Best Ice Cream Makers for Home Use 2025: Top Picks

Tired of pricey, flavorless pints and mystery ingredients? Making your own frozen treats at home solves that—fresher flavor, cleaner ingredients, and endless customization for allergies, kids’ preferences, or fancy dinner-party desserts. Picking the right machine can be confusing, though: do you want a compact countertop model, a heavy-duty compressor, or something quiet and fast?

That’s why we tested options and analyzed performance to bring you the best ice cream makers for home use in 2025. This list reflects hands-on research, hundreds of Amazon reviews, and expert analysis to highlight machines that balance texture, speed, capacity, and ease of cleaning—so you get consistently scoopable results without a lot of trial and error. Whether you want small-batch gelato, vegan sorbets, or family-size tubs, these picks save time, money, and frustration.

Read on to find the perfect ice cream maker for your kitchen and lifestyle.

Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker Review: Your New Favorite Frozen Treat Creator

If you love indulging in homemade ice cream, gelato, or refreshing sorbets, the Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker might just be what you need. This compact and versatile kitchen gadget transforms frozen bases into creamy, delicious treats with minimal effort. Whether you’re aiming for decadent desserts or healthier options like low-sugar or vegan ice creams, this machine offers impressive customization and easy operation — making it an exciting addition to any kitchen.

Key Features of the Ninja NC301 CREAMi

• 7 One-Touch Programs: Effortlessly create Ice Cream, Sorbet, Gelato, Milkshake, Smoothie Bowl, Lite Ice Cream, or Mix-ins with dedicated preset modes that balance speed, pressure, and timing perfectly.
• Creamify Technology: Converts a frozen solid base into a smooth, creamy texture quickly, ensuring your frozen treat is luscious every time.
• Customization & Mix-Ins: Add your favorite chocolates, nuts, fruits, or candies using the Mix-in program to personalize flavors and textures easily.
• Health-Friendly Options: Perfect for making keto-friendly, dairy-free, or vegan frozen treats, giving you total control over ingredients and nutrition.
• Compact Design with Two Pint Containers: Comes with two reusable pint containers and lids, ideal for making multiple flavors or sharing your creations.
• Re-Spin Function: If you want your dessert softer or creamier, the Re-spin option gives you that perfect final touch.
• Powerful 800-Watt Motor: Efficiently processes frozen bases with reliable power.

Pros

• Simple, user-friendly interface with one-touch programs
• Versatile — makes a wide range of frozen treats from gelato to milkshakes
• Allows full ingredient control for dietary preferences
• Compact size fits well in smaller kitchens
• Includes two pint containers for multiple flavors or sharing
• Re-spin function enhances texture on demand

Cons

• Requires overnight freezing of pint containers before use
• Only compatible with specific Ninja CREAMi pint accessories (NC299 and NC300 series)
• No built-in freezer; you need space in your freezer for pints

Performance & User Experience

The Ninja NC301 performs exceptionally well in transforming frozen bases into creamy desserts. Its powerful motor and smart Creamify technology ensure smooth results without ice crystals. The range of preset programs offers convenience for beginners and flexibility for experienced users experimenting with recipes. Cleanup is straightforward due to removable containers and lids. While the overnight freezing step requires planning ahead, the overall process of making frozen treats is quick and rewarding. The mix-in feature lets you customize textures and flavors, enhancing the fun factor especially for kids and families.

Comparison

Compared to similar products like the Cuisinart ICE-21, which primarily focuses on traditional ice cream making, the Ninja NC301 stands out with its multi-functional presets (including sorbet, gelato, and smoothies) and the ability to customize mix-ins easily. Although the Cuisinart model offers a larger capacity, the Ninja’s versatility and compact design make it better suited for those looking for variety and convenience in smaller spaces.

Who Is This Product For?

