For coffee enthusiasts, finding the perfect coffee machine can transform your morning routine into a barista-level experience. From drip brewers to espresso machines, the market in 2025 offers a range of options tailored to different preferences, budgets, and skill levels. This guide compiles insights from expert reviews and rigorous testing to highlight the seven best coffee machines available, complete with their strengths, weaknesses, and a buying guide to help you choose.
1. Technivorm Moccamaster KBT
For people who want pour-over-quality coffee as well as the convenience of an automated machine, we recommend a good drip coffee maker. Of all the methods we’ve tested, a drip brewer offers the best ratio of flavor to effort. The Technivorm Moccamaster KBT extends that first-sip feeling to the last drop of each cup it brews. “Every sip I take of this coffee is a spiritual experience,” noted taste tester Rachael Lamore. It’s an exceptionally high-quality, handmade drip coffee maker. Our entire taste panel was blown away by the rich, complex, balanced flavor and luscious weight and texture of the coffee made by the Moccamaster. Lead tester Lesley Robinson said, “I loved the coffee made by this machine. It was an eye-opening experience to see how amazing home-brewed coffee can be.” Plus, the filter basket has a drip stop switch that can be used to manually add pre-infusion or extend the brew time to your liking — a much-appreciated feature for those who like to tinker with their coffee.
Pros:
- Produces rich, complex, and balanced coffee with excellent texture.
- Handmade with high-quality materials for durability.
- Drip stop switch allows customization of brew time and pre-infusion.
- Thermal carafe keeps coffee warm for hours without compromising flavor.
Cons:
- High price point compared to other drip coffee makers.
- Lacks advanced programmability or smart features.
- Carafe can dribble when pouring, requiring careful handling.
2. OXO Brew 9 Cup Coffee Maker
We think the easiest way to make good coffee is with the OXO Brew 9 Cup Coffee Maker. This stylish brewer makes consistently good coffee and has an effective thermal carafe. It fully saturates the grounds with water at the right temperature and allows them to bloom at the beginning of the brewing process. Choosing the ratio also means there’s no need for an insulated travel mug. It comes with a thermal carafe that we found kept coffee warm for hours and didn’t spill a drop during a car ride to the park. Size: 13.5″ x 6.5″ x 14.25″. Capacity: 8 cups. Carafe style: Thermal. Features: Blooms coffee, SCA Golden Cup capabilities. Warranty: 5 years.
Pros:
- Consistently brews well-balanced coffee with proper bloom.
- Thermal carafe maintains coffee temperature for hours without spilling.
- SCA Golden Cup certification ensures high brewing standards.
- Compact design fits well in most kitchens.
Cons:
- Limited customization options compared to premium models.
- No programmable settings for automated brewing.
- Slightly slower brew time than some competitors.
3. Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker CE251
Among the budget drip models we tested, the Ninja 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker CE251 made the most balanced and the hottest cup of coffee. It has convenient, simple-to-use features, like different settings for a classic or richer taste, and its removable water tank is easy to read and fill. This model was also intuitive enough to program, so it’s suitable for shared kitchens. The Ninja has easy-to-read buttons for customizing and preprogramming a pot of coffee, but remember to select the features you want before pressing the brew button. The removable water reservoir is easy to both fill and clean.
Pros:
- Affordable price for reliable performance.
- Produces hot, balanced coffee with customizable strength settings.
- Removable water tank simplifies filling and cleaning.
- Intuitive programming ideal for households with multiple users.
Cons:
- Plastic construction feels less premium.
- Carafe doesn’t keep coffee warm as long as thermal options.
- Requires manual selection of settings before each brew.
