You don’t have to go to a coffee shop whenever you want a bubbly, espresso-based beverage: with the right tools, you can prepare a latte at home. A perfect latte involves an espresso machine and a milk frother because it is made with espresso, steamed milk, and a light layer of foam – and the greatest latte makers integrate these two parts into one ingenious gadget.
We examined over 20 popular and highly-rated models that use ground coffee or coffee pods to create espresso and feature built-in frothers to find the finest latte machines.
Our top picks:
5
BEST LATTE MACHINE WITH MILK FROTHER
Nespresso by De'Longhi Lattissima Touch Espresso Machine with Milk Frother
6
BEST LATTE MACHINE FOR BEGINNERS
Mr. Coffee One-Touch Coffeehouse Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
During their rigorous testing of latte machines, Home Accessories Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab analysts produced over 60 cups of espresso. Our experts also drew on their experience testing a wide range of coffee equipment, including pour-over coffee makers, drip coffee makers,Cold Brew Coffee Makers,Cold Brew Coffee Makers, single-serve coffee machines, French press coffee makers, latte machines, cold brew coffee makers, and coffee makers with grinders. We assessed how effectively latte machines preheat, brew, and foam, their ease of use and cleaning, consistency, flavor, and noise level.
Please continue reading to discover which machines topped our testing and what to look for while shopping.
1
EASIEST TO USE LATTE MACHINE
Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine
NOW 25% OFF
PROS
- Fully automated
- Intuitive touchscreen for automatic grinding, brewing and frothing
- Simple to use and clean
CONS
- In our tests, drinks were not as hot as those from other machines
Type: Superautomatic.
Dimensions: 9.75″ x 17″ x 14.5″.
Water reservoir capacity: 60.8 oz.
Grinder: Yes.
Phillips‘ completely automated latte maker grinds, brews, and froths at the touch of a button. It boasts a simple touchscreen control panel that lets you easily pick and brew five coffee drinks: espresso, cappuccino, latte macchiato, black coffee, and Americano.
It contains a removable, dishwasher-safe milk hopper with markings that tell you how much milk to add to your latte. However, we wish the lines were more prominent and accessible. Testers also remarked on how simple it was to clean the milk frother and the coffee basket with used grounds. The beverages were delicious but light-bodied and not as hot as those from other machines, according to the testers.
2
BEST LATTE MACHINE FOR ICED DRINKS
Keurig K-Cafe Single Serve Latte Maker
NOW 14% OFF
PROS
- Easy-to-use interface and frother
- Frother includes settings for cold, latte and cappuccino
CONS
- No auto-start function
Type: Capsule.
Dimensions: 12.5” x 15.3” x 11.7”.
Water reservoir capacity: 60 oz.
Grinder: No.
This latte maker creates “espresso-style” coffee by creating a concentrated shot from your preferred K-cup (or a Keurig reusable coffee filter, offered separately). Its replaceable water reservoir has a capacity of 60 ounces. We liked this covered stainless steel frother the best of all the latte machines we examined because it was the simplest to use.
It has three settings (cold, latte, and cappuccino) and froths milk till foamy with the push of a button. The inside of the dishwasher-safe frother has a designated fill line for lattes (approximately 6 ounces). It does not have an auto-start function, unlike other Keurig machines, but it is nonetheless quiet, speedy, and simple to use first thing in the morning.
3
BEST LATTE MACHINE WITH GRINDER
De'Longhi La Specialista Prestigio Espresso Machine
PROS
- Grinder automatically measures correct amount of grounds
- Quiet and easy-to-clean frother included
- Delicious espresso
CONS
- Pricey
Type: Semiautomatic.
Dimensions: 15″ x 14.48″ x 17.5″.
Water reservoir capacity: 67.6 oz.
Grinder: Yes.
The De’Longhi La Specialista has valuable extras that make the premium price tag worthwhile.
We appreciate the built-in grinder, which estimates the exact amount of ground coffee required for a single or double shot of espresso. The built-in tamper aids in the extraction of flavors by compressing coffee grinds uniformly. We also like how quickly it preheats, self-cleans, and alerts you when it’s time to descale and clean your coffee maker.
It has a retractable water reservoir and a pull-down tray to bring small cups closer to the espresso spout for fuller crema. Both the espresso maker and the frother were relatively quiet in our tests. Most importantly, the espresso was flavorful and crema-rich, and the frother was simple to clean.
4
MOST VERSATILE LATTE MACHINE
Ninja DualBrew Pro Specialty 12-Cup Drip Maker
NOW 22% OFF
PROS
- Accommodates both ground coffee and K-cups
- Brews classic or rich coffee, coffee over ice and an espresso-like concentrate
CONS
- Milk frother does not heat milk
Type: Capsule, semiautomatic.
Dimensions: 9.13″D x 11.39″ W x 15.54″H.
