Millie Fender
The best coffee machines come in all shapes and sizes: espresso machines will make you feel like a barista; pod machines offer easy, speedy coffee; and cafetieres and drip machines offer simple, delicious brews. Whichever one you choose, I've found the perfect one for you.
As a former barista, I have high standards for what a good coffee machine should look like. Over the last two years, I've tested over 150 coffee machines so that I could narrow them down to the best nine.
The ones in the list below are all easy and intuitive to use (even if you're a beginner), durably built, and they make delicious coffee. The best ones will have a little extra something, such as milk frother, coffee grinder, and smart technology to help you make the best brew possible. Below, you have my barista's guarantee.
The quick list
Best overall
Of all the coffee machines our expert has tested, this is the one she's kept in her kitchen. Combining the best of automated functions with the charm of a manual barista-level machine, the Oracle Jet does all the fiddly bits for you.
Best for beginners
Sage's Bambino is the brand's most affordable machine, but it still features the revered high-tech brewing you'll find in much more expensive models. It heats up fast, powerfully steams milk, and takes up a fraction of the space of most espresso machines.
Best pod
If you want that coffee-shop-from-home experience in a pod machine, look no further than the LavazzaA Modo Mio Deséa. It has an in-built milk frother that will prep your milk and pour your espresso in one go, and the sleek and compact design is a winner for smaller homes.
Best espresso machine
This smart, techy-looking espresso machine offers up all the manual controls that a barista might want, but with aids to help beginners. You can make everything from an oat milk cappuccino through to a cold brew in here.
Best under £100
Using the best of Nespresso's Vertuo technology, the Pop is a neat little pod machine that delivers on flavour and offers a huge range of drink options. Best of all, there's just one button, making this a foolproof choice.
Best filter machine
Loved by the American market, Moccamaster has quickly become one of our favourite machines upon launching in the UK last year. That eye-catching midcentury design is a surefire talking point, and it makes a fantastic fuss-free filter brew to get you through the day. Great for those who love a long coffee.
Load 3 more products ↓
Best bean to cup
With two interchangeable bean hoppers and automatic milk steaming, this bean to cup machine sensitively grinds and brews your coffee, and learns your preferences as it goes. We love the look of this modern machine, but with 19-bar extraction and seven pre-set drink options, it's not just a pretty face.
Best cafetiere
If you don't want to deal with plugs and screens, you can't beat a cafetiere (also known as a French press). Bodum's is inexpensive and yet technically flawless - delivering rich, slightly acidic brews every time.
Best portable
Designed for the morning commute or your holidays, the AeroPress is essentially a compact blend of all the best coffee brewing methods. You can get an espresso-like drink, a cold brew, and a normal filter coffee from this and it's smaller than a bottle of water.
The best coffee machines of 2025, tested and approved by a qualified barista
Best coffee machine overall
Sage is having a bit of a moment when it comes to the best coffee machines. And no, this isn’t sponsored. All my reviews are totally independent, but as a barista, I have a lot of respect for Sage’s engineering and design.
My favourite luxury pick has to be the Sage Oracle Jet. It strikes the perfect balance between manual control and smart automation. You can tweak the grind size, temperature, and shot volume to your heart’s content, but if you’re more of a beginner, the machine has clever built-in settings to guide you based on your milk type, coffee order, and beans.
Honestly, I was reluctant to part with it after a few weeks of testing. It looks sleek and impressive on the counter, and it makes a flawless espresso in just 20 seconds. Behind the scenes, it’s doing all the smart things: pre-infusing the coffee to reduce acidity, adjusting the grind and extraction pressure automatically, and using a PID system to precisely control water temperature.
Is it pricey? Yes. Big? Also yes. But if you want a true barista-style experience at home, it’s absolutely worth clearing some space for.
Read more in my full Sage Oracle Jet Coffee machine review
Best coffee machine for beginners
You might be surprised to see Sage’s most affordable espresso machine ranking so highly, but ask any barista and they'll tell you the Sage Bambino Plus is genuinely one of the best. It nails everything I look for: great value, compact size, café-quality coffee, and controls that are super beginner-friendly.
It’s often called an “entry-level” machine, but most of the baristas I know actually own one. That’s because Sage has packed it with the same smart tech as its pricier models. It pre-infuses the coffee to smooth out acidity, heats up in just three seconds thanks to its ThermoJet system, and extracts at a perfect 9 bars of pressure using water at 93°C.
