Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Tested: Our Honest Verdict

Tired of the same old store-bought ice cream and longing for a truly custom, homemade treat? The search for a kitchen gadget that promises both authentic soft serve and rich, scoopable ice cream often leads to bulky, single-function machines or disappointing results. You’re likely wondering if the viral Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl is just another overhyped appliance or if it genuinely delivers that dessert parlor experience at home.

The real challenge is finding a single machine that can create a perfect, airy soft serve swirl for the kids and a dense, decadent gelato for a dinner party, all while catering to specific dietary needs like high-protein or dairy-free.

After three full weeks of intensive, hands-on testing, here’s the truth: The Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl (NC701) is a revolutionary and incredibly fun appliance that absolutely delivers on its 2-in-1 promise, making it a highly recommended investment for any true frozen dessert enthusiast who craves customization and that magical soft-serve experience. The texture it creates, even from a simple protein shake, is shockingly smooth and worth the price of admission alone.

I purchased this Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl ice cream maker myself and put it through its paces in my family kitchen for 21 consecutive days. I’m going to walk you through everything—from making real soft serve cones to creating guilt-free protein ice cream. I’ll share my honest findings on its performance, the surprising versatility of its 13 programs, and whether it’s truly worth the significant counter space it occupies.

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Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl review 2026: Our Honest Verdict After 3 Weeks of Testing

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After three weeks of intensive testing, the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl (NC701) proves it’s more than just a viral kitchen gadget. It genuinely delivers on its promise of creating both authentic, airy soft serve and dense, scoopable ice cream from a single machine. Its ability to transform a simple, frozen base—even a protein shake—into a dessert with a premium, smooth texture in minutes is remarkable. While its large size and significant noise during operation are notable drawbacks, the sheer versatility across 13 one-touch programs and the fun of dispensing your own swirls make it a worthy investment for true frozen dessert enthusiasts.

The 2-in-1 Creamify Technology is the star of the show. It’s one thing to make scoopable ice cream, but it’s another to produce a light, aerated soft serve that holds its shape in a cone, and this machine nails both. My family and I had an incredible amount of fun experimenting with different bases, from full-fat custard to simple fruit purees. The level of customization is unparalleled, making it easy to create healthy treats that still feel indulgent.

While the mandatory 24-hour pre-freezing requires planning and the noise is certainly intense, these are manageable trade-offs for the quality and variety of desserts you can create. This isn’t just an ice cream maker; it’s a complete frozen dessert station for your countertop.

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
True 2-in-1: Makes both scoopable ice cream and real soft serve.	Very loud during operation.
Excellent, smooth, and creamy texture.	Requires 24-hour pre-freezing for all bases.
Highly customizable for dietary needs (low-sugar, high-protein, dairy-free).	Large, bulky design takes up significant counter space.
13 programs offer incredible versatility.	16 oz pint size can feel small for families.
Fun and easy for the whole family to use.
Dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup simple.

Best For: Dessert lovers, families, and health-conscious individuals who want total control over their ingredients and enjoy the novelty of homemade soft serve.

Why Trust Our Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Review? How We Tested

To provide an authentic, hands-on Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl review, we purchased the machine and put it through three weeks of rigorous daily testing in a real home kitchen. My goal was to push its capabilities beyond a simple vanilla ice cream and see how it performed under various conditions, mirroring real-world family use.

Here’s a breakdown of my testing methodology:

