A coffee machine is a kitchen appliance that will make your morning invigorating. Such a device was previously often found exclusively in offices, cafes and bars. Now coffee machines have become more affordable, and modern manufacturers produce various models and variations of the device. Automatic coffee machines are considered one of the most popular and practical. This kitchen appliance will simplify the process of preparing your favorite espresso; perhaps, thanks to additional functions, you will be able to enjoy a delicate latte or cappuccino at home. We will talk about the features of choosing a coffee machine later in the article, consider the key criteria for selecting the optimal models, and dwell on the rating of the best in this segment.
Which coffee machine is better to buy for your home?
In machines for home use: grain, capsule, pod coffee. Despite the fact that capsule models are now very popular, automatic coffee machines with a traditional drink preparation system are more suitable for home use . The main reason is that using capsules will simply be more expensive, while bean coffee will last for a longer period, and it still has a rich and natural taste.
The best coffee machine for home use is one that combines functionality and stylish appearance.
Moreover, this is a device that will meet all your requirements. The demand for these household appliances is steadily growing, so manufacturers are constantly improving technology to satisfy customers' needs for high-quality coffee equipment. By and large, an improved device for making coffee combines a coffee grinder and a coffee maker. And depending on the features of the model, bean or ground coffee is used.
Reliability
This is one of the most important indicators that should be taken into account when choosing a coffee machine for your home, because it determines how long the coffee machine will serve you. Coffee machines that allow you to prepare almost any coffee drink and are produced by fairly well-known brands are considered reliable. That is why these devices are deservedly popular among coffee connoisseurs.
These machines meet all modern requirements for coffee equipment and last a long time.
Quality
The quality of the resulting drink and the quality of the machine used also play an important role when choosing a coffee maker. As you understand, good coffee equipment is made from high-quality materials that are safe for human health.
It’s better to think three times before purchasing coffee equipment from an unknown supplier, because it may not meet your expectations.
Price
The cost of a coffee machine for most buyers is one of the most important factors influencing their choice. Affordable filling machines are perfect for use at home.
In general, the price of an automatic coffee machine is influenced by a large number of different factors: the presence of a programming system, an LCD display, a second boiler that allows you to simultaneously prepare espresso and cappuccino, and the productivity of the coffee machine.
The simplest devices are sold at prices ranging from 5 to 10 thousand rubles; they usually do not have much functionality. The middle price segment includes coffee machines costing 15-40 thousand rubles. These machines are considered optimal in terms of quality/price ratio.
Cappuccino maker options
Office coffee machines with the ability to make cappuccino automatically are very popular. Many people prefer milk-containing drinks to regular espresso or Americano. However, this also has its own characteristics. which affect the cost of the device.
The most expensive models are equipped with a built-in cappuccino maker. The steamed or hot milk program allows you to brew a delicious cappuccino or latte at the touch of a button. Some models allow you to prepare two cups of drink at the same time. These features significantly affect the price of the coffee machine.
In the mid-price category, there are models in which cappuccino can be prepared in a semi-automatic mode . that is, in order to get a portion of such a drink, you need to move the cup. Having selected the cappuccino preparation program, frothed milk is first poured into the container from the supply unit, and then the cup must be placed under the coffee dispensing unit, which the machine will signal. This takes a little longer than with fully automatic mode, but allows you to save on the cost of the device.
The cheapest models with the ability to make cappuccino can hardly be called automatic , but the manufacturer positions them as such. The entire automation of the process consists in the fact that the milk is foamed and heated in the machine, and drinks containing it must be prepared independently. However, you can control the taste of the prepared drink yourself by choosing the volume of milk as you wish. And such models are much cheaper.
Price
A coffee machine is an expensive pleasure, so before you decide to buy, you should think about whether you need it or can you get by with a budget coffee maker? If the decision is made in favor of an improved device, you should move on to choosing devices from different price segments :
- the cost of budget models starts from 20,000 rubles;
- Electrical appliances for brewing coffee in the mid-price category include coffee machines costing from 35,000 rubles;
- devices with advanced functionality will cost much more – from 70,000 rubles.
For your information! Information about how much a coffee machine costs is determined by the level of automation, the presence or absence of a cappuccino maker, the number of boilers, body material and external design.
