10 Best Yogurt Makers of 2026: Reviews and Top Picks for Healthy Homemade Delights

For years, making yogurt at home seemed like a complex task, reserved for dedicated food enthusiasts. Today, thanks to advanced yogurt makers, fresh, probiotic-rich yogurt is within everyone’s reach, transforming simple ingredients into a nutritious delight. Whether you’re aiming for a healthier lifestyle, looking to cut down on grocery costs, or simply love the taste of custom-made yogurt, finding the right appliance is key. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider, review the top models of 2026, and share expert tips to ensure your homemade yogurt is consistently perfect.

Yogurt Maker Buying Guide: What to Look For

Choosing the ideal yogurt maker can seem daunting with the array of options available. Understanding the different types and key features will help you select a machine that perfectly fits your lifestyle and yogurt-making ambitions.

Types of Yogurt Makers

The market offers several categories of yogurt makers, each with distinct advantages.

• Electric Yogurt Makers: These are the most common type, featuring a heating element that maintains the optimal fermentation temperature. They often come with individual jars (typically 6-7 ounces each), allowing for multiple flavors in one batch and convenient single servings. Some advanced electric models include digital timers and automatic shut-off functions, offering a “set it and forget it” experience.
• Non-Electric/Manual Yogurt Makers: These rely on insulation to maintain heat, often requiring you to pre-heat the milk to the correct temperature before adding the starter and placing it in the insulated container. They are simpler, often more budget-friendly, and require no electricity during fermentation, but offer less precise temperature control.
• Greek Yogurt Strainers: Unlike fermenters, these are not yogurt makers in the traditional sense, but rather strainers designed to thicken finished yogurt by separating the whey. They can be used with either homemade or store-bought yogurt to achieve the thick, creamy consistency of Greek yogurt. Some strainers are standalone units, while others are integrated into multi-functional yogurt makers.
• Multi-Cookers with Yogurt Function: Appliances like the Instant Pot often include a “yogurt” setting. These are highly versatile and save countertop space by combining multiple kitchen functions. While convenient, they typically ferment yogurt in one large pot, requiring manual portioning, and may not offer the same level of temperature precision as dedicated yogurt makers.

Various types of yogurt makers: electric, non-electric, Greek yogurt strainer, and multi-cooker.

Key Features to Consider

When evaluating yogurt makers, pay close attention to these critical aspects:

• Capacity: Determine how much yogurt you and your family consume. Smaller models with individual 6-ounce jars are ideal for single servings, varied flavors, and portability. Larger models, producing 1-2 quarts (64-128 ounces) in one or two larger containers, are better for families or avid yogurt eaters. Consider if the machine offers flexibility, like accommodating both small jars and larger containers.
• Material: The materials used for the fermentation containers and the machine itself impact durability, safety, and cleaning.
  • Glass jars are often preferred for health and taste, as they prevent chemical leaching and are easy to clean. They also hold temperature well.
  • BPA-free plastic is another common material, typically durable and less prone to overheating on the exterior than glass.
  • Stainless steel for the inner pot or housing offers excellent durability, even heat distribution, and a sleek aesthetic.
• Control & Automation: Modern yogurt makers offer various control features:
  • Adjustable Temperature: Allows you to fine-tune the fermentation temperature (typically between 68°F and 131°F) for different cultures or desired tanginess.
  • Adjustable Timer: Essential for setting fermentation duration, ranging from 6 to 48 hours.
  • Automatic Shut-Off: A highly convenient feature that turns the machine off once the fermentation cycle is complete, preventing over-fermentation and overly sour yogurt.
  • LED Display and Beep Function: Provides clear information on remaining time and alerts you when your yogurt is ready.
• Ease of Cleaning: Look for models with dishwasher-safe components like jars and lids to simplify cleanup. The main unit should be easy to wipe down. For Greek yogurt strainers, consider the mesh material – stainless steel is generally more durable and easier to clean than plastic.
• Versatility: Some yogurt makers can do more than just ferment dairy yogurt. Many can make plant-based yogurts, natto, cheese, or even fruit wine. If you enjoy experimenting, a multi-functional model could be a valuable addition to your kitchen.
• Footprint: Consider your available countertop and storage space. While larger capacity machines are great, they naturally take up more room.

Top 10 Best Yogurt Makers of 2026: Detailed Reviews

After extensive research and expert evaluation, here are our top picks for the best yogurt makers available in 2026, designed to help you create delicious, healthy homemade yogurt.

