For a quick cup with minimal effort on a small worktop, a capsule or pod machine is often the simplest choice. Just check which consumables it takes and how much room you’ll need to use it. Ground coffee gives you the option of a manual espresso machine or a compact filter coffee maker. If you prefer beans, allow more space and time for maintenance, and bear in mind the noise from the grinder, as UFC-Que Choisir points out.
If every movement and every centimetre counts, a capsule or pod machine is worth considering. UFC-Que Choisir describes capsule models as easy to position and maintain. Even so, check that you can reach the water tank and make sure the machine takes the right type of consumable.
A manual espresso machine with a portafilter lets you use ground coffee, but you’ll need to empty and clean the portafilter. Bean-to-cup models grind the beans as part of the process, so you’ll need to allow for more space and maintenance, according to UFC-Que Choisir.
If your machine will be near your workspace, check the noise information for the specific model and find out what you’ll need to do after each cup. UFC-Que Choisir notes that an automatic grinder is noisier and takes up more space than a capsule system or filter coffee maker.
First, decide what you want to drink and which steps you’re happy to repeat each morning. Then measure the available space, including room to access the water tank. Each of the four machine types suits different priorities.
Choose this if : you want to make an individual cup with minimal fuss.
Bear in mind : the consumables you can use depend on the machine’s exact system.
Choose this if : you want to use ground coffee to make espresso.
Bear in mind : you’ll need to handle and clean the portafilter, as well as the steam wand if you use it.
Choose this if : you prefer filter coffee made with ground coffee.
Bear in mind : you’ll need to clean the filter and jug or cup; this option won’t make a short espresso.
Choose this if : grinding beans for every cup matters more to you than keeping things as simple as possible.
Bear in mind : according to UFC-Que Choisir, an automatic grinder generally takes up more space and makes more noise than a capsule system or filter coffee maker.
| Criteria | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space and ease of use | Measure the width, depth and height, then check how much room you’ll need to fill the tank and open the compartments. | In a studio flat, I want to be able to set up the machine and make a cup without moving other things. Around 31% of consumers would prioritise a compact size and fewer steps. |
| Morning routine | Compare the steps involved before and after making a cup, as well as the drinks offered by the model. | Before starting my working day, I’d rather avoid repeated adjustments and handling. Around 31% of consumers would make a quick routine their priority. |
| Consumables and waste | Check which format the machine takes and what the capsules or pods are made of. Also consider options that use ground coffee or beans. | If I make coffee every day, I want to choose compatible consumables and manage the resulting packaging. Around 23% of consumers would put these considerations first. |
| Beans, noise and maintenance | For the model you’re considering, check published noise information, access to the containers, and the rinsing and descaling steps. | I prefer freshly ground coffee, even if that means more maintenance near my workspace. Around 15% of consumers would put this preference first. |
A brand name alone doesn’t guarantee compatibility: Nespresso, for example, has separate Original and Vertuo technologies.
Check the exact system stated for the machine and match it to the information on the capsule packaging before you buy.
A narrow machine can still be awkward to use if a cupboard gets in the way of opening it or accessing the water tank. De’Longhi lists the Dedica Duo EC890 as 15 cm wide, but that alone doesn’t tell you how much room you’ll need to use it.
Check all three dimensions and allow space to remove the tank, open the compartments and handle the portafilter.
Having a built-in grinder doesn’t mean you can ignore the coffee grounds, containers or descaling. UFC-Que Choisir also highlights the noise and size of automatic grinders.
Check the machine’s manual for cleaning instructions and make sure you can access the containers where you plan to put it.
In France, ADEME says aluminium and plastic capsules should go in the recycling collection for paper and packaging, not in home compost.
Check what your capsules are made of and follow your local recycling guidance. If individual packaging is your main concern, you could also consider a machine that uses ground coffee or beans.
Nespresso’s Original and Vertuo ranges both use capsules, but rely on different technologies.
The Dedica range includes manual espresso machines with a portafilter for ground coffee.
Philips offers bean-to-cup machines as well as the Senseo pod range: two different ways to make coffee.
These models cover pod or capsule coffee, manual espresso made with ground coffee, and a small filter coffee maker. Start by choosing the drink and routine that suit you, then check the space and consumables required for your preferred model.
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Worth considering if you prefer making coffee with pods rather than measuring out ground coffee. Check which pods are compatible, whether you can access the water tank, and the descaling instructions before choosing a spot for it.
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A capsule option for making a single cup in a small space. The product name lists a 0.6 L water tank and 1,200 W of power. Check the exact capsule system and allow enough room behind the machine.
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Consider this if you want to use the Vertuo capsule system. The product name lists a 0.6 L water tank. Also measure the available height and leave enough clearance to open and use the machine.
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Worth a look if you’d rather make espresso with ground coffee than capsules. Allow for the steps involved in using the portafilter, and check the depth and available room for handling the machine.
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A compact filter coffee maker to consider if you use ground coffee and only make a small amount at a time. The product name lists a capacity of 300 ml. Check how to clean the filter and how long it takes to brew if every minute counts in the morning.
No. Compatibility depends on the machine’s system. UFC-Que Choisir says most brands only accept one type of capsule. Match the exact machine designation to the one on the capsules, rather than relying on the brand name alone.
It could be, if you have enough room and don’t mind the noise of grinding. UFC-Que Choisir says an automatic grinder is noisier and takes up more space than a capsule system or filter coffee maker. Check the published noise information and dimensions for the specific model.
Yes, when the machine asks you to descale it or its manual recommends doing so. UFC-Que Choisir advises against waiting until limescale affects how it works. Follow the descaling instructions and use the product recommended for your model.
ADEME says to put them in the recycling bin, bag or container for paper and packaging. Check what your capsules are made of and follow your local authority’s guidance.