The Best Coffee Machines (2024)
Find the best espresso, bean-to-cup, filter and capsule coffee machines that have been tested at Batch Coffee Club and what to look for.
There are so many different types of coffee machines on the market today which makes choosing one for your kitchen a bit overwhelming.
Even after having worked in the coffee industry for over 10 years I find it hard to sift through all of the choices and slight variations in each coffee machine.
So after extensively researching coffee makers across the board and really digging deep into each ‘variation’ or ‘type’ I thought that I would create a sort of overview, so you can systematically work your way down and figure out the best coffee machine for your home.
So without any more small talk, let’s get on with the important stuff…
Best Coffee Machines at a Glance
Best espresso machine: Sage Barista Pro - Check Price Amazon
Best bean to cup espresso machine: De'Longhi Magnifica S - Check Price Amazon
Best coffee pod machine: Opal One - Check Price Shop Coffee
Best filter coffee machine: Sage Precision Brewer - Check Price Amazon
Best stovetop coffee machine: Bialetti Venus - Check Price Amazon
How we test Coffee Machines.
Batch Coffee Club is a team of coffee professionals with years of experience in the coffee industry. We receive both coffee and coffee equipment such as coffee machines to test, review and write about. Everything we write is our own words and we only recommend products and coffee that we love.
Why trust me?
How to choose a Coffee Machine?
Should I buy an Espresso Machine?
There is no doubt that espresso machines fit many people on the hunt for their perfect morning coffee at home. The domestic espresso machine has improved incredibly over the last few years.
I remember when I first started working as a barista and domestic espresso machines were nowhere near what a barista could produce on a commercial coffee machine.
Today however the gap is closing and home espresso makers are able to produce coffee very similar to a professional barista. Espresso machines are not for everyone though as they do take a little bit of practice to get into the realms of ‘coffee shop coffee’.
Pros: Make Lattes and other espresso based drinks - Cons: Can take practice to get right.
Type of coffee produced: Espresso, Americano, Latte, Cappuccino, Flat White.
Read more in our guide: How to Choose an Espresso Machine.
Should I buy a Bean to Cup coffee machine?
Bean to Cup coffee machines are many people's cup of tea (or cup of coffee). The combination of espresso based drinks such as lattes and flat whites, that everybody loves alongside the ease and sometimes just push-of-a-button coffee make Bean to Cup coffee machines pretty attractive.
Again, as with espresso machines, they have exponentially improved over the last few years and what used to be a sad vending machine style affair is now getting ever closer to the real deal.
However espresso coffee is a cruel mistress and has so many variables that can alter the taste of the shot, so until AI bean to cup coffee machines hit the market they still can’t quite hit the quality of espresso machines both commercial and domestic.
Pros: Coffee shop coffee at the push of a button - Cons: Expensive and quality not always there.
Type of coffee produced: Espresso, Americano, Latte, Cappuccino, Flat White.
Read more in our guide: How to Choose a Bean to Cup Coffee Machine.
Should I buy a Nespresso coffee machine?
The Nespresso machine or coffee pod machine has become a mainstay in the homes of millions of people throughout the world (maybe billions!).
They are the most popular type of home coffee machine and minus some pretty successful marketing campaigns from a certain sparkly eyed silver fox the ease and convenience of Nespresso machines is unparalleled. Nespresso machines have certainly improved over the years but will never be able to surpass the quality of coffee produced by a bean to cup or espresso machine.
This is mainly because Nespresso machines use coffee pods which have inside pre ground coffee that is more often than not pretty low standard. There are now many specialty coffee roasters that are producing their own coffee pods which are so much better than commercially produced ones, but the pre ground aspect will always set Nespresso machines back.
Pros: Super quick, super convenient - Cons: Limits to the quality of coffee.
Type of coffee produced: Nespresso shot.
Read more in our guide: How to Choose a Nespresso Coffee Machine.
Should I buy a Filter coffee machine?
