a dual-drive motor that creates creamy texture in minutes. The XL tubs hold about 3 pounds total, fitting well for family-sized portions.

Its 11-in-1 programs and customizable settings let you tailor recipes for low sugar, dairy-free, or protein-rich options, which is great for special diets or personal preferences. The dual processing feature allows creating two different flavors from one batch, adding flexibility. Using the machine is straightforward—prepare, freeze, then process—though you need to plan ahead due to the overnight freeze step. The re-spin function lets you adjust creaminess after the first cycle, improving texture to your liking.

The machine operates relatively quietly compared to some competitors, and dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup easier. However, it is a bit bulky and weighs over 14 pounds, which could be a consideration if space is limited. Also, it only works with Ninja CREAMi NC500 series tubs, so older or different-sized containers are not compatible. For those seeking a family-friendly, customizable ice cream maker with multiple options beyond just ice cream, the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe is a strong option, although advance freezing time and dedicated storage space for its larger tubs should be taken into account.

The Ninja NC301 CREAMi is a versatile ice cream maker designed for home use, capable of making not only ice cream but also gelato, sorbet, milkshakes, and smoothie bowls. It uses a unique Creamify Technology to transform frozen bases into smooth, creamy treats. With a 1-pint capacity per container and two pint containers included, it's suitable for small batches, which works well for families or individuals but might require multiple cycles for larger groups. The machine operates automatically with 7 one-touch programs that adjust speed and pressure for different textures, making it user-friendly even for beginners. Preparations do require freezing your base overnight, so it’s not for quick, last-minute treats.

The machine runs at 800 watts and includes features like a re-spin option for softer results, and it is relatively quiet compared to traditional ice cream makers. Cleanup is easy since the containers and paddles are dishwasher safe. The compact size and silver stainless steel finish make it a good fit for kitchens with limited space and for kids to use under supervision. On the downside, it only works with specific Ninja CREAMi pint containers, limiting flexibility if you want to use other accessories. Also, the 1-pint size is smaller than some other machines, which could be a drawback if you want to make larger quantities quickly.

This ice cream maker is ideal for anyone who enjoys customizing frozen treats with control over ingredients and textures, especially those who value convenience and variety rather than volume.

The Lello 4080 Musso Lussino Ice Cream Maker is a high-quality machine with a 1.5-quart capacity, making it suitable for small to medium batches of ice cream or sorbet. It's designed for efficiency, capable of freezing up to 3 quarts per hour. The machine operates fully automatically, requiring you to simply pour in the ingredients and press two buttons, making it very user-friendly.

The timer feature allows for precise control over different types of frozen treats, which is a significant advantage for those who enjoy experimenting with various recipes. Constructed with stainless steel for both the housing and internal components, this machine is durable and easy to clean, although it requires hand washing. However, the unit is quite heavy at nearly 40 pounds, which may make it less convenient to move around or store.

Additionally, its size (18 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 11 inches high) requires adequate counter space. The machine is also noted for its noise, which can be a drawback for some users. Despite these factors, it enjoys positive customer reviews (4.6 out of 5 stars from 978 ratings), indicating general satisfaction with its performance. This ice cream maker is best suited for those who prioritize quality and durability and have the space to accommodate its larger footprint.