Which coffee machine to choose?

What are the different types of coffee maker?

Filter Coffee Makers

Filter coffee makers are timeless classics and remain some of the most popular machines on the market. They offer ease of use, with many models including a programmable timer for fresh coffee whenever you need it. These machines are perfect for coffee drinkers who enjoy ground coffee brewed for maximum aroma and lighter, less intense results compared to espresso.

Whether electric or manual, filter coffee machines remain the most sold and widely used in households, with over 50% market share.

Why? Because filter coffee machines brew coffee slowly, allowing the ground coffee to release its full range of aromas. This makes them perfect for lighter, less intense long coffees compared to espresso.

Modern models often feature removable parts for easy cleaning, a drip tray, and the option to use a reusable filter basket, reducing environmental impact. Some models include built-in grinders, but you can also purchase a standalone automatic or manual grinder to pair with your machine.

Pros:

• Great for brewing multiple cups at once
• Highlights the quality of the coffee’s aroma
• Affordable with a low cost per cup
• Convenient with timers and ease of use

Cons:

• No pressure system, so no espresso with crema
• Limited grind settings and customisation

Pod Machines

Pod machines, such as the popular Nespresso Vertuo or models from Delonghi, are ideal for those who value convenience. Pod coffee machines are affordable, compact, and incredibly simple to use. With just the touch of a button, you can brew an espresso with crema, cappuccino, or even hot chocolate.

Pod machines are compact, making them perfect for small kitchens, but their lack of grind settings or extraction precision can be a downside for more discerning coffee drinkers.

The capsule system lets you change your coffee variety with every cup—and even your drink! Systems like Tassimo or Dolce Gusto offer not just coffee but cappuccinos, teas, and hot chocolates as well.

However, the most famous capsule system is undoubtedly Nespresso®, which provides a wide range of coffee options to suit all tastes. Some of the best Nespresso® machines also include a milk frother for creating lattes and silky-smooth foam. Many other brands also offer capsule systems, so ensure compatibility when choosing your machine.

It’s worth noting that capsule coffee is not freshly ground, but capsules are designed to preserve maximum aroma. Some brands, like Cafés Lugat, even guarantee freshness in their capsules.

Pros:

• Affordable upfront cost
• Wide variety of pod options (Nespresso pods, hot chocolate, etc.)
• Ease of use and quick results
• Compact design

Cons:

• Higher cost per cup compared to ground coffee
• Environmental impact from non-recyclable pods
• Little versatility in grind or dosing to extraction

Bean-to-Cup Coffee Machines

For those who love the aroma of fresh coffee made from whole coffee beans, a bean-to-cup coffee machine is the ultimate choice. These machines, often with integrated grinders and customisable settings, allow for optimum temperature control, extraction length, and grind precision. Popular brands like Delonghi and Sage coffee machines offer advanced features such as a steam wand, a removable water tank, and user profiles for families.

Daily use can save money on coffee costs while also reducing environmental impact. Many later models also cater to eco-conscious coffee drinkers by producing minimal waste.

Automatic machines are ideal for users seeking consistent, café-quality coffee at home. Depending on the model, bean-to-cup machines often support multiple beverages: espresso, long coffee, cappuccino, latte macchiato, tea, or even hot chocolate.

Pros:

• Fresh coffee with every cup
• Customisable grind settings and recipes
• Lower cost per cup in the long run
• Supports versatile coffee needs: cappuccino, latte, espresso with crema, etc.

Cons:

• High initial cost
• Larger size, requiring space at the back of the machine
• Regular cleaning needed for optimal results
• Can be a little noisy due to the integrated grinder

Manual Espresso Coffee Machines

The manual espresso machine is the epitome of authentic Italian espresso—strong, rich, and topped with a perfect crema. With these machines, water heated inside the unit passes through the coffee grounds at 9 bars of pressure.

For those who enjoy hands-on brewing, manual coffee machines are perfect for creating authentic espresso with crema. Using portafilters, these machines allow complete control over every step of coffee preparation—from grind size to dosing and length of extraction.

Manual espresso machines require hands-on preparation, from grinding your coffee to tamping and extraction. While they demand more skill and patience, they give you full control over every detail of your coffee preparation.

From beginner-friendly models to semi-professional machines for seasoned baristas, there’s a manual espresso machine for everyone. If you’re new to manual machines, start with an entry-level option.

While manual machines demand more effort, they deliver some of the best possible results for coffee lovers who want to master traditional espresso-making.

Pros:

• High-quality espresso with crema top
• Total customisation for each shot
• Unlimited choice of coffee beans or ESE pods
• Attractive vintage designs

Cons:

• Requires a separate grinder (or use pre-ground coffee)
• Can be a little noisy
• Steeper learning curve for new users

Which coffee machine to buy?

When selecting the best coffee machine, think about your specific needs:

We hope that this blog post has helped you find the perfect coffee machine for you. There’s no right or wrong answer, as it all boils down to you and your lifestyle. When selecting a coffee machine, make sure to consider your coffee needs, lifestyle, and budget. Whatever coffee machine you choose, make sure to enjoy a great cup of coffee every day!