Filter coffee machines are one of my favorite types of coffee makers. But they have their limits and they are not for everyone. Essentially an automated way to brew coffee through a paper or mesh filter, it’s the domestic version of what you see in a diner. Filter coffee machines are in a bit of a renaissance period and you will now see them in most third wave coffee shops serving up batch brew and if you’re the sort to try new coffee and want to experience the different flavours of specialty coffee then they could be your ticket.
They fit perfectly into the lives of black coffee drinkers (especially the sort that enjoy high quality specialty coffee) that don’t have a great deal of time to manually brew a black coffee whether that be as a cafetiere or pour over. If you are looking for a coffee machine that can produce something other than black coffee (lattes and the like) then a filter coffee maker is not for you.
Pros: High quality filter coffee - Cons: Only brews long black coffee.
Type of coffee produced: Filter coffee (black coffee).
Read more in our guide: How to Choose a Filter Coffee Machine.
Should I buy a Stovetop Coffee Maker?
A stovetop espresso maker is almost a culture of its own, it’s a classic and a part of coffee history. This little guy has been spitting out homemade espresso for decades and is still one of the most widely used coffee makers in the world. Its simplicity and the fact that it only needs a heat source makes it a go to for many home coffee brewers.
Unlike many other manual brew methods that we haven’t mentioned here the stovetop is slightly different as it produces a coffee that is fairly similar to what you can expect from a coffee machine: a short black coffee. So as a non electric coffee machine it does offer something different. There are limitations with stovetops though and the coffee, albeit short and black isn’t quite as concentrated and strong as espresso.
Pros: Easy use and Cheap - Cons: Almost espresso coffee but not quite.
Type of coffee produced: Short black coffee.
Read more in our guide: How to Choose a Stovetop Coffee Machine.
Should I buy a Coffee Machine with a milk frother?
Many coffee drinkers who regularly frequent their local cafe dream about serving themselves or their partner a homemade latte in bed instead of having to throw some clothes on and head out to buy one. If this is you, then the coffee machine will have to come with a milk frother.
Unlike just heating milk on the stove or in the microwave, a frother (or steamer) rapidly heats the jug of milk with hot steam and produces something called microfoam which gives the texture and ‘foaminess’ to the hot milk, this then produces the layers on a latte and cappuccino. However, just like purchasing an espresso machine be aware that this does require some skill and will take a while for you to be able to texture the milk the same way as your tattooed local barista.
Pros: Coffee shop coffees in bed - Cons: Requires you to learn a skill.
Type of coffee produced: Latte, Flat White, Cappuccino.
Read more in our guide: How to Choose a Coffee Machine with a Milk Frother.
The Best Espresso Machines
Here are our top 3 espresso machines that our team of coffee experts deemed the best around. To see the full list of coffee machines head to How To Choose a Home Espresso Machine
Sage Barista Pro
Price when reviewed £728 - Check Price on Amazon
The Sage Barista Pro is one of our top choices for home espresso machines in the UK market.
It builds upon the features of the Sage Barista Express, while offering a more streamlined user experience.
This machine allows you to emulate professional barista skills by providing intuitive dials for grinding coffee and adjusting the grind size.
The machine offers a variety of functions, including the option for pre-infusion during shot extraction and water temperature adjustments.
While the frothing process does require a slight learning curve, owing to its single boiler, it takes merely 5 seconds to generate sufficient pressure to steam milk.
The design philosophy behind this machine is to afford users complete control over every facet of the espresso-making process, all while simplifying the act of pulling a perfectly crafted espresso once the settings are finely tuned.
Key Specs: Tank Capacity: 2 Litres, Pressure: 9 Bar, Dimensions: H40.6 x W35.4 x D40.6cm, Weight: 9kg, Basket Size: 18g, Features: Grinder, Steamer, Pre-Infuse, Cup warmer
2. Rancilio - Silvia
Price when reviewed £594 - Check Price on Shop Coffee
Rancilio has earned a substantial reputation in the realm of commercial espresso machines, primarily through their large, multi-group head units commonly found in cafes.
