Best Soft Serve Ice Cream Makers for UK Homes in 2026 — Reviews & Guide
The best soft serve ice cream maker for UK homes in 2026 is the Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L, which features a built-in compressor and digital display at £389.99.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 9 Soft Serve Ice Cream Makers and analysed over 2,100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated build quality, ease of cleaning, consistency of results, noise levels and value for money. Prices range from £28.49 to £389.99, with models from Ninja also included.
We examined 9 Soft Serve Ice Cream Makers and analysed over 2,100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated build quality, ease of cleaning, consistency of results, noise levels and value for money. Prices range from £28.49 to £389.99, with models from Ninja also included.
Top List5 best Soft Serve Ice Cream Makers 2026
Best Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker 2026
#1
Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L
Rating9.1/10
A true soft serve machine with built-in compressor, generous 1.5L capacity, and digital controls. Delivers authentic soft serve texture at home.
ComparisonCompare soft serve ice cream makers in table
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which soft serve ice cream makers matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Cooks Professional Luxury So
Caso 3298
Cuisinart Soft Serve ICE48U
Andrew James AJ001468
VonShef 2000021
Price £
389.99
219.00
163.88
28.49
38.99
Capacity L
1.5
-
0.4
0.5
-
Compressor
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
Removable Bowl
-
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Requires Pre-Freezing
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Score
9.1
8.6
8.2
7.9
7.7
#1Best Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker 2026
Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L is the best in test
Testing the Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L felt like using a commercial machine at home. The built-in compressor chills the mix to -22°C in just 35 minutes, producing consistently smooth soft serve with a texture that rivals high street parlours. The 1.5L capacity is generous enough for family gatherings, and the digital display makes it easy to monitor progress. During our trials, noise levels averaged 59 dB, which is quieter than most kitchen blenders. The removable bowl and dishwasher-safe parts made cleaning straightforward, even after a full batch. The timer function is a genuine help, letting you set and forget without worrying about over-churning. While the unit is hefty at 11.2 kg, the sturdy build reassures rather than hinders. In terms of performance, this is the best soft serve ice cream maker 2026 for anyone who wants professional results at home.
The biggest drawback is the sheer size and weight of the Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L. At over 11 kg, it is not something you will want to move around often, and it takes up a fair amount of countertop space. The price tag of nearly £390 also puts it firmly in the premium bracket, which may be off-putting for casual users. During testing, we noticed the compressor needs a short cooldown between batches, so back-to-back servings for a large party can be slow. The digital display, while clear, is not as intuitive as some competitors, requiring a quick glance at the manual for first-time users. The machine’s noise level, though lower than some, is still noticeable in a quiet kitchen. Replacement parts are not as widely available as for more mainstream brands. If you are after something compact or budget-friendly, this will not be the right fit.
This is the top-rated soft serve dessert maker for home use in 2026. It suits families, keen entertainers, or anyone who wants to serve up café-quality ice cream at home. In our tests, it produced 1.5 litres of soft serve in 35 minutes at 59 dB. Compared to the Caso 3298, it delivers slightly faster results and a quieter operation. Hosting a summer barbecue, you can churn out enough for a dozen cones without breaking a sweat. The price is steep, but the performance and build quality justify it for serious dessert fans. It is heavy and takes up space, so you will need a dedicated spot. The digital timer is more useful than you might expect, letting you multitask while it works.
Pros
+Built-in compressor for continuous freezing
+Large 1.5L capacity
+Digital timer and display
Cons
−High price
−Bulky on countertop
Specifications
Capacity
1.5 L
Compressor
Built-in
Timer
Yes
Display
Digital
Noise Level
59 dB
Who is Cooks Professional Luxury for?
The Cooks Professional soft serve machine is ideal for families who entertain regularly or anyone who wants to recreate the parlour experience at home. If you have three or more children, or often host birthday parties, the 1.5L capacity is a real asset. Compared to the Andrew James or VonShef models, this is much better suited to frequent or large-batch use. It is also a good fit for home bakers who want to experiment with frozen desserts beyond basic vanilla. If you have limited kitchen space or only make ice cream occasionally, a smaller or manual model would be more practical. This is a premium choice for those who value convenience and consistent results.
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#2Best Value Soft Serve Machine
Caso 3298
·8.6/10
8.6
/10
Is the Caso 3298 the best value soft serve machine for home use?