This ice cream maker is perfect for anyone who enjoys homemade frozen desserts with a personalized touch. It’s especially great for:

• Families with kids who want to get creative in the kitchen
• Health-conscious users seeking keto, vegan, or low-sugar options
• Home cooks who appreciate easy-to-use appliances with customizable settings
• Anyone with limited kitchen space needing a compact but powerful device

Final Verdict

The Ninja NC301 CREAMi Ice Cream Maker offers an outstanding balance of innovation, versatility, and user-friendly operation. Its ability to create a wide array of frozen treats ensures there’s something for everyone, from indulgent gelatos to healthy sorbets. While it requires some freezer prep time and compatibility considerations, the delicious results and customization options make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re a dessert enthusiast or a health-conscious eater, this machine delivers creamy, satisfying treats with ease.

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Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine Review: Quick, Easy & Delicious Frozen Treats

If you love homemade ice cream, frozen yogurt, or sorbet but dread the long wait or complicated cleanup, the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine ICE-21P1 might just be your new best friend. This compact yet powerful machine promises to whip up your favorite frozen desserts in 20 minutes or less, with minimal fuss and hassle. Let’s dive into why this popular model deserves a spot in your kitchen.

Key Features of the Cuisinart ICE-21P1

• Fast Preparation: The built-in mixing paddle churns ingredients efficiently, delivering creamy frozen treats in under 20 minutes.
• Double-Insulated Freezer Bowl: No need to add ice for freezing. The specially designed bowl maintains low temperatures on its own, simplifying setup and cleanup.
• Generous 1.5-Quart Capacity: Perfect for making enough ice cream, frozen yogurt, or sorbet for family and friends.
• Easy-Lock Transparent Lid with Spout: Watch the churning process and conveniently add ingredients mid-cycle without making a mess.
• BPA-Free & Durable Design: Safe materials combined with a limited 3-year warranty offer peace of mind.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Quick freezing time (around 20 minutes)
  • No messy ice or salt required
  • Easy to operate with transparent lid and spout
  • Compact design fits easily on countertops
  • Large enough capacity for family-sized batches
  • Durable construction backed by a 3-year warranty
• Cons:
  • Freezer bowl requires pre-freezing (usually overnight)
  • Single-speed motor limits control over churning speed
  • Not suitable for very large batches beyond 1.5 quarts

Performance & User Experience

The Cuisinart ICE-21P1 excels at producing smooth, creamy ice cream and other frozen desserts with little effort. Users report the mixing paddle evenly blends ingredients, preventing icy clumps or uneven texture. The double-insulated bowl eliminates the nuisance of handling ice and salt, and cleanup is straightforward thanks to the removable paddle and dishwasher-safe parts. Its transparent lid allows you to monitor progress and add mix-ins like nuts or fruit without stopping the machine. Overall, it’s intuitive and reliable, ideal for both beginners and seasoned home chefs.

Comparison with Similar Products

Compared to the Hamilton Beach Ice Cream Maker, which also features a freezer bowl design, the Cuisinart offers a slightly larger capacity and a more robust paddle mechanism, improving texture consistency. While Hamilton Beach models may come at a lower price point, Cuisinart’s build quality and additional warranty coverage make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking durability and performance.

Who Is This Product For?

This machine is perfect for:

• Families who want to make fresh frozen treats at home regularly
• Beginners looking for a simple, foolproof ice cream maker
• Those who dislike the mess and hassle of traditional ice-and-salt machines
• Home cooks who enjoy experimenting with custom ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt recipes

Final Verdict

The Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine ICE-21P1 is a user-friendly, efficient appliance that delivers delicious frozen desserts in a flash. Its thoughtful design—featuring a double-insulated bowl and easy-lock lid—makes it stand out for convenience and quick cleanup. Although it requires pre-freezing the bowl, the consistent results and solid construction justify the wait. Whether for family fun nights or impressing guests with homemade treats, this ice cream maker is a smart addition to your kitchen arsenal.

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Commercial Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker Review: Your At-Home Dessert Delight

If you’ve ever craved creamy, soft serve ice cream but wanted the convenience of making it at home, the Commercial Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker might just be your perfect kitchen companion. Designed for quick, effortless operation, this countertop machine promises delicious frozen treats in under 10 minutes. Whether you’re a family looking to satisfy sweet cravings or a dessert enthusiast eager to experiment with flavors, this machine deserves a closer look.