In 1997, they introduced the Silvia, initially conceived as a gift for their importers and vendors. Recognizing an untapped market opportunity, they subsequently commercialized these machines.
Now in its sixth version, the Silvia has attained somewhat legendary status in the domain of domestic coffee apparatuses. While its exterior may lack the aesthetic refinement and high-tech displays of some competitors, its internal components more than compensate for this. Equipped with a sizable 300ml boiler, it boasts a highly effective steam wand, making it one of the top choices for crafting lattes and cappuccinos.
Having been in circulation for over two decades, the Silvia has amassed a devoted following and spawned a wealth of online resources on potential modifications. It could be aptly described as the Microsoft of the coffee machine industry.
Though it may lack certain stylistic elements and is not designed for the convenience of push-button operation—requiring a separate grinder for optimal use—if you are in the market for an exemplary espresso and desire a machine that allows for a barista-level experience, the Silvia is well worth considering.
Key Specs: Tank Capacity: 2.18 Litres, Pressure: 9 Bar, Dimensions: H23.5 x W29 x D34cm, Weight: 14kg, Basket Size: 14-18g, Features: Large Boiler, Barista Standard
3. Sage - Bambino Plus
Price when reviewed £320 - Check Price on Amazon
The Sage Bambino Plus the Barista Pro’s sidekick, sharing similarities in both design and the quality of the final brew.
While it lacks a built-in grinder, a feature present in the Barista Pro, this is a common trait among most espresso machines.
Despite its slender and compact footprint, the Bambino Plus in no way sacrifices coffee quality. Capable of generating a consistent 9 bars of pressure, it effortlessly delivers rich, velvety espresso shots.
Similar to its larger Sage counterparts, the machine offers a manual pre-infusion option. A standout feature is its remarkably quick three-second heat-up time. Recognizing the inconvenience of the lengthy warm-up periods typical in commercial machines, Sage has prioritized consumer feedback to provide a near-instantaneous heat-up feature.
However, it's worth noting that the Bambino Plus comes with a slightly different group head compared to more expensive models. Instead of featuring spouts, it has two funnels, which can lead to uneven drip rates. While this may not significantly impact the quality of a double shot, splitting the shot might result in imbalances in size and extraction ratios.
Into Lattes? This guy was our favourite in our Best Latte Machine Guide.
Key Specs:Tank Capacity: 1.9 Litres, Pressure: 9 Bar, Dimensions: H31 x W20 x D32cm, Weight: 6.5kg, Basket Size: 18g, Features: Steamer, Pre-infusion, 3 Second Heating
The Best Bean to Cup Coffee Machines
Here are our top 3 bean to cup coffee machines that our team of coffee experts deemed the best around. To see the full list of coffee machines head to The Bean to Cup Coffee Machine Guide
1. De'Longhi - Magnifica S
Price when reviewed £300 - Check Price on Amazon
The Magnifica S Smart represents the pinnacle of what a bean-to-cup coffee machine can offer.
Delonghi has masterfully blended ease of operation, coffee quality, and value in this latest iteration of their Magnifica series.
To initiate the espresso-making process, simply load your premium specialty coffee beans into the machine's top-mounted hopper and select the pre-set espresso x2 function. Like any high-quality espresso machine, it will take some time to fine-tune your espresso shots. You can start by adjusting the aroma setting dial located on the front panel, which essentially controls the volume of coffee used per shot.
Further calibration can be achieved by modifying the grind size through the coarseness dial situated within the bean hopper. While perfecting your Delonghi bean-to-cup coffee machine settings may require a bit of time and periodic adjustments, daily operation becomes exceptionally straightforward once you've attained the ideal variables.
For those fond of lattes, the Magnifica Smart comes equipped with a steam wand capable of delivering perfectly textured milk for any milk-based espresso beverages.
Though this machine may lack some of the flashy lights and LCD displays found in other models, it compensates with its exceptional coffee quality and ease of use. Additionally, its understated design results in a considerably more affordable price point compared to other machines in the same category.
