6 Best Milk Frothers [Handheld and Electric]

Looking for the best milk frother? Look no further! A milk frother is one of the essential tools for any coffee lover. It allows you to create the perfect cup of latte or cappuccino by adding that all-important layer of foam on top. 

A milk frother makes your coffee look amazing, but it’s also straightforward to use. You just add your milk and cream to the frother, heat it, and then froth away!

This article will introduce you to six of the best handheld milk frothers and best milk frothers electric on the market today. 

The Instant Milk Frother, 4-in-1 is our top pick. It’s durable and produces beautiful foam in just seconds. It’s also very affordable, making it an excellent choice for budget-minded coffee lovers.

So whether you’re looking for a simple handheld model or something more powerful and durable, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to find out more about our best milk frother review!

handheld milk frother

What Is a Milk Frother?

A milk frother is a kitchen gadget that gets used to create rich and creamy foam for your coffee. It works by heating milk and cream and then using a whisk or an electric pump to create a thick, rich foam. There are both handheld and electric models available, and they vary in price.

What You Should Know About Milk Frothers

Now that you know more about what milk frothers are and what they do let’s talk about some of the things you should keep in mind when choosing one. Below are a few factors to consider:

Build Quality & Weight

Many low-cost frothers are very light and have poor build quality. The body of the coffee frother features flimsy plastic that bends and can even break under slight pressure. With these frothers, it’s typical for the front and back body panels to separate, resulting in a crackdown in the center. 

If you take a closer look, you’ll see that the insulation around the wires is very thin. This can cause problems with your battery or motor failure and an electric shock. When shopping for a frother, search for one with a sturdy outer body that won’t fracture or separate over time.

Many high-quality frothers have greater weight, a more ergonomic handle with inside supports to minimize cracking. Thanks to these supports, the lid provides a firm grip that will endure over time. The frother’s weight usually indicates its quality, so look for something with a significant weight if you’re buying online.

Motor Power and Speed

The motor’s power is one of the most critical factors to consider when choosing the best milk frother for coffee. A more powerful engine will create more foam in a shorter time. If you frequently make large batches of coffee, or if you like your foam extra thick, you’ll want to choose a frother with at least 100 watts of power.

Higher-end frothers often have multiple speed settings, so you can choose how fast or slow you want the whisk to spin. This is useful if you’re creating different types of foam textures. For example, if you are looking for the best milk frother for latte, a slower speed may be better for creating latte art, while a higher rate may be better for making cappuccinos.

The Materials Used

There are two key things to look for when it comes to the materials used in milk frothers: heat-resistant materials and non-stick surfaces. If you’re looking for the best handheld milk frother, then make sure that the whisk gets made of heat-resistant materials. 

This will ensure that it doesn’t melt or warp when you apply heat to it. Some whisks are also coated with a non-stick surface, making them easier to clean. If you’re looking for the best milk frother electric, then make sure that the base gets made of heat-resistant materials. 

The majority of bases are plastic, which can start to melt if it gets exposed to high temperatures for too long. It’s also essential to make sure that the base is coated with a non-stick surface, making it easier to clean.

The Frothing Pitcher

One of the most important things to consider when choosing the best home milk frother is the pitcher. The pitcher is where you’ll pour your milk and cream, so choosing one gets made of heat-resistant materials is essential. Glass and stainless steel are both excellent choices.

It’s also essential to choose a pitcher that’s the right size for your needs. If you only ever make one cup of coffee at a time, then you won’t need a large pitcher. However, if you frequently make large batches of coffee, or if you like to froth milk for multiple people at once, then you’ll need a giant pitcher.

The pitchers on some frothers are also removable, making them easier to clean. If you choose a frother with a removable pitcher, make sure it’s easy to take off and put back on. Some pitchers have a locking mechanism that can be difficult to operate.

Ease of Use & Cleaning

When choosing a milk frother, it’s essential to consider how easy it is to use and clean. Many electric frothers have multiple speed settings, so you can choose how fast or slow you want the whisk to spin. This is useful if you’re creating different types of foam textures. 

Some frothers also have a self-cleaning function, which is very convenient. To clean a frother with this function, you just need to add some water and vinegar to the pitcher and run the frother for a few seconds. The frother will then automatically clean itself.

Frothing pitchers that are removable from the base are also much easier to clean. If the pitcher is dishwasher-safe, then that’s even better. When it comes to handheld milk frothers, it’s essential to choose one with a non-stick surface. 

This will make it much easier to clean, as you won’t have to scrub the whisk clean with a toothbrush. Some whisks are also coated in a non-stick material, making them even easier to clean.

