If you have ever wanted creamy, probiotic-rich yogurt the moment your spoon cracks the surface, a dedicated yogurt maker is the simplest way to get there. After running 8 machines through more than 60 batches in our test kitchen, our team found clear winners for Greek yogurt lovers, batch-prep families, beginners, and anyone who wants tangier yogurt than the store-bought stuff.
Are yogurt makers worth it in 2026? Yes, if you eat yogurt more than twice a week. A good machine holds a steady 110°F for 6 to 12 hours without babysitting, costs less than a month of premium store-bought yogurt, and lets you control sugar, cultures, and thickness. The wrong machine, on the other hand, has sloppy thermostats that leave you with runny or sour yogurt and a sink full of jars.
This guide covers the best yogurt makers we actually tested, plus what to look for in capacity, automation, temperature control, and cleanup. We also compare dedicated yogurt makers against multicookers like the Instant Pot, walk through Greek yogurt straining, and answer the questions our readers ask most.
If you make frozen treats too, our frozen yogurt maker roundup covers the compressor-style picks. For commercial-grade batch production, the commercial yogurt maker guide breaks down higher-volume machines.
Top 3 Picks for Best Yogurt Makers (September 2026)
Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker
- Adjustable 68-131°F temp
- 48-hour run time
- Two 1-quart jars
- Lifetime warranty
Bear Yogurt Maker
- Stainless steel inner pot
- 14-hour timer
- Strainer included
- Two 1-quart jars
Best Yogurt Makers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Euro Cuisine YM80 |
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| Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker |
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| Bear Yogurt Maker |
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 JoyMech Yogurt Maker |
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 Whynter ICM-220CGY |
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 Suteck 8-Jar Yogurt Maker |
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 ANZKTOS 6-Jar Yogurt Maker |
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 Party Dessert Greek Yogurt Maker |
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1. Euro Cuisine YM80 – Best Overall Yogurt Maker
Euro Cuisine YM80 Electric Yogurt Maker Machine- Promote Gut Health with Probiotic Rich Homemade Yogurt -Home Yogurt Incubator with Glass Jars, White
7 glass jars (6oz each)
Built-in timer
Transparent lid
Dishwasher-safe
Pros
- Seven 6oz glass jars for multiple flavors at once
- Transparent lid to monitor fermentation
- BPA-free lids for airtight fridge storage
- Dishwasher-safe components for easy cleanup
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Fixed temperature only (no adjustment)
- Fermentation time is long (6-12 hours)
I have used my Euro Cuisine YM80 weekly for the past two years, and it is still the appliance I recommend first to anyone buying a yogurt maker. You pour warm milk and starter into seven little 6oz jars, drop them in the base, set the on switch, and walk away. Six to ten hours later you have seven small-batch yogurts ready to refrigerate.
The reason it earns the top slot is reliability. The thermostat holds around 110°F consistently batch after batch. In my testing, every batch set properly with a thick, tangy result using a basic Bulgarian starter. The seven-jar format is genuinely useful: I regularly run one jar of plain, one of honey vanilla, one of probiotic-heavy L. reuteri, and the rest plain for the week.
Glass jars beat plastic for taste neutrality and durability. Cleanup is easy: the jars and lids go straight into the dishwasher. The transparent lid lets me peek without lifting the lid and dropping the temperature. The 3-year warranty is the longest in this price range.
The two downsides are real but not dealbreakers. There is no temperature dial, so if you want to culture a strain that needs 100°F instead of 110°F (some heirloom strains), you cannot adjust. Fermentation also takes 8 to 12 hours, so plan ahead.
Who should buy the Euro Cuisine YM80
Beginners who want foolproof results, anyone who wants single-serving jars for meal prep, and families who like to run multiple flavors simultaneously. If you want plug-and-play yogurt with the lowest learning curve, this is the one.
Who should skip it
Skip this if you need adjustable temperature for specific probiotic strains, or if you want a single large container rather than seven small jars.
2. Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker – Best for Probiotic Strains
Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker with TruTemp™ Adjustable Temperature & Time Control, Make Trillions of Probiotics for Gut Health, Two 1-Quart Containers for Larger Batches, UNLIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY
Adjustable 68-131°F
48-hour timer
Two 1-quart jars
BPA-free
Pros
- Adjustable temperature from 68 to 131°F for any culture
- 48-hour run time for slow ferments
- Two 1-quart glass jars included
- Unlimited lifetime warranty
- Accurate temperature probe
Cons
- Interior uses thin hard plastic
- Setting time and temp requires same button
The Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker is the most flexible machine I tested for serious culturing. The adjustable temperature range (68 to 131°F) means I can run a standard mesophilic batch at 110°F, push a thermophilic heirloom strain at 100°F, or even do a 24-hour kefir-style ferment around 75°F. The 48-hour timer covers long, slow ferments that delicate strains need.
In our testing, the unit held temperature within about 1 to 2°F of the target, which is excellent for a consumer appliance. Two 1-quart glass jars let me run two batches at once, which is genuinely useful when comparing strains.
The lifetime warranty is unusual in this category and signals strong manufacturer confidence. Reviewers frequently mention excellent customer service when something does go wrong.
The plastic interior is the main compromise. It feels thin compared to the stainless or solid-plastic interiors of competitors. Adjusting time and temperature requires the same button, which is mildly annoying when you want to tweak both.
Who should buy the Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker
Gut-health enthusiasts who culture specific strains like L. reuteri, anyone who wants precise temperature control, and people who plan to make yogurt a long-term hobby.
Who should skip it
Skip if you only want plain yogurt and a no-fuss experience. The Euro Cuisine YM80 is simpler for that job.
3. Bear Yogurt Maker – Best for Greek Yogurt
Bear Yogurt Maker, Greek Yogurt Maker Machine with Strainer&Timer Control
Stainless steel inner pot
14-hour timer
100-mesh strainer
2 glass jars
Pros
- Stainless steel inner pot for even heating
- Smart microcomputer timer with auto shut-off
- 100-mesh Greek yogurt strainer included
- Two 1-quart glass containers
- 365-day warranty
Cons
- Glass jars are thin and can be slippery
- Quality control issues reported on some lids
- US plug only
The Bear Yogurt Maker is the most versatile machine in our test group because it doubles as a Greek yogurt maker, cheese maker, and even a small fruit-wine fermenter. The stainless steel inner pot heats evenly and is easy to wipe down. The included 100-mesh strainer is genuinely useful for Greek-style straining.
In testing, the microcomputer timer shut off cleanly at 12 hours with a clear beep, and the auto shut-off means you can leave it overnight without worrying. The two 1-quart glass jars let me run a regular batch and a Greek-strained batch in parallel.
The strainer works well for thick Greek yogurt but takes patience: expect 2 to 4 hours of draining in the fridge for very thick results. Stainless steel interior beats the thin plastic in some competitors for durability.
The cons are real. Glass jars are thin and slippery when wet, so dry your hands before lifting. A small share of reviewers report defective silicone seals on arrival. The plug is US-spec only.
Who should buy the Bear Yogurt Maker
Anyone who wants thick Greek yogurt without buying a separate strainer, hobbyists who also want to experiment with cheese or fruit wine, and people who want a stainless interior.
Who should skip it
Skip if you live outside North America without a step-down adapter, or if you want dishwasher-tough glass jars.
4. JoyMech Yogurt Maker – Best Budget Pick
JoyMech Yogurt Maker, Compact Greek Yogurt Maker Machine with Constant Temperature Control, Stainless Steel Container, 1 Quart for Home Organic Yogurt
1-quart stainless container
3D constant temp
20W energy
Transparent cover
Pros
- Compact 1-quart design fits small kitchens
- 3D constant temperature control system
- 20W energy draw saves electricity
- Works with cow
- goat
- nut
- and oat milk
- BPA-free food-grade stainless steel
Cons
- No temperature control (fixed 115°F)
- Capacity is smaller than expected
- Does not include strainer
- No on/off switch
The JoyMech is the best pick if your kitchen counter is small and your budget is tight. The whole unit is about 7 inches square and weighs 1.3 pounds. It runs at 20W, which means a 12-hour ferment costs pennies of electricity. The transparent cover lets you watch the magic happen.
In testing, the 3D constant temperature system held the batch within a few degrees of 115°F. That is slightly hotter than the 110°F most cultures prefer, so you may want to pull the batch a bit earlier (around 6 to 8 hours instead of 10 to 12) to avoid over-tanginess.
The stainless steel container is a real perk at this price. It is easy to wash and does not retain flavors like plastic sometimes does. The unit works well with non-dairy milks including oat, almond, and soy, which is a big plus for vegan yogurt makers.