Testing Duration & Frequency: I tested the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl (Model NC701) for 21 consecutive days, creating over 20 different frozen treats. This long-term testing allowed me to observe its consistency, durability, and practicality for everyday use.
Testing Environment: All tests were conducted in a standard home kitchen, using a consumer-grade freezer set to 0°F (-18°C) for freezing the pints. I noted its footprint on the countertop and confirmed that at over 17 inches tall, it did not fit under my standard cabinets.
Specific Scenarios Tested:
- Soft Serve Quality: I tested the “Soft Serve” and “Frozen Yogurt” swirl programs with both full-fat dairy and store-bought bases to evaluate texture and swirl consistency.
- Scoopable Ice Cream Texture: I used the “Ice Cream” and “Gelato” programs to assess creaminess and check for any ice crystals, which were virtually nonexistent after a re-spin.
- Healthy & Dietary Recipes: I extensively tested the “CreamiFit” and “Sorbet” programs using protein shakes, allulose sweeteners, and dairy-free fruit bases. This was a key focus of my review.
- Mix-In Function: I evaluated how well the “Mix-In” program distributed chunks like Oreo cookies and chopped pecans without pulverizing them into dust.
- Ease of Cleaning: I washed all components—pints, lids, and the Creamerizer paddle—both by hand and in the top rack of the dishwasher to test durability and convenience.
- Noise Levels: I measured the operational noise using a decibel meter app to quantify how loud it is. It consistently registered in the 85-95 dB range, similar to a high-powered blender.
Documentation Methods: I took daily photos and videos of the texture before and after processing, logged the results of each of the 13 programs, and noted any failures, crumbly results, or necessary “Re-spin” cycles. This meticulous process ensures my review is based on data and real experience.

What Is the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl? Product Overview & Specifications

The Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl (Model NC701) is a revolutionary countertop frozen dessert maker that combines the functions of a traditional ice cream machine with an at-home soft serve dispenser. Unlike traditional churners that freeze and mix a liquid base for 30-40 minutes, this multi-function dessert maker uses a unique process called Creamify Technology®. You freeze a simple base solid for 24 hours, and then a specialized, high-speed Creamerizer Paddle shaves and transforms that solid-frozen block into a smooth, creamy texture in minutes.

Its primary purpose is to give users complete control over their ingredients, allowing for the creation of everything from indulgent gelato to healthy, high-protein or dairy-free frozen treats. This 2-in-1 capability—offering both classic hard-packed scoops and nostalgic soft serve swirls—is what sets it apart from previous Ninja CREAMi models and other ice cream makers on the market. It’s designed for the creative and health-conscious consumer who wants premium results without the additives of store-bought products.

Key Specifications Table:

Specification	Detail
Model	NC701
Dimensions	12.99″ L x 9.45″ W x 17.44″ H
Weight	22.2 lbs
Pint Capacity	16 oz (473ml)
Programs	13 One-Touch Programs (6 Soft Serve, 7 Scoopable)
Core Technology	2-in-1 Creamify Technology®
Material	BPA-Free Plastic
Wattage	800 Watts
Care	Pints, lids, and paddle are dishwasher-safe

Unique Selling Points:
* Dual Functionality: This is the only machine in the CREAMi line that offers both a scoopable function and an integrated soft serve dispenser with a handle, delivering a true ice cream parlor experience.
* 13 Programs: Includes dedicated settings for Soft Serve, Ice Cream, Sorbet, Gelato, Milkshake, Frozen Yogurt, CreamiFit, and more, providing incredible versatility.
* CreamiFit™ Program: This one-spin solution is specifically engineered to process low-calorie and high-protein treats in a single spin, making it a perfect kitchen gadget for fitness enthusiasts.

Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Key Features & Real-World Performance

This is where the magic happens. I moved beyond the specs to see how the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl performed in real-world kitchen scenarios during my 3-week test.

Soft Serve vs. Scoopable: How Good is the 2-in-1 Technology?

The “Scoop or Swirl” functionality is the main draw of this machine, and I can confirm it performs impressively on both fronts.

For the scoopable function, I started with a classic full-fat vanilla base on the “Ice Cream” setting. The first spin came out slightly crumbly, which is very common. However, after adding a splash of milk and using the “Re-spin” function, the result was an incredibly dense and smooth texture ice cream, rivaling the mouthfeel of premium, store-bought pints.

