In the world of culinary arts, the right tools can transform an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast. The same goes for making frozen delights such as ice cream, sorbet, gelato, and frozen yogurt. You don’t have to spend a fortune to make these delicious treats at home. You just need the right ice cream maker. But with so many options on the market, how do you pick the best one that suits your needs and fits your budget?
We’ve done the heavy lifting for you and scoured the market for the best ice cream makers under $100. Whether you’re a fan of traditional flavors or love experimenting with vegan and dairy-free options, there’s something here for everyone. These ice cream makers deliver high performance without breaking the bank, making homemade frozen treats more accessible and enjoyable than ever.
Best Ice Cream Makers Under $100 Review and Buying Guide
When choosing an ice cream maker, consider factors such as its capacity, operation mode, care instructions, and special features. For instance, the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker with its double-insulated freezer bowl and 2-qt capacity is great for serving a crowd. If you prefer a vintage look, the Nostalgia and Elite Gourmet options feature charming wood bucket designs. For health-conscious users, Yonanas and NutriChef provide options for making vegan and dairy-free treats.
No matter your preference, each of these ice cream makers promises delicious results. Our top 10 list helps you make an informed decision while keeping your budget in check. So, go ahead and explore the world of homemade frozen desserts with our affordable, top-quality picks.
Discover the 10 Best Ice Cream Makers under 100$!
1. Hamilton Beach Automatic Solution Review
Experience the delight of crafting your homemade frozen treats with the Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Ice Cream Maker. This versatile machine transforms your kitchen into a personal creamery, allowing you to whip up not just ice cream, but also frozen yogurt, custard, sorbet, and gelato. Its sleek, white exterior, combined with a sturdy metal construction, provides an elegant and practical addition to any countertop. With dimensions measuring 15.3 x 12.5 x 11.1 inches and weighing a comfortable 5 pounds, it fits seamlessly into most kitchens.
The standout feature of the Hamilton Beach Ice Cream Maker is its generous 4-quart capacity, making it a perfect choice for large families, parties, or anyone with a sweet tooth. It comes equipped with a detachable freezer and an automatic operation mode, simplifying the ice cream making process. This machine is designed for convenience, where all you need to do is add your ingredients, select your preferred setting, and let the machine work its magic. The result? Perfectly textured, deliciously creamy, and home-made frozen treats at your disposal.
The beauty of the Hamilton Beach Ice Cream Maker lies in its simplicity and practicality. It merges user-friendly operation with the flexibility to create a variety of frozen treats, right from the comfort of your home. Its compact design and automated functions make it a suitable choice for those new to the ice cream making process and seasoned home cooks alike. With this machine, your favorite frozen dessert is only a few easy steps away.
Pros:
- 4-quart capacity for larger batches
- Automated operation for ease of use
- Versatile – makes ice cream, frozen yogurt, custard, sorbet, and gelato
- Detachable freezer for convenient cleaning
Cons:
- Limited to one color option
- Requires pre-freezing the bowl
- MAKES ENOUGH ICE CREAM FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: The ice cream maker's large 4 quart capacity...
- PREPARE A VARIETY OF FROZEN TREATS: Easily prepare homemade ice cream, frozen yogurt,...
2. Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Review
Unleashing your inner ice cream chef is now more convenient than ever with the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker. This gem from the renowned manufacturer Cuisinart is an impressive blend of functionality, style, and affordability. Finished in a sleek brushed chrome design, this machine adds a contemporary touch to your kitchen decor while opening a gateway to a delightful world of homemade frozen treats. With dimensions of 8.25 x 8 x 11.25 inches and a weight of 13.5 pounds, this compact machine is easy to store and maneuver, making it a perfect addition to your culinary arsenal.
One of the prime features of the Cuisart Ice Cream Maker is its impressive 2-Quart double-insulated freezer bowl. This large-capacity bowl allows you to prepare generous amounts of your favorite ice cream, frozen yogurt, or sorbet in one go. This can be particularly useful when you have guests over or if your family has a penchant for frozen desserts. The double-insulated walls of the bowl ensure consistent freezing throughout the churning process, delivering creamy, smooth, and evenly frozen results every time. With this feature, you can serve up restaurant-quality desserts right from your kitchen counter.
The Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker showcases a no-fuss, user-friendly operation that can make anyone feel like a seasoned ice cream artisan. This machine is powered by a robust motor that ensures efficient and even churning for perfect consistency. It’s straightforward to use – just pour in your ingredients and switch the machine on. The fully automatic operation takes care of the rest, leaving you free to go about other tasks or simply relax as your icy treat comes to life. The Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker is a celebration of convenience, versatility, and affordable luxury, all bundled into one powerful package.
Pros:
- High capacity 2-Quart freezer bowl
- User-friendly operation
- Sleek brushed chrome design
- Robust motor for efficient churning
- Double-insulated bowl for consistent freezing
Cons:
- Might be heavy for some users
- Not suitable for making small batches
- SUPERIOR FUNCTIONALITY: This brushed stainless steel fully automatic heavy-duty motor...
- MUST-HAVE FEATURES: Large ingredient spout for easily adding favorite mix-ins including a...
3. Experience Nostalgia With An Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Maker Review
Creating your favorite frozen delicacies takes on a charming twist with the Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker. Designed with an appealing vintage aesthetic, this machine encapsulates the old-world charm of making ice cream at home. From the exterior with a dark wood finish to the 6-quart capacity, everything about this ice cream maker screams grandeur and tradition. Measuring 13 x 13 x 20 inches and weighing a sturdy 9.9 pounds, this appliance is sure to make a striking statement in your kitchen and spark conversations around the dinner table.
Whether you’re craving a big bowl of creamy ice cream, refreshing sorbet, or lusciously smooth gelato, the Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker has got you covered. The expansive 6-quart capacity makes it ideal for large gatherings or those who simply can’t get enough of their favorite icy treats. This machine is more than just a practical addition to your kitchen; it’s an experience that brings back fond memories of churning ice cream by hand and the anticipation that builds up as the creamy delight takes shape.
Operating the Nostalgia Ice Cream Maker is as delightful as the aesthetic it brings. The electric motor does the churning, eliminating the need for manual labor while ensuring that your ice cream has the perfect texture every time. Moreover, its ability to create not just ice cream, but also frozen yogurt and gelato, makes it a versatile appliance that caters to varying tastes and dietary preferences. In short, the Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker is a celebration of the old and the new, combining retro charm with modern convenience to offer you an unmatched ice cream making experience.
Pros:
- Large 6-quart capacity
- Vintage aesthetic appeal
- Electric motor for easy churning
- Versatility in making various frozen treats
Cons:
- Slightly heavier compared to other models
- May require more storage space
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4. Elite Gourmet Ice Cream Making Review
Indulge in a trip down memory lane with the Elite Gourmet Old Fashioned Ice Cream Maker, a machine that perfectly merges tradition and technology. Its eye-catching vintage wooden bucket design captures the essence of old-fashioned ice cream making, while the automatic functions add a touch of modern convenience. This remarkable machine doesn’t just make ice cream – it creates an experience. With dimensions of 15 x 12 x 21.5 inches and a weight of 14.07 pounds, this model is robust and substantial, yet beautifully proportioned for a snug fit in your kitchen.
The Elite Gourmet Ice Cream Maker boasts a hefty 6-quart capacity, making it an excellent option for social gatherings, parties, or just large families who love frozen desserts. It’s not just the size that impresses; the performance does too. The machine is programmable, allowing you to tailor the churning process to the consistency you desire. Moreover, it comes with a bonus classic die-cast hand crank, adding a nostalgic touch to your ice cream crafting and offering an alternative manual operation mode.
Quality and versatility are intrinsic to the Elite Gourmet Ice Cream Maker. The appliance has been designed with the user in mind, ensuring easy assembly, use, and clean-up. Crafted from wood and metal, it is durable and robust, standing the test of time. Whether you wish to create creamy ice cream, delightful gelato, or refreshing sorbet, this ice cream maker stands ready to meet your culinary demands, transforming your ingredients into delectable frozen treats.