Critical Connection Point

The connection point between the frothing pitcher and the base is critical to consider when choosing the best milk frother. If this connection point is not secure, milk can leak out and create a mess. Ensure that the connection point is tight and secure so you don’t have to worry about leaks.

Some frothers also come with a detachable power cord, making them much easier to store. If you choose a frother with a detachable power cord, make sure that the cord is long enough so you can easily reach an outlet.

Some pitchers are dishwasher-safe, while others are not when it comes to cleaning. Dishwasher-safe pitchers are much easier to clean, as you can just throw them in the dishwasher. If the pitcher is not dishwasher-safe, you’ll need to wash it by hand.

Some whisks are also dishwasher-safe, while others must get washed by hand. Check the care instructions before purchasing a frother to know how to best clean it.

Battery Size

When choosing the best milk frother handheld, it’s essential to consider the battery size. A larger battery will allow you to use the frother for a more extended period before recharging. If you frequently use your frother, a larger battery is worth the investment.

Two AA batteries power a decent milk frother. These AA batteries will provide adequate power for far longer than tiny AAA batteries. Smaller batteries may drain very quickly if you use the frother daily, as many people do.

Some handheld frothers come with a charging dock, while others have a detachable power cord. If you choose a frother with a charging dock, make sure that the dock is easy to use and won’t take up too much counter space.

Some frothers also have an indicator light that lets you know when the battery is running low. This is very convenient, as you won’t have to guess when it’s time to recharge the frother.

If you choose a frother with a detachable power cord, make sure that the cord is long enough so you can easily reach an outlet.

The Price

Finally, another essential factor to consider when purchasing a milk frother is the price. Frothers range in price. The most expensive frothers often have multiple speed settings and self-cleaning functions.

If you’re on a tight budget, you can find some affordable handheld milk frothers made of heat-resistant materials. However, they may not have as many features as the more expensive frothers.

milk frother

How We Tested Our Top Picks

When choosing the best milk frothers, we tested various products to find the best ones. We looked at the features, the ease of use, and how well they performed. To test the milk frothers, we used different types of milk – including cow’s milk, almond milk, and soy milk. We also tried them with both cold and hot milk.

We evaluated how well each frother foamed the milk and how creamy it made the foam. We also looked at how easy each frother was to use and how easy it was to clean. Finally, we considered the price of each frother and how it compared to others on the market.

After testing all of these factors, we chose the top six frothers that we believe are the best on the market. These frothers represent a wide range of prices and features, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs.

Some people may prefer a handheld frother, while others prefer a pitcher-style frother. Consider your needs and budget when choosing a frother, and you’re sure to find the perfect one for you.

The Best Milk Frothers at a Glance

Our top picks for the best milk frothers are the following:

  1. Best Overall Milk Frother: Instant Milk Frother, 4-in-1
  2. Best Handheld Milk Frother: Rösle Stainless Steel Dual
  3. Best Milk Heater and Frother: Nespresso Aeroccino3 Milk Frother,
  4. Best Milk Frother for Latte: Capresso Froth Max Milk Frother
  5. Best Automatic Milk Frother: Milk Frother, CHINYA Automatic
  6. Best Affordable Milk Frother: Aerolatte Milk Frother

Each frother has its own unique set of features, so read the reviews carefully before purchasing. No matter which frother you choose, you’re sure to enjoy creamy, delicious foam every time you make coffee or tea.

The Best Milk Frothers Reviewed

Best Overall Milk Frother: Instant Milk Frother, 4-in-1

Key Features

  • Brand: Instant Pot
  • Available color/s: Black
  • Size: 6.2 x 4.7 x 8.25 inches (15.74 x 11.94 x 20.96 centimeters)
  • Weight: 3.34 pounds (1.51 kilograms)
  • Style: Electric
  • Voltage: 120 volts
  • Amazon’s Choice Award: Milk Frothers by Instant Pot

The Instant Milk Frother, 4-in-1, is our top pick for the best milk frothers. It features high-quality stainless steel and has a sleek, modern design. It’s also straightforward to use – just add some milk and press the button. In just seconds, you’ll have beautiful, creamy foam.

This frother also comes with four programs for light warm foam, thick warm foam, cold foam, and warming without foam. You can also use it to froth milk for cappuccinos, macchiatos, lattes, and other coffee drinks.

The frother also has a built-in milk heater so that you can make hot drinks as well as cold ones in seconds. It has double-wall construction and comes with an easy-to-use two-button control system to select, start and stop the frothing process.

