Making yogurt at home with a dedicated yogurt maker is straightforward, cost-effective, and gives full control over ingredients, cultures, and thickness. The devices on this list cover everything from basic single-jar fermenters to precision temperature-controlled machines capable of non-dairy and specialty styles.
Comparison Table
| Product | Price | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 (Yogurt Mode) | ~$99 | Multi-use kitchen appliance | 9.2/10 |
| Euro Cuisine YM80 | ~$35 | Classic beginner yogurt maker | 8.8/10 |
| Dash Greek Yogurt Maker | ~$29 | Built-in strainer for thick yogurt | 8.9/10 |
| Cuisinart CYM-100 | ~$69 | Large batch electric maker | 9.0/10 |
| Luvele Pure Plus | ~$149 | Precision temperature control | 9.3/10 |
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 — Best Multi-Use Yogurt Maker
For households that already own or plan to own an Instant Pot, the yogurt function transforms it into a fully capable yogurt maker. The Duo’s yogurt mode holds milk at the correct fermentation temperature for the set time period, and the Boil function pasteurizes fresh milk in the same pot before cooling. A full 6-quart batch produces a large volume at once. The process requires slightly more attention than a dedicated unit since there are no jar compartments for individual portions. Straining is done separately. The value is exceptional because the yogurt function comes included in a versatile appliance many people already own. For anyone buying an Instant Pot for other uses, this doubles as a yogurt maker at no extra cost.
Euro Cuisine YM80 — Best Beginner Yogurt Maker
The Euro Cuisine YM80 is one of the most popular entry-level yogurt makers for good reason. Seven 6-ounce glass jars sit in a heated base that maintains fermentation temperature automatically, and a timer on the unit counts up during the fermentation period. Individual glass jars allow making different flavors in the same batch and go directly into the refrigerator with provided lids. The simple operation requires no temperature adjustment. A batch of seven jars takes 6-10 hours depending on culture strength and desired tartness. At under $35, it is the lowest-risk entry point for someone trying yogurt-making for the first time, and the glass jars outlast plastic-jar competing models.
Dash Greek Yogurt Maker — Best for Thick Greek-Style Yogurt
The Dash Greek Yogurt Maker includes a built-in strainer basket that sits inside the main container, making Greek-style strained yogurt the default output without requiring separate cheesecloth or additional equipment. Set the fermentation time, wait for completion, and the yogurt can strain directly inside the same unit in the refrigerator. The single-container design produces about one quart of finished Greek yogurt per batch. The design is simple, compact, and well-suited to small kitchens. For anyone whose primary goal is thick, protein-rich Greek yogurt rather than traditional thinner styles, the integrated straining feature saves time and dishes compared to any other model on this list.
Cuisinart CYM-100 — Best Large-Batch Electric Yogurt Maker
The Cuisinart CYM-100 uses a single large 2-quart container rather than individual jars, making it ideal for households that consume large quantities of yogurt or prefer to portion it themselves after fermentation. A digital display and built-in timer allow setting the fermentation duration precisely. The included straining basket enables Greek-style yogurt. The container and lid are dishwasher safe. Temperature maintenance is consistent across the full batch, avoiding the uneven fermentation that can occur in larger containers on basic models. For families, meal preppers, or anyone who makes yogurt several times per week, the CYM-100 handles volume efficiently without the overhead of managing multiple small jars.
Luvele Pure Plus — Best Precision Yogurt Maker
The Luvele Pure Plus allows adjustable temperature settings across a wider range than any other model on this list, making it suitable for specialty ferments including plant-based yogurts, coconut milk yogurt, and probiotic-specific cultures that require temperatures outside the range a standard yogurt maker maintains. The stainless steel inner pot is more durable than glass or plastic and handles larger batches. The 24-hour timer covers long fermentation cycles needed for GAPS diet yogurt and low-lactose styles. An included glass jar set allows portion fermentation as well. For users who want to experiment beyond standard dairy yogurt or who follow specific dietary protocols requiring precise fermentation parameters, the Luvele is the only machine on this list that covers those requirements fully.
How to Choose a Yogurt Maker
Decide on batch size first. Individual jar models like the Euro Cuisine suit small households and variety-seekers. Single large-container models like the Cuisinart suit families and batch cookers. If you specifically want thick Greek style, look for a built-in strainer. If you want to make non-dairy or specialty yogurts, verify the model allows temperature adjustment. Timer length matters for low-lactose styles that ferment up to 24 hours. The difference between budget and premium models is mainly precision temperature control and build quality, both of which matter more for specialty fermentation than for standard dairy yogurt.
For yogurt brand comparisons, see our best consumer reports yogurt guide to find the best commercial cultures to use as your starter. For more kitchen appliance recommendations, visit our methodology page.
Frequently asked questions
Is it actually cheaper to make yogurt at home with a yogurt maker?+
Yes, in most cases. A gallon of whole milk costs roughly $4-$6 and produces approximately eight cups of yogurt. That same amount of premium Greek yogurt at the store costs $16-$20. You recover the cost of most yogurt makers within two to three months of regular use if you eat yogurt daily.
Can I make Greek or Icelandic skyr style yogurt in a regular yogurt maker?+
Yes. The yogurt maker handles fermentation, and you achieve Greek or skyr style by straining the finished yogurt through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer for two to four hours afterward. Some models include a built-in strainer basket that automates this step, which is worth considering if you prefer thick styles.