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 in that the milk carafe can be removed and stored in the refrigerator for brewing milk-based beverages.

These machines also tend to include an impressive steam wand that produces rich foam for cappuccinos as well as lattes with the touch of the button. They are great with whole, low fat or skim milk, and also with non-dairy milk alternatives like soy.

1. Cuisinart DCM-810 Espresso Machine and Cappuccino Maker

The Cuisinart Espresso and Cappuccino Maker DCM-810 elevates the home coffee maker to a cafe-quality level. The brewing system is electric and produces a rich, intense flavor and a silky crema with 19 bars of pressure. The programmable design lets users to choose single and double espresso, hot water for an Americano or a cappuccino or latté with the stainless steam nozzle and frothing cup. They can adjust the strength of espresso as well as the temperature of brew as well as the milk volume, using presets. The machine also works with Nespresso(r) OriginalLine capsules and features the ability to automatically removes capsules. Two-year warranty included.

3. Philips SMART Espresso and Cappuccino Machine with Milk Frother

This machine that is super-automatic can make cappuccinos and lattes with the press of the button. It has a hopper that can 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." The company claims it selects the perfect water temperature to extract the best ground coffee machines flavor from your coffee beans and our tests confirmed this to be true. It also uses an "pre-infusion" phase that assists the coffee beans expand before the full extracting cycle. This results in a smoother cup.

The machine is fast and simple to use. The controls are clearly marked and it's easy to select a drink using the large, easy-to-read display. Just power on the machine, then wait for a few minutes for it to complete its automated cleaning routine, and then choose your caffeinated beverage of your choice. The machine will save your water and strength settings so that you can make a quick cup next time you need one.

Like other espresso machines, the Philips Smart requires some getting used to. It can be noisy, especially when the steam wand is in use (and even when it's not). It is also recommended that you clean the wand between every use, which could be difficult for someone who makes many milk-based drinks per day. The wand can be used with out cleaning it, but this is not recommended as you might find dried milk in the nozzle.

This is an excellent espresso and latte machine for those who wish to cut down on coffee shop trips but still have complete control over the drinks they create. It's also a great alternative to purchasing a dedicated Nespresso machine, which comes with capsules of its own. The Philips SMART has an estimated retail price of less than $1,000, but it will save you money in the long run by letting you avoid those $5 trips to Starbucks.