Most people rely on caffeine to jump start their mornings. Some prefer a simple cup of coffee and cream, but many people look forward to a strong and extravagant latte that requires a machine in order to be made. This may sound like an expensive luxury, however, finding the best latte machine doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. Restaurant-grade latte machines can cost thousands of dollars, but luckily there are many great and affordable options for those who really love their morning lattes.
You don’t need to spend an exorbitant amount of money on a personal machine just to have a great latte every morning. Home latte machines are able to craft delicious homemade beverages while still retailing at an affordable price.
Their easy-to-use and innovative functions allow for informed consumers to craft barista-level lattes from the comfort of their own home— without breaking the bank. Buying coffee day after day can become a significant expense. If you’re looking for a machine that will make you the best latte or cappuccino every morning, keep reading to see our research about some of the best latte machines currently on the market.
What's In a Latte?
A latte is more than just coffee and milk or coffee and froth — it’s a delicate mix of some of the best elements of caffeinated drinks. Coffee can become boring, but a well-crafted latte is always delicious.
The perfect latte starts with smooth espresso, a quality we’ve searched for in all of the coffee machines below. However, good espresso alone is not enough to make a machine effective at delivering a quality latte.
The secret to a delicately crafted latte lies in the froth made from milk. Lattes specifically are crafted with a milky foam topping in mind, unlike just pouring milk over coffee. More focused on providing a quality milky froth than pure foam, as with a cappuccino, the latte stands out from many similar drinks, even those with milk.
The milk should be steamed just right in order to provide the perfect latte. Stretched just enough to reach a velvety consistency, the way the milk of your latte is handled can easily make or break your drink. As you can see, lattes are not for black coffee drinkers.
The milk should be steamed just right in order to provide the perfect latte. Stretched just enough to reach a velvety consistency, the way the milk of your latte is handled can easily make or break your drink.
Choosing the Right Latte Machine
Because there are so many exact specifications for crafting a well-made latte or cappuccino, the task of obtaining the right equipment should not be taken lightly. You want to choose between the machines that excel at creating a smooth espresso while also breathing life into your latte’s froth. If you’re upgrading to escape the mundane routine of black coffee, keep reading to see which of the machines make the most sense for you.
Image | Model | Price |
---|---|---|
Espresso Machine 3.5 Bar 4 Cup Espresso Maker | Check Price | |
Keurig K-Cafe Coffee Maker | Check Price | |
Cappuccino and Latte Pod Machine | Check Price | |
Hamilton Beach Espresso, Latte and Cappuccino Machine | Check Price | |
Miho CM-01A Espresso Machine | Check Price | |
Hamilton Beach Espresso Machine with Steamer | Check Price | |
Yabano Espresso Machine | Check Price | |
EspressoWorks 10 Pc All-In-One Barista Bundle Espresso Machine | Check Price | |
NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Coffee Machine | Check Price | |
Klarstein BellaVita Coffee Machine | Check Price |
Choosing the Right Latte Machine
1. Espresso Machine 3.5 Bar 4 Cup Espresso Maker
While branded as a cappuccino machine, the Sowtech 4-cup espresso maker is actually perfectly equipped to create deliciously crafted lattes.
This machine comes highly reviewed for the smooth espresso it brews, provided it is used correctly. Buyers should be careful to ensure they are brewing with both cold water as well as finely ground coffee.
Provided the machine is used correctly, even the harshest coffee-lovers will likely be satisfied with the resulting espresso. From there, this machine will make crafting your desired beverage simple.
The frothing arm included makes it simple to switch between making lattes, cappuccinos, mochas, and more. That means that when choosing to make a latte, you’ll have to ensure your coffee maker is set to the right consistency. Too much foam and you’ll end up with a consistency more similar to that of a cappuccino.
However, once you’ve properly configured your latte maker, you’re likely going to end up with nearly perfect lattes at an affordable price. For those looking for a simple single-serve latte maker at a relatively inexpensive price, this Sowtech machine fits the bill as one of the best machines available.
