10 Best Latte Machine Reviewed
Quick summary
Saeco Picobaristo A full-metal body and professional-grade portafilter+tamper combo, you will feel like a barista instead of relying on electronics to do the job best overall |
Rancilio Silvia A miniature version of commercial coffee machines, considering its brass boiler, 58 mm portafilter+tamper combo, and a steel cover coupled with a steam wand. |
Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso Affordable espresso machine with one-touch espresso, cappuccino, latte brewing and removable water and milk tanks. |
As coffee maker prices rise, the choice of the best latte machine becomes all the more important. It's no longer just about you getting your morning hit of caffeine goodness; it is a long-term investment. Take the wrong turn, and you'll deal with weak espressos and flat foam for years until you can afford to replace your disappointing coffee maker.
Still, with so many choices available, how do you find the one latte coffee maker that prepares your beloved beverage just right? All you need is a detailed buying guide, created with your preferences and requirements in mind. We've scoured the market for best offers and are ready to share the latte wisdom with you. There are ten options on our list, suitable for any budget, kitchen, and coffee-making experience. With our help, you will land yourself the best latte maker in no time!
About Latte Makers
No two coffee machines are equal. Some are perfect for double-shot espressos, others make perfect cappuccino foam, and select few are crafted with latte-lovers in mind. Before the dive into the top picks, let's unpack what is so special about latte machines.
You can't prepare latte without some sort of a milk foaming system. Sure, you could use a cheap manual frother and foam the milk in a jug before adding it to your brew. Making latte like this is a fast way to switching to a fuss-free option, like espresso or even tea. Therefore, latte machines must be equipped to deal with milk via a steam wand or a fully-automated system. It will take time to get familiar with the former, while the latter option will let you enjoy your latte with a single press of a button.
Another crucial factor for latte makers is the number of boilers. A single boiler is only good if you live alone or do not share your coffee maker with others. Brewing two or more beverages at once is unsustainable unless two boilers are present, one for coffee, another - for milk.
To make your choice easier, we've only listed the devices capable of building a delicious latte in this guide, and we'll outline the pros and cons, as well as special features for every option. And you are always welcome to dive deeper into the inner workings of each machine by way of reading our individual in-depth reviews.
Our top 5 picks for latte machines:
- BEST OVERALL:Saeco Picobaristo
- Best semi-automatic:Rancilio Silvia V6
- Best affordable:Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso/Cappuccino Maker
- Best compact:Delonghi Lattissima Plus
- Best looking:Jura Z6
Best Espresso Latte Machine Reviews
This is our shot of identifying the best home latte machine. With dozens of models on offer, we've chosen the cream of the crop and studied each machine under a microscope. Use the short versions of our comments to develop your own shortlist and refer to our full-length reviews if you crave specs, details, and more.
Saeco Picobaristo
- Multiple brewing customization options
- Intelligent self-cleaning features
- Ceramic burrs for outstanding coffee flavor
- Half metal half plastic exterior
- Water tank handle is prone to breaking
Picobaristo has everything you might want from a perfect latte machine for home brewing. It is a super-automatic model with a respectable number of preset drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, and yes, your beloved latte. Five of them are single-push features, meaning you only need to press one button to enjoy your coffee beverage of choice within a couple of minutes.
Unlike other models on this list (we won't point fingers at Jura Z6), Picobaristo comes with a hygienic milk carafe that can be kept in the fridge and is super easy to clean up and maintain in between brewings. Moreover, this model is choke-full of self-cleaning features, including water filter. This translates into a hassle-free experience every coffee lover will enjoy. Imagine drinking a perfect latte with no need to clean the machine. It's as close to a cafe experience as you can get at home.
