Buying Guide
Now that you have checked out our list of best latte makers, it’s time to focus on some key elements before you make a decision.
Latte machines are a long term investment. So it’s essential to focus on the right things. Here’s our well-researched buying guide to help you in that process.
Ease of Use:
Each at-home espresso and latte machine is different. They differ in terms of ease and functionality.
There are some machines that are designed for more experienced coffee drinkers. So make sure you are buying something that fits what you will find the easiest to use.
A convenient choice would be Mr. Coffee Cafe Latte Maker.
Just because something has more features that average doesn’t mean it’s ideal for you. Look for latte machines that can add comfort and convenience.
Size:
Size is a big factor in choosing the right machine. If you want to make coffee for more than two people, you need something bigger.
For smaller kitchens, it is ideal to buy sleek and light designs. Look for the dimensions of the coffee machine to measure whether it will fit your countertop or not.
Klarstein BellaVita Coffee Machine is a good in-between size for both larger and smaller kitchens.
Durability:
Coffee machines are kind of a long term investment. If you are looking for a durable option, keep in mind it’s going to be relatively expensive.
Some espresso and latte makers have drastically high price ranges. If you take proper care of them, these premium machines can last decades without any issues.
Gaggia Babila Espresso Machine is beyond doubt the most durable in our list.
If you are going for an affordable option, keep in mind they will probably start to lose their efficiency after one or two years.
Added features:
There are some key features every good quality latte makers should have:
Built-in Coffee Grinder:
A good espresso and latte maker usually comes with a built-in coffee grinder with pre-set options.
Premium machines have multiple grinding options that let you choose from coarse to extremely smooth grind.
Look for latte machines with electric grinders that are easily removable.
Milk Frother:
Every latte machine comes with a milk frother that creates the foam for your cappuccino or latte. Usually, coffee makers have electric milk frothers.
Loo for frothers with temperature control. This prevents your milk from overheating and lets you decide how you want your foam to be.
If you can find coffee makers with both manual and electric frothing systems, that is a cherry on top. These kinds of designs have higher longevity than others.
Water Filter:
A well-made coffee machine would always come with their own water filter. This is particularly common in espresso machines.
As latte machines already have a crema attached to it, adding a filter might make it bulky and huge. If the size is not an issue for you, look for latte machines with built-in water filters.
Control Panel:
For beginners, it is better to look for an at-home latte and espresso machines with pre-set drinks options. This makes the whole process easy and digital.
But if you want the whole barista-style experience, look for a manual system where you have control over the temperature, grinder, and brewer fully.
A manual system might be too complex but if you know how to use it, there is nothing that can be comparable.
Cup Warmer:
Cup warmer is a highly overlooked feature that we often forget to check before buying.
Having a good cup warmer can save up a lot of time in the morning. If you have made more batches than you need, you can simply use them to keep your drink warm for longer.
Versatility:
There are some latte machines that can only make a latte. This is not practical in the long run.
It’s better to buy latte machines that can also make espresso, cappuccino, mocha, americano, and so on.
Having the option to choose both capsule and ground coffee is a great advantage. So look for features like this for ultimate versatility.
Warranty:
A lot of high-quality coffee machines are really expensive. If you spend so much on something, you want to get your money’s worth.
It is wise to check the warranty and return policy before purchasing anything. Most espresso and latte machines come with 1-3 years of warranty depending on the price.
The Keurig Rivo Latte System comes with extensive warranty and brand value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
01. What is the difference between a latte and a cappuccino?
Even though latte and cappuccino have the same ingredients, the ratio makes them totally different from each other.
A traditional latte has more steamed milk and a light layer of foam compared to a cappuccino.
Cappuccino has an even portion of espresso, steamed milk, and foamed milk. Both latte and cappuccino have only one espresso shot in them.
In a latte, the milk, foam, and espresso is blended together to create one harmonious flavor. But cappuccino is distinctly layered to have each of those elements separated.
Both are really delicious and a pleasure to enjoy.
02. Can you make latte with an espresso machine?
You can but it might take longer depending on the machine you are using.
Espresso machines make it easier to brew rich, flavorful coffee. If the machine lacks a milk frother, things get complicated.
Most espresso machines do not come with a built-in milk frother and latte is basically foamed milk with one shot of espresso in it. So you see the dilemma.
If you have a separate milk frother at home, it is easy to make latte with an espresso machine. Otherwise, you have to froth the milk by hand, which can be very tiresome.
03. What should I look for when buying a coffee maker?
To buy a good and long-lasting coffee/latte maker, you need to focus on a few important features:
- Water tank capacity.
- Dual heating system.
- Metal body, preferably stainless steel.
- Steaming and brewing options.
- Milk frothing ability.
- Easy control panel.
If your goal is to make a quick and easy latte at home without too much fuss, these features are very necessary to have in your latte machine. So look for something similar to that.
Check our Buying Guide for full details.
04. How do you make caffe latte at home?
To make the best caffe latte, first brew your coffee with higher concentration for a kick of flavor. Use ground coffee if possible.
Brew the coffee in your espresso and latte machine and forth your milk on the side. When they are done, pour the coffee directly over the frothed milk.
Alternatively, you can heat the milk in a cup and then add the froth over it. Pour your coffee or espresso into the cup.
This is the part where barista’s make beautiful latte art. You can try them to be fun and creative with it.
05. Can you make latte without a milk frother/ crema?
Of course you can. Let’s not forget they didn’t have any digital milk frother back in the olden times.
It takes a while and you might end up with a sore hand but definitely not impossible to do. All you do is, shake some nonfat milk in a jar until it’s foamy.
Then take off the lid and microwave it for a few seconds. Grab a spoonful of foam and pour it in your latte. That’s basically it.
The Verdict
A good rich, milky mug of cappuccino or latte can lift up your whole mood. A hot cup of freshly-brewed coffee makes us feel cozy inside. There is just something about it that feels like home.
Hopefully, with our top 12 best latte makers reviews, we have helped you to find something you really want!
Making your own latte is a lifestyle decision. It is a big step but you will appreciate every second of it.
Coffee making is an art in itself. From grinding to brewing to frothing and finally, to drinking, it is a heavenly therapeutic process and an experience in itself.
Once you pick one of these at-home espresso machines, you will never go back to that Starbucks life.