1. Euro Cuisine YM80 Electric Yogurt Maker

Best Overall Value
The Euro Cuisine YM80 is a perennial favorite for its simplicity and consistent results. This electric yogurt maker comes with seven 6-ounce glass jars, perfect for individual portions and experimenting with multiple flavors. It’s budget-friendly and user-friendly, making it an excellent entry-level option for homemade yogurt. The glass jars are dishwasher-safe, simplifying cleanup. However, it lacks an automatic shut-off and a digital timer, requiring you to monitor the fermentation process or set an external timer. It ferments up to 42 ounces of yogurt in one cycle, typically taking 6 to 12 hours.

2. Euro Cuisine Automatic Digital Yogurt Maker (YMX650)

Best with Automatic Shut-Off
An upgrade from the YM80, the YMX650 offers the added convenience of a digital timer and an automatic shut-off function (up to 15 hours), ideal for those who prefer not to monitor their yogurt. It also includes seven 6-ounce dishwasher-safe glass jars with date-setting lids. While providing consistent quality and convenience, some users have noted that this machine can occasionally run a bit hot, which requires careful attention to fermentation times to avoid killing beneficial cultures or resulting in a thinner product.

3. Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker

Most Versatile & Best Large Capacity
For those seeking flexibility and higher capacity, the Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker stands out. It boasts an elegant stainless steel design and can produce up to 64 ounces of yogurt. You have the choice of using two 1-quart containers or eight 6-ounce jars, catering to both large batches and individual servings. This machine features precise temperature control (68-131°F) and an adjustable timer up to 48 hours. Its unique water bath heating system ensures even temperature distribution, which is crucial for optimal probiotic growth. The lids for the 1-quart containers, however, require hand-washing.

4. Hatrigo 2 Quart Inner Capacity Greek Yogurt Maker

Best Dedicated Greek Yogurt Strainer
If Greek yogurt is your passion, the Hatrigo strainer is a top choice. This is purely a straining device and does not ferment yogurt, but it excels at transforming regular yogurt into thick, high-protein Greek yogurt. Its sturdy stainless steel mesh is more durable than plastic alternatives and easier to clean. With a 64-ounce capacity, it can handle significant batches. It’s also suitable for other fine-mesh straining tasks like cheesemaking. Remember to clean it immediately after use to prevent food from drying onto the mesh.

5. Euro Cuisine Greek Yogurt Maker (GY50)

Best Value Greek Yogurt Strainer
Another excellent option for Greek yogurt lovers, the Euro Cuisine GY50 is a simple, non-electric strainer that effectively removes whey to create a thicker consistency. It has a 2-quart (64-ounce) capacity and can be used with homemade or store-bought yogurt. While affordable and effective, its mesh filter is made of plastic, which is more delicate than stainless steel and requires gentle hand-washing to ensure longevity.

6. Bear 4in1 Yogurt Maker Machine

Best Multi-functional Fermenter
The Bear 4in1 is a versatile appliance for those who want to explore beyond basic yogurt. It functions as a yogurt maker, fruit wine maker, cheese maker, and Greek yogurt maker (with an included strainer). It features a stainless steel inner pot and a microcomputer control system for consistent heating. The digital timer allows for precise adjustments up to 14 hours, and it includes an automatic shut-off with an alert beep. This compact machine comes with two 1-quart glass jars and a 100-mesh Greek yogurt strainer, and all parts are BPA-free and dishwasher-safe.

7. Suteck Digital Yogurt Maker Machine

Best for Customizable Fermentation
The Suteck Digital Yogurt Maker is designed for precise control, featuring an LED display and a microcomputer timer adjustable up to 48 hours. It offers a wide temperature range (68°F to 131°F) using energy-efficient PTC heating technology. This model includes eight 6-ounce jars, allowing you to create multiple flavors or varieties, from traditional dairy to plant-based options. Its focus on precise temperature control makes it ideal for achieving specific textures and tanginess.

8. DIDIMO Greek Yogurt Maker with Timer Control

All-in-One Fermentation Station
The DIDIMO yogurt maker is a comprehensive solution for fermented foods, capable of making yogurt, Greek yogurt, natto, and cheese. It boasts intelligent microcomputer temperature control and 360° heat conduction for uniform results. The durable, high-temperature-resistant stainless steel fermentation tank comes with a 1-quart capacity. An included yogurt strainer further enhances its versatility, allowing you to easily produce thick Greek yogurt. This machine is excellent for DIY enthusiasts who want to control every aspect of their fermentation.

