Even as a zealous, everyday coffee drinker, I used to think milk frothers were just another food gadget I didn’t need. Fun? Sure. Essential? Meh, not really. My Mr. Coffee got me through the years just fine. Then I tried one, and suddenly my sad splash of half-and-half turned into silky, glossy foam that made my morning drip coffee or espresso feel like a latte from a fancy café. Now I can’t go back.

But the milk frother game is tricky. Some whip dairy and nondairy milk into airy soap bubbles that collapse before you even take a sip, while others create the good stuff—smooth, velvety foam that looks (and tastes) luxurious.

Our top picks

Best milk frother overall: Breville Milk Café

Runner-up: Keurig K-Froth Hot and Cold Frother

Best for latte art: Subliminal NanoFoamer PRO

Best budget milk frother: Instant Pot Instant MagicFroth 9-in-1 Frother

Best for small spaces: Smeg Mini Milk Frother

Best handheld milk frother: Maestri House LunaFro

I tried the best milk frothers on the market, chatted with…