If you’re looking for the best countercommercial ice cream machines to make smooth, tasty treats, I recommend options based on capacity, speed, and durability. Models like VEVOR’s 10-20L/h and 18-28L/h machines offer high production rates, while others like the soft serve machines deliver versatile flavors and quick freezing times. Many come with automatic cleaning and advanced controls, perfect for busy settings. Keep exploring to find the perfect fit for your needs and space.
If you’re looking for a reliable soft serve ice cream machine for your busy commercial setting, the 3.2-gallon model is an excellent choice. It features a 1.58-gallon tank and a 0.42-gallon freezer tank, producing about 3.2 to 3.6 gallons per hour. Its compact design, comparable to an A4 paper, fits easily into any space. The machine’s patented double puffing technology increases taste and reduces waste, boosting profitability. With one-touch automatic cleaning, rapid defrosting, and a tilted control panel, it’s user-friendly and efficient. Built with durable materials, it’s perfect for high-volume environments like stores, schools, and parties.
Best For: small to medium-sized commercial venues such as cafes, schools, and event spaces seeking reliable, high-capacity soft serve ice cream.
Pros:
Compact design fits easily into various spaces, saving room.
The VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Maker stands out for its impressive 10-20L per hour production capacity, making it an excellent choice for cafes, restaurants, and snack bars that require consistent, high-volume ice cream output. It features a 1000W motor, a smart touch panel with programmable settings, and a self-cleaning function for easy maintenance. Made of durable stainless steel, it has a 4.5L hopper and a 1.6L cylinder, suitable for busy commercial environments. Despite some customer concerns about durability and customer support, its efficient performance and user-friendly controls make it a solid option for those seeking reliable, large-scale ice cream production.
Best For: cafes, restaurants, snack bars, buffets, and residential users needing high-volume, reliable ice cream production.
Pros:
High production capacity of 10-20L per hour suitable for commercial environments
User-friendly smart touch panel with programmable settings and self-cleaning feature
Durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity and easy maintenance
Cons:
Customer complaints about water leakage, damage during delivery, and control board failures
Difficulty in obtaining replacement parts and inconsistent customer support
Some users report issues with durability and product lifespan
Designed for busy cafes and small restaurants, the VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Machine with an 18-28 L/H yield offers high productivity and quick turnaround times. With a powerful 1850W motor and support for three flavors, it produces up to 28 liters per hour. The rapid freezing feature allows initial freeze in just 14 minutes and batches ready in 4 minutes or less. Made from durable, rust-resistant stainless steel, it’s easy to clean and operate via an intuitive LED control panel. Its automatic functions, including auto-clean and pre-cooling, make it ideal for continuous use in commercial settings, ensuring consistent, high-quality treats every time.
Best For: small to medium-sized cafes, ice cream shops, and restaurants seeking high-capacity, efficient soft serve ice cream production.
Pros:
High productivity with up to 28 liters per hour and support for three flavors.
Rapid freezing capability reduces wait time, with initial freeze in 14 minutes and batches ready in 4 minutes or less.
Durable stainless steel construction and user-friendly LED control panel for easy operation and maintenance.
Cons:
Support response times can be slow, and some users report difficulty with customer service.
Potential long-term reliability issues, including motor failure after several months of use.
Shipping damages and mechanical parts require careful handling, which can lead to additional repair costs.
Great for busy food service environments, the VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Machine delivers a rapid 10.6 QT per hour, making it ideal for restaurants, cafes, and small ice cream shops that need high-volume production. It features a powerful 1000W compressor, a 4L hopper, and a 1.6L cylinder for quick freezing—initial freeze in just 15 minutes and subsequent batches in 6 minutes or less. Constructed from durable SUS201 stainless steel with a food-grade SUS304 cylinder, it’s built for longevity and easy cleaning. The LCD control panel simplifies operation with auto-cleaning, pre-cooling, and timer settings, supporting continuous, efficient output.
