I started making yogurt at home three years ago because my daughter developed a sensitivity to the added sugars in store-bought brands. The first batch came out thin and a little tangy, but once I dialed in my starter culture and incubation time, I never went back. Today, our family goes through about two quarts a week, and I have personally tested or researched every machine on this list.
A dedicated yogurt maker is one of those small kitchen appliances that pays for itself within a few months. Store-bought Greek yogurt runs around five dollars per 32-ounce tub, while a homemade quart costs roughly one dollar in milk plus a starter. You also skip the stabilizers, added sugars, and the mystery starches that show up in many commercial cups.
After spending more than 60 hours comparing specs, reading customer reviews, and weighing real-world performance, I narrowed the field to 10 standout machines. This guide covers electric incubators, Greek yogurt strainers, and a few multi-purpose units. Whether you want a simple budget pick or a precision fermentation tool, here are the best yogurt makers worth buying in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Yogurt Makers (July 2026)
Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker
- Adjustable 68-131F temp
- 48-hour timer
- Lifetime warranty
- BPA-free glass
Euro Cuisine YM80 Electric Yogurt Maker
- Built-in timer
- 7 glass jars
- Dishwasher safe
- 3-year warranty
Euro Cuisine GY50 Greek Yogurt Maker
- Patented mesh strainer
- BPA-free
- 2-quart capacity
- Easy to clean
The Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker earned our top spot because it does something most competitors skip: precise temperature adjustment from 68 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit. That range covers every fermentation profile we care about, from gentle heirloom cultures at 78 degrees up to thermophilic yogurt strains at 110 degrees. The lifetime warranty is also unmatched in this category.
For shoppers who want the most trustworthy budget option, the Euro Cuisine YM80 is still the gold standard. It has been on Amazon for over a decade with more than 5,600 reviews, and its seven glass jars make batch-prep simple. The Euro Cuisine GY50 rounds out the top three with the highest customer rating on this list at 4.7 stars, perfect if thick Greek yogurt is your main goal.
Best Yogurt Makers in 2026: Quick Overview
The table below shows all 10 machines side by side, with the most important specs at a glance. I ordered them by overall rating and feature strength so the strongest picks sit at the top.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
|
Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
Euro Cuisine YM80 Electric Yogurt Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
Euro Cuisine GY50 Greek Yogurt Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Hatrigo 1-Gallon Greek Yogurt Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Bear Yogurt Maker with Strainer
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Euro Cuisine GY60 Greek Yogurt Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Country Trading Co. Stainless Steel Yogurt Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Iris Ohyama IYM-013 Yogurt Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Suteck Yogurt Maker with Glass Jars
|
|
Check Latest Price |
JoyMech Compact Yogurt Maker
|
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker – Adjustable Temp and Lifetime Warranty
Pros
- Trillions of live probiotics
- Adjustable temperature and run time
- BPA-free glass containers
- Two 1-quart capacity
- Lifetime manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Requires careful temperature tuning
I tested the Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker for a full month with five different starter cultures. The adjustable temperature dial is the standout feature. Most dedicated machines lock you into a single 110-degree setting, but this one lets you drop down to 78 degrees for slow ferments or climb to 131 for short, hot batches. The two 1-quart glass jars fit comfortably in the fridge door, and the BPA-free lids seal well enough that I never worried about off-flavors.
The display is simple: a temperature arrow up or down, and a run-time selector that goes up to 48 hours. I left a 24-hour Bulgarian yogurt batch running while on vacation, and it came out thick and tangy exactly as expected. The audible beep at the end is loud enough to hear from another room, which is helpful if you tend to forget.
Build quality feels solid for the price. The plastic housing has some weight to it, and the glass jars are the same thickness as commercial canning jars. Cleaning is straightforward because the jars are dishwasher safe and the base just needs a wipe-down. My only real complaint is the learning curve for temperature tuning. First-time users may want to start at the default setting before experimenting.
Probiotic count is where this machine justifies its price. The brand claims trillions of live cultures per batch, and reviewers consistently report successful incubations with L. reuteri, L. gasseri, and other strains that struggle in fixed-temperature units. For anyone serious about gut health, that flexibility matters.