Features
- 1 Filter and Funnel
- 1 Spoon
- 1 Carafe
Pros
- Perfect for single-serve lattes
- Easy to use
- Versatile, can also brew cappuccinos
Con
- Small carafe
2. Keurig K-Cafe Coffee Maker
Unlike your standard Keurig coffee maker, this K-Cafe coffee maker comes with everything you’ll need in order to craft more complicated beverages. What’s more, those who enjoy making their cup of coffee to go will love that this maker is able to fit up to a 7.2″ inch travel mug.
Able to brew coffee in various sizes, including 6oz, 8oz, 10oz, and 12oz, this coffee maker is able to provide its users with highly customizable brewed beverages. Complete with a frother, this coffee maker is able to make lattes, cappuccinos, and any other coffee drinks that require milk.
This frother is able to handle all types of milk, including skim, soy, and almond milk, ensuring that your beverages will be customized according to your preferences.
The only downside of this highly customizable coffee maker is that it utilizes coffee pods rather than drip coffee, meaning that the quality of the espresso it brews will likely be slightly lacking, especially when compared to other, more utilitarian espresso makers.
However, those who prefer the simplicity of a machine such as a Keurig will not be disappointed by this upgrade to the traditional K-Cup machine. While coffee snobs may find themselves shying away from the K-Cup model, those looking for a simple brewing experience will likely prefer the model’s simplicity. This coffee machine will make you a great beverage, every time.
Features
- Smart Start
- Compatible with most coffee pods
Pros
- Intuitive Controls
- Easily set to latte mode
- Energy efficient
Con
- Not the most high quality espresso
Bottom Line:
While espresso snobs may find themselves shying away from the K-Cup model, but those looking for a simple brewing experience will likely prefer the model’s simplicity.
3. Cappuccino and Latte Pod Machine
Similar to the Keurig, this Nescafe model coffee machine is a capsule model designed to produce one cup of coffee at a time. Smaller than the previously mentioned model, this unit is great for those looking for a latte machine that will take up minimum counter space.
Designed with coffee house drinks in mind, the Genio is great for the beginning latte consumer. The intuitive LED display allows users to easily monitor the size, intensity, and consistency of their coffee. This allows one to easily switch between brewing a simple cup of coffee to creating that perfect afternoon latte.
For those looking for even more impressive control over their latte, the Genio 2 utilizes 15 bars of pressure which aim to deliver full-bodied and delicious cups of coffee every time.
Even more unique is the Genio’s ability to brew either hot or cold coffee, meaning those looking for iced lattes won’t have to worry about cooling their coffee first.
Those worried about the quality created by the Genio in comparison to other capsule models will likely be pleased with the strong espresso this model produces.
Features
- Easy to use LED display
- 15 bars of pressure
- Hot & cold settings
Pros
- Produces strong espresso
- Easy controls
- Easily create iced lattes
Con
- Little control over foam
Bottom Line:
This is a great capsule coffee maker for those looking for strong espresso.
4. Hamilton Beach Espresso, Latte and Cappuccino Machine
The Hamilton Beach espresso maker is designed to create cafe-quality from the comfort of your own home. Set to create authentic Italian-style espresso, this unit comes equipped with a 15 bar Italian pump.
An easy-to-use slide and lock filter holder allows users to easily fill this unit with coffee grounds, sliding and locking the holder back into place easily. Even better, the top of the filter holder acts like a cup warmer, keeping your cups warm until serving time.
This unit also comes equipped with a professional-grade tamper. The importance of properly tamping the grounds for your espresso cannot be underestimated, as this helps one to brew high quality drinks.
Once your quality espresso is brewed, you’ll then have the convenience of using the included swiveling steam wand to craft your delicious latte. This steam wand easily froths and steams the milk for your lattes, giving you the same control over your lattes a barista in an authentic coffee shop would enjoy.
Those looking for a more authentic espresso and latte crafting experience will appreciate this machine. It is one of the best automatic espresso machines, however, it may not be the right choice for those looking for quick creations as drinks can take a longer time to make with these type of machines.