Key Specs:Coffee Menu: Espresso, Latte, Cappucino, Americano, Dimensions: H23.8 x W35.1 x D43cm, Weight: 9kg, Tank Capacity: 1.8 litres, Features: One Touch Coffee, Milk Frother, Easy Clean
2. Melitta - TS Smart
Price when reviewed £809 - Check Price on Amazon
If you're inclined towards cutting-edge technology or are keen on minimizing effort, the Melitta TS Smart could well be your ideal match. With the Melitta app, you can operate the Barista machine within Bluetooth range, offering the novel luxury of brewing coffee without leaving your bed.
The machine distinguishes itself in several ways beyond its technological prowess. Firstly, it features dual bean hoppers, a great option for households with varying coffee preferences, such as decaf options or a choice between espresso and single-origin beans. Additionally, it comes equipped with a compartment for pre-ground coffee. Secondly, it incorporates a slider for grind coarseness—a rare but welcome feature in automatic espresso machines that provides an added layer of control.
The machine's ease of cleaning is another commendable aspect, with removable parts. While the technology does have its quirks, as is often the case with app-based smart devices, these are minor inconveniences in the broader context.
Do note that the machine's dimensions, particularly when the detachable milk container is included, require a significant amount of countertop space.
In summary, the Melitta TS Smart is not only visually appealing but also impressively innovative, making it a compelling option for the modern coffee aficionado.
Key Specs:Coffee Menu: Espresso, Latte, Cappucino, Americano, Dimensions: H37 x W26 x D47cm, Weight: 11kg, Tank Capacity: 2 litres, Features: App, Two Hoppers, Adjustable Grind
3. Sage - Oracle Touch
Price when reviewed £1838 - Check Price on Amazon
The Sage Oracle Touch is one of the highest quality bean to cup coffee machines.
Firstly its touchscreen interface enables you to not only choose from a range of pre-programmed coffee options but also to customise your own. While the Oracle Touch does require some manual involvement, Sage has ingeniously eliminated most variables typically associated with espresso brewing.
After emptying the used coffee into you espresso knock box, your primary role is essentially to move the ground coffee between different sections of the machine. After selecting your preferred coffee, insert the portafilter into the group head to commence the grinding and tamping process, then lock it back into the group head to initiate extraction.
For milk texturing, simply place your milk container on the drip tray and insert the steam wand. The wand comes with a thermocouple that halts the steaming once the milk reaches the desired temperature. The final step is to pour this expertly textured milk over your espresso, perhaps garnishing it with some eye-catching latte art—a skill Sage technology has yet to automate, though perhaps this is an avenue for future innovation.
If you're willing to invest a premium for a high-caliber coffee experience and can overlook the hefty price tag, the Sage Oracle Touch offers a barista-level coffee quality with minimal effort.
Key Specs:Coffee Menu: Espresso, Latte, Cappucino, Americano, Dimensions: H45.4 x W39.2 x D37.3cm, Weight: 14 kg, Tank Capacity: 2.5 litres, Features: Grinder, Steamer, Dual Boiler, Automatic Steamer and Tamper, Touch Screen
The Nespresso Coffee Machines
Here are our top 3 Nespresso coffee machines that our team of coffee experts deemed the best around. To see the full list of coffee machines head to How to Choose a Coffee Pod Machine.
Opal - One
Price when reviewed £130 - Check Price on Shop Coffee
Curious about leveling up your capsule coffee game? Then you might want to keep an eye out for the Opal One Capsule Pod Coffee Machine. Why, you ask? This isn't just another capsule machine; it's engineered specifically for specialty coffee pods.
Ever heard of a silicon brew chamber in a coffee machine? The Opal One sports this unique feature, setting it apart from its competitors. This is crucial because, unlike many capsule machines that can end up watering down your coffee, this device ensures a rich, full-bodied cup every single time.
Now, let's talk about brewing pressure and temperature—two elements that coffee aficionados know can make or break your cup of joe. The Opal One coffee machine nails both. Its high-pressure and high-temperature mechanisms put it squarely among the best capsule machines out there.
