If you regularly make espresso at home and want to choose your beans and adjust your drinks, an automatic bean-to-cup machine is worth considering if you’re happy with the space it takes up, the grinding noise and the maintenance. Capsules are better suited to a quick, compact routine, provided you’re happy with their format. You could also compare a portafilter machine if you’d like another way to make espresso, or a filter coffee machine if that’s what you mainly drink.
If you like to try different beans and adjust the strength or size of your coffee, take a look at the settings on a bean-to-cup machine. You’ll also need to allow space for it and factor in the maintenance it requires.
If you like to switch between espresso and cappuccino, choosing between a steam wand and an automatic milk system matters more than the number of recipes advertised. Check how to clean the parts that come into contact with milk.
A capsule machine is worth comparing if you want to make a cup quickly with minimal effort. Before choosing, check which capsule formats it accepts.
Start with the coffee you actually drink, then consider the preparation and maintenance you’re happy to build into your routine.
| Factor | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Type of coffee | For espresso, compare automatic bean-to-cup machines, capsule machines and portafilter machines. If you mainly drink filter coffee, consider a filter coffee machine or a model that specifically offers this brewing method. | I mainly drink espresso, or filter coffee instead: this will help me decide which type of machine to compare. |
| Beans and settings | With a bean-to-cup machine, check the model’s strength and coffee-size settings. For a capsule machine, check which formats are compatible rather than assuming all capsules will fit. | I want to change beans and adjust my cup, or I’d prefer a simpler preparation with fewer settings. |
| Milk-based drinks | Check whether it has a steam wand or an automatic milk system, then read the cleaning instructions for parts that come into contact with milk. Check the recipes available on the exact variant. | If I regularly make cappuccinos, handling and cleaning the milk system will be part of my routine. |
| Maintenance | Check the manual for instructions on rinsing the trays, accessing the brew unit and descaling. Also find out which filters and cleaning products are recommended for the model. | I want to know what regular tasks I’ll need to do, beyond making a cup of coffee. |
| Space and noise | Measure the space available and allow room to access the reservoirs. UFC-Que Choisir says a grinder takes up more space and makes more noise than a capsule system or filter coffee machine. To compare two grinders, look for tests of the exact models. | In a small kitchen, or if I make coffee early, access to the trays and the sound of grinding could influence my choice. |
| Format and waste | Check capsule compatibility and the material they’re made from. In France, ADEME says aluminium or plastic capsules should go in the packaging recycling bin; follow the relevant guidance for other coffee formats. | I’d like to be able to change my coffee without relying on one capsule format, and take the packaging used for each cup into account. |
The trays, brew unit and brewing system need regular attention. As UFC-Que Choisir points out, neglecting a descaling prompt can affect how the machine works.
Before choosing, check the manual for the exact model. Find out how to access the parts that need cleaning, what’s involved in descaling and what to do after making a milk-based drink.
Allow time for these tasks, as well as for any cleaning products or water filter recommended for the model.
A milk system means extra parts to clean after use. The number of recipes advertised won’t, on its own, tell you whether it’s right for you.
If you rarely make milk-based drinks, also compare a steam wand or a machine focused on black coffee. If you’ll use it regularly, check how to dismantle and wash the milk system components.
Grinding and rinsing can be disruptive, depending on where the machine is and when you use it. UFC-Que Choisir’s test protocol assesses factors including noise and vibrations during these stages.
Check the dimensions and access to the reservoirs. If noise is a deciding factor, look for a test of the exact model rather than relying on a general promise that it’s quiet.
These examples can help you compare specific set-ups; features vary between models within the same range.
The Magnifica range includes different ways to prepare milk-based drinks with an espresso bean-to-cup machine.
LatteGo models are aimed in particular at households looking to make milk-based drinks using a removable carafe.
The Purista is worth considering if you prefer black coffee and want control over your drink settings.
These models let you explore bean-to-cup machines for making coffee at home; the Ninja Luxe Café Mini combines espresso and filter coffee in its name. Compare the variants and how they work to find the right fit for the drinks you usually enjoy.
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If you like to switch between espresso and milk-based drinks at home, consider this bean-to-cup machine with LatteGo. Check the EP2230/10 manual for the drinks available and how to clean the milk system.
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If you regularly make milk-based drinks, check the recipes and cleaning steps for this LatteCrema automatic machine. Confirm which drinks are available on the ECAM290.61.B variant before choosing it.
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This H16 model is presented with a grinder, milk system and touchscreen for making espresso and milk-based drinks. Check the drinks available and the milk system cleaning instructions for this variant.
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If you want to make espresso from beans, consider this automatic Magnifica S with grinder. If you’d also like to froth milk, check how the steam wand works and how to clean it. Measure the space available before installation.
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If your household drinks both espresso and filter coffee, this 2-in-1 model with grinder is worth a closer look. Check the ES301EU manual to confirm how automated it is and how the milk frother works.
The trays, brew unit (if the model is designed for it to be cleaned) and milk system components all need regular attention. You should also descale the machine according to the manual and its prompts. The exact steps depend on the model, particularly after making a milk-based drink.
An automatic carafe is worth considering if you often make cappuccinos and are happy to clean the system after use; a steam wand may suit you if you don’t mind a more hands-on approach. In either case, check which parts come into contact with milk and the rinsing instructions for the exact model.
According to ADEME, aluminium or plastic capsules should go in the packaging recycling bin, bag or container. For paper capsules, check the material and see which composting or food waste collection options are available near you.