There’s something undeniably luxurious about a perfectly frothed cup of milk, whether it’s atop your morning cappuccino or enhancing your cozy evening hot chocolate.
Milk frothing is an art that has taken the world of coffee and beverage crafting by storm, transforming ordinary drinks into creamy, velvety concoctions that tickle the taste buds and warm the soul.
The foundation of any successful milk-frothing adventure is the right milk frother.
To help you on your quest for the perfect frothed milk, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 Best Milk Frothers.
These frothers have been handpicked based on their performance, versatility, and overall value, ensuring that you’ll have the perfect froth every time you use them.
10 Best Milk Frothers: At A Glance
- Instant Pot 4-in-1 Milk Frother: Best Overall
- CHINYA Automatic Milk Frother: Best Value For Money
- Breville BMF600XL Milk Cafe Milk Frother: Best Premium Option
- ElitaPro Ultra High-Speed Handheld Milk Frother: Best Handheld Milk Frother
- Nespresso Aeroccino3 Milk Frother: Fastest Milk Frother
- Capresso Froth MAX Automatic Milk Frother: Best For Households
- Rösle Stainless Steel Dual Speed Frother: Best For Ease Of Use
- Bodum Bistro Electric Milk Frother: Best Countertop Milk Frother
- Bodum Latteo Manual Milk Frother: Best Manual Milk Frother
- HIC Fino Stainless Steel Milk Frother: Best Design
1. Instant Pot 4-in-1 Milk Frother: Best Overall
If you’re looking for a versatile milk frother that can handle various foam types and steam milk, the Instant Milk Frother is a great choice.
This nifty device from Instant Pot does it all, from creating hot and cold foam to warming milk and heating up drinks in a matter of seconds.
With the Instant Pot 4-in-1 Milk Frother, you get four handy programs to choose from:
- Cold Foam: Perfect for creating silky microfoam, ideal for iced cappuccinos or cold brew toppers.
- Light Warm Foam: This setting produces warm foam, great for café au lait or lattes.
- Thick Warm Foam: If you love a thick foam crown on your cappuccino, this setting has you covered.
- Warming without Foaming: Need just warm, steamed milk for hot chocolate or other beverages? This setting has you covered, although you might need to give it an extra zap in the microwave for the perfect hot chocolate.
One of the standout features of this frother is its convenient spout, which makes pouring a breeze and even allows you to try your hand at creating impressive latte art for your guests.
Plus, it’s a compact and lightweight device that won’t hog your countertop space.
Safety-wise, you’re in good hands with the Instant Milk Frother.
It operates quietly and includes built-in safety features like Overheat Protection™ and an auto-off function, providing peace of mind during use.
Cleaning is a breeze too – the lid and whisk are dishwasher-safe, and the non-stick interior wipes clean effortlessly.
Operating this frother is really simple thanks to its simple 2-button control interface.
While the oblong shape of the inner whisk might take a bit of getting used to, it becomes easier with practice.
And don’t worry about burns – the cool-touch exterior and side handle ensures comfortable and safe handling even after use.
In summary, the Instant Milk Frother is a versatile, user-friendly, and compact device that brings the joy of frothy and steamed milk drinks right into your kitchen.
Pros
- Versatile, offering multiple foam and milk-warming options.
- Compact and lightweight, saving countertop space.
- Convenient spout for easy pouring and latte art.
- Quiet operation with built-in safety features.
- Dishwasher-safe lid and whisk for easy cleaning.
- Simple 2-button control interface.
- Cool-touch exterior and side handle for safe handling.
Cons
- The inner whisk’s oblong shape may require some practice.
- The “warming without foaming” setting may not heat beverages hot enough for some preferences without additional heating.
2. CHINYA Automatic Milk Frother: Best Value For Money
The CHINYA Automatic Milk Frother is your ticket to velvety milk foam in just 120 seconds!
This electric frother is here to level up your coffee game, crafting super soft and creamy milk foam perfect for your Latte, Cappuccino, Macchiato, and more.
Plus, it can heat milk to a toasty 65±5℃ (140℉~158℉), preserving those natural milk nutrients for the ultimate coffee experience.
With the CHINYA frother, you can froth up to 150 ml of milk and heat 300 ml of milk, making it a versatile choice for various coffee creations.
