Best budget yogurt makers
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The Euro Cuisine YM80 is the best budget yogurt maker for most people, offering a simple yet reliable design that consistently produces great yogurt.
The Dash Greek Yogurt Maker is ideal for those who love thick, strained yogurt, while the Vivo Vita is great for making multiple individual servings at once.
Making your own yogurt at home is one of the easiest ways to save money and avoid added sugars and preservatives. A dedicated yogurt maker takes the guesswork out of temperature control, giving you consistent results every time. For budget buyers, the key is to find a machine that holds a steady temperature, is easy to clean, and comes with enough jars for your weekly intake. Below, we compare three top-rated affordable models that won’t break the bank but still deliver creamy, tangy yogurt with minimal fuss.
Euro Cuisine YM80
the do-it-all default
4.5out of 5The YM80 is a classic, no-frills yogurt maker that reliably turns milk into yogurt batch after batch. Its simple operation and generous capacity make it a perfect entry-level choice, though it lacks a timer or automatic shut-off.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →Dash Greek Yogurt Maker
strain-ready specialist
4.3out of 5Dash designed this machine specifically for Greek-style yogurt lovers. It includes a built-in strainer that makes achieving a thick, creamy texture effortless, but the smaller batch size and narrow jar shape can be limiting.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →Vivo Vita Yogurt Maker
portion-perfect designer
4.4out of 5The Vivo Vita stands out with its seven individual jars and clear viewing lid, making it easy to check fermentation progress. It’s a stylish and practical choice for those who like grab-and-go portions, though the glass jars are a bit delicate.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Euro Cuisine YM80 | 4.5 / 5 | $ | Anyone who wants a straightforward, affordable yogurt maker for making a week’s worth of y | Check price → |
| Runner-up | Dash Greek Yogurt Maker | 4.3 / 5 | $$ | Yogurt fans who primarily want thick, strained Greek yogurt and don’t mind making smaller | Check price → |
| Best value | Vivo Vita Yogurt Maker | 4.4 / 5 | $$ | People who enjoy portioned, ready-to-eat yogurt cups and want a visually appealing counter | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. Euro Cuisine YM80: the do-it-all default
Best overallThe YM80 is a classic, no-frills yogurt maker that reliably turns milk into yogurt batch after batch. Its simple operation and generous capacity make it a perfect entry-level choice, though it lacks a timer or automatic shut-off.
Pros
- Very easy to operate
Cons
- No timer or auto shut-off
- Bulky footprint on the counter
- Fermentation times can run long
Who it’s for
Anyone who wants a straightforward, affordable yogurt maker for making a week’s worth of yogurt at once.Who should skip it
You need programmable features like a timer or prefer a more compact, space-saving design.2. Dash Greek Yogurt Maker: strain-ready specialist
Runner-upDash designed this machine specifically for Greek-style yogurt lovers. It includes a built-in strainer that makes achieving a thick, creamy texture effortless, but the smaller batch size and narrow jar shape can be limiting.
Pros
- Built-in strainer for thick Greek yogurt
- Includes a recipe booklet
Cons
- Smaller capacity (only two jars)
- Jars are narrow and hard to clean by hand
- No timer or temperature settings
Who it’s for
Yogurt fans who primarily want thick, strained Greek yogurt and don’t mind making smaller batches.Who should skip it
You need to produce larger quantities of yogurt each week or prefer a machine that makes regular yogurt as well.3. Vivo Vita Yogurt Maker: portion-perfect designer
Best valueThe Vivo Vita stands out with its seven individual jars and clear viewing lid, making it easy to check fermentation progress. It’s a stylish and practical choice for those who like grab-and-go portions, though the glass jars are a bit delicate.
Pros
- Seven included glass jars with lids
- Transparent lid to monitor yogurt
- Quiet and consistent heating
Cons
- Jars are thin-walled and can break if handled
- No auto shut-off or timer
- The lid hinge feels a bit flimsy
Who it’s for
People who enjoy portioned, ready-to-eat yogurt cups and want a visually appealing countertop appliance.Who should skip it
You prefer a single large container for stirring in mix-ins or need a more rugged, travel-friendly design.Best for specific needs
Best for batch cooking on a budget
If you like to make a large amount of yogurt at once to last the whole week, the Euro Cuisine YM80 is your best bet. Its seven jars hold plenty of yogurt, and the simple, reliable design means you can set it and forget it overnight without fuss. It’s the ideal choice for families or anyone who goes through yogurt quickly. Our pick: Euro Cuisine YM80.
Best for Greek-style yogurt lovers
The Dash Greek Yogurt Maker includes a built-in strainer that removes whey automatically, giving you a thick, creamy texture without extra steps. It’s compact and easy to use, perfect for those who love strained yogurt but have limited counter space. Just note that it makes smaller batches than the other models here. Our pick: Dash Greek Yogurt Maker.
Best for individual servings
The Vivo Vita Yogurt Maker’s seven individual jars are perfect for portion control and on-the-go mornings. Each jar comes with its own lid, so you can grab one and go without disturbing the rest. It’s a great choice for singles, couples, or anyone who likes to mix different flavors in one batch. Our pick: Vivo Vita Yogurt Maker.
Our verdict
If you simply want a reliable, affordable yogurt maker that gets the job done without extra frills, the Euro Cuisine YM80 is our top recommendation. It’s great for making a week’s worth of plain yogurt, and you can always add your own toppings. For Greek-style fans, the Dash is a smart specialist pick, while the Vivo Vita is ideal if you prefer portioned cups. Whichever you choose, you’ll save money and enjoy fresher, tastier yogurt at home.