Home Barista:7 Excellent Latte Machines For Your Kitchen.
Home latte machines have rescued us from the long queues at the coffee place. Besides, having your latte machine allows you to experiment with different flavors and is economical in the long run. However, latte machines do not come cheap hence it would be a shame to buy one that cannot make a decent cuppa.
Here, we tell you what to look for in a good latte machine based on your needs as well as budget. We also give you a review of the top machines to choose from. Most importantly, we discern between lattes and other espresso-based delicacies and machines.
What the difference between Lattes, Espressos, and Cappuccinos?
If you are a barista (self-acclaimed or professional), you probably already know the different espresso-based beverages and how to concoct them. However, if you are new to homemade lattes, it is essential to note that lattes have more milk compared to cappuccinos. Espressos, on the other hand, are made by forcing a stream of pressurized hot water through finely-ground coffee beans.
A good machine should be able to make a variety of espresso-based beverages with ease, but of course, this will cost you more money. If you are more into lattes, a machine that is well developed on the frother rather than espresso side will save you money. This is because lattes are usually drenched in milk and foam; hence the espresso shot is often subtle in taste.
There is a wide assortment of espresso-based drinks you can enjoy. The three-minute video below is here to guide you on standard espresso-based beverages.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9jY5clw3P0
Choosing the right machine for your needs
The best latte machine for any household is a matter of preference based on several variables, such as the budget. Before you buy a latte machine for your home, ask yourself the below questions.
- What is your budget?
Buying a latte machine on a budget can be a tall order as most are sold for $100 and above. Instead of focusing on the price tag, we would recommend aiming to get your money’s worth.
If you are new to latte machines, an entry-level appliance will be an excellent place to start and cost-saving- $100 and below. If your budget allows, you can get a mid-range brewer for $200 and below, offering more features to experiment with. If you have experience in making espresso-based drinks, a machine with more features and settings is called for. This will require a slightly bigger budget.
While we are on the subject of budget, it is essential to allocate cash for a decent grinder. Keep in mind that the best lattes are made from freshly ground beans.
- What drinks do you fancy?
Again, going for a machine that is flexible enough to make different beverages in the goal. However, this will need you to invest in extra features such as a quality frother and a good grinder.
Your level of expertise is also vital as it determines your taste expectations. If you are somewhat of an expert, you expect the highest quality espresso. This requires you to go deeper and consider features like the portafilter (non-pressurized is better for tamped grounds) or even the boiler type.
- How much space do you have?
An espresso machine can take up a lot of space, especially if it is a double cup brewer. You want to ensure that there is enough space on your countertop to house your new appliance.
It is also crucial to remember that space extends beyond your appliance’s base area. You need to consider the cabinet clearance as most machines have the reservoir places at the top.
Do you plan on plumbing the machine? Keep that in mind, when shopping to access unlimited water supply.
- Are you a hands-on or automated person?
Espresso machines can be broadly categorized as Semi-automatic or Super-automated.
Semi-automated machines require some manual intervention such as milk frothing, grinding the beans (grind size), and filling the portafilter (coffee dose). They, therefore, call for some level of experience to operate them.
On the other hand, super automated machines are operated by the touch of a button. They even come with an inbuilt grinder that grinds whole beans to an optimum size before brewing according to the settings.
- How skilled are you at using espresso machines?
Believe it or not, you don’t have to acquire barista-like skills to be able to operate an espresso machine. Thanks to entry-level latte makers, you can explore the espresso world without breaking the bank (or your brain).
On the other hand, if you have a good understanding of your espresso brewer (or plan to advance your skills in the future), a much more complicated appliance is needed.
- How often do you make a cuppa, and how many people are you serving?
For the occasional latte mug, a simple single boiler machine will do. However, if you take your lattes religiously, consider getting a heavy-duty machine that will keep up with your coffee demands. This includes features that minimize the effort required in making a cup. Such features are a large capacity water reservoir, a sizable portafilter, and large enough cup clearance.
You also want to consider the number of people you are serving. A large group calls for a double boiler that brews and steams milk at the same time, saving you a great deal on time.
Features of a good latte machine
Below is an outline of some crucial features in any espresso machine. Let’s get to it.
- Pressure pump
This is perhaps the most important feature of an espresso maker.
For proper extraction, your machine ought to maintain the minimum pressure, which is 9 bars. This will ensure a consistent brew with balanced flavors.
Steam operated machines can be inviting, given their low cost. However, they should be avoided by all means. This is due to their lack of sufficient pressure to extract the grounds properly.
- The boiler
When evaluating your machine’s boiler, start with the substance used to make it. Boilers often have aluminum, steel, or brass boilers.
Aluminum heats up and cools down quickly and is thus preferred for single shots. However, some machines use cheap aluminum, which corrodes quickly, leaving a metallic taste in your coffee.
Stainless steel and brass are considered high quality since they are not corrosive and retain heat for longer, making them perfect for multiple brews.
It is also important to take into account the size of the boiler. Small boilers heat up fast hence are acceptable for 1 to 2 cups. Larger boilers, on the other hand, have good temperature control and minimize the effort of constant refills.
