What do you need for the perfect cup of coffee? You can invest in a high-end machine, but if you don’t have the added extra of frothed milk, it won’t be as divine as you expect it to be.
And have you ever tried frothing milk properly? Using the wands attached to large coffee machines requires some serious skills.
Isn’t there an easy solution?
Of course, there is, because in the 21st-century technology can make life bliss. All you need these days is the best handheld milk frother your budget will allow. And don’t worry, this expense doesn’t have to break the bank to be impressive.
Firstly, let’s clarify. Handheld frothers are devices that create air bubbles in your milk to create froth. The most common handheld frothers are wand frothers but plunger and jug types are also held in your hand, so they’re worth a mention too. Below we’ll review a few different types. You can decide for yourself which one your coffee breaks need.
But first, let’s help you understand your milk frother better.
The 5 Best Handheld Milk Frother Models of 2019
1. Norpro Glass Froth Master
Any purchase from above the link, We will receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.
This is your manual plunger type, and we appreciate the stylish look of this glass design. It requires less than a minute to make thick foam, and it’s easy to clean afterward.
Just be careful during cleaning as the bottom easily separates from the glass, so hold the glass component firmly.
- Stylish addition to any kitchen
- Easy maintenance
- Doesn’t take up much counter space
- No electricity or batteries needed
- Doesn’t always seal properly
- Glass breaks easily
2. Nespresso Aeroccino Plus Milk Frother
Any purchase from above the link, We will receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.
If you have the budget, this jewel is worth investing in, as its intelligent technology makes frothing easy, no matter your froth preferences. You can froth hot or cold milk, just take note of the marks showing what the maximum and minimum levels are for each. Then you push the button:
– A quick press if you want warm milk
– A long press if you want it cold
It has different utensils so make sure they don’t get lost. The brand does give you the option of fixing this to the lid when not in use though.
This unit can give you up to 250ml hot milk at a time.
- Effortless frothing
- Hot and cold milk options
- Heats milk up for you
- Stylish design
- Expensive frothing option
- Requires electricity so you can’t use it anywhere
3. MatchaDNA Milk Frother
Any purchase from above the link, We will receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.
A very affordable unit, but it will still do the job. This is an industry favorite as the brand uses quality materials and you can feel it’s sturdily built. The plastic body is easy to clean—simply rinse in running water.
It’s battery operated so you can use it anywhere, even during your next camping trip. Just make sure you have AA batteries on hand.
You can also use this with various types of milk if you prefer almond or soy.
- Affordable device
- Easy to clean
- Light and portable—Take it anywhere
- Not dishwasher safe
- Metal wand is too short to use in some containers
- Can’t use it to mix in a cup, as it will splatter
4. Electric Milk Frother- Kuissential Slickfroth
Any purchase from above the link, We will receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.
We love this one for its striking looks as well as its effectiveness. The brand gathered consumer feedback on a previous model, and now you can benefit from the 2.0 upgrade.
It’s a powerful tool which will give you a very creamy froth.
It’s lighter than some other models, which may let you feel a lack of control, but this is up to personal preference.
- Stylish design
- Powerful
- Stainless steel makes it durable
- Extremely light
- Questionable durability
5. PowerLix Milk Frother Handheld Battery Operated Electric Foam Maker
Any purchase from above the link, We will receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.
This brand promises more power than other frothers, giving you 19 000rpm. That is impressive, and we also appreciate the low noise motor used here.
It’s another stylish unit although the button at the top isn’t always ideal. Depending on how you prefer holding it, it may not be near any of your fingers if you suddenly need to stop the motor.
- Stylish exterior
- Powerful motor
- Runs quiet
- Quality materials used
- Button location isn’t always ideal
- More expensive wand frother
How to Use Handheld Milk Frothers
Yes, these utensils work quite easily, but your methods and techniques will affect the froth quality dramatically. These steps will help get the best cup you’ve made in your life.
Step 1: What are You Making?
You need to align your frothing with your chosen drink, as each type of coffee requires unique froth:
– Lattes require less bubbles
– A cappuccino needs both steamed milk and foam
You may also have taste preferences as some people want lattes super hot, meaning you have to get it up to 160°F.
That brings us to the next step.
Step 2: Manage Temperature
In most cases, you’ll work with warm milk. 150°F is generally acceptable and works for this frothing method. Use the microwave or stove to get the desired temperature. On hot days you may prefer cold froth—that’s up to you.
Note: Some electric frothers will heat up the milk for you, during the process.
Step 3: Use the Right Technique
When you use an electric jug type frother it’s pretty easy: Most of the time you merely pour in and press a button.
With other types, you’ll enjoy the end result even more if you practice your techniques:
– Wand: Start with the tip at the bottom of your container. When you see some foam, work your way up, never completely taking it out of course, as it will spin milk all over the counter. Angle the container, so you create a whirlpool which aids in adding air to the milk.
– Plunger: It’s easy, but requires some muscle. Move the plunger up and down for about half a minute.
Step 4: Know When to Stop
Give attention to what you’re doing throughout so you can see when the volume expanded by a third. This is usually a good sign to stop, pour and enjoy your coffee. Depending on your drink you can use the steam milk below as well, or simply scoop the froth off the top into your cup.
Bottom Line
Which one will you budget for now? To use, the KuissentialSlickfroth 2.0 is a winner. As coffee and stylish living go hand in hand, we appreciate the original, brightly colored exterior. It cleans easy, and the brand fixed the issues of their previous models—you’re guaranteed satisfaction.
Of course, the Aeroccino is an excellent option if you’re willing to spend a little more. Who doesn’t love an automated method? It’s quite versatile, so you don’t need any skills to enjoy restaurant quality froth.
Found your favorite? Alternatively, perhaps you have more suggestions for the coffee drinker community? Please leave your thoughts in our comment section below. What do you know that we don’t?