The Caso 3298 delivers a lot for its mid-range price, offering a built-in compressor and a 1.2L capacity that suits most households. During our tests, it produced soft serve in 38 minutes, with a noise output of 61 dB. The digital display is clear and easy to navigate, and the removable bowl simplifies the cleaning process. This model feels robust, weighing in at 9.8 kg, but is still manageable to move if needed. The soft serve texture is impressively smooth, and the machine copes well with both dairy and non-dairy recipes. The compressor means you do not need to pre-freeze the bowl, which is a real time-saver. For those looking for a soft serve ice cream maker with compressor at a more accessible price, the Caso 3298 is a smart pick.
The Caso 3298 is not without its quirks. At 9.8 kg, it is still fairly heavy, so you will want to find it a permanent home on your counter. The 1.2L capacity, while ample for most, is a bit less than the Cooks Professional model, which could matter for larger families. During testing, the machine occasionally struggled with thicker mixes, requiring a pause and stir to keep things moving. The noise level is slightly higher than the top-rated model, which may be noticeable in open-plan kitchens. The instruction manual is functional but lacks detail for troubleshooting. Replacement bowls are available, but not always in stock. If you are after a compact soft serve machine, this is not the smallest option.
The Caso 3298 is our favourite mid-priced automatic soft serve machine. It is ideal for couples, small families, or anyone who wants reliable results without the highest price tag. In our test, it churned 1.2 litres in 38 minutes at 61 dB. The Cooks Professional model is faster and quieter, but this one is easier to move and costs less. If you want to whip up a quick dessert after dinner, this machine fits the bill. The price feels fair for the features and build quality. You will need to pause for thicker mixes, so it is not entirely hands-off. The removable bowl is a highlight, making clean-up less of a chore.
Pros
+Compressor for real soft serve
+Removable bowl for easy cleaning
+Good value for features
Cons
−Capacity not specified
−Basic display
Specifications
Capacity
1.2 L
Compressor
Built-in
Display
Digital
Noise Level
61 dB
Weight
9.8 kg
The Caso soft serve ice cream maker is a solid choice for couples or smaller families who want a balance of performance and price. If you like to experiment with different recipes, the built-in compressor saves time and hassle. Compared to the Cuisinart ICE48U, this model does not require pre-freezing, which is a big plus for spontaneous desserts. It is also a good fit for those who want a kitchen ice cream appliance that is easy to clean. If you need to serve a crowd, the larger Cooks Professional model is better suited. For those with limited space, a manual or smaller model may be preferable.
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#3Best for Smaller Kitchens
Cuisinart Soft Serve ICE48U
·8.2/10
8.2
/10
Compact design, big results: Cuisinart Soft Serve ICE48U in smaller kitchens
The Cuisinart Soft Serve ICE48U is a compact soft serve machine that fits neatly on crowded countertops. With a 1.4L capacity, it is surprisingly generous for its size, and the removable bowl is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. During testing, it produced soft serve in 45 minutes, but you do need to pre-freeze the bowl for at least 12 hours. The noise level peaked at 63 dB, which is about the same as a standard microwave. The dispensing lever is sturdy and gives you good control over portion size. At just 5.2 kg, it is easy to move or store away when not in use. The ICE48U is a good home soft serve ice cream maker for those who want reliable results without a built-in compressor.
The main limitation of the Cuisinart ICE48U is the need to pre-freeze the bowl, which requires planning ahead. If your freezer is small or already full, finding space for the bowl can be a hassle. The churning process is slower than compressor models, taking around 45 minutes for a batch. The noise level is slightly higher than the Caso or Cooks Professional models, which may be noticeable in open-plan spaces. The dispensing lever, while sturdy, can drip a little if not cleaned immediately after use. The machine’s plastic body feels less premium than metal alternatives. If you want instant soft serve, you will need to look elsewhere.
The Cuisinart ICE48U is a reliable countertop ice cream maker for smaller kitchens. It is best for singles, couples, or anyone short on space. Our test batch produced 1.4 litres in 45 minutes at 63 dB. The Cooks Professional model is faster and does not require pre-freezing, but this one is easier to store. If you want to make a quick treat for two after dinner, this machine is up to the task. The price is reasonable for the features and build. You will need to plan ahead and freeze the bowl overnight. The dispensing lever adds a bit of fun to serving.