Features
- Cup warmer
- Steaming wand
- 15 bar pump
Pros
- Creates smooth, authentic espresso
- Allows you to control your latte’s milk
- Provides an authentic latte-brewing experience
Con
- Users must craft their latte every time vs. using a latte setting
Bottom Line:
Those looking for a more authentic espresso and latte crafting experience will appreciate this espresso machine. However, it may not be the right choice for those looking for quick creations.
5. Miho CM-01A Espresso Machine
The Miho combines the best of both worlds when it comes to simple yet effective latte creation. This 3-in-1 coffee and latte machine operates with finely ground coffee to craft exquisite espresso.
While this machine can be used purely to create quality espresso, its attachments and various settings make it simple to craft a delicious latte. Rather than have to steam or froth the milk yourself with a separate attachment, the Miho can be set to take care of the milk for your beverage.
Those looking to create more than one drink at a time will be pleased with the Miho’s ability to make up to 4 cups of espresso at a time.
The Miho is equipped with a filter, carafe, funnel, and spoon in order to scoop and tamp your coffee grounds properly. This is a great and compact, reasonably priced unit that is simple to use. Crafting quality lattes is simple with the power of the Miho.
The Miho is a great and powerful coffee beverage maker, and it’s definitely one of the best coffee machine options overall. This unit combines the best of easy-to-use coffee makers and professional-grade espresso makers that works to serve you perfect drinks every time.
Features
- 3-in-1 brewing functionality
- 3.5 pressure
- NRTL certified
Pros
- Brews 4 cups of espresso
- Creates quality espresso and froth
- Water level and coffee ground gauge
Con
- Less control over milk froth
Bottom Line:
The Miho is a great and powerful latte and espresso maker. Easily to use and brew quality espresso, this unit combines the best of easy-to-use coffee makers and professional-grade espresso makers.
6. Hamilton Beach Espresso Machine with Steamer
The Hamilton Beach Espresso machine is similar to the Miho, but has one distinct advantage. This machine is equipped with a 15-bar Italian pump that works to produce cafe-grade espresso.
This unit also crafts smooth espresso while also utilizing a milk frothing setting to craft lattes and cappuccinos. This machine has the added bonus of being able to brew a double shot of espresso in one set brew.
This machine is one of the best latte and espresso machines in its price range. It comes equipped with a tamper in order to serve you a quality cup of espresso each time.
With the easy to set push-button start and stop and dial settings, the Hamilton Beach espresso machine is a great no-frills espresso and latte machine. While this may be a plus for some, others may want more customizable control over their espresso brewing.
Features
- 15-bar Italian pump
- Milk frother
- Easy-fill removable reservoir
Pros
- Easily brewed, smooth espresso
- Brew lattes and cappuccinos
- Push-button operation
Con
- Simple interface
Bottom Line:
This is a no-frills espresso and latte maker. While this may be a plus for some, others may want more in-depth controls over their espresso brewing.
7. Yabano Espresso Machine
The Yabano is another coffee and espresso machine that is great for those with a passion for coffee creation. Able to brew up to 4 cups of espresso at a time, this unit is great for those looking to brew a few espresso at any given time.
Equipped with a built-in steam wand, the Yabano is able to brew lattes on demand. Small, compact, and easy to clean, there are few units easier to use and manage than the Yabano. Just for ease of use, this option may be considered the best espresso machine for those who are not tech savvy.
The Yabano comes with a detachable funnel device that allows for simple cleaning as well as a removable milk tube. This tube allows users to easily funnel in and brew lattes while providing easy cleaning.
Easy to use, this espresso maker easily utilizes medium ground coffee and any combination of milk in order to craft quality beverages. The 15 bar pressure of this espresso maker crafts strong espresso and easily incorporates any milky froth or foam. This is a huge step up from your morning instant coffee.
Features
- Includes a porafilter
- Comes with an espresso steam wand
- Compact design
Pros
- Brews up to 4 cups at a time
- Easily cleaned
- Simple control knob
Con
- Intro machine less suited to more experienced brewers
8. EspressoWorks 10 Pc All-In-One Barista Bundle Espresso Machine
This impressive 19 bar latte machine has the power to craft some seriously powerful espresso. The EspressoWorks coffee maker is truly an all-in-one machine. Ready for use in just under 45 seconds, the advanced heating system of this machine speedily provides lattes whenever you crave them.
