First choose the system based on how much time you are prepared to spend on each coffee and on cleaning. Then check the available space and the ongoing cost of consumables. Capsules and pods suit portioned preparations, while a portafilter requires more hands-on steps. A grinder involves a higher investment and regular maintenance; according to Que Choisir, its cost per cup can be two to three times lower than that of a pod espresso.
If you mainly prepare one cup at a time and want a compact, easy-to-use appliance, a capsule machine could be a good choice, provided you are happy with its consumable format and running costs. Que Choisir lists size, simplicity and cost per coffee among the key selection criteria.
An automatic grinder is suited to households that want to prepare coffee at the touch of a button using beans, and are happy to allow more space for the machine as well as carrying out rinsing and descaling. According to Que Choisir, the cost per cup from a grinder can be lower than that of a pod espresso.
A portafilter machine is suitable if you are prepared to measure the coffee, handle the portafilter and clean it after use in exchange for having more control over the preparation. Darty states that manual machines require skill and time.
Start by comparing the preparation format, then consider maintenance and the drinks you genuinely want to make at home.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Simplicity and footprint | Compare the preparation format, dimensions, tank capacity and the steps needed to make a cup. Also check that the speed and refill frequency suit your routine. | I want to make coffee quickly without cluttering the worktop. A portioned preparation could be convenient if the consumable format suits me. |
| Running costs | Add the cost of compatible coffee, capsules or pods, descaler and any filter specified for the model to the purchase price. For a grinder, also compare the cost of beans with your usual consumption. | I want to avoid an appliance that is affordable to buy becoming expensive over time. Que Choisir states that a grinder can have a cost per cup two to three times lower than a pod espresso, although the initial investment is higher. |
| Maintenance | Check the removable parts, access to the coffee-grounds container or brewing unit, depending on the model, the descaling alerts and the procedure to follow. A steam wand also needs rinsing after use. | I can accept a few regular tasks, but I want to know what they are before buying. Cleaning is particularly important with a grinder, brewing unit or milk system. |
| Milk-based drinks | Check whether it has a steam wand, frother or milk carafe, as well as the cleaning required. Do not assume that the term “espresso machine” alone means it can make cappuccinos. | I would like to make cappuccinos or lattes at home. I check that the milk system suits how hands-on I want to be and the rinsing routine I am prepared to follow. |
A capsule machine may be affordable initially, but consumables have a major effect on running costs. By contrast, a grinder requires a larger investment; Que Choisir nevertheless states that its cost per cup is lower than that of a pod espresso.
Calculate the cost based on your actual consumption and include compatible coffee as well as the necessary maintenance products.
Also allow for the time spent choosing and replacing consumables, descaling and, depending on the model, changing the filter.
An automatic grinder simplifies preparation, but the containers need regular rinsing and descaling must be carried out when required. Que Choisir also recommends rinsing the steam wand after making a milk-based drink.
Before choosing, check the removable parts, access to the brewing unit where present, descaling alerts and the tasks described in the instructions.
Maintenance involves regular rinsing, possible cleaning of the brewing unit and time to run descaling cycles.
A milk function depends on the presence of a steam wand, frother or compatible carafe. These components also need cleaning after use.
Check the precise model’s milk system and rinsing procedure before choosing a machine for cappuccinos or lattes.
Most capsule machines accept just one format. In France, ADEME states that aluminium or plastic capsules should be placed in the packaging recycling stream; paper capsules can be composted where the local solution allows it.
Confirm the accepted format, the availability of consumables and the recycling or composting option available near you.
Joybuy options for regular home espresso, including grinder machines and a soft-pod machine.
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For households that want espresso and milk-based drinks with automated preparation.
Advertised features include a grinder, five one-touch drinks, a 1.8 L tank and a LatteCrema carafe. Dimensions: 240 x 440 x 360 mm; check that you have enough space on your worktop.
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Worth considering if you want to vary your coffees and milk-based drinks with saved settings.
Advertised features include a conical grinder with 15 settings, a 4.3-inch touchscreen, a 1.5 L tank and six drinks. Check the precise drink selection, milk system and cleaning tasks before buying.
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A soft-pod option for making one or two cups in a kitchen where space is limited.
Features include a 1.2 L tank, strength selector, Memo function and two pod holders. It uses SENSEO pods; check their availability and cost, as well as what you need for milk-based drinks.
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For regular espresso made from beans and manually prepared milk-based drinks.
Features include a grinder with 13 settings, a 1.8 L tank, Espresso, Coffee and Doppio+ recipes, and the ability to prepare two coffees at once. The steam wand requires manual operation and suitable cleaning.
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A grinder machine for households that alternate between coffee beans and pre-ground coffee.
Advertised features include an integrated grinder, one- or two-cup selection, a 1.8 L tank, an integrated water filter and a steam wand. Milk-based drinks require manual use of the wand; check the footprint and maintenance instructions.
Yes. ADEME states that aluminium or plastic capsules should go in the recycling bin, bag or container for paper and packaging. Paper capsules can be composted at home, in a shared composting scheme or through a food-waste collection service where one is available near you.
First follow the model’s alert and instructions. Que Choisir recommends descaling when the appliance asks you to and, in its general guide, mentions an average frequency of every two to three months depending on water hardness and usage.
Not necessarily. An automatic grinder makes preparation easy after filling, but it requires regular rinsing of the containers and, depending on the model, the brewing unit, as well as descaling when requested by the machine.
Check that the machine has a steam wand, frother or milk carafe. Also check the cleaning required: Que Choisir recommends thoroughly rinsing the steam wand after every use.
France’s Repair Bonus may apply to certain electrical and electronic appliances when the product and fault are eligible and the repair is carried out by an approved repairer. Check the applicable list when the breakdown occurs.