The best espresso coffee makers, comparison, review of characteristics

Using a coffee maker, you can prepare a strong cappuccino or Americano, delighting true connoisseurs with an excellent drink, the taste and aroma of which is no different from high-quality coffee brewed in a Turk. Would you like a kitchen helper like this? Then all that’s left is to choose the appropriate option.

Choosing the best coffee maker depends on many criteria. Here you need to take into account the volume of drink consumed, its types, how often this household appliance will be used at work and whether, among the list of functions, there is a need to have a built-in filter for foam and a cappuccino maker.

The article presents the 10 best options, using the example of which you can easily understand the features of this type of equipment, finally deciding on the desired model.

Delonghi EC 680 M

The first in the rating of coffee makers for the home is the modern and ultra-thin DELONGHI EC 680 M. Its width is only 15 cm, which means the equipment will fit even in a compact kitchen. The shiny body of the equipment and chrome-plated parts complement the pleasant impression.

The coffee maker has a power of 1450 W and prepares drinks under pressure of 15 bar. The water container is located on the back of the coffee maker, making it easy to access. The volume of liquid it holds is enough for 2-3 cups of invigorating coffee.

The main advantage of this model is the “Cappuccino” function. With its help, you can whip up a dense foam with just one turn of the nozzle. The action takes a couple of seconds - and the aromatic latte is ready.

The list of features of the coffee maker:

3 filters. They will “help” brew coffee for one, two servings or a drink using tableted powder (pods).
Control. For ease of use, the buttons on the panel are illuminated. In addition, the equipment is equipped with a shutdown timer, which can be set from 9 minutes to 3 hours.
Menu. You can independently regulate the volume, temperature of the drink and its strength. Programs are installed using special keys.

Manufacturers have not forgotten about the dish heating system. You just need to put the cup on a special tray.

A small disadvantage is the lack of a display on the case. With such functionality, the equipment would look more modern.

Asko SM 8456 C

This is an automatic coffee maker, which is equipped with an ergonomic design and a large number of settings. The device has a compact size and beautiful style, thanks to which it can fit into any kitchen.

The touch panel is quite convenient; it is located on the front of the panel. Using it, you can select a specific mode, the required setting or other parameters. The sensor responds well to touch; even eating your fingers will be wet.

You only need one touch to select a specific function. Using the display, you can control the process of preparing your favorite, invigorating drink.

On the display you can see the following information:

official message;
program indication;
preparation time of the selected drink;
message indicating that a malfunction has occurred.

The built-in coffee maker was made from a metal seam. The volume of the container for water is 1.8 liters, for ground grains – 200 grams. There are models that have separate containers for adding milk, a couple of heating elements and a pressure of 15 bar.

Also, there are additional functions that make it much easier to use: pre-cooking, pre-flooring. Agree, this is very convenient.

Saeco Poemia HD8425/21

The Saeco Poemia HD8425/21 coffee maker will help you prepare strong espresso. Its spacious panel can easily accommodate two cups, each up to 7 cm high. The transparent 1 liter water bottle makes it easy to monitor the water level and is very easy to remove for filling and cleaning.

The color of the equipment is black with a spectacular copper trim on the ends. This original decor will go well with a dark Gorenje MMO 20 MBII microwave oven or a Gorenje BM1200BK bread maker.

Saeco Poemia Focus 8323/39

Saeco Poemia Focus 8323/39 is in the TOP coffee makers for its convenient built-in valve in the holder. It compacts the coffee tablet on its own, so you don’t have to bother with the tamper every time.

The 1 liter water tank has the ability to install a cleaning filter. The machine works with ground beans; you can also use pods. The spacious tray area holds 2 cups for simultaneous coffee preparation.

Advantages of the model:

manual cappuccino maker for preparing stable milk foam;
built-in Crema filter, which performs the same function, but with a coffee drink;
compact dimensions, which are 20x26.5x29.7 cm.

The list of features of the coffee maker includes a built-in hot water supply system, which can be used for brewing tea or other needs. This saves time and energy that goes into operating the electric kettle.

The main disadvantage of the coffee maker is the stand for cups without heating. There is also no automatic shutdown, which means you will have to monitor energy savings yourself.

Features of the coffee machine

Varieties

A coffee machine is equipment for brewing coffee that requires almost no human intervention. There are automatic and semi-automatic models. They differ from each other in the set of independently performed functions.

The main actions that the machine performs:

grain grinding with adjustable degree;
water dosage;
frothing milk;
warming cups.