This frother is also easy to clean – just rinse it under warm water and let it dry. It’s also dishwasher safe for even easier cleaning.

The Instant Milk Frother, 4-in-1, is an excellent choice for anyone who wants an easy-to-use, all-in-one frother.

Pros

  • Very fast
  • Can make a lot of foam
  • Easy to use and clean

Cons

  • Not suitable for latte art

Best Handheld Milk Frother: Rösle Stainless Steel Dual

Key Features

  • Brand: Rösle
  • Available color/s: Silver
  • Size: 2.4 x 1.5 x 10.5 inches (6.10 x 3.81 x 26.67 centimeters)
  • Weight: 0.23 pounds (0.10 kilograms)
  • Style: Flexible
  • Voltage: 1.5 Volts

The Rösle Stainless Steel Dual is a handheld battery-operated milk frother with two speeds, low (8,000 rpm) and high (12,000 rpm), for versatile performance.

It features 18/10 stainless steel with a flexible spiral whisk that ensures ideal power transmission and a drive shaft that is also stainless steel for durability. The round handle and suspension ring make it easy to hold and use, while the hand wash only design means you can keep it clean with ease.

The Rösle Stainless Steel Dual has a lifetime warranty, making it an excellent choice for a high-quality handheld milk frother.

Pros

  • Made of high-quality materials
  • Sleek, modern design
  • Easy to operate

Cons

  • On the more expensive side for handheld milk frothers

Best Milk Heater and Frother: Nespresso Aeroccino3 Milk Frother

Key Features

  • Brand: Nestle Nespresso
  • Available color/s: Black
  • Size: 3.9 x 3.9 x 7.2 inches (9.91 x 9.91 x 18.54 centimeters)
  • Weight: 1.9 pounds (0.86 kilograms)
  • Style: Milk frother
  • Voltage: 120 volts
  • Amazon’s Choice Award: For “nestle aeroccino3 milk frother.”

If you’re a fan of Nespresso coffee makers, you’ll love the Nespresso Aeroccino3 Milk Frother. Nespresso is famous for its quality coffee makers, and the Aeroccino3 is no exception. This milk frother features a beautifully sleek design that looks great on any countertop. The Aeroccino3 is easy to use, with just one button for all milk frothing preparations. 

You can make hot or cold milk froth in just 70-80 seconds and hot milk in 60 seconds. The non-stick surface makes cleanup a breeze, and the frother automatically shuts off when you finish.

The Aeroccino3 can froth up to 4.1 ounces (116 grams) of milk at a time, making it perfect for lattes and cappuccinos. It can also hold up to 8.1 ounces (230 grams) of hot milk to make your favorite coffee drink a big mug. The Aeroccino3 is also perfect for making iced cappuccinos and lattes.

If you’re looking for a quality milk frother that is easy to use and clean, then the Nespresso Aeroccino3 is great.

Pros

  • Beautiful design
  • One button operation
  • Fast milk frothing times
  • Non-stick surface
  • Automatic shut-off

Cons

  • Some users don’t like the new design. They preferred the older model

Best Milk Frother for Latte: Capresso Froth Max Milk Frother

Key Features

  • Brand: Capresso
  • Available color/s: Black
  • Size: 5.5 x 6.25 x 7.5 inches (13.97 x 15.88 x 19.05 centimeters)
  • Weight: 2 pounds (0.91 kilograms)
  • Style: Electric
  • Voltage: 120 volts

The Capresso Froth Max Milk Frother is an excellent option if you’re looking for a durable, high-quality frother. This frother comes with a patented technology that helps to create the perfect froth for your coffee drinks at the touch of a button. 

The removable milk pitcher is also BPA-free, making it a safer option for those looking to avoid harmful chemicals. Additionally, the 8-ounce (227 grams) capacity is perfect for frothing milk for lattes, cappuccinos, or hot chocolate, while the 12-ounce (340 grams) setting is excellent for heating milk without frothing.

This frother also comes with two frothing disks and one heating disk, which you can store magnetically under the base. The illuminated controls make selecting the cold, hot, or warm milk setting easy. When done, the frother will automatically shut off.

The Capresso Froth Max Milk Frother is a great option, especially for those looking for a frother with durable construction and high-quality performance.

