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 GreenPan Frost Ice Cream Maker is a versatile and family-friendly appliance designed to make a wide range of frozen treats without needing pre-freezing. Thanks to its built-in compressor, it freezes desserts like soft serve, sorbet, milkshakes, and even frozen cocktails in as little as 15 minutes, which is great if you want quick results without waiting hours. With a generous 4-pint (2-quart) capacity, it’s ideal for families or small gatherings. You can choose from 6 different modes and 7 texture settings, allowing you to customize how soft or firm your ice cream or slushie turns out. The quiet operation is a plus if noise bothers you, and the clear lid lets you watch your treat as it freezes, which is a nice touch.

The machine also offers a handy self-cleaning mode that uses warm water and soap to rinse the mixing bowl and blades, making cleanup less of a chore. It comes with useful accessories like different extrusion tips for soft serve swirls and a recipe booklet to inspire your creations. On the downside, the unit is relatively heavy and takes up a fair amount of counter space, which might be a consideration if you have a smaller kitchen. While it boasts many features, such as a digital display and automatic shut-off, the controls might feel a bit complex initially until you get used to them.

If you’re looking for an all-in-one ice cream and frozen drink maker that works fast and offers plenty of options without needing pre-chilling, this machine represents a solid choice, especially for families who want variety and convenience.

The CUISINART Ice Cream Maker (ICE30BCP1) boasts a brushed stainless steel finish and offers a 2-quart capacity, making it suitable for families or small gatherings. Its fully automatic, heavy-duty motor can whip up frozen desserts or drinks in just 20 minutes, which is quite efficient. The double-insulated freezer bowl ensures a consistent freezing process, though it's crucial to have your freezer set to 0-degrees F for optimal results.

The large ingredient spout is handy for adding mix-ins without a mess, and the retractable cord storage helps keep your countertop neat and tidy. Despite these strengths, the machine does weigh 12 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some users to move around. Additionally, while the operation is straightforward, it’s limited to manual cleaning, which could be a downside for those preferring dishwasher-safe components. The noise level isn’t specifically mentioned, but heavy-duty motors often emit a noticeable hum.

This model is reliable, sizeable, and efficient, making it well-suited for residential use if you’re looking for a good ice cream maker.