The principle of the device may differ depending on the specific model. We wrote more about this in the article “Design and principle of operation of coffee machines.”

In addition to dividing them into automatic and semi-automatic, they are divided according to the cooking principle:

carob;
capsule;
portioned or pod;
espresso processor.

There are hybrids with features of other options.

Rozhkova

Its peculiarity is its ease of use and relatively low cost. Purpose – brewing espresso. Models differ in size and water compartment volume. Average size – 300x200x250 mm. Machine weight – 3-5 kg. The average cost is 5-6 thousand rubles.

Some models are equipped with a cappuccino maker - a device for frothing milk. This allows you to prepare cappuccino and latte. But you will have to control the frothing of the milk and mix the espresso with the required amount of milk foam yourself.

The only drawback, which is significant for many people, is that the machine holder needs to be constantly cleaned.

Coffee is brewed by a hot stream of air and water that passes through the ground beans in the cone. The more they are pressed, the stronger the coffee will be, and vice versa.

Capsule

A capsule coffee machine operates exclusively on capsules, which are equipped with two filters. During cooking, the capsule is pierced in several places. The air flow mixes the mixture in the capsule. The water is then pressurized through the first filter, and the espresso is poured through the second. To determine which machine is best for you, read the article “Capsule or grain: which is better? We choose a coffee machine."

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You will not be able to regulate the taste and strength. It all depends on the filling of the capsule. This is a distinctive feature of a capsule device.

The power of such a machine is lower than that of a carob machine. And it also takes up less space. The price is 2-4 thousand rubles. But capsules are more expensive than plain grains.

Chaldovaya

The differences between a carob and a pod machine are not always visible at first glance. Some carob models have an adapter for brewing from pods. A pod is coffee ground and pressed into a tablet. Each has the same weight. The disadvantage of this type of machine is the inability to regulate the degree of grinding and strength. The advantage is the taste, which will not be different every time.

The appearance and size are almost the same as those of the horn models. Power – not less than 1500 W. And the average cost is 10-12 thousand rubles, which is much higher than carob.

Espresso combine

The structure and operating principle of a combine is similar to a carob coffee machine. It features a built-in coffee grinder, which others don’t always have. This allows you to use not only ground coffee, but also bean coffee. For this purpose, the combine has a special compartment into which grains are poured for grinding.

The size, on average, is 1.5-2 times larger than carob. The power is at least 1500 W. Price – 15-18 thousand rubles.

Delonghi EC 156.B

The small, ergonomic Delonghi EC 156.B coffee maker is an excellent choice for lovers of rich espresso with delicate Crema foam. The equipment body is made of durable heat-resistant plastic with metal inserts. The set includes 2 filters: for one and two servings of drink.

You can brew coffee using ground beans or tablet powder. A stable airy foam, which is an excellent decoration for a macchiato or latte, is made by a manual cappuccino maker.

The coffee maker is controlled by one switch located on the front panel. A special indicator signals the readiness mode.

The “advantages” of the model are:

Easy to care for. The holder, tray and water tank are easily removed and can be easily cleaned under running water. And the body can be easily wiped with a damp cloth for office equipment.
Steam supply regulator. This lever is installed on top of the body and is responsible for high-quality whipping of foam. The feed intensity is set independently.

The coffee maker is equipped with a self-shut-off function 30 minutes after use.

It is not possible to program the coffee temperature and volume on this equipment. The technology does not have such capabilities.

Electrolux EKF7800

The first drip model in the list of the best coffee makers is called Electrolux EKF7800. This budget option will be a good alternative to more expensive espresso coffee makers.

The 1.6 liter capacity tank holds up to 15 cups of finished coffee. Only ground grains can be used for cooking.

The coffee maker is controlled through a small panel, where all operating stages are shown on the touch screen. The coffee strength can be adjusted. For this purpose, the equipment is equipped with a special AromaStrength program.

The main advantages of this specimen include:

delayed start, the time of which can be programmed 24 hours in advance;
convenient control over coffee preparation using the display;
auto-heating of the flask keeps the drink warm;
the ability to prepare a large amount of coffee at one time;
Anti-drip mode, which retains residual liquid in the spout.

What is the difference between a coffee maker and a coffee machine?

The difference between a coffee maker and a coffee machine is not always obvious, and it is difficult for an inexperienced buyer to decide. The main distinguishing features between these types of devices are:

size;
power;
pressure;
management principle;
cooking speed;
possibility of preparing different coffee drinks;
price;
taste.

