Do you like ice cream so much that you would want to make your very own? Would you like the chance to own an ice cream maker but are worried about how much it costs? If yes, then this article is just for you as we review some of the most cost-effective ice cream makers available in the market while also maintaining high standards on production quality. Here, you will see an endorsement of ice maker machines from customers who share the essence and similar viewpoint.
The next section will help you understand why these machines are worth buying.
Why Choose a Cheap Ice Cream Machine?
Before explaining the reason, we need to establish the context. Let's lose focus on the products that are already present in the market and change focus on the product that will be homemade Ice cream. Cost of the ingredients would vary but the end goal would be to have a delicious dessert. In simpler words: You get to control everything. Sounds exciting? It sure is!
The primary benefit of purchasing a cheap ice cream machine for sale is the savings. In contrast with the expensive models that get into the hundreds of dollars, cheaper available machines are still able to offer reasonable performance value. Most of these inexpensive machines are actually some of the best since they can whip up a batch of ice cream in very little time and are perfect for family occasions, parties or simply on a hot day.
What to Look for in a Cheap Ice Cream Machine
When shopping for an ice cream machine, consider the following parameters that will facilitate this process and guarantee value for your money on a cheap ice cream machine. The following are features of interest.
Capacity: Ice cream machines are available in different dimensions with some smaller versions producing a suitable 1 quart and bigger units producing 2 quarts or more. Choose a machine that meets your demands.
Ease of Use: Pick a machine that does not require complex operating systems. Wasting time on complicated set up procedures on an ice cream machine is not worth the trouble.
Churn time: The recommendation is to pour the mix into the machine and use one that processes the ice cream in no less than 20 but no more than 40 minutes because anything longer might pose a challenge the faster treats wanted.
Durability: While affordability is important, durability is also crucial. Search for models that have positive remarks from customers who have used it for quite some time.
Additional Features: Certain ice cream makers have added features such as making sorbet, yogurt, or self-freezing and automatic mixing which can be helpful in enhancing your experience of using the machine but can add to the cost as well.
Top-Rated Cheap Ice Cream Machines
Based on the reviews and the customers’ experiences, here are some of the best cheap ice cream makers that you can buy:
1. Cuisinart ICE-21 1.5-Quart Ice Cream Maker
Cuisinart ICE-21 is one of the most trusted and preferred options in the budget category. According to a lot of users, this machine is easy to use and gets the work done in no time. With a capacity of 1.5 quart, it can make ice cream in around 20 minutes so this is well suited for families with medium or small sizes.
Customer Ratings: 4.6 out of 5 stars (total over 3,000 reviews).
Price: Somewhere around $70.
It is one of the mess-free and easiest machines to use. Though the bowl needs pre-freezing but most of the users do not find it a problem. Also, it has a chance to make sorbet and frozen yogurt as well.
2. Nostalgia ICMP400BLUE 4-Quart Electric Ice Cream Maker
If you want to make 4 quarts of ice cream then you should consider getting the Nostalgia ICMP400BLUE. Sure it takes a long time to churn, 40 to 50 minutes to be exact, but for the price you pay it does a great job and produces great results. Plus, it is a good option for large families or small gatherings.
Without having to worry about stains, customers tend to rave about how easy it is to use and clean this kitchen appliance. Also, it has a self-cranked option for manual use, which makes things a bit more fun.
Price: Around $50.
Customer Ratings: 4.3 stars (based on 1,500+ reviews).
3. Hamilton Beach 68330N 4-Quart Ice Cream Maker
Another option to consider is Hamilton Beach 68330N ice cream maker, which also has a 4-quart capacity. This ice cream maker is good to go for ice cream lovers who want to make a lot of ice cream and not burn a hole in their pocket. Hamilton on the other hand uses ice and salt for its method, which may take slightly longer but does achieve great results.
Customer Ratings: 4.4 stars (based on 1,200+ reviews).
Price: Around $40
The end product is an ice cream which is dense and rich in texture but the process can be slightly labor intensive when compared to self freezing models. It’s quite an old school concept which a lot of the customers seem to appreciate. The setup is also fairly simple.
4. Chef’n Sweet Spot Ice Cream Maker
Now if you are looking for something different and easy to store or carry, look at the Chef’n Sweet Spot Ice Cream Maker. A fun way to make your own ice cream, this maker is both compact and easy to carry. Instead of traditional methods, this model has a freezing plate at its base which allows it to create ice cream quite quickly. It is recommended for those who would only require single servings of ice cream since it is also quite compact, making it perfect for a single individual or a couple.
Customer Ratings: 4.2/5 Stars with over 500 ratings.
Price: Around $25.
The only drawback to this machine seems to be that it is slightly more intensive in terms of manual work. That said, a lot of customers seem to be pleased to see the end result of the machine and how fast it operates. Overall, ideal for anyone who cannot consume large quantities and wants to make a quick serving. Not to mention, one of the cheaper options if you wish to make ice cream at home!
5. Whynter ICM-200LS 2.1-Quart Self-Contained Ice Cream Maker
For a more sophisticated yet cheap ice cream machine, Whynter ICM-200LS is a possible option to consider when shopping around. Its initial costs tend to be higher than those of several other models but it is still very low when compared with units in the upper range. It has a self freezing compressor which means that you do not have to freeze the bowl in advance before using it. It is definitely a great feature that separates it from other machines.
Customer Ratings: 4.5/5. Based on over 1000 reviews
Price: Approximately 250 USD
Although this is on the higher side of the “cheap” end of the spectrum, it does come with a few nice features for the cost including the ability to make not only ice cream, but sorbet, and frozen yogurt as well. Many users have said that they achieve a restaurant quality result while expending the minimum efforts.
Conclusion
Investing in a cheap ice cream machine for sale is a good investment for individuals who like homemade ice creams but at the same time do not like the expensive price tag attached to them. So, whether you are looking for a basic unit or something more complex, the above mentioned are a good collection of machines to choose based on needs and budget. Careful attention to factors like size, difficulty of use and other additional characteristics will leave you with the ideal machine to begin your ice cream making journey. Enjoy churning!