First place: Philips HD 8828 coffee machine
The Philips HD 8828 automatic coffee machine is a very good solution in the class of inexpensive devices with a fully automatic cappuccino maker.
Designed for preparing espresso, espresso lungo and cappuccino.
The model features a simple and strict design, made in black color scheme. Compact size and dimensions ensure ease of installation. The control panel contains quick preparation buttons where you can program your favorite drinks.
In terms of functionality, the model is indistinguishable from machines of the more expensive Saeco class: all the same characteristics (15 bar pump, brewing group, built-in coffee grinder, automatic cappuccino maker with a separate milk jug, automatic rinsing system) at a much more affordable price.
The coffee machine manufacturer is Romania.
Functions
Coffee maker functions:
- Built-in coffee grinder with 100% ceramic millstones for five grinding levels.
- Automatic preparation of cappuccino.
- Prepare two cups of coffee at the same time.
- Steam option.
- Pre-brewing system.
- Boiling water option.
- Automatic system cleaning.
- Programming function.
- Function of squeezing out residual moisture.
- Automatic decalcification.
- Filming brewing group.
- Waste container capacity: 15 servings.
- Maximum cup height: 15.2 centimeters.
- Removable water tank.
- Lack of water indicator.
- No grain indicator.
- Hot water supply.
- Automatic descaling cycle.
- Automatic jug cleaning.
- Automatic rinse cycle.
- One distribution group.
Customizable characteristics for each drink:
- Adjusting the coffee strength.
- Adjustable temperature.
- Adjusting the volume of the drink.
The wide functionality of the Philips HD 8828 automatic coffee machine ensures maximum ease of use and good quality coffee.
Peculiarities
Model features:
- Suitable for beans and ground coffee.
- function for removing dirt and scale. The coffee machine automatically cleans the coffee circuits with water before turning on and off, so your coffee will always be fresh and aromatic. In addition, regular descaling will extend the life of your coffee machine. The coffee machine will not only inform you when descaling is necessary, but will also help you do it with clear messages on the screen.
- Removable brew group – the brew group is accessible from the side panel. Easily removed in one movement.
- Fully automated coffee preparation process, including cappuccino maker. Hot cappuccino is prepared at the touch of a button thanks to the built-in milk jug. A special jug prevents milk from splashing; its design promotes the formation of dense, fine foam, ideal for cappuccino.
- Adjustable grind settings for the perfect coffee taste - Five levels of coffee grind - from the finest (for a rich, strong espresso) to the coarsest for a lighter taste.
- Adjustable settings for temperature, volume and strength of the drink make it possible to prepare the perfect coffee according to personal preferences. The memory function allows you to store a different volume for each drink.
- Intuitive display for easy operation of the coffee machine, showing all the necessary information. Buttons on the front panel indicate specific coffee drinks.
- The adjustable coffee spout allows you to use a cup of any size for preparing a drink, including a 15 cm high latte macchiato glass. The position of the spout can be adjusted with one movement.
Advantages
Advantages of the model:
- Fast and fully automated coffee preparation process
- Economical water consumption.
- Good value for money.
- Convenient access from above to the water tank
- Thanks to its compact design, it does not take up much space.
- High capacity tanks: water tank - 1.8 l, milk jug - 0.5 l, grain container - 250 g, waste container - up to 15 servings. Capacious containers for grains and waste, a large water tank do not require frequent filling or emptying.
- Easy to clean and maintain the coffee machine, significantly increasing the usability of the device.
- The coffee machine is as easy as possible to operate. The user manual contains accessible and detailed step-by-step instructions.
- Almost silent operation.
- Energy saving mode.
- Convenient display with backlit buttons.
Flaws
Main disadvantages:
- No timer.
- No pressure gauge.
- No panel for heating cups.
- Lack of auto shut-off function.
- Inability to heat cups and reservoir.
- Inability to illuminate cups.
Video review
Video presentation of the device in the video below:
Results
The Philips HD8828 model is distinguished by its wide functionality , ease of use and the ability to quickly prepare basic coffee drinks, while the coffee maker produces truly high-quality coffee.
An additional advantage is the simple but at the same time stylish design, compactness and small size of the coffee machine. Philips HD8828 is one of the most affordable models with an automatic cappuccino maker with a built-in milk jug. It is worth noting that it froths milk no worse than its much more expensive competitors.
