When it comes to homemade ice cream, the right machine can make all the difference — but do you really need to splash out on a premium model to get delicious results?
Our world is now filled to the brim with high-tech gadgets, presets, and self-freezing compressors, so is a budget ice cream maker still worth your time? Well, believe it or not, not every delicious scoop starts with a £400 machine.
Some of the best batches I’ve ever churned came from a budget-friendly model I picked up for £35 many years ago — the Duronic IM540.
We’ve tried and tested everything from humble kitchen heroes to all-singing, all-dancing soft serve stations and in this article, we’ll scoop into the pros and cons of both budget and high-end machines, helping you decide which type suits your kitchen, your budget, and your ice cream dreams.
My First Ice Cream Maker (And Why I Still Use It)
The Duronic IM540 was my very first ice cream maker — and despite testing bigger, fancier models over the years, this compact little machine has earned its stripes.
The Duronic Ice Cream Maker might not have all the bells and whistles, but this solid little machine has churned and churned away. I must’ve made thousands of batches in it, and for years it remained my go-to ice cream maker.
I bought mine a good few years ago for just £35, and it’s solid, dependable, and helped me fall in love with homemade ice cream.
It may be basic, but the Duronic is a workhorse — proof that great ice cream doesn’t have to cost a fortune. It’s especially great for beginners, smaller households, or those on a budget.
Duronic IM540 – Quick Specs At A Glance
Technical Specs at a Glance: Here’s a quick look at the Duronic IM540’s size, power, and capacity straight from the manufacturer’s listings:
- Type: Freezer bowl machine
- Capacity: ~1.5 litres
- Size: Approx. 20 x 24 x 22 cm
- Weight: ~2.5kg
- Bowl: Removable aluminium bowl (non-dishwasher safe)
- Power: 220–240V / 50Hz
- Noise Level: Moderate hum during churning
- Extras: Transparent lid for easy viewing, simple on/off operation
Note: Bowl must be pre-frozen for 12–24 hours. I store mine in the freezer full-time so it’s always ready to go — a great habit if you’ve got the space!
👉🏽 Click on the following link if you’d like to take a look at the latest price and availability of the brilliant, budget-friendly Duronic IM540 Ice Cream Maker
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Pros of the Duronic IM540
- Always Ready: The freezer bowl needs pre-freezing (I keep mine in the freezer full-time), so it’s ready whenever inspiration hits.
- Easy to Clean: A quick rinse with warm water and a drop of washing-up liquid — done. (Just never put the bowl in the dishwasher — that’ll ruin the internal cooling elements.)
- Good Batch Size: It makes around 1.5 litres, which is plenty for a family treat or a weekend stash.
- Reliable Results: With a properly chilled mix (give it a couple of hours in the fridge first), it churns out consistently smooth and creamy scoops.
Quick Tips for the Best Results From the Duronic IM540
- Start the machine before pouring in your mixture – this helps to avoid the ice cream mixture freezing solid on the bowl walls.
- Pre-chill your base for 2–4 hours. Cold mix = better texture and a faster churn time.
- Always dry the bowl thoroughly before freezing it again to avoid icy buildup or freezer burn.
✅ Why We Love It:
- Affordable and accessible — a great entry point for beginners
- Compact and easy to store
- Straightforward to use — no confusing settings or extra parts
- Reliable results — creamy, consistent textures every time (with a little technique)
🧊 Things to Keep in Mind:
- Requires you to pre-freeze the bowl (usually 12–24 hours)
- Smaller batch sizes (great for households or personal use)
- Has a moderate noise level during churning
“It may be basic, but the Duronic is a workhorse — proof that great ice cream doesn’t have to cost a fortune.”
Premium Ice Cream Makers – What You Get For Your Money
On the other end of the spectrum, you’ve got high-end machines — think Cuisinart, Ninja Creami, or Magimix Gelato Expert.
These models offer extra features, more power, and plenty of perks for serious scoopers.
Standout Features:
- Built-in compressors — no need to pre-freeze bowls
- Faster batch times (some in under 30 minutes)
- Larger capacities for entertaining or batch prep
- Multiple settings for sorbet, gelato, frozen yoghurt, and more
- Better temperature control and texture consistency
But let’s not pretend they don’t come at a price — many premium machines cost £200–£500+, and their size and weight may not suit every kitchen.
“Premium models are ideal for ice cream enthusiasts, families, or anyone who wants convenience and speed without compromising quality.”
So… Which One’s Right for You?
The best machine isn’t always the priciest — it’s the one that works for your lifestyle.
🔍 Budget vs. Premium At A Glance
| Feature | Budget Ice Cream Maker | Premium Ice Cream Maker |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £30–£80 | £200–£500+ |
| Prep Needed | Pre-freeze bowl | Ready anytime |
| Batch Size | Small to medium | Medium to large |
| Speed | 30–60 mins | 20–40 mins |
| Convenience | Manual process | Set-it-and-forget-it |
| Footprint | Compact | Bulky/heavy |
| Noise | Moderate | Lower (varies) |
Still Unsure? Ask yourself the following:
- How often will I use it?
- Do I have freezer space for a bowl?
- Am I making for one, or feeding a crowd?
- Do I love experimenting with flavours?
Considering these questions might help you work out which style of ice cream maker works best for you – Budget Vs Premium.
The Final Scoop
Whether you’re starting out or levelling up, there’s an ice cream maker for everyone.
If you’re on a budget, the Duronic is a brilliant place to start — it’s affordable, reliable, and makes fantastic ice cream with just a little planning. For those ready to invest in speed and convenience, a premium machine offers a smoother experience and batch after batch of effortless scoops.
Ready to start churning? If you’re looking for a reliable, beginner-friendly machine that delivers great results without breaking the bank, the Duronic IM540 is a brilliant place to begin. 👉🏽 Click here to check current prices and availability
Which ever style you choose – Budget or Premium – homemade ice cream is always a win-win situation, and having the right machine is the cherry on top.
👉🏽 Want help choosing? Check out our article – Beginner’s Guide to the Best Ice Cream Makers – for more in-depth reviews and comparisons.
Head over to our review articles for more in-depth reviews of some other models;
👉🏽 Cuisinart Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker – A Detailed Review
👉🏽 A Detailed Review of the Ninja Creami – Is It Still Worth It in 2025?
👉🏽 Ninja Swirl Vs Ninja Creami – Which Ice Cream Maker Is Worth It In 2025?
We hope that you have enjoyed our article – Budget Vs Premium Ice Cream Makers – Which One Is Best For You? – and that we have given you some scoops for thought on which ice cream maker would suit you best. If you have any questions, please drop us a comment below, and we will be happy to get back to you.
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Hi Jannette, Lovely to see you again.Thank you so much for your kind words. I love that you’re creating a celebration…