Supermarket ice creams are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, but they are expensive and contain all kinds of dyes and additives. By buying an ice cream maker, you can enjoy the delights of sorbets, ice creams and other slushes at a lower cost without worrying about your health. And you can buy it at the best price, no matter which range you are interested in. Follow our guide to the best value ice cream makers!
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Our selection
"The remarkable H.Koenig HF 250 ice cream maker is sure to satisfy your cravings for sorbets and Italian ice. Its high-performance cooling system means you…"
"The Lagrange 409004 may have an outer shell made of plastic, but it is surprisingly sturdy. With this ice cream maker with a 1.5 L…"
"Compact, easy to use and powerful, this Springlane Kitchen Elli ice cream maker will satisfy all your ice cream and sorbet desires. Made of anodized…"
"Despite its size, this ice cream maker excels at everything. Elegant, powerful, intuitive, easy to use, easily programmable and above all, very easy to clean,…"
The remarkable H.Koenig HF 250 ice cream maker is sure to satisfy your cravings for sorbets and Italian ice. Its high-performance cooling system means you won't have to wait too long to enjoy your preparations.
127 £ on AmazonThis best-selling H HF 250 ice cream maker will help you make creamy ice creams and delicious sorbets in less than 50 minutes. It owes this prowess to its turbines and its integrated cooling unit that ensures perfect temperature control. Whether or not you're an expert in the kitchen, the chances of you missing your preparation are minimal with this machine.
The German brand has made sure that the H.Koenig HF 250 can be used by the whole family, including children. Simply pour the mixture into the removable 1.5 L non-stick bowl and activate the machine. The turbo motor takes care of the rest. With the automatic stop and hold function, you don't need to watch the preparation. When the ice cream is finally ready, simply transfer it to another container and chill it.
The Lagrange 409004 may have an outer shell made of plastic, but it is surprisingly sturdy. With this ice cream maker with a 1.5 L bowl, you can make your favorite frozen desserts every time.
39,99 £ on AmazonWith this blueberry colored ice cream maker proposed by Lagrange, prepare delicious sorbets for the whole family. Before use, make sure to let the cold accumulate by placing the tank in the refrigerator for 12 hours. Intuitive and easy to use, the Lagrange 409004 has an electronic screen with backlighting that shows you the remaining time of a preparation, programmable from 5 to 45 min.
Transparent, the lid of this ice cream maker will allow you to check the progress of your preparation. This ingenious cover also has an opening on top so you can add ingredients as you go. As an added bonus, the storage lid allows you to store the ice cream directly in the ice cream maker's bowl.
Compact, easy to use and powerful, this Springlane Kitchen Elli ice cream maker will satisfy all your ice cream and sorbet desires. Made of anodized aluminum, this machine is lightweight and easy to clean.
151 £ on AmazonEquipped with a 135 W motor, this electric ice cream maker does its job perfectly. In about 30 minutes, it produces a creamy and delicious ice cream as well as tasty sorbets that will not fail to satisfy gourmets. Thanks to its powerful built-in compressor, there is no need to pre-chill the bowl. Simply pour your mixture into the bowl and activate the machine.
This appliance will meet the needs of those in a hurry, as it allows you to prepare successive rounds of ice cream. The large openings in the lids make it easy to add ingredients during preparation. For a firmer consistency, let your preparations rest in the refrigerator for a few hours, they will be even more appetizing afterwards.
Despite its size, this ice cream maker excels at everything. Elegant, powerful, intuitive, easy to use, easily programmable and above all, very easy to clean, the Buffalo CM289 helps you prepare whatever you want like a pro.
315 £ on NisbetsPowerful and very simple, Buffalo CM289 can make up to 4L of ice cream per hour. It's the perfect ice cream maker for coffee shop owners or large families with a penchant for sorbet and Italian ice. We're saying it right now, there's nothing you can't achieve with this machine.