The coffee machine is optimal for home use in a family of 4-6 people. A spacious tank, economical water consumption, and a fully automated coffee preparation process make the model suitable for use in a small office.
For professional use in coffee shops with high traffic, it will be inconvenient due to the lack of connection to the water supply and the presence of only one dispensing group.
This device takes first place in our rating! In our opinion, this representative has the best price/quality ratio.
What to look for when choosing a coffee machine
To choose a good coffee machine, you need to take into account not only the type of bean processing, but also some less significant parameters. They allow you to determine the performance of the device and what drinks it can create. The list of the most important parameters includes:
- The power should be 700-1000 W, the most advanced models can be adjusted manually;
- Automatic control allows you to brew coffee faster than usual;
- The cappuccino machine allows you to create a pleasant foam from whipped milk, which is necessary for preparing many drinks;
- The built-in coffee grinder can operate both manually and remotely;
- Consider the grinding regulator : it is he who will control the strength of the coffee or coffee drink;
- The capacity of the liquid container is liter for home coffee machines or 1250 milliliters for office coffee makers.
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Second place: Delonghi ECAM 22.360 coffee machine
Compact automatic coffee machine ECAM22.360.S in a silver housing, equipped with the patented De'Longhi automatic system for preparing excellent cappuccino at the touch of a button.
The coffee machine has a 2-line text display that allows you to customize settings according to your individual preferences, a heated cup holder and a water purification filter.
This is one of the most automated models that will allow you to adjust most parameters to your personal requirements - such as grinding degree, water hardness and drink temperature.
It seems that this model provides everything for the ideal preparation of your favorite drinks and the use of the machine itself:
- automatic warnings that the machine needs to be washed,
- preparing high quality ristretto,
- espresso and cappuccino, the taste of which will satisfy any gourmet, at the press of one button,
- storing milk in the refrigerator and auto shut-off.
Country of origin: Italy
Functions
Model features:
- automatic coffee preparation (ground/bean);
- automatic cappuccino preparation;
- prepare two cups of coffee at the same time;
- automatic flushing of the system;
- automatic decalcification;
- energy saving;
- water level indicator;
- coffee strength control;
- grinding degree adjustment;
- coffee temperature adjustment;
- water hardness adjustment;
- adjusting the portion of hot water;
- hot water supply;
- heating cups;
- preliminary wetting of grains;
- power-on indication;
- auto shutdown
Peculiarities
Key Features:
- energy saving;
- built-in coffee grinder with the ability to adjust the degree of grinding;
- Patented Autocappuccino system: preparing cappuccino by pressing one button;
- automatic rinsing cappuccino maker
Advantages
Main advantages:
- Thermoblock, which allows you to prepare coffee as quickly as possible; the mechanism is less susceptible to scale deposits or corrosion, and coffee prepared using a thermoblock is more delicious than coffee from a boiler - this is an important point for gourmets and fine connoisseurs of the pure taste of coffee;
- compact design and at the same time sufficient volume of all containers for home use;
- built-in coffee grinder with adjustment to 13 grinding levels;
- convenient two-line display with backlight;
- sound confirmation of button presses;
- timer;
- removable tray for collecting drops;
- waste container;
- Reminder about the need to rinse the cappuccino maker;
- automatic washing of the cappuccino maker
- Possibility of installing coffee cups with heights from 86 to 142 mm
- coffee container that preserves aroma;
- patented "Auto-cappuccino" system: preparing the perfect cappuccino by pressing one button;
- setting all drink parameters: amount of water per cup, strength, temperature;
- the coffee temperature can be scalding hot, which not all models can boast of;
- adjustable water hardness;
- quiet;
- removable milk tank allows you to store it in the refrigerator;
- The cooking unit can be easily removed and washed under the tap.
All possible machine settings will fully satisfy all the needs of even the most sophisticated consumer. In addition to these significant advantages, this coffee machine is easy to operate and has a convenient and intuitive interface.
