Latte Machines--Like a Barista in Your Home or Office
Latte machines are a nice gadget, for many households. If you have one, it’ll save you a trip to an espresso shop every morning. These machines have simplified latte making, as you can now make yourself some latte in as little as five minutes.
Unlike the regular espresso machines, latte machines come with additional functions, such as an ability to froth milk. This makes them not only useful for making a creamy delicious latte, but also for making some of the closest alternatives like macchiato, standard cappuccinos, or even just the French press.
However, you’ll need to start by getting the right latte machine for your home. This buyers' guide discusses some of the things that should help you decide on what product is good for you.
Types Latte Machines
Primarily, latte machines can be distinguished by which latte-making processes are available:
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Semi-Automatic Latte Machines: This type of latte maker allows users to tailor their latte to suit their individual preferences. Hence, from the grounded coffee bean size to the frothing of the milk, you'll practically be involved in all of the processes.Since the milk aspects of latte are more important, semi-automatic latte machines allow you to control most of the foaming and frothing processes. The machines may come with a steam wand, which is used for forcing steam and air into the milk to create foam. You may also need small metal pitchers for frothing the milk.Now, although these machines are relatively less convenient to use, they help you produce a latte that is specifically brewed to your desire and specifications.
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Automatic Latte Machines: These are more user-friendly models, as they require only minimal manual intervention. Hence, most of the latte-making work is automatically carried out by the machine, making them more convenient to use. Usually, an automatic latte machine comes with a built-in automatic coffee grinder. They also have an automatic frother for the milk, so you wouldn’t need to go through the more tedious use of steam wands. Considering how much easier it is to use this type of machine, some people like to refer to them as relatively more advanced than the semi-automatic models. However, what is most important is the user’s preferences.
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Super Automatic Latte Machine: If you’re going to be using a super-automatic latte machine, then all you’ll need to do is add the ingredients to the machine, and wait for your latte to brew. From tamping down the grounded coffee to steaming the milk and micro-foaming, these latte makers do everything for you. These machines are reliable and convenient. They could be the best latte machine option for people who are always on the go. However, note that super automatic latte machines are relatively more expensive and are not as common as the semi-automatic and automatic models.
What Reviewers Have to Say
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Latte machine price: There are several latte machines out there, with greatly differing price tags. While it is easier to expect that the pricier models would have more useful features and functions, this is not always the case. Hence, you might be able to find a less expensive model that serves you well. This is why it is important to know what you want in a latte machine before making a purchase.
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Cleaning and maintenance: Remember that latte machines need frequent cleaning and maintenance, so you have to be ready for that. Parts like rubber seals and the steam pressure wands can easily get clogged if there is a buildup of residue. While some latte makers may require fewer efforts to clean and maintain, others may require more effort. Fortunately, some models come with inbuilt descaling modules and cleaners, which makes the machines much easier to clean.
Important Features
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Brewing temperature: A creamy latte is more pleasurable when hot, so you want to buy a latte machine that produces latte at a high temperature. Usually, a good coffee brewer would have a temperature capacity range of between 91°C to 96°C. You should always check manufacturer manuals to see that the temperature specifications meet your requirements.
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Machine capacity: There are good latte machines with a single boiler, and there are equally good ones with two boilers. So your choice of a latte machine should also depend on this. Usually, a latte machine with a single boiler only makes one cup of latte at a time. Hence, the machines with two boilers are more ideal for homes or offices with more people, since you can prepare and serve more lattes at the same time.
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Group head and size: This is another factor that should be considered when checking out latte machine options. If you want a big-size latte machine, then you should be sure there would be enough space for it in the kitchen cabinet. This also applies if you are buying a machine with multiple group heads. Additionally, note that latte machines with several group heads would also require more cleaning and maintenance routines.
Top-Rated Brands
- De'longhi: The De'longhi company has over a hundred years of experience in the manufacture of kitchen gadgets and utensils. Hence, it's not so much of a surprise that some of its latte machines rank amongst the best in the espresso machine market. Interestingly, the company makes both semi-automatic and automatic latte machines, thus giving you options to choose from. Two of the most requested De'longhi products at this time are the De'longhi EC702 semi-automatic espresso maker and the De'longhi Lattissima Plus.
- Newell™ Mr. Coffee: Mr. Coffee latte machines are another top-quality product that users cannot seem to get enough of. This Ohio-based brand manufactures all types of dedicated and multipurpose coffee makers. Its Café Barista is a semi-automatic latter maker that can be used for making regular espresso, cappuccinos, and latte. It is also relatively inexpensive, which makes it even more attractive to prospective users.