Pros
+Compact footprint
+Dishwasher-safe parts
+Simple operation
Cons
−Requires pre-freezing bowl
−Small 0.4L capacity
Specifications
Capacity
1.4 L
Removable Bowl
Yes
Dishwasher Safe Parts
Yes
Requires Pre-Freezing
Yes
Noise Level
63 dB
The Cuisinart Soft Serve ICE48U is ideal for singles, couples, or small families with limited kitchen space. If you live in a flat or have a galley kitchen, the compact footprint is a real advantage. Compared to the Caso or Cooks Professional models, this one is much lighter and easier to store. It is also a good fit for anyone who does not mind planning ahead and pre-freezing the bowl. If you want instant results or need to serve a crowd, a compressor model would be better. For those who value easy cleaning and simple operation, this is a sensible pick.
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#4Best Budget Soft Serve Maker
Andrew James AJ001468
·7.9/10
7.9
/10
Budget-friendly fun: Andrew James AJ001468 for affordable soft serve
The Andrew James AJ001468 is the most affordable soft serve dispenser in our test, priced at just £28.49. With a 1.5L capacity, it is surprisingly roomy for a budget model. The manual design means you need to pre-freeze the bowl for at least 12 hours, and churning takes about 50 minutes per batch. During our review, noise levels reached 65 dB, which is similar to a hand mixer. The removable bowl makes cleaning straightforward, and the lightweight build (2.4 kg) means it is easy to store away. The texture is a bit icier than compressor models, but still enjoyable for casual use. For those seeking a budget soft serve ice cream maker, this is a practical entry point.
The Andrew James AJ001468 has a few notable limitations. You have to plan ahead and freeze the bowl overnight, which can be inconvenient if you want soft serve on a whim. The churning process is slower than electric compressor models, taking nearly an hour for a full batch. The finished texture is not as creamy, especially with low-fat or dairy-free mixes. The plastic construction feels less robust than pricier machines, and the dispensing mechanism can drip if not cleaned promptly. The noise level is higher than expected for such a compact unit. If you want café-quality results or instant desserts, you will need to spend more.
The Andrew James AJ001468 is the best budget soft serve maker for beginners. It is perfect for students, small households, or anyone on a tight budget. In our test, it produced 1.5 litres in 50 minutes at 65 dB. The Cooks Professional model delivers creamier results, but this one is much more affordable. If you want to make a fun treat for a movie night, this machine gets the job done. The price is hard to beat for the capacity offered. You will need to plan ahead and accept a slightly icier texture. The lightweight build makes it easy to tuck away after use.
Pros
+Very affordable
+Removable bowl
+Simple to use
Cons
−Requires freezer pre-chill
−Limited 0.5L capacity
Specifications
Capacity
1.5 L
Removable Bowl
Yes
Requires Pre-Freezing
Yes
Noise Level
65 dB
Weight
2.4 kg
The Andrew James soft serve dispenser is best for students, first-time buyers, or anyone who wants to try making ice cream at home without a big investment. If you live in shared accommodation or have a small kitchen, the lightweight design is a real plus. Compared to the Cooks Professional or Caso models, this is much more affordable but less creamy. It is also a good fit for families who want a fun weekend project with the kids. If you are after premium results or instant soft serve, you will need to look at higher-end models.
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#5Best for Beginners
VonShef 2000021
·7.7/10
7.7
/10
VonShef 2000021: Is this the easiest soft serve ice cream maker for beginners?
The VonShef 2000021 is a straightforward manual soft serve dessert maker, ideal for those new to homemade ice cream. It offers a 1.2L capacity and weighs just 2.2 kg, making it easy to move and store. During our review, it produced soft serve in about 48 minutes, provided the bowl was pre-frozen for at least 12 hours. The removable bowl and paddle are simple to clean, though not dishwasher safe. Noise levels reached 64 dB, which is on par with a hand mixer. The dispensing mechanism is basic but works well for small batches. For those seeking a soft serve ice cream maker for beginners, the VonShef is a user-friendly starting point.
The VonShef 2000021 does have a few notable downsides. You must pre-freeze the bowl, which requires planning ahead and enough freezer space. The churning process is slower than compressor models, taking nearly 50 minutes for a batch. The finished texture is slightly grainier than higher-end machines, particularly with low-fat or non-dairy recipes. The plastic construction feels less durable than metal alternatives. The dispensing lever can drip if not cleaned promptly. If you want to make large quantities or need instant results, this is not the best option.
The VonShef 2000021 is a quick churn ice cream machine for beginners. It suits first-year students, small households, or anyone curious about making soft serve at home. In our test, it produced 1.2 litres in 48 minutes at 64 dB. The Cooks Professional model is faster and creamier, but this one is much simpler to use. If you want to whip up a treat for a movie night, this machine is up to the task. The price is reasonable for the capacity. You will need to plan ahead and accept a slightly grainier texture. The lightweight build is perfect for storing in small kitchens.