Pros

  • Dishwasher safe
  • BPA-free
  • Patented technology for creating the perfect froth
  • Heats and froths milk quickly
  • Illuminated controls for easy operation

Cons

  • The Teflon coating on the base may peel over time
  • The frother is a bit expensive

Best Automatic Milk Frother: Milk Frother, CHINYA Automatic

Key Features

  • Brand: CHINYA
  • Available color/s: Black
  • Size: 6 x 5 x 8 inches (15.24 x 12.7 x 20.32 centimeters)
  • Weight: 2.64 pounds (1.2 kilograms)
  • Style: Electric
  • Voltage: 12 volts

The CHINYA Automatic Electric Milk Frother and Steamer is an excellent option if you’re looking for an affordable, high-quality frother. Designed with three modes for making hot milk foam, cold milk foam, and heated milk, it can create super soft and creamy milk foam within 120 seconds.

This milk frother also features a non-stick interior for easy cleaning, and the sound-proof lid means you won’t have to worry about disturbing your family or roommates while you’re making your coffee.

Additionally, the materials of the CHINYA Automatic Electric Milk Frother and Steamer are food graded and BPA-free, so you can be sure your frother is safe to use. What makes this frother even more impressive is the 12-month warranty from the date of your purchase.

After using the CHINYA Automatic Electric Milk Frother and Steamer, rinse the jug immediately or pour some warm water into the jug and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing. This prevents milk residue from sticking to the interior of the jug.

Pros

  • High-quality frother
  • Non-stick interior for easy cleaning
  • Sound-proof lid
  • 12-month warranty
  • BPA-free materials

Cons

  • Not dishwasher safe

Best Affordable Milk Frother: Aerolatte Milk Frother

Key Features

  • Brand: Aerolatte
  • Available color/s: Satin finish
  • Size: 8.7 x 3.6 x 1.3 inches (22.10 x 9.14 x 3.30 centimeters)
  • Weight: 0.22 pounds (0.01 kilograms)
  • Style: Satin finish frother
  • Voltage: 1.5 volts

Aerolatte Milk Frother is a handheld battery-powered milk frother that quickly and easily froths all types of milk in just seconds. Whether you want froth skim milk, whole milk, or even goat milk, this little frother can do it all.

The Aerolatte Milk Frother is available in a wide range of colors, so you can find the perfect one to match your kitchen décor. And it’s not just for frothing milk; this small appliance can also make everything from salad dressings and soft mousse to eggs and a lot more.

Made from food-safe 18/8 stainless steel components, the Aerolatte Milk Frother is also lead, phthalates, cadmium, and BPA-free. This means you can use it with confidence, knowing that it will not leach any harmful chemicals into your food.

Simply place the frother in your milk of choice and turn it on. In just 30-60 seconds, you’ll have perfectly frothed milk ready to use in your favorite recipes. The Aerolatte Milk Frother comes with a two-year warranty to buy with confidence.

Pros

  • Quick and easy to use
  • Available in a wide range of colors
  • Made from food-safe 18/8 stainless steel components
  • Lead, phthalates, cadmium, and BPA free
  • Two-year warranty

Cons

  • A bit on the expensive side for a handheld frother

FAQs About the Best Milk Frothers

Is a Milk Frother Worth It?

If you’re a coffee-lover, then a milk frother is worth the investment. It will save you money in the long run by eliminating the need to buy expensive coffee drinks from cafes, but it will also allow you to make your favorite drinks at home precisely the way you like them.

What’s the Difference Between a Handheld and an Electric Milk Frother?

A handheld milk frother is a manual frother that requires you to froth the milk by hand. An electric milk frother, on the other hand, gets powered by batteries or plugs into an outlet and does all the work for you.

How Do I Clean My Milk Frother?

Cleaning your milk frother is easy, but it’s essential to do it after use to prevent milk residue from building up. Simply rinse it in warm water for a handheld frother and let it air dry. For an electric frother, you can either rinse it in warm water or use the cleaning brush that gets included with most models.

Can You Put Coffee in a Milk Frother?

Yes, you can put coffee in a milk frother. Many coffee lovers use milk frothers to make café-style coffee drinks at home. Just add your coffee and milk of choice to the frothing pitcher and froth away.

frothers for coffee

The Final Say on the Best Milk Frother

The best milk frothers are the ones that are easy to use and produce great foam. If you’re looking for a durable, affordable option, we recommend the Instant Milk Frother, 4-in-1. It’s simple to use and produces beautiful foam in just seconds.

If you’re looking for a more expensive frother with more features, we recommend the Dual or the Nespresso Aeroccino3 Milk Frother. This frother has a one-touch button for cold or hot milk foam, and its non-stick coating means that it’s easy to clean.

There you have it! Our top picks for the best milk frothers on the market. We hope that our reviews have helped you choose the perfect frother for your needs. No matter which frother you choose, you’re sure to enjoy delicious, creamy foam in every cup of coffee. So what are you waiting for? Get frothing!