Best Ice Cream Makers UK 2025: Tested Gelato & Soft Serve 2026

The best ice cream makers in the UK for gelato, soft serve, and sorbets have been rigorously tested to help you create delicious frozen desserts at home. Whether you're a gelato enthusiast or a fan of creamy soft serve, these machines offer endless possibilities. Our expert reviews cover top brands, performance, and value to guide your purchase.

Why Invest in an Ice Cream Maker?

Owning an ice cream maker saves money and lets you control ingredients. A single tub of premium ice cream can cost nearly £6, and frequent purchases add up quickly. With a home machine, you can produce unlimited batches tailored to your taste.

Homemade ice cream is also healthier, as you can avoid emulsifiers, artificial flavours, and stabilisers common in shop-bought tubs. It's perfect for those with allergies or dairy-free diets, offering a safe and delicious alternative.

Types of Ice Cream Makers

There are two main types: compressor models and pre-freezer bowl models. Compressor machines have built-in freezing units, allowing continuous use without pre-freezing. Pre-freezer bowls require 12-24 hours of freezing before churning, but are more affordable.

For soft serve, dedicated machines like the Ninja Creami offer unique textures. Gelato machines use slower churning for denser, creamier results. Sorbet makers often double as ice cream machines, providing versatility.

Top Picks from Our Testing

We tested 15 popular models across categories, evaluating ease of use, texture, speed, and cleaning. Here are our standout choices:

• Best Overall: Ninja Creami Deluxe – versatile, makes gelato, sorbet, and soft serve with impressive results.
• Best Budget: Andrew James Ice Cream Maker – affordable and reliable for basic ice cream.
• Best Compressor: Cuisinart ICE-100 – professional-grade, no pre-freezing required.
• Best for Gelato: Lello 4080 – authentic gelato texture, but pricey.
• Best Soft Serve: Unold Soft Ice Cream Maker – easy to use, fun for families.

Comparison Table

Key Takeaways for Buyers

Before purchasing, consider your budget, available counter space, and how often you'll use the machine. Compressor models are more convenient but cost more. Pre-freezer bowls are economical but require planning.

• Check the capacity – larger families need bigger bowls.
• Look for easy-to-clean parts – removable bowls and paddles.
• Consider noise levels – some compressors are louder than others.
• Read reviews for reliability and after-sales support.

How We Tested

Our testing process involved making vanilla ice cream, strawberry sorbet, and chocolate gelato in each machine. We timed churning, assessed texture and flavour, and cleaned each unit thoroughly. We also considered build quality and warranty.

Each machine was used at least three times to ensure consistency. We measured ease of use, from setup to serving. Our team of home cooks and appliance experts provided unbiased feedback.

FAQ

FAQ

In conclusion, the best ice cream maker for you depends on your needs and budget. Our top pick, the Ninja Creami Deluxe, offers unmatched versatility and performance. For those on a tighter budget, the Andrew James provides great value. Whichever you choose, homemade ice cream is a rewarding treat.