While Saeco designers did their best to make this coffee maker as easy to use as humanly possible, there are a couple of drawbacks we must mention. For one, the machine loads from the top, which is great for everyone besides the people with low-hanging kitchen cabinets. For another, parts of the cover and internal workings are produced of plastic. While the device still looks nice thanks to a stainless steel front panel, the water tank handle is fragile and prone to breaking even with delicate care. It is a teeny-tiny drawback, but you want all the facts before investing, right?
Skim our in-depth Saeco Picobaristo super-automatic espresso machine review for more info on this model.
Rancilio Silvia
- Barista-grade tamper and portafilter
- Precise control over every brewing step
- Semi-automatic, therefore more affordable
- The steam wand takes getting used to
- Earlier versions are susceptible to drip tray rust
Silvia is your chance to feel like a seasoned barista without stepping out of your kitchen. It is a miniature version of commercial coffee machines, considering its brass boiler, 58 mm portafilter+tamper combo, and a steel cover coupled with a steam wand. It's a powerhouse in a tiny package, and it sure can brew a mean cup of joe.
As a semi-automatic, Silvia takes time and effort to get used to if you have never dealt with a steam wand before. While espresso lovers can skip this step, you can make your own microfoam for a smooth latte. Splurging on a PID-controlled version or opting for a Pro model might be a better choice if you aren't willing to waste time on building your frothing skills.
To keep the size and price of the machine down, Rancilio engineers use one boiler, and we all know that's not an ideal solution for a variety of drinks brewed in one go. On the other hand, the solenoid block prevents dripping, and it helps keep your machine hygienic by purging water and steam after every brew. For a close-up look at all the advantages and pitfalls of this model, follow this link to read our full review of Rancilio Silvia.
Jura Z6
- A broad range of coffee-based beverages
- Stylish look with a blue-lit external water tank
- Pulse extraction process (PEP) for superior flavor
- Excessive price for most coffee lovers
- Stainless steel grinder instead of ceramic
At first glance, Z6 looks more like something out of a sci-fi movie than a coffee maker. It's all subjective, but we feel like it's the most impressive looking contender on our shortlist of espresso latte machines worthy of attention. It's sleek and stylish, Swiss made, and versatile. The price tag is as impressive as the looks, though. This model will never be your first choice if you are on a budget.
With 22 coffee beverages on offer and several customization options, there is no way you won't brew a perfect cuppa for every household member. Besides, the controls are super easy to use, either by button or by rotary switch. A TFT screen will guide you through the process and notify you of the necessary cleanup and maintenance procedures, most of which do not require you to lift a finger.
Despite the impressive price, Z6 is a couple of major features short. For instance, the grinder is manufactured from stainless steel instead of ceramic, though PEP technology can somewhat make up for that. Another concession we find weird is the lack of a milk carafe among the standard accessories. You'll need to buy it separately or settle for using a carton. Follow this link to browse our full-length review of Jura Z6.
Jura D6
- Seven coffee drinks to choose from
- Automatic self-cleaning cycles
- Outstanding aroma and flavor thanks to PEP
- Tiny drip tray for larger coffee mugs
- Milk container sold separately
If you've read any Jura coffee machines review, you are aware that the brand pioneered the pulse extraction process. It relies on longer, intermittent brewing to extract the best aroma and flavor from coffee beans. We have to admit, the taste is outstanding, though it might not be as important for you, latte lover, as it is for espresso enthusiasts.
When it comes to looks, D6 rocks minimalistic design and a black body with silver highlights. The rotary switch is amazing in its usability whenever you choose between drinks on offer. And while the coffee maker boasts a voluminous bean hopper and a respectable water tank, it might be difficult to fit two mugs on the drip tray. The spouts are adjustable, but the tray is not, so this model is best suited for a single user or a patient family of coffee drinkers willing to wait for their turn. For a deeper look under the hood, check out our full review of Jura D6 here.