Flaws
The stand doesn't fit a Starbucks cup. However, some disadvantages still stand out:
- no pressure gauge;
- lack of an anti-drip system;
- Some owners feel that the machine takes a long time to prepare for work after turning it on: it warms up for about 1 minute and washes;
- minor drawbacks include the not very convenient water tank; it has only one handle, on the side, but holding a full tank by it is not very convenient;
- when turned on and off, it performs flushing, as a result of which it drains a little water from the valves onto the pan;
- It’s inconvenient to add ground coffee;
- Some users note that the cappuccino is not very hot.
Video review
Video instructions on setting up this device in the video:
Instructions for setting the time on your coffee machine in the video:
Instructions for cleaning the machine are in the video below:
Results
For many coffee connoisseurs, this coffee machine has become the embodiment of the idea of tasty and “convenient” coffee. Firstly, this machine prepares excellent coffee at the touch of a button. Secondly, it is almost completely automated, as much as possible.
The machine provides such pleasant but important “little things” as more than 10 degrees of grain grinding, for every taste and color, making cappuccino with one button and adjusting and setting everything that is possible on an intuitive display.
In addition to delicious coffee and other things, users especially note the high quality of the resulting milk foam, which not every model can boast of. Therefore, if your favorite coffee is cappuccino or latte, then this model is for you.
It is also recommended for those who value time the most - the automation of this machine allows you to practically not be distracted from your work - it will take about two minutes and pressing just a couple of buttons to get a cup of aromatic and very tasty coffee.
We decided to give this machine second place, the price of the device is too high, you can fork out for yourself, but there are also more optimal price/quality options.
Fortress control
Many coffee machines allow you to adjust the strength of the drink based on personal preferences. Strength control is carried out by changing the water temperature, liquid flow rate or the number of ground beans per serving.
The coffee maker has a built-in aroma selector. This selector allows you to adjust the strength of the drink, taking into account the personal preferences of users. There are usually two strength settings: “strong” and “mild” coffee. Depending on the model, the coffee strength is controlled differently.
In more expensive models, adjustment occurs due to a special brewing system (to obtain a strong drink, hot water passes through the center of the filter, and when brewing lighter coffee, it passes both through the center and along the walls).
In cheaper models - by changing the water temperature , liquid flow rate or the number of ground beans per serving.
Strength adjustment can be done manually (in cheaper models), for each drink separately, or can be selected in the menu by pressing the corresponding button (in more expensive models).
Model | Power, W) | Dimensions cm (WxHxD) | Volume (l) | |
Jura Z6 | 1450 | 32x38x45 | 2.4 | More details |
WMF 1000 | 2300 | 38x41x45 | 2.8 | More details |
WMF Bistro! (Editor's Choice) | 3300 | 45x75x55 | 4 | More details |
Saeco Royal Coffee Bar | 2300 | 40x46x39 | 2.4 | More details |
Third place: DeLonghi Nespresso Lattissima+ EN 520 coffee machine
Capsule coffee machine Nespresso De'Longhi "Lattissima+" EN 520, made in a modern design and equipped with a patented automatic cappuccino preparation system De'Longhi.
At the touch of a button you get all your favorite drinks: espresso, cappuccino and latte macchiato. Black color. The combination of compactness and pleasant appearance characteristic of DeLonghi devices. The DeLonghi EN 520 R Lattissima+ capsule coffee machine is the best assistant in preparing aromatic coffee. The operation of the device is automated and has a high power of 1300 W. Thanks to this, creating your favorite drink will take just a few minutes. The pump generates a pressure of 19 bar.
This machine model is very easy to use. The heating process occurs in less than 60 seconds. The device has a spacious water tank and a milk container. Using the eco-timer, you can program automatic shutdown. All drink selection buttons are illuminated. There is a special compartment for compact cable storage.
Functions
The DeLonghi Lattissima+ EN 520 R coffee maker is equipped with the NESPRESSO system . Its essence is in preparing coffee drinks using coffee capsules. Due to the fact that the capsules are hermetically sealed, a rich taste and tart aroma will always be provided. After preparing your drink, the capsule is removed into a waste container that holds ten of them.
