Hamilton Beach 68330R 4-Quart Automatic Ice-Cream Maker Review
Favorable reviews for ice cream quality and quantity (four quarts, which is more than any other model on our list) for the Hamilton Beach 68330R, which features an easy-lock lid that lets you watch the process. Some users report it's noisy and some say the motor jams.
The Hamilton Beach 68330R earns finds favor with many consumers because it makes four quarts of ice cream (or sherbet, gelato, frozen yogurt or custard) at a go -- an impressive feat given its surprisingly low price. The ice cream that results with this electric, rock salt-and-ice model is creamy, "yummy," and better than store-bought, say Hamilton Beach 68330R reviews on Amazon. Similar opinions are echoed in Hamilton Beach 68330R reviews on Epinions, where one consumer notes the ice cream passed the test for firm and dense; one user wonders, though, why five batches turned out like milkshakes even after the machine ran for 40 minutes.
Hamilton Beach 68330R reviews indicate that u sers like being able to serve a larger crowd than is possible with the 1.5-quart models that are common in the cheap ice cream maker segment; one Hamilton Beach 68330R review on Rateitall.com notes that if only a couple of people are digging in, leftovers have a shelf life of about two weeks. On the other hand, some users aren't thrilled with the noise or build quality of the Hamilton Beach 68330R. In Hamilton Beach 68330R reviews on several websites, consumers complain about malfunctioning motors, gears that lose teeth, and cracks in the lid after only a few uses; the noise level is more of an irritant than a deal-breaker.
Despite its large capacity, the Hamilton Beach 68330R is relatively small: it measures approximately 12x12x13.5 and weighs 6.5 pounds. It comes with a one-year limited warranty, and should be hand washed. All in all, a decent deal if the unit holds up.
Other Recommended Ice Cream Makers
Cuisinart ICE-20 1.5 Quart Ice Cream Maker
The Cuisinart ICE-20 features a transparent top, removable mixing arm, and a non-stick chamber. Most users love its ease of use (no salt or ice required), consistently creamy ice cream in 20 minutes, and sturdy build. In the unlikely event this machine breaks, it's backed by a three-year warranty, the longest of any we researched. You can save a few dollars by buying a refurbished unit. Read more »
Industrial Revolution's Play & Freeze Ice Cream Maker
This innovative approach to ice cream making is roundly lauded by adults and kids. The Play & Freeze is a lightweight polycarbonate "ball" that makes good ice cream in less than 30 minutes by being kicked or thrown around; it needs no electricity so you can take it anywhere. This one-pint model comes in a variety of colors; the quart version costs about $10 more.
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Deni 5205 Automatic Ice Cream Maker
The Deni 5205 is the only cheap ice cream maker on our list with any frills -- in this case, a candy crusher. Consumers like the ice cream but say the candy crusher is relatively useless. The Deni 5205 features a transparent lid, anti-slip rubber feet, and cord storage, and comes in several colors. Two models without the candy crusher, the 5200 (clear) and 5201 (color choices), are a few dollars cheaper. Read more »
