Milk frothers are invaluable to coffee enthusiasts who enjoy a little steamed milk with their coffees, lattes, and other specialty drinks. The commercial frothers used by coffee shops and restaurants may cost a small fortune, but the average person doesn’t need something that expensive. Many milk frothers are designed explicitly for small-scale home use and have a much more affordable price tag. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the best milk frother and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Quick Comparison: Top 12 Best Milk Frothers
1. PowerLix Milk Frother Handheld Battery Operated Electric Foam Maker
The PowerLix Milk Frother is one of the leading models on the market right now, thanks in part to its portability and its sleek, stylish design. It's as much a design piece for the kitchen as it is a functional tool. Plus, it is made from high-quality stainless steel that will give you years of durable use. The device includes a quiet motor that offers all the functionality you need without the noise.
This mixer saves you the hassle of cords with battery operation and is designed to fit into most hands ergonomically, making it ideal even for those who have dexterity or grip issues. The beautiful style of the machine matches its impressive functionality, and the soft-touch handle gives it that extra touch of luxury. Plus, it can be used with any beverage to blend and mix, not just to froth milk.Pros
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2. Bonsenkitchen Electric Milk Frother
The Bonsenkitchen Electric Milk Frother is designed to blend into any modern kitchen space and operates on battery power so that you can use it in all areas of the kitchen. Don’t let the small size of this frother deceive you; there’s a lot of functionality packed into this small device. It can be used to make foams and froths, but it can also be used for eggs, cocktails, milkshakes and other drinks and treats. Plus, it offers an easy-to-clean stainless-steel surface and a sturdy plastic handle.
It can make hot milk, but it needs to be at a temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit or below to create the perfect froth. The immersion-style whisk guarantees better mixing in less time, and it's a great tool to take on the go so that you can create delicious drinks anywhere.Pros
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3. Zulay Original Milk Frother Handheld Foam Maker for Lattes
This milk frother from Zulay comes with a lifetime guarantee from the manufacturer against any construction defects or breakage. It also offers easy cleanup with a sleek, simple design that doesn't include a lot of moving parts. The frother is great for use with coffee, lattes, steamed milk, and even milkshakes, cocktails and other beverages and treats. It's also great for creating homemade whipped cream.
This frother requires two AA batteries for operation, making it easy to take on the go when you want a portable frothing option. It will also deliver all of the foaming power you could ask for in a conveniently compact size. The package includes a stand for storage that also looks great on display, giving you another great tool to show off in your kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to clean with hot water and will offer years of continued use.Pros
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4. Secura Automatic Electric Milk Frother and Warmer
The Secura Automatic Electric Milk Frother and Warmer does two things at once. It steams the milk to the perfect temperature, while also frothing the milk to create that creamy foam that everyone loves. The stainless-steel kettle is vacuum-insulated and includes a detachable base for easy cleaning. You'll also enjoy the convenient maximum level indicators and the cleaning brush that is included for easy cleaning.
This frother makes a variety of heated milks and froths and can even be used to mix cold drinks of other varieties. Because of its two-in-one style, it’s preferred to many others on the market today. The automatic feature saves a lot of work on the part of the user, and the non-stick interior is easy to clean. This portable kettle plugs into the wall to operate, but it’s small enough that it could even sit on a desk or in an office.Pros
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5. Elementi Milk Frother with Stainless Steel Whisk & Stand
The Elementi Milk Frother includes a stainless-steel whisk that is durable and designed to hold up to long-term use, offering creamy, frothy milk and beverages in just a matter of seconds with its powerful motor. It is also kind to your ears, being impressively quiet for its power level. The compact design fits comfortably in hands of all sizes.
The high-speed, high-powered motor can make the best drinks in no time at all, taking just under a minute to do its thing. Plus, the tool is easy to clean with soap and water and can be back in its stand in just a matter of minutes. There are multiple colors to choose from, and the frother also offers a two-year warranty on all parts and potential defects. This frother is great for lattes, cappuccinos, teas and more.Pros
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6. Aerolatte 005 Milk Foamer
The Aerolatte 005 Milk Foamer features the choice of a satin or chrome finish, and the option to upgrade to a model that includes a stand for added storage options. The small size of this foamer makes it a popular choice among those who have dexterity and grip issues, and the package comes with batteries included.
This whisk can be submerged in a variety of drinks to create a frothy foam or just offer better mixing capability. The company's goal has always been to help consumers enjoy professional-quality drinks, and they have a passion for creating great frothy drinks that deliver on taste every time. Plus, the collection comes in multiple colors, and each one will deliver years of durable performance and quality frothing.Pros
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7. Miroco Milk Frother
The Miroco Milk Frother is a carafe-style steamer that also heats milk in addition to foaming and frothing. It has the option to hold up to 240ml for heating or 115ml for frothing. Single push-button operation ensures effortless frothing, taking under two minutes to achieve beautiful froths and foams that are also warm enough for drinking.