You can also enjoy cold milk foam for your iced beverages.
It’s a multi-functional electric milk steamer and warmer.
Worried about leaving it on by mistake? Don’t be! The CHINYA frother comes with an auto-shutoff feature for your peace of mind.
The result? Creamy and rich milk foam that perfectly complements your coffee without overwhelming those initial sips.
For best results, go for whole milk or organic milk to achieve that perfect foam.
But here’s the exciting part: despite its wallet-friendly price point, the CHINYA milk frother doesn’t compromise on quality.
It’s a fantastic value-for-money option that checks all the boxes according to the experts.
So, if you’re in search of an affordable yet top-notch milk frother, this might be the perfect option for you.
Pros
- Quick milk foam in just 120 seconds.
- Versatile, froths and heats milk for various coffee drinks.
- Offers hot and cold functionality.
- Budget-friendly without sacrificing quality.
- Auto-shutoff for safety.
- Recommended for whole or organic milk.
Cons
- Customer complaints about the frother not working after a few months.
- May require experimenting to find the milk type that suits your taste.
3. Breville BMF600XL Milk Cafe Milk Frother: Best Premium Option
The Breville Milk Cafe Milk Frother is a top-tier choice for milk frothing enthusiasts seeking precision and versatility.
This high-end frother not only delivers excellent temperature control but also offers a range of foam consistency options to suit your coffee preferences.
With a sizable 3-cup capacity, this frother is ideal for whipping up larger drinks or serving multiple beverages in one go.
It boasts a robust build and consistent results that you can rely on for every frothing session.
While the directions are straightforward, it’s crucial to follow them diligently for optimal performance.
This frother comes equipped with two frothing discs.
Depending on your desired result, choose between the discs – one is perfect for creating silky milk for lattes, while the other excels at producing frothier milk for cappuccinos.
The Milk Cafe employs a combination of induction heating and spinning to create fine bubbles.
Select the appropriate frothing disc to achieve either a creamy texture or an extra frothy finish.
Beyond coffee, you can easily whip up hot chocolate for a group by adding chocolate powder to the warming milk.
Enjoy precise control with variable temperature settings, including a “cold stir” option.
Operating the Breville Milk Cafe Frother is a breeze, and it’s dishwasher-safe for effortless cleanup.
While it’s true that the Breville Milk Cafe Frother comes with a higher price tag, the investment is well worth it if you’re on the hunt for a top-quality milk frother that offers exceptional features and performance.
Pros
- Excellent temperature control.
- Versatile foam consistency options.
- Large 3-cup capacity.
- Well-built and reliable.
- Two frothing discs for customized results.
- Induction heating and spinning for fine bubbles.
- Suitable for hot chocolate preparation.
- Dishwasher safe.
- High-quality performance.
Cons:
- Higher price point.
- While it’s easy to clean, it requires cleaning after each use.
4. ElitaPro Ultra High-Speed Handheld Milk Frother: Best Handheld Milk Frother
The ElitaPro Ultra High-Speed Handheld Milk Frother is a kitchen companion that can transform your milk into a creamy froth in a mere 15 seconds, thanks to its impressive 19,000 RPM high-speed rotation.
This milk frother is a clear winner in the handheld frother category for several good reasons.
It arrives with a double whisk and a clever detachable egg beater, making it incredibly versatile for various kitchen tasks.
The dual-whisk feature truly makes a difference.
Using whole milk, it crafts a delightful glossy foam, while with oat milk, it conjures up a silky and structured froth.
Beyond coffee, it shines in hot chocolate mixing, churning out a generous 1.5 inches of frothy goodness.
Constructed with rust-resistant stainless steel whisks and powered by a quiet yet potent motor, this frother ensures your kitchen remains a serene space.
You can choose from an array of appealing colors, including black, peach, and dark teal.
It’s delightfully lightweight and offers a comfortable grip, although there’s a caveat with its design.
Handle it with care because its lightweight nature, combined with its powerful performance, means the whisk might pop off if not secured properly.
Now, when it comes to cleanup, it’s a breeze.
Just give it a spin in soapy water, rinse it, and spin it again to dry.
And for added convenience, it comes with a stand for quick preparation and easy storage.
Pros
- Rapid milk frothing in just 15 seconds.
