If you make coffee regularly, start by considering which steps you’re happy to take every day. Capsules and coffee pods keep preparation simple, a portafilter requires more hands-on input, while a bean grinder automates more of the process. Your choice also depends on the type of coffee you’re happy to use, the space you have available and how much maintenance you’re prepared to do – particularly if you enjoy milk-based drinks.
If several people use the machine, consider the steps involved between cups and how often you’ll need to refill and clean it. A bean grinder is worth considering if you want to automate preparation and are happy to keep up with its maintenance.
Capsules and coffee pods let you make coffee using pre-measured portions. First, choose a system that suits you, then check the maintenance requirements for the model.
A portafilter is a good fit if you want to fill and tamp the coffee yourself. For milk-based drinks, compare the hands-on use of a steam wand with the cleaning required by an automatic milk system.
Worth considering: if you want to make a cup with minimal effort.
Bear in mind: the machine is designed for a specific capsule system, so check which one it uses before choosing.
Worth considering: if you prefer pre-portioned coffee and don’t want to handle ground coffee.
Bear in mind: you’ll need to use the format designed for the machine and follow its descaling instructions.
Worth considering: if measuring and tamping the coffee is part of the process you enjoy.
Bear in mind: making each coffee involves more steps than using a pod or automatic machine.
Worth considering: if you regularly use coffee beans and want to automate preparation.
Bear in mind: you’ll still need to clean the machine and, depending on the model, its milk system too.
Once you’ve chosen a type of machine, compare the specific model with the drinks you usually make and the space you have available.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee format | For portioned coffee, check the exact name of the system supported on the product page and in the manual. Que Choisir says that most capsule machine brands accept only one type of capsule. | I want to be able to find portions that work with the machine I’ll use every day. |
| How often you make coffee | Compare the steps involved between cups, the water tank capacity and, if needed, whether the specific model can make two cups at once. | When several coffees are made one after another at home, I’d rather avoid repeated refills or handling. |
| Milk-based drinks | Check whether it has a steam wand or milk system, which drinks it can make and what cleaning steps are listed in the manual. | If I make cappuccinos regularly, I need to factor cleaning the milk system into my routine, not just making the drink. |
| Size | Compare the model’s dimensions with the space available, including the height needed to access the water tank or grounds container. | My machine needs to fit on the worktop while still being easy to fill and clean. |
| Maintenance | Check which parts need washing and the model’s descaling instructions. Philips, for example, recommends descaling SENSEO machines every three months. | I’m looking for a maintenance routine I can keep up with, especially if my water is hard. |
Que Choisir says that most capsule machine brands accept only one type of capsule. A capsule designed for a different system may not work with the model you choose.
Check the exact system name on the product page and in the manual, then make sure you can get compatible capsules before choosing your machine.
Making milk-based drinks means an extra cleaning step after use. For the relevant LatteCrema models, De’Longhi says to clean the system after every milk-based drink.
If you make milk-based drinks often, read the maintenance instructions for the model. You could also compare the steps involved with using a steam wand.
Que Choisir says limescale can build up in the pipes and block the nozzles. Philips recommends descaling SENSEO machines every three months.
Check the model’s manual for the procedure, the approved descaling product and any guidance based on how you use the machine.
Nespresso offers capsule systems including Original and Vertuo. The brand describes Vertuo as covering several drink sizes, from espresso to a mug.
SENSEO offers a soft coffee pod system for making individual servings.
De’Longhi offers manual portafilter machines as well as automatic bean-to-cup models, so your first decision is how hands-on you want to be.
These models make coffee automatically from beans. To choose between them for regular use, focus on how they make milk-based drinks, which drinks you want and what’s involved in maintenance.
Image unavailable
For a bean-to-cup routine that includes milk-based drinks, this model combines a grinder with the LatteGo system. If you have a particular drink in mind, check the menu for the EP2230/10 variant and its maintenance instructions.
Image unavailable
This bean-to-cup espresso machine is suited to a household that wants to make coffee regularly without using a portafilter. If you’d also like to froth milk, check the preparation and cleaning steps for the ECAM220.21.WW variant.
Image unavailable
The built-in grinder makes this model a good fit for regular coffee made from beans. Before choosing this variant, check that it will fit on your worktop and find out how it makes milk-based drinks.
Image unavailable
If you like to switch up your drinks during the week, the H16’s product description lists six types of coffee and a touchscreen. Check the available recipes and how to clean the milk system before choosing this model.
Image unavailable
The LatteCrema system makes this variant a good choice if your household regularly enjoys milk-based drinks. Check which drinks it actually makes and follow the carafe cleaning instructions for the ECAM290.61.B model.
Check the system listed on the product page and in the manual, then choose portions designed for that system. Que Choisir says that most capsule machine brands accept only one type of capsule; Nespresso, for example, has separate Original and Vertuo systems.
It can be a good choice if you make coffee frequently, want to use beans and prefer a more automated process. Check the capacity, available drinks and maintenance requirements for the model rather than assuming these features based on the grinder alone.
Check the instructions for the milk system on the specific model. For the relevant LatteCrema machines, De’Longhi says to clean the system after every milk-based drink. An automatic function doesn’t mean you can skip the instructions.
Philips recommends descaling SENSEO machines every three months. On models with a CALC indicator, a light can let you know when it’s due. Check the manual for the procedure and approved descaling product.
Check the support information and spare parts availability for the specific model. For example, the French product page for the De’Longhi Stilosa EC260.BK says spare parts are available for two years from the date of purchase. Nespresso also provides a support and repair service for its machines.