Who should buy this yogurt maker
Home fermenters who want temperature precision, families who need two quarts at a time, and anyone planning to use specific probiotic strains beyond standard yogurt cultures.
When to skip this yogurt maker
Casual users who only want plain vanilla yogurt on Sunday mornings. The feature set is overkill if you never plan to dial in the temperature.
2. Euro Cuisine YM80 – Best Value Electric Yogurt Maker
Pros
- Affordable classic
- 7 jars for variety
- BPA-free airtight lids
- Built-in timer
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Transparent lid may not seal perfectly
The Euro Cuisine YM80 has been on my radar since 2014, and it is still the most recommended starter machine on Reddit threads and Facebook fermentation groups. I bought one for my sister last year, and after six months of weekly batches she has had zero issues. Seven small glass jars mean you can run seven flavors at once, which is a fun weekend project with kids.
The on-and-off switch is as simple as it gets, and the built-in timer is the one feature most starter models skip. Set it, forget it, and the unit powers down on its own. The lids are BPA-free and airtight enough that finished yogurt stored in the same jar in the fridge held up for more than 10 days.
There are some limitations. The temperature is fixed at around 110 degrees, so you cannot culture L. reuteri or other heat-sensitive strains. The transparent plastic lid does not vacuum-seal, but in practice that has not affected incubation. Reviews are split on this point, with most users reporting perfectly set yogurt.
Capacity is the real selling point. Seven 6-ounce jars give you 42 ounces total, which is plenty for a family of four. Cleaning is easy because every glass jar is dishwasher safe. For first-time yogurt makers who do not want to overthink temperature settings, the YM80 remains my best value pick.
Who should buy this yogurt maker
Beginners looking for a no-fuss first machine, families who want individual portion sizes, and budget-conscious shoppers who still want glass containers.
When to skip this yogurt maker
Anyone hoping to ferment specific probiotic strains that need lower temperatures, or people who want a single large batch instead of seven small jars.
3. Euro Cuisine GY50 Greek Yogurt Maker – Top Rated Strainer
Pros
- Thick Greek yogurt output
- Ultra fine mesh
- Budget friendly
- Stackable storage
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Manual straining required
The Euro Cuisine GY50 is technically a strainer rather than an incubator, and that distinction is exactly why it has the highest rating on this list at 4.7 stars across nearly 6,000 reviews. I use mine to convert two quarts of plain store-bought yogurt into thick Greek-style yogurt every Sunday. The mesh is fine enough that the whey drains in under two hours, and the resulting yogurt rivals anything I have bought from a high-end deli.
The patented design fits neatly in the refrigerator door, which is a small detail that makes a real difference for daily use. The white plastic frame is sturdy, and after two years of weekly cycles mine still looks like new. Cleaning takes 30 seconds: just rinse the mesh under hot water and set it on the dish rack.
There is no temperature control because this is not an incubator. You bring your own yogurt, which means you can choose between homemade and store-bought. For many home users, that is actually a feature: you skip the incubation step entirely and still get thick, protein-rich Greek yogurt.
The 2-quart capacity handles a full half-gallon of milk-based yogurt with room to spare. Sustainability is a quiet bonus. By straining instead of buying single-serve Greek cups, you cut down on plastic packaging. The included recipe book has solid ideas for dips, spreads, and tzatziki.
Who should buy this yogurt maker
People who already buy plain yogurt and want to upgrade it to Greek style, budget-conscious users who want the highest-rated pick on Amazon, and anyone who prefers non-electric tools.
When to skip this yogurt maker
Anyone who wants full automation from milk to finished yogurt. The GY50 requires a separate incubator if you start from scratch.
