Built-in coffee machines bring café-quality espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos to your kitchen without sacrificing counter space. These appliances blend seamlessly into cabinetry, offering convenience, customization, and durability for coffee enthusiasts. In 2025, the market offers a range of models, from fully automatic to smart-enabled systems, catering to various budgets and preferences. Below, we review the eight best built-in coffee machines, highlighting their features, pros, cons, and why they stand out, followed by a buying guide and FAQs to help you choose the perfect model.
1. Miele VitroLine ArtLine Series (Best Overall, Plumbed)
The Miele VitrolLine ArtLine Series is a solid, feature-packed option, and our favorite if you are looking for a plumbed machine. We like that it allows for a truly customizable cup of coffee, as you can save settings related to your favorite type of bean, amount of ground coffee, water temperature, and amount of milk or foam to a user profile. You can create up to 10 user profiles for households with multiple members, giving them a personalized drink every time. The machine is also outfitted with a conical grinder that grinds fresh beans for each cup of coffee, preserving their intensity and aroma. We like that there are three containers to place different types of beans in—which you can select manually or permanently assign to your beverage of choice. Certain features of the machine can also be programmed, like a timer and energy-saving function which automatically turns on and off the machine at different times (for example, on for breakfast and off by sundown). There are descaling and self-cleaning functions which can be timed, as well. This Miele pick can make up to two cups at once, or a whole pot for eight people.
Pros:
- Highly customizable with 10 user profiles.
- Three bean containers for variety.
- Plumbed installation eliminates water tank refills.
- Self-cleaning and descaling functions simplify maintenance.
Cons:
- High price point (~$4,000).
- Plumbed setup requires professional installation.
- Large footprint (17.9 x 23.4 x 19.6 inches).
Why It Stands Out: Its customization, multiple bean options, and plumbed convenience make it ideal for households with diverse coffee preferences.
2. Bosch 800 Series Built-In Coffee Machine (Best Overall, Non-Plumbed)
The Bosch 800 Series Built-in Coffee Machine is a solid, reliable option when it comes to non-plumbed built-in machines. We also like the smart features, allowing you to start brewing coffee before you get out of bed or as you’re hosting a party, using the remote app. The touch screen feature is easy to navigate and choose your beverage of choice. Of course, features like the milk frother and multilevel grind settings are helpful as well. The machine can brew up to two cups at once. Like the Miele VitrolLine ArtLine Series, our best overall, you can store preset coffee drinks—though it’s through the app rather than the machine itself.
Pros:
- Smart app integration for remote brewing.
- Non-plumbed for easier installation.
- Compact design (17.9 x 23.4 x 14.9 inches).
- Reliable milk frother for creamy lattes.
Cons:
- Preset storage limited to app.
- Fewer bean container options than Miele.
- Pricey for non-plumbed (~$3,290).
Why It Stands Out: Its smart features and non-plumbed design offer flexibility for tech-savvy users seeking premium coffee without complex installation.
3. Fisher & Paykel Series 9 30 Inch Built-In Coffee Maker (Best Value)
The Fisher Paykel 30″ Series 9 Professional Built-in Coffee Maker is outfitted with all the features you’d want from a luxury coffee machine, but without as steep of a price tag. We love that its capabilities are similar to the Miele VitrolLine ArtLine Series (our overall best plumbed pick), with self-cleaning, coffee temperature, and timer functions. It’s a non-plumbed model, making it easier to install in kitchens without dedicated water lines.
Pros:
- Affordable for a luxury model (~$2,999).
- Non-plumbed for simpler setup.
- Self-cleaning and timer functions.
- Sleek, professional design.
Cons:
- Fewer customization options than Miele.
- No smart app integration.
- Single bean container limits variety.
Why It Stands Out: It balances high-end features with a lower price, perfect for those wanting quality without breaking the bank.
4. JennAir Rise Built-In Coffee System (Best for Hard Water)
The JennAir Rise Built-In Coffee System is specifically designed to handle hard water, making it a great choice for areas with mineral-heavy water. It features a built-in water filtration system to reduce scale buildup, extending the machine’s lifespan. The machine offers a variety of drink options, from espresso to cappuccino, with adjustable grind settings and milk frothing capabilities.
Pros:
- Water filtration system for hard water.
- Wide range of drink options.
- Adjustable grind settings for precision.
- Sleek stainless steel design.
Cons:
- Expensive (~$3,899).
- Plumbed installation required.
- No smart features.
Why It Stands Out: Its hard water compatibility ensures longevity in challenging water conditions, ideal for specific regions.
5. Fulgor Milano Built-In Coffee Machine (Best with Milk Frother)
The Fulgor Milano Built-In Coffee Machine stands out for its exceptional milk frother, producing silky microfoam perfect for latte art. It’s a fully automatic machine with a built-in conical grinder and multiple drink presets. The intuitive touchscreen makes it easy to select and customize drinks.
Pros:
- Superior milk frother for professional-quality foam.
- Intuitive touchscreen interface.