- Versatile with a double whisk and detachable egg beater.
- Produces glossy or structured foam, ideal for various milk types.
- Quiet operation with rust-resistant stainless steel whisks.
- Available in appealing colors.
- Lightweight and easy to grip.
- Simple cleaning process.
- Comes with a stand for quick prep and storage.
Cons
- The lightweight design may cause the whisk to pop off if not secured properly.
- Some reviewers have reported that the frother malfunctioned after a few uses.
5. Nespresso Aeroccino3 Milk Frother: Fastest Milk Frother
The Nespresso Aeroccino3 Milk Frother is another go-to solution for effortlessly creating light and creamy milk froth, whether you prefer it hot or cold.
This sleek device is designed with a combination of stainless steel and black plastic, sporting a slimline base that seamlessly fits into any kitchen space.
Operating the Aeroccino3 is a breeze.
With a simple one-touch operation, you’re just a button press away from enjoying your desired milk froth.
A quick single press yields hot milk and froth, while a two-second press gives you cold milk froth.
It’s even color-coded, with a red or blue indicator, so you always know which type you’re making.
And the best part? It automatically shuts off when your froth is ready, so you can multitask without worry.
The froth it creates leans towards the frothy side rather than creamy, with dairy milk outperforming almond milk in the frothing department.
Keep in mind that it can only make four ounces of foam at a time, but it can heat up to eight ounces of milk, catering to different preferences.
Compact, quiet, and swift, the Aeroccino3 is a breeze to clean, and it offers a few customizable milk froth preparations to cater to your specific taste.
Pros
- Ultra-simple one-touch operation.
- Quick and automatic milk heating.
- Compact and space-saving design.
- Automatic shutoff for convenience.
- Customizable milk froth options.
- Easy to clean.
- Suitable for hot and cold milk froth.
Cons
6. Capresso Froth MAX Automatic Milk Frother: Best For Households
The Capresso Froth MAX Automatic Milk Frother allows you to professional-quality frothed milk at the press of a button.
This nifty kitchen appliance offers three temperature settings – hot, warm, and cold – and can froth up to 8 ounces of milk or heat up to 12 ounces of milk sans froth.
The setup is pretty straightforward. A 12 oz. plastic milk pitcher sits snugly atop the electric base, allowing you to keep a close eye on the frothing or heating process.
While frothing, it’s important to note that you can use only up to eight ounces of liquid since milk tends to expand during frothing.
However, when heating without froth, you can go up to 12 ounces.
The foaming process may take a few minutes to reach the hot stage, but the delightful result is well worth the wait.
How does it work its magic? The Capresso Froth MAX employs a patented frothing disk that gently and swiftly whips air into the milk while simultaneously heating it to your desired temperature.
Additionally, it includes a special heating disk for warming milk, perfect for crafting lattes and hot chocolate.
The versatility extends to non-dairy options like soy milk and almond milk, making it a great choice for various dietary preferences.
Cleanup is a breeze, and the frothing disks conveniently attach magnetically beneath the base when not in use.
The plastic pitcher is dishwasher-safe, adding to the ease of maintenance.
Pros
- Three temperature settings: hot, warm, and cold.
- Can froth up to 8 ounces of milk and heat 12 ounces without froth.
- Patented frothing disk for swift, gentle frothing.
- Special heating disk for lattes and hot chocolate.
- Compatible with non-dairy options like soy and almond milk.
- Easy to clean with magnetic storage for frothing disks.
- Dishwasher-safe plastic pitcher.
Cons:
- Complaints of the frother not working after a few months.
- Some customers have reported durability issues.
7. Rösle Stainless Steel Dual Speed Frother: Best For Ease Of Use
When it comes to crafting specialty coffee drinks at home, getting that perfect balance of espresso and creamy milk can be a bit of a learning curve, especially for beginners.
But fear not, because the Rösle Stainless Steel Dual Speed Frother is here to simplify one crucial step in your coffee-making journey.
This sleek and sturdy frother is designed to elevate your coffee game effortlessly.
It excels at both frothing and mixing tasks, whether you’re whipping up milk for your favorite coffee drinks, blending milkshakes, or creating vinaigrette dressings.
What sets it apart is its dual-speed control.