Lastly, the boiler type plays a significant role in the coffee quality that ends up in your cup. While single boilers can be cost-saving, dual boilers and heat exchangers allow you to brew and froth concurrently. This not only saves on time and energy but also results in a consistent, flavourful brew.
- The group head and the portafilter
The portafilter is where you place your grounds, whereas the group head holds the portafilter in place when brewing.
Both the group head and portafilter ought to be made of high quality, durable material to withstand heat – preferably brass.
The size of the portafilter also matters as it determines the amount of espresso brewed per cycle. Aim for a 50 to 54 mm portafilter for more espresso per shot. This will leave room for experimenting with the amount of espresso ideal for your brew of choice.
There are two types of portafilters, a pressurized and a commercial portafilter.
The pressurized portafilter has a dual-wall that restricts water from quickly flowing through the puck of ground coffee, allowing time for adequate extraction. Pressurized portafilters eliminate the need for tamping. However, this comes at the expense of extracting crema into your cuppa.
Commercial portafilters depend on the grind size of your beans as well as the tamp pressure to create decent coffee. This often requires some level of experience and will take a few tries for a beginner to get it right.
- Plumbing vs. water reservoir
Connecting your machine directly to your house water supply is very convenient as you will never run out of water. It also removes the strain of continually refilling the reservoir or the risk of burning the machine.
However, this requires proper planning and lots of space, which most people do not have. It is customary to buy an espresso machine first then incorporate it into your water supply system later.
In this case, ensure you find a large reservoir to minimize refills. Also, make sure that your tank is removable to enable cleaning. Keep in mind that most machines have top-filling reservoirs hence will require sufficient clearance.
- The steam wand
Latte art requires a high-quality steam wand to froth your milk into a bubbly, thick consistency properly.
To this end, avoid steam wands that come with a plastic edge as they are usually of low quality. Instead, aim for a metallic rod with 2-4 steam holes for vigorous agitation of milk.
Also, go for a wand that gives you control by swiveling to allow frothing at different angles.
- Automation and brewing technology
Espresso machines have seen a lot of automation to the extent of delivering coffee by a press of a button. This means that no grinding, tamping, or frothing is required when dealing with super-automatic brewers.
Still, most people get espresso machines not just for the convenience of a quick latte but also for the satisfaction of making barista-like coffee. In this case, go for a brewer that gives you a little more control and a chance to sharpen your brewing skills. This is a semi-automated machine.
Some machines are equipped with pre-infusion technology, which wets the ground with a little water before the actual brewing. Pre-infusion allows the coffee to degas as well as soaks evenly before full pressurized brewing commences. This increases your chances of a flavorful and balanced cup.
- Electronic Interface
A decent machine gives you control over the temperature and pressure. This allows for consistency and experimental brewing.
Nonetheless, machines with too much technology come at a steep price. This is a feature you can do just fine without and should not be a reason for paying extra hundreds of dollars.
The best latte machines in 2020
Adaptable does not cover it when it comes to describing the Breville Barista Espresso machine. It comes with both an Automatic and a Manual mode. This means that on some days, you can put your brewing skills to the test and, on lazy days, brew a cup effortlessly.
The Breville Barista Express also comes with an inbuilt burr grinder allowing you to enjoy your espressos as fresh as possible. The grinder has a grind size option enhancing flexibility depending on the bean type.
It also comes with a 2-liter reservoir minimizing refills. An in-built water filter maintains the purity of your water, ensuring great tasting coffee. You can sharpen your latte art skills using the steel wand milk frother that creates micro-foam.
Pros
- Versatile brewer
- Large 2-liter reservoir with filter system
- Great milk frother
- Has an inbuilt burr grinder with grind size dial
- Excellent machine for steady learning and skill sharpening
Cons
- Takes up a lot of space
- Quite expensive
- No empty reservoir detection
Making lattes does not have to be a daunting experience, and Mr. Coffee Cafe Latte makes sure of this. Simply fill the reservoir with water and the filter basket with coffee, and by the press of a button, your coffee is served.
The Cafe Latte Maker works by simultaneously brewing coffee and frothing milk hence saving time. The brewed coffee drips into the carafe as the milk is frothing. Once done, you can serve a cup of latte with the foam settling at the top.
Better yet, this latte machine can be used to make an assortment of 20 beverages. These are well listed in the recipe book that comes with the Mr. Coffee Latte maker. Once done brewing, this coffee machine automatically shuts down, saving on energy.
Pros
- Easy to use requiring only one button press
- Compact with a small base area hence taking up little space
- Easy to clean
- Powerful milk frother
Cons
- It’s carafe easily breaks and is very hard to replace
- The carafe is not dishwasher friendly
- Overpriced
The Lattissima Pro comes with a 19 bar pressure system, ensuring outstanding brew quality. Operation is also smooth, which requires you to press a button for a steaming latte. Using coffee pods, you will be able to brew a variety of drinks, including espressos, double espressos, lattes, and even the much-desired cappuccino.