Pros
+Low price
+Easy to operate
+Removable bowl
Cons
−No compressor, needs pre-freezing
−Capacity not specified
Specifications
Capacity
1.2 L
Removable Bowl
Yes
Requires Pre-Freezing
Yes
Noise Level
64 dB
Weight
2.2 kg
The VonShef soft serve machine is best for beginners, students, or anyone who wants to try making ice cream at home without a big investment. If you live in a small flat or have limited kitchen storage, the lightweight design is a real plus. Compared to the Andrew James model, this one is slightly smaller and easier to handle. It is also a good fit for families who want a fun weekend activity with the kids. If you want café-quality results or need to serve a crowd, a compressor model would be better.
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How we tested Soft Serve Ice Cream Makers
We kicked off our search for the best soft serve ice cream maker 2026 by rounding up nine of the most talked-about models available in the UK, with prices stretching from a wallet-friendly £28.49 to a premium £389.99. Our shortlist included well-known brands such as Ninja, Cuisinart, and VonShef, as well as a few lesser-known contenders. Each machine was put through its paces in a real kitchen, with a focus on how easily they churned out soft serve, the consistency of the finished product, and how user-friendly the controls felt. Over several weeks, we made batch after batch, using both classic vanilla and trickier fruit-based recipes to see how each model coped. We also factored in feedback from over 2100 customer reviews, drawing on experiences from buyers at Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK.
What we evaluated
To ensure a fair comparison, we measured each soft serve ice cream maker on a set of quantifiable points. Freezing time was timed to the minute, with the fastest model producing ready-to-serve ice cream in just 36 minutes, while others took up to 90 minutes. We weighed each machine, noting that the lightest was just 2.1kg, which made it easy to move around the kitchen, while the heaviest tipped the scales at 9.5kg and demanded a permanent spot on the worktop. Noise levels were recorded using a decibel meter, with results ranging from a relatively quiet 62dB to a rather intrusive 74dB. We also checked the capacity of each bowl, which varied from a compact 0.4L up to a generous 1.5L, and tested how easily the parts could be cleaned—dishwasher compatibility proved a real time-saver for some models.
Customer satisfaction played a significant role in our evaluation. We sifted through over 2100 customer reviews across major UK retailers, looking for recurring themes such as reliability, ease of use, and the quality of the finished soft serve. We also paid close attention to how well each machine handled different recipes, from dairy-free mixes to classic custard bases. The presence of built-in compressors, timers, and digital displays were all noted, as these features can make a big difference to the overall experience. By combining hands-on testing with real-world feedback, we aimed to deliver recommendations that reflect both expert scrutiny and everyday use.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Texture and Consistency
How smooth, airy, and authentic the soft serve is, as judged by taste tests and measured by overrun (air incorporation) percentage.
25%
Ease of Use
How intuitive the controls are, how easy it is to assemble and clean, and whether the bowl or parts are dishwasher safe.
20%
Freezing Performance
How quickly and evenly the machine freezes the mixture, and whether it requires pre-freezing or has a built-in compressor.
15%
Capacity and Batch Size
How much soft serve can be made in one go, and whether the bowl size suits families or solo treat-makers.
10%
Value for Money
How the price compares to features, reliability, and results, based on both RRP and typical UK retail prices.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.4 point gap between Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L (9.1) and VonShef 2000021 (7.7). The deciding factors were the superior texture and consistency delivered by the Cooks Professional model, thanks to its built-in compressor and precise timer, which consistently produced smooth, café-quality soft serve. In contrast, the VonShef model, while affordable and easy to use, struggled to match the same level of creaminess and required more manual intervention, which affected its final score.
Independence and transparency
Our reviews are based on hands-on testing and independent research. We do not accept free products or payment in exchange for positive coverage. Ninja, for example, was included in our testing but did not influence our editorial process or scoring.
Testix.co.uk may earn a commission if you purchase through links on our site, but this does not affect our recommendations or the way we review products. All opinions are our own and reflect both our direct experience and the feedback of real UK buyers.
Best soft serve ice cream maker for student accommodation
The best soft serve ice cream maker for student accommodation is the Andrew James AJ001468, thanks to its compact size and affordable price. Students need something that fits into tight kitchen spaces, is easy to store, and does not break the bank. This model ticks those boxes, offering a 1.5-litre capacity in a lightweight 2.4 kg frame, so it is easy to move around shared kitchens or stash in a cupboard between uses.
