Subminimal NanoFoamer Lithium – Microfoam without a Steam Wand
The Subminimal NanoFoamer Lithium textures warm milk into fine, glossy microfoam for cappuccino, flat white and latte art. Rechargeable battery, USB-C, two speeds.
Instead of simply stirring the milk, the patented impeller and NanoScreen system shears the air bubbles down to microscopic size. The Lithium version runs on a rechargeable battery and, according to Subminimal, delivers consistent torque regardless of the charge level. We are the official Swiss importer of Subminimal.
Features of the NanoFoamer Lithium
Results like a steam wand
Subminimal designed the NanoFoamer to create the same fluid, velvety texture as the steam wand of a commercial espresso machine.
Versatile texture
The NanoScreen you attach lets you choose the foam density, from a fine flat white to a thick latte. Two NanoScreens are included, Fine and Superfine. According to the manual, Superfine with short frothing gives thin foam, Superfine with long frothing gives medium foam and Fine with long frothing gives thick foam.
Splash-proof
The NanoFoamer is splash-proof to IPX-4. You rinse the shaft, impeller and NanoScreens under running water. According to the manual, do not submerge the handle; the device is not dishwasher-safe.
Robust build
Housing made of durable material, shaft and cap made of 304 stainless steel, designed for daily use.
Designed for servicing
Subminimal designs its components to be serviced rather than thrown away. According to the manual, the impeller made of food-grade POM is a replaceable part.
The details in everyday use
Two speeds, one button
One press starts the high setting, a second press switches to the low setting, a third turns it off. Four LEDs show the charge level during use and while charging.
Charging and storage
It charges via USB-C with any charger (5 V, 2 A); a full charge takes 4 to 5 hours. According to Subminimal, one charge lasts for months with daily use. The protective case is included.
How the microfoam is made
Attach the NanoScreen, dip the impeller at least 3.8 cm deep into the milk and start. Draw in air near the surface for 3 to 20 seconds, then go deeper and slightly to the side to swirl the milk until it turns glossy. Rinse right afterwards. It takes a few rounds until the routine feels natural.
At a Glance
| Function | Handheld milk frother with impeller and NanoScreen |
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| NanoScreens | Fine and Superfine (2 included) |
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| Battery | Lithium-ion 3.7 V, 1300 mAh (manual) or 1400 mAh (Subminimal website) |
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| Charging | USB-C, 5 V / 2 A, full charge 4–5 hours |
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| Speed | Two settings; 4000 rpm submerged (manual) or max. 3500 rpm (website specification) |
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| Dimensions | 234 × 35 × 35 mm |
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| Weight | 135 g (manual) or 137 g (website) |
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| Water protection | IPX-4 (splash-proof), not dishwasher-safe |
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| Materials | Impeller food-grade POM, NanoScreen mesh, shaft and cap 304 stainless steel |
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| In the box according to the manual | NanoFoamer Lithium, USB-C charging cable, 2 NanoScreens, protective case, certificate of authenticity |
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| Wall mount | Listed as included in the Subminimal specification, not listed in the manual's packing list |
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| Brand | Subminimal |
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Who it's made for
For anyone who makes milk drinks with microfoam at home and doesn't have or doesn't want to use a steam wand, whether the espresso comes from a portafilter machine, a manual lever machine such as those in the Flair Espresso collection, or another device. You'll find more frothers, such as the NanoFoamer Pro, in the Subminimal collection and among the milk frothers. Our advice tool shows you which machine suits your everyday routine.
Pouring latte art calls for a pitcher with a clean spout. For anyone who wants that affordable and precise: the Normcore Pitcher from the Normcore collection. If you're looking for a different spout or size, you'll find Rhino, La Marzocco and the FlowTip by Subminimal among the Barista milk pitchers.
If you're still looking for an espresso machine, you'll find the selection among the espresso machines; a free consultation appointment in the showroom, by phone or virtually is also possible. Our opinion is one of many.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the NanoFoamer Lithium and the NanoFoamer V2?
According to Subminimal, the V2 runs on two AA batteries, has one speed setting, and its performance depends on the battery voltage. The Lithium charges via USB-C, has two speeds and delivers consistent torque regardless of the charge level.
Which NanoScreen do I use for which foam?
According to the manual, Superfine with short frothing gives thin foam, Superfine with long frothing gives medium foam and Fine with long frothing gives thick foam.
Can I rinse the NanoFoamer under running water?
Yes. It is splash-proof to IPX-4. Rinse the shaft, impeller and NanoScreens; do not submerge the handle and do not put it in the dishwasher.
How long does a battery charge last?
According to Subminimal, one charge lasts for months with daily use. A full charge via USB-C takes 4 to 5 hours. Subminimal recommends recharging when 1 to 2 LEDs are still lit.
Can I see the NanoFoamer before buying?
Yes, you can see it live in our showrooms in Bern (Gerberngasse 44) and Zurich Oerlikon (Hagenholzstrasse 50b). If you order online, we deliver across Switzerland and to Liechtenstein in 2–4 working days. Click & Collect is available in Bern and Zurich.
Tip from the roastery: For milk drinks with microfoam, we roast Cozy Chocolate and Nutty Delight, both chocolatey and full-bodied. If you'd like even more body without acidity, reach for Very Nutty. For the curious who enjoy something fruity: Wild Peach. This is our recommendation, one of many.