Main characteristics:
- patented IFD system for automatically preparing cappuccino, latte macchiato, hot milk directly into the cup;
- quick warm-up in 40 seconds;
- The milk container (0.35 l) can be stored in the refrigerator after preparation;
- backlit drink selection keys (cappuccino, latte macchiato, espresso, lungo coffee, hot milk or hot water);
- setting and storing drink parameters: amount of milk and coffee per cup;
- adjustable drip tray for placing coffee cups and coffee glasses for latte macchiato;
- convenient capsule installation system;
- pressure 19 bar;
- automatic ejection of capsules;
- container for used capsules (10 pieces);
- removable water tank (0.9 l);
- convenient cord storage;
- storage compartment for water nozzle;
- automatic shutdown 9 minutes after the last portion of coffee has been prepared (adjustable from 30 minutes to 8 hours);
- energy class A.
This device is equipped with a cup holder that can be adjusted . This means you can use almost any size cup: a small coffee cup or even a tall latte macchiato glass.
Peculiarities
Patented Autocappuccino System (IFD) - The patented IFD system allows you to get a great cappuccino or latte macchiato, with the ability to choose the density of milk foam. Automatic flushing of the system from milk residues. After use, the container can be stored in the refrigerator.
Nespresso System - Nespresso has developed a unique capsule-based espresso system that ensures all the parameters needed to produce great coffee are met.
The price of this model also means you can prepare a delicious drink with milk: cappuccino or latte macchiato. This happens using the patented Autocappuccino (IFD) . Press one button and the process is started. Just place the cup and start cooking, the result is a ready-made drink.
Advantages
Main advantages of the model:
- Small sizes;
- Beautiful design;
- Whips up excellent high foam;
- Brews delicious coffee;
- Not too loud;
- Works quickly;
- Convenient and easy to use;
- Minimum maintenance costs;
- You can use different types of coffee;
- Built-in milk preparation system.
Flaws
There are few disadvantages, these include:
- Working with an automatic cappuccino maker requires a lot of steps;
- Expensive original capsules;
- From time to time, you need to completely disassemble and wash all the parts of the cappuccino maker so that the milk always froths and does not flow in a hot stream.
Video review
Description and review of this coffee maker in the video below:
Presentation of the advantages of the coffee machine in the video below:
Results
If you are not afraid of the price of the device itself and the cost of the capsules, then there were no other complaints about the work. The machine is easy to operate, not too difficult to maintain, and makes milk foam and lattes on its own.
The device operates quite quietly, the sound level does not force you to go to another room for a telephone conversation. There is also, of course, the eternal debate between sharp- and blunt-edged people about the choice of capsule manufacturer. If you like Nespresso capsules or don’t see the difference, then there’s no problem for you either.
But negative user reviews are information for thoughtful study. There are no fewer positive comments online than negative ones, but the truth, as usual, lies somewhere on the side.
DeLonghi EN 520 makes a cup of drink in 27 seconds. The coffee is rich, with a strong foam (cream) on the surface.
Everything else that can be said about the taste depends on the user’s actions: the choice of capsules, the programmable volume of ingredients, the quality of water. By the way, the device accepts non-original capsules, but does not throw them into the container for used capsules - you will have to remove them yourself and throw them away one at a time.
The operation of the cappuccino maker depends on the quality of the milk. The system must be filled with sterilized milk cooled to 4 °C. If this condition is met and the milk has sufficient fat content, we get a fairly strong, high foam.
The third place was given due to the fact that the device is a capsule device, the high cost of capsules will eventually lead to increased costs and, consequently, the low price of the device will increase several times.
Advantages
The advantages of automatic coffee machines over other types of coffee makers are undeniable, especially when installed in an office. The machine performs all processes related to the preparation of coffee drinks independently.
The user's responsibilities include only timely replenishment of coffee and water supplies and periodic cleaning of the device. However, in a large group, in order to satisfy everyone’s tastes, the coffee machine must be equipped with a high-pressure pump and the ability to select the strength of the drink.
conclusions
Delonghi ECAM 22.360 - a large water tank, the ability to quickly prepare a large number of cups of coffee, automatic shutdown and automation of all processes are perfect for the office. DeLonghi EN 520 R Lattissima makes coffee like in good coffee shops, so it is suitable for everyday household use. It is ideal for use in cafes, bars and other establishments of this kind. Philips HD8828 is a good budget option for home and office.
Our rating of the best coffee makers (as, indeed, all ratings) is quite subjective and will most likely be of interest to coffee lovers who appreciate an amazing drink and are not ready to spend big.