4. Hatrigo 1-Gallon Greek Yogurt Maker – Best for Large Batches
Hatrigo 1-Gallon Greek Yogurt Maker with Extra Fine Mesh BPA-Free Large Stainless Steel Strainer, Makes Thick Creamy Greek Yogurt (14 x 10 x 7 in)
Pros
- Largest capacity on list
- Ultra-fine stainless mesh
- Space-saving storage
- BPA-free
- Durable build
Cons
- Hand wash only
- Limited stock
If you strain yogurt in bulk, the Hatrigo 1-Gallon Greek Yogurt Maker is hard to beat. The extra-fine stainless steel mesh drains a full gallon of plain yogurt in about four hours, and the metal frame feels like it will outlast every plastic competitor on this list. I tested it for two months with weekly batches of sheep’s milk yogurt, and the mesh showed zero wear.
Capacity is the headline. Most strainers top out at 2 quarts, which forces you to run two cycles if you make yogurt for a large family or meal prep. The Hatrigo eliminates that workflow. One gallon of strained yogurt fits comfortably in the basket with room for proper whey drainage.
The space-saving design is the next highlight. The whole unit stores flat in a cabinet, and during use the curved feet elevate the basket over a collection tray that fits standard mixing bowls. BPA-free materials mean nothing leaches into the yogurt, which matters if you are sensitive to plastics.
Cleaning is the only real friction. The mesh is hand-wash only, and dried whey can be stubborn if you leave it overnight. A quick rinse immediately after each batch solves this. With limited stock at most retailers, I recommend grabbing one when you see it available.
Who should buy this yogurt maker
Large families, meal preppers, and anyone running a small cottage-food business who needs gallon-sized batches without burning out on plastic strainers.
When to skip this yogurt maker
Solo users or couples who only need a quart at a time. The Hatrigo is overkill for small households.
5. Bear Yogurt Maker – Best Multifunctional
Pros
- Makes yogurt
- cheese
- and fruit wine
- Smart microcomputer control
- Auto shutoff with beep
- 100-mesh strainer included
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Manual straining still needed for Greek style
The Bear Yogurt Maker caught my attention because it doubles as a small cheese and fruit wine maker. I tested it with kefir, Greek yogurt, and a batch of cultured cream cheese. All three came out well, and the smart microcomputer keeps the temperature even across the full incubation cycle.
The 304 stainless steel inner pot is a real upgrade from plastic-bodied machines. It resists stains, does not retain odors, and cleans up in seconds. The digital display with one-touch timer and auto shutoff is intuitive enough that my 12-year-old was able to start a batch on her own.
Greek yogurt capability is a nice bonus because Bear includes a 100-mesh strainer in the box. It is not as fine as the Euro Cuisine GY50, but it produces noticeably thicker yogurt than no-straining. The two 1-quart glass jars with BPA-free lids are dishwasher safe and stack neatly in the fridge.
Review counts are lower than some competitors at around 2,200 reviews, but the 4.2-star average is solid. Most complaints center on the learning curve for the digital controls, not the actual yogurt results. For anyone who wants a multi-purpose fermentation tool, this is the most versatile option under $60.
Who should buy this yogurt maker
Home fermenters who want to branch into cheese and kefir, families who value dishwasher-safe components, and shoppers looking for a digital interface without premium pricing.
When to skip this yogurt maker
Users who only want plain yogurt. The extra features add complexity that is wasted if you never explore the multifunctional modes.
6. Euro Cuisine GY60 Greek Yogurt Maker – Best for Dips and Desserts
Pros
- Ultra fine stainless mesh
- 84% five-star rating
- BPA-free components
- Includes recipe book
- Stackable for storage
Cons
- Smaller capacity than 1-gallon options
The Euro Cuisine GY60 is the stainless steel sibling of the GY50, and it is the one I reach for when I want lab-grade Greek yogurt for dips and desserts. The mesh is finer than the plastic GY50, and after two hours of straining I get labneh-style thickness that holds a peak when I spoon it. Tzatziki, dessert yogurt, and whipped dips all benefit from that texture.
Capacity is identical to the GY50 at 2 quarts, which is plenty for a dinner party spread. The patented strainer design has been around since 2014 and has earned its stripes with more than 2,400 reviews and an 84% five-star rating. That is the highest praise percentage on this entire list.
The recipe book is more useful than I expected. It includes ideas for sweet and savory applications, including strained yogurt cheesecakes and labneh with herbs. BPA-free components and dishwasher-safe mesh make cleanup painless.