Weighing in at a lightweight 5kg, this sleek and stylish machine won't demand much of your kitchen real estate. It's designed to let you enjoy specialty coffee pods without any fuss, making it a fantastic addition to any kitchen.
So, if you're keen on unlocking the full potential of specialty coffee pods, the Opal One comes highly recommended. Not only does it deliver on taste, but it's also genuinely enjoyable to use.
So, what do you think? Ready to make this high-performing machine a part of your daily coffee ritual?
Key Specs: Dimensions: 15 x 42 x 30 cm, Tank Capacity: 0.8 Litres, Features: High pressure brewing, designed to brew speciality coffee pods.
2. Nespresso - Virtuo Pop
Price when reviewed £97 - Check Price on Amazon
Thinking about bringing cafe-quality coffee into your home without the hassle? The Nespresso Vertuo Pop could be your answer. It's tailored to work exclusively with Nespresso Vertuo capsules, giving you an impressive selection of over 30 different capsules.
So, what makes this machine stand out from the sea of home coffee makers? It's a marvel of compact design combined with impressive capacity. Boasting a 600ml water tank and the ability to brew multiple coffee sizes, it caters to every coffee whim you might have. And did I mention it comes with a complimentary set of 12 capsules to get you started.
In a rush but craving quality coffee? No problem. The one-touch brewing feature heats up in just 30 seconds.
Now, let's talk about precision—something every coffee enthusiast values. The machine's patented barcode technology reads each capsule to ensure that you get the ideal brew, every single time.
So, ready to make the Nespresso Vertuo Pop your go-to for home-brewed coffee? Given its unique features and reliability, it certainly earns its title as one of the best Nespresso makers on the market.
Key Specs:Dimensions: 42.6D x 13.6W x 25H cm, Tank Capacity: 0.56 litres, Features: One touch brewing system, smart connectivity, low energy consumption.
3. Grind - One
Price when reviewed £295 - Check Price on Grind
If you're in the market for a Nespresso-compatible coffee pod machine that combines style with durability, the Grind One is well worth your attention. Crafted from high-quality polished stainless steel and equipped with aviation-grade toggle switches, this 19-bar pressure machine is engineered for longevity. It delivers not only a robust coffee but also a flawless crema.
What's more, each purchase comes with an added bonus: 30 complimentary compostable pods. In the unlikely event of a malfunction, rest assured that Grind provides a two-year warranty.
Bid farewell to generic plastic coffee machines and welcome the Grind One into your coffee arsenal. This pod machine makes an excellent addition to any coffee aficionado's collection. Acquire yours now and elevate your coffee experience to new heights.
Key Specs:Dimensions: 166W x 259H x 336L mm, Tank Capacity: 1.2 litres, Features: Adjustable drip tray, programmable dosing, removable water tank.
The Best Filter Coffee Machines
Here are our top 3 filter coffee machines that our team of coffee experts deemed the best around. To see the full list of filter coffee machines head to our Filter Coffee Machine Buying Guide.
1. Sage - Precision Brewer
Price when reviewed £249 - Check Price on Amazon
Sage is a renowned name in the realm of premium kitchen appliances, and they are particularly distinguished in the field of home coffee brewing. Their product lineup includes high-caliber prosumer offerings such as the Sage Barista Pro Espresso coffee machine and the Sage Smart Grinder Pro.
After much anticipation, the Sage Precision Brewer has made its debut, setting new standards in the home coffee brewing sector. While it sits on the pricier end of the spectrum, its unique and highly practical features fully justify the investment.
The Precision Brewer coffee machine is thoughtfully engineered, keeping the user's needs at the forefront. Its versatile brew basket accommodates various filtering options: you can opt for cone filters, switch to flat-bottom paper filters, or use the metal filter basket by simply detaching the inner cone.
Moreover, it allows you the flexibility to remove the filter assembly entirely and place your own pour-over brewer atop the thermal jug.
