The best flat white coffee makers pair espresso-style coffee with milk you can texture finely enough for a smooth, balanced drink. My best overall pick is the De’Longhi Rivelia for its automatic bean-to-cup convenience, while the AMZCHEF 20 Bar suits buyers who want a compact espresso-focused machine, and the Ninja CM401 is a flexible choice for brewed coffee with a fold-away frother. The main tradeoff is between hands-on control over espresso and milk, simpler one-touch operation, and machines that make coffee but do not brew espresso. Read on for how the six picks differ and which one fits your routine.
Get coffee and tea gear delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- De’Longhi Rivelia is the clearest pick for a flat white routine built around automatic espresso and milk convenience; its premium complexity will not suit everyone.
- The AMZCHEF 20 Bar and Chulux Slim are more espresso-oriented compact options, but buyers should weigh their smaller footprint against the hands-on work of preparing and texturing milk.
- Ninja CM401 offers more brewing flexibility than the espresso machines, but brewed coffee is not a direct replacement for espresso in a traditional flat white.
- Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse favors straightforward milk-drink preparation over fine-grained control, which can help beginners but may limit recipe tuning.
- The XIXUBX compact espresso maker gives space-conscious buyers an espresso-and-frother format; it competes on compactness rather than the automation of the Rivelia.
| Ninja Coffee Maker, 10-Cup Carafe, Fold-Away Frother, Black, CM401 |  | Best for Carafe-Based Flat Whites | Brew styles: 4: Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty | Brew sizes: 6, from cup to full carafe | Water reservoir: 40 oz, removable | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| AMZCHEF 20 Bar Compact Home Espresso Coffee Machine, Matte Silver |  | Best for Beginner Espresso | Pump pressure: 20 bar | Water tank: 41 oz | Power: 1350 W | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Chulux Slim Espresso Machine with Milk Frother for Home Latte, White & Gold |  | Best Compact Manual Espresso | Dimensions: 11.7 × 5.5 × 12.5 inches | Weight: 7.8 lb | Water capacity: 40 fl oz | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse Espresso, Cappuccino, and Latte Maker, White |  | Best for One-Touch Milk Drinks | Machine type: Fully automatic espresso machine | Milk reservoir: 18 oz | Pod compatibility: ESE pods | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| XIXUBX Espresso Machine, Compact Espresso Maker with Milk Frother, White |  | Best for Temperature-Stable Espresso | Pressure: 20 bar | Temperature control: PID precise temperature stabilization | Brewing time: 22–30 seconds | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| De’Longhi Rivelia Automatic Espresso Machine, Milk Frother, White |  | Best for Personalized Flat Whites | Bean hoppers: Two interchangeable 8.8 oz hoppers | Grinder: 13-setting burr grinder | Milk frother: LatteCrema Hot System | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Coffee Maker, 10-Cup Carafe, Fold-Away Frother, Black, CM401
The Ninja CM401 is the most flexible pick here for households that want flat-white-style drinks without giving up batch coffee. Its Specialty brew setting makes a concentrated coffee base, while the fold-away frother can aerate milk for a simple home version of the drink. Unlike the espresso-focused AMZCHEF 20 Bar Compact Home Espresso Coffee Machine, it does not require espresso-machine technique, but its brewed coffee base will not match espresso’s intensity. Six brew sizes and a 10-cup carafe make it easier to serve different routines than the smaller espresso machines. The tradeoff is a less traditional flat white, plus no pod compatibility: you’ll need ground coffee and should expect to adjust the coffee-to-milk ratio to suit your taste.
Pros:- Specialty brew setting provides a stronger base for milk drinks than a standard coffee cycle
- Fold-away removable frother stores neatly when not in use
- Six brew sizes cover single cups through a full carafe
- Removable 40-ounce reservoir and dishwasher-safe parts simplify filling and cleanup
Cons:- Brewed coffee is not a direct substitute for espresso in a traditional flat white
- Requires ground coffee and does not accept pods
- The 10-cup carafe may be more machine than a solo espresso drinker needs
Best for: Households that want milk-frothed coffee drinks alongside travel-mug and carafe brewing, without learning espresso-machine controls
Not ideal for: Espresso purists seeking a concentrated espresso base and a traditional flat white texture
- Brew styles:4: Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty
- Brew sizes:6, from cup to full carafe
- Water reservoir:40 oz, removable
- Carafe capacity:10 cups
- Frother:Built-in, fold-away, removable
- Dishwasher-safe parts:Yes
- Automatic shutoff:Yes
Our verdict“Choose the CM401 if you want flexible batch brewing and occasional milk drinks more than espresso-level flat whites.”