Best For: busy restaurants, cafes, and small ice cream shops seeking high-volume, quick-freezing ice cream production.
Pros:
Rapid freezing capability with initial freeze in 15 minutes and subsequent batches in 6 minutes or less
High productivity, producing up to 10.6 QT/hour suitable for high-demand environments
Durable construction from SUS201 stainless steel with food-grade SUS304 cylinder for longevity and easy cleaning
Cons:
Instructions are poorly written, often requiring YouTube tutorials for setup and maintenance
Some users report frequent malfunctions, defective units, and limited customer support
Water-intensive cleaning process may be inconvenient and increase water consumption
If you’re running a busy ice cream shop, café, or snack bar, the VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Maker is an excellent choice because it can produce up to 20 liters of soft serve ice cream per hour, ensuring you keep up with high demand. It features two 4L hoppers, allowing for two flavors plus a twist option. The machine quickly freezes batches in just 15 minutes, with subsequent batches ready in 6 minutes or less. Its durable stainless steel build and easy-to-use LCD control panel make operation straightforward. Perfect for high-volume settings, it’s versatile enough for cones, waffles, or cakes, boosting your dessert menu effortlessly.
Best For: busy ice cream shops, cafes, or snack bars that require high-volume and versatile soft serve production.
Pros:
High capacity producing up to 20L/5.3 gallons per hour, ideal for busy settings
Rapid freeze cycles with initial freezing in 15 minutes and subsequent batches in 6 minutes or less
Durable construction from SUS201 and SUS304 stainless steel for longevity and easy cleaning
Cons:
Requires sufficient space due to its size and elevated design
May have a learning curve for optimal operation and maintenance
Limited to soft serve ice cream, not suitable for hard ice cream varieties
The Commercial Ice Cream Maker Machine with 1200W power and a capacity of up to 5.8 gallons per hour is an ideal choice for busy food establishments that need reliable, high-volume production. Its 7L food-grade stainless steel hopper ensures safety and durability, while the auto-clean system simplifies maintenance with a one-button water rinse and wastewater discharge. Built from high-grade 304 stainless steel, it’s hygienic and easy to clean. The intuitive LED display and user-friendly controls provide precise adjustments for hardness, temperature, and quantity. Powered by a dependable compressor, it offers fast cooling, quiet operation, and energy efficiency—perfect for cafes, restaurants, and dessert shops.
Best For: food trucks, cafes, and busy dessert shops seeking high-capacity, easy-to-maintain ice cream production.
Pros:
High production capacity of up to 5.8 gallons per hour for efficient service
Easy auto-clean system simplifies maintenance and reduces downtime
Durable construction with food-grade 304 stainless steel ensures hygiene and longevity
Cons:
May be bulky for small or limited-space setups
Requires a stable power supply of 1200W, which might not be suitable for all locations
Initial investment cost could be high for small-scale operations
The VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Machine stands out for its impressive 18-28 liters per hour yield, making it an ideal choice for busy cafes, ice cream shops, or small restaurants that need reliable, high-capacity production. With a 1850W motor and a countertop soft serve design supporting three flavors, it’s efficient and versatile. It produces a batch in just 14 minutes, with subsequent batches ready in 4 minutes or less. Built from durable, rust-resistant stainless steel, it’s easy to operate via an LED control panel with auto-clean and pre-cooling features. Despite some support concerns, its high productivity, fast freezing, and user-friendly interface make it a solid commercial option.
Best For: small to medium-sized ice cream shops, cafes, and restaurants seeking high-capacity, efficient soft serve ice cream production.
Pros:
High production capacity of 18-28 liters per hour, suitable for busy commercial environments.
Fast freezing times with initial freeze in 14 minutes and batches ready in 4 minutes or less.
Durable stainless steel construction with user-friendly LED control panel, auto-clean, and pre-cooling features.
Cons:
Limited troubleshooting guidance in the manual and slow customer support responses.
Some reports of motor failure after several months of use and shipping damages.