This frother features temperature controls and an auto-shutoff feature that lets you know when the milk is ready. It also works quietly and can provide a long lifespan, thanks to its durable construction and design. It makes great hot and cold drinks, as well, with the option to froth, heat, or both. There are max and minimum level guides for easy use, and the package includes replacement whisks so that you are never without the tools you need.Pros
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8. Breville BMF600XL Milk Cafe Milk Frother
The Breville BMF600XL Milk Café Milk Frother is a unique heating and frothing device that is great for lattes, cappuccinos, iced drinks and even hot chocolate. The frother works through induction heating, and the carafe includes a frothing disc that will help create the perfect foams and froths for your coffee. It can be cleaned in the dishwasher or handwashed with soap and water, as well.
This milk frother features a three-cup capacity, so you can easily make as much steamed or foamed milk as you want at one time. It also has an auto-off feature that will shut the induction plate off once the desired temperature is reached. Not only does this ensure drinks are the perfect temp for enjoying, but it guarantees that the milk won't scald or scorch. It includes separate discs for lattes and cappuccinos, as well as a cold stir setting for stirring cold drinks.Pros
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9. Ikea Milk Frother 100.763.20
The Ikea Milk Frother is a basic tool that is anything but. This simple frother features a stainless-steel whisk and single-button operation so that you can mix froths in a matter of seconds. You don't have to dig out the full coffee bar or deal with a major kitchen appliance, and this device is small enough that it can be stored in a drawer along with your other utensils. Plus, it's easy to clean and has a simple design that is easy to use.
This milk frother is made from durable materials, ensuring that it will last for many years to come. Those who want more foam or froth can simply hold the button down longer to produce more. While the device doesn’t include batteries, it only takes two AA units, which most people have on hand. For anyone on a budget with basic frothing needs, this model from IKEA is definitely one to consider.Pros
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10. Ninja Coffee Bar Easy Milk Frother with Press Froth Technology
The Ninja Coffee Bar Easy Milk Frother holds just under eight ounces of milk, cream or other liquid, with a hand pump used to foam and froth to the perfect creamy texture, meaning you can create custom foams for all of your coffee drinks. Plus, the glass carafe is microwave safe, so you can heat the milk in the same container. It can be used for other hot and cold liquids, as well.
This milk frother uses press froth technology rather than immersion blending, offering a more controlled foam that won’t be over-aerated or risk falling flat. Plus, the size of the container is perfect for making one to several drinks, which makes it ideal for entertaining. This manual frother can be a great starter choice or something for those who prefer a more basic option.Pros
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11. HIC Milk Creamer Frother Cappuccino Coffee Foam Pitcher with Handle and Lid
This manual frother from HIC offers a unique design that utilizes foam press technology to create creamy foams for all of your hot and cold drinks in under a minute. The handle is easy to grip, and a few pumps and turns will allow you to create the perfect amount of foam, no matter what kind of drinks you have in mind.
This frother can be used to foam whole, skim, and other varieties of milk, along with non-dairy milk products. It is more economical than battery-operated devices and requires no cord, which means you can have great foams and froths anywhere that you want. Plus, it’s easy to put in the dishwasher to clean, or can be washed with soap and water.Pros
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12. FoodVille MF02 Rechargeable Milk Frother Handheld Foam Maker with Stainless Whisk
The FoodVille Rechargeable Milk Frother is a great alternative to a battery-powered option when you want a frother that is portable and doesn't need to be plugged in all the time. It has a whisper-quiet motor that is still powerful enough to deliver plenty of blending and foaming performance on a single charge. Plus, when it's not in use, it can be stashed in a drawer or even just flipped upside down on the counter until you need it again.
This milk frother and mixer includes everything that you need to get started in the package, including a USB charging cable. It comes with a three-year warranty and features a durable design that should stand up to the toughest kitchen uses. It even offers an ergonomic, compact design that is easy for anyone to hold to mix their favorite coffee drinks.Pros
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How to Choose the Milk Frother to Make Great Drinks at Home
As you can see from the list above, there are a diverse range of milk frothers to explore on the market today. There is something in almost every price range, including a selection of affordable options for home use. Buying your milk frother is all about determining the type of device or appliance that you prefer, and finding one that delivers quality, consistent results for your coffee drinks.
All of the frothers listed above can provide great foams and froths, and many of them can be used for other mixing and blending needs, giving you a multipurpose kitchen tool and the chance to play barista at the same time. Read on to learn more about frothers and how to choose the best model for your coffee treats.
What Does a Frother Do?
Everyone understands the idea of putting steamed milk into a latte or other drink, but they don't know what it is that the frother does. This is the device that aerates the milk or cream, giving it the bubbles that create the foam on top of drinks and the delicious creamy steamed milk that is mixed into various coffee drinks. The frother creates volume and texture, giving your favorite coffee drinks that perfect creamy texture.