There’s a fast speed for expertly frothing milk and milkshakes, and a slower pace perfect for crafting vinaigrette dressings with finesse.
During our testing, it proved its versatility by performing admirably with both whole milk and oat milk. It even managed to create light and creamy cold foam.
While there were slightly larger bubbles in the whole milk, they still delivered excellent results for lattes or cappuccinos.
The secret lies in the flexible spiral whisk, ensuring optimal power transmission from the motor.
Plus, the drive shaft is constructed from special hardened steel for durability.
Crafted from 18/10 stainless steel, this frother exudes quality and comes complete with a convenient hanging ring for easy storage.
What’s more, it strikes a balance between being lightweight yet sturdy, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a clutter-free countertop.
It runs on two AAA batteries, which are thoughtfully included.
Cleanup is a breeze – just give the whisk a spin in soapy water, and it’s good to go.
While the Rösle frother leans towards the slightly pricier end for a handheld model, it’s still a modest investment, especially considering its performance and durability.
Just remember to keep some extra AAA batteries on hand, as they’ll need replacing from time to time.
Pros
- Dual-speed control for frothing and mixing versatility.
- Performs well with both whole milk and oat milk.
- Creates light and creamy cold foam.
- Durable construction with special hardened steel drive shaft.
- 18/10 stainless steel for quality and easy storage with hanging ring.
- Lightweight and sturdy, suitable for beginners.
- Simple cleanup with a quick spin in soapy water.
Cons
- Slightly pricier than some handheld models.
- Requires occasional replacement of AAA batteries.
8. Bodum Bistro Electric Milk Frother: Best Countertop Milk Frother
The Bodum Bistro Electric Milk Frother is a compact marvel that brings a futuristic touch to your countertop.
Measuring a mere 4 inches in diameter, its minimalist design centers around a single power button, making it a breeze to operate.
But don’t let its simplicity fool you; this frother is built to withstand the daily demands of a coffee enthusiast who enjoys multiple beverages throughout the day, making it our top pick for countertop frothers.
What truly sets it apart is its stellar performance, consistently impressing our testers in every trial.
It expertly crafts tight, stable foam that maintains its integrity even after pouring.
Whether you’re in the mood for a silky, tight-bubbled pourable cold foam or a milkshake-like hot chocolate, this frother delivers exceptional results, no matter the task.
Using it is a cinch – just hit the power button, and you’re good to go.
The milk heats up while it froths, ensuring a seamless pour over your espresso for delectable lattes and cappuccinos.
The frother boasts a maximum capacity of 13.5 ounces, though, for optimal results, we recommend sticking to 8 ounces, with clear markings inside to guide you.
Cleaning up is as easy as it gets.
Simply pop off the top, toss it in the dishwasher, and give the nonstick interior a quick wipe (even the whisk is a breeze to detach).
One minor drawback is its noise level, as it’s a tad louder than some other electric frothers we tested.
However, a few seconds of noise is a small price to pay for the consistently high-quality foam you’ll enjoy each time.
Pros
- Futuristic and compact countertop design.
- Sturdy construction for daily use.
- Produces tight and stable foam for various beverages.
- User-friendly single-button operation.
- Efficiently heats milk while frothing.
- Easy to clean, with dishwasher-safe parts.
- Consistently high-quality foam results.
Cons
- Slightly louder compared to some other electric frothers.
- Offers limited versatility.
9. Bodum Latteo Manual Milk Frother: Best Manual Milk Frother
The Bodum Latteo Manual Milk Frother is another kitchen companion for crafting delectable, airy foam fit for cappuccinos, lattes, mochas, and hot chocolate.
This manual frother works its magic, delivering rich, thick foam in under 30 seconds.
Just move the plunger frother up and down roughly 60-90 times or until you notice the milk thickening.
It’s a hassle-free way to get the perfect milk foam for your favorite coffee drinks.
What sets it apart is the choice of materials.
The carafe is crafted from high-quality borosilicate glass, known for its heat-resistant properties.
It can handle boiling liquids without a worry of cracking.
This feature opens up the possibility of heating milk in the microwave, making it a more convenient option compared to other manual frothers.
You’ll also appreciate the attention to safety and quality.
The lid and filter are constructed from BPA-free plastic, while the plunger boasts sturdy stainless steel.