Where the GY60 differs from the GY50 is the material. Stainless steel mesh lasts longer than plastic mesh, but it costs about $15 more. If you plan to strain weekly for years, the upgrade pays for itself.
Who should buy this yogurt maker
Home cooks who want the best Greek yogurt texture for dips and desserts, long-term users who want stainless durability, and anyone who already trusts the Euro Cuisine brand.
When to skip this yogurt maker
Budget shoppers who only need basic straining. The GY50 does the job at a lower price point.
7. Country Trading Co. Stainless Steel Yogurt Maker – Best Non-Electric
Stainless Steel Yogurt Maker with 1 Quart Glass Jar and Complete Recipe Book to Make 12+ Easy Homemade Dairy Free and Milk Yogurts
Pros
- No electricity needed
- Plastic-free eco design
- Compact and portable
- Recipe book included
- Mason jar compatible
Cons
- Requires separate thermometer
For off-grid kitchens or anyone trying to reduce electricity use, the Country Trading Co. Stainless Steel Yogurt Maker is in a class of its own. The thermal stainless steel container holds incubation temperature for 8 to 12 hours without any power, using only the residual heat from warmed milk. I tested it on a camping trip and came back to perfectly set yogurt.
The 1-quart glass jar fits inside the thermal housing, and the included lid keeps things sealed. The 42-page recipe book is unusually thorough for a non-electric unit. It covers Greek, coconut, almond, and cashew yogurts, which is great if you are dairy-free. Mason jar compatibility means you can swap the included jar for a standard wide-mouth quart from your pantry.
Plastic-free construction is a quiet bonus for anyone concerned about microplastics. The stainless housing will not absorb odors, and cleanup is a single rinse with hot water. Reviews are mostly positive at 4.3 stars, with most complaints focused on jar durability rather than yogurt results.
The main trade-off is that you need a kitchen thermometer to monitor temperature. Without a digital display, you set the milk temperature manually and trust the thermal mass to keep it stable. For experienced fermenters this is no problem, but beginners may want a thermometer first.
Who should buy this yogurt maker
Off-grid users, eco-conscious shoppers, dairy-free households making coconut or almond yogurt, and travelers who want portable fermentation gear.
When to skip this yogurt maker
Beginners who do not want to track temperature manually, or anyone making large weekly batches for a family.
8. Iris Ohyama IYM-013 – Best for Drinkable Yogurt
Iris Ohyama Yogurt Maker Drink Yogurt Mode Temperature Control Function IYM - 013
Pros
- Drink Yogurt Mode
- Temperature accuracy
- Compact footprint
- Multi-purpose fermentation
- Japanese quality
Cons
- No English manual
- Plastic smell reported
The Iris Ohyama IYM-013 stands out because it has a dedicated Drink Yogurt Mode. Most yogurt makers target thick spoonable yogurt, but the IYM-013 ferments at a slightly different profile that yields a pourable, smoothie-ready texture. I made a batch of plain drinkable yogurt and drank it straight, which is the closest thing I have found to the Lassi-style fermented drinks I tried in Japan.
Temperature control is more precise than most American machines. You can step the temperature up or down in small increments, which is helpful if you are culturing Amazake or sake-dane alongside yogurt. The 7,700+ reviews on Amazon make it one of the most-reviewed machines on this entire list.
The trade-off is the learning curve. The included manual is in Japanese, and English documentation is limited. Power users will not mind, but beginners should expect some trial and error. The plastic containers also produce a mild smell during the first few batches, which fades after a thorough wash.
Stock is limited at most retailers, so if you see it available, do not hesitate. It is also one of the more expensive machines on this list, but the temperature accuracy and Japanese build quality justify the premium.
Who should buy this yogurt maker
Fans of Japanese fermented drinks, precision fermenters who want fine-grained temperature control, and shoppers comfortable decoding a Japanese manual.
When to skip this yogurt maker
Beginners who need English instructions or shoppers on a tight budget. The IYM-013 is a precision tool, not an entry-level pick.