The Buffalo CM289 owes its performance mainly to its turbines, which can lower the temperature in an optimal way. The temperature can reach -35°C in record time. Not only will your ice creams become creamy, but they will double in volume in no time. Also, you will have total control over the preparation. To check if it is at the right texture, simply pause the machine. If necessary, you can add additional ingredients to perfect the taste.
Any specific needs?
The best quality/price ice cream maker of 2021
The best quality/price ice cream maker under €50
The best quality/price ice cream maker under €
The best quality/price ice cream maker under €400
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| THE BEST | LESS THAN 50 € | LESS THAN 200 € | LESS THAN 400 € | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
9/10 |
8/10 |
8/10 |
9/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
H.Koenig HF 250
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Lagrange 409004
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Springlane Kitchen Elli
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Buffalo CM289
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The remarkable H.Koenig HF 250 ice cream maker is sure to satisfy your cravings for sorbets and Italian ice. Its high-performance cooling system means you won't have to wait too long to enjoy your preparations.
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The Lagrange 409004 may have an outer shell made of plastic, but it is surprisingly sturdy. With this ice cream maker with a 1.5 L bowl, you can make your favorite frozen desserts every time.
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Compact, easy to use and powerful, this Springlane Kitchen Elli ice cream maker will satisfy all your ice cream and sorbet desires. Made of anodized aluminum, this machine is lightweight and easy to clean.
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Despite its size, this ice cream maker excels at everything. Elegant, powerful, intuitive, easy to use, easily programmable and above all, very easy to clean, the Buffalo CM289 helps you prepare whatever you want like a pro.
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Power
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150 w
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12 W
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135 w
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180 w
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Capacity
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1.5 L
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1.5 L
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1.2 L
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5 L
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Dimensions
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31 x 36.5 x 28.1 cm
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20 x 20 x 22 cm
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45 x 32 x 27 cm
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36.2 x 27.2 x 31.5 cm
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Weight
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11 kg
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2.3 kg
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10.7 kg
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12.3 kg
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Type
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Ice cream maker & turbine
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Cold storage cooker
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Ice blower
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Ice Turbine
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The capacities and number of bowls differ between manufacturers and models. Depending on your needs, you can choose a cheap ice cream maker with one or two tubs. A model with a 1-liter tub will allow you to prepare ice cream for 4 people. If you have a lot of people in the house, you should choose a two-tank sorbet maker with a volume of 1.6 or 2 liters.
The power of a value-for-money ice cream maker ranges from 6 to 180 W. The top-of-the-line models even have higher power ratings. Obviously, the low-powered machines are those that operate on the principle of cold accumulation. As for the most powerful ones, their integrated cooling unit allows them to generate the cold themselves for a more autonomous operation. As with other categories of appliances, the higher the power, the more efficient the machine.
An ice cream maker should have additional options besides the basic functions. Even if the ice cream maker is offered at the best value, make sure it has an electronic control screen, an automatic shut-off function, a timer, a pause button, and a transparent lid. This last option is interesting in the sense that it will allow you to control more easily the evolution of your preparation and if necessary to add ingredients on the run. With the cold hold function, you won't have to eat the ice cream after it's been prepared.
On a classic ice cream maker, the cooling time of the cold accumulator disc varies from 12 h to 24 h depending on the model. So, the shorter this time, the faster you will enjoy your sorbets. On the other hand, if you prefer to buy an ice cream maker, ask about the turbining time. Indeed, the shorter the preparation time, the smoother the texture of the ice cream.
To ensure its longevity, you should wash your ice cream maker after each use. If cleaning is your least favorite task, look for inexpensive ice cream makers that are easy to maintain, such as compressor models with a removable bowl. In addition, ice cream makers with smaller dimensions are easier to clean than larger models.
Unlike store-bought products, homemade ice cream is prepared by you. You have total control over the ingredients used in your preparations. They are not only preservative-free, they are also low in sugar, so there is no risk of harming your health. Young and old alike can consume them, but in moderation of course.