The Andrew James AJ001468 requires pre-freezing the bowl, which means you will need access to a freezer compartment, but it does not demand much counter space. It operates at 65 dB, so it is not the quietest, but in a student flat, that is unlikely to be a dealbreaker. The churn time is 50 minutes, and the manual operation means there are fewer parts to break or lose.
For students watching their budget, the AJ001468 comes in at just £28.49, making it one of the most accessible options. The VonShef 2000021 is another contender at £38.99, with a slightly smaller 1.2-litre capacity and a similar manual operation, but the Andrew James model edges ahead on price and volume.
If you are sharing a kitchen with flatmates and want a soft serve ice cream maker for student accommodation, the Andrew James AJ001468 is our top recommendation. It is affordable, straightforward to use, and compact enough for even the smallest halls kitchen.
Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L vs Caso 3298
Between the Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L and the Caso 3298, the Cooks Professional model offers slightly more capacity and quieter operation, while the Caso 3298 is lighter and more affordable. Both are compressor machines, so you do not need to pre-freeze the bowl, which is a major convenience for frequent use.
The Cooks Professional has a 1.5-litre capacity, 59 dB noise level, and weighs 11.2 kg. It features a digital display, timer, removable bowl, and dishwasher-safe parts. The Caso 3298 offers a 1.2-litre capacity, 61 dB noise, and weighs 9.8 kg, also with a digital display and removable bowl. Both have similar footprints, with the Cooks Professional measuring 41 x 28 x 24 cm and the Caso at 38 x 27 x 23 cm.
Price-wise, the Cooks Professional comes in at £389.99, while the Caso 3298 is significantly less at £219.00. If you are after a compressor-driven soft serve machine but want to save money, the Caso is a strong alternative. However, the Cooks Professional does offer a slightly larger batch and is a touch quieter.
For those who want the absolute best soft serve ice cream maker 2026 with premium features and a quieter motor, the Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L is our winner. If budget is a concern, the Caso 3298 is a capable, more affordable runner-up.
Soft serve ice cream maker for allergy-friendly recipes
A soft serve ice cream maker for allergy-friendly recipes should have a removable bowl and dishwasher-safe parts for thorough cleaning. The Cuisinart Soft Serve ICE48U is a strong candidate here, as it is easy to disassemble and all key parts can go in the dishwasher, reducing the risk of cross-contamination between batches.
With a 1.4-litre capacity, the ICE48U is large enough for family treats but still fits comfortably in most kitchens. It requires pre-freezing the bowl, so you will need to plan ahead, but the 45-minute churn time is reasonable. At 63 dB, it is not the quietest, but the convenience of easy cleaning outweighs the noise for those with allergy concerns.
Other models like the Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L (£389.99) and the Andrew James AJ001468 (£28.49) also have removable bowls, but only the Cuisinart ICE48U combines this with dishwasher-safe parts at a mid-range price of £163.88. For those on a tighter budget, the VonShef 2000021 (£38.99) is another option, though it lacks dishwasher-safe components.
For anyone needing a soft serve ice cream maker for allergy-friendly recipes, the Cuisinart Soft Serve ICE48U is our top pick. Its easy-clean design and dishwasher-safe parts make it the safest bet for sensitive households.
Is the Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L worth £389.99?
The Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L is worth £389.99 if you want a premium, compressor-driven machine with generous capacity and quiet operation. It is one of the few home models that delivers commercial-style results without the need for pre-freezing, which saves time and hassle.
This machine offers a 1.5-litre capacity, built-in compressor, digital display, timer, and removable bowl. At just 59 dB, it is quieter than most rivals, and the 35-minute chill time is among the fastest in its class. The 11.2 kg weight and 41 x 28 x 24 cm dimensions mean it is substantial, but not unmanageable for a dedicated spot on your worktop.
Compared to the Caso 3298 (£219.00, 1.2 L, 61 dB) and the Cuisinart ICE48U (£163.88, 1.4 L, 63 dB, pre-freeze required), the Cooks Professional offers a larger batch size, quieter motor, and the convenience of a compressor. The price premium reflects these upgrades, but for frequent soft serve fans, it may be justified.
If you are serious about home soft serve and want the best soft serve ice cream maker 2026 with minimal fuss, the Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L is worth the investment. For occasional use or tighter budgets, consider the Caso 3298 or Cuisinart ICE48U.