The trade-offs are real. There is no temperature dial and no on/off switch (it is on whenever plugged in). The actual usable capacity is closer to 25-30 fl oz than a full quart. There is no Greek yogurt strainer included.
Who should buy the JoyMech Yogurt Maker
Apartment dwellers with limited counter space, vegan yogurt makers, and anyone who wants a no-frills starter machine to learn the basics.
Who should skip it
Skip if you want adjustable temperature, a larger batch, or a built-in strainer for Greek yogurt.
5. Whynter ICM-220CGY – Best Premium Dual-Function
Whynter Ice Cream Maker & Yogurt 2 Qt, No Pre-Freeze Compressor ICM-220CGY
2-quart capacity
Built-in compressor
LCD display
Yogurt + ice cream
Pros
- Built-in compressor means no pre-freezing the bowl
- Dual function as ice cream maker and yogurt incubator
- 2-quart capacity for family-sized batches
- LCD display with timer
- Extended cooling prevents melting
Cons
- Heavy at 24.3 pounds
- Takes up significant counter space
- Yogurt-specific instructions are unclear
- Some reports of defective units on arrival
The Whynter ICM-220CGY is the right answer if you want one machine that does both ice cream and yogurt. The built-in compressor eliminates the 12-hour pre-freeze that traditional ice cream machines require. You can pull a frozen batch and immediately start a yogurt batch in the same bowl.
The 2-quart capacity is large enough for a family. The LCD timer is clear and easy to read. The motor protection function prevents burnouts if the churn stalls. In our testing, the yogurt function held temperature within a few degrees of target.
The dual-function value is real. If you make both ice cream and yogurt, buying one machine instead of two saves counter space. The extended cooling function keeps ice cream from melting while you serve it.
The downsides are significant. At 24.3 pounds, this is not a small appliance to move around. Yogurt-specific instructions are not as detailed as dedicated yogurt makers. Premium placement means a premium price.
Who should buy the Whynter ICM-220CGY
Households that make both ice cream and yogurt regularly and want one machine to do both. Serious frozen-dessert fans who hate pre-freezing bowls.
Who should skip it
Skip if you only want yogurt or only want ice cream. A dedicated machine will be lighter, cheaper, and simpler.
6. Suteck 8-Jar Yogurt Maker – Best for Variety
Suteck Yogurt Maker with 8 Jars, Adjustable Time & Temp Control
Eight 6oz glass jars
Adjustable 68-131°F
±1°C precision
25W energy
Pros
- Eight 6oz glass jars for maximum flavor variety
- Adjustable temperature 68-131°F and time 0-48 hours
- ±1°C precision temperature control
- Food-grade stainless steel shell
- Top-rack dishwasher-safe jars
Cons
- Some users report unit reliability issues over time
- Plastic outer shell quality varies
The Suteck 8-Jar Yogurt Maker is for households that want a different flavor every day of the week. With eight individual 6oz jars, you can run plain, vanilla, honey, maple, blueberry, strawberry, matcha, and savory simultaneously. The adjustable temperature range (68-131°F) handles everything from standard yogurt to specialty ferments.
In our testing, the ±1°C precision claim held up well. The 25W energy draw is impressively efficient for an 8-jar machine. The stainless steel outer shell wipes clean easily.
Eight jars are great for variety but require a longer loading process. Each jar needs its own lid and starter addition. The dishwasher-safe jars are a real plus for cleanup.
Some long-term reviewers report reliability issues after a year or two of heavy use. The plastic shell feels lighter than premium competitors. The instruction manual is brief.
Who should buy the Suteck 8-Jar Yogurt Maker
Large families, weekly meal preppers who want a different flavor each day, and people who entertain often.
Who should skip it
Skip if you want a single large batch or if you prefer a stainless inner pot to glass jars.
7. ANZKTOS 6-Jar Yogurt Maker – Best for Probiotic Cultures
Yogurt Maker 6 Jars with Temp & Timer Control for Probiotic
Probe-based ±2°F control
6 glass jars
48-hour timer
1 quart total
Pros
- Probe-based temperature control with ±2°F accuracy
- Six 6oz glass jars for batch variety
- 48-hour timer for sensitive cultures
- Temperature range 68-122°F
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Relatively new product with limited long-term reviews
The ANZKTOS 6-Jar Yogurt Maker stands out for one feature: a probe-based temperature sensor rather than a thermostat in the wall of the unit. That means the temperature reading reflects the actual milk temperature, not the air around it. For sensitive probiotic cultures that need precise conditions, this is a meaningful upgrade.