While the 0.25-liter capacity could be better, it should be more than good enough for frothing needs of most people.
Using and maintaining the Bodum Latteo is a breeze.
It’s user-friendly, easy to clean, and even dishwasher safe.
Best of all, it offers an inexpensive yet effective way to bring cafe-style coffee creations to your home kitchen.
Pros
- Creates luscious foam for various coffee beverages.
- Produces rich, thick foam in under 30 seconds.
- Heat-resistant borosilicate glass carafe.
- Microwave-safe for convenient milk heating.
- BPA-free plastic lid and filter.
- Sturdy stainless steel plunger.
- Easy to use, clean, and dishwasher safe.
Cons:
- Manual operation requires more effort compared to electric frothers.
- Too tall for most microwaves.
- The carafe can crack quickly.
- The plunger is prone to breaking.
10. HIC Fino Stainless Steel Milk Frother: Best Design
This manual frother that adds a touch of barista-like expertise to your coffee game.
Crafted from 18/8 stainless steel and nylon, this handy device boasts a 14-ounce capacity and can whip up frothy, rich foam in 60 seconds or less – all without the need for electricity or batteries.
We were impressed with the outcome of the results, particularly when using regular milk.
You can expect super-stable foam adorned with tightly-knit bubbles and a delightful high gloss.
It’s a perfect companion for cold foam and frothing, delivering results that rival your favorite coffee shop creations.
However, it’s worth noting that when it comes to hot chocolate, it has a minor drawback – you can’t see the mixture once it’s thoroughly combined, and the aerator may not fully incorporate the cocoa mix.
The HIC Fino Milk Frother features a built-in plunger with a double-mesh aerator, akin to a French Press, topped with an easy-grip handle for comfortable operation.
It’s not only easy to use but also durable and versatile.
And when it’s time to clean up, no worries – it’s top-rack dishwasher safe for your convenience.
In terms of cost, it’s a budget-friendly alternative to battery-powered frothers and pricey espresso machines.
However, keep in mind that it’s a manual frother, similar to the Bodum Latteo, which means you’ll need to put in some effort to achieve that perfect foam.
Additionally, the stainless steel components can make it a tad noisy, though not excessively so.
Another minor consideration before purchasing is that you can’t observe the milk while it’s frothing, so you might need to pause and check to ensure the foam meets your preference.
Pros
- Manual frother with a barista-like prowess.
- Creates super-stable foam with tight bubbles.
- Versatile for hot or cold beverage toppings.
- Durable 18/8 stainless steel and nylon construction.
- Easy to use and top-rack dishwasher safe.
- Budget-friendly alternative to electric frothers.
Cons
- Manual operation requires effort for perfect foam.
- Stainless steel parts can make it somewhat noisy.
- Milk visibility while frothing is limited.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Milk Frother
When shopping for a milk frother, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you select the right one to meet your specific needs.
Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast, a hot chocolate lover, or simply enjoy a frothy beverage, these considerations will help you make an informed decision.
Frothing Capacity
Begin by determining the quantity of frothed milk you’ll need on a regular basis.
Milk frothers come in various sizes, with capacities ranging from a few ounces to several cups.
If you typically prepare single servings, a smaller frother may suffice.
However, if you’re serving multiple people or frequently hosting guests, opt for a larger capacity frother to save time and effort.
Frothing Speed and Efficiency
The speed at which a milk frother can whip up foam can vary significantly between models.
Some frothers are designed for quick frothing in under a minute, while others may take a bit longer.
Consider your daily routine and how much time you’re willing to allocate to frothing milk.
If convenience is a top priority, look for models that offer speedy frothing without compromising on quality.
Frothing Type: Manual vs. Electric
Milk frothers come in two primary types: manual and electric.
- Manual Frothers: These are typically handheld devices that require you to manually froth the milk by moving a plunger or handle up and down. They are portable, affordable, and great for occasional use. Manual frothers are ideal for those who don’t mind a bit of hands-on effort.
- Electric Frothers: Electric frothers are powered by electricity or batteries, offering hands-free operation and consistency. They come in various designs, including countertop and handheld models. Electric frothers are perfect for daily use and are more suited for beginners.
Frothing Quality
The quality of the foam produced is a crucial consideration.
Look for frothers that can create fine, microfoam with small, velvety bubbles.
