If you’re a Nespresso owner who loves lattes, cappuccinos, or flat whites, chances are you’ve considered the Aeroccino milk frother.
Nespresso offers two main standalone frothers: the Aeroccino 3 and the Aeroccino 4. Both froth hot and cold milk, but they differ in features, design, and convenience.
This guide compares the Aeroccino 3 vs Aeroccino 4 side by side so you know which is best for your coffee routine in 2025.
Quick Verdict
- Choose Aeroccino 3 if you want a simple, budget-friendly frother that gets the job done.
- Choose Aeroccino 4 if you want more froth options, dishwasher-safe cleaning, and better versatility.
Both make excellent milk foam, but Aeroccino 4 offers more control and easier maintenance.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Aeroccino 3 | Aeroccino 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Froth modes | Hot froth, cold froth | Hot dense froth, hot airy froth, hot milk, cold froth |
| Milk capacity | 4 oz froth, 8 oz hot milk | 4 oz froth, 8 oz hot milk |
| Controls | Single button | One button with automatic mode recognition |
| Cleaning | Hand-wash only | Dishwasher safe |
| Design | Tall and compact | Wider and more stable |
| Price range | Lower | About $30 more |
Aeroccino 3 Overview
Features
- Two modes: hot froth and cold froth
- Froths up to 4 oz of milk and heats up to 8 oz
- Simple single-button operation
Pros
- More affordable and often bundled with Nespresso machines
- Straightforward and reliable
- Compact design that fits easily next to most machines
Cons
- Limited froth texture options
- Not dishwasher safe and must be hand-washed
- Can overheat if used repeatedly without cooling
Best for: People who want a basic, no-frills frother for cappuccinos and lattes.
Aeroccino 4 Overview
Features
- Four modes: hot dense froth, hot airy froth, hot milk, cold froth
- One-button operation with automatic mode detection
- Dishwasher-safe stainless steel jug
Pros
- More versatile for different milk drinks
- Dishwasher-safe cleaning is a major convenience upgrade
- Wider base makes it more stable on the counter
Cons
- Higher price compared to Aeroccino 3
- Slightly bulkier footprint
Best for: Coffee drinkers who want more control, variety, and easier cleanup.
Which Frother Makes Better Milk Froth?
- Aeroccino 3 produces smooth, consistent foam ideal for cappuccinos and standard lattes.
- Aeroccino 4 allows you to choose between airy and dense froth, closer to café-style customization.
Verdict: Both perform well, but Aeroccino 4 offers more flexibility in texture.
Durability and Maintenance
- Aeroccino 3: Simple internal design and durable, but hand-washing after every use can become tedious.
- Aeroccino 4: Slightly more complex internally, but dishwasher-safe parts make long-term maintenance easier.
Milk Type Matters More Than You Think
According to Nespresso’s own milk frothing guidance, whole and barista-style milk produce the most stable foam, while skim and plant-based milks vary significantly in results.
If you frequently use oat, almond, or soy milk, the Aeroccino 4’s multiple modes give you better control over texture.
Who Should Buy Each Frother?
Buy Aeroccino 3 if
- You are on a budget
- You mainly drink cappuccinos or lattes
- You do not mind hand-washing
- You want something simple and reliable
Buy Aeroccino 4 if
- You want multiple froth textures
- You value dishwasher-safe cleaning
- You drink flat whites, iced lattes, or hot milk drinks
- You want more control without learning manual steaming
Final Verdict: Aeroccino 3 vs Aeroccino 4
Both Aeroccino frothers deliver quality milk foam in under a minute.
- Aeroccino 3: Affordable, simple, and dependable. Ideal for basic milk drinks.
- Aeroccino 4: More versatile, easier to clean, and better for drink variety.
Our Recommendation
- If it comes bundled with a machine, Aeroccino 3 is perfectly fine.
- If you are buying a frother on its own, Aeroccino 4 is worth the upgrade for convenience and flexibility.