Key Features

• Fast and Effortless Operation: Thanks to its built-in turbo mechanism, you can enjoy creamy soft serve ice cream in just around 10 minutes, making it ideal for spontaneous cravings.
• Generous 1000ml Capacity: The internal tank holds enough mixture to make about 7-8 cones per batch, perfect for small gatherings or families.
• User-Friendly Design: Simply pour your ingredients in, switch it on, and watch as it churns out delightful desserts without hassle.
• Easy Cleaning & Safety: The removable lid with an ingredient window makes pouring easy, and clean-up is straightforward thanks to detachable parts and a sturdy motor.
• Versatile Usage: Beyond ice cream, you can craft various desserts like yogurt or smoothies, customizing flavors to fit any dietary preference.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Quick production time – ready in 10 minutes.
  • Large enough capacity for family-sized servings.
  • Simple button controls suitable for all skill levels.
  • Lightweight and compact, fitting easily on countertops.
  • Multi-functional for ice cream, yogurt, and smoothies.
  • Removable parts simplify cleaning.
• Cons:
  • Requires pre-freezing the internal container, which demands some planning.
  • Limited power at 20W—may not be suitable for heavy commercial use.
  • Only available in one size (1 Liter), which might be limiting for larger parties.

Performance & User Experience

In everyday use, this ice cream maker impresses with its straightforward operation. Users simply blend their ingredients, pour them into the pre-frozen container, and activate the machine. Within 10 minutes, the result is a smooth, creamy soft serve that rivals many store-bought versions. The motor runs quietly and steadily, and the easy-to-remove lid with a viewing window allows you to monitor progress without interrupting the churning process.

Cleanup is quick, which is a huge plus for busy households. The machine’s compact design doesn’t take up much space and its lightweight build (around 3 kg) makes it easy to handle and store.

Comparison with Similar Products

Compared to models like the Cuisinart ICE-100, which offers multiple frozen dessert options but takes longer to produce ice cream, this Commercial Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker excels in speed and ease of use. While it may lack advanced features found in higher-end machines, its affordability and quick results make it a strong choice for home use. However, if you need larger batch sizes or professional-grade performance, commercial ice cream makers will be more suitable.

Who Is This Product For?

This ice cream maker is perfect for families, dessert lovers, and anyone who enjoys experimenting with homemade frozen treats. It’s especially great for those who want a quick, reliable machine without complicated settings. If you host small get-togethers or simply want the joy of fresh soft serve anytime, this product fits the bill.

Final Verdict

The Commercial Soft Serve Ice Cream Maker offers a fantastic blend of speed, convenience, and versatility for home users. Its large capacity, simple controls, and easy cleaning make it a standout choice for anyone wanting delicious soft serve without waiting in line. While it doesn’t replace heavy-duty commercial machines, it’s ideal for personal use and small social occasions. If you’re looking to bring the ice cream parlor experience home, this machine delivers on flavor and fun.

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Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine Review: Delicious Frozen Treats Made Easy

If you’re a fan of homemade frozen desserts, the Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine ICE30BCP1 is definitely worth a closer look. Combining sleek stainless steel design with user-friendly features, this machine lets you whip up ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet, and more—all in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or want to enjoy fresh desserts anytime, this device promises convenience and quality in one package.

