Handheld milk frother is a small device that is lightweight and easy to operate manually. It is usually powered by a battery and has a simple design. You insert the frother into the milk, turn it on, and in a few seconds you will have frothy milk with foam on top.
An electric milk frother is a machine that runs on electricity and has a more complicated design. It sits on a countertop and comes with a container you fill with milk. Once you switch it on, it automatically starts to froth the milk, a process that takes a few seconds. In contrast to handheld frothers, electric ones can produce hot or cold froth. On the other hand, it can also make light or thick foam, depending on the need.