AMZCHEF 20 Bar Compact Home Espresso Coffee Machine, Matte Silver
For a buyer learning to make flat whites from espresso, the AMZCHEF 20 Bar offers a more direct path than the Ninja CM401: it uses an espresso-machine format and has an adjustable steam wand for frothing milk. Its one-touch LED controls and 30–40-second warm-up are geared toward approachable daily use, while the 41-ounce tank supports several drinks before a refill. Compared with the Chulux Slim Espresso Machine, this model’s listed strengths lean more toward simple operation than compact width or a pressure gauge. It still calls for pre-ground coffee, and the steam wand needs cleaning after use. The provided details do not specify a grinder or automatic milk texturing, so buyers seeking a fully hands-off flat white routine may prefer the Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse.
Pros:- One-touch LED controls keep the basic brewing process approachable
- Adjustable steam wand gives more control over milk texture than a fixed automatic frother
- 30–40-second stated warm-up supports quicker drink preparation
- 41-ounce water tank reduces how often it needs refilling
Cons:- No built-in grinder, so coffee must be prepared separately
- Steam wand cleaning adds a repeated step after milk drinks
- Compact footprint still requires dedicated counter space
Best for: First-time espresso-machine buyers who want guided controls, a steam wand, and a relatively quick start
Not ideal for: People who want built-in grinding or automatic milk frothing, or who have very limited counter space
- Pump pressure:20 bar
- Water tank:41 oz
- Power:1350 W
- Warm-up time:30–40 seconds
- Steam wand:Adjustable
- Controls:One-touch LED touchscreen
- Finish:Matte silver
Our verdict“Pick the AMZCHEF if you want an approachable manual-steaming route to flat whites and are comfortable using pre-ground coffee.”
Chulux Slim Espresso Machine with Milk Frother for Home Latte, White & Gold
The Chulux Slim Espresso Machine earns its place for kitchens where counter width is at a premium: its listed width is just 5.5 inches. A steam wand and espresso-machine format make it a closer match for a traditional flat white than the carafe-based Ninja CM401. Pre-infusion and a pressure gauge are described as aids to controlling extraction, which may appeal to someone willing to learn a manual routine. That extra involvement is the tradeoff: unlike the one-touch Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse, it does not promise push-button milk drinks, and the manual process can take practice. Its 40-ounce capacity is useful for a compact machine, though frequent drink makers may still need to refill. Choose it for its narrow footprint, not for the easiest or most automated workflow.
Pros:- 5.5-inch listed width suits tight counter spaces
- Steam wand supports milk texturing for espresso-based drinks
- Pre-infusion and pressure gauge offer more extraction feedback than a basic one-touch machine
- 40-ounce capacity is substantial for its narrow format
Cons:- Manual operation has a learning curve, especially for consistent milk texture
- Small capacity may require refills during frequent drink preparation
- Requires more hands-on work than the Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse
Best for: Apartment or office users who need a narrow espresso machine and want hands-on control over milk steaming
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking automatic milk drinks or anyone who wants minimal setup and a fully guided brewing routine
- Dimensions:11.7 × 5.5 × 12.5 inches
- Weight:7.8 lb
- Water capacity:40 fl oz
- Pressure:20 bar
- Wattage:1400 W
- Voltage:120 V
- Material:Stainless steel
- Model:C5010
Our verdict“Choose the Chulux if a very narrow footprint and manual espresso-and-steam control matter more than convenience.”
Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse Espresso, Cappuccino, and Latte Maker, White
The Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse is the easiest fit for flat-white drinkers who would rather press a button than manage a steam wand. Its automatic milk frother and 18-ounce milk reservoir simplify repeat drinks, while ESE pod compatibility gives buyers an alternative to measuring loose grounds. This is more convenient than the manual-steaming AMZCHEF 20 Bar or Chulux, but the added automation means less control over milk texture and the brewing process. That can matter for a flat white, where restrained, finely textured milk is part of the appeal. The machine is also wider than the Chulux Slim, and its plastic exterior may not suit buyers prioritizing a more substantial-feeling build. It makes the most sense when ease and repeatability outrank barista-style adjustment.
Pros:- One-touch controls simplify making espresso, cappuccino, and latte drinks
- Automatic frother reduces the hands-on work of steaming milk
- 18-ounce milk reservoir supports multiple drinks before refilling
- ESE pod compatibility offers a convenient alternative to loose coffee grounds
Cons:- Automatic operation gives less control over extraction and milk texture
- Plastic exterior may be less appealing to buyers seeking a more substantial build
- At 13.71 inches wide, it takes more counter space than the Chulux Slim
Best for: Busy households that want simple espresso-and-milk drinks with automatic frothing and the option of ESE pods
Not ideal for: Flat-white enthusiasts who want to fine-tune milk texture, extraction, or coffee preparation by hand
- Machine type:Fully automatic espresso machine
- Milk reservoir:18 oz
- Pod compatibility:ESE pods
- Wattage:1040 W
- Voltage:120 V
- Dimensions:10.47 × 13.71 × 12.8 inches
- Weight:6.92 kg
- Included components:Single- and double-shot filters, measuring scoop, tamper
Our verdict“Choose this model if convenient, repeatable milk drinks matter more to you than hands-on flat-white customization.”
XIXUBX Espresso Machine, Compact Espresso Maker with Milk Frother, White
The XIXUBX Espresso Machine stands out for its stated PID temperature stabilization, a feature aimed at keeping brewing temperature steadier from shot to shot. Paired with 20-bar pressure and a listed 22–30-second brewing time, it targets buyers who want an espresso base for flat whites in a compact setup. The included stainless-steel pitcher is a practical addition for milk preparation, while detachable parts are intended to make cleaning simpler. Compared with the Chulux Slim Espresso Machine, the XIXUBX emphasizes temperature control and supplied milk accessories rather than a stated narrow width or pressure gauge. It is still a semi-automatic machine, so consistent results depend on coffee preparation and tamping; its single-button operation does not remove that work. Skip it if you expect commercial capacity or advanced latte-art tools in the box.
Pros:- PID temperature stabilization is intended to support steadier brewing
- Includes a stainless-steel frothing pitcher for milk preparation
- Listed 22–30-second brewing time supports a quick routine
- Detachable parts and a vertical design suit compact spaces and simpler cleanup
Cons:- Good results still depend on suitable grinding and tamping
- Designed for small-scale home or office use, not commercial volume
- Supplied accessories may not cover the needs of advanced latte-art practice
Best for: Home or office espresso drinkers who value stated temperature stabilization and want a compact machine with a milk pitcher included
Not ideal for: High-volume users, buyers seeking commercial equipment, or beginners expecting advanced latte-art support and fully automatic milk texturing
- Pressure:20 bar
- Temperature control:PID precise temperature stabilization
- Brewing time:22–30 seconds
- Frothing pitcher:Included stainless-steel pitcher
- Design:Vertical, space-saving
- Noise reduction:Yes
- Cleaning:Detachable parts
Our verdict“Choose the XIXUBX if temperature stability and an included pitcher are priorities, and you are willing to handle espresso preparation yourself.”
De’Longhi Rivelia Automatic Espresso Machine, Milk Frother, White
The Rivelia is the strongest fit here for households that want a flat white with little manual milk work: its one-touch drink controls and automatic LatteCrema Hot System make repeatable milk-based drinks simpler than with the manual frothers on the AMZCHEF or XIXUBX machines. The 13-setting burr grinder gives more control over the espresso base, while four user profiles can save preferences for different people. Its two interchangeable bean hoppers also suit homes that switch between regular and decaf or different roast styles. That flexibility brings more setup and learning than the simpler Chulux, and the bean-switch system may limit which beans work smoothly. I’d choose it for convenience and personalization, not for hands-on espresso experimentation or a compact, low-complexity setup.