For cold brew aficionados, the Precision Brewer comes with an option to slow-brew using cold water for up to 14 hours. It even includes a timer, enabling you to fill the basket with your preferred ground coffee the night before and wake up to a jug of exquisite filter coffee.
While it may not offer a completely hands-off coffee-making experience like some bean-to-cup machines, the Sage Precision Brewer is replete with features that cater to virtually every coffee preference.
Key Specs:Dimensions: 136 x 16.8 x 39.5 cm, Tank Capacity: 1.7 litres, Features: Thermal Carafe, 5 presets, Adjustable bloom time, Precise brewing temperature
2. Technivorm - Moccamaster
Price when reviewed £230 - Check Price on Amazon
The Moccamaster KBGT enjoys iconic status among third-wave coffee shops globally, earning its reputation as the original batch brew machine. Known for its straightforward design, robustness, and precision, it has been a top choice for brewing and serving filter coffee for several years.
The Moccamaster operates on simplicity. It eschews complicated LCD screens and adjustable dials in favour of a single on/off switch to initiate the water flow.
Its appeal among filter coffee enthusiasts lies in the calibrated water temperature and brew cycles, which are optimised for ideal water saturation, thereby enhancing the coffee's flavour profile.
The coffee machine's filter cone comes with a removable lid, offering the advantage of observing the brewing process to fine-tune future brews. Additionally, a sensor button at the base of the jug stand allows you to halt the pour instantly if the coffee grind is too fine and starts to overflow during brewing.
The thermos jug is designed with dual lids; one is used during the filtering process and features perforations around the edges to enable pouring post-brew. A solid lid is also provided, either for transporting the coffee or keeping it hot for extended periods.
Key Specs:Dimensions: 17D x 32W x 36H cm, Tank Capacity: 1.25 litres, Features: Thermal Carafe/Hot Plate, Precise brewing temperature, Designed for specialty coffee
3. Morphy Richards - Verve
Price when reviewed £37 - Check Price on Amazon
The Morphy Richards Verve is a sleek, compact filter coffee machine designed to be both a visual and functional asset to your kitchen and is one of our top picks for the best budget coffee machines. Initiate the brew cycle, and an initial trickle of water blooms the coffee grounds, followed by a slow release of the remaining water over the coffee bed, ensuring an even extraction.
This coffee maker employs flat-bottom filters, a choice that finds favour among many coffee aficionados. The extraction dynamics of flat-bottom filters differ slightly from their cone-shaped counterparts, often yielding a more balanced cup of coffee.
Additionally, the coffee machine features a built-in timer, allowing you to schedule your morning brew while also providing the flexibility to adjust the quantity and strength to your liking.
For those with limited kitchen space in the UK, the Morphy Richards Verve stands as an excellent small filter coffee machine option.
Key Specs:Dimensions: 18.8D x 23W x 33.5H cm, Tank Capacity: 1.8 litres, Features: Compact, Timer, Bloom setting, Flat bed filters.
The Best Stovetop Coffee Machine
Here is our favourite stovetop coffee machine. To see the full list of stovetop coffee machines head to our Stovetop Espresso Machine Guide.
1. Bialetti - Venus
Price when reviewed £31 - Check Price on Amazon
Bialetti reigns supreme in the realm of stovetop coffee pots, a title well-deserved given their role in inventing the device. The Venus model stands as our top pick for stovetop coffee makers, featuring elegant design, exceptional coffee quality and a great portable coffee machine.
Though it may be considered the more refined sibling of the original Bialetti Italian coffee maker, the Venus still produces the iconic coffee flavour that the brand's moustached emblem represents.
Similar to most stovetop coffee machine models, the Venus operates by screwing the bottom to the top, allowing hot water to pass through a chamber filled with coffee grounds. Unlike the Moka Express, however, this model is compatible with induction heat sources.
Bialetti has also enhanced the user experience with a "dripless pour" spout, ensuring a cleaner workspace.
