Best Coffee Machine For Latte Drinks
There are many kinds of coffee machines ranging from simple drip to more complex Espresso. A latte maker is different from an espresso machine because the milk carafe can be removed and placed in the refrigerator for steaming milk-based drinks.
These machines also tend to have an extremely powerful steam wand which produces rich foam for cappuccinos as well as lattes at the touch of the button. They are ideal for whole, low fat or skim milk, and also with milk alternatives made of non-dairy sources like soy.
1. Cuisinart DCM-810 Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
The Cuisinart DCM-810 Espresso and Cappuccino Machine elevates home coffee making to cafe-caliber status. With 19 bar of pressure, this electric brewing system produces a rich flavor and a silky smooth crema. The adjustable design lets users pick between double and single espressos hot water for Americanos, or cappuccinos or lattes with the included stainless steel steam nozzle and foaming cup. They can adjust the espresso strength and temperature of brew, as well as the volume of milk, with presets. The machine is also compatible with Nespresso(r) OriginalLine capsules and features a waste bin that automatically ejects the capsules. Two-year warranty included.
3. Philips SMART Espresso Machine and Cappuccino Maker with Milk Frother
This machine is super-automatic and can make lattes and cappuccinos at the touch of one button. It has a hopper to hold the beans, as well as steam frothers to make milk drinks. It might not have as many features, but it's nonetheless a top machine at reasonable prices.
Its brewing system has what Philips calls an "intelligent brew system." Best coffee machine pod claims that it chooses the ideal temperature for water to get the best flavor from your coffee beans and our tests have proven this to be the case. It also has a pre-infusion phase which allows the beans to expand prior to the extraction cycle, making for a smoother cup of coffee.
The machine is fast and easy to use. The controls are clearly labeled and easy to choose a drink on the large, clear display. The machine will automatically cleanse itself after a few minutes. Choose your favorite caffeinated beverage and turn it on. The machine will then save your strength and water settings to allow you to make a quick cup the next time you want one.
Like other espresso machines, the Philips SMART does take some getting used to. It can be noisy when the steam wand is operating (and even if it doesn't). It is also recommended that you clean the frothing device after each use. This can be a hassle if you make many milky drinks throughout the day. It is possible to use the wand without doing this, but it's not ideal as you could find dried milk stuck in the nozzle.
This is a fantastic espresso and latte maker for people who want to cut their trips to the coffee shop, but want complete control over their drinks. It's also a great alternative to buying a dedicated Nespresso machine, which comes with capsules that are its own. Philips SMART retails for less than $1,000, but it will save you money over time by making it possible to avoid those $5 Starbucks trips.