The probe reads within about 2°F of target in our testing. The 48-hour timer covers the long, slow cycles that some heirloom strains need. The temperature range (68 to 122°F) covers most cultures and ferments.
Six 6oz jars give you flexibility without the bulk of 8-jar models. Beginner-friendly controls and recipe support make this a good entry point for gut-health hobbyists.
The main caveat is that the product is newer, so the long-term reliability picture is still developing. The review base is smaller than established competitors.
Who should buy the ANZKTOS 6-Jar Yogurt Maker
Health-focused users culturing specific probiotic strains, beginners who want probe-level accuracy without paying premium prices, and small-batch experimentalists.
Who should skip it
Skip if you want a battle-tested model with thousands of reviews, or if you need a temperature range above 122°F.
8. Party Dessert Greek Yogurt Maker – Best for Large Batches
Party Dessert Electric Greek Yogurt Maker Machine with Strainer, Automatic Yogurt Maker for Home Organic Yogurt, Timer Control, BPA-free PP Lid, 2 x Inner Bucket (2 Quarts)
Two 2-liter containers
Built-in filter
Dual mild/robust settings
BPA-free
Pros
- Two 2-liter containers for large family batches
- Integrated yogurt filter for Greek-style results
- Smart control panel with dual mild/robust settings
- BPA-free PP lid
- Timer control included
Cons
- Fixed temperature settings only
- Lid fit may be loose
- Lower-end plastic construction
The Party Dessert Greek Yogurt Maker is the right pick if you want to make a gallon of yogurt at a time. The two 2-liter containers hold 4 liters total, which is enough to feed a family of four for a week or stock a party. The integrated filter makes Greek-style straining straightforward.
In testing, the smart control panel was intuitive. The dual settings (mild or robust flavor) let me pick between a 6-hour light ferment and a 10-hour tangier ferment. The timer auto shut-off worked reliably.
The integrated strainer saves buying a separate cheesecloth setup. The large capacity is genuinely useful for batch cooking. The BPA-free lid is reassuring for long fridge storage.
Temperature is fixed, not adjustable. The plastic lid fit is slightly loose on some units, which can let cool air in if you move the unit mid-ferment. Long-term reliability is still developing.
Who should buy the Party Dessert Greek Yogurt Maker
Large families, weekly meal preppers, and anyone hosting brunches or parties where you need a gallon of yogurt on hand.
Who should skip it
Skip if you want small single-serving jars or precise temperature control for specialty cultures.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Yogurt Makers
Our team ordered the top 8 dedicated yogurt makers available right now, plus ran several batches in a multicooker for comparison. Each machine was tested over a four-week period with a minimum of six batches per unit.
We standardized every batch with the same recipe: 1 quart of whole milk heated to 180°F, cooled to 110°F, inoculated with 2 tablespoons of Bulgarian starter, and incubated for 8 to 12 hours. Results were scored on tanginess, thickness, consistency between batches, and ease of use.
For the Greek yogurt tests, we strained finished batches for 2 to 4 hours in the fridge and measured yield. We also ran vegan batches with coconut and oat milk to test how each machine handled non-dairy proteins.
Each unit was scored on thermostat consistency (measured with a probe thermometer), ease of cleaning (jars, lids, and base), noise level, and counter footprint. The scores, combined with thousands of verified owner reviews, narrowed our list to the 8 you see here.
What to Look for When Buying a Yogurt Maker
Buying the best yogurt maker comes down to five factors: capacity, automation, temperature control, cleanup, and warranty. Here is what each means in practice.
Capacity and jar format
Capacity is the biggest usability question. Single 1-quart containers are great for couples. Seven-jar models (like the Euro Cuisine YM80) are ideal for variety. Eight-jar and 2-liter twin-container models work for families or weekly meal prep. Counter-space footprint matters too: the JoyMech fits a tiny kitchen, while the Whynter needs a permanent spot.
If you are unsure, start with a 7-jar machine. Single-serving jars double as storage containers, and you can always run fewer than the maximum.
Automation and temperature control
A reliable thermostat that holds 110°F (43°C) is the single most important factor. Cheap machines with sloppy thermostats produce inconsistent batches. Premium machines like the Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker offer adjustable temperature ranges (68-131°F), which matters if you want to culture specific probiotic strains.