4. Breville Barista Express Impress
This outstanding bean-to-cup machine delivers excellent coffee every time. We appreciated the ability to choose between automatic and manual modes, so you can have the machine handle the technical work, or hone your own barista skills. Our reviewer found it easy to master, with consistently good results. The integrated grinder is another big selling point in our tests. Instead of purchasing a $200 coffee grinder, you can rely on the 25 settings inside the Breville to grind even the stalest beans. Considering all the work that the machine does for you, we were able to pull shots in less than a minute. The milk frothing is automatic too: Just fill the pitcher to one of the etched-on lines, place it on the machine with the steam wand in it, and press the frothing icon. You can customize the milk type, temperature, and foam. In our tests, the microfoam was smooth enough for latte art.
Pros:
- Built-in grinder with 25 settings for fresh, precise grinds.
- Automatic and manual modes cater to beginners and experts.
- Fast shot pulling and customizable milk frothing.
- Produces smooth microfoam suitable for latte art.
Cons:
- Expensive compared to standalone espresso machines.
- Takes up significant counter space.
- Automatic frothing may not satisfy users wanting manual control.
5. Profitec Go
After making (and tasting) dozens of espressos and lattes, we think the Profitec Go is the best machine for both new and skilled espresso enthusiasts. It’s powerful and easy to use, and it’s capable of yielding consistent, rich shots with robust flavor profiles. This affordable machine can yield surprisingly complex shots, though you’ll need to buy a separate tamper to get there. Frothing milk can be a bit tricky, but microfoam is manageable. A small screen on the front of the machine displays the brewing temperature, and switches to a timer when you pull your shot. The controls are straightforward. With just an on/off button, a button for espresso, and a button for steaming, the Profitec is easy to understand. It’s ready to brew quickly. After turning the Profitec on, it takes only about a minute before it’s ready to pull a shot.
Pros:
- Yields complex, full-bodied espresso shots with minimal effort.
- Simple controls and fast heat-up time enhance usability.
- Compact design fits smaller kitchens.
- Adjustable steam wand for customized frothing.
Cons:
- Requires a separate tamper for optimal extraction.
- Steam wand is less powerful than higher-end models.
- No built-in grinder, adding to overall cost.
6. Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima
For people who prefer espresso-based drinks, I have two top recommendations. If you’re looking for a single-serve, I’d suggest the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima, which is versatile and easy to use. In our tests, every cup of espresso and coffee came out hot and well-rounded with a luxurious crema. Plus, the position of the water tank can be moved to fit your counter space. Another noteworthy perk is that Nespresso recycles used pods if you send them back to the company, and the brand’s newest Vertuo machine is made with 54% recycled plastic. Finally, you can’t beat the price, and it requires barely any cleanup. Type: Automatic. Dimensions: 14.9″ x 9.75″ x 16.5″. Pressure: 15-BARs. Water capacity: 47.3 ounces.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use pod system with minimal cleanup.
- Produces hot coffee and espresso with rich crema.
- Adjustable water tank fits various counter configurations.
- Eco-friendly with recyclable pods and partially recycled materials.
Cons:
- Limited customization compared to manual machines.
- Ongoing pod costs can add up over time.
- Not ideal for users seeking hands-on brewing control.
7. De’Longhi La Specialista Touch
If you have a compact kitchen, De’Longhi’s La Specialista Touch is a great choice. It’s particularly good for coffee fans looking for their first espresso machine, with a smart tamping system that makes dosing and creating the perfect puck a piece of cake. Its steam wand is great as well, and I appreciated its choice of manual and auto modes during testing. This newest bean-to-cup model from De’Longhi strikes the perfect balance between convenience and customisation, without compromising on the quality of the coffee. There are eight drink options to choose from, plus options to tweak the froth level and type of milk you’re using, be it dairy, almond, soy or oat. The machine is also built with assisted tamping, and auto-corrects each dose for the next time you use it. We liked the step-by-step guidance on screen, which advised on grind size and whether extraction was too fast or slow.
Pros:
- Smart tamping system simplifies espresso preparation for beginners.
- Offers manual and auto modes with eight drink options.
- Supports multiple milk types with customizable froth levels.