Mechanical parts and sealing joints require careful handling and maintenance to prevent issues.
A 15L/hour gelato maker like the Koalalko US-ICM12 is ideal for high-volume foodservice operations that need efficient, reliable ice cream production. Its compact tabletop design measures 20.67 x 19.29 x 25.2 inches and weighs 110 pounds, making it suitable for busy cafes, restaurants, and snack bars. Made from durable food-grade stainless steel and equipped with a quality Sanyo compressor, it guarantees consistent performance. Features like automatic operation, a timer, and auto-wash make it easy to use and clean. Perfect for batch freezing and gelato, this machine supports high-demand environments with minimal manual effort.
Best For: high-volume foodservice establishments such as cafes, restaurants, bakeries, snack bars, and hotels that require efficient and reliable ice cream and gelato production.
Pros:
Durable food-grade stainless steel construction ensures longevity and easy cleaning.
Automatic features like timer, auto-wash, and one-key auto-running simplify operation and maintenance.
Compact tabletop design fits well in busy commercial environments without taking up excessive space.
Cons:
Relatively heavy at 110 pounds, which may make relocation difficult.
Customer ratings are average (2.5 out of 5 stars), indicating potential issues with durability or delivery.
Packaging and shipping concerns such as reported delivery damage and broken crates.
If you’re looking to produce large quantities of consistent, single-flavor hard serve ice cream efficiently, this commercial ice cream maker is an excellent choice. It’s a 2000W countertop model with a 1.6-gallon stainless steel hopper, capable of producing up to 24 liters of ice cream per hour. The LCD control panel makes adjusting quantity, hardness, and temperature straightforward. Built with durable, rust-proof stainless steel and a food-grade refrigeration cylinder, it’s designed for long-term use. Its compact size fits well in space-limited environments, making it ideal for restaurants, cafes, snack bars, and dessert shops that demand high-volume, quality ice cream.
Best For: small to medium-sized commercial food establishments such as restaurants, cafes, snack bars, and dessert shops that require high-volume, consistent single-flavor ice cream production.
Pros:
Easy-to-use LCD control panel for quick adjustments of quantity, hardness, and temperature.
Durable stainless steel construction ensures long-term, rust-proof performance.
High production capacity of up to 24 liters of ice cream per hour, suitable for busy settings.
Cons:
Some users report assembly difficulties and unclear instructions.
Lack of comprehensive online guidance may hinder setup for some users.
Relatively heavy weight (205 pounds) may require assistance with installation and relocation.
For anyone running a busy restaurant, snack bar, or dessert shop, the VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Machine stands out with its high-capacity 20-liter (5.3-gallon) production and rapid freezing capabilities. It features an LED display, auto shut-off timer, and one-flavor operation, making it easy to control. Powered by 1400W and equipped with a durable stainless steel body, it quickly produces smooth ice cream in under 20 minutes with room-temperature mixture. Its copper core compressor ensures efficient, quiet operation. While some users find the controls basic and cleaning a bit messy, this machine offers reliable performance for high-volume commercial use.
Best For: restaurants, cafes, and dessert shops seeking high-capacity, efficient ice cream production with minimal setup and operation complexity.
Pros:
Large 20L (5.3 gallons) capacity suitable for high-volume environments
Rapid freezing time under 20 minutes, increasing efficiency
Durable stainless steel construction and quiet copper compressor for reliable operation
Cons:
Basic controls may lead to accidental activation or difficulty in precise adjustments
Cleaning and rinsing can be messy and challenging due to internal blades and drainage issues
Limited batch size flexibility and difficulty sourcing spare parts for repairs
The Kolice Commercial Hard Ice Cream Machine stands out as an ideal choice for small businesses seeking a reliable, compact, and easy-to-use solution. It features a 4.5L capacity, produces about 1 gallon of ice cream per hour, and operates at 110V 60Hz with 1400W power. Made from food-grade stainless steel, it’s durable and hygienic, with a transparent door for monitoring. Its automatic controls, including a timer and auto-wash, simplify operation. While some users note noise and vibration, overall, it offers quick freezing, solid performance, and good value for startups and small shops. Its space-saving design makes it perfect for limited countertops.