Pros:
- Large 6-quart capacity for making big batches
- Programmable for customized ice cream consistency
- Vintage wooden bucket design adds aesthetic appeal
- Bonus die-cast hand crank for manual operation
Cons:
- Slightly heavier, may be cumbersome for some users
- Requires ice and rock salt for operation
- 6-QUART CAPACITY: Freeze up to 6 Quarts of cold and creamy ice cream, gelato, frozen...
- EASY 3 STEP PROCESS: 1) Mix your favorite ingredients and place in canister, 2) assemble...
5. Yonanas 902 Classic A Guilt-Free Indulgence Review
Immerse yourself in the world of healthy and delicious desserts with the Yonanas 902 Classic Frozen Fruit Soft Serve Maker. This unique machine is designed to cater to the dietary needs and preferences of the health-conscious, delivering dairy-free and vegan frozen treats without compromising on taste or texture. At just 7.5 x 6.25 x 13.75 inches in dimension and 1.4 pounds in weight, this compact and lightweight machine is perfect for any kitchen, big or small.
The Yonanas 902 operates under a simple yet innovative concept. It transforms frozen fruit into a creamy, ice cream-like treat, providing a healthier alternative to traditional store-bought ice cream. And don’t be fooled by the machine’s simple exterior. This powerhouse boasts an automatic operation mode and a 200-watt motor capable of processing a wide variety of frozen fruits, allowing you to experiment and create your unique flavors. What’s more, it comes with a recipe booklet that contains 36 exciting ideas to get you started on your health-conscious dessert journey.
The Yonanas 902 Classic isn’t just about delivering delicious and healthy desserts; it’s also about user-friendly operation and maintenance. Constructed from durable stainless steel and plastic, this machine ensures longevity. It’s easy to assemble, easy to use, and even easier to clean, with dishwasher-safe parts that eliminate any post-dessert-making stress. This is the perfect appliance for anyone who loves indulging in frozen treats but wants to keep their health and nutrition in check.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design for easy storage
- Promotes healthy eating with dairy-free and vegan dessert options
- User-friendly operation and easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
- Includes a 36-recipe booklet for flavor inspiration
Cons:
- Limited to a smaller capacity of 0.5 liters
- Requires pre-frozen fruits for operation
- QUICK AND EASY TO USE - Within minutes, easily turn any frozen fruit into a smooth...
- DELICIOUS VERSATILITY - Create your own healthy, vegan, keto, and dairy free treats or use...
6. Yonanas 988RD Deluxe Review
Welcome to a world where you can craft your own guilt-free frozen delights with the Yonanas 988RD Deluxe Frozen Fruit Soft Serve Maker. This vibrant red machine caters to the needs of the diet-conscious individuals who don’t want to give up on their love for frozen desserts. With a slightly larger footprint than its predecessor, this appliance comes in at 10.25 x 6.5 x 9.5 inches and weighs 3.92 pounds, fitting snugly on your countertop without consuming excessive space.
The Yonanas 988RD Deluxe embraces the concept of transforming frozen fruits into a smooth, creamy, ice-cream-like treat without adding any extra sugar, fats, or preservatives. With a 200W motor and automatic operation, the machine processes various types of fruits into a delectable dessert that’s both delicious and healthful. To further stir your creativity, it comes bundled with a book of 75+ recipes, opening up a world of possibilities for your dessert creations, from simple berry blends to more exotic tropical concoctions.
Moreover, this machine doesn’t compromise on user convenience. With a build that’s a blend of durable plastic, it’s designed for long-lasting use. It also offers easy assembly and disassembly, making cleaning a breeze. With dishwasher-safe components, post-dessert cleanup is stress-free, allowing you to indulge in your delicious creations without worrying about the aftermath. The Yonanas 988RD Deluxe is more than just a dessert maker; it’s your passport to exploring the exciting universe of healthy and satisfying frozen treats.