- On-screen guidance enhances user experience.
Cons:
- Dialing in grind settings can be time-consuming.
- Build quality feels slightly less premium in some areas.
- Louder pump compared to competitors.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Coffee Machine
Types of Coffee Machines
- Drip Coffee Makers: Ideal for those who enjoy simple, light, and delicate flavors. They’re easy to use and perfect for brewing multiple cups at once. Best for households with multiple coffee drinkers or those who prefer black coffee.
- Espresso Machines: Suited for lovers of espresso-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. They require more skill and maintenance but offer greater control over flavor. Choose semi-automatic or manual models for hands-on brewing, or fully automatic for convenience.
- Bean-to-Cup Machines: These grind beans, brew coffee, and often froth milk automatically. They’re great for those who want fresh coffee with minimal effort but are willing to invest in a higher price point.
- Pod Machines: The most convenient option, ideal for quick brewing with minimal cleanup. They’re compact and user-friendly but offer less customization and can be costly over time due to pod expenses.
Key Considerations
- Budget: You can find reliable drip coffee makers under $100, while espresso and bean-to-cup machines often start at $200 and can exceed $1,000 for premium models. Factor in long-term costs like pods or high-quality beans.
- Space: Measure your counter space, considering the machine’s height, width, and depth. Compact pod machines or smaller espresso models are better for tight kitchens.
- Coffee Preferences: If you drink black coffee, drip or pour-over methods excel. For milk-based drinks, prioritize machines with steam wands or built-in frothers. Single-serve machines suit occasional drinkers, while larger models are better for frequent use.
- Ease of Use: Beginners may prefer pod or fully automatic machines, while coffee enthusiasts might enjoy the control of manual espresso or bean-to-cup models.
- Maintenance: Look for machines with removable water tanks, drip trays, and easy-to-clean parts. Pod machines require the least upkeep, while espresso machines need regular descaling and backflushing.
Additional Tips
- Grind Matters: For espresso or bean-to-cup machines, a quality grinder is essential. Built-in grinders save space but may lack the precision of standalone models.
- Water Quality: Use filtered water to prevent scale buildup and improve coffee taste, especially in hard-water areas.
- Sustainability: Pod machines are convenient but less eco-friendly unless you use recyclable or compostable pods. Nespresso and L’OR offer recycling programs.
- Longevity: Check warranty periods (typically 1-5 years) and brand reliability. Higher-end models often use durable materials, extending lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best coffee machine for a beginner?
For beginners, pod machines like the Nespresso Vertuo Lattissima or semi-automatic espresso machines like the De’Longhi La Specialista Touch are excellent. They simplify brewing with automated features while still delivering quality coffee, requiring minimal skill or setup.
How often should I clean my coffee machine?
Cleaning frequency depends on the machine type. Drip coffee makers need a monthly descaling with vinegar or a descaling solution. Espresso machines require weekly cleaning of the portafilter and group head, plus monthly descaling. Pod machines need occasional rinsing of the water tank and drip tray. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
Are pod machines worth it if I drink coffee daily?
Pod machines are convenient but can be expensive long-term due to pod costs. Based on drinking two espressos a day over five years, pod machines cost around $1,153, compared to $773 for a traditional espresso machine. If you prioritize ease and speed, they’re worth it, but consider recycling programs to offset environmental impact.
Can I use plant-based milk in coffee machines with frothers?
Yes, many modern machines, like the Breville Barista Express Impress and De’Longhi La Specialista Touch, have settings for plant-based milks like almond, soy, or oat. However, dairy milk often produces silkier microfoam, so you may need to experiment to achieve the desired texture.
How do I know if a coffee machine is energy-efficient?
Check for energy-saving features like auto-off functions or low-wattage operation. Some brands, like Miele, offer smart machines with long-term software support, which can include energy monitoring. Energy efficiency is harder to gauge without specific data, so prioritize models with these features if it’s a concern.