9. Country Trading Co. Stainless Steel Yogurt Maker

Best Manual, Non-Electric Option
For those who prefer a simpler, non-electric approach, the Country Trading Co. Stainless Steel Yogurt Maker is an excellent choice. This insulated manual yogurt maker requires you to pre-heat your milk, but then maintains the temperature without electricity, making it fuss-free. It’s easy to use, clean, and store, and comes with a comprehensive 42-page manual detailing how to make various types of yogurt, including keto and plant-based versions. Reviewers praise its ability to produce superior yogurt without plastic parts or cords.

10. DICEEVIL Probiotic Yogurt Maker

Reliable Performance with Individual Jars
The DICEEVIL Probiotic Yogurt Maker offers reliable performance with the convenience of individual serving sizes. It typically comes with eight glass jars and features a stainless steel interior, along with adjustable time and temperature controls. This allows for tailored fermentation, ensuring you achieve your desired yogurt consistency and flavor. It’s a solid choice for those who appreciate precise control and easy portioning for a consistent yogurt-making routine.

How to Make Perfect Homemade Yogurt (Step-by-Step Guide)

Making delicious homemade yogurt is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for consistently creamy and tangy results.

Essential Ingredients & Tools

To get started, you’ll need just a few basics:

• Milk: Whole milk generally yields the creamiest yogurt, but you can use any type of dairy or non-dairy milk (e.g., soy, coconut, almond).
• Starter Culture: This is crucial for fermentation. You can use a packet of freeze-dried yogurt cultures or a few tablespoons of plain, unflavored yogurt with live active cultures from a previous batch or store-bought.
• Yogurt Maker: Your chosen appliance to maintain optimal fermentation temperature.
• Thermometer: A kitchen thermometer is essential for accurately checking milk temperature.
• Whisk: For thoroughly mixing the starter into the milk.

The Yogurt Making Process

1. Heat the Milk: Pour your milk into a saucepan and heat it gently to 180°F (82°C). This step is vital for two reasons: it pasteurizes the milk, killing any undesirable bacteria, and it denatures the milk proteins, which helps create a thicker, smoother yogurt. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
2. Cool the Milk: Remove the milk from the heat and allow it to cool down to 110°F (43°C). This temperature is critical; if the milk is too hot, it will kill the beneficial cultures; if it’s too cool, they won’t activate properly. You can speed up cooling by placing the saucepan in an ice bath.
3. Add Starter Culture: Once the milk reaches 110°F, whisk in your starter culture thoroughly. Ensure it’s fully dissolved and evenly distributed.
4. Transfer to Yogurt Maker: Pour the milk and starter mixture into the containers of your yogurt maker. Place the containers (uncovered, or with lids if specified by your machine) into the yogurt maker.
5. Ferment: Turn on your yogurt maker and set the desired fermentation time and temperature (if adjustable). Typically, yogurt ferments for 6 to 12 hours. A shorter time results in milder yogurt, while a longer time yields a tangier, thicker product.
6. Cool Down: Once fermentation is complete (indicated by your machine’s timer or your preferred tanginess), turn off the yogurt maker. Let the yogurt cool to room temperature for about two hours before moving it to the refrigerator.
7. Chill & Enjoy: Cover the yogurt containers and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. Chilling helps the yogurt firm up further and halts the fermentation process.

Delicious homemade yogurt served in a bowl, topped with fresh berries and granola.

• For Greek Yogurt: After chilling, simply pour your homemade yogurt into a Greek yogurt strainer and let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours (or longer, for extra thickness) to allow the whey to drain out.

Tips for Better Yogurt

• For Thicker Yogurt: Use whole milk, add 1/4 cup of dry milk powder per quart of milk before heating, or ferment for a longer period. Avoid disturbing the yogurt during fermentation.
• Flavor Customization: Always add fruits, sweeteners, or other flavorings after the yogurt has finished fermenting and chilled. Adding them too early can interfere with the culture’s activity.
• Troubleshooting Runny Yogurt: This often occurs if the milk temperature was too high (killing the cultures) or too low (cultures didn’t activate), or if your starter culture was old or inactive. Ensure accurate temperature control and use fresh, active starter.
• Avoiding Overly Sour Yogurt: This is a sign of over-fermentation. Adjust your fermentation time or use a yogurt maker with an automatic shut-off feature.

