If you make espresso at home regularly, start by choosing the routine you want to follow: a capsule or coffee pod for a pre-portioned brew, a grinder for an automated extraction from coffee beans, or a portafilter if you want more hands-on control over the process. Then check which consumables are compatible, what maintenance is required and whether the specific model has milk functions. Whichever of these four types you choose, you’ll need to check all three.
If you want to choose your beans and adjust your coffee without handling every step of a portafilter machine, consider an automatic bean-to-cup machine. Que Choisir identifies these machines as an option for coffee enthusiasts and heavier coffee drinkers, though you’ll also need to consider maintenance and the space required.
A capsule or coffee pod machine lets you start with a pre-portioned serving. Before choosing one, check which format the specific model accepts and read its descaling instructions: a guided brewing process doesn’t mean there’s no maintenance.
A portafilter machine suits those who are happy to measure out their coffee and spend more time preparing it. If you also enjoy milk-based drinks, check whether the exact model has a steam wand or milk frother, and how to clean it.
For regular use at home, start with what matters most to you, then compare it with the machine’s specifications and instructions.
| What to consider | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee choice and availability | Which types of coffee the machine accepts and whether you can regularly get hold of the compatible format. | If I want to choose my own beans or ground coffee, I don’t want to be limited to a pre-portioned format; around 27% of consumers put this freedom of choice and availability at the top of their list. |
| Ease of use | The steps needed to make a cup and the controls provided for one or two cups. | When I make coffee every day, I prefer to keep handling to a minimum before brewing; around 33% of consumers prioritise this guided routine. |
| Settings and milk-based drinks | The settings actually available, whether there’s a steam wand or milk frother, and which drinks are listed for the model you’re considering. | If I want more control over my espresso or to make frothed milk, I’m happy to spend time adjusting the settings; around 20% of consumers prioritise this control or these drinks. |
| Maintenance, noise and space | The cleaning steps in the instructions, the machine’s dimensions and, if noise is a deciding factor, a test of the specific model. | If space is tight in my kitchen, I want to know about the everyday demands before choosing a grinder; around 20% of consumers put easy maintenance, low noise or a compact size first. |
Que Choisir says that machines with grinders take up more space and are noisier than capsule systems. This comparison between machine types doesn’t tell you how noisy a particular model will be.
Beans, ground coffee, capsules and coffee pods aren’t interchangeable in the same machine. With a pre-portioned format, in particular, you’ll need to check which consumables the model accepts.
Confirm the format in the instructions and make sure you can get hold of it as often as you need it.
Trays, reservoirs and any milk-preparation components need attention in addition to descaling. The maintenance tasks vary from one machine to another.
Check the instructions for your model to find out which parts to clean, which products are approved and what each maintenance cycle involves.
Allow time for these cycles too, and buy the right maintenance products if the instructions call for them.
Que Choisir reports that machines with grinders are noisier and take up more space than capsule systems. This isn’t a measurement that applies to every model.
Measure the space you have available and look for noise tests of the models you’re considering.
A range can include machines with different equipment and drink options. A steam wand and an automatic milk frothing system also involve different steps when in use.
Check the milk equipment on the exact model, the drinks it can make and which parts need cleaning after use.
These ranges illustrate different brewing systems. The features mentioned depend on the individual models and don’t necessarily apply to every machine from each brand.
De’Longhi’s French range of bean-to-cup espresso machines includes models with different controls and milk-making equipment.
Nespresso machines use capsule systems, and the brand provides maintenance instructions on its French website.
The SENSEO models featured by Philips use coffee pods; milk preparation features aren’t available on every model.
Sage Appliances France offers portafilter machines with accessories and features that vary by model.
This selection includes automatic bean-to-cup machines for brewing coffee from beans, as well as a portafilter machine for those who want more hands-on control over the process.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you want to brew coffee with a grinder and have the LatteGo milk system. If you plan to use this model regularly, check the instructions for cleaning the brew group and caring for the AquaClean filter.
Image unavailable
This automatic machine with the LatteCrema system is designed for those who like to switch between coffee and milk-based drinks. Check the instructions for the ECAM290.61.B to see how to clean the milk system separately from the other components.
Image unavailable
Worth a look if you’re after automatic brewing with a grinder, milk frothing and a choice of six advertised coffee varieties. Before making room for it in your kitchen, check the dimensions and the H16’s maintenance instructions.
Image unavailable
This automatic machine with a grinder is a good choice if you want to brew from beans. If you also plan to make milk-based drinks, check the instructions for the ECAM250.23.SB to find out how to use the steam wand and clean it after use.
Image unavailable
This portafilter model is for those who want to take a more hands-on role in making their espresso. Its name indicates a pressure of 15 bar, but that figure alone doesn’t tell you what the coffee will taste like. Before choosing, check which filters suit your coffee and the capacity of the reservoir on the version being sold.
Yes. Follow the instructions for the machine you have. Nespresso France recommends descaling every 3 months or after around 300 capsules in its care instructions; Philips Support recommends descaling SENSEO machines every 3 months. Check the instructions before choosing a descaling product and following the procedure.
Compare tests of the two specific models, then check the cleaning steps in their instructions. Que Choisir reports that a grinder is noisier and takes up more space than a capsule system, and includes cleaning in its assessment process. That comparison alone doesn’t rank two individual models.
Some can, if they have a steam wand or another suitable device, but you shouldn’t assume this feature is available on every portafilter machine. Check the equipment on the model you’re considering and the cleaning instructions for after using milk.
In France, the statutory guarantee of conformity applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a professional to a private individual, as the Ministry of the Economy explains. If the machine doesn’t match the seller’s description or isn’t fit for the purpose normally expected, keep your proof of purchase and the product description so you can assert your rights with the seller.