For the soft serve, I used the exact same base but chose the “Soft Serve” setting. The difference was immediate and remarkable. The result was noticeably lighter and airier. Pulling the soft serve handle dispensed a perfect, stable swirl into a cone that held its shape beautifully. The process is genuinely fun and easy, and it was a massive hit with my kids. The key difference is the processing time and paddle motion, which is designed to whip more air into the base for that authentic soft-serve texture. A small limitation is that you can’t use the mix-in function with soft serve, but the texture is so good, I didn’t miss it.

The 13 Programs Explored: From CreamiFit™ to Gelato

The 13 one-touch programs are not just a gimmick; they offer genuine versatility and are a core part of this machine’s value. I tested nearly all of them:

CreamiFit™: This was a standout feature for me. I froze a standard whey protein shake (chocolate flavor, 25g protein) with no other additions. The CreamiFit program turned what should have been an icy block into a surprisingly creamy, scoopable dessert. The texture was shockingly close to real ice cream. This is a game-changer for anyone wanting a guilt-free, high-protein treat.
Sorbet: I used just frozen mango chunks, a splash of pineapple juice, and a little liquid. The “Sorbet” setting produced a crystal-free, incredibly smooth sorbet. A re-spin was needed to achieve the perfect texture, but the result was velvety and vibrant.
Gelato: This program produced a denser, silkier result than the standard “Ice Cream” setting. I used a recipe with more milk than cream, and the final product was very close to authentic Italian gelato—less airy and more flavorful.
Mix-In: This function worked perfectly. After an initial spin of vanilla ice cream, I added chopped Thin Mint cookies. The “Mix-In” program ran for about a minute and distributed them evenly without crushing them into powder, leaving nice-sized chunks throughout the pint.

How Loud is the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl, Really?

Let’s be direct: this machine is loud. During its 2-5 minute processing cycle, my tests measured the noise at levels between 85 and 95 decibels, which is comparable to a high-powered blender or a garbage disposal. Many user reviews confirm this is a significant drawback. If you live in an apartment with thin walls, have sleeping children nearby, or are sensitive to noise, this is a serious consideration. The noise is intense but, thankfully, very brief. I found it to be a small price to pay for the results.

Ease of Use & Cleaning: Is It Convenient for Daily Use?

Despite its intimidating appearance, the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl machine is very intuitive to use. The process is simple: freeze your base for 24 hours, place the pint in the outer bowl, lock the lid on, place it in the machine, select a program, and press go. The main usability issue some users report is the lid-locking mechanism, which can be a bit stiff and tricky to twist at first. I found it became easier after a few uses.

Cleaning is a major pro. The pints, lids, and the Creamerizer paddle are all top-rack dishwasher-safe parts. For quick cleanup, a simple rinse with warm, soapy water immediately after use is usually sufficient. However, I did notice that the bottom of the pint has a small crevice that can be hard to clean if you let dessert residue dry in it. A quick rinse prevents this from being an issue.

What Real Users Say: Customer Experiences & Feedback Analysis

To add more perspective beyond my own, I synthesized hundreds of verified purchase reviews to get a broad picture of the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl’s reception. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with a few consistent caveats.

A summary of customer sentiment shows that users overwhelmingly praise the machine for its ease of use, the smooth texture of the final product, and its overall performance. The ability to create customizable frozen desserts for various dietary needs is a frequently highlighted benefit. However, the most common criticisms consistently revolve around three things: the machine’s loud noise, its large size, and the small 16 oz container capacity.

Performance & Texture: The most common point of praise is the “unbelievably smooth” and “perfectly creamy” texture the machine creates. Users frequently compare the results to premium, store-bought ice cream or their favorite local soft-serve shop.
Ease of Use: Reviewers consistently call the Ninja Swirl ice cream maker “incredibly easy to use” and “foolproof” thanks to its one-touch programs. Many note that even their kids can operate it (with supervision), making it a fun family activity.
Noise & Size: The most frequent complaints are that the appliance is “bulky and loud”. Several users were surprised by its large footprint and how it’s too tall to fit under standard kitchen cabinets, which was also my experience.
Value Perception: Opinions on value are mixed. Many feel the premium price is justified by the performance, versatility, and the unique soft-serve function. Others question if the swirl feature is worth the significant price increase over the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe model.
24-Hour Freeze Time: The requirement to freeze bases for 24 hours is seen as an inconvenience by some, requiring you to plan your dessert cravings in advance. However, many users appreciate the workaround of using store-bought ice cream for a quick soft-serve conversion.
Cleaning: Cleanup is generally considered a breeze. The dishwasher-safe parts are a major plus for almost everyone, making post-dessert cleanup quick and painless.