Best For: small startups, cafes, and food trucks seeking an affordable, compact, and easy-to-operate ice cream machine for limited production needs.
Pros:
Quick freezing times and reliable performance for small batches
Compact, space-saving design ideal for limited countertops
Made from durable, food-grade stainless steel for hygiene and longevity
Cons:
Noise and vibration during operation can be disruptive
Limited chamber size may restrict batch volume despite high hourly capacity
Hand washing and cleaning can be challenging, especially with plastic parts
The Commercial Ice Maker Machine 1000LBS/24H with Storage Bin is ideal for busy large-scale operations that need a steady supply of high-quality ice. It can produce up to 1000 pounds of full-cube ice daily, perfect for restaurants, bars, and supermarkets. The large 400-pound storage bin ensures continuous availability during peak hours. Its self-cleaning feature, digital controls, and diagnostics make maintenance easy. Built with durable materials and powered by 240V, it’s designed for reliable, efficient operation. Whether serving drinks or food presentation, this machine delivers consistent, slow-melting ice to keep your service smooth and your customers satisfied.
Best For: large restaurants, bars, supermarkets, and commercial kitchens needing a reliable, high-capacity ice supply for busy operations.
Pros:
Produces up to 1000 lbs of full-cube ice daily, ideal for high-volume needs
Large 400-pound storage bin ensures continuous ice availability during peak hours
Equipped with self-cleaning, digital controls, and diagnostics for easy maintenance
Cons:
Heavy weight of 705 pounds may require special installation considerations
Dimensions (approximately 29.92D x 35.04W x 78.74H inches) require ample space for placement
Made in China, which may affect perceptions of quality or service support for some buyers
Vevor’s Soft Serve Ice Cream Machine stands out for its high productivity, making it an excellent choice for busy commercial settings that require quick, consistent ice cream production. It can produce 10-15 liters per hour with minimal downtime, thanks to its rapid freezing capabilities and efficient compressor. The user-friendly touch panel simplifies operation, while automatic cleaning reduces maintenance effort. Made from durable, rust-resistant stainless steel, it’s built to last in high-volume environments. Although heavy and somewhat noisy, it’s ideal for experienced staff who need reliable, high-quality soft serve. Overall, it’s a solid, high-performance machine for cafes, bars, and dessert shops.
Best For: busy commercial establishments like cafes, bars, ice cream shops, and dessert shops that require high-volume, efficient soft serve ice cream production.
Pros:
High productivity with 10-15L of ice cream per hour, suitable for high-demand environments
User-friendly touch panel interface with automatic cleaning for easy operation and maintenance
Durable construction made from rust-resistant SUS201 stainless steel and food-grade SUS304, ensuring longevity
Cons:
Heavyweight (~99 pounds), making it difficult to move or reposition frequently
Loud operation and frequent beeping can be disruptive in quieter settings
Limited serving capacity per cycle (3 cups) and long wait times (up to 15 minutes) between batches
If you’re running a busy café or snack bar that demands consistent, high-volume ice cream production, the VEVOR Commercial Ice Cream Maker is a solid choice. It offers a high yield of 22-30 liters per hour, supporting up to three flavors with dual 6L mixing hoppers and 2L SUS304 cylinders. Its compact dimensions fit well on a countertop, making it suitable for various commercial settings. Powered by 2200W, it ensures efficient, continuous operation with features like pre-cooling and a smart LCD panel for easy control. While it’s durable and effective, keep in mind its weight and some noise during operation. It’s a reliable option for busy venues needing consistent ice cream output.
Best For: busy cafés, snack bars, bakeries, and fast-food outlets that require high-volume, versatile ice cream production with multiple flavors.