Delonghi Magnifica
- Double boilers for minimal brew time
- Intuitive control over beverage settings
- Easy-to-clean removable parts
- An all-plastic body
- Stainless steel (not ceramic) burrs
You might be surprised we haven't included a Delonghi Dinamica review on this list, but there is a reason for that. With Magnifica, Delonghi managed to strike a perfect balance between a manageable price tag and superior brew quality. Ease of cleanup and general maintenance is a pleasant bonus, especially with removable parts that can be washed under running water or in the dishwasher.
This coffee maker will never make you wait long for your caffeine hit. Unlike many other models on this list, Magnifica boasts two boilers, meaning water heats up for two purposes. It takes under 60 seconds for the boiler to get ready for pulling shots and frothing.
Despite its compact footprint, Magnifica holds a respectable water container and a bean hopper along with a tank for spent grounds. The cone-shaped steel burrs are used on-demand to guarantee amazing flavor and aroma are powerful without being excessively bitter or sour. Still, look elsewhere if the lack of a ceramic grinder is a deal-breaker for you.
We could also moan some more about the plastic body, but we've done enough of that in our full review of Delonghi Magnifica (available here).
Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso/Cappuccino Maker
- Manageable tag for an automatic machine
- Multiple drink programs available at a push of a button
- Automatic milk frothing system
- Inconsistent brewing and milk frothing
- The plastic body that requires manual maintenance
This might not be the best coffee latte maker considering flavor consistency and microfoam texture, but it is one of the cheapest coffee machines capable of brewing a latte for you at home. A perfect option for everyone who wants to give coffee machines a try but is unwilling to invest $1,000. In essence, you get what you pay for.
The modest-sized maker comes in a full-plastic body available in three colors (white, silver, and red). While some Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista reviews complain about flat coffee flavor, the device comes with an industry-standard 15-bar pump, an auto milk frother, and two baskets (for 1 and 2 shots) with a detachable container you can store in the fridge in between your lattes.
Easy setup and simple controls are among other invaluable benefits. You won't have to scour the user guide and go through a barista crash course to pull a shot. Three buttons on the front panel come with three functions each. Single, double, or long-press will result in a different drink, including a latte. Cleaning might not be as hassle-free as using the machine, but considering the bargain price, a little extra time you spend on maintenance is well worth it.
Follow this link to read the long version of our review of Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso/Cappuccino Maker.
Quick Mill Alexia Evo
- Precise temperature control via a PID controller
- Professional-grade materials inside and out
- Articulated steam wand for latte and cappuccino lovers
- Complicated setup and operation
- A bit too expensive for casual latte enthusiasts
To transform your kitchen into an Italian cafe, consider this espresso and latte machine. It looks like something out of a barista's toolbox, with a sleek stainless steel cover that conceals pro-grade brass parts and state-of-the-art electronics. Unlike its previous iterations, Alexia Evo comes with a PID controller and a shot timer, invaluable for stable temperature control for both espresso and latte drinkers.
With two portafilters (single and double shot), three-way lever action, and an E61 group, Alexia Evo is a dream come true for everyone in love with precise control over every minute detail of the brewing steps. The no-burn stainless steam wand with a dual-hole tip is articulated to provide safe and comfortable frothing.
Despite a single boiler, its capacity is still impressive. You will pull up to 20 shots per hour, though switching to milk-based drinks will take longer, as the boiler takes 2 minutes to heat up to steaming temperature. With so many other features on offer, Quick Mill Alexia Evo is hard to describe in two passages, so you should read our full review.
Breville Barista Express
- Precise control over every shot
- Surprising quality at an affordable price
- Digital temperature controller (PID)
- Large countertop footprint does not fit small kitchens
- Complicated controls take time to get used to
If you dream of a home latte machine to practice your barista skills and exercise control over every teeny-tiny detail of the brew magic, Barista is a solid choice. This popular model looks great, brews delicious coffee, all without breaking the bank. While it's complicated to operate for novice home baristas, once you master pulling perfect shots and frothing a delicate microfoam, nothing will stand between you and your dream latte.