Coffee machines are bigger than coffee makers. If these are professional options, their size is 3-5 times larger. A distinctive feature of the two types of devices is power. A carob-type machine has approximately 1.1-1.7 kW, and a small household drip machine has 0.6-0.8 kW. But a low score is not always bad, as it seems at first glance. The drink prepares more slowly, but this does not mean that it will be worse.

The pressure of each device also varies. This figure varies depending on the purpose of the device. In a coffee maker it is lower, but it is enough to make espresso. You need 8-9 bar. If the pressure is lower or higher, the drink will not work.

Some car models have automatic control. The rest are manual or semi-automatic.

The main difference between a coffee maker and a coffee machine is the speed of preparation. You can get aromatic coffee using the machine in 30 seconds.

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Most coffee makers are designed to make espresso. They usually do not know how to make cappuccino, lattes and other popular drinks (but here it is important to look at the characteristics of the model). If you prefer cappuccino, take a look at a coffee machine. The main thing is that it has a built-in cappuccino maker.

The cars are more expensive because they are mostly automatic. You press the drink button and you get it out the door.

The rich taste is obtained in the carob machine. The pod type can boast the same taste. Quality is affected by power and pressure.

Sencor SCE2001WH

Sencor SCE2001WH is a small and inexpensive coffee maker that is no larger than a toaster. Such equipment operates with a power of 350 W, and a small water tank holds 300 ml of liquid.

Despite its compact size, the appliance can hold 2 cups on the stand at the same time. Only ground grains can be used for work. The stand can comfortably accommodate dishes up to 75 mm high. A nice bonus is the inclusion of two white porcelain cups and a coffee measuring cup included.

This “baby” has a lot of features:

supply of hot water for brewing tea or cooking;
reusable filter;
power indicator on the switch;
automatic stop of work when the liquid tank is empty;
anti-drip system, which prevents coffee residues from the spouts from falling onto the stand.

The characteristics are complemented by a rubberized non-slip stand and a wide palette of body colors (green, red, white, black). This coffee maker can be used while traveling or on business trips.

Features of the coffee maker

Varieties

Like coffee machines, coffee makers differ in the principle of preparation and the taste of the finished drink.

The coffee is brewed in these machines, so the process requires control. But this also depends on the type of device. A primitive and old coffee maker is a French press. It was replaced by others, more convenient and faster.

To reduce cooking time, devices for brewing espresso were invented. Common ones include:

geyser coffee maker;
carob coffee maker;
drip coffee maker.

Geysernaya

The principle of operation of the geyser device is the passage of steam from hot water through ground grains, which are located in the upper compartment. This is where the drink accumulates. Geyser models are electric or heated on a stove. It is believed that when brewed in such a device, coffee is stronger than from other coffee makers.

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They are large in size, but their height does not exceed 30 cm. They look like a small vessel, so they take up little space. Price – from 300 rubles, depending on the shape and manufacturer.

Rozhkova

The operating principle of a carob coffee maker is similar to a coffee machine of the same name. Their main difference is not in price and size, but in the fact that you cannot put beans into the coffee maker. This requires ground coffee. To brew a cup of espresso, you need to compress it into a cone. When you put the horn in place, hot steam and water pass through it and the finished coffee is poured into a special container.

The cost of this device starts from 2000 rubles. Power from 800 W.

Drip

Drip coffee makers are simple in design. They are best used to make Americano. The cooking principle is similar to the previous ones, where hot steam passes through the ground grains. The steam condenses, flows through the filter and drips into the container drop by drop. Hence the name.

The power of the device is low, on average 650 W. The size is small and takes up little space in the kitchen. The average cost is 2 thousand rubles.

It is important to remember that the lower the power of the coffee maker, the stronger the coffee will be, but the preparation time will increase.

Delonghi ECP35.31

The Delonghi ECP35.31 model belongs to the category of professional equipment, as evidenced by its size and price. The black glossy body with metal inserts is designed in the “Modern” style and will suit any kitchen interior.

The carob coffee maker is equipped with 3 nozzles: for one, two cups of drink or coffee using a pod. The spacious stand can accommodate two cups at once. You can use large dishes up to 13 cm high.

The volume of water in a serving and the strength of each cup of coffee can be adjusted independently. There are separate buttons on the control panel for this purpose.

This model will delight customers with 5 features:

Dish heating function.
Power off after 30 minutes in automatic mode.
The ability to regulate steam output at two levels.
“Cappuccino” technology for making fluffy foam.
The original Extra DripTray cup stand.