There are buttons to help you steam milk and pull shots with no fuss (ideal if you’re just getting started) but there’s also plenty of scope for more advanced tinkering. Both Emily (one of our other coffee experts) and I love it, and we’ve found the espresso it makes is spot-on, every time.
The only catch is that it doesn’t have a built-in grinder, so things can get a little messy. And if you’re happy steaming milk manually, you could save money by going for the standard Bambino instead of the Plus.
Read more in my full review of the Sage Bambino Plus
Best espresso machine
After testing over 150 coffee machines in the past couple of years, this is the one I actually bought for myself: the De’Longhi La Specialista Maestro. So why isn’t it top of the list? Simply because coffee is personal. While this is one of the best machines out there, I know espresso machines aren’t for everyone. But for me, this one ticks all the boxes.
It reminds me a lot of the Sage Oracle Jet: both give you the hands-on feel of a manual machine with helpful automation built in. You still get to play barista, but without the steep learning curve.
Here’s how it works: you select your coffee type and grind setting using the sleek, dial-style controls. The machine then grinds, helps tamp, and brews for you. You’ll need to texture your own milk (so get practicing that latte art), but it does a lot of the heavy lifting.
Everything I’ve made on this machine all my espressos, long blacks, cappuccinos have been delicious. Even the cold brew function is a game changer, serving up smooth coffee in five minutes instead of 24 hours.
It is big, and not the simplest option for beginners, which is why the Sage Bambino Plus pips it for ease. But for serious coffee lovers it’s nothing but brilliant.
Read more in my full review of the De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro
Best pod coffee machine
I’ll be honest, when I set out to find the best pod machine, I was 99% sure it would be a Nespresso. They’re the go-to for capsule coffee, and with good reason. In fact, I have included one in my round-up (it’s the best under £100), but the Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa has stolen the show.
What really won me over is the flavour. Lavazza’s capsules are all eco-friendly and come in a wide range of expertly roasted blends. It’s Italian coffee at its best, with balanced, nuanced flavours that genuinely surprised me.
You’ll notice from my pictures that there are a lot of buttons, but that’s because the Deséa can brew a wide variety of drinks, from espressos to Americanos, just the way you like them.
What gave it the edge over Nespresso, though, is the integrated milk frother. It works hands-free with both hot and cold milk (even plant-based ones like oat and almond) and you can control the temperature and texture. Just plug in the carafe and let it do its thing.
It is a little pricier than some pod machines, but for the quality, variety, and style, the Deséa is a dream.
Read more in my full Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa Coffee Machine review
Best coffee machine under £100
As promised, Nespresso makes its appearance. And even with my slightly snobby barista standards, I think the Nespresso Vertuo Pop is brilliant. It’s one of the cheapest models Nespresso makes, but it’s still my top pick for a budget coffee machine.
It’s tiny (just 5.5 inches wide), made from 45% recycled plastic, and comes in loads of bright and neutral colours to suit any kitchen. Despite its size, it can brew five cup sizes , from espresso to carafe, and every cup comes topped with that signature Nespresso crema.
What makes the Pop special is Nespresso’s Centrifusion tech. It spins the pod at 7,000rpm and reads a barcode on each capsule to adjust everything: temperature, brew size, and timing. You get a perfect cup without lifting a finger. Just pop in a capsule, press the button, and the machine even disposes of the used pod for you.
The coffee is delicious for a pod machine, but a couple of things to note: it only works with Nespresso’s Vertuo pods (either sold through their site or on Amazon) which means signing up for a subscription or restocking online. And if you want milk drinks, you’ll need to buy Nespresso's Aeroccino milk frother (about £78 at Amazon separately. Still, for £99, it’s a steal.
Read more in my full Nespresso Vertuo Pop review.
Best filter coffee machine
Drip coffee might have a reputation for being more of an American thing, but I’ve noticed a real rise in these machines here in the UK and I totally get why. They’re quick, convenient, and perfect for brewing a big batch of light, drinkable coffee.
If you're tempted, the Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select is the one I’d recommend. Not only does it meet the Golden Cup Standard set by the Specialty Coffee Association (a big deal in coffee circles), but it’s also one of the most stylish machines I’ve ever tested. I actually got more compliments on it than on any of my vases or art.
The one pictured here is orange, but there are over 20 shades to choose from, from bright colours to sleek metallics, so it’ll suit pretty much any kitchen.
