EspressoAdvice.comUpdated January 2026
Best Espresso Machine for Lattes 2026
Buying Guide

Best Espresso Machine for Lattes 2026

Milk drinks need steam power more than espresso precision. Bambino Plus for auto-frothing, Gaggia for latte art. Best machines for lattes and flat whites.

By EspressoAdvice Team|Updated 16 January 2026

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Products Mentioned in This Guide

Sage

Sage Bambino Plus

Sage

Compact automatic espresso machine with 3-second heat-up and automatic milk frothing. Perfect for be...

View on Amazon UK
Gaggia

Gaggia Classic Pro

Gaggia

The legendary entry-level espresso machine with a commercial 58mm portafilter. Built like a tank, it...

View on Amazon UK
Sage

Sage Barista Express

Sage

All-in-one machine with built-in grinder, steam wand, and PID temperature control. Complete espresso...

View on Amazon UK

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an expensive machine for good lattes?

No. The Breville Bambino Plus at $500 makes excellent lattes. Spending more buys better espresso (less noticeable in milk drinks) and workflow improvements.

Can I make latte art with the Bambino Plus?

Limited. The auto-frother produces good microfoam but no pour control. For latte art, install a manual steam tip. Basic hearts achievable, advanced art is challenging.

Why is steam power important for milk drinks?

Weak steam makes wet, bubbly foam. Strong steam creates silky microfoam that integrates with espresso and enables latte art.

Single boiler vs dual boiler for lattes?

Single boiler is fine for 1-3 drinks. The 30-45 second pause between shot and steam barely matters. Only invest in dual boilers for groups.

Related Guides

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Breville Bambino Plus Review: The Beginner's Best Friend?

Buying Guide

Gaggia Classic Pro Review: The Benchmark Home Espresso Machine

Setup Guide

Best Entry-Level Espresso Setup 2026 (Under $700)

Comparison

Single Boiler vs Dual Boiler: What Actually Matters

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