Households that make several espressos
If you make several cups a day, compare the cost of buying a grinder with your ongoing spend on pre-portioned coffee, based on the same level of consumption.
Who is this option for ?
Households that take maintenance into account
Cleaning, descaling and the option to replace certain parts can matter just as much as making the coffee.
Households with varied preferences
If several people want different coffees or milk-based drinks, check the recipes available on the model you’re considering and how the relevant parts need to be cleaned.
What to compare
UFC-Que Choisir recommends comparing different types of machine based on their practical trade-offs, including preparation, maintenance and cost per cup.
Automatic bean-to-cup machine
Worth considering : if you often make espresso with your choice of beans and want the preparation to be automated.
Bear in mind : the initial outlay and regular maintenance, with no guarantee of savings for every household.
Capsule machine
Worth considering : if you prefer pre-portioned coffee and a simple preparation process to choosing your own beans.
Bear in mind : the repeated cost of buying capsules and whether they’re compatible with your machine’s system.
Portafilter machine
Worth considering : if you want to be hands-on when making espresso.
Check : how much time and effort this method takes; don’t assume the machine has a built-in grinder.
Filter coffee maker
Worth considering : if your household mainly wants filter coffee rather than espresso.
Limitation to bear in mind : on its own, it won’t meet the need to make espresso with freshly ground beans.
| Consideration | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Total cost | Compare the machine, coffee used and maintenance over the same period and for the same number of cups. | If I make several coffees a day, I want to compare what I spend on my current method with the cost of a grinder, without assuming the costs will automatically balance out. Around 33 % of consumers put total cost first. |
| Maintenance and parts | Check the manual for cleaning and descaling instructions, and find out which parts are available for the exact model. | I want to know how many regular tasks the machine will involve and where to find a suitable replacement part if needed. Around 27 % of consumers prioritise maintenance and repairs. |
| Drinks you want | Check the difference between black coffee, long coffee, a manual milk frother and automatically prepared milk-based drinks. | If everyone at home prefers a different drink, I check which recipes are actually available and what cleaning they involve. Around 20 % of consumers prioritise a variety of drinks. |
| Choice of beans | Check the grind settings and compare them with the beans you actually want to buy. | I want to choose my coffee without relying on a capsule format and adjust the grind to suit my preferences. Around 20 % of consumers prioritise bean choice and settings. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Assuming a saving per cup guarantees value for money
The result depends on the doses, what you buy and how much your household consumes. A general comparison between beans and capsules isn’t enough to work out an individual break-even point.
Compare the cost of making the same number of cups over the same period, based on your own habits and the products you plan to use.
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Confusing different versions in the same range
Features can vary between models. Philips describes the EP2220/10 as having a classic milk frother, while the Joybuy listing for the EP2230/10 specifies a LatteGo system.
Check the full model number and the recipes listed before comparing two offers.
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Assuming a cleaning programme means no maintenance is needed
A removable brew group or automatic cycle doesn’t mean you can ignore the machine’s specific instructions, particularly for parts that come into contact with milk.
Check the manual for the exact model to find out which tasks need to be done by hand, when to run descaling cycles and how to clean the accessories.
Brands to consider
De’Longhi
The Magnifica Start range includes home bean-to-cup machines worth considering based on the recipes and exact model.
- For the ECAM220.21.B, De’Longhi lists customisable drinks that can be selected at the touch of a button.
- Check the milk-based recipes and maintenance separately: features on one model don’t necessarily apply to the whole range.
Philips
The 2200 Series EP2220/10 is worth considering if you’re looking for a setup focused on adjustable black coffees and a classic milk frother.
- Philips lists a removable brew group and 12 grind settings for the EP2220/10.
- These features apply to this model; don’t confuse them with those of a LatteGo version.
Melitta
The Solo is worth considering if you’re mainly looking for a machine for espresso and long coffee.
- Melitta lists a width of 20 cm, the ability to prepare two cups at once and a removable brewing unit for the Solo.
- The product information doesn’t present this model as a solution for automatically prepared milk-based drinks; check which parts are available for your model.
Krups
The Intuition Essential EA870810 is another model to consider if you want to adjust the grind and have guidance while using the machine.
- Krups’ product information describes grind adjustment, initial set-up and maintenance alerts for the EA870810.
- The manufacturer’s comments on ease of use or results aren’t an independent comparison with other models.
Bean-to-cup machines on Joybuy
This selection covers home coffee machines with built-in grinders for making coffee from beans. Some models also offer filter coffee or options for milk-based drinks.
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Philips 2200 Series EP2230/10 LatteGo, glossy black
Worth considering if you’re looking for a machine with a LatteGo system for making milk-based drinks. The AquaClean filter is listed as not included; the stated interval of up to 5 000 cups before descaling depends on this accessory.
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De’Longhi Magnifica Start ECAM220.21.WW, white
Worth considering if people in your household want to tailor their coffees using beans. For milk-based drinks, you’ll need to use the steam wand to make the froth, which involves a hands-on step.
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De’Longhi Magnifica S ECAM22.140.B, black
Worth considering if you want to make espresso with a built-in grinder and still have the option of frothing milk. For milk-based drinks, you’ll need to use the steam wand and clean it afterwards.
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De’Longhi Magnifica S Smart ECAM250.23.SB, silver
Worth considering if you want to make a variety of drinks from beans. Milk-based drinks require the steam wand, which needs cleaning after use.
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Ninja Luxe Café Mini ES301EU, espresso and filter coffee
Worth considering if you want to make both espresso and filter coffee using freshly ground beans. The milk frother is manual. Making espresso also involves handling the portafilter and knocking out the used coffee puck.
Frequently asked questions
How do you compare the cost of a bean-to-cup machine with capsules ?
Compare the two methods over the same period and for the same number of cups. Factor in the machine, the coffee you actually use and maintenance consumables. For the bean-to-cup machine, base your figures on the dose and beans your household chooses. These factors aren’t enough to guarantee the same break-even point for everyone.
Does a cleaning programme mean you don’t need to clean the machine by hand ?
No. The manual for the specific model explains what you need to do for the trays, water tank, brew group and, if there is one, milk system. Philips describes the EP2220/10 as having a removable brew group; Melitta says the Solo’s brewing unit can be removed. Instructions vary by model.
Can you rely on parts being available in the future ?
Don’t assume the same availability requirements apply to every coffee machine. The DGCCRF states that certain categories of goods are covered, and that sellers must provide information about how long parts will be available when the manufacturer has told them. For your model, check the part numbers and the information provided by the seller.
What statutory guarantee applies to a bean-to-cup machine bought from a business in France ?
The statutory guarantee of conformity is mandatory for new, second-hand or refurbished goods sold by a business to an individual. The Ministry of the Economy and Finance states that you can claim it from the seller if the goods are not as described or do not conform to the contract. It is separate from any additional commercial guarantee.
How should you sort capsules if your household also keeps a capsule machine ?
ADEME says to put aluminium or plastic capsules in the packaging recycling. Check what your capsules are made of and follow the recycling instructions for your local area.