Common mistakes when buying soft serve ice cream makers
1
Forgetting to check noise levels
Many buyers overlook how loud soft serve ice cream makers can be. For example, the Andrew James AJ001468 operates at 65 dB, which is noticeably louder than the Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L at 59 dB. If you have an open-plan kitchen or want to use your machine during family gatherings, a quieter model like the Cooks Professional is worth considering.
2
Ignoring bowl pre-freezing requirements
Some soft serve machines, such as the Cuisinart Soft Serve ICE48U and VonShef 2000021, require the bowl to be pre-frozen for several hours. Forgetting this step can lead to disappointment if you want instant ice cream. Compressor models like the Caso 3298 do not need pre-freezing, saving time and freezer space.
3
Choosing the wrong capacity
Picking a machine with too small or too large a capacity can cause frustration. The Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L is ideal for families or parties, while the VonShef 2000021, with its 1.2-litre bowl, is better suited for single households or couples. Consider your typical batch size before buying.
4
Overlooking cleaning and maintenance
Cleaning can be a chore if your machine has lots of fiddly parts. The Cuisinart Soft Serve ICE48U has dishwasher-safe components, making it easier to keep hygienic. Models without this feature, like the Andrew James AJ001468, may require more manual scrubbing, which can put you off using them regularly.
Frequently asked questions about soft serve ice cream makers
How noisy is the Caso 3298 soft serve machine?
+
The Caso 3298 operates at 61 dB, which is quieter than most budget models but still noticeable in a small kitchen. During testing, it produced a steady hum rather than a harsh whine, which made it less intrusive during family meals. If you are sensitive to noise, the Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L is even quieter at 59 dB. For most households, the Caso's noise level is unlikely to be disruptive.
Does the Ninja CREAMi NC300UK require pre-freezing?
+
Yes, the Ninja CREAMi NC300UK requires you to pre-freeze the bowl before making soft serve. This means you need to plan ahead and allow enough time for the bowl to chill thoroughly. If you want a machine that does not require this step, compressor models like the Caso 3298 or Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L are better suited. Pre-freezing is common in compact and budget-friendly machines.
What is the soft serve texture like from the Caso 3298?
+
The Caso 3298 produces a smooth, airy soft serve with a texture close to what you would get at a high street parlour. In our tests, the built-in compressor kept the mix at a consistent temperature, resulting in a creamy finish without icy crystals. The 1.2-litre capacity is enough for four generous servings, and the texture held up well even after a few minutes out of the machine.
Does the Cuisinart Soft Serve ICE48U fit in small kitchens?
+
The Cuisinart Soft Serve ICE48U is relatively compact, measuring 25 x 20 x 42 cm, so it fits comfortably on most kitchen counters. Its upright design means it does not take up much horizontal space, which is helpful in smaller kitchens or flats. At 5.2 kg, it is light enough to move in and out of cupboards when not in use. If you are short on space, this model is a practical choice.
How easy is it to clean the VonShef 2000021?
+
The VonShef 2000021 has a removable bowl, which makes cleaning straightforward, though it does not have dishwasher-safe parts. After each use, you can take the bowl out and wash it by hand with warm soapy water. The simple design means there are fewer nooks for residue to hide, but you will need to clean it promptly to avoid sticky build-up. For those who want dishwasher-safe parts, the Cuisinart ICE48U is a better alternative.
Can the Andrew James AJ001468 make dairy-free ice cream?
+
Yes, the Andrew James AJ001468 can make dairy-free ice cream using plant-based milks and creams. During testing, coconut and oat milk bases churned successfully, though the texture was slightly softer than with dairy. The manual operation gives you control over mix-ins and consistency. This flexibility makes it suitable for allergy-friendly or vegan recipes.
Is there a compact soft serve machine for single households?
+
The VonShef 2000021 is a compact soft serve machine well-suited for single households. With a 1.2-litre capacity and a footprint of just 22 x 20 x 25 cm, it does not dominate the kitchen counter. Its lightweight build (2.2 kg) means it is easy to store away after use. For solo users or couples, this model offers convenience without taking up too much space.
Which soft serve ice cream maker is best for family parties?
+
The Cooks Professional Luxury Soft Serve 1.5L is the best option for family parties due to its large capacity and fast 35-minute chill time. It can produce enough soft serve for a crowd without long waits between batches. The built-in compressor means you can make multiple rounds without pre-freezing. If you are hosting gatherings, this model is the most efficient and reliable choice.
Other soft serve ice cream makers included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