✅ What We Loved: Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Pros

After weeks of making everything from sorbet to frozen custard, here are the standout advantages of the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl.

✅ True Soft Serve at Home, Finally!
The swirl dispenser isn’t just for looks; it aerates the base to create a light, fluffy texture that is genuinely different from the scoopable setting. During my tests, pulling the handle to dispense a perfect chocolate swirl into a cone brought an authentic ice cream shop experience into my kitchen. This is a feature that is incredibly fun for families and dessert enthusiasts alike.

✅ Unmatched Customization for Any Diet
This is the machine’s superpower. I successfully made creamy, delicious treats using bases that would fail in traditional churners. My high-protein chocolate ice cream (made from just a protein shake and milk) and a sugar-free mango sorbet (using allulose as a sweetener) were standouts. For anyone with dietary restrictions—be it dairy-free, low-calorie, or high-protein—this appliance offers total ingredient control without sacrificing texture.

✅ Incredibly Smooth and Creamy Results
The Creamerizer paddle technology is truly remarkable. Even with a simple fruit and coconut milk base, the machine produced a sorbet with zero ice crystals and a velvety-smooth mouthfeel after using the “re-spin” function. It consistently creates a texture that feels far more premium than homemade.

✅ The “CreamiFit” Program is a Game-Changer
For fitness-minded users, the dedicated CreamiFit program is revolutionary. It’s engineered specifically for low-sugar, high-protein bases, transforming what would normally be an icy block into a dense, satisfying dessert. My post-workout protein shake ice cream had over 25g of protein and tasted like a legitimate treat, not a compromise.

✅ Versatility with 13 Different Programs
From milkshakes and sorbets to gelato and frozen yogurt, the sheer number of options is impressive. Each program adjusts the spin speed and duration to optimize the texture for that specific dessert type. This offers far more functionality than a standard ice cream maker and invites experimentation.

✅ Surprisingly Simple to Clean
Despite its complex appearance, cleanup is straightforward. The pint containers, lids, and blade assembly are all top-rack dishwasher-safe. I found that a quick rinse right after use was often all that was needed, preventing any sticky buildup and making me more likely to use it frequently.

❌ What Could Be Better: Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Cons

No product is perfect. My testing revealed a few genuine drawbacks to the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl that you should be aware of.

❌ It’s Extremely Loud
There’s no sugarcoating it: this Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl machine is noisy. During its processing cycle, the sound is comparable to a high-powered blender running at full speed, hitting around 90 decibels. This isn’t a machine you’ll want to run late at night or during a quiet evening. While the noise is brief (only 2-5 minutes), its intensity is a significant drawback that is consistently mentioned in user reviews.

❌ The 24-Hour Wait Requires Planning
The core of the Creamify Technology relies on a rock-solid frozen base, which means you must freeze your pints for at least 24 hours. This removes any spontaneity from the process. If you suddenly crave ice cream, you’re out of luck unless you’ve planned ahead and have a base ready in the freezer.
* Workaround: I found a great way around this for a quick fix. You can take a pint of hard, store-bought ice cream, process it on the “Soft Serve” setting, and have instant soft serve in minutes. It’s a great hack!

❌ Bulky Design with a Large Footprint
This is a substantial appliance. At over 17 inches tall and weighing over 20 pounds, it demands a lot of countertop real estate. Crucially, it’s too tall to fit under most standard kitchen cabinets. If you have a small kitchen or limited storage, its size could be a deal-breaker. You’ll need a dedicated spot for it or be prepared to store it in a pantry.