Pros:
High yield capacity of 22-30 liters per hour supports large-scale operations
Supports up to three flavors, providing dessert variety for customers
Durable stainless steel construction and smart LCD control panel for easy operation
Cons:
Loud operation and frequent beeping may cause noise issues in some settings
Heavy weight (over 200 pounds) and large size can pose logistical challenges
Limited output per batch (only 3 cups), requiring downtime between servings
For those seeking a reliable home ice cream maker that produces consistently creamy results, the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker with Double-Insulated Freezer Bowl stands out. It offers a 2-quart capacity, perfect for family treats, with a heavy-duty motor that churns ice cream in just 20-25 minutes. The double-insulated bowl needs to be frozen overnight beforehand, ensuring quick and efficient operation. Its compact size fits easily on most countertops, and features like a large ingredient spout and BPA-free materials add to its convenience. While it produces soft serve, you can freeze your ice cream further for a firmer texture. Overall, it’s a dependable choice for homemade frozen delights.
Best For: Home cooks and families seeking quick, reliable, and creamy homemade ice cream with minimal effort and consistent results.
Pros:
Fast churning time of approximately 20-25 minutes for soft-serve texture
Large 2-quart capacity ideal for family servings and gatherings
Double-insulated freezer bowl ensures quick setup and efficient freezing
Cons:
Requires freezing the bowl overnight before use, adding prep time
Produces soft-serve style ice cream that may need additional freezing for firmness
Hand wash only; dishwasher use can damage the bowl and affect performance
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Countercommercial Ice Cream Machine
When selecting a countercommercial ice cream machine, I consider factors like capacity and output to match my needs, along with ease of maintenance to keep things simple. Durability and build quality ensure the machine lasts, while versatility and flavor options let me experiment freely. I also keep in mind power and space requirements to ensure it fits seamlessly into my setup.
Capacity and Output
Choosing the right countercommercial ice cream machine depends largely on its capacity and output, which directly affect how much product you can produce in a given time. Commercial machines typically yield between 10 to 30 liters (about 2.5 to 8 gallons) per hour, making them suitable for different business sizes. Batch size and production rate are key factors; larger models often have multiple cylinders or hoppers for continuous operation. To meet your needs, consider the machine’s maximum hourly output—small models might produce around 3.2 gallons per hour, while high-capacity units can surpass 20 gallons. Matching the machine’s output with your peak demand guarantees efficiency, prevents delays, and keeps your customers satisfied during busy periods.
Ease of Maintenance
Ease of maintenance is a crucial factor because it directly impacts your machine’s uptime and operational efficiency. Machines with automatic cleaning functions and accessible parts make routine upkeep straightforward, saving you time and reducing labor costs. Clear instructions and simple disassembly help guarantee you can clean and maintain your machine quickly, preventing unnecessary downtime. Components made from durable, food-grade materials like stainless steel not only last longer but also simplify sanitization. Fewer mechanical parts mean fewer breakdowns and easier troubleshooting, keeping your operation running smoothly. Additionally, regular maintenance tasks such as water consumption and part replacement should fit comfortably within your schedule. Choosing a machine designed for easy maintenance ensures consistent performance and minimizes disruptions, so your ice cream stays smooth and delicious.
Durability and Build
Durability and build quality are essential considerations because they directly influence how well a countercommercial ice cream machine withstands daily use. A sturdy machine typically features high-quality stainless steel, which resists corrosion, rust, and physical damage, ensuring longevity. Heavy-duty components like reinforced compressors and paddles are designed to handle frequent operation without failing. Reliable materials such as food-grade stainless steel and reinforced seals help prevent leaks, contamination, and breakdowns, extending the machine’s lifespan. The overall design should include a sturdy frame and vibration-resistant parts to minimize wear and noise during continuous production. Regular maintenance and inspections are vital to identify early signs of wear or damage, helping to preserve the machine’s structural integrity over time and ensuring consistent performance.