With your ice cream maker, make your own frozen dessert recipes. Let your imagination run wild and create delicious ice creams and yogurts with all the fresh ingredients you have on hand. You'll know that an ice cream maker can be used to make a thousand and one recipes that can be enhanced with fruit coulis, citrus slices and even chocolate chips. And if the model you choose has several vats, you can vary your preparations.
By going without industrial ice cream for a while, you can afford an ice cream maker with the best value for money. Some entry-level models are even capable of making Italian ice cream. Buying this small appliance is even more interesting if you are used to entertaining family and friends for lunch or dinner. Homemade frozen desserts will cost you 3 times less, and your guests will be able to eat as much as they want.
As unlikely as it may seem, sorbets have been around for thousands of years. In fact, the first frozen desserts date back to 3000 BC! It is also said that the ancestor of sorbet machines as we know them today comes from the French West Indies. Martiniqueans and Guadeloupeans once used it to prepare their famous sowbé coco. Today, this archaic device composed of a wooden bucket and a crank handle is highly prized by collectors.
Very similar to the traditional ice cream maker, it is operated by a crank. In its most primitive form, this appliance consists of an outer vat filled with rock salt and blocks of ice that cool the preparation as it is churned. However, more recent models do not require rock salt and ice cubes, since the mixing is done in a previously cooled tank.
Despite its somewhat archaic operation, the manual ice cream maker remains very efficient. This is the system for you if you want to prepare a small amount of ice cream quickly. However, keep in mind that this appliance works with a hand crank. In the long run, the work can be grueling.
This ice cream maker is definitely more convenient than the hand-cranked model. Before using it, you must place the cold storage disc or tub in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours before inserting them into the machine. For best results, it is recommended to freeze all ingredients before starting the preparation.
All that remains is to pour the mixture into the bowl and press the start button. The paddles will then stir the mixture for 60 minutes until it is ready. The resulting cream must be placed in the freezer for at least 48 hours before it can be eaten. If you need to make ice cream for a party, you'll have to make it ahead of time with this machine.
It's the ultimate ice cream maker. More powerful and convenient, this device generates its own cold used to chill preparations poured into its vats. More known under the name of ice turbine, this machine will ice the preparations in about twenty minutes only. You will be able to prepare frozen desserts with a minimum risk of failure.
No need to panic! You will find on the market refrigerated ice cream makers with the best quality-price ratio by refining your research. However, keep in mind that this machine is bulky. It's twice the size of an ice cream maker with cold storage. In addition, it only produces 1 to 2 liters of ice cream per batch.
The electric ice cream maker is the most common device on the market. It may not look like it at first glance, but this machine can be used to prepare countless desserts such as sorbets, ice cream, fruit yoghurt and granita. The best models are even capable of producing Italian ice.
Easy to use, it is however handicapped by its bowl or its cooling disk which still need to be cooled down before use. As for the preparation itself, it must be put in the freezer for 48 hours before tasting. Despite this, the electric ice cream maker can make ice cream in one hour thanks to its blades.
The self-contained cooling system of the ice cream maker allows you to produce Italian ice and other frozen desserts in only 20 minutes. Just turn it on 5-10 minutes before use and pour the freshly made ice cream from the refrigerator into the tubs. The ice cream maker will take care of the rest.
Note however that this device is not without its drawbacks. Its size is a major handicap. Even the least powerful machines weigh up to 10 kg. Moving it often requires titanic efforts.
The choice of an electric ice cream maker or an ice cream turbine will depend on your consumption habits and your preferences in terms of frozen desserts. If patience is not one of your main qualities, choose an ice cream maker. For occasional use, on the other hand, use an electric ice cream maker that offers the best value for money.
Create your own recipes
The ice cream maker will allow you to create your own frozen desserts, as often as you like. All you have to do is use your imagination. You can mix flavors, aromas, spices, fruits, but be careful not to go overboard in your preparations. Your ice creams must remain edible, especially if you have children at home.