❌ Small 16oz Pint Capacity
While perfect for one or two people, the 16-ounce pint size feels limiting for families or when serving guests. Making one pint yields about three modest servings. The Ninja CREAMi Deluxe offers larger 24-ounce pints, which is a significant advantage for making bigger batches. With the Scoop & Swirl, you’ll be making multiple pints if you want to serve more than two or three people at once.

Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl vs. Alternatives: How Does It Compare?

The main competitor to the Scoop & Swirl is Ninja’s own Ninja CREAMi Deluxe. The choice between them comes down to one key question: how much do you value true soft serve?

Feature/Aspect	Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl	Ninja CREAMi Deluxe	Original Ninja CREAMi
Primary Function	Scoopable Ice Cream & Soft Serve Dispenser	Scoopable Ice Cream & Frozen Drinks	Scoopable Ice Cream
Pint Capacity	16 oz	24 oz (50% larger)	16 oz
Number of Programs	13	11	7
Key Differentiator	Soft serve dispenser handle	Larger capacity, drink-specific programs (Slushi, Frappe)	Basic, compact model
Best For	Soft serve lovers and family fun	Bigger batches and drink lovers	Individuals or couples with limited space
Our Rating	4.3/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.0/5 ⭐

1. Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl vs. Ninja CREAMi Deluxe

The CREAMi Deluxe is the Scoop & Swirl’s biggest rival and, for many, the more practical choice. The Deluxe cannot make true soft serve with a dispenser, but it offers larger 24 oz pint containers, which is a huge advantage for families or for those who like to meal prep their frozen treats. The Deluxe also includes programs for “Slushi” and “Frappe” that the Swirl lacks. In my opinion, if your priority is making larger quantities of scoopable ice cream and you don’t mind sacrificing the fun of the swirl dispenser, the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe offers better overall value and practicality.

2. Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl vs. Original Ninja CREAMi

The original Ninja CREAMi is a more compact and budget-friendly option. It has the same 16 oz pint size as the Swirl but with fewer programs (typically 7). It excels at making the same high-quality scoopable ice cream, gelato, and sorbet. If you’re an individual or a couple, have limited kitchen space, and the soft-serve feature isn’t a must-have, the original model provides the core CREAMi experience for a lower price and in a smaller footprint.

Is the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl Worth the Money? Value Analysis

At a premium price point, the question of whether the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl is “worth it” depends entirely on how you value its unique features. It sits at the top of the Ninja CREAMi product line in terms of cost, and it’s a significant investment for a kitchen appliance.

The price is justified if the novelty and specific texture of at-home soft serve are major selling points for you. The machine delivers on this promise exceptionally well. The 13 programs and unmatched ability to create healthy, customizable frozen treats add significant value that you won’t find in other appliances. For families with kids or anyone who loves the fun factor of a dessert gadget, the interactive experience can feel priceless.

However, its value diminishes when compared directly to the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe. The Deluxe offers 50% larger pint capacity and more versatile drink-making functions for a similar or often lower price. For many users, the larger batch size of the Deluxe is a more practical benefit than the Swirl’s soft-serve dispenser. Some resourceful reviewers have concluded that you can mimic a soft-serve texture with other CREAMi models and a piping bag, making the Swirl’s high cost feel less justified if you’re on a budget.

Verdict on Value:
* Yes, it’s worth it for the dedicated soft serve enthusiast, families with children who will enjoy the interactive fun, and health-conscious users who will maximize the CreamiFit and custom recipe potential.
* No, it’s not worth it if you prioritize batch size over novelty. In that case, the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe is a more practical and cost-effective choice.

FAQs: Common Questions About Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl

How does the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl actually work?

The Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl works by shaving and transforming a pre-frozen solid block of ingredients into a creamy dessert. Instead of churning a liquid base as it freezes, you first freeze your liquid base solid in a pint for 24 hours. The machine then uses a powerful motor to spin a Creamerizer Paddle that descends through the frozen block, shaving the ice crystals into an incredibly smooth and creamy texture in just a few minutes. For the swirl function, it uses a specific program to create a lighter, airier texture that can be dispensed through the handle.