You can brew a half or full carafe at the touch of a button, and the hot plate will keep your coffee warm for an hour without ruining the flavour. It’s also built to last: handmade in the Netherlands with high-end materials like a copper heating element, and backed by a 5-year warranty. Best of all, i’s designed to be repaired, not replaced: proper coffee and proper sustainability.
Read more in my full Technivorm Moccamaster review.
Best luxury coffee machine
I never thought I’d use “good value” and “£750 coffee machine” in the same sentence, but here we are. The De’Longhi Rivelia is worth saving up your coffee beans for. It’s one of the smartest bean-to-cup machines I’ve tested, combining a sleek, minimalist design (in dreamy neutral shades) with seriously intuitive tech.
The 3.5-inch touchscreen is smooth, colourful, and easy to use. It can brew your coffee to the exact ml, temperature, and strength, whether you want a classic espresso or something a little more... specific (mine’s a decaf, 2/3 shot, iced cold brew with almond milk. I know, I know). It’ll even remember your preferences, create user profiles, and suggest drinks based on the time of day. I didn't realise how much I'd love that until I tried it.
You also get two 250g interchangeable hoppers, ideal if, like me, you switch between decaf and regular throughout the day. It’s genuinely hard to fault this machine. Yes, it’s an investment, and if you love the ritual of grinding and tamping, it may not be for you. But if you're after luxury, ease, and exceptional coffee on demand? This is the one.
Read more in my full De'Longhi Rivelia Coffee Machine review.
Best cafetiere
If you don't like flashing screens and whirring machines before you've had your morning cup of coffee, I can't recommend a cafetiere more. These range from £10 - 200 and my favourite is, as you've already guessed, the Bodum Chambord.
This classic glass carafe and stainless steel sleeve was first designed in the 1970s and the silhouette hasn't changed since. Why mess with a winning formula? With a single filter and simple pour and plunge mechanism, the Bodum Chambord will deliver classic rich, slightly acidic coffee in just ten minutes. You'll obviously need good beans and a decent grinder (or a good local where you can buy coarsely ground coffee), but aside from that, Bodum hands you the recipe for success.
There are better insulated models out there, which will keep your coffee warmer form longer (I wouldn't give the Bodum more than 20 minutes) as well as cafetieres which can double-filter your coffee, so that stray grounds don't sneak through, but these will often cost three of four times the price, which I don't think are worth the splurge.
If you want simple, good coffee, you can't go wrong with the Bodum. Just make sure you don't drop it.
Read more in my full Bodum Chambord review
Best portable coffee maker
The AeroPress slipped onto the scene as any start-up does, with a bang. It's designed to deliver all the delicious flavours that you get from all the best coffee machines on this list. However, instead of a pump and motor-generated pressure, this tube generates pressure through a vacuum. It makes no noise, doesn't need a plug, and is smaller than the average water bottle. It sounds close to magic and, in truth, the coffee the AeroPress makes is pretty unbelievable too.
If you've enjoyed French press or filter coffee, this is a blend between those two. Using a plunger and a filter (stainless steel or paper), you can brew a whole host of different coffees. Depending on the ratio, you can brew an intense shot of coffee, a classic black coffee, and, if you've got 18 hours, a cold brew concentrate.
Whilst you might like to stick with a more traditional machine, if you have a long commute and you need to save money, or you're going on holiday, I would put this on a list of essentials. This is compact and will deliver on reliably good results. For the price and size, this is easily the best coffee maker on the market.
Read more in my full AeroPress Clear Coffee Maker review.
How we tested the best coffee machines
We selected the following coffee machines in order to share products within a range of different prices, from budget to luxury options - and from well-known and more niche brands for a full representation of what's on the market.
To evaluate the best coffee machines we looked at:
- Price tag—and subsequent value-for-the-money.
- Ease of use—is brewing a cup intuitive or do you need to pour through the manual?
- Special functions—can you customize cup size? Adjust strength? Program?
- Design—coffee makers come in all shapes and sizes. Are you looking for something purely functional, or do you want something to match your personal interior taste?
Our Homes eCommerce Editor, Laura Honey is a former barista who has now tested over 150 of the best machines in the market. Every product in this guide has been tried and loved by her, and she's made an effort to ensure that these machines have been tested for longer than just a few weeks by sharing machines among friends and colleagues for prolonged testing. If something goes wrong, she hears about it. Laura has been on trips to coffee machine factories with the likes of De'Longhi, and been to coveted coffee launches alongside brands like Sage and Lavazza.
What makes a good coffee machine?