For healthy ice creams
The disadvantage of industrial ice cream is that you have no way of knowing what is in it, especially the chemical ingredients (preservatives, emulsifiers, sweeteners). By owning your own ice cream maker, you can choose your own ingredients, making your ice cream healthy for the whole family.
A multifunctional appliance
As its name suggests, an ice cream maker is primarily used to make sorbets. But in practice, this machine is very versatile. In fact, this appliance allows you to make all kinds of ice creams, yoghurts, milkshakes and granita. One thing is for sure, an ice cream maker will surprise you.
An affordable appliance
Value-for-money ice cream makers are affordable. You'll always find the right machine, no matter what your budget is. Even if you want a more powerful or even more expensive machine, you will find one by refining your search.
So you don't have to go anywhere
By owning your own sorbet machine, you won't have to go to the corner store to enjoy an ice cream. You just have to go to your kitchen and prepare your ice cream. It's also more rewarding to enjoy your own recipes.
In our opinion, the best brands of ice cream makers quality/price ratio in 2022 are :
Created in 1970, this American brand has made it its mission to offer the best appliances at affordable prices to everyone. The quality of its range of products has earned it the recognition of hundreds of thousands of users around the world.
Launched in 1963, this French brand has built its reputation thanks to its robot-cutter, a true innovation in its time. True to its principles, the brand never ceases to offer us appliances that are both design and performance.
A prestigious brand despite being only 18 years old, Buffalo has made a name for itself with its professional appliances and catering equipment. Easy to use and powerful, Buffalo's creations will perfect your culinary preparations.
In business for some 60 years, Lagrange is a French manufacturer specializing in kitchen appliances. This brand is mostly loved for the performance, but especially for the ease of use of its products.
Kitchen appliances and small appliances, Klarstein has made its specialties since its creation. This German manufacturer has succeeded in seducing many with the excellence of its products, both in terms of performance and design.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Place the paddle before pouring in the mixture
Be sure to always put the paddle in the refrigerated tank before your preparation. Sometimes people forget to put the paddle in place, which forces them to empty the vat in order to fix it. This is a waste of time.
Add eggs to make your ice creams smoother
If industrial ice cream is less firm than homemade ice cream, it is simply because the manufacturers incorporate air into it. If you want to get the same texture with your ice creams, we recommend adding a little egg white to your preparations. The results are guaranteed.
Don't fill your ice cream maker to the brim
We don't always realize it, but ice cream expands as it cools. If done properly, an ice cream doubles in volume after churning. To avoid overflowing, fill the tub with only half a mix.
Consume your ice creams before 15 days
As homemade ice cream does not contain preservatives, it does not keep as long as store-bought ice cream. To ensure freshness, try to keep them at -20°C in the freezer. Ideally, they should be eaten within 15 days of preparation.
Add the topping at the end of the cycle
Toppings of any kind should be added at the end of the cycle, preferably a few minutes before the end of the cooling of a preparation. This way, the presentation of the dessert will be even more appetizing to the eyes, but especially to the palate.
The operation of an ice cream maker depends on its design and system. Hand-cranked models require muscle power. Other models require electrical power. After starting it, place crushed ice in the bottom of the bowl and add your mixture. From there, all you have to do is close the lid and wait for the machine to finish its work.
The power of a cold storage ice cream maker varies from 6 to 180 W. The more powerful the machine, the shorter the ice cream stirring time. The principle is the same for the ice turbine. If you are often in a hurry, prefer powerful appliances capable of turning an ice cream preparation for only half an hour.
Yes, it is quite possible to prepare sorbets without an ice cream maker. To do so, you need to use a Thermomix food processor. A true concentrate of technology, this machine is used in the same way as an ice cream maker, but it can also prepare hot dishes such as velvets, sauces and even roast meats.
This can result from a misunderstanding of its use. Normally, the paddle should be set up before preparation. The appliance may simply refuse to work if the paddle is missing. This is one of the reasons why you should always secure this accessory in the bowl before pouring in the preparation.
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