Pros:
- Health-focused design promoting dairy-free and vegan desserts
- Automatic operation with a powerful 200W motor
- Comes with a 75+ recipe book for a broad range of flavor options
- Easy assembly and cleaning with dishwasher-safe parts
Cons:
- Larger than some other models, taking up a bit more countertop space
- Pre-freezing fruits is necessary
- Yonanas Frozen Treat Maker: Easy-to-use vegan dessert maker quickly turns frozen fruit...
- Delicious Versatility: Create your own healthy keto, non-dairy, and vegan frozen treats or...
7. NutriChef NCIM30 Review
NutriChef NCIM30 brings an innovative approach to homemade frozen desserts with its Electric Frozen Fruit Dessert Maker. Its eye-catching design in a charming blue shade is guaranteed to add a splash of color to your kitchen. But this machine isn’t all about looks; it weighs a mere 3.73 pounds and its compact dimensions (8.1 x 5.1 x 12.7 inches) make it an excellent choice for those who value countertop space without compromising on dessert options.
Known for its dedication to creating healthy and delicious treats, the NutriChef NCIM30 offers a uniquely enjoyable experience for dessert lovers who are conscious about their nutrition intake. This machine transforms frozen fruits into mouthwatering desserts, ensuring a perfect treat every time while letting you control the ingredients. The automatic operation makes it remarkably user-friendly; even children can enjoy making their own fun and healthy desserts.
From a functionality standpoint, this machine stands out for its simplicity and ease of use. The appliance is straightforward to assemble and clean, making it ideal for those who wish to enjoy their desserts without the hassle of complex setups or challenging cleaning routines. Additionally, the NutriChef NCIM30 comes with a recipe book, encouraging users to experiment with different flavors and dessert types. Unleashing your creativity has never been easier or more enjoyable than with this versatile dessert maker.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design, great for limited counter space
- User-friendly with automatic operation
- Makes healthy desserts from frozen fruits
- Easy assembly and cleaning
Cons:
- Pre-freezing fruits is required
- May not be as robust as larger models
- MAKE HEALTHY TREATS: The NutriChef Frozen Fruit Dessert Machine makes healthy, vegan, or...
- ONE-TOUCH OPERATION: The mini frozen dessert maker features an easy one-button operation...
8. DASH Everyday Ice Cream Maker Review
Add a dash of fun and color to your kitchen with the DASH Everyday Ice Cream Maker. Boasting a quaint aqua hue, this delightful machine effortlessly combines style and functionality, blending into your kitchen aesthetics while standing out for its efficiency. With a compact 1-quart capacity, this ice cream maker is ideal for small households or those who love to indulge in freshly made portions of their favorite frozen treats.
The DASH Everyday Ice Cream Maker offers more than just ice cream making. This versatile appliance is perfect for whipping up sorbets, frozen yogurt, and even homemade popsicles, making it a sweet addition to your kitchen gadgetry. The lightweight design, at just 4 pounds, combined with its manual operation mode, ensures an engaging and interactive dessert-making experience. The fact that it includes a mixing bowl, popsicle molds, reusable popsicle sticks, and a recipe guide only adds to its user-friendly appeal.
Ease of use and maintenance is another feather in this machine’s cap. The manual operation mode is straightforward and easy to follow, which makes the DASH Everyday Ice Cream Maker a hit among all age groups. From kids who wish to try their hand at creating their own frozen treats to adults who want to customize their desserts with healthy ingredients, this machine caters to all. Its hand wash care instruction ensures easy cleanup after a fun and fruitful dessert-making session.
Pros:
- Compact, lightweight, and stylish design
- Versatile functionality, beyond just ice cream making
- Comes with additional accessories and recipe guide
- User-friendly manual operation
Cons:
- Limited capacity, not ideal for large batches
- Manual operation may require more effort
- TWO IN ONE: Make a quart of delicious ice cream (regular, organic, or dairy free), sorbet,...