The amount of foam and its texture will depend on how long you froth the milk or mix it, but you want to be careful not to over-mix, as you could end up letting all of the air out and turning your froth into a runny mess. The foam or froth that is added to coffee drinks will taper the sharp flavor of the actual coffee, which some people don't enjoy. Plus, it just adds a better flavor, and if you're into foam art, it can be a fun hobby to create drinks that look as good as they taste.
Handheld vs. Carafe Frothers
One of the biggest decisions for those looking to invest in a milk frother is to determine whether they want a handheld immersion-style frother or if they prefer a carafe that they can use to steam and/or froth milk at the same time. Each has its pros and cons to consider. The carafe style might better serve those who are exclusively interested in a frother or warmer. Some more experienced coffee drink makers may also enjoy the added control of manual foaming devices, giving them the ability to create the exact perfect amount and type of foam for every drink.
Handheld frothers are typically designed like smaller immersion blenders, featuring a stainless-steel whisk that blends the milk or cream to create the perfect foam. There are a variety of whisk styles, including some that have dual-layer options that will allow for better or faster frothing abilities. Some of the handheld mixers will also come with multiple whisk heads so that you can use them for a variety of other blending needs, as well.
The handheld options typically come either in a rechargeable style or with disposable batteries required for operation. There are still some that have cords, but usually these small frothers only need a little battery power to run. The portability is part of the convenience factor, so that's a big selling point for a lot of people. While many of the carafes need to be plugged in, the handheld milk frothers typically have alternative power so that you can use them anywhere and even take them when you travel or to the office.
Ultimately, the decision will depend on which elements matter most to you. The handheld models are great for portability, but the carafes have their perks to consider, as well. Now that you know a little more, it should be easier for you to choose. If nothing else, you can try both styles and decide for yourself which works best.
Warming and Frothing in One?
As many frothers offer the option of heating and frothing in the same tool, it’s important to understand the benefits here. Not only does it cut a step out of the process, but when you warm the frother with the milk, you’ll often get more consistent results in your foams and froths. This is often seen in the carafe-style frothers that hold a small amount of milk and allow you to steam while you froth. You may have seen these in coffee houses in larger commercial incarnations, but they are also available in home-use styles.
Manual vs. Electric Milk Frothers
Manual milk frothers, also referred to as hand pump frothers, are typically sold with an included cup or carafe. They consist of a plunger attached to a set of mesh screens, pushed up and down in the cup through the milk or cream to create the foam. The motion of the screens aerates the liquid in a very precise manner and can generate great foams and froths in 30 to 60 seconds with most of the models that are on the market.
Hand pump frothers are ideal for those who are only making a drink or two here or there. They can be cumbersome for people who use them frequently. Of course, they can also be an ideal choice for those who are more experienced or looking to get creative with their frothing. These manual frothers can allow you to create the perfect level of foam or froth right down to the last pump, giving you total control that you won’t get from an electric frother.
Electric milk frothers, on the other hand, take all of the work out of the process. They are typically designed either in handheld devices or as a carafe or cup that is somewhat reminiscent of a food processor. These are great for making a lot of drinks at once, because they are quick and efficient, but they are also going to be slightly more expensive than manual models. Some of the electric models that include a cup or carafe will also offer a heating function, as mentioned above, giving you another feature to consider.
Handheld electric frothers are just as efficient as the processor style, and they can usually be used for mixing other liquids as well. Not all handheld models are capable of this, though, so make sure that you don’t use them against the manufacturer’s instructions in the provided manual. The one drawback of the handheld electric style is that it could scratch the inside of cups with the high-powered stainless-steel whisks.
Using a manual frother is a great way to get more control over your foams, as mentioned, as well as a way to avoid using batteries or having to recharge your device to make the drinks that you want. However, the convenience of electric milk frothers definitely can’t be overlooked. For beginners, an electric model might be the best way to get started, but again, it all comes down to what you’re comfortable with.
Quality Over Cost
The final consideration that needs to be discussed is quality. While everyone has their ideas about budgets and what they want to spend on the best milk frothers on the market today, the price has very little to do with what you are getting. Therefore, your priority when shopping for a milk frother should always be the quality of the product and how well it works. Consider the features, the construction of the frother, and whether it comes with any kind of warranty against damage, defects, or breakage over time.
Check out user reviews, as this is where you will find plenty of information about the quality of milk frothers and how well they function in day-to-day use. It's going to be much easier to get the facts about a product from people who have used it. Remember to take these reviews with a grain of salt, of course, but there may be some valuable information that can help you make your final decision.
When it comes to milk frothers, quality concerns are usually found in factors such as the longevity of the electric motors, the durability of the housing, and the fragility of any glass components. Of course, there are any number of other factors you might want to consider, too, so be sure to look at anything that crosses your mind so that you can find the best quality milk frother, no matter how much you have to spend on this investment.