The Best Espresso Machines for Latte Art
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Latte art needs microfoam: milk with tiny, even bubbles and a glossy, paint-like texture. You only get that from a manual steam wand with enough steam power.
Automatic milk systems are convenient, but their foam is usually too thick or too airy to pour art with.
Our picks at a glance
- Gaggia Classic Pro: Best for enthusiasts
- Breville Dual Boiler: Brew and steam at once
- Rancilio Silvia Pro X: Dual boiler built to last
- Breville Bambino: Smallest real steam wand
- De'Longhi Dedica Arte: Slim machine for latte art
- Breville Barista Express: Best overall
The picks
A commercial-style wand with real power and a 58 mm portafilter.
Watch out: Single boiler, so you wait for steam after brewing.
A separate steam boiler means strong steam right after the shot.
Watch out: No grinder, and it is large.
Dual boilers and a commercial-style steam wand.
Watch out: Premium tier and very heavy.
A manual wand in a tiny machine that is ready in seconds.
Watch out: The steam is gentler than on bigger machines, so it suits one drink at a time.
A slim machine with a wand made for textured milk.
Watch out: 51 mm portafilter limits accessories.
A built-in grinder plus a manual wand, so you learn both skills on one machine.
Watch out: Steam takes practice to control.
Side by side
| Machine | Type | Grinder | Milk | Price tier* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gaggia Classic Pro | Semi-automatic (no grinder) | No | Commercial-style steam wand | Mid-range |
| Breville Dual Boiler | Semi-automatic dual boiler (no grinder) | No | Manual steam wand (separate steam boiler) | Premium |
| Rancilio Silvia Pro X | Semi-automatic dual boiler (no grinder) | No | Commercial-style steam wand (separate steam boiler) | Premium |
| Breville Bambino | Semi-automatic (no grinder) | No | Manual steam wand | Budget |
| De'Longhi Dedica Arte | Semi-automatic (no grinder) | No | Manual steam wand | Budget |
| Breville Barista Express | Semi-automatic with built-in grinder | Yes, conical burr | Manual steam wand | Premium |
*Price tier is a rough guide. Click through for today's price on Amazon.
Tips before you buy
Start with cold whole milk
It is the easiest milk to texture. Barista-style oat milks also work well.
Use a jug with a pointed spout
A 350 ml (12 oz) jug with a sharp spout makes it easier to pour shapes.
Practice with water and a drop of soap
Many baristas practice the swirl and pour with soapy water to save milk.
How we chose
We compared manufacturer specifications, design features and patterns in published owner feedback. We do not accept payment from brands for placement. More about how we work.
FAQ
Can I do latte art with an automatic milk system?
It is hard. Automatic systems usually make foam that is too airy. A manual wand gives the texture you need.
Do I need a dual boiler for latte art?
No. A single boiler works fine for one or two drinks; a dual boiler just saves waiting time.
More buying guides
- Best Espresso Machines for Beginners
- Best Espresso Machines with a Built-In Grinder
- Best Budget Espresso Machines
- Best Espresso Machines for Lattes and Cappuccinos
- Best Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machines
- Best Espresso Machines for Small Kitchens
- Best Espresso Machines for Enthusiasts
- Espresso Machines That Fit Under Kitchen Cabinets
- Best Espresso Machines for Families and Busy Households
- Best Premium Espresso Machines
- Best Mid-Range Espresso Machines
- Espresso Machines That Heat Up in Seconds
- Best Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines
- Breville Barista Express vs Breville Barista Pro
- Breville Barista Express vs Breville Bambino Plus
- Gaggia Classic Pro vs Rancilio Silvia
- Breville Barista Express vs Breville Barista Express Impress
- Breville Bambino vs Breville Bambino Plus