You have to give it to Breville for designing a hands-free grinding cradle and portafilter combination. The fresh grounds are delivered directly into the portafilter, ready for tamping. The pressure pump can only produce 9 bars, but that does not hamper the coffee flavor thanks to two crucial features. The first one is a PID controller that ensures a stable temperature. The second feature is the pre-infusion cycle that promotes the release of coffee taste and smell.
The most important thing for a latter lover like you is a unique swiveling steam wand that rotates 360 degrees and produces barista-grade microfoam if you know how to use it. Adjustable grinding is also a plus, allowing you precision-brewing strength- and taste-wise. For more details, follow this link to read our in-depth take on Breville Barista Express.
Delonghi Lattissima
- Several preset coffee drink options
- Fast pre-brewing warm-up
- Outstanding value for money
- Smallish water tank in some models
- Suitable for Nespresso capsules only
Picobaristo has everything you might want from a perfect latte machine for home brewing. It is a super-automatic model with a respectable number of preset drinks, including espresso, cappuccino, and yes, your beloved latte. Five of them are single-push features, meaning you only need to press one button to enjoy your coffee beverage of choice within a couple of minutes.
Unlike other models on this list (we won't point fingers at Jura Z6), Picobaristo comes with a hygienic milk carafe that can be kept in the fridge and is super easy to clean up and maintain in between brewings. Moreover, this model is choke-full of self-cleaning features, including water filter. This translates into a hassle-free experience every coffee lover will enjoy. Imagine drinking a perfect latte with no need to clean the machine. It's as close to a cafe experience as you can get at home.
While Saeco designers did their best to make this coffee maker as easy to use as humanly possible, there are a couple of drawbacks we must mention. For one, the machine loads from the top, which is great for everyone besides the people with low-hanging kitchen cabinets. For another, parts of the cover and internal workings are produced of plastic. While the device still looks nice thanks to a stainless steel front panel, the water tank handle is fragile and prone to breaking even with delicate care. It is a teeny-tiny drawback, but you want all the facts before investing, right?
Skim our in-depth Saeco Picobaristo super-automatic espresso machine review for more info on this model.
Gaggia Babila Espresso Machine
- Automatic and manual milk frothing options
- Eight customizable coffee drinks, including latte
- 2-year warranty and cleaning accessories included
- The price tag can be too much for casual coffee drinkers
- Top loading water tank and beans container on a tall machine
Italian designers at Gaggia make every coffee aficionado go crazy with the variety of options. This model stands out among other latte coffee makers on our list by offering both a zero-effort bean-to-cup job and a manual option with precise control over every brewing stage, from grinding settings to milk microfoam frothing. You choose whether you have the time or desire to show off your mad steam wand moves or take the easy way out.
Even if you take the super-automatic route, you will always enjoy a perfect latte, as the machine can establish your preferences for grinding, strength, and more. Once the settings are programmed, it takes one movement to set the wheels in motion and get your hands on barista-grade coffee.
If we're being picky, there is one thing this machine lacks besides a more affordable price. And that's a more reasonable height. At 17 inches, it will fit most spaces, but the top-loading latches are difficult to access if your hanging cabinets are close to the countertop. You will have to slide the whole thing from under the cabinets or find another space in your kitchen to ensure comfortable everyday use.
Want to learn more? Follow this link to learn more about Gaggia Babila Espresso Machine.
THE VERDICT:
What Is the Best Latte Machine?
In our humble opinion, Delonghi Magnifica is the best home latte machine. It is versatile, affordable, and a pleasure to use. While it is certainly not perfect, this model comes close to our ideal. However, when selecting your in-house barista, you might have other requirements and are welcome to use our latte maker reviews to pick the machine to better suit your taste and budget.
Renat Mamatkazin
Founder and owner of Lion Coffee and 3ChampsRoastery, 1st place winner of Ukrainian Barista Championship 2017. Interested in travelling, football and Formula-1 (besides coffee, of course).