The texture of the foam is essential for achieving that perfect latte or cappuccino.
Read user reviews and product descriptions to ensure that the frother consistently delivers top-notch results.
Material and Durability
Consider the materials used in the construction of the frother.
Stainless steel and high-quality plastic are common choices.
Stainless steel is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion, while BPA-free plastics are safe for food contact.
Make sure the frother is well-constructed and built to withstand regular use.
Ease of Cleaning
The ease of cleaning your milk frother is another important factor.
Look for frothers with removable parts that are dishwasher-safe for quick and convenient cleanup.
Models with non-stick interiors are also easier to clean by hand.
Heat Settings and Versatility
Some milk frothers come with additional features, such as adjustable temperature settings.
These frothers can not only froth milk but also heat it to your desired temperature.
This versatility is perfect for making hot chocolate, matcha lattes, or chai teas.
Consider whether you need these extra functions for your favorite beverages.
Noise Level
The noise level of an electric milk frother can vary.
If you’re sensitive to noise or live in a shared space, you might want to opt for a quieter model.
Check user reviews or product descriptions for information on noise levels.
Price and Budget
Lastly, consider your budget when choosing a milk frother.
Frothers come in a wide price range, from affordable manual options to high-end electric models.
Decide on a budget that aligns with your needs and preferences, keeping in mind that a good milk frother can be a long-term investment in your coffee or beverage-making routine.
The Verdict: Which Milk Frother Is Best?
After rigorous testing and careful consideration, the Instant Pot 4-in-1 Milk Frother emerges as the clear winner, earning the title of the Best Overall Milk Frother.
Its standout feature is its remarkable versatility, offering four distinct programs, catering to various coffee preferences, from silky microfoam for iced cappuccinos to rich foam for classic cappuccinos.
This frother excels in producing consistently high-quality frothed milk, regardless of the milk type used.
It boasts user-friendly features, including a convenient spout for easy pouring and latte art.
Safety features like Overheat Protection™ and an auto-off function provide peace of mind, and it’s easy to clean with dishwasher-safe components.
In summary, the Instant Pot 4-in-1 Milk Frother combines versatility, performance, and thoughtful design, making it the top choice for achieving cafe-quality frothed milk at home.
FAQ’s
Is it worth getting a milk frother?
Milk frothers can be a valuable addition to your kitchen, especially if you savor coffee or other beverages that rely on milk foam.
They empower you to craft a diverse range of drinks like cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos.
The decision of whether to invest in a milk frother hinges on your individual preferences and the frequency of your consumption of milk-based beverages requiring foam.
If you’re a daily coffee enthusiast, then acquiring a milk frother is undoubtedly a worthwhile choice!
Can you froth cold milk?
Yes, you can froth cold milk.
Cold foam is frothed milk (or dairy-free alternative) that has been infused with air through the frothing process, but no heat is used so it ends up being simply cold-frothed milk.
What do baristas use to froth milk?
Baristas typically rely on steam wands attached to espresso machines for frothing milk.
These steam wands utilize pressurized steam to produce microfoam within the milk, a crucial component for crafting barista-quality beverages and intricate latte art.
Does warm or cold milk froth better?
Cold milk generally froths more effectively than warm milk.
When milk is heated excessively, its proteins unwind and struggle to create the necessary structure for bubble formation.
Cold milk, on the other hand, froths with greater ease, offering better foam retention, stability, and a lighter, airier texture.
It’s important to note that the type of milk used also plays a role in the frothing process.
Whole milk produces froth with more body, while low-fat milk is easier to froth.
For cold-frothed milk, skimmed or non-fat milk is preferred due to its higher protein content.
What’s the difference between a milk frother and a milk steamer?
Milk frothing and steaming are distinct techniques used to alter the texture of milk.
Both methods introduce air bubbles into the milk, but they yield different outcomes.
Frothed milk has a dry, foam-like consistency and a light mouthfeel, while steamed milk is luxuriously creamy and always hot.
Steamed milk produces finer, more delicate foam known as microform.
Foam can be generated through either milk frothing or steaming, with frothed milk resulting in thicker foam and steamed milk creating a finer, more delicate froth.
Experienced baristas are well-versed in the nuances of crafting steamed milk compared to frothed milk.
