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Built-In Steam Wand vs External Steam Machine: Which Coffee Machine Is Best for Your Workplace?
Coffee isn’t just a beverage in the workplace, it’s a daily ritual that fuels productivity, sparks conversations, and keeps teams energised. But when it comes to choosing the right coffee machine, one of the most important decisions is how you’ll froth your milk. Do you go with the convenience of a built-in frother, or the barista-style control of a steam wand? Both have their perks, but the best choice for your workplace comes down to your needs, your staff, and your priorities.
Built-In Frother: Convenience at the Push of a Button
A built-in frother automatically heats and textures milk for you, all you need to do is press a button. This is a popular choice for workplaces where:
- Speed and ease of use are top priorities
- Staff have little to no barista training
- Consistency is more important than experimentation
Pros:
- Fast & fuss-free which is ideal for busy offices or high-volume environments
- Consistent results every time, with minimal skill required
- Easy cleanup as milk frothing happens internally
Cons:
- Less control over milk texture and temperature
- Can be harder to create intricate latte art or varied milk textures
- Some systems require regular maintenance to keep milk lines clean
External Steam Machine: Barista Control & Customisation
A steam wand gives you full control over the frothing process, letting you adjust milk temperature, texture, and foam density. This is the tool of choice for workplaces that want a true café-style experience.
Pros:
- Greater control over milk texture for different coffee styles
- Better for latte art and barista-style presentation
- Can froth different types of milk alternatives with more precision
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve that may need some training
- Slower process compared to automated frothers
- Requires more frequent cleaning and maintenance
Which Is Right for Your Workplace?
The decision often comes down to your workplace culture and coffee habits.
- Choose a built-in frother if speed, convenience, and consistency are your main priorities, especially in high-traffic break rooms or self-serve setups.
- Choose a steam wand if you want to bring a hands-on, café-quality coffee experience into your workplace and are willing to invest in some staff training.
Both built-in frothers and steam wands can deliver excellent coffee. The key is matching the machine to your workplace’s needs. At Foundation Coffee, we work closely with each partner to understand their culture, space, and workflow before recommending the perfect machine. Whether you want the ease of automation or the artistry of barista-style frothing, we’ll help you find a solution that keeps your team happy and your coffee game strong.