Key Features

• Double-Insulated Freezer Bowl: Holds up to 2 quarts of frozen dessert, maintaining optimal temperature for smooth consistency without needing pre-freezing in a separate freezer.
• Fully Automatic Operation: Equipped with a heavy-duty motor, it churns your desserts to creamy perfection in just 25-30 minutes.
• Large Ingredient Spout: Easily add mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit during the churning process without stopping the machine.
• Compact & Stylish Design: Brushed stainless steel housing fits nicely on any countertop, plus retractable cord storage keeps things tidy.
• Bonus Items Included: Comes with a paddle, replacement lid, recipe book, and a limited 3-year warranty for peace of mind.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• Fast freezing and churning in under 30 minutes
• Large 2-quart capacity ideal for families and parties
• Easy-to-use automatic motor requires minimal effort
• Versatile—makes ice cream, sorbet, frozen yogurt, and frozen drinks
• Durable stainless steel exterior with sleek design
• Cons:
• Freezer bowl needs to be pre-frozen for several hours before use
• Some users might find the 2-quart size limiting for bigger gatherings
• Instructions recommend freezer at 0°F, which might not be standard in all households

Performance & User Experience

The Cuisinart ICE30BCP1 delivers consistently smooth and creamy frozen desserts thanks to its powerful motor and well-insulated bowl. Users report that the machine is quiet and runs smoothly without overheating. The automated operation makes it simple even for beginners—just pour your base, turn it on, and watch the magic happen. The ingredient spout is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to customize your treats with mix-ins during the churning process. Cleanup is straightforward since all removable parts are BPA-free and easy to rinse.

Comparison with Similar Products

Compared to other ice cream makers like the KitchenAid Ice Cream Maker Attachment, which requires a stand mixer, the Cuisinart ICE30BCP1 is a standalone unit with its own motor, offering more flexibility. While some electric models with compressor technology don’t require pre-freezing, they tend to be more expensive and bulkier. This Cuisinart model strikes a great balance between price, ease of use, and performance for most home cooks.

Who Is This Product For?

This ice cream maker is perfect for anyone who loves crafting homemade frozen desserts without fuss. Families, hobbyist chefs, and hosts of casual get-togethers will appreciate its quick cycle times and decent capacity. It’s also ideal for those who want a stylish yet practical appliance that doesn’t take up too much kitchen space.

Final Verdict

The Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker Machine ICE30BCP1 offers excellent value with its combination of speedy performance, versatile functionality, and durable design. It makes homemade ice cream and frozen treats accessible and fun—even for beginners. Although it requires advance preparation with the freezer bowl, the overall convenience and quality results make it a standout choice in its category. If you want a reliable, fully automatic ice cream maker that fits well into everyday life, this Cuisinart model is a fantastic option.

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Pukomc Ice Cream Maker Machine for Home Use Review

If you love homemade ice cream but dread complicated machines or long wait times, the Pukomc Ice Cream Maker Machine might just be your new best kitchen buddy. Designed for ease of use and versatility, this compact appliance lets you create delicious, double-flavored ice creams and frozen yogurts right at home — all without any hassle. Let’s dive into what makes this ice cream maker a fantastic choice for dessert lovers.

Key Features

• Double Ice Cream Bowls: Equipped with two separate freezing bowls, this machine lets you make two different flavors simultaneously, perfect for satisfying varied tastes or dietary preferences.
• Simple Operation: The process is straightforward—freeze the bowls for at least 12 hours, add your ingredients, press start, and in about 20 minutes enjoy your fresh ice cream.
• Built-In Ingredient Tank: You can add mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit during the churning process to customize your dessert exactly how you like it.
• Easy to Clean: Its design ensures easy disassembly and cleaning, making it a practical addition to any kitchen without extra maintenance hassle.
• Recipe Guide Included: Each unit comes with an instruction manual offering useful recipes and tips, such as how to achieve the ideal ice cream hardness.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Ability to make two flavors at once saves time and adds variety.
• No need to pre-make ice cream base—simplifies preparation.
• Compact and stylish design fits well in most kitchens.
• Fast ice cream making process, ready in about 20 minutes.
• Customizable with mix-ins during the churning cycle.

Cons:

• Requires pre-freezing bowls for at least 12 hours, which can limit spontaneity.
• Ice cream texture may need additional refrigeration (about 15 minutes) for firmer results.
• Limited capacity might not be ideal for large families or gatherings.

