Is homemade gelato actually better than store-bought?

Yes — you control ingredients, freshness, and sugar levels. Homemade gelato has no stabilizers or preservatives and tastes noticeably fresher. The texture from a compressor machine rivals gelato shop quality.

Can I make dairy-free gelato and sorbet?

Absolutely. Every machine on this list handles dairy-free bases — coconut milk, oat milk, and pure fruit sorbets. The Ninja Creami is especially good for alternative bases because you can customize any frozen mixture.

How long does homemade gelato last in the freezer?

About 2 weeks at peak quality, though it is safe to eat longer. Homemade gelato lacks commercial stabilizers so it hardens more over time. Let it sit at room temperature 5-10 minutes before scooping from the freezer.

Best Gelato & Sorbet Makers 2026