The Cuisinart Ice-60W and Ice-70 are both high-quality ice cream makers, but they primarily differ in capacity, size, and price. The Ice-60W is a more compact, 1.5-quart machine ideal for smaller households and budgets, while the Ice-70 offers a larger 2-quart capacity and slightly more advanced controls for those who frequently make bigger batches.
Here's a detailed comparison to help you choose the right Cuisinart ice cream maker for your kitchen.
Cuisinart Ice-60W
The Cuisinart Ice-60W is a user-friendly and affordable compressor ice cream maker, perfect for beginners or those with limited counter space. Its key feature is the built-in compressor, meaning you can make batch after batch without ever needing to pre-freeze a bowl. It’s a straightforward machine designed for making delicious homemade ice cream, gelato, or sorbet with minimal fuss.
- What it is: A compressor-style ice cream maker designed for small to medium-sized batches without pre-freezing.
- Key features: 1.5-quart capacity, built-in commercial-style compressor, digital countdown timer, multiple speed options, and a transparent lid.
- Price: Approximately $200
- Dimensions: Approximately 9" x 12" x 12", making it a good fit for smaller kitchens.
- Materials/Construction: Durable plastic housing with a stainless steel exterior, designed for reliability and ease of use.
- Pros: Built-in compressor means no advance planning required. Compact footprint saves counter space. More affordable price point. Simple, intuitive controls are great for beginners.
- Cons: Smaller 1.5-quart capacity isn't ideal for large families or parties. Fewer advanced features compared to premium models. Can be noisy during operation.
This model is perfect for individuals, couples, or small families who want fresh, homemade frozen desserts without committing to a larger, more expensive machine.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping/appliances/ice-60w/
Cuisinart Ice-70
The Cuisinart Ice-70 is a step up in both size and function, positioning itself as the ideal choice for serious home chefs, larger families, and frequent entertainers. Retaining the convenient built-in compressor, it increases the batch size to a full 2 quarts and offers enhanced controls for creating different consistencies for ice cream, gelato, and sorbet. It's built for those who want larger quantities and more control over the final product.
- What it is: A large-capacity, 2-quart compressor ice cream maker with advanced controls for different dessert types.
- Key features: 2-quart capacity freezer bowl, built-in compressor, LCD screen with countdown timer, multiple speed settings optimized for ice cream, gelato, and sorbet, plus a removable mixing paddle.
- Price: Around $300
- Dimensions: Approximately 12" x 15" x 15", requiring more dedicated countertop or storage space.
- Materials/Construction: Sleek brushed stainless steel exterior for a professional look, coupled with sturdy interior components.
- Pros: Large 2-quart capacity is great for families or parties. Specialized speed settings offer better control over texture. The removable paddle makes serving and cleaning simpler. High-quality construction feels very durable.
- Cons: Significantly more expensive. Larger and heavier, making it less convenient for small kitchens or occasional use. The control panel, while more feature-rich, can have a slight learning curve.
The Ice-70 is the machine for enthusiasts who regularly make frozen treats for groups and value the ability to fine-tune each batch.
Shop this product: cuisinart.com/shopping/appliances/ice-70/
Cuisinart Ice-60W vs. Ice-70 Comparison
Capacity & Dimensions
The most significant difference between these two models is capacity. The Cuisinart Ice-60W has a 1.5-quart bowl, which is perfect for about 3-4 servings, making it well-suited for smaller households. The Ice-70 increases this to 2 quarts, yielding enough for 5-6 servings and making it a clear winner for larger families or for when you have guests.
This difference in capacity directly translates to their physical size. The Ice-60W has a compact footprint (9" x 12" x 12"), making it relatively easy to store on a counter or in a cabinet. The Ice-70 is substantially larger (12" x 15" x 15") and will command a permanent spot on your countertop or require significant cabinet space for storage.