Water reservoir capacity: 96 oz.
Grinder: No.
This Ninja latte maker’s built-in frother and specialized coffee concentrate function allow for espresso-like drinks in addition to regular coffee. Because of a specific K-cup adapter that can be interchanged with the conventional brew basket, it can hold both ground coffee and K-cups.
You have the option of preparing classic or rich coffee, coffee over ice, or specialty coffee. The water tank can be placed on the machine’s side or back, allowing optimal counter space design.
The milk frother does not steam the milk. Thus, preheated milk is required, according to testers. In particular testing, the frother also produced considerable bubbles in the milk, but smaller, denser bubbles are preferred for an extra-creamy mouthfeel.
5
BEST LATTE MACHINE WITH MILK FROTHER
Nespresso by De'Longhi Lattissima Touch Espresso Machine with Milk Frother
PROS
- Compatible with Nespresso pods
- Dial allows you to adjust how frothy you want your milk
CONS
- Customizable settings are not intuitive
Type: Capsule.
Dimensions: 6.81″D x 12.59″ W x 10.15″H.
Water reservoir capacity: 30 oz.
Grinder: No.
This model is unbeatable for a quick, simple latte machine that uses Nespresso pods.
Fill the removable water reservoir (attached to the back of the machine) and milk container (which may be stored in the refrigerator), insert your Nespresso pod and select an espresso-based beverage from the indicated buttons. Choose from six pre-programmed options: latte, latte macchiato, cappuccino, espresso, lungo, or warm milk froth. An automatic frother will make creamy foam and deliver rich espresso and hot milk. A dial lets you control how frothy your milk is.
We like the easily removable section that holds used, recyclable Nespresso capsules, as well as the adjustable base that accommodates coffee mugs of different sizes. You can also personalize the parameters for each type of drink, altering the volume of espresso and milk delivered. However, some customers needed help with the customization procedure.
6
BEST LATTE MACHINE FOR BEGINNERS
Mr. Coffee One-Touch Coffeehouse Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
NOW 22% OFF
PROS
- Removable milk reservoir
- Easy to use
CONS
- Some users note that this machine is loud
Type: Automatic.
Dimensions: 13″ x 10.6″ x 14.3″.
Water reservoir capacity: 55 oz.
Grinder: No.
This device is identical to the Nespresso machine, but instead of pods, it utilizes ground coffee. The Mr. Coffee Espresso Machine is simple to set up and prime quickly heats up, and is enjoyable to use, making it the finest latte machine for beginners.
While it was noisier than other models, it made great-tasting espresso and flawlessly frothed milk at the touch of a button. It has two removable reservoirs, one for water and one for milk (which can be kept in the refrigerator when unused).
The frothing wand will deliver hot, foamy milk into your cup; we were delighted that steamed milk did not spatter throughout this operation. A dial on the milk canister controls the amount of foam produced, and because the frothing tube can be cleaned with a button, we recommend cleaning it after each use.
7
PROS
- Budget-friendly
- Lets you control steam when frothing milk
- Works with coffee grounds and soft pods
CONS
- Does not include frothing jug
Type: Semiautomatic.
Dimensions: 13″ x 8.2″ x 12.31″.
Water reservoir capacity: 50 oz.
Grinder: No.
This latte maker is simple to use and consistently produces a good latte. It is a beautiful value at just under $100 and rapidly pays for itself with the money you save by avoiding coffee places. It accepts ground coffee or soft coffee pods (coffee in a tea-bag-like circular paper filter) for a single or double shot.
The removable water reservoir carries around 50 ounces of water and is made of BPA-free polycarbonate. The shot size is not automatic so you can choose the size of your espresso shot. You may also use an easy-to-use dial to control the quantity of steam emitted from the steam wand to heat or create foam in your milk, though you will need to purchase a frothing jug separately.
8
PROS
- Fast heat and brew times
- Compact size with generous water reservoir capacity
- Comes with frothing jug
CONS
- Does not include a grinder
Type: Semiautomatic.
Dimensions: 7.75″ x 12.5″ x 12.25″.
Water reservoir capacity: 64 oz.
Grinder: No.
We enjoyed how this simple machine preheated in under five seconds, brewed espresso in approximately 30 seconds, and made hot-frothed milk with amazing microfoam in under one minute (it comes with a steam wand and frothing container). This means you may have a great latte in less than two minutes!
It lets you adjust the temperature and amount of froth in your milk, making it simple to personalize your latte. After each use, the frother purges the inside with clean hot water to prevent clogging.
Not only was the Breville Bambino Plus one of the most miniature latte machines we tested, but it also had one of the giant water tanks (64 ounces), which means less refilling. Our favorite feature is the portafilter’s double-wall basket, which is more forgiving than the single-wall filters found in most espresso machines and helps produce a great espresso even when the coffee is unevenly ground.