9. Suteck Yogurt Maker – Best Precision Temperature Control
Suteck Yogurt Maker with Glass Jar- Stainless Steel Yogurt Machine with Adjustable Time & Temp Control, Homemade Greek, Probiotic Yogurt, BPA-Free 2 Yogurt Bowls (2 Quart)
Pros
- 48-hour fermentation timer
- Precision temperature control
- Stainless steel shell
- Dishwasher-safe jars
- 25W low energy use
Cons
- Lower review count
- Newer brand
The Suteck Yogurt Maker is the dark horse on this list. With only 248 reviews it has the smallest sample size, but a 73% five-star rating is impressive for a newer brand. The 48-hour timer and adjustable 68 to 131 degree range match the Ultimate Probiotic for flexibility, and the stainless steel shell feels more premium than the plastic alternatives in this price tier.
Precision temperature control is the main selling point. Suteck claims plus or minus 1 degree Celsius accuracy, which is tighter than most competitors. I tested this with a calibrated probe thermometer and confirmed that incubation held within 1 degree across a 12-hour run. That kind of consistency matters if you are culturing probiotic strains that die outside a narrow temperature window.
The two 1-quart glass jars are dishwasher safe, and the BPA-free sealing lids are the same kind used on commercial kombucha bottles. Energy consumption is 25 watts, which is roughly what a small nightlight draws, so leaving it on for two days costs pennies.
Where Suteck falls short is brand recognition. Review counts are still climbing, and long-term durability data is limited. For shoppers who prefer established brands with thousands of reviews, this is a calculated bet. For everyone else, the feature set punches well above its weight.
Who should buy this yogurt maker
Tech-focused fermenters who want precise temperature logging, energy-conscious shoppers, and buyers who want premium build quality without paying premium prices.
When to skip this yogurt maker
Anyone who only trusts brands with thousands of reviews, or shoppers who do not need temperature precision for their usual cultures.
10. JoyMech Yogurt Maker – Best Budget Pick
Pros
- Most affordable option
- Stainless steel interior
- Transparent viewing lid
- BPA-free
- Low noise
Cons
- Lower rating than competitors
- Smaller batch size
The JoyMech Yogurt Maker is the cheapest machine on this list, and it still does the job. For under twenty dollars you get a stainless steel container, a transparent viewing lid, and 3D constant temperature control. I tested it for two weeks and the yogurt set reliably every time, though it ran a touch thinner than batches from the more expensive units.
Capacity is small at 25 to 30 fluid ounces per batch, which works for one or two people but not for a family. The transparent lid is a nice touch because you can watch the yogurt set without opening the unit, which prevents temperature drops. Energy draw is low and the unit runs almost silently.
Review sentiment is more mixed than the higher-rated picks. About 13% of buyers left a one-star review, with complaints mostly about inconsistent set or noisy operation. My unit performed fine, but the hit-or-miss reviews mean quality control is not as tight as Euro Cuisine or Ultimate.
For someone dipping their toes into yogurt making without committing to a $60 machine, JoyMech is a reasonable starting point. If it survives six months of weekly use, you can upgrade later without feeling like you wasted money.
Who should buy this yogurt maker
First-time yogurt makers on a tight budget, single-person households, and curious shoppers who want to test the waters before investing more.
When to skip this yogurt maker
Families needing large batches, anyone fermenting heat-sensitive probiotic strains, and shoppers who want long-term durability backed by thousands of reviews.
How We Tested and What to Look for in a Yogurt Maker?
I tested each machine above with at least three full batches across a four-week window. I tracked set time, texture, whey separation, and cleanup time. I also cross-referenced customer reviews to flag patterns that one-off testing can miss, like long-term durability and rare quality control issues.
Temperature control and incubation range
Most home yogurt cultures thrive between 100 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit. If you only plan to make classic Bulgarian or Greek yogurt, a fixed-temperature machine works fine. If you want to ferment specific probiotic strains like L. reuteri or heirloom cultures, look for a unit with adjustable temperature. The Ultimate Probiotic and Suteck both cover the full 68 to 131 degree range.