An electronic touchscreen interface lets know what is going on as well as program the machine to suit your preference. You can easily choose a preferred drink from the options provided on the interface. It also allows you to select the froth quality.
Perhaps the best part of this machine, (other than quality drinks made) is the ease in cleaning and maintenance. You can effortlessly clean up by long-pressing the “clean” button. It also comes with a descaling mechanism to reverse the damage made by hard water. The Latissima pro saves you energy by automatically shutting down after 9 minutes of inactivity. This time can be extended to 8 hours.
Pros
- Sleek design
- Modern technology enhances ease of use
- Self-cleaning hence easy maintenance
- Quickly and easily makes a cuppa by the press of a button
- Energy-saving auto-shut feature
Cons
- It only functions using pods.
- The coffee pods used have to be compatible with the Lattissima Pro.
If you like your lattes fast and easy without the fuss of mastering barista skills, the Lattissima Plus is your best bet. It is a one-touch machine that quickly brews your favorite beverage by the press of a button.
The Lattissima Plus features a sleek design with a touchscreen interface. This displays beverage options to chose from; 3 milk and 2coffee alternatives. The interface can easily be programmed to shut down after a specific period saving on energy automatically.
It also features a thermoblock heating system that switches from cold to hot in a matter of seconds. This lets you enjoy multiple single-serve drinks promptly. The EN520SL is equipped with a 19 bar pressure system making it well capable of delivering tasty brew.
One qualm that we have with the Lattissima Plus is that it is strictly a capsule brewer. This means that without the correct coffee pod, brewing using this machine is impossible. Nonetheless, you get a free pack of 10 capsules when buying the Lattissima Plus.
Pros
- Easy and convenient in use
- Makes tasty espresso-based brews
- A sliding drip tray to accommodate large cups
- Energy-saving auto-off feature
Cons
- Restricted to capsule coffee
- Does not have empty tank detection
- Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Stainless Espresso Maker
The Breville Cafe Roma comes in a sleek stainless steel body that’s not only easy on the eyes but is also durable. Stainless steel also provides an easy cleaning experience.
Other than great looks, this espresso maker has more to offer. For one, it provides 15 bar pressure, which aids in coffee extraction. Since the standard pressure for good coffee is 19 bars, the Cafe Roma makes up for this by having a pressurized portafilter. A thermoblock heating system ensures quick and even heat distribution, which is essential for multiple drinks.
It comes with accessories such as a stainless steel carafe, a measuring scoop, and a tamper. A removable drip tray provides clearance for large cups and mugs while the removable reservoir is easy to clean. The reservoir has a capacity of 1.2 liters, which is sufficient for moderate use.
Pros
- Removable drip tray for accomodating large cups
- A good frother for latte art and milk delicacies
- Removable reservoir for easy cleaning
- Durable stainless steel body
- Affordable price
Cons
- 15 bars pressurized system is not sufficient for proper coffee extraction
- Most customers complain that pulls a shot too fast preventing full coffee extraction
Save for the 15 bar pressure system; this espresso machine could easily pass for a coffee shop appliance. It is accessorized with a grinder that allows you to enjoy freshly ground coffee. It also features a frother with a frothing jar necessary for latte art.
The reservoir comes in a see-through design that is not only unique and stylish but also important for tracking the water level. You can also remove the reservoir for cleaning, which is made easy by a handle at the top.
It also features a fast heating thermoblock system for coffee at the optimum temperature for extraction. You can pull a single or double shot thanks to the two portafilters provided. This enables you to make double shots at the same time.
Pros
- Single or double shot option
- The see-through removable water reservoir
- Protection against overheating and overpressurization
- Easy to use
- Sleek and unique design
Cons
- Difficult to clean and maintain
- 15 bar pressure is not sufficient for proper extraction
This compact, stylish espresso maker might just be what your kitchen is missing. It comes with a 15 bar pressure system for extraction. Steaming and heating are easily controlled by a multifunctional knob.
The Cuisinart EM-100 includes a unique cup warming plate. The plate heats up your cups so that your coffee does not get cooled once it hits your cup.
It also comes with a 1.5-liter reservoir that is easy to clean and fill up. A steaming wand, removable drip tray, and measuring scoop are also provided with this machine.
Pros
- Cup warming plate
- Compact design that takes up little space
- Removable and easy to clean reservoir
- Easy to operate
- Can use both ground coffee or pods
Cons
- Inadequate pressure for good extraction
- Expensive for a machine that does not have a grinder
Parting shot
Getting a good latte maker can save you good money in the long run. They also pay off when entertaining guests and can also be a great office investment.
The trick in buying a latte machine is knowing your preferences when it comes to making lattes. If you do not want the pressure that comes with learning barista skills, an automatic machine should be what you aim for.
We chose the Breville Barista Express as our favorite because of its flexible nature. You can choose between manual and automatic mode, making it great for beginners and experts alike.
Our second runner’s up is the Mr. Coffee Caffee latte that is very simple to operate and make excellent lattes. However, if your budget is tight, the Latissima Pro should be a great substitute for the two without compromising on coffee quality.