Finding The Best Latte Machine In 2022 | Buyer’s Guide

Ah, latte. Milky mug of heaven. Silky blend of rich espresso, steamed milk, and creamy foam.

It’s creamier than its other espresso-laden counterparts, such as the cappuccino and the macchiato; a latte is made with a fairly large amount of steamed milk. Latte is a classic coffee that uses a ratio of at least one shot of espresso to 2 ounces of steamed milk with a thin layer of foam. No wonder why it is the most popular coffee drink in the world.

Americans can’t get enough of this creamy drink. According to the Specialty Coffee Association, Americans order over 70 million lattes per year. Now that is impressive!

To make a delicious-worthy latte, investing in a handheld milk frother to go with your basic espresso maker and adding the right amount of milk and foam with precision can be a hassle. That’s where latte machines come into play.

A Latte machine is equipped with a built-in milk frother or steaming wand. You’ll be able to both brew espresso and froth milk. Buying a latte machine will save you from the hassle of investing in a handheld milk frother to go with your basic espresso maker.

Here are the 7 best latte machines I’ve found. With these specialty latte machines, all you need is coffee and milk and a few extra moments to make a delicious cup of latte at home.

Give them a shot!

What Makes It A Latte Machine?

As the name suggests, latte makers are designed to make lattes. The latte machine handles the milk very well, which is one key ingredient of a latte. It comes with a built-in steam wand or frother that hangs off the slide. To make a delicious latte, the attached frother forces steam into your milk, causing it to foam.

If you are a latte lover and don’t want your wallet to lose its weight after buying, then a latte maker is ideal for you.

Types Of Latte Machines

Several different options are available when it comes to choosing the best espresso machine for a latte,  including semi-automatic, super-automatic, and coffee pod. Read on to learn more about these types of machines.

1. Super-Automatic Latte Machine

Super Automatic latte machines are easy to operate and make brewing your cup of joe super easy. They come with built-in coffee grinders as well as milk frothers for cappuccinos and lattes. You can customize your latte drink by adjusting your preferred coffee strength, drink volume, temperature, and more based on your liking and tastes. You just need to add the water, coffee, and milk to the machine, then sit back and rest and let the machine do the rest, from tamping coffee grounds perfectly to brewing, micro foaming, and milk steaming in seconds.

So every time you press the button, a fresh shot of latte shoots out the nozzles to your specifications. Single, double, one cup, two cups… you can get it with the push of a button. 

If you want complete control over the brewing process, you should invest in a super-automatic latte-making machine.

One thing to take into account with these machines is that they are expensive and can cost over $100.

2. Semi-Automatic Latte Machine

Semi-automatic machines are pretty popular among home baristas. If latte art is your thing, semi-automatic is your way to go. They put the brewing process entirely in your hands to craft your perfect drink!

For those who would love to bring the cafe home and brew their own latte and practice their latte art skill, semi-automatic latte machines might be a good fit. It’s also very affordable compared to super-automatic latte machines.

Single boilers are most common in semi-automatic machines. This One boiler is used for both brewing and steaming and is fine for you if you’ll be making a latte for yourself and your partner. It’s a little bit slow and requires patience to allow the machine to heat up after pulling an espresso shot. However, if you have multiple coffee drinkers in the house, look for a machine with Dual boilers, one for brewing and one for steaming. So without any wait, you’ll be able to brew and steam at the same time.

3. Coffee Pod Latte Machine

Coffee pod latte machines are the most convenient ones and are a quick way to get your morning going. Place your preferred flavor pod in the machine, add fresh water, place your coffee mug, and press start. In a minute or two, you’ll have your new fresh and hot coffee right when you want it.

A coffee pod machine is a perfect option for those who prefer the convenience and speed of brewing coffee.

Our Picks For The Best Latte Machines In 2022

We’ve come to the best part of shopping for a new coffee toy… Picking and buying one! 

It can be daunting having to navigate through all the different options, which is why I’ve created a list of the best latte machines to help you get started. Check these out and look at the pros & cons of each to see how well they tickle your fancy.

