10 Best Ice Cream Maker Machines 2026 in the United States

The Lello Musso Pola 5030 Dessert Maker is a robust, high-capacity ice cream machine designed for those who are serious about their frozen desserts. Its 2-quart capacity allows you to make a significant amount in one go, and it's capable of producing up to 6 quarts per hour. Made entirely of stainless steel, this machine is both durable and visually appealing with its classic finish.

One standout feature is its self-contained freezing unit, which means you don't need to pre-freeze any bowls—this can save you time and hassle, making the machine quite convenient to use. Additionally, being manufactured in Italy often suggests a high level of craftsmanship and quality materials. It's fully automatic, which simplifies the process of making ice cream, frozen yogurt, or gelato.

However, the machine is quite heavy, weighing in at 69.4 pounds, which could make it difficult to move or store. Also, its size (20”L x 14”W x 12.25”H) means it will take up a substantial amount of countertop space. Some may find the need for hand washing to be a bit cumbersome. This machine is best suited for enthusiasts or semi-professional users who need to make large quantities of ice cream efficiently and are willing to invest in a higher-end product.

The Cuisinart ICE-70P1 is a solid choice if you want to make homemade ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt, or sorbet quickly and easily. With a 2-quart capacity, it’s well suited for families or small gatherings. One of its best features is the relatively fast churning time—ready in about 20 minutes—which is quite convenient compared to many other ice cream makers that take longer. It uses an automatic freezing method, so you don’t have to pre-freeze the bowl, which saves time and effort. The machine includes a user-friendly LCD screen with a countdown timer and auto shutoff, making it easy to operate even if you’re new to ice cream making. The lid has an ingredient spout and measuring cup integrated, which helps add mix-ins without making a mess.

Noise level is generally moderate, typical for machines with a motor and compressor, so it’s not too loud but noticeable. Its brushed chrome finish looks sleek and fits well in most kitchens. On the downside, it requires hand washing, which might be a bit inconvenient, and while it’s fairly compact, it’s a bit heavy at over 10 pounds, so it’s not the most portable. Also, while it’s praised for ease of use, it doesn’t have many advanced features beyond the basic settings, so if you want very customizable options, this might feel limited.

The three-year warranty adds peace of mind. This model is great for home users who want a dependable, straightforward ice cream maker that delivers tasty results without too much fuss.

The Whynter Ice Cream Maker Machine (ICM-201SB) is an upright model with a built-in compressor, eliminating the need for pre-freezing, which makes it very convenient for frequent use. It has a generous capacity of 2.1 quarts, allowing you to make large batches of ice cream, gelato, or sorbet. One of its standout features is its self-cooling technology, meaning you can create desserts quickly using ingredients you trust, without any hassle. The machine's powerful compressor freezer supports continuous use, which can be particularly beneficial if you plan on making multiple batches in one go.

Additionally, it includes an extended cooling function to prevent your ice cream from melting and a motor protection function to safeguard against overheating and potential damages. The BPA-free churn blade adds a layer of safety regarding food quality. The Whynter Ice Cream Maker is also praised for its user-friendly soft-touch LCD control panel, which simplifies operation, and its sleek stainless steel design that complements modern kitchens.

While its advanced features are a major boon, the machine might be a bit noisy during operation due to the built-in compressor. Additionally, its price point might be higher compared to non-compressor models, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. This machine is ideal for users looking for a high-quality, convenient, and stylish ice cream maker that can handle regular use without needing pre-freezing.