Countertop ice cream machines

Countertop gelato machines: Plan space and batch size together

These countertop machines produce gelato in batches: Add prepared mix and extract the finished gelato into suitable containers after the freezing cycle. For soft serve dispensed directly from a tap, choose a suitable countertop soft serve machine.

A compact footprint does not determine the right production capacity. Two countertop machines can have the same external dimensions while processing different quantities of mix. When producing several flavours, the permitted load per freezing cycle matters.

Labo 6/9 and Labo 8/12: The same dimensions, different mix loads

According to their product specifications, the Carpigiani Labo 6/9 XPL P and Labo 8/12 XPL P both have the manufacturer’s stated base dimensions of 36 × 55 × 74 cm (W × D × H). The versions described use 230 V, single phase, 50 Hz. The 6/9 processes 1–1.5 kg of mix per freezing cycle and has a net weight of 85 kg; the 8/12 processes 1.5–2.5 kg and weighs 90 kg net.

Planning example: Processing 2 kg of prepared mix requires two 1 kg batches in the Labo 6/9. In the Labo 8/12, 2 kg falls within the specified range for one cycle. This compares permitted fill quantities, not guaranteed production time or finished gelato yield. The recipe and selected programme must follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Allow working space around the machine

In addition to the machine dimensions, allow the required clearances, a suitable support with sufficient load capacity and access for filling, extraction and cleaning. Include containers, mix preparation and subsequent cooling in the same workflow.

For other formats, see our floor-standing gelato machines. The full gelato machine comparison explains the model families and workflows; suitable pasteurisers support mix preparation.