Finding the right coffee machine really depends on what you like to drink, how hands-on you want to be, and how much you’re willing to spend.
As Lizzy Blackwell, Barista Trainer at Cafédirect, explains: “Choosing the perfect coffee machine comes down to three key factors: the type of coffee you want to make, your skill level, and your budget.”
If espresso is your go-to, look for a machine that delivers at least 9 bars of pressure — that’s what you need for authentic espresso. For filter lovers, a drip machine that brews between 92–96°C is ideal. And if convenience is king, a capsule machine can be a quick, fuss-free fix (though it might limit your coffee choice).
Should I get a manual, semi-automatic, or automatic coffee machine?
It all depends on how involved you want to be in the brewing process.
“If you want maximum convenience, opt for a fully automatic machine,” says Lizzy. “They grind, tamp and brew the coffee, and even froth the milk.”
But if you want to hone your barista skills? “A semi-automatic is a great option as it offers more control. And for coffee enthusiasts, a manual machine gives you the full experience of espresso-making.”
If you love lattes and cappuccinos, don’t overlook the steam wand. Lizzy adds: “A machine with a proper steam wand will let you create silky microfoam for latte art – perfect for impressing guests!”
How much should I spend on a coffee machine?
There's a wide price range out there, and thankfully, decent machines exist at every level. Here's Lizzy’s breakdown:
Under £200: “Pod machines or basic espresso machines.”
£200–£700: “Good entry-level semi-automatic machines with better build quality.”
£1,000+: “Prosumer machines that offer café-quality coffee at home.”
The more you spend, the more control and durability you can expect, but it’s definitely possible to get great-tasting coffee without splashing out.
How do I find out what kind of coffee I actually like?
“A great way to discover what coffee you enjoy is to experiment,” says Lizzy. “Try different roast levels – light, medium or dark – and explore beans from various origins.”
She recommends checking the tasting notes on the packaging and trying a few to see what stands out. If you’re into sweet, smooth brews, she suggests Cafédirect’s Mayan Gold — a dark roast with caramel and honey notes. Prefer something richer and bolder? “If you have a taste for dark chocolate or prefer a medium-dark roast, try Cafédirect’s Machu Picchu,” she adds. It pairs beautifully with milk and has a full-bodied flavour with hints of hazelnut and citrus.
Oh, and don’t forget the strength number — it’s a rough guide to how intense the coffee will taste.
Are expensive coffee machines worth it?
We all hold a certain pride in our fancy coffee machines and trying out the latest coffee trends, but before you jump on the most luxurious machine, consider how often you'll use it, the features you plan to take advantage of, and if you're up for the maintenance that often comes with keeping these machines in shape.
And while it just so happens that some of our favorite coffee machines fall on the expensive side, we have come across brewers that we like for under £50. We seek out special functions like the ability to control brewing parameters, the overall brewing process, or the presence of water filters as to what makes a high-quality machine. More expensive machines typically use more expensive materials such as stainless steel shells, or in the case of the Moccamaster, a copper-heating element.
Sometimes a cheap coffee machine is a quick fix in a bind, but they usually struggle to get to the perfect temperature, or the heating element begins to burn out. If you're reaching for a cup of coffee every day at home, why not invest in something that brews superior coffee? We also place a lot of expectations on our expensive machines with the intention that they will serve us for years. Note, it's not just the coffee machine that affects your coffee, but the beans, their size, and freshness level that can make or break your beverage.
What type of coffee machine is best?
We've covered a wide amount of the types of coffee machines you can bring into your home. Now, we'll break down all of the different types of coffee machines and why one might be better for you than the other.
- Filter coffee machines—this makes your standard pot of hot coffee. Water is heated before being sprinkled over coffee grounds that then drips down into a carafe. A cup is usually identified as 150ml., so when you see a 12-cup coffee maker, it really makes 1.7 litres of coffee.
- Pod coffee machines—loved for their convenience to brew just one cup of coffee at a time. They feature pods, which tend to cost more per cup than using a drip coffee maker, but they require little measuring or skill.
- Espresso machines—encompass a wide variety of machines and brewing styles, but the most common is referred to as including semi-automatic, automatic or super-automatic. Semi-automatic requires places the responsibility of measuring grind, tamping, and timing the shot on you. Automatic machines automatically stop the water flow when at completion, but the grinding and tamping is still part of the art while super-automatic machines do everything for you at the touch of a button, from grinding to brewing to dispensing. Espresso is a finely ground coffee that's brewed under pressure.