- Compact dimensions (17.9 x 23.4 x 14.9 inches).
- Fully automatic for ease of use.
Cons:
- High cost (~$3,399).
- No smart connectivity.
- Single bean container.
Why It Stands Out: Its milk frother excels for milk-based drinks, appealing to latte and cappuccino lovers.
6. Thermador Built-In Coffee Machine (Best for Large Households)
The Thermador Built-In Coffee Machine is designed for high-volume use, capable of brewing up to 12 cups at once or serving individual drinks. It features a dual boiler system, allowing simultaneous espresso and milk frothing, which speeds up preparation for multiple users. The machine includes smart connectivity and a customizable interface.
Pros:
- High capacity for large households.
- Dual boiler for faster preparation.
- Smart app for remote control.
- Customizable drink profiles.
Cons:
- Very expensive (~$4,500).
- Large footprint (18 x 24 x 20 inches).
- Complex maintenance.
Why It Stands Out: Its high capacity and dual boiler make it perfect for entertaining or big families.
7. Gaggenau 400 Series Built-In Coffee Machine (Best for Design)
The Gaggenau 400 Series is a premium choice for those prioritizing aesthetics. Its minimalist design, with flush installation and stainless steel finish, complements high-end kitchens. The machine offers precise grind settings, a powerful steam wand, and smart controls via a companion app.
Pros:
- Stunning, minimalist design.
- Precise grind and brewing controls.
- Smart app integration.
- Powerful steam wand.
Cons:
- Premium price (~$4,800).
- Plumbed installation required.
- Limited drink variety compared to competitors.
Why It Stands Out: Its sleek design elevates kitchen aesthetics while delivering excellent coffee.
8. Viking Built-In Coffee Maker (Best for Durability)
The Viking Built-In Coffee Maker is built to last, with heavy-duty components and a robust stainless steel exterior. It offers a range of drink options, a built-in grinder, and a reliable milk frother. The machine includes self-cleaning functions and a timer for convenience.
Pros:
- Durable, high-quality construction.
- Self-cleaning for low maintenance.
- Reliable milk frother.
- Timer for scheduled brewing.
Cons:
- Expensive (~$4,200).
- No smart features.
- Larger footprint (18 x 24 x 18 inches).
Why It Stands Out: Its durability ensures long-term performance, ideal for frequent use.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Built-In Coffee Machine
When selecting a built-in coffee machine, consider the following factors to ensure it meets your needs:
- Installation Type: Plumbed machines connect to your water line, eliminating the need to refill tanks but requiring professional installation. Non-plumbed models are easier to install but need manual refilling.
- Customization: Look for machines with adjustable grind settings, temperature controls, and user profiles for personalized drinks.
- Capacity: Choose a model that matches your household size. Some machines brew single cups, while others can handle pots for multiple people.
- Smart Features: App connectivity allows remote brewing and preset storage, ideal for tech-savvy users.
- Maintenance: Self-cleaning and descaling functions reduce upkeep. Check warranty periods, typically 2-3 years, though some brands like Moccamaster offer up to 5 years.
- Milk Frother: Essential for lattes and cappuccinos, a quality frother produces silky microfoam. Automatic frothers are easier for beginners.
- Dimensions: Ensure the machine fits your cabinetry. Most models are around 18 x 24 x 15-20 inches.
- Budget: Prices range from $2,999 to $4,800. Balance features with affordability, as higher-priced models often include smart features or dual boilers.
For more insights, check out The Spruce’s guide to built-in coffee machines or Consumer Reports’ coffee maker buying guide.
FAQs
Q: What’s the difference between plumbed and non-plumbed built-in coffee machines?
A: Plumbed machines connect directly to your home’s water line, providing a constant water supply but requiring professional installation. Non-plumbed machines have a water tank you refill manually, making them easier to install but less convenient for heavy use.
Q: How often should I clean a built-in coffee machine?
A: Daily cleaning of milk frothers and drip trays is recommended to prevent buildup. Most machines have self-cleaning or descaling cycles that should be run every 1-3 months, depending on usage and water hardness.
Q: Can built-in coffee machines make drinks other than espresso?
A: Yes, most models offer a variety of drinks, including cappuccinos, lattes, Americanos, and even hot water for tea. Some also support cold brew or hot chocolate options.
Q: Are built-in coffee machines worth the investment?
A: For frequent coffee drinkers, they can save money compared to daily café visits, which can cost $7,000+ over five years. They also save counter space and add a luxurious touch to your kitchen, but the upfront cost is high.
Q: Do I need a separate grinder for these machines?
A: No, all models listed have built-in conical grinders, which grind fresh beans for each cup. However, standalone grinders may offer finer control for espresso enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The best built-in coffee machines of 2025 combine convenience, customization, and café-quality results. Whether you prioritize smart features (Bosch 800 Series), durability (Viking), or value (Fisher & Paykel), there’s a model to suit your needs. Consider installation type, capacity, and maintenance when choosing, and enjoy barista-style coffee at home.