Ninja SLUSHi Twist vs Cuisinart Pure Indulgence Ice Cream Maker

The Ninja SLUSHi Twist is a slush machine: it freezes drinks on its own, holds them frozen for hours, and serves from a self-serve handle, so it suits parties and kids' drinks. The Cuisinart Pure Indulgence is a churner: you pre-freeze its bowl, then it makes 2 quarts of ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet or frozen drinks in about 20 minutes. For thick ice cream and a lower commitment, the Cuisinart is the safer pick; for frozen cocktails and slushies without ice or blending, the Ninja wins. Owners of both rate them well, but the Ninja draws complaints about the wait before first use and the time a full batch takes.

• Choose the Ninja SLUSHi Twist if you want slushies and frozen cocktails on tap for a crowd, with two chambers and drinks that stay frozen for hours.
• Choose the Cuisinart Pure Indulgence if you mainly want real ice cream, frozen yogurt and sorbet in small batches, and you have freezer space for the bowl.