How to Choose the Best Coffee Machines
There's a model for every need whether you're looking for an espresso maker or a coffee pod brewer. Prices start at PS50.
These brewers use pre-measured pods and offer convenience, consistency and hands-off ease of use. They also tend to be top performers in our Lab tests.
Manual
A manual machine is a good option for those who are looking to have control. They allow users to operate manually an operation that utilizes an electric piston. This creates an exact pressure and extraction. This kind of coffee machine requires a bit more experience and skill to operate than other kinds however, many coffee drinkers believe it is worth the effort.
These manual coffee machines are typically constructed of high-end materials and can last for many years without a major maintenance requirement. They also come with a variety of accessories, such as a portafilter and filter along with a measuring cup, tamper and funnel. They can be used with ground or pod coffee and they can create lattes, cappuccinos and macchiatos and much more. Some manual coffee machines feature traditional steam arms for milk-based drinks, while others feature a nozzle that spreads water across the grounds.
Most manual coffee machines use an additional kettle to warm water, which is then poured over the grounds inside the chamber for brewing. The user then raises or depresses the lever or hand to turn on a piston that forces the hot water through the grounds before it is poured into the cup below. This kind of coffee maker isn't as precise or precise in its temperature control as a semi-automatic or fully automatic coffee maker, so you may need to play with various techniques to find the ideal espresso flavor.
While some manual coffee machines are designed for home use, the majority are designed for hospitality businesses, such as hotels, restaurants as well as bed and breakfasts and farmhouses. They are usually small compact and efficient, taking up only a small amount of counter space. They are also cheaper than other models of machines and can easily be repaired or replaced.
These machines are typically made with durable materials, such as brass and chrome. Some are even handcrafted, and they can add a touch of elegance to the kitchen design. They are also generally easy to clean. They are also available in a wide range of colors and can match the style of your kitchen. They are generally simpler to use than a semi-automatic or fully automated coffee maker and can produce delicious, high-quality coffee.
Semiautomatic
Semi-automatic machines are a great alternative for those who don't want to control all the variables involved in brewing the perfect espresso. These machines begin automatizing some of the steps involved in making espresso, including steaming milk and preinfusion. But, you'll have the option of tailoring your drink to your personal preferences.
One of the best semi-automatic coffee makers that are available is from Breville, a brand known for its wide range of kitchen appliances. The Infuser is a multi-functional model that allows you to make cappuccino, espresso, and lattes at the touch of the button. The machine can also automatically pour the correct amount of water for each drink and its built-in burr grinder automatically adjusts the grind size to accommodate various extraction levels and beans. The Infuser is a great option for those with limited counter space because of its sleek, compact design. It also has simple controls.
The Dedica espresso machine is another top-rated model from Breville. The 15 bar pump will extract a great espresso shot. Its commercial design will last for years. The Dedica includes a movable milk tank as well as the frothing tool, which can be used for lattes or cappuccinos.
Super-automatics are a great option for a semi-automatic coffee maker. They offer even more convenience and are operated with no involvement. These machines are a step above standard automatics, offering programmable coffee sizes, automatically grinding beans, and often measuring and tamping for you. These machines scored the highest in our Lab Tests due to their all-in-one capabilities and ease of use.
The Philips Dinamica is a super-automatic machine that can handle everything. The Dinamica has a large touchscreen with 16 different drinks such as cappuccino and latte. It automatically grinds whole beans to match the drink you choose and even save your preferred settings so you can bypass the menu of choices completely. The advanced features of this machine include a removable tank with an integrated test for water hardness and an AquaClean filter that reduces scale and ensures that you always get the best cup of coffee.
Fully automated
A fully automated machine will make a rich and smooth cup of coffee with the click of the button. It's a great choice for busy homes or offices and can be used to brew both espresso-based drinks and filter coffee. Many models have automatic milk frothing that lets you enjoy cafe-style coffees like cappuccino or Latte. Some models allow you to make your drink of choice in advance. These machines are perfect for anyone who needs to multitask, as they allow you to continue working while you make your coffee.
They are also well-liked in coffee shops that are commercial as they can be used to brew multiple types of drinks simultaneously. These are more expensive than semi-automatic ones. However, the convenience provided by a fully automatic coffee maker may be worth the extra cost for a few people.
The Mcilpoog WS203 Super-Automatic Espresso Machine and Coffee Maker is a high-end, highly configurable coffee machine that provides the quality of a top cafe at home. It is simple to use, and comes with an LCD touch screen that makes making coffee as easy as just three steps. It comes with a steel burr grinder that can be adjusted and programmable settings so you can customize your coffee to meet your needs.
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 is equipped with an adjustable burr grinder in steel and an milk frother to prepare espresso-based drinks and coffee. It can also make a variety of coffee types, including filter and iced coffee.
This is a surprisingly versatile and affordable Nespresso-compatible machine that is ideal for the modern, well-equipped kitchen. It comes with a huge 1.7L tank and a coffee box capacity. It also features an extremely quiet and quick more info heating system to ensure an excellent coffee drink throughout the day. It is also incredibly simple to use, with profiles for users that automatically prioritize the drinks that are most liked by each user making them just a tap away.
Super-automatic
These models are a step above semi-automatic machines. They grind or dose, pull the shot, and then froth milk with a touch of the button. These machines are ideal for coffee drinkers who wish to drink a variety of drinks simultaneously and appreciate the convenience.
A great example is the Gaggia Velasca Prestige which combines a high-quality brewing machine with an automatic milk frothing mechanism to create the perfect cappuccino, lattes or macchiato. This machine is programmable, so you can modify it to suit your specific requirements and save the settings. Many of these machines come with a bypass doser that allows the use of pre-ground beans instead of the beans in the bean hopper. This is a fantastic feature for guests, or if you want to switch from one type of coffee to another.
The Magnifica Evo fully automated machine is also a favorite due to its versatility and user-friendly. It has seven one-touch recipes that have easy-to-read color icons, ranging from Espresso to Latte Macchiato. It also has the ability to save six user profiles so that everyone can have their own preferred beverage brewed at the click of the button. This machine includes a ceramic grinder that is the best option for durability and performance.
Another model made in Switzerland to think about is the Jura ENA 4. It features a sleek, minimal design and a large container for water and bean capacity, which makes it perfect for commercial use. It features a sophisticated grinder and brewing system called the Aroma G3. It gives you the finest espresso and coffee you'll ever have.
The Philips 3200 LatteGo has a slightly more compact build than some of the other super-automatic coffee machines on this list, but still manages to deliver a quality cup of coffee. The machine can produce up to 5000 coffee cups before it has to be descaled. It is ideal for busy households. It also includes an integrated burr grinder with 13 settings that allow plenty of room to personalize it.