- EASY TO USE: Designed with an ingredient spout to simplify making ice-cream. Simply freeze...
9. Americana EIM-1400R Ice-Making Marvel Review
Delightfully cool and wonderfully efficient, the Americana EIM-1400R ice maker brings a frosty freshness to your beverages. A piece of equipment that sits silently in your kitchen or outdoor barbeque area, this ice maker has the capability to transform your party hosting experience, delivering ice cubes in record time. Whether it’s a hot summer’s day or a festive gathering, the EIM-1400R makes sure your guests’ drinks are never lukewarm.
Dive into the details and you’ll find why the Americana EIM-1400R stands out in the bustling market of ice makers. It possesses an impressive ice-making capacity, churning out up to 26 pounds of ice in a single day. A portable unit with a sleek and compact design, it fits comfortably in tight spaces, making it a must-have for small kitchens or busy barbeque areas. Despite its compact size, it doesn’t compromise on the ice storage capacity, holding up to 1.5 pounds of fresh ice at a time.
The operation of the EIM-1400R is a smooth and effortless affair. It comes with easy-to-use electronic controls that allow you to adjust the size of the ice cubes according to your preference. The ice maker is also designed with a transparent window, letting you monitor the ice-making process without opening the lid. Moreover, its efficient and quiet operation ensures your conversations are never interrupted.
Pros:
- High ice-making capacity
- Compact and portable design
- User-friendly electronic controls
- Silent operation
Cons:
- Requires manual water refilling
- Might require frequent cleaning
- Simple Freezing Bowl: The Mr. Freeze automatic ice cream maker comes with a convenient...
- Easy Operation: Easily turn on the unit to churn your ice cream recipe with a simple...
10. Elite Gourmet EIM-308L Icy Excellence Review
Step into a realm of icy convenience with the Elite Gourmet EIM-308L, an ice maker designed to elevate your beverage game to another level. An integral addition to any kitchen or patio space, this compact machine is ready to dispense crisp, refreshing ice cubes at a moment’s notice. With the EIM-308L at your side, you can bid farewell to the frantic ice-tray fillings and embrace effortless entertainment.
Dig a little deeper and you’ll find a plethora of features that make the Elite Gourmet EIM-308L a gem among ice makers. This appliance is capable of producing an impressive 26 pounds of ice per day, ensuring a constant supply for all your cold-drink needs. Not to be fooled by its compact design, the EIM-308L houses a large storage basket that can accommodate up to 1.5 pounds of fresh ice, reducing the need for frequent emptying.
As for functionality, the EIM-308L is a breeze to operate. With intuitive electronic controls, you can easily adjust the ice cube size to fit any occasion. The unit also includes a viewing window that allows you to monitor the ice-making process without lifting the lid. To top it off, the EIM-308L runs quietly, making it an unobtrusive addition to your home or outdoor gatherings.
Pros:
- Ample ice-making capacity
- Compact yet large ice storage
- Easy-to-use electronic controls
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Manual water filling required
- Regular cleaning might be necessary
- WATER PROOF INTERIOR: Distressed and galvanized metal bucket liner for ice cream salt and...
- EASY 3 STEP PROCESS: 1) Mix your favorite ingredients and place in canister, 2) assemble...
Main Consideration When Buying the Best Ice Cream Maker Under $100
Capacity
The size of the ice cream maker can directly influence how much ice cream you can make in one batch. For example, the Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Ice Cream Maker & Frozen Yogurt Machine has a generous 4-quart capacity, while the DASH Everyday Ice Cream Maker is more compact, with a 1-quart capacity.
Special Features
Look out for features that set the device apart from others. The Elite Gourmet Old Fashioned Ice Cream Maker, for instance, has a programmable function, while the Nutrichef NCIM30 Electric Maker includes a recipe book.
Operation Mode
Ice cream makers can be automatic or manual. The Yonanas 902 Classic Vegan and the DASH Everyday Ice Cream Maker both require manual operation, while the Hamilton Beach Ice Cream Maker operates automatically.