Pros:- One-touch operation and an automatic milk system reduce the steps needed for milk-based drinks.
- Four user profiles let multiple people save personalized drink settings.
- Two interchangeable bean hoppers make it easier to keep different beans available.
- The 13-setting burr grinder offers control over the grind for the espresso base.
Cons:- Its many settings may take time to learn and configure.
- The bean-switch system may restrict which beans are convenient to use.
- Automatic milk preparation offers less hands-on control over texture than a manual frother.
Best for: Households with several coffee drinkers who want saved preferences, freshly ground beans, and automatic milk preparation for flat whites.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking a compact, straightforward machine or those who prefer manual control over milk texture and espresso preparation.
- Bean hoppers:Two interchangeable 8.8 oz hoppers
- Grinder:13-setting burr grinder
- Milk frother:LatteCrema Hot System
- Display:3.5-inch color touch screen
- User profiles:4
- Color:White
Our verdict“Choose the Rivelia if several people want personalized, low-effort flat whites; skip it if you value a simpler machine or manual milk control.”
How We Picked
I ranked these machines by how well their brewing method and milk setup fit a flat white, not by headline features alone. Espresso capability and the ability to prepare smooth, finely textured milk mattered most; I also weighed workflow, control, footprint, cleaning demands, and how much skill each machine asks of the user. A coffee maker with a frother can make a milky drink, but it does not automatically produce the espresso base or milk texture associated with a classic flat white.
That logic puts the De’Longhi Rivelia first for buyers seeking an integrated, low-effort espresso routine, while the AMZCHEF and Chulux earn places for a more compact, espresso-led approach. The Mr. Coffee prioritizes accessible drink preparation, the XIXUBX prioritizes a smaller espresso setup, and the Ninja CM401 ranks as a versatile coffee-and-frothing option rather than a strict flat white specialist. The order reflects fit for the drink, ease of use, and practical compromises—not a claim that every machine makes the same style of flat white.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Flat White Coffee Makers
Before choosing a machine, decide what you mean by a flat white at home: a close match to espresso-bar espresso and microfoam, or a convenient milky coffee in a similar style. That distinction matters more than a long feature list. These buying factors can help you choose a setup you will use often, rather than one that asks for more effort or counter space than your routine allows.
Start With the Coffee Base
A traditional flat white is built around espresso, so check how the machine actually brews before focusing on its drink labels. Some machines prepare espresso; others brew drip-style coffee and add frothed milk. The latter can make a satisfying milk coffee, but it will usually taste less concentrated than an espresso-based flat white. Think about whether a close café-style result matters or whether convenience and a larger brewed cup matter more. A common mistake is buying a machine because it has a frother, then expecting that feature to compensate for a different coffee base.
Match Milk Texture to Your Skill Level
Flat white milk is smooth and finely textured, not a tall cap of dry foam. A hands-on steam wand can offer more control, but getting consistent texture takes practice and attention to milk temperature. Automatic or one-touch systems reduce the technique required, though they may offer fewer ways to adjust the result. If you are new to milk drinks, prioritize a workflow you can repeat on busy mornings rather than assuming manual control will be easy to master. Also check how milk-contact parts are cleaned, since a fiddly cleanup routine can discourage everyday use.
Decide How Much Control You Will Use
More control is useful when you want to adjust strength, shot size, or milk texture from one drink to the next. It is less valuable if you prefer pressing a button and getting a familiar result. Consider who will use the machine and whether they are willing to learn a repeatable process. A household with different drink preferences may benefit from flexibility, while a single daily flat white drinker may prefer a simpler setup. Avoid paying for controls you do not plan to use, but do not choose a locked-down workflow if recipe tuning is part of the appeal.
Measure the Whole Setup, Not Just the Machine
Compact machines can free up counter space, but espresso preparation may also call for room to handle cups, milk, and accessories. Check the machine’s height as well as its width, especially if it will sit under cabinets. Consider where water refills and cleaning will happen; a tight corner can make routine maintenance awkward even when the footprint looks small. If you make several drinks back to back, a compact single-drink workflow may feel slower than a larger or more automated setup. Measure the space you can actually access, not just the section of counter the machine occupies.