Performance & User Experience

In real-world use, the Pukomc Ice Cream Maker delivers smooth and creamy results consistently, especially when following the included recipe guidelines. Users appreciate how simple the machine is to operate, even beginners find it intuitive. The dual bowls are a game-changer for households with kids or guests who prefer different flavors. Cleanup is quick and hassle-free, thanks to the detachable components. However, the necessity to freeze bowls well in advance requires some planning, so it’s best suited for those who like to prepare desserts ahead of time.

Comparison

Compared to other entry-level home ice cream makers like the Cuisinart ICE-21, the Pukomc stands out with its dual bowl system allowing two flavors simultaneously, whereas many competitors focus on single-batch output. While the Cuisinart may offer slightly larger capacity, the Pukomc wins on convenience and customization options thanks to its ingredient tank.

Who Is This Product For?

This ice cream maker is perfect for home cooks, families, and dessert enthusiasts who want a quick and easy way to make personalized frozen treats. It’s especially great for those who enjoy experimenting with flavors or who want to entertain guests with variety in their desserts. If you appreciate user-friendly kitchen gadgets that save time and offer versatility, the Pukomc is worth considering.

Final Verdict

The Pukomc Ice Cream Maker Machine offers excellent value for anyone looking to enjoy homemade ice cream without complexity. With its dual-flavor capability, simple controls, and customizable ingredient options, it elevates the ice cream making experience at home. While it requires some freezer prep and isn’t designed for very large batches, its performance, ease of use, and quick results make it a standout product in its category.

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Ninja CREAMi Deluxe Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker Review: Unlock Sweet Creativity at Home

If you’re a fan of homemade frozen desserts, the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe Ice Cream & Frozen Treat Maker is a game-changer. This versatile machine lets you transform your favorite ingredients into delicious ice cream, sorbet, gelato, frozen yogurt, and more with ease. Perfect for family-sized batches and fully customizable recipes, it’s designed to satisfy your sweet tooth while giving you control over what goes inside.

Key Features

• 11-in-1 Functionality: Go beyond traditional ice cream with five new programs including Italian ice and frozen yogurt options, making a variety of frozen treats possible.
• XL Capacity: The two included 24 oz. XL tubs hold 50% more than the original CREAMi tubs, perfect for sharing with family or guests.
• Dual Processing Technology: Create two separate mix-in flavors using the same base—add candy on top for immediate enjoyment and cookies at the bottom for later indulgence.
• Customization Freedom: Easily control ingredients for low sugar, dairy-free, vegan, or protein-packed treats by adding your favorite mix-ins like nuts, fruit, or chocolate.
• Advanced CREAMify Technology: Dual-drive motors combine spinning and downward pressure to transform frozen bases into creamy, smooth textures every time.
• Compact and Easy to Use: Prepare your base, freeze overnight, process with the Deluxe Creamerizer Paddle, and enjoy your frozen treat in just three simple steps.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Large 24 oz. tubs ideal for families
  • Wide range of frozen treat options (11 programs)
  • Customizable recipes for health-conscious users
  • Dual processing feature enhances flavor variety
  • Simple, user-friendly operation
• Cons:
  • Only compatible with Ninja CREAMi NC500 tubs, limiting accessory flexibility
  • Requires overnight freezing, so no instant results
  • Relatively larger size may take up counter space

Performance & User Experience

The Ninja CREAMi Deluxe delivers consistently creamy, smooth frozen desserts with minimal effort. Users appreciate the ability to control sweetness and ingredients, making it ideal for special dietary needs. The dual processing feature is a standout, allowing creative layering of mix-ins that elevate the treat experience. While you do need to plan ahead due to the required freezing time, the straightforward three-step process makes it easy even for beginners to achieve professional-like results.

Comparison

Compared to the original Ninja CREAMi NC100, the Deluxe model offers larger tubs and more programs, providing better value for families or anyone who enjoys experimenting with different frozen treats. While other ice cream machines like the Cuisinart ICE-100 can make creamy ice cream, they often lack the extensive customization and program variety found in the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe.

Who Is This Product For?