Material
Ice cream makers come in a variety of materials, including plastic, stainless steel, and wood. The Elite Gourmet Old Fashioned Ice Cream Maker features a vintage wooden design, while the Yonanas 902 Classic Vegan is constructed of stainless steel and plastic.
Included Components
Additional components included with your ice cream maker can add value to your purchase. The Yonanas 988RD Deluxe Vegan, for instance, comes with a 75+ recipe book, while the DASH Everyday Ice Cream Maker includes popsicle molds and a recipe book.
Product Care Instructions
Most ice cream makers require hand washing, but some components may be dishwasher safe. The Yonanas 902 Classic Vegan is one such model with dishwasher-safe parts.
Product Dimensions & Weight
These factors might affect the portability and storage of your ice cream maker. The Nutrichef NCIM30 Electric Maker is quite compact and light, while the Elite Gourmet Old Fashioned Ice Cream Maker is heavier and larger, suiting different kitchen spaces.
Manufacturer & Country of Origin
Consider reputable brands and countries of origin when choosing your ice cream maker. For instance, the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker and the Nostalgia Electric Ice Cream Maker are both manufactured in China.
Model Number & ASIN
These identifiers help in distinguishing between different models from the same brand. For instance, the model number for the Elite Gourmet EIM-308L is EIM-308L.
Color
While not a factor that impacts functionality, the color of an ice cream maker can influence your decision based on aesthetic preferences. The DASH Everyday Ice Cream Maker, for instance, comes in a vibrant aqua hue.
How do I choose the best ice cream maker for my needs?
When choosing an ice cream maker, consider factors like the device’s capacity, special features, operation mode, material, included components, product care instructions, dimensions and weight, manufacturer, model number, and color. Balancing these features against your specific needs and preferences can help you find the best ice cream maker for your kitchen.
What is the difference between automatic and manual ice cream makers?
Automatic ice cream makers, like the Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Ice Cream Maker, do most of the work for you. Just add your ingredients and turn the machine on. Manual ice cream makers, like the Yonanas 902 Classic Vegan and the DASH Everyday Ice Cream Maker, may require more involvement, such as turning a crank or stirring the mixture.
Can ice cream makers also make other types of frozen treats?
Yes, many ice cream makers can also make other frozen desserts like sorbet, gelato, and frozen yogurt. For example, the Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Ice Cream Maker and the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker are both capable of making a variety of frozen treats.
What is the average capacity of an ice cream maker?
Ice cream makers can vary significantly in size. Compact models like the DASH Everyday Ice Cream Maker have a 1-quart capacity, making them ideal for small families or occasional use. Larger models, like the Hamilton Beach Ice Cream Maker or the Elite Gourmet Old Fashioned Ice Cream Maker, can make up to 4-6 quarts at a time, making them a great choice for larger families or parties.
How do I care for and maintain my ice cream maker?
Most ice cream makers require hand washing to keep them clean and functioning well, although some models, like the Yonanas 902 Classic Vegan, have dishwasher-safe parts. Always refer to the product care instructions provided by the manufacturer for the best practices to maintain your specific model.
Conclusion
Choosing the best ice cream maker under $100 can be a fun yet challenging task, given the variety of options available on the market. After considering the key features like capacity, special features, operation mode, material, and product dimensions, our top pick is the Hamilton Beach Electric Automatic Ice Cream Maker & Frozen Yogurt Machine. With its large 4-quart capacity, automatic operation, and versatile function to make a variety of frozen treats including ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet, and gelato, it offers excellent value for money. Its durable construction, simple use, and easy cleaning requirements make it stand out among other models. While each ice cream maker has its unique features to offer, the Hamilton Beach model is an all-rounder, making it the clear winner in this selection of the best ice cream makers under $100.
- MAKES ENOUGH ICE CREAM FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: The ice cream maker's large 4 quart capacity...
- PREPARE A VARIETY OF FROZEN TREATS: Easily prepare homemade ice cream, frozen yogurt,...
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