Think Through Your Daily Drink Pattern
A machine that suits one flat white a day may be a poor fit for a household making several milk drinks at once. Look at how many steps repeat for each cup, including grinding or loading coffee, preparing milk, and cleaning milk-contact parts. If you also want regular drip coffee, a versatile brewer like the Ninja can cover more uses, though it makes a different base than espresso. If nearly every cup is espresso-based, an espresso-focused machine may make better use of your counter. Choose around your most common routine, not an occasional drink you might make.
Treat Maintenance as Part of the Workflow
Milk residue and coffee oils affect both hygiene and taste, so maintenance is not a side issue. Before choosing, find out which parts need rinsing after each milk drink and which tasks happen less often, such as descaling. Automatic features can reduce some steps while adding components that still need care. A machine is only convenient if its cleaning routine feels manageable in your kitchen. If you know you are unlikely to clean a complicated milk system promptly, favor a setup with a simpler routine over extra drink options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a coffee maker with a milk frother make a true flat white?
Not by itself. A flat white is generally espresso topped with smooth, finely textured milk, so the coffee base matters as much as the frother. A drip brewer with a frother can make a pleasant milky coffee, but its flavor and strength will differ from an espresso-based drink. If matching the traditional style is your priority, choose an espresso-capable machine and learn how its milk system performs. If you mainly want a convenient coffee-and-milk drink, a brewer with a frother may still suit your routine.
Should I choose an automatic machine or a manual milk-frothing setup?
Choose automatic operation if repeatability and fewer hands-on steps matter more than adjusting every part of the drink. A manual setup gives you more direct control over milk texture, but it asks for practice and attention at each serving. Neither approach guarantees a better cup for every buyer; skill and routine shape the result. Consider whether you enjoy refining a technique or simply want a dependable morning drink. Also factor in cleaning, since the easiest machine to use is often the one whose care routine you will follow.
Is a compact espresso machine a good choice for making flat whites every day?
It can be, especially if counter space is limited and espresso is the main drink you make. Compact models may require more hands-on preparation and can feel less convenient when making several drinks in a row. Check the layout around the machine, including room for a cup and milk, rather than judging only its listed footprint. Think about how often you will refill water and clean the frother, too. If the compact setup makes those repeated tasks awkward, a larger or more automated option may fit daily use better.
Is the Ninja CM401 a suitable choice if I mainly want flat whites?
The Ninja CM401 makes the most sense if you also want brewed coffee and value the flexibility of its fold-away frother. Its brewing style differs from espresso, so it is better viewed as a way to make a milk coffee in a flat-white-inspired style than as a dedicated espresso machine. If concentrated espresso flavor is your main priority, compare it with the AMZCHEF, Chulux, XIXUBX, or Rivelia instead. If your household drinks both brewed coffee and milk drinks, the Ninja’s broader role may justify that compromise. Decide which drink you will make most often before choosing.
What should I prioritize if several people in my household will use the machine?
Prioritize a workflow everyone can understand and a cleaning routine that will not be skipped. A highly hands-on machine may appeal to the person who enjoys making espresso but frustrate other household members. An automatic or one-touch approach can reduce the learning curve, while a more flexible machine may better serve people with different drink preferences. Consider how many cups you will prepare in one session, since repeated milk preparation can slow down a compact setup. Agree on the main use case first: espresso-based milk drinks, general coffee, or a mix of both.
Conclusion
For most buyers seeking an espresso-based flat white with less manual work, I recommend the De’Longhi Rivelia as best overall; it is also the best premium choice for an automatic bean-to-cup routine. The AMZCHEF 20 Bar is my best value-style pick for shoppers who want a compact espresso-focused format, while the Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse is the best for beginners who favor straightforward milk-drink preparation over fine control. Choose the Chulux Slim or XIXUBX if a smaller espresso setup is your main need, weighing each against your preferred workflow and cleanup tolerance. If you want brewed coffee as well as frothed milk, the Ninja CM401 is the most versatile fit—but not the closest match to a traditional espresso-based flat white.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