Nevertheless, the Venus does present some challenges in cleaning. The upper chamber, where the brewed coffee gathers, has a tall, narrow edge that is somewhat difficult to access. Additionally, the cylindrical shape, while aesthetically pleasing, can make it slightly awkward to grip when assembling the espresso pot.
In summary, the Venus is a high-quality induction Moka pot that combines Bialetti's signature craftsmanship with contemporary flair. They make great one cup coffee makers too.
Key Specs:Capacity: 4 Cup (180ml), 6 Cup (270ml), 10 Cup (450ml), Material: Stainless Steel, Stove Compatibility: Gas, Electric, Induction
FAQs
What coffee cups do I use for my coffee machine?
If you’re going to spend a bit of your hard earned cash on a coffee machine, you have to then be able to take some insta worthy photos of your drinking home-barista made coffee, in that case you can’t be using your Winnie the Pooh mug. There are many so many coffee cups to choose from and like coffee machines have variations and USPs. I always find that going into a specialty coffee shop, the cups that are generally used for Flat whites are the ones that the barista will use to create the most instagrammable latte art. So if you’re in the market for some beautiful coffee cups to go with your new coffee machine checkout our rundown of the best coffee cups for Flat Whites.
How to tamp coffee?
There's a good chance that if you purchased a coffee machine you’ll have to use a coffee tamper. This little device is used to press the ground espresso coffee tightly inside the basket to create a coffee-puck. When the portafilter is locked into the group head this creates a densely packed layer of coffee that the hot water at 9 bars of pressure can squeeze through and extract the perfect espresso. Tamping coffee does take a bit of practice and requires the coffee to be evenly distributed and level. I always recommend your tamping forearm to be bent at a right angle but perpendicular to the portafilter.
Do I need a milk jug for my coffee machine?
You will need a milk frothing jug for your coffee machine if of course you plan to froth milk and make coffees such as macchiatos. Many coffee machines come with built-in milk frothers and will also come with a stainless steel jug. If you are the lookout for an alternative option though make sure that the material is robust and keep in mind the size of the jug and how many coffees you plan to make at once. Checkout our guide on The Best Milk Frothing Jugs.
How to clean a coffee machine?
I learned pretty early on as a barista to keep the coffee machine clean. In a coffee shop, espresso machines are usually cleaned daily after service, this of course is because they are being used far more frequently than a domestic coffee machine and the quality always has to be on point. The cleanliness of your coffee machine is down to your preference however a clean machine will definitely produce better coffee. Cleaning coffee machines depends on the type of coffee machien you have, generally speaking though you have to backflush water or coffee machine cleaner through the system and clean anywhere that has come into contact with coffee grounds or milk. If you want to learn more read our guide on How to clean your coffee machine.
What are the top brands in the coffee machine industry?
There are many commercial coffee machine brands that you may see in coffee shops such as La Marzocco, Rocket, La Spaziale or Victoria Arduino. Some of these coffee machine brands have been around for years and only manufacture coffee machines that can be used in a coffee shop or commercial setting.
The big players in the domestic coffee machine industry are Delonghi, Breville (Sage), Melitta and Nespresso. If you’re on the hunt for one of these machines this year checkout our Black Friday Coffee Machine deals article.
What is the most reliable coffee machine?
It does depend on the type of coffee machine you want to buy. In terms of brand, I would always recommend checking out the range of Sage coffee machines, they are robust, easy to use and last for years. If you are on the lookout for the most reliable type of coffee machine I would suggest one with as little moving parts as possible and as few buttons and electronics hooked up. For example a filter coffee machine usually only has an on and off switch with a shower head above the ground coffee.
What features should I look for when choosing a coffee machine?
I would recommend reverse engineering what your coffee machine has by figuring out what coffee you would like to make, how much time you have to make it and how much money you want to spend. There are so many different features that coffee machines display today from heating your coffee cup to automated brewing via an app. Before choosing your coffee machine because of a fairly irrelevant feature, make sure it’s going to brew a coffee you want, fit your lifestyle and your wallet.