Performance & Features
Both machines share the core benefit of a built-in compressor, which allows for continuous, spontaneous ice cream making without pre-freezing anything. However, the Ice-70 offers more nuanced control. It features dedicated speed settings for ice cream (which needs more air) and gelato (which is churned slower for a denser texture). The Ice-60W has multiple speeds but isn't as specialized.
Another convenient feature of the Ice-70 is its easily removable paddle, which simplifies both scooping the finished product and the cleaning process. While the Ice-60W is not difficult to clean, the Ice-70's design makes it just a bit easier.
Materials & Construction
Both models boast a modern aesthetic with stainless steel exteriors that fit well in contemporary kitchens. They feel sturdy and durable, in line with Cuisinart's reputation for quality appliances. Due to its larger size and more extensive use of metal in its housing, the Ice-70 often feels slightly more premium and substantial. Both models typically come with Cuisinart's 3-year limited warranty, offering peace of mind on your investment.
Price & Value
There's a straightforward price difference of about $100 between these machines. At around $200, the Ice-60W offers excellent value for anyone who wants a compressor-style maker without a big investment. It delivers professional results in a smaller, more affordable package.
The Ice-70, at approximately $300, justifies its higher cost with a larger capacity and enhanced features. If you plan to make large batches frequently, or if you're a frozen dessert purist who wants precise control over a gelato's texture, that extra $100 provides tangible benefits and makes the Ice-70 a worthwhile upgrade.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both units are excellent compressor ice cream makers, but they are designed for different users.
Choose the Cuisinart Ice-60W if:
- You have a smaller kitchen with limited counter or storage space.
- You are on a tighter budget and want to stay closer to the $200 price point.
- You typically only make ice cream for 1 to 3 people at a time.
- You are a beginner looking for a simple, reliable machine without extra features.
Choose the Cuisinart Ice-70 if:
- You have a larger family or frequently entertain guests.
- You want the flexibility to make larger 2-quart batches.
- You're an enthusiast who wants specific speed controls for true gelato and sorbet.
- Easy cleaning is a top priority, and you appreciate the removable paddle design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between the Cuisinart Ice-60W and Ice-70?
The primary differences are capacity, size, and price. The Ice-60W makes 1.5 quarts, is more compact, and costs about $200. The Ice-70 makes 2 quarts, is larger, has more specialized settings, and costs around $300.
Do I need to freeze the bowl before making ice cream?
No, neither model requires pre-freezing. Both include a built-in compressor that chills the bowl for you, allowing you to make ice cream whenever you want and even prepare multiple batches back-to-back.
Can these machines make gelato and sorbet?
Yes, both models are versatile enough to make ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt. The Ice-70 has specific speed settings tailored for gelato and sorbet, which gives you slightly better control over the final texture.
How much bigger is the Ice-70?
The Ice-70 measures approximately 12" x 15" x 15", while the Ice-60W is about 9" x 12" x 12". The Ice-70 is noticeably larger and will take up a significant amount of counter or storage space in comparison.
Is the Cuisinart Ice-70 worth the extra $100?
It depends on your needs. If you consistently need to make frozen desserts for more than four people or if you are passionate about a specific texture of gelato, the extra capacity and enhanced controls of the Ice-70 are well worth the price difference. For casual or small-batch use, the Ice-60W offers better value.
How long does it take to make ice cream in these models?
Most recipes will be fully churned and frozen in 25 to 45 minutes, depending on the mix ingredients and desired consistency. Both machines operate on a similar timeline, with the main factor being your recipe, not the model itself.
How difficult are they to clean?
Both are relatively easy to clean. The lids, paddles, and bowls can typically be washed with warm, soapy water (check the manual for dishwasher-safe parts). The Ice-70 has a slight edge because its paddle is easier to remove from the finished ice cream, making the bowl simpler to scrape out and rinse.
Which model is better for a small kitchen?
Unequivocally, the Cuisinart Ice-60W is the better choice for a small kitchen. Its compact dimensions make it much easier to manage, use, and store than the much larger Ice-70.
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