Finding the best coffee machines depends on many factors. Of course, you need to have enough budget for it and the type of coffee you prefer. You can find different models that will give you a certain degree of control over the brewing process and the taste of the coffee.
Some machines produce an excellent espresso, while others handle foam quite well. Some models make a cup of coffee without touching the machine.
- DeLonghi Ecam44.660.B
- DeLonghi Ecam45.760.W
- Breville Bes870Xl Barista Express Espresso Machine
- PHILIPS Versuni Fully Automatic Bean Cup Espresso Coffee Machine With Milk Frother
- DeLonghi Ecp31.21|Pump Espresso Coffee Machine
- Morphy Richards Impresso Coffee-Making Machine
- COSTAR 20 Bar Espresso Coffee Machine with Steam Wand
- COSTAR Capsules & Coffee Powder 2-in-1 Espresso Machine
- Rossmann Espresso Coffee Maker
- NESCAFE E
Coffee Machine Types
First, there are two types of coffee machines: automatic and semi-automatic. As for the coffee preparation process, there are four further subcategories of coffee machines: capsule/single-dose, bean-to-cup, ground, and filter coffee machines.
Automatic coffee machines
These machines have preset coffee recipes and touch screens or buttons to select coffee recipes. These machines are easy to use, but you are limited in taste.
Pros
- These machines are designed for your convenience.
- Ideal for people who don’t have much experience making coffee.
- Most of the functions are automatic.
- Ready to use.
Cons
- You have no control over the coffee-making process.
Semi-automatic coffee machines
Semi-automatic coffee machines are designed to give you control over your final cup. You can change the pressure and temperature settings and even the coffee content of your shots. These machines are suitable for anyone who can make a cup of coffee. But making coffee with them is time-consuming.
Pros
- Complete control over your final cup and its result.
- You can change the temperature and water pressure.
- Suitable for people who know how to make coffee.
Cons
- The coffee making process is quite long.
- Not suitable for beginners.
Pod/Capsule Coffee Machines
These coffee makers come with ready-to-use coffee pods. If you don’t want to make a mess and don’t want to be stuck making coffee, this is the right choice.
However, you are also limited by the type and flavour the capsule or pod can produce. These capsules are difficult to recycle and can be very expensive.
Pros
- These machines are relatively compact.
- You can buy them cheaply.
- They simplify the coffee-making process.
- You can also try different flavours.
Cons
- These capsules create waste that is not environmentally friendly.
- You are limited to the flavours in these capsules.
Bean-to-cup coffee machines
These machines allow you to use coffee beans and place them directly into the bean hopper to be ground. The machine will then brew the coffee to your needs. If you are looking for the fresh coffee taste that a machine can produce, this is the type you are looking for. These machines allow you to brew different coffee types, and they come with other features. You can use a diversity of coffee beans with these machines.
Pros
- These machines can grind beans on demand.
- They can automate the entire process.
- You can use a variability of coffee beans.
- Some of these models also come with various customizable settings.
- Some of them can brew two different coffee drinks at the same time.
Cons
- These machines are expensive.
- Some machines are bulky.
- They are more prone to clogging.
- Sometimes, the squeaking noise can be unbearable.
Ground-coffee machines
These machines will look like the ones you often find in a coffee shop. These machines give you more control over the coffee-making process. Ground coffee machines are suitable for people who know how to make different types of coffee. They are not expensive, and their running costs are also low.
Pros
- You can use any ground coffee with a suitable grind level.
- Some can also use ESE coffee pods to avoid mess.
- Cheaper running costs than capsule coffee makers.
- You have more control over your final cup.
- You can make two different coffee drinks at the same time.
Cons
- The coffee-making process itself takes longer, depending on your experience.
- Requires more maintenance and manual use.
Filter coffee machines
There are three other types of drip coffee makers. A regular drip coffee machine can heat water and drip it onto ground coffee through a filter. Infuser drip coffee makers pre-wet the coffee and slowly pour water over the grounds. Grind-and-brew drip coffee makers immediately grind the coffee beans.
Pros
- These coffee makers can make an excellent cup of coffee.
- Some allow you to grind and brew for a fresh taste.
- They are available at different price points.
Cons
- They don’t come with any preset settings.
- There aren’t many customizable options available either.
Other Features to Consider
Frothing Milk
If you are a big fan of milky coffee drinks like caffe latte and cappuccinos, you will need this milk frother in your coffee maker. Some models have automatic frothing features, while others come with steam wands.
Memory Function
Some models come with a preset setting that you can use whenever you make coffee without setting it again. You will get the perfect drink every time.
Capacity
If you are a heavy coffee drinker, choose a machine with a water tank of at least 1.5 litres. This will undoubtedly save you from having to add water frequently.
Smart Control
Nowadays, some cars have intelligent controls, and you can attach them to your smartphone through an app. You can use your phone to control your vehicle and have a delicious cup of coffee.
Maintenance
Also, choose a machine that is easy to descale and clean. Some machines can even alert you when it’s time to clean.
Conclusion:
Coffee machines come in unlike types and styles. If you are a barista, you will prefer to control your cup of coffee and appreciate a semi-automatic machine. On the contrary, a workaholic would like to have an automatic device.
It would help you find the best coffee machines that fit your preferences and consumption patterns. You should also look for the best machine for the type of coffee it makes, according to your choice. And, of course, you should also consider your budget.