Cryogenic cooling is a well-established and expanding technology. In the field of electric machines, it allows the construction of more efficient machines with a high power density. This paper addresses the main cooling technologies and their impact on cryogenic machine construction, providing perspective for their use in future electrical machines. Although cost and safety issues of cryogenic systems are still holding back the uptake of cryogenic electric motors and generators, research in this field should provide significant improvements and promote their use at different levels.