Ice Cream Machines: The Complete Buying Guide

By Myer Editorial Team, Last Updated November 11, 2026 (Published October 2025)

Making ice cream at home is a fun way to get creative in the kitchen. But with so many ice cream makers on the market, it can be tricky to choose one that’s right for you.  

This guide will explore the best ice cream machines in Australia and highlight their key features. We’ll also explain the different types of ice cream makers and provide tips for getting the most out of your machine. Your ice cream journey starts here!

“Start with what you’ll make most often, then think about how much you’d like to make at once. The right ice cream maker should suit both your favourite treats and your kitchen routine.”- Myer

These are your main options for ice cream makers in Australia:

• Freezer bowl machines: An affordable option with a removable bowl that you put in your freezer first before operating the machine.
• Built-in freezer compressor machines: These ice cream makers have a built-in freezer unit that chills as you churn. They’re great for serious home dessert-makers but can be a bit more expensive.
• Soft serve machines: These are designed to produce soft serve ice cream with a cafe-style swirl.
• Specialty makers: You can also get machines that make specialty desserts such as gelato, frozen yoghurt, frozen drinks, sorbet or shaved ice.

When choosing an ice cream maker, here are some features to keep in mind:

• Capacity: Machines come in different sizes, from small freezer-bowl models to larger machines.
• Freezing method: Some machines use a pre-frozen bowl, while compressor models have a built-in freezer for more convenience.
• Ease of cleaning: Look for removable parts and dishwasher-safe components.
• Speed: Depending on the model, it can take anywhere from 20 minutes to several hours for your ice cream to be ready.
• Size & storage: Compact machines are ideal if you’re short on kitchen space.
• Versatility: Some makers can whip up gelato, sorbet or frozen yoghurt. You can also get models that allow you to add mix-ins.

“The quickest way to narrow down your options is to think beyond the machine’s run time. Check what needs freezing beforehand, how much it makes and where you’ll store it.” – Myer

So, what’s the best ice cream maker in Australia? The answer will depend on how much you’re willing to spend, and what your preferences are. To get an idea of what’s right for you, browse Myer’s top-rated ice cream machines:

The difference comes down to what you freeze first. With a Ninja CREAMi, you prepare a mixture, freeze it in a tub, then let the machine process it into ice cream, sorbet or another frozen treat. It’s a good fit if you like keeping a few flavours ready to choose from.

Traditional ice cream makers churn a liquid mixture as it chills. Freezer bowl models need the bowl frozen beforehand, while compressor models chill the mixture themselves. If you enjoy making classic churned batches, a traditional ice cream maker is a good choice. Choose the CREAMi if you’d rather prepare your flavours ahead and pick one when dessert time comes.

Once you’ve experienced the deliciousness of homemade ice cream, it can be hard to go back. Here are some of the benefits of making ice cream at home:

• Freshness and flavour: Homemade ice cream is crafted with fresh ingredients, which enhances its creaminess. Store bought ice cream, on the other hand, tends to contain preservatives and stabilisers.
• Control over ingredients: If you have special dietary needs, making your own ice cream gives you control over what goes in.
• More flavour possibilities: You can invent flavours that don’t exist at the supermarket.
• Creativity: It’s a pleasure to create your own ice cream, using flavour combinations that cater to your own preferences.

Using a home ice cream maker is straightforward. The basic steps are:

1. Prepare your base: Select and prepare your chosen ingredients – we recommend following a recipe provided by the manufacturer.

2. Add to the machine: Pour the mixture into the bowl or container.

3. Churn: Let the machine work until it reaches a creamy texture.

4. Freeze if needed: For a firmer finish, transfer to the freezer before serving.

Please note that your machine might have a slightly different process. For best results, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Proper storage helps your homemade ice cream stay fresh and delicious. Once it’s ready, transfer it into an airtight, freezer-safe container to prevent ice crystals from forming. Shallow containers with a tight lid work best, as they allow the ice cream to freeze evenly. To keep it extra smooth, press a layer of baking paper or cling wrap directly on the surface before sealing.  

Homemade ice cream generally lasts up to two weeks in the freezer, though it’s best enjoyed within the first few days for peak flavour and texture.

Making ice cream at home can be really fun. Here are some tips to get the best results from your making ice cream machine:

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh cream, milk and flavours make a noticeable difference in taste and texture.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Nuts, chocolate chips, fruit or cookie pieces can add texture and interest.
• Chill everything: Keep your base and machine components cold for smoother, creamier ice cream.
• Try seasonal or trending flavours: Match your ice cream to seasonal fruits or current flavour trends for variety.
• Don’t overfill the machine: Leave space for the ice cream to expand while churning for the perfect consistency.

Ice cream makers in Australia offer high standards of quality, but there are some steps you can take to keep your machine at its best:

• Clean immediately after use: Wash removable parts and wipe down the machine to prevent residue build-up.
• Store bowls and accessories properly: Keep components dry and protected to avoid damage or warping.
• Avoid overfilling: Leaving space for the mixture prevents strain on the motor and ensures even churning.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions: Always refer to the user guide for safe operation and maintenance.

Myer’s range of featured ice cream machines range from $79 to $449. If you only make the occasional batch, a simple freezer bowl model may be all you need. If you’d like to skip pre-freezing or make a wider range of treats, it may be worth spending more.

If your family loves ice cream, an ice cream maker can make dessert time more fun. Everyone can help choose the flavours and mix-ins, and you can make a batch to suit your tastes. It’s especially worthwhile if you’ll use it regularly, so consider how its preparation steps fit into your routine.

For a scoop or two at a time, a 0.5 L model could be plenty. If you’re making dessert for the family or friends, look for a larger capacity or a machine with multiple tubs you can prepare ahead.

Yes, many ice cream makers can make sorbet and frozen yoghurt as well as ice cream. Check your chosen machine’s programs and recipes to see what it can make.

Yes, many ice cream makers can make smooth gelato. Some have a dedicated gelato setting, while others can make it using a recipe suited to the machine. Check the model’s instructions before you start.

Only if you’re using a freezer bowl model. A compressor machine freezes the mixture as it churns. With a Ninja CREAMi or similar machine, you freeze the prepared mixture in a tub instead.

A freezer bowl needs room in your freezer before use, while frozen-base models need space for their tubs. If freezer space is tight, a compressor model may be more convenient because it doesn’t need either.