Summer calls for cool, delicious treats that can cool you down and satisfy your sweet tooth. An ice cream maker is a perfect addition to your outdoor patio or poolside setup, offering endless homemade options. The Ninja NC701 CREAMi Swirl combines versatility and convenience, making it a top choice for summer desserts.
Listen free for 30 days with Audible
Thousands of audiobooks and originals — cancel anytime.
Start your free trialAs an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
But how does it compare to typical competitors? Let’s explore its features, strengths, and where it might fall short to help you decide if this is the right summer gadget for your water lifestyle.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja NC701 CREAMi Swirl 13-in-1 Soft Serve Ice Cream Ma
- ✔ Dimensions: not specified
- ✔ Weight: not specified
- ✔ Color Options: not specified
Versatility and Program Options
The Ninja NC701 CREAMi offers 13 one-touch programs, allowing you to create a wide variety of frozen treats including ice cream, sorbet, gelato, milkshakes, and frozen yogurt. This breadth of options exceeds many basic ice cream makers that often only produce simple ice cream or sorbet. Its 2-in-1 technology enables you to choose between scoops or swirls, adding a layer of customization that many competitors lack.
While traditional machines may require manual mixing or multiple appliances, the Ninja’s digital programs streamline the process, making it easy for anyone to craft professional-quality desserts at home or poolside.
Design, Storage, and Ease of Use
The Ninja NC701 includes two 16 oz pint containers for convenient storage, perfect for keeping your treats fresh after making them. Dishwasher-safe parts simplify cleanup, and the machine’s BPA-free food-contact components ensure safety during use. However, it requires a 24-hour freezing period before processing, which might be a downside if you’re craving a quick cold treat.
Compared to some competitor models that are more straightforward but offer fewer features, the Ninja’s detailed assembly and multiple parts may take a bit more effort, but the customization options make it worthwhile for serious dessert lovers.
Durability, Warranty, and Price Point
This is a renewed product, meaning it has been thoroughly inspected and comes with a 2-year CPS protection plan. While new models might offer slightly more advanced features or newer designs, the Ninja’s warranty provides peace of mind at a more affordable price point. Its durable, dishwasher-safe parts also promise longevity with proper care.
However, it may be more expensive than some basic competitors that lack multi-program options or swirled desserts, but its versatility justifies the cost for those who want a more comprehensive machine for summer entertaining.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja NC701 CREAMi Swirl 13-in-1 Soft Serve Ice Cream Ma

The Ninja NC701 CREAMi stands out with its 13 programs, reusable pint containers, and 2-in-1 swirl technology, making it an excellent choice for summer water and poolside desserts. While it requires some assembly and planning, its wide range of options makes it a worthwhile investment.
Pros:
- 13 versatile dessert programs
- Includes reusable pint containers
- Dishwasher-safe components
- Customizable ingredients
Cons:
- Requires 24-hour freezing before use
- More parts to assemble
- Higher price than basic models
Best for: Summer poolside hosts and dessert enthusiasts seeking variety
Not ideal for: Those needing quick, no-fuss treats or on a tight budget
Bottom line: A versatile, feature-rich machine ideal for creating a variety of summer frozen treats.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.