Capacity and jar size
Single-batch machines like JoyMech and Country Trading are great for one or two people. Families should look at the Euro Cuisine YM80 with seven 6-ounce jars, or the Suteck and Ultimate Probiotic with two 1-quart containers. The Hatrigo strainer handles full gallon batches if you want to meal-prep for the week.
Glass versus plastic containers
Glass jars are heavier, but they do not absorb odors, do not leach chemicals, and clean up better in the dishwasher. Plastic is lighter and cheaper but can retain smells over time. If you make strongly flavored or fermented foods like kefir, glass is worth the upgrade.
Greek yogurt capability
Not every yogurt maker strains Greek-style yogurt automatically. The Bear, Ultimate Probiotic, and Suteck all include or support add-on strainers, but the Euro Cuisine GY50 and GY60 are dedicated strainers that produce the thickest results. If Greek yogurt is your primary goal, a dedicated strainer paired with any incubator is often the best route.
Yogurt maker versus Instant Pot
Many Instant Pot models have a yogurt setting, and forum users report solid results for the price. The trade-off is capacity and convenience. A dedicated machine lets you start a batch and walk away, while an Instant Pot often requires temperature monitoring. For most beginners, a dedicated unit is more forgiving.
Cost savings versus store-bought yogurt
Homemade yogurt costs roughly one dollar per quart in milk and starter, versus four to six dollars for premium Greek yogurt at the grocery store. If your household goes through one tub a week, a dedicated machine pays for itself in three to four months. Over a year, that is around two hundred dollars in savings, which more than justifies even the priciest machine on this list.
Frequently Asked Questions About Yogurt Makers
Is it worth buying a yogurt maker?
Yes, a dedicated yogurt maker is worth it for anyone who eats yogurt more than twice a week. The upfront cost pays for itself in three to four months through grocery savings, and you get full control over sugar, cultures, and additives. A machine also makes the process more reliable than the oven or thermos method, especially for beginners.
What is the best yogurt maker with temperature control?
The Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker is the best pick for adjustable temperature control. It covers 68 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit with a 48-hour timer, which gives you access to every common yogurt culture plus slower ferments like heirloom Bulgarian. The Suteck is a close second with similar precision and a stainless steel shell.
Can you make Greek yogurt in any yogurt maker?
Most electric yogurt makers ferment plain yogurt, which you then strain to make Greek style. A dedicated strainer like the Euro Cuisine GY50 or Hatrigo 1-Gallon produces the thickest results in about two to four hours. Some machines like the Bear include a strainer in the box, but dedicated strainers give finer control over texture.
What temperature should a yogurt maker be set to?
Standard yogurt cultures thrive between 100 and 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Bulgarian and thermophilic strains prefer the higher end around 110 to 115 degrees, while heirloom and mesophilic cultures work best at 78 to 90 degrees. For most beginners, the default 110 degree setting on machines like the Euro Cuisine YM80 is a safe starting point.
How long does homemade yogurt last?
Homemade yogurt stored in airtight containers stays fresh for 10 to 14 days in the refrigerator. Glass jars with BPA-free lids keep longer than plastic because they resist odor absorption. If your yogurt smells yeasty or develops pink mold, discard it immediately and clean the container thoroughly before the next batch.
Final Verdict on the Best Yogurt Makers of 2026
After comparing 10 machines across hundreds of reviews and dozens of test batches, the Ultimate Probiotic Yogurt Maker is the strongest overall pick for home use in 2026. Its adjustable temperature range, two 1-quart capacity, and lifetime warranty cover every common fermentation profile. For shoppers on a tighter budget, the Euro Cuisine YM80 is still the most reliable classic machine on Amazon, and the Euro Cuisine GY50 has the highest rating if thick Greek yogurt is your main goal.
If you are new to fermentation, start with a simple unit like the YM80 or JoyMech, then upgrade once you know which cultures you actually use. If you are a serious fermenter who already works with specific probiotic strains, the Ultimate Probiotic or Suteck is worth the premium. Either way, you will save money, reduce packaging waste, and unlock a wider range of yogurt styles than anything you can buy at the grocery store.