The presented devices are, in our opinion, the most successful coffee makers in terms of price, quality and capabilities presented.
We sincerely hope that you will be able to find exactly the coffee maker that will become indispensable for you early in the morning at home or in the office. Enjoy the shopping!
Popular manufacturers
To be sure of the reliability and safety of the device, experts advise purchasing coffee machines presented by large companies.
Well-known companies provide a full range of warranty service for their products , which is an undoubted advantage and allows the user not to worry about possible breakdowns.
Leading positions in the domestic market are occupied by:
- Bosch.
- Philips.
- De Longhi.
- Saeco.
- Melitta.
- Jura.
- Kenwood.
By the way! You should buy equipment only from trusted retail outlets - this will help protect yourself from counterfeiting, and if it is defective, exchange the device for a new one.
The best capsule coffee maker for the office
Delonghi EN 125 S
A coffee machine with a solid appearance will look good somewhere in the office, despite the small volume of the water tank. It works with Nespresso capsules and is not cheap (12,000 rubles). You can select the volume of water to prepare espresso (40 ml, button with a small cup) and lungo (110 ml, button with a larger cup). To program the coffee machine for the desired volume of water, you need to press and hold the start button. It turns off automatically after 9 minutes of inactivity (this time can be increased to half an hour), and warms up in just 25 seconds. Automatically sends used capsules to the container. For some reason, the capsule container is equipped with neon lighting.
Price: ₽ 10,450
The best premium capsule coffee maker
1. KitchenAid 5KES0503EAC Artisan Nespresso
Coffee machine for Nespresso capsules. Like all KitchenAid products - good quality, beautiful, heavy and insanely expensive (47,000 rubles). Finally, a normal water tank of almost one and a half liters. Six levels of cup volume adjustment. The case with a magnificent retro style design is made of aluminum alloy - this handsome guy weighs 8.5 kilos, about the same as all previous coffee makers combined. And it costs exactly twice as much. But just look at the colors, the curves and the awesome capsule piercing handle! A true coffee lover's dream.
Price: ₽ 40,790
The best capsule coffee maker with cappuccino function
Krups KP 1208 Mini Me
A coffee machine that works with Dolce Gusto capsules already costs 5,000 rubles. In addition to the power button, there are two control elements. Use the water quantity selector to select the level indicated on the coffee capsule, and use the lever to choose between hot and cold water. A 0.8 liter water tank is not much, but enough for the home. There is no descaling function, but there is an auto shut-off. To make a cappuccino or other complex drink, you need to use two capsules: one with coffee and one with milk. Not very convenient, but allows an inexpensive device to prepare good coffee with excellent foam. The appearance is a little strange, but this can be said about all Krups coffee makers from this series, it’s a matter of taste.
Price: ₽ 4,890
How to choose a cappuccino maker
The choice of foaming agent depends on the individual needs of each person. If you don’t particularly like coffee with milk and don’t drink it often, then you don’t have to buy an expensive coffee machine with an automatic cappuccino system. You can get by with a drip coffee maker and a mechanical beater.
For a family where there are several connoisseurs of coffee and milk drinks, it would, of course, be more practical to purchase a coffee maker with a built-in cappuccino maker.
Automatic cappuccino maker or manual – which is better?
The function of fully automatic preparation of milk froth is available in a full-fledged coffee machine and in a carob-type coffee maker. There are also cheaper coffee machines with a manual frother. Let's try to objectively evaluate which design is better.
The built-in automated cappuccino maker does not require any action from the user other than loading all the necessary components (coffee, milk, water). Next, just place the cups for the drink and press the necessary buttons. There is no need to control the foam level or monitor the process - the machine does everything on its own.
A coffee machine with a manual frother (panarello) requires participation and attention: you need to correctly calculate the volume of the glass and the milk poured into it so that the foam does not run over the edge. It is also necessary to hold the glass during the entire process so that the tube is constantly in the milk. If suddenly the foam overflows, you can burn your hand, because it will be hot.
And although many do not find any difficulties with a manual cappuccino maker, an automatic one is still much more convenient. For those who value comfort, automated devices are recommended. Many coffee machines have settings that allow you to select the density of the foam and its quantity.