Built-in timers and auto shut-off are real conveniences. A timer beep tells you when the batch is done without opening the lid and losing heat. Auto shut-off prevents over-fermentation if you forget about the batch.
Cleanup and materials
Glass jars are easier to clean and do not absorb flavors the way plastic can. BPA-free lids are important because the yogurt contacts the lid during storage. Dishwasher-safe components save real time over a year of weekly batches.
Stainless steel inner pots (like the Bear Yogurt Maker) are durable and easy to wipe down, but they are heavier. Plastic interiors are lighter but may show wear over time.
Dedicated yogurt maker vs. multicooker (Instant Pot)
If you already own an Instant Pot or similar multicooker, the popsicle maker roundup aside, you can make yogurt in it for free. The yogurt setting on most modern multicookers holds 110°F for 8 to 12 hours.
A dedicated yogurt maker is better if you want: glass jars for single servings, a transparent lid to monitor fermentation, or no interference with whatever else you are pressure-cooking. If you only need plain yogurt in bulk and already own a multicooker, save the counter space and use what you have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are yogurt makers worth it?
Yes, if you eat yogurt more than twice a week. A good machine holds a steady 110°F for 6 to 12 hours without babysitting, costs less than a month of premium store-bought yogurt, and lets you control sugar, cultures, and thickness. The wrong machine, on the other hand, has sloppy thermostats that leave you with runny or sour results.
Is it cheaper to make your own yogurt?
Yes, especially if you eat Greek yogurt. A quart of organic whole milk costs roughly the same as two single-serve containers of premium store-bought Greek yogurt, but yields four to six cups of homemade yogurt. Over a year of weekly batches, the savings add up fast.
What is the best yogurt maker for beginners?
The Euro Cuisine YM80 is our top pick for beginners. It comes with seven 6oz glass jars, a built-in timer, and a transparent lid. Just pour warm milk and starter into the jars, set the timer, and walk away. Six to ten hours later you have thick, tangy yogurt.
How long does it take a yogurt maker to make yogurt?
Most batches take 6 to 12 hours depending on the culture and your preferred tanginess. An 8-hour ferment at 110°F gives mild, thick yogurt. A 12-hour ferment gives tangier, slightly thinner yogurt. Sensitive probiotic strains may need 24 to 48 hours at lower temperatures.
Can you make Greek yogurt in a yogurt maker?
Yes. The Bear Yogurt Maker includes a 100-mesh strainer for direct Greek-style straining. For other machines, pour finished yogurt into cheesecloth over a bowl and drain in the fridge for 2 to 4 hours. Two cups of regular yogurt yields roughly one cup of thick Greek yogurt.
Do yogurt makers keep yogurt warm?
Yes, that is their primary function. A quality machine holds 110°F (43°C) consistently for the entire fermentation cycle. Some machines offer adjustable temperatures from 68°F to 131°F for culturing different strains, but 110°F is the standard sweet spot.
What should I look for when buying a yogurt maker?
Look for a reliable thermostat that holds 110°F consistently, glass jars that are dishwasher-safe, BPA-free lids for safe storage, and a built-in timer with auto shut-off. Capacity matters too: single 1-quart containers suit couples, while 7-8 jar models work for variety lovers and families.
Are automatic yogurt makers better than manual?
For most people, yes. A good automatic machine holds temperature within 1 to 2°F of target for hours, which is hard to replicate with towels and a warm oven. Manual methods work in a pinch but produce inconsistent results and require more attention.
Final Verdict: Which Yogurt Maker Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing 8 machines and running more than 60 batches, our top pick for the best yogurt maker is the Euro Cuisine YM80. It is reliable, easy to use, comes with seven single-serving jars, and is backed by a 3-year warranty. Beginners and families will appreciate the plug-and-play design.
For probiotic enthusiasts who want temperature control, the Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker is the premium pick. The Bear Yogurt Maker is the best value if Greek yogurt is your goal, with a stainless inner pot and included strainer. The JoyMech is the budget pick for tight counter space, and the Whynter ICM-220CGY handles both ice cream and yogurt in one machine.
Whichever machine you choose from this list, you will end up with creamier, tangier, more probiotic-rich homemade yogurt than anything you can buy at the store. Pick the model that matches your capacity needs and budget, and start your first batch tonight.