1. Keurig K-Cafe Single-Serve, Latte & Cappuccino Maker – Best Latte Machine Overall

View On Amazon | $199.99

Specs: Brand: Keurig | Material: Plastic | Color: Charcoal & Nickel | Weight: 13.12 Pounds | Dimensions: 17.32*14.17*14.41 inches

We start off our list of best latte machines with the Keurig K-Cafe Single-Serve Coffee Maker. With this machine, why get into the mess of hand grind fresh coffee beans when you can easily enjoy delicious lattes and cappuccinos with K-Cup pods. The machine is highly convenient to operate. Just place the k-cup pod of any desirable size, select your brew strength & cup size and let the machine do the rest for you – it’s simple as that.

The best part of this machine is the Frother. Instead of a standard steam wand, this item features a milk frother cup with measurement markings inside. It comes with three settings, i.e., cold, latte and cappuccino. With this machine, you can easily froth milk at a low temperature for your cold beverages. 

Furthermore, Its removable water reservoir holds 60 ounces of water, saving you time and simplifying your morning routine. Refilling the reservoir is quite simple as well. The auto-off feature also comes in handy as it functions to automatically turn your brewer off 2 hours after the last brew, thus making this machine energy efficient. The machine also has a Brewer Maintenance Reminder that alerts automatically when it’s time to descale your coffee. Remember, Descaling is crucial as it removes built-up calcium deposits so that you get the best-tasting brew possible.

The only noticeable downside is that it’s not a true espresso machine. Ever wondered what a True Espresso Machine is? Well, True espresso requires brewing under pressure. This coffee maker does not pressurize the water, though, but still, to some extent, you can alter the brew strength to something similar to espresso.

2. Capresso 116.04 Pump Espresso & Cappuccino Maker – The Runner Up

View On Amazon | $180

Specs: Brand: Capresso | Material: Plastic | Color: Black | Weight: 4.08 Kilograms | Dimensions: 10.25*8.25*11.75 inches

Next on our list comes the Capresso 116.04 Pump Espresso & Cappuccino Machine. For coffee addicts, it’s a great beginner-friendly machine that’s very easy to use. The unit comes with a simple on/off button with indicator lights and one dial that turns left for brewing espresso and right for frothing milk.

The machine features a stainless steel construction that is both heavy-duty and aesthetically pleasing as well. The top of the machine also comes with the integrated cup warming tray that can be used as a passive cup warmer, thus helping in keeping drinks warmer for longer.

Its ThermoBlock heating system with 15 bars of pressure produces perfect high-pressure brewed espresso. At the same time, the Swivel Frother with unlimited steam output does the rest by perfectly frothing or steaming milk for cappuccinos and lattes. Furthermore, you’ll get a 46-oz water container that’s easily removable hence refillable. For user convenience, you can pour one or two drinks at a time with the dual sieves on this latte machine; also,the machine is built to be compatible with both coffee grounds and soft coffee pods.

In short, it’s a great coffee maker that gets the job done in a matter of minutes. 

3. Mr. Coffee One-Touch Espresso Maker – Best Easy-to-operate

View On Amazon | $274.99

Specs: Brand: Mr. Coffee | Material: Plastic | Color: Silver | Weight: 15.27 Pounds | Dimensions: 13*10.6*14.3 inches

With the high cost of the coffee house drinks, isn’t it time you bring the coffee house home? With the Mr. Coffee One-Touch Coffee Maker, you can make rich-tasting coffee with a simple push of a button. Here is what you can expect from this great coffee maker.

First of all, Mr. Coffee’s 19 Bar Italian pump delivers ideal pressure to extract robust coffee flavors from almost any beans and grind. Secondly, its easy-to-use one-touch control panel makes brewing easier than ever while keeping the guesswork at bay. The unit arrives with two removable reservoirs, one for water while the other for milk. As the reservoirs are removable hence can be stored in the refrigerator too.

This machine features a Thermocouple heating system that functions to heat water for piping hot drinks evenly. How can we forget the frother? Like all latte machines, this one also features a milk frother that allows the consumer to create latte milk that is both light and creamy. The milk is automatically dispensed from the reservoir and through the steam wand into the mug. However, we’re impressed that the steamed milk didn’t even splatter onto our counter. A small dial is present on the top of the milk canister allowing the user to take control of the amount of foam created.

After you’re done with the brewing, you can easily clean the frothing tube with the touch of a button. To conveniently fit tall and short mugs, the cup tray is also adjustable. It’s recommended to read the user manual first before trying this machine for the first time. 

Overall, we’d say that the Mr. Coffee One-Touch Latte Machine is a super great automatic appliance that’ll suit your latte needs and perform all the hard work for you.

4. Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine – Best Seller On Amazon

View On Amazon | $699.95

Specs: Brand: Breville | Material: Steel | Color: Stainless Steel | Weight: 23 Pounds | Dimensions: 12.5*12.6*13.1 inches

For those lovely home baristas who want to upgrade from smaller, affordable coffee and latte makers to an all-in-one machine that will both develop their skills and increase the quality of their homemade lattes, the Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine is indeed a perfect choice.

As we all know, fresh ground coffee beans highly influence the taste of the final brew. The Breville’s Barista Express features a stainless steel burr grinder that efficiently produces consistent coffee grounds with adjustable grinding settings. Also, the powerful 1,600-watt thermos coil heating system makes high-quality coffee ground.

Next, we have the purge function that allows users to adjust the water temperature, ensuring constant temperature for optimum coffee extraction. Another noticeable feature is the Italian-made 15-bar pump that creates the exact temperature required for premium flavor espresso. Wait, what about lattes? Well, this machine also offers a 360-degree swivel action steam wand for pleasant milk texturing. Instead, I’d say the steam wand is a bonus to give an extra foamy touch to your latte.

To be honest, I think it’s the best-looking coffee machine I’ve ever reviewed. The sophisticated brushed stainless-steel body is both attractive & practical. Its stainless steel construction won’t rust or warp with exposure to water and steam. In short, I’d say it is the machine that’ll last you many years without irking.

You’ll also get a handful of accessories with your purchase, so you can rest with the satisfaction of knowing you made the right choice. At the same time, the only flaw I discovered is that it’ll be wise to free up some space onto your countertop before your new coffeehouse arrives.

With this great coffee maker in your kitchen, there’s nothing left that’ll stop you from making the best latte.

5. Mr. Coffee Cafe Latte Maker – Best Entry Level Latte Machine

View On Amazon | $520.99

Specs: Brand: Mr. Coffee | Material: Stainless Steel | Color: Black | Weight: 3.3 Kilograms | Dimensions: 11.9*6.9*13.8 inches

Ok, I get it; not everyone wants to get a semi-automatic latte machine. This is usually because many people don’t have enough time for espresso making. For such, a super-automatic latte machine works great. With this, you can have your latte any moment whenever you want it.

The Mr. Coffee Cafe Latte Maker is a great super automatic latte machine for latte lovers. The machine’s 24-ounce capacity serves multiple drinks at a time. Simply add fresh grounded beans, water, and milk, and with the touch of a button, the Cafe Latte automatically brews, froths, and creates rich tasting coffee house quality lattes right at home at a fraction of the cost. Once brewing is done, and you hold the Carafe into your hands, you’ll be amazed that the brewer turns off automatically.

Cleaning this little Latte Maker is also a breeze. Just toss away the filter with used grounds, rinse off the frother and Carafe, and yep that’s pretty much it. However, my only nitpick about this cute little latte machine is that the Pitcher isn’t dishwasher safe, so you have to make sure you take extra care of it. Another noticeable downside is that this machine is capable of producing only 2 cups at a time. However, I believe it’d be a lot better if it had more capacity. 

Last but not least, there are certainly pros and cons to consider with the Mr. Coffee Cafe Latte Maker, but if you want a small and easy-to-use one-touch latte maker that makes fantastic lattes at a fraction of the cost in less than a minute, then this is the top option. As a bonus, with this machine, you can also make hot chocolate too.

6. DeLonghi 15 Bar Espresso & Latte Machine – Great Budget-Friendly Option

View On Amazon | $95.99

Specs: Brand: De’Longhi | Material: Stainless Steel | Color: Black | Weight: 6.67 Pounds | Dimensions: 12.2*19.3*15 inches

When finances are tight, a more affordable option has to suffice. That’s where DeLonghi EC 155 Semi-automatic Latte Machine comes in. This model by DeLonghi is highly functional and can easily outrank other models that are even twice its price.

Its single dial control makes it highly convenient to use. Both the water reservoir and the drip tray are removable as well as dishwasher safe. Its 15-bar professional pressure guarantees quality results every time. Thanks to its Advanced Cappuccino System, the unit heats up in seconds, allowing you to pull shots consecutively without any delay. As it is a semi-automatic espresso machine, therefore frothing has to be done manually, and the steam wand offers enough pressure for a nicely textured milk froth.