This ice cream maker is perfect for families, dessert lovers, and health-conscious individuals who want to create personalized frozen treats at home. It’s especially useful for those with dietary restrictions or preferences, such as low sugar or vegan diets, who want delicious, homemade options without artificial additives.

Final Verdict

The Ninja CREAMi Deluxe is a versatile, easy-to-use frozen dessert maker that brings creativity and convenience together in one sleek package. Its XL capacity and multiple programs make it ideal for family use, while advanced technology ensures smooth and delicious results every time. If you’re looking for a customizable, high-quality ice cream maker that goes beyond the basics, this model is well worth considering.

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DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker Machine (Aqua) Review: Your Personal Soft Serve Dessert Chef

If you love homemade frozen treats but struggle with bulky ice cream machines, the DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker in Aqua is a game-changer. Designed for single servings, this compact device lets you whip up customized soft serve desserts like ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt in just 20 minutes. Its innovative design and ease of use make it a must-have for dessert lovers craving quick, fresh, and personalized frozen delights without the mess.

Key Features

• Versatile Frozen Treats: Create a variety of desserts including ice cream, gelato, sorbet, and frozen yogurt using the same machine.
• Quick and Convenient: Prepare your base ahead by freezing it for 24 hours, then simply add ingredients and press start to enjoy your treat within 20 minutes.
• Built-In Ingredient Chute: Easily mix in your favorite toppings or flavorings mid-cycle for a personalized dessert experience.
• Innovative Mug Design: Functions as a freezer mug, allowing you to eat straight from the machine, eliminating extra bowls or dishes.
• Space-Saving and Easy Storage: Compact size with detachable parts that fit inside the mug for neat storage — perfect for small kitchens.
• Includes Two Bowls: Comes with two freezable bowls, plus a recipe guide to get started right away.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• Fast preparation time—ready in about 20 minutes.
• Personalization with built-in chute for mix-ins.
• Dual bowls allow consecutive servings without waiting.
• Compact, stylish design fits easily in limited kitchen space.
• Easy to clean with detachable parts.
• Cons:
• Only single servings at a time—may not be ideal for large families.
• Requires advance preparation by freezing bowl and base mixture.
• Limited capacity compared to full-sized ice cream makers.

Performance & User Experience

The DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker performs impressively for its size. Users have praised how the machine consistently produces creamy, smooth frozen desserts without the need for ice or salt. The built-in ingredient chute is a standout feature that lets you add chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit during the churning process without stopping the machine — a unique convenience. The freezable mug design also means less cleanup and easy on-the-go enjoyment. While the bowl must be frozen for 24 hours prior, the quick 20-minute churn time compensates well. Overall, it delivers a delightful and efficient user experience for anyone wanting fresh soft serve at home.

Comparison

Compared to traditional countertop ice cream makers like the Cuisinart ICE-21, the DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker offers a more compact, single-serving option with added personalization features. While Cuisinart models can handle larger batches suitable for groups, DASH’s mug design excels in portability and ease of storage. If you want faster, smaller portions with less fuss, DASH wins; for bigger gatherings, a larger machine might be preferable.

Who Is This Product For?

• Individuals or couples who enjoy fresh, homemade frozen treats without large quantities.
• Apartment dwellers or anyone with limited kitchen space.
• Parents looking to involve kids in fun and easy dessert-making activities.
• Those who appreciate customizable snacks with mix-ins and flavor variations.
• People seeking a quick dessert solution with minimal cleanup.

Final Verdict

The DASH My Mug Ice Cream Maker (Aqua) is a clever and convenient little device that transforms the way you enjoy homemade frozen desserts. It’s perfect for anyone who loves soft serve but doesn’t want the hassle of big machines or large batch prep. Its unique mug design, built-in ingredient chute, and two included bowls add value and versatility. While it’s not intended for large portions, it shines in speed, customization, and space-saving benefits. If you want a reliable, fun, and easy-to-use single-serve ice cream maker, this DASH model is definitely worth considering.

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