If your morning routine feels incomplete without a velvety layer of frothed milk, you’ve likely considered a Nespresso Aeroccino. These compact, standalone frothers are famous for their simplicity and speed, turning cold milk into a creamy foam or warm milk into a rich froth at the push of a single button. But when it comes time to choose, the decision often narrows down to two popular models: the tried-and-true Aeroccino 3 and its sleeker successor, the Aeroccino 4. This leads us directly to the central question for many coffee lovers: Nespresso Aeroccino 3 vs. 4: Which Frother Performs Better?
While both devices share the same core mission, the differences between them are more than just skin deep. The choice isn’t merely about which one is newer; it’s about which one better fits your specific lifestyle, kitchen aesthetic, and coffee-making rituals. Is the upgrade to the newer model worth it, or does the older version still hold its own as a champion of convenience? Let’s look at what really sets them apart.
Nespresso Aeroccino 3 vs. 4: Which Frother Performs Better?
At first glance, the performance of both frothers seems identical. Both can create hot froth and cold foam in under a minute, and both use a similar whisk mechanism to aerate the milk. However, the performance differences lie in the details of design, control, and user experience. The Aeroccino 3 is a straightforward workhorse, while the Aeroccino 4 introduces refinements that enhance its functionality and ease of use.
Comparing Design and Build
The most immediate difference is in their appearance and construction. The Aeroccino 3 features a classic, rounded design with a plastic exterior and a lid that houses the whisk. It’s functional and recognizable. The Aeroccino 4, on the other hand, sports a more modern, cylindrical silhouette with a sleek stainless steel finish that many find easier to integrate into a contemporary kitchen. It also features a built-in handle, a significant ergonomic improvement over the handle-less Aeroccino 3.
Both units have a non-stick interior, but the Aeroccino 4’s carafe is fully immersible for cleaning, whereas the Aeroccino 3’s base, which contains the electrical components, must never be submerged. This makes cleaning the newer model a bit more hassle-free.
Functionality and Ease of Use
This is where the two models truly diverge. The Aeroccino 3 operates with a single button. One press creates hot froth, and a second press (within 2 seconds) creates cold foam. It’s simple, but it requires you to be attentive to the timing.
The Aeroccino 4 simplifies this process with a more intuitive control system. It has two separate buttons: one for hot milk froth and one for cold milk foam. There’s no timing to remember; you just press the function you want. This might seem like a small change, but it makes the experience more straightforward, especially when you’re still on your first coffee.
Another key functional difference is the lid. The Aeroccino 3 has a spring-loaded whisk that attaches to the lid. To froth, you place the whisk in the jug, add milk, and screw on the lid. The Aeroccino 4 uses a different system with a magnetic base. The whisk sits at the bottom of the jug, and the lid is a simple, non-mechanical cover. This design eliminates the small nooks where old milk can get trapped, making it easier to keep clean.
What About Capacity and Versatility?
In terms of capacity, both models are quite similar, but with a slight variation. The Aeroccino 3 can hold up to 120ml for hot froth and 140ml for cold foam. The Aeroccino 4 has a slightly adjusted capacity of 120ml for hot froth and a larger 160ml for cold foam. If you frequently make larger iced beverages, that extra 20ml for cold foam in the Aeroccino 4 could be a meaningful advantage.
Both are versatile with the types of milk they can handle, from whole dairy milk to various plant-based alternatives like almond, oat, and soy. The key to good frothing with any milk is ensuring it’s fresh and cold.
Making the Right Choice for Your Countertop
So, which one should you bring home? Your choice depends on what you value most.
Choose the Nespresso Aeroccino 3 if you are looking for a reliable, no-fuss frother at a potentially lower price point. Its single-button operation is perfectly effective once you’re accustomed to it, and its performance is proven. It’s an excellent entry-point into the world of milk frothing without any complexity.
Opt for the Nespresso Aeroccino 4 if you prefer a more modern design, value ease of cleaning, and want the most intuitive user experience. The dedicated hot and cold buttons, the immersible jug, and the convenient handle are quality-of-life upgrades that justify the higher cost for many users. It feels like a more polished and thoughtful appliance.
Key Takeaways to Guide Your Purchase
In the end, both the Aeroccino 3 and Aeroccino 4 perform their primary task exceptionally well. They both produce high-quality froth quickly and reliably. The decision ultimately comes down to the finer points of design and daily interaction. The Aeroccino 4 represents an evolution in convenience and aesthetics, offering a more seamless and elegant process from start to finish. The Aeroccino 3 remains a powerful and capable tool that focuses purely on the essential function of frothing milk without any added flair. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed a significant upgrade to your home coffee experience.