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An ice cream maker turns simple cream, sugar, and flavorings into smooth homemade ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt. The best are easy to use and clean. We compared the most popular models on Amazon for texture, capacity, and value. Here are the best ice cream makers of 2026.
Frozen-Bowl Ice Cream Maker
Product Description
A simple, affordable frozen-bowl maker that churns up to 1.5 quarts of creamy ice cream in about 20 minutes, no rock salt or ice required.
Compact Frozen-Bowl Maker
Product Description
A budget-friendly, easy-to-use maker that turns out small batches of ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt, ideal for couples and small families.
Bucket-Style Ice Cream Maker
Product Description
A nostalgic ice-and-salt bucket maker for large batches and family gatherings, delivering that classic churned texture in a big capacity.
Self-Freezing Compressor Maker
Product Description
A built-in compressor freezes as it churns, so you can make batch after batch with no pre-frozen bowl, the most convenient (and premium) option.
How to choose an ice cream maker
Choose the freezing method. Frozen-bowl makers are affordable and easy: you pre-freeze the bowl for a day, then churn, which is perfect for occasional treats. Compressor (self-freezing) machines have a built-in freezer so you can make back-to-back batches with no planning, but they cost more and are larger. Old-fashioned ice-and-salt bucket makers handle big family batches and add nostalgia, at the cost of buying ice and salt.
Capacity and what you want to make matter. Most home makers produce 1 to 2 quarts per batch, enough for a family dessert; size up for entertaining or down for two. Beyond ice cream, most machines also make gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt, so pick one with the modes and recipes you will use. Pre-freeze bowls store in the freezer between uses so you are ready on a whim.
Ease of use and cleanup decide how often you reach for it. Look for simple controls, a clear lid with a spout for adding mix-ins, and dishwasher-safe removable parts. A quieter motor is nicer for the 20 to 40 minutes of churning. For frozen-bowl models, remember you must plan ahead and refreeze the bowl fully (often 18 to 24 hours) before each use.
Tips for the creamiest results
Chill your base in the fridge before churning, and for frozen-bowl makers, make sure the bowl is completely frozen solid (shake it; you should hear no liquid sloshing). A cold base and a cold bowl give the smoothest, fastest results.
Add mix-ins like chocolate chips or cookie pieces near the end of churning so they distribute without sinking. Homemade ice cream is softest right after churning; for firmer scoops, transfer it to a container and freeze for a few hours.
Related kitchen guides
Pair it with the best blenders, best stand mixers, and best food storage containers. Browse everything on our Kitchen Tools hub.
Ice cream maker FAQ
How long does churning take? Most frozen-bowl and compressor machines churn a batch in about 20 to 40 minutes; the ice cream comes out soft-serve consistency and firms up after a few hours in the freezer.
Do I have to pre-freeze the bowl? For frozen-bowl models, yes — freeze it solid for 18 to 24 hours first. Compressor machines have a built-in freezer, so you can make batch after batch with no planning.
Final Thoughts
An ice cream maker turns a craving into a fun weekend project with better-than-store results. The frozen-bowl model is the best value all-rounder, while the compressor machine is the premium pick for frequent churning. Choose the freezing method that fits your patience and counter space.