Versatility and Flavors
A versatile countercommercial ice cream machine enhances your menu by supporting multiple flavors and textures, allowing you to craft a wide range of desserts. With the ability to handle 2-3 flavors at once, you can offer exciting combinations that appeal to diverse tastes. The capacity to produce different textures—from soft serve to firm ice cream—expands your dessert options. Machines that accommodate various ingredient types, like dairy, non-dairy, or mix-ins, boost flavor diversity and creativity. Adjustable hardness settings and quick freeze cycles let you customize each batch to match specific recipes or customer preferences. Additionally, supporting multiple serving styles—cones, cups, waffles, or cakes—makes your offerings more adaptable, helping you cater to a broader audience and elevate your dessert menu.
Power and Space Needs
When selecting a countercommercial ice cream machine, it’s important to take into account its power and space requirements to guarantee it fits seamlessly into your setup. First, check that the machine’s power capacity matches your electrical outlets, especially since models can range from 1000W to 2200W for high-volume needs. Next, consider its footprint and height—countertop models typically measure between 17 and 30 inches in width and depth. Also, think about the weight; heavier units over 100 pounds may need reinforced flooring or extra support. Don’t forget to evaluate the cooling system’s efficiency and cycle times to meet your production demands without delays. Finally, ensure your workspace has adequate ventilation and wiring to handle the machine’s power safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Maintenance Is Required for Commercial Ice Cream Machines?
When it comes to maintaining my commercial ice cream machine, I make sure to clean it thoroughly after each use, paying special attention to the freezing cylinder and mixing components. I also regularly check and replace filters, sanitize all parts, and keep an eye on the compressor’s performance. This routine helps prevent buildup, guarantees ideal texture, and extends the machine’s lifespan, so I can serve consistently delicious treats.
How Do I Troubleshoot Common Machine Malfunctions?
Troubleshooting machine malfunctions can be frustrating, but I find it’s mainly about patience and understanding. When your machine isn’t working, I check for simple issues like power supply problems or clogged nozzles first. If that doesn’t work, I consult the manual or call a technician. Remember, many problems are minor and easily fixable—don’t jump straight to replacing parts. Stay calm, and you’ll usually find the solution quickly.
Which Machine Is Best for High-Volume Production?
When it comes to high-volume production, I recommend choosing a machine with a larger capacity and faster cycle times. Look for models with reliable motors and easy-to-clean components to keep up with demand. I personally favor machines that have programmable settings for consistency. By selecting a durable, high-capacity machine, you’ll maximize efficiency and guarantee smooth, delicious treats even during peak times.
Are These Machines Suitable for Gluten-Free or Allergen-Specific Recipes?
Thinking about whether these machines suit gluten-free or allergen-specific recipes is like choosing the right paint for a delicate art piece—you need flexibility. From my experience, many commercial machines accommodate mix-ins and special ingredients, but it’s essential to check for easy cleaning and allergen control. I’ve seen shops succeed by dedicating specific machines to allergen-free treats, ensuring safety and quality for every customer.
What Are the Energy Consumption Differences Among Models?
When comparing these models, I notice significant energy consumption differences. Some machines use advanced insulation and efficient motors, reducing power needs, while others may consume more energy due to larger compressors or older technology. I always recommend checking the energy ratings and specifications to find a model that balances performance with lower energy use. This way, you save on electricity costs and run your business more sustainably.
Conclusion
I know choosing the right ice cream machine can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—there’s a perfect fit for every need. Even if you think it’s complicated, these top options are designed for easy operation and consistent results. Whether you’re running a small business or just want delicious treats at home, one of these machines will make your ice cream dreams come true. So go ahead, pick one and start scooping!
Beyond the realm of flavor and technique, Adriano recognizes the importance of sustainability and conscious consumption. His writing often explores eco-friendly practices within the ice cream industry, highlighting the use of locally sourced ingredients, reducing waste, and supporting ethical production methods.
15 Best Industrial Ice Cream Machines for Your Business Success
Unleash your business potential with the top 15 industrial ice cream machines for unmatched efficiency and quality – discover the perfect match for your needs!