How we test latte machines
We gathered over 20 espresso machines in the Lab and brewed more than 60 cups of espresso to determine the best latte machines.
Each latte machine was evaluated based on its brew time, consistency, taste, noise level, and convenience. We assessed the milk ratio of the setting and the quality of the foaming by testing the time and temperature of many espressos and making lattes with both skim and oat milk.
Our favorite picks were simple to assemble operate, and relatively quick to heat, brew, and foam. The most excellent machines created lattes with depth, creaminess, and balance. We preferred latte machines that brew smooth and flavorful espresso (hey, crema!) and quickly and softly froth milk and milk alternatives. (The milk should be deliciously creamy and hot, with just the correct foam from the frother.)
What to consider when purchasing a latte machine
Latte machines are classified into four types: semiautomatic, automatic, superautomatic, and capsule.
✔️Semiautomatic devices often require users to fill a portafilter with finely ground coffee and tamp it. They work with a button or dial that automates the water flow, and the user controls the size of the brew. These devices frequently include a frother wand for use in a pitcher or mug of milk.
Automatic machines typically have pre-programmed drink settings, providing more consistency. They may have a foaming wand or a milk hopper that dispenses the appropriate amount of milk per drink.
Superautomatic machines are all-in-one solutions. They ground the beans, measure them out, and tamp them frequently for you. The drinks are programmed, and this usually includes the amount of milk that will be dispensed from the milk hopper.
To prepare espresso-style coffee drinks, capsule machines employ pods filled with pre-measured coffee. They provide consistency and convenience. Some models we tested had separate frothers, while others had an integrated frother.
Using a frother: There are two kinds of frothers used with latte machines:
✔️A milk hopper attaches to the machine directly or via a straw or tube and works with the machine’s programming to heat, foam, and distribute the milk. Milk hoppers can be made of plastic, Glass, or metal. Glass and plastic are durable and see-through, allowing you to know when to refill; they are also simple to clean. Metal is also easy to clean and lowers plastic usage, although it can be more challenging to calculate the amount of milk available for beverages. Fully automatic milk frothers may allow you to adjust the texture and temperature of your frothed milk.
A frothing wand is a self-heating shaft put into a milk pitcher and heated and frothed using a dial. Wands can achieve similar outcomes to automatic machines, albeit with more expertise.
Capacity: This relates to the power of the water reservoir as well as, if appropriate, the coffee bean hopper and milk hopper. A more extensive water reservoir requires less filling, but a smaller one requires more frequent refilling. Capsule machines often feature smaller water reservoirs than superautomatic machines (but remember that some of that water is needed for priming your grounds and rinsing the device). If your machine includes a bean hopper, it should accommodate 12 to 1 pound of beans and keep them adequately packed and light-protected to preserve flavor. If your device has a milk hopper, ensure enough milk to produce one drink.
✔️Espresso is prepared by passing hot water through finely ground coffee at high pressure. Espresso is defined by the Specialty Coffee Association, a nonprofit member organization representing coffee experts, as “coffee through which [water] has been forced at 9 to 10 atmospheres of pressure.” Most household machines can produce nine bars of pressure. However, others can grow up to 19 bars.
✔️Latte machines have a bigger footprint than single-serve, drip, or espresso-only machines. Before you buy, measure the space where you intend to store the device and confirm the model’s measurements.
What is the difference between espresso and latte machine?
A latte machine (which also creates other espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos, Americanos, and so on) is essentially an espresso machine with a built-in milk frother, and some models also brew drip coffee. At the touch of a button, they can make espresso — a robust and concentrated version of coffee delivered in short shots — as well as heat and froth milk. They’re an excellent buy if you prefer espresso beverages over drip coffee or if you live in a family with a diverse set of tastes.
What type of milk works in a latte machine?
Any milk will work, but not all will produce the same rich, creamy froth with tiny bubbles (microfoam) considered the gold standard of lattes. Whole dairy milk is the finest type for making microfoam since it has the right amount of fat, protein, sugar, and water. Because the molecular makeup of different whole milk brands varies, feel free to try a range of cartons to find your favorite.
Low-fat and skim milk lacks the richness of whole milk and produces more giant bubbles, but there will still be froth. Nondairy milk alternatives differ significantly in fat, protein, and sugar content: some have additional oils and thickeners that produce foam similar to whole milk, while others are mostly water and produce very little foam. If you prefer nondairy milk, experiment with different types and brands to achieve the right latte consistency. Oat milk, in our experience, works best.
Why trust Home Accessories?
Brigit Earley is a writer and editor with over 15 years of expertise covering home products such as furniture and accessories. She researched and reviewed the Coffee maker mentioned in this story with the help of HA Institute professionals, including vacuum scientists and engineers in the HA Institute Textiles Lab.