This equipment does not provide for the installation of a filter to adjust water hardness. True, the plaque that appears can always be removed with any descaling agent.

Kenwood ES020 kMix

The next level of the rating is occupied by a model from an English manufacturer - Kenwood ES020 kMix. The equipment is equipped with a removable 1-liter water bowl and a compartment for convenient storage of filters. There are two of them in the set: for quickly preparing one or two servings of a hot drink. A holder with a reliable lock holds the filters firmly, which completely prevents them from falling out during cleaning.

The coffee maker is controlled using indicator buttons, which indicate in yellow that it is ready for use. The removable drip tray makes it easy to keep your equipment clean. The filter for cream foam is also collapsible.

Among the advantages of this technique for coffee lovers:

professional milk frother;
special section for storing dishes;
Built-in filter that cleans the water efficiently.

The equipment lacks automatic shutdown. Plus, purchasing this equipment may be useless for those who prefer coffee from pods - this model only works with pre-ground beans.

We have already written: How to choose a coffee grinder in 3 steps: a guide for coffee lovers

Philips HD 7459/20

Another drip technique is Philips HD 7459/20. Its transparent reservoir holds 1.2 liters of liquid, and its comfortable handle makes it easy to hold even a full bowl. The equipment works without pressure and only with pre-ground coffee.

The model is equipped with technology to turn off the power two hours after finishing work. A small display at the bottom of the stand will help you control the process and readiness of the drink. In addition, the equipment has a water level indicator that regulates the amount of water for each serving of coffee.

All parts of the coffee maker are removable, including the filter holder. They can be washed under running water or in the dishwasher. Reassembling the equipment after cleaning for further work is also not difficult.

The main qualities of this model are:

small sizes make it easier to store equipment;
a coffee pot made of tempered glass is many times more environmentally friendly than plastic;
drop retention technology after pouring coffee will prevent excessive contamination of the tray;
It is possible to prepare 10-15 cups of drink in one click.

Of course, there can be no talk of any foam for cappuccino with such a coffee maker, as well as, in principle, of this type of coffee. This model, like previous drip models, prepares only a regular black drink.

Pros and cons of an espresso coffee maker compared to competitors

An espresso coffee maker has many advantages, but, of course, it also has disadvantages. The main advantages of this type of coffee maker:

There are no coffee grounds when brewing coffee. A cup that is filled with coffee does not have unpleasant sediments that settle at the bottom.
The real taste of rich and concentrated coffee remains. Ground coffee has flavor qualities that complement the drink.
Coffee is prepared very quickly, which is a significant advantage. Steam passes through the crushed grains, and subsequent condensations do not take much time.
The pump uses pressure to direct steam to the grains, thereby extracting beneficial properties and rich taste.
The carob coffee maker creates incredible foam.

Considering the advantages written above, it becomes clear why this type of coffee maker is in great demand. They are perfect for office and home use.

Of course, the device also has disadvantages. For example, there are no additional modes in models that are intended for the middle class. That is, such devices do not have the ability to brew cappuccino or other types of coffee drinks. And also, they do not have a coffee grinder.

More expensive models are equipped with a built-in cappuccino maker and additional modes.

Delonghi ECOV311BG

The TOP of coffee makers for home is completed by the original model Delonghi ECOV311BG. The equipment body is made in a pleasant soft beige color, the control is push-button.

The functionality of the equipment includes everything you need: cup warming, a manual light cappuccino maker, an anti-drip system. Two separate thermostats are responsible for regulating steam and water temperature. The completely transparent flask holds 1.4 liters of liquid. This is the maximum figure in the line of carob coffee makers.

This model prepares an invigorating drink only from ground grains. The use of pods is not provided here.

Advantages of technology:

Automatic shutdown. The function allows you to independently program the equipment to turn off after 9, 30 minutes or 3 hours.
Reliable design. A durable stainless steel boiler and other metal parts guarantee a long service life of the coffee maker.

The stand simultaneously holds two cups in which you can make coffee and tea. For the last drink, the appliance will simply supply hot water.

The equipment lacks a filter to purify the water and a system that regulates the strength of the coffee. Perhaps these are its most significant shortcomings.

Conclusion

The best espresso coffee makers listed are an excellent choice for those who truly love an invigorating drink. With its help, you can prepare an aromatic coffee drink without any effort, and in a minimum amount of time.

If you want to be able to quickly prepare delicious coffee, but you don’t have a budget for purchasing equipment, you can rent a coffee machine for a long time.