Best Handheld Milk Frothers in 2023

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Coffee lovers, rejoice! With the invention of the handheld milk frother, making your own cappuccino or latte at home has never been easier. Not only are these portable frothers great for whipping up that perfect cup of coffee, but they’re also great for adding a bit of frothiness to your iced coffee, hot chocolate, and other beverages. We tested a variety of handheld frothers to find the ones that could make the best froth, and also those that could be used for multiple tasks in the kitchen (like whisking eggs). So if you’re ready to make the switch from instant coffee to barista-style drinks, read on for the best handheld milk frothers that can help you make that dream a reality.

My Top Handheld Milk Frothers Picks in 2023

Best Handheld Milk Frother

Zulay Milk Frother by Milk Boss

The Zulay Milk Frother by Milk Boss is the top choice for the best handheld milk frother. This highly-reviewed product is easy to use, easy to clean, and comes with a lifetime guarantee. It won't take up much room on your kitchen countertop and includes a handy stand for storage.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Easy to clean
  • Lifetime guarantee
  • Small, yet powerful

Cons

  • Requires 2 AA batteries
  • Doesn't heat up milk

High-Powered Handheld Milk Frother

ElitaPro Milk Frother

What sets the ElitaPro Milk Frother apart from other handheld milk frothers is its ultra high speed, double whisk and extra egg beater attachment. At 19,500 RPM, the ElitaPro can foam up just about anything you throw at it. The egg beater attachment gives you some versatility to use this milk frother for multiple purposes.

Pros

  • High-powered 19,500 RPM motor
  • Extra egg beater attachment
  • Stand included
  • Double whisk design for efficient frothing

Cons

  • Troublesome battery compartment
  • Can spray milk everywhere if you aren't careful

Premium Handheld Milk Frother

Zulay Executive Series Milk Frother

The Zulay Milk Frother is my top recommended handheld milk frother, but if you're looking for something a bit more premium, they also have an Executive Series. I love the look of this version and the ultra stand is a nice upgrade. If you want simplicity without sacrificing power, check out the Zulay Executive Series handheld milk frother.

Pros

  • Handheld operation
  • Ultra stand included
  • Premium look
  • Perfect, affordable gift for family or friends

Cons

  • Battery powered
  • Only one whisk style

Bonsenkitchen Milk Frother

All you need is 15–20 seconds of time and the Bonsenkitchen Milk Frother to get perfect milk foam for your favorite morning coffee beverage. With an ergonomical handle and one-touch button for operation, this is one of the best handheld milk frothers on the market. With several colors to choose from and stand + batteries included, this should be high on your wishlist.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Quiet and quick operation
  • Easy to clean
  • Stand and batteries included

Cons

  • Doesn't warm the milk
  • Battery operated, but batteries are included

What I Look For

  • Power: How many speed settings does it have? Is it powerful enough to froth all types of milk?
  • Size: Is it too big or too small for your needs? Can it fit comfortably in your hand?
  • Noise: How much noise does it make? Does it make a loud noise when frothing? Is the sound irritating?
  • Power: Handheld milk frothers range in power from about 100 watts to 200 watts. Higher-powered devices are more efficient and produce better results, but they also are noisier.

Things to Consider

  • Speed Settings: Most frothers come with two speed settings: low and high. These settings affect how quickly the frother can create foam and how thick it will be. Higher speeds tend to create thicker and more stable foam.
  • Capacity: Most handheld milk frothers have a maximum capacity of about two to three ounces of milk, but this varies by model. If you plan to use the frother for larger batches of milk, look for an automatic one with a higher capacity.
  • Durability: Handheld milk frothers are usually made of stainless steel, plastic, or both. Stainless steel is the most durable option, but it can be more expensive. Plastic is usually more affordable, but it is susceptible to damage if dropped.
  • Cleaning: Look for a frother that is easy to clean and can be disassembled for cleaning. Some models have dishwasher-safe pieces, but most require hand washing.
  • Accessories: Some handheld milk frothers come with additional accessories, such as a stand and additional whisks or beaters. These features can be convenient, but they will add to the cost of the device. Also, don’t forget some don’t include batteries.

Handheld Milk Frother Tips

  1. Clean the frother immediately after each use. This will help to avoid build-up of milk residue and bacteria which could compromise the quality of your froth.
  2. Store your frother properly. Make sure that it is kept in a dry, cool place and away from direct sunlight.
  3. Use cold, fresh milk for optimal results. Avoid using milk that has been sitting out for too long.
  4. Always use the correct whisk size for your frother. Different models of frothers require different size whisks, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct size.
  5. Use the correct amount of milk for the desired froth. Too much milk will result in less-than-ideal froth, while too little milk will not produce enough froth.

How to Care For Your Handheld Milk Frother

  1. Make sure to thoroughly clean your handheld milk frothers after each use. Gently wipe away any milk residue with a damp cloth or a soft sponge.
  2. Regularly check the battery life of your frother and replace the batteries as needed.
  3. Be careful not to submerge your frother in water. Some models are not waterproof and submerging them could cause permanent damage.
  4. Store your frother in a safe, dry place away from sources of heat and moisture.
  5. If your frother has a detachable whisk, take the time to carefully clean and dry the whisk after each use. This will help keep it hygienic and functioning properly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Handheld Milk Frothers

How do you use a handheld milk frother?
Add your desired amount of cold milk to a container, insert the frother into the container and press the power button. The frother will automatically froth the milk and once it is done, your milk is ready for use.

Does a handheld milk frother work?
Yes, a handheld milk frother works by creating a vortex of air in the liquid to create a rich and creamy foam. Many handheld frothers work with both hot and cold liquids, so you can use it for lattes, cappuccinos, and hot chocolate. Handheld frothers are powered by batteries, so you don’t need to worry about plugging them in or having cords get in the way. They are also usually quite affordable and easy to use.

How long does it take to froth milk with a hand frother?
The time needed to froth milk with a hand frother depends on the type of milk and the desired consistency of the froth. Generally, it takes about 20-30 seconds to get a thick, creamy froth. If you’re using a cold milk, the time can be increased to up to 1 minute. Additionally, if you’re looking for an even thicker froth, you may need to stir the milk for a few more seconds.

Can you froth cold milk with a hand frother?
Yes, you can froth cold milk with a hand frother! Just make sure to keep the frother immersed in the milk while stirring it in a circular motion. You’ll know it’s done when the milk has thickened and frothy peaks have formed. It’s best to use cold milk when frothing, since warm milk can be too thin. Enjoy your creamy and delicious frothed milk!

What are the benefits of using a handheld milk frother?
The major benefits of using a handheld milk frother are that it is easy to use, takes less time, is more affordable and is more efficient than an automatic milk frother. It also allows you to make different types of frothy milk for your coffee drinks.

Are handheld milk frothers durable?
Yes, handheld milk frothers are very durable and can last for a long time if used and cleaned properly. They are made of high-quality materials and are designed to withstand regular use.

Hollie Jones
Hollie Jones
Hi I'm Hollie. I retired in the early 2000s, and decided to start this blog to fill my days helping others. I rely on my years of experience in the coffee industry to provide valuable tips and advice on choosing the right coffee beans, brewing methods, and equipment. You can trust that everything on this site has been thoroughly researched with careful attention to detail.

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