Adding to the item’s versatility, you’ll also get a three-in-one filter holder that has filters for one espresso shot, two shots, and one for an easy-serve espresso pod. While manufacturing, the portafilter is even pressurized to assure you’re always getting a rich layer of crema, even while using pre-ground beans.

If you’ve been looking for a convenient and affordable way to make a delicious cup of latte, then the DeLonghi EC155 Espresso & Latte Maker is certainly an easier approach to brewing the perfect cup.

7. Nespresso Lattissima Plus Espresso Machine – Best Pod Latte Machine

View On Amazon | $139.49

Specs: Brand: Nestle Nespresso | Material: Plastic | Color: Silver | Weight: 9 Pounds | Dimensions: 12.5*6.6*10.2 inches

When it comes to coffee, Nespresso requires no introduction. The Nespresso Lattissima Plus lets you Enjoy Starbucks-style lattes at just a fraction of the cost. Lattissima is a capsule-based espresso brewer that comes along with an automated milk frother.

First of all, it occupies very little counter space. Its 19 bar pressure pump extracts optimal flavors while the integrated carafe distributes milk in an adjustable manner. The best part is that you’ll get your brew ready at a time, not more than 20 seconds. Moreover, the adjustable drip tray also comes in handy as it helps accommodate smaller and larger-sized cups.

That’s not it; a Thermoblock heating system is also installed to speed up the heating process, which heats up the added water in nearly seconds. Furthermore, the water tank present on the back is easily removable, therefore, refillable. On the front, a small milk tank is present that is also removable hence can be used to store milk in the refrigerator.

One thing which I didn’t like is that the unit is only compatible with Nespresso original capsules only. Nespresso Capsules (Avaiable on Amazon) are expensive though, but I think it’s worth every penny instead of going to a coffee shop early in the morning. Also, the brewing process is noisy, which is indeed not a great experience. 

Debunking Latte Machine: Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all espresso machines have the ability to both brew espresso and froth milk as they don’t have a built-in milk frother or steaming wand. However, by using a milk frother, you can make steamed milk for your latte if your machine does not have a steaming wand.

You might wonder whether to buy an espresso machine or a latte machine and what the difference is between the two.

Espresso machines can pull shots of espresso, but can’t foam milk for lattes. The latte machines feature a built-in milk frother or steaming wand and can add foamed milk for specialty drinks, including lattes and cappuccinos. Latte machines are easy to operate, so you just press a button, and the machine makes the latte for you.

If you are a latte enthusiast, you will almost certainly prefer the creamy latte delivered by a latte maker.

Yes, you can buy a handheld milk frother to froth or steam the milk. Pour the warm milk into a mug or cup and insert the Powerlix Milk Frother (View On Amazon) into the milk, just below the surface. Turn it on and move it around in the milk until small foamy bubbles form and the texture of the milk becomes smooth like melted ice cream.

Alternatively, you can also use a French press to steam the milk. Add the warm milk to the French press. Place the lid on top with a plunger and pump vigorously, about 30 seconds until foamy bubbles appear.

If you are a latte lover, who doesn’t want to manually froth milk for lattes, a latte maker is an attractive way to get your fix, since it does that part for you.

Latte differs from cappuccino in having a way more steamed milk and a light layer of foam. A cappuccino boasts a much stronger espresso flavor than a latte as it has less milk and more foam than a latte.

The lifespan of the latte machines is approximately 6 to 10 years. However, your latte machine life expectancy also depends upon the brand, frequency of use, maintenance, and a few other factors.

Final Notes

There you have it! The best latte machines in 2022 list and the buyer’s guide to help you choose the best one for your needs. If you just want to make lattes and don’t want to drink shots of espresso, a latte machine is a more affordable option for you.

Keurig K-Cafe Single-Serve earns the Cup Of Caffein’s best buy designation thanks to its custom brewing features and the dishwasher-safe frother which is able to make drip coffee, lattes, cappuccinos, and iced coffees, too. If you are looking for a maker that can make a damn quick latte or cappuccino with very little hassle or cleanup, the K-Café is your way to go.

Taimoor S.

Taimoor followed his passion to become a coffee connoisseur and now travels the world to visit the most popular coffee shops. His cupboard is also stocked with a collection of brewing gadgets. He loves to drink Death Wish Coffee’s dark roast and highly caffeinated coffee grounds when he needs a boost of energy.