How to Choose the Best Coffee Machines
There's a model that will meet your need regardless of whether you're looking to buy an espresso maker or a coffee pod brewer. Prices start at around PS50.
These brewers provide the convenience, consistency, and hands-off simplicity. These Brewers also score high in our Lab tests.
Manual
A manual machine is an excellent option for those who want to be in control. These machines let you manually operate a mechanical piston, which results in an exact amount of pressure and extraction. This kind of machine requires more expertise and experience to operate, however many coffee drinkers appreciate the effort.
These manual coffee machines are typically constructed of high-end materials that can be used for a long time without any major maintenance requirement. These machines come with a range of accessories like a portafilter, filter, measuring cup, tamper, and funnel. They can be used to make cappuccinos and other drinks that use ground or pod coffee. Some manual coffee machines have a steam arm that is used for milk-based drinks. Some have a nozzle which distributes water onto the grounds.
The majority of manual coffee makers boil the water in a separate kettle, and then pour it over the grounds within the brewing chamber. The user then presses or raises a lever to trigger pistons that force the hot water into the cup. This type of machine doesn't have the same precision or accuracy in temperature control as a fully automatic or semi-automatic coffee maker. You may need to play around to find the perfect espresso flavor.
Some manual coffee machines were created to be used at home. However most are used for hospitality businesses like hotels, restaurants, breakfast and bed and breakfast establishments. They are small and efficient, and take up little counter space. They are also cheaper than other models of machines, and they can easily be repaired or replaced.
These machines are usually made of durable materials like brass and chrome. Some are handmade and can add a touch elegance to your kitchen design. They are also generally easy to clean. Some are available in a range of colors that can be matched to the aesthetics of any kitchen. They are generally easier to use than a semi-automatic or fully automatic coffee machine and can make delicious, high-quality coffee.
Semiautomatic
Semi-automatic machines are a good compromise for espresso lovers who don't want control over all the variables involved in brewing the perfect shot. These machines begin automatizing certain steps in making espresso, including steaming milk and preinfusion. But, you'll have a variety of options to tailor your beverage to your individual preferences.
Breville is a brand known for its wide range of kitchen appliances. It is one of the top semi-automatic coffee makers on the market. The Infuser is a versatile model that allows you to make espresso, cappuccino, and lattes with the click of a button. The machine can also automatically pour the appropriate amount of water per drink and its built-in grinder automatically adjusts the grind size to accommodate different extraction levels and beans. The Infuser's slim, sleek design and easy-to-use controls makes it an ideal choice for those with a small counter space.
Another model that has been rated highly by Breville is the Dedica espresso machine. Its 15 bar pump is sufficient to get a good espresso shot, and its commercial construction is built to last. The Dedica comes with a removable milk tank and an ice-making tool that can be used for cappuccinos or lattes.
Super-automatics are a great option for a semi-automatic coffee maker. They provide even more convenience and can be operated without your involvement. These machines go one step above the standard automated machines by offering programmable coffee sizes, a system that automatically grinds beans, and often measuring and tamping them for you. These machines were able to score the highest in our Lab tests due to their all-in-one functionality and hands-off ease of use.
The Philips Dinamica is a super-automatic machine capable of doing everything. This model features a large touchscreen interface with 16 drinks to choose from such as cappuccino and latte. It grinds whole coffee beans to match your drink preference and can even store your preferred settings, so you don't have to choose the menu completely. The high-tech features of this machine include a detachable tank with an integrated test of water hardness and an AquaClean Filter that helps reduce scale and ensures that you always get the best cup of coffee.
Fully automatic
A fully automatic coffee machine gives you an excellent, smooth cup of coffee with the push of the button. It's a great choice for busy homes or offices and is able to brew espresso-based drinks and filter coffee. Many models also have automatic milk frothing, which lets you enjoy cafe style coffees such as cappuccino or Latte. Certain models let you make your drink of choice in advance. These machines are ideal for multitaskers, as you can continue working while the coffee is brewing.
They are also popular in commercial coffee shops, as they can make a variety of drinks at once. These are more expensive than semi-automatic models. However, the convenience provided by a fully automated coffee maker could be worth the extra expense for a few people.
The Mcilpoog WS203 Super-Automatic Espresso Machine and Coffee Maker is a top, highly configurable coffee machine that offers the same quality as a top cafe at home. The touchscreen display makes it easy to use. It only takes three steps to make coffee. It comes with a movable steel burr grinder, as well as adjustable settings, so you can tailor your espresso to your personal preferences.
De'Longhi ECAM35020W Dinamica Automatic Coffee and Espresso Machine is a great option for busy households. The coffee maker boasts rapid heating up time, and comes with a variable burr grinder made of steel and a milk frother to prepare espresso-based drinks and coffee. It is also able to create a wide variety of coffee varieties such as iced and filter coffee.
This is an affordable and versatile Nespresso compatible machine that's ideal for a modern, well-equipped house. It has a large 1.7L tank and a coffee box capacity. It also comes with an extremely quiet and quick heating system that ensures the perfect coffee drink throughout the day. It is easy to use thanks to user profiles that automatically make sure that the drinks of each user are prioritized and are just a tap away.
Super-automatic
A step up from semi-automatic machines, these models grind and dose, take a shot and make your milk frothy at the touch of a button. They are the ultimate option for those who want to drink the wide variety of drinks and appreciate the convenience of not having to make them one at a go like in a manual or automatic model.
The Gaggia Velasca Prestige is a great example. It combines a high quality brewing machine with an automated milk frothing system to make the perfect cappuccino or latte. The programmability of this machine allows you to tailor it to your exact requirements and save your settings for next time. Many of these machines come with bypass dosers that allow you to use pre-ground beans instead of the beans that are in the bean hopper. This is a great feature for guests or if you need to switch from one type of coffee to another.
DeLonghi's Magnifica Evo fully automatic machine is also a top choice because of its versatility and ease of use. It offers seven one-touch recipe options that are easy to read color icons, from Espresso to Latte Macchiato. It also lets you save six profiles of users so that everyone can enjoy their favorite beverage brewed at the touch of an button. This machine also includes a ceramic burr grinder which is the best choice for longevity and performance.
Another Swiss-made model to consider is the Jura ENA 4. It is an elegant and minimalist design, a huge bean box and water tank capacity making it ideal for commercial use. It comes with a sophisticated coffee brewing system as well as the amazing Aroma G3 grinder. It gives you the best coffee and espresso you'll ever taste.
The Philips 3200 LatteGo has a slightly smaller build than the other super-automatic coffee machines on this list, yet can provide a top-quality cup of coffee. This machine can make up to 5000 cups before having to be descaled, which is perfect for homes with a busy schedule. It also has an integrated grinder that can be set to 13 settings.