Filter, capsule, semi-automatic espresso and bean-to-cup machines each do a different job, so the best machine depends on what you drink, not on the spec sheet.
Tell the picker what you drink, how much effort you want, how many cups you make and what you'd like to pay, and it scores all four and says why. Along the way: why a 15 bar pump rating is mostly marketing, what the usual 1:18 filter ratio is, and what to look for at any budget.
Affiliate links, marked sponsored. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Kit for this drink at three prices. Prices checked 11 Oct; every shop is on each product page.
The pick for a jug of mild coffee for several people. It makes no espresso and no milk foam, which is exactly the trade-off the picker describes.
1.25 L glass carafe · Up to 10 cups · Reusable filter
A compact capsule machine for one or two quick cups with almost no mess. Capsules are bought separately and cost more per cup than beans.
19 bar pump · 0.7 L water tank · Heats up in 25 seconds
A slim semi-automatic machine with a milk system, for people who like to make the shot themselves. Plan for a separate grinder if you use whole beans.
15 bar pump · Thermoblock heating · 15 cm wide
Grinds and brews at the press of a button, so it suits busy mornings and different drinks in one household. It costs more and gives you less control than a manual machine.
Built-in grinder · 1.8 L water tank · Bean-to-cup