This machine comes complete with a large water tank and single and double shot portafiter baskets. Your caffeine cravings will satisfied quickly, thanks to the advanced system of the EspressoWorks.
This machine takes up quite a bit of counter space, as it is meant for those who are truly serious and dedicated to creating the perfect latte every time. Slightly more intricate and more powerful than many of the other units on this list, the EspressoWorks price tag reflects this.
However, those looking for a truly impressive latte brewing experience, as well as those wishing to accurately recreate a coffee house latte, will likely find the EspressoWorks to be one of the best machines out there.
With a built-in milk frother and reservoir, users can simply set their EspressoWorks to the correct setting and watch as their perfectly blended latte is created in a matter of seconds.
Features
- 19 bar pump pressure system
- Large water tank
- Two portafilter baskets
Pros
- Creates a large amount of espresso in mere seconds
- Single shot and doubt shot options
- Coffee shop grade lattes
Con
- Slightly pricier than many other units on this list
Bottom Line:
While this unit executes perfectly crafted lattes well, its hefty price may serve as a barrier to entry to beginners and casual latte enthusiasts.
9. NESCAFÉ Dolce Gusto Coffee Machine
This machine is unlike any of the others mentioned on this list. Thanks to its modern art deco design, the Nescafe Majesto makes an excellent aesthetic addition to any kitchen space.
The Majesto’s unique design may initially worry more traditional espresso enthusiasts looking for a more classically designed espresso machine. However, the Majesto is equally as powerful as many of the options we’ve previously mentioned.
With its professional level 15 bars of pressure and exclusively designed espresso capsules, the Majesto aims to combine the modern innovation of new coffee makers with a powerful espresso machine.
The result is unlike anything we’ve seen before, and its LED touchscreen will make users feel they’re truly living in the future.
While this unit will make brewing coffee drinks both fun and simple, it’s slightly more expensive than other models. What’s more, all the bells and whistles may detract its usability rather than add to it for traditionalists.
Features
- 15 flavor varieties
- 15 bar pressure brewing
- Software updates over Wi Fi
Pros
- Combines traditional espresso with fun flavors
- Utilizes its own pods to brew strong espresso
- Unique design and tech features
Con
- Not the unit for latte traditionalists
Bottom Line:
While this unit makes brewing espresso drinks both fun and simple, it’s slightly more expensive than other models. What’s more, all the bells and whistles may detract its usability rather than add to it for traditionalists.
10. Klarstein BellaVita Coffee Machine
This is a 3-in-1 espresso and latte machine that provides its users with great variety. On top of crafting smooth espresso and frothed milk, this unit can also make macchiatos and cappuccinos easily.
What’s more, this unit brilliantly cleans and regulates itself, providing a perfectly brewed cup at every turn.
With a large water tank and milk frother, users will be able to brew more than enough espresso to keep them wired throughout the day without having to constantly stop and reload their machine.
This heavy-duty unit is certainly capable of brewing great lattes, but the extras may not be worth it for those simply looking for a simple latte or coffee.
Features
- 1450 watts
- 0,4 liter milk frother
- 1.4 liter water tank
Good
- Includes a self-cleaning system
- Great for a wide variety of drinks
- Powerful espresso brewer
Bad
- Automatic frother built with cappuccinos in mind
Bottom Line:
There are many machines to choose from when considering what will benefit your needs and your space best. There are some very basic and cheap models that can make you a simple drink, and there are luxurious machines that seemingly serve you as if you’re in a coffee house. When choosing between the best espresso machines, it’s important to consider your daily usage and how complicated you want the machine to be to use, and of course, to clean. If you’re looking to make your mornings a little easier, or if you’re just trying to get past that afternoon stretch, check out any of these highly reviewed espresso machines and see how a quality cup of coffee can make your day go from good to great!