When it comes to making delicious homemade ice cream, two popular options from Hamilton Beach stand out: the Hamilton Beach 68881Z and the Hamilton Beach 68880. Both of these models are part of the esteemed line of Hamilton Beach ice cream makers, renowned for their ease of use, affordability, and ability to churn out creamy treats.
Overview
The Hamilton Beach 68881Z and the Hamilton Beach 68880 are both automatic ice cream makers that utilize a frozen bowl to churn and freeze your mixture. They share many similarities, but there are some key differences that set them apart. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, performance, and value of each model to help you decide which one is best for your ice cream-making needs.
Design and Build
Both models have a compact and sleek design, making them perfect for small kitchens or countertops. The Hamilton Beach 68881Z has a slightly more modern look with a stainless steel exterior, while the Hamilton Beach 68880 has a more classic design with a white and silver finish. Both models are easy to assemble and disassemble for cleaning.
Capacity and Churning Time
The Hamilton Beach 68881Z has a 1.5-quart capacity, allowing you to make larger batches of ice cream at once. In contrast, the Hamilton Beach 68880 has a 1-quart capacity. In terms of churning time, both models take around 20-30 minutes to churn and freeze your mixture. However, the Hamilton Beach 68881Z is slightly faster, with some users reporting churning times as short as 15 minutes.
Features
Both models come with a range of features that make them easy to use and clean. They both have a simple on/off switch, a transparent lid for monitoring progress, and a non-stick bowl for effortless ice cream removal. However, the Hamilton Beach 68881Z has an additional feature: a built-in timer that allows you to set your desired churning time.
Performance
In terms of performance, both models produce delicious and creamy ice cream. However, some users have reported that the Hamilton Beach 68881Z produces slightly smoother and more consistent results. This may be due to its faster churning time and more efficient freezing process.
Value
Both models are affordable and offer great value for their price. The Hamilton Beach 68880 is generally priced lower than the Hamilton Beach 68881Z, making it a great option for those on a budget. However, considering the additional features and slightly better performance of the Hamilton Beach 68881Z, it may be worth the extra investment for serious ice cream enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Hamilton Beach 68881Z and the Hamilton Beach 68880 are excellent choices for anyone looking to make delicious homemade ice cream. As part of the reputable line of Hamilton Beach ice cream makers, these models offer ease of use, affordability, and great performance. While the Hamilton Beach 68881Z has some additional features and slightly better performance, the Hamilton Beach 68880 is still a great option for those on a budget or with smaller ice cream-making needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two models will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