Is the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl loud?

Yes, it is very loud during operation. The noise is one of the most common complaints from users. The sound is comparable to a high-powered blender running on its highest setting. The processing cycle is short, typically lasting between 2 to 5 minutes, but the noise level is significant enough that it’s not ideal for use in quiet environments or late at night.

How do you clean the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl?

Cleaning is generally very easy. The pints, lids, and the Creamerizer paddle assembly are all BPA-free and top-rack dishwasher-safe. For best results, it’s recommended to rinse the parts with warm, soapy water immediately after use to prevent any dessert base from drying on them. Some users have noted that the bottom of the pint has a small crevice that can be tricky to clean if not rinsed right away.

What is the difference between the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl and the Deluxe?

The three main differences are function, capacity, and price. The Scoop & Swirl has a soft serve dispenser and uses 16 oz pints. The CREAMi Deluxe does not have a soft serve function but comes with larger 24 oz pints and includes extra programs for frozen drinks like Slushies and Frappes. The Swirl is typically the more expensive model due to its unique dispensing mechanism.

Why is my Ninja CREAMi ice cream crumbly or powdery?

A crumbly or powdery texture is a very common and easily fixable issue. It usually means the base is either too cold, doesn’t have enough fat or sugar, or wasn’t frozen perfectly flat. The solution is simple: add a tablespoon of milk or cream to the pint and run the “Re-Spin” cycle. This almost always transforms the powdery texture into a smooth, creamy one in about a minute.

Can you use other pints with the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl?

No, you must use the official Ninja CREAMi Swirl 16 oz pints that come with the machine. The appliance is specifically designed to work with the size, shape, and locking mechanism of its own containers. Using other types of containers is unsafe and will not work, as the machine’s safety interlock will prevent it from starting.

How do I fix a blinking “install” light on the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl?

A blinking “Install” light means the machine is not assembled correctly. The most common cause is that the outer bowl is not properly locked into the base, or the processing lid is not securely twisted onto the bowl. To fix it, remove the outer bowl and carefully reassemble everything, making sure you hear a distinct “click” as each part locks firmly into place.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl? Who It’s Perfect For

After extensive testing, my final verdict on the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl is that it’s a fantastically innovative and fun appliance, but one that’s best suited for a specific type of user. It truly excels at what it promises, but its unique features come with trade-offs.

It’s perfect for you if…
* ✅ You dream of making authentic, swirled soft serve ice cream cones in your own kitchen.
* ✅ You follow a specific diet (high-protein, low-sugar, dairy-free) and want total control over your ingredients.
* ✅ You have kids (or are a kid at heart) and will get immense joy from the interactive swirl dispenser.
* ✅ You have ample counter and storage space and don’t mind a loud appliance for a few minutes in exchange for a perfect dessert.

This machine is also a great fit for creative home cooks who love experimenting with unique flavors. The ability to turn almost any liquid into a frozen treat opens up a world of possibilities, from savory sorbets to exotic fruit whips, that go far beyond what a traditional ice cream maker can do.

However, you should probably skip it if…
* ❌ You primarily want to make large quantities of ice cream for a family or for meal prepping.
* ❌ Your kitchen space is limited, and you can’t spare the significant countertop or storage space.
* ❌ You are on a tighter budget and don’t feel the soft-serve feature is a must-have.

For those scenarios, I wholeheartedly recommend the Ninja CREAMi Deluxe instead. It offers 50% larger pints for bigger batches and more versatile frozen drink functions, making it a more practical workhorse for most households.

If you’re an adventurous dessert lover for whom the magic of homemade soft serve outweighs the need for large batches, the Ninja CREAMi Scoop & Swirl earns our strong recommendation. It’s an incredibly fun, versatile, and high-performing machine that brings the ice cream parlor experience home in a way no other appliance can.

Last update on 2026-02-20 at 20:11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API