How to Choose the Best Coffee Machines
There's a model to meet every need regardless of whether you're looking to buy an espresso maker or a coffee pod brewer. Prices start around PS50.
These brewers make use of pre-measured pods and offer convenience with consistency, as well as hand-free ease of use. They also perform well in our Lab tests.
Manual
A manual machine is a great choice for espresso lovers who are looking to have control. These machines let you manually operate a mechanical piston, which results in a precise amount of pressure and extraction. This type of coffee machine requires a little more expertise and experience to operate than other types however, many coffee drinkers believe it's worth the effort.
Manual coffee machines are constructed of top-quality materials that can last for a long time without any maintenance. These machines include a range of accessories, including filters, portafilters, measuring cup, tamper, and funnel. They can be used to make cappuccinos as well as other drinks that use ground or pod coffee. Some manual coffee machines come with steam arms that can be used for milk-based drinks. Other machines come with a nozzle to distribute water over the grounds.
The majority of manual coffee machines utilize a separate kettle to heat water that is then poured over the grounds inside the chamber that is used for brewing. The user then presses or raises a lever or hand to trigger an engine that pushes hot water through the grounds before it is poured into the cup below. This type of coffee machine is not as accurate or precise in its temperature control as semi-automatic or fully automated coffee maker, and you may have to experiment with different techniques to find the ideal espresso flavor.
Some manual coffee machines were designed for home use. However, the majority are for hospitality businesses such as hotels, restaurants and breakfast and bed and breakfast establishments. They are typically small, compact, and efficient taking up the smallest amount of counter space. They are also less expensive than other coffee makers and can be easily repaired or replaced.
These machines are typically constructed with durable materials, such as brass and chrome. Some are handcrafted and provide a touch of class to the kitchen layout. They are also often easy to clean. Some come in a variety of colors that can be matched to the style of any kitchen. They are easier to use than a fully automatic or semi-automatic coffee machine and they can produce delicious coffee.
Semiautomatic
Semi-automatic machines are a great compromise for espresso lovers who don't want to control all the variables that go into making the perfect shot. These machines begin to take on some of the tasks involved in making an espresso, such as steaming milk and pre-infusion. You'll still be able to modify your drink to suit your preferences.
One of the top semi-automatic coffee makers on the market comes from Breville, a company known for its wide range of kitchen appliances. The Infuser is a multi-functional model that allows you to make cappuccino, espresso and lattes with the click of a button. The machine also automatically dispenses the right amount of water per drink and its built-in burr grinder automatically adjusts the size of the grind to accommodate different extraction levels and beans. The Infuser's slim, sleek design and simple-to-use controls make it a perfect choice for people with small counter space.
The Dedica espresso machine is yet another top-rated model from Breville. The 15 bar pump will create a delicious espresso shot. Its commercial design will last for many years. The Dedica also features a removable milk reservoir as well as an ice-making wand that can be used to make cappuccinos as well as lattes.
For a semiautomatic coffee maker that provides even more hands-free convenience consider an ultra-automatic. These machines are a step above conventional automatics, with programmable coffee sizes, automatically grinding beans, and often measuring and tamping for you. These machines scored the top in our Lab Tests due to their all-in-one functionality and ease of use.
If you're looking for a machine that does it all take a look at the Philips Dinamica. The Dinamica has a large touchscreen that can display 16 drinks to choose from, including latte and cappuccino. It grinds whole coffee beans to match your beverage selection and can even store your preferred settings, so you can avoid the menu altogether. Its advanced features include a water tank that is removable with a built-in water hardness tester as well as an AquaClean filter that prevents the build-up of scale and ensures that your machine always produces the highest quality coffee.
Fully automatic
A fully automated coffee machine gives you an incredibly smooth, rich cup of coffee with the push of the button. It is an excellent choice for busy homes and offices and is able to brew espresso-based drinks as well as filter coffee. Some models also have automatic milk frothing, letting you enjoy coffees that are cafe-style, such as cappuccino and latte. Some models can even be programmed which allows you to set your preferred beverage ahead of time. These machines are ideal for multitaskers since you can work while the coffee is brewing.
These machines are also very popular in coffee shops that are commercial as they can brew several different drinks at the same time. They are more expensive than semi-automatic models. Some people may find that the convenience of a fully automated coffee maker is worth the extra cost.
The Mcilpoog WS203 Super-Automatic Espresso Machine and Coffee Maker is a premium, highly configurable coffee machine that offers the same quality as an excellent cafe right at home. It's easy to use, and comes with a touch screen display that makes making coffee as easy as three steps. It is also equipped with an adjustable burr grinder as well as adjustable settings, so you can adjust your espresso to your personal preferences.
Another option that is ideal for busy households is the De'Longhi ECAM35020W Dinamica Automatic Coffee and Espresso Machine. The coffee machine is quick to heat up and comes with a milk frother as well as an adjustable steel burr mill for making espresso and coffee-based drinks. It can also make a variety of coffees that include filter coffee as well as iced.
This is a low-cost and versatile Nespresso compatible machine that's ideal for a modern, well-equipped home. It has a massive 1.7L tank and a coffee maker capacity. It also features a quick, quiet heating system to ensure the perfect cup of coffee every time. It's also very easy to use, with user profiles that automatically prioritise each person's favourite drinks so they are just one tap away.
Super-automatic
These models are a step up from semi-automatic machines. They grind and dose, take the shot, and froth milk with the click of the button. They are the ideal choice for coffee lovers who want to enjoy a wide range of beverages and appreciate the convenience of not having to prepare each one at a time like in a manual model or an automated model.
A great example is the Gaggia Velasca Prestige which combines an excellent brewing machine and an automatic milk frothing system for the perfect cappuccino, lattes or macchiato. It is programmable so you can customize it to meet your specific requirements and save the settings. A bypass doser is also included in many of these machines that allow the use of pre-ground coffee instead of the beans stored in the bean hopper. It's which is a great feature for guests or if you want to change to a different kind of beans.
The DeLonghi Magnifica Evo Fully Automated machine is a popular choice due to its versatility and user-friendliness. It comes with seven recipes that can be brewed in one touch with easy-to-read colored icons for everything from Espresso to a Latte Macchiato. It also has the capability to save six user profiles so that everyone can have their own preferred drink at the touch of one button. This machine also includes a ceramic burr grinder which is the best choice for lifespan and performance.
The Jura ENA 4 is another model made in Switzerland that you must take into consideration. It has a sleek, minimal design and a large container for water and bean capacity, making it perfect for commercial use. It has a highly efficient coffee brewing system as well as the amazing Aroma G3 grinder. It gives you the finest espresso and coffee you'll ever have.
The Philips 3200 LatteGo has a smaller design than other super-
automatic coffee machines on this list, but manages to deliver a quality cup of coffee. The machine can make up to 5000 cups of coffee before it needs to be descaled. It is ideal for families with a lot of work to do. It also has an integrated grinder with 13 settings.