“The secret to consistently great homemade yogurt lies in two things: precise temperature control during incubation and using a fresh, active starter culture. Don’t rush these steps, and your yogurt will thank you.” – Admin, yogurtmakerguide.com

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips for Your Yogurt Maker

Proper cleaning and maintenance extend the life of your yogurt maker and ensure hygienic yogurt production.

• Clean Immediately: Always clean your yogurt maker’s components as soon as possible after use. This prevents milk residue from drying and becoming difficult to remove.
• Dishwasher-Safe Parts: Check your manufacturer’s instructions for which parts are dishwasher-safe (typically glass jars and lids). Load them properly to ensure thorough cleaning.
• Hand-Wash Delicate Parts: Components like Greek yogurt strainers, especially those with plastic mesh, often require gentle hand-washing. Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush to remove any trapped yogurt.
• Wipe Down the Base: The main heating unit should never be submerged in water. Wipe it down with a damp cloth, ensuring no liquids seep into the electrical components.
• Proper Storage: Store your clean, dry yogurt maker in a cool, dry place. If it comes with individual jars, storing them inside the machine can save space.

Where to Buy a Yogurt Maker

Yogurt makers are widely available both online and in brick-and-mortar stores.

• Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Walmart, and Target offer a vast selection, often with competitive prices and customer reviews. Manufacturer websites can also be a good source for specific models and accessories.
• Department Stores & Kitchen Appliance Stores: Major retailers and specialized kitchen stores often carry popular yogurt maker brands. This allows you to see the product in person and speak with sales associates.
• Consider Warranty and Return Policies: Before purchasing, always check the warranty offered by the manufacturer and the return policy of the retailer. This provides peace of mind in case of any issues.

Conclusion

Embracing the world of homemade yogurt with a dedicated yogurt maker is a rewarding journey, offering unparalleled control over ingredients, freshness, and flavor. From the simple, budget-friendly Euro Cuisine YM80 to the versatile Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker, the options in 2026 cater to every need and preference. By focusing on capacity, features, and ease of use, you can confidently select an appliance that transforms your kitchen into a hub of healthy, delicious fermentation. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating perfect, probiotic-rich yogurt right in your own home.

What homemade yogurt creation are you most excited to try first with your new yogurt maker?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is investing in a yogurt maker truly worth it?

Absolutely! A yogurt maker provides the consistent, optimal temperature necessary for beneficial bacteria to ferment milk into perfect yogurt. This precision helps achieve better taste and texture compared to improvising. Plus, the ability to control ingredients and customize flavors makes it a cost-effective and healthier alternative to store-bought options.

How exactly does a yogurt maker facilitate the process?

Yogurt makers work by maintaining a steady, warm temperature (typically between 90°F and 120°F) for several hours. This creates the ideal environment for starter cultures (live bacteria) to consume the natural sugars in milk, producing lactic acid. This acid causes milk proteins to coagulate, thickening the milk and giving yogurt its distinct tangy flavor and creamy texture.

Can I make plant-based yogurt using these machines?

Yes, most Yogurt Makers are suitable for making plant-based yogurts. The process is largely the same as for dairy yogurt; simply substitute dairy milk with your preferred non-dairy alternative (e.g., soy, almond, coconut milk) and use a vegan yogurt starter. Experimentation with temperatures and fermentation times may be needed to achieve your desired consistency and taste.

Do I always need a specific starter to make yogurt?

Yes, a starter culture is essential. Yogurt relies on the introduction of specific live active bacteria to initiate fermentation. You can use a small amount of plain, unflavored yogurt with live cultures from a previous batch or store-bought, or utilize freeze-dried starter culture packets specifically designed for yogurt making.

How long can I expect my homemade yogurt to last in the refrigerator?

Homemade yogurt, when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, typically lasts for about two weeks. It’s always best to consume it within this timeframe. If you plan to use a portion of your homemade yogurt as a starter for a new batch, aim to do so within about a week, as the cultures’ activity can diminish over time.

What is the primary difference between regular and Greek yogurt?

The main difference lies in the straining process. Regular yogurt is fermented and then chilled. Greek yogurt undergoes an additional step where it is strained to remove excess whey (liquid). This results in a much thicker, creamier yogurt with a higher protein content and often a tangier flavor compared to unstrained regular yogurt.