There are a variety of factors to take into account when selecting the most efficient coffee maker. The most important factor is the kind of drink you want to make.
This model made a smooth, rich cup of coffee as well as excellent cappuccinos and lattes. It was also among the quietest super-automatics we test.
1. De'Longhi All in One Combination Coffee Machine
This machine is ideal for drip coffee lovers who are looking to explore espresso. It performs well in both espresso and coffee modes, and features a clear, intuitive user interface that makes it simple to use. It's a semiautomatic device, which means you'll need to perform some work like filling the filter with water and then pulling an espresso shot, however it gives you more control over your coffee as well as a barista-like experience at home.
The COM532M comes with a double-sided brewer that allows you to prepare espresso on one side while a pot of drip coffee is being brewed on the other. It also comes with steam wands for making cappuccinos and lattes. It's an updated version of DeLonghi BCO430, which we tried in our lab. The new touchscreen with a digital display make it easier to use, and the modern look makes it fit well on the counter in your kitchen.
It's not the most flexible espresso and coffee maker however, you can use it without any special equipment. It does not have an integrated grinder, so you'll need to buy a separate coffee grinder. It's also slightly more expensive than other combo coffee-and-espresso machines, but it costs less than a traditional drip coffee and espresso machine. If you are an espresso and coffee enthusiast it's well worth the extra cost. This machine ranks high in our customer ratings and has a great reputation.
2. Bialetti Moka Express
A classic coffee maker that is loved among many of our coffee experts, the Bialetti Moka Express is easy to use and provides a rich and flavorful cup of coffee. Contrary to other drip brewers, this one doesn't make use of gravity, but instead rely on a system of steam pressure that is similar to espresso machines. Designed with the traditional Balletto Octagonal shape, this stovetop espresso machine is constructed of tough polished aluminum, and comes with a heat-resistant handle. It's compatible with gas and electric cooktops and even has an adapter for the induction burner.
Although this coffee maker produces about 18-ounces of espresso per batch, this yield is enough to make several cups or to serve as an espresso base for Americanos and lattes. It is easy to clean, and comes in a variety of sizes to suit your needs.
The Bialetti Spinn makes a great alternative to the Moka Express if you're looking for something more modern. It does not rely on steam, but instead employs centrifuges that push water through the grounds. The design allows for different methods of brewing, such as cold brew, pour-over and espresso. The Spinn is compatible with electric and gas stovetops and comes with a stainless steel filter and a carafe. Info can be used in conjunction with the frother to make cappuccinos, or other coffee drinks.
3. Ninja Coffee Bar
The Ninja Coffee Bar's thermal flavor extraction system improves the taste of a variety of brew types. It controls factors such as bloom time, saturation level and temperature of the water to bring out the best flavor in every cup of coffee. The Coffee Bar also features an option to brew over ice, which allows the coffee to cool and creates a refreshing cold brew. If you're looking for a latte cappuccino, espresso-style coffee the Specialty Brew option will yield a higher percentage of ground beans.
This coffee maker comes with a separate glass carafe and reservoir that makes it easy to clean. It can hold a complete or half carafe, as well as a travel mug, which makes it a great choice for those looking to make large batches of coffee. It's also a good choice for those who prefer to use reusable filters instead of paper filters.
In our tests, the Coffee Bar scored an 8 out of 10. It's a little more complex to operate than pods or single-serve models, but is simpler than the majority of drip models. Its progress bar with a light will keep you updated on the brewing process, and an integrated clock lets you program the brewing time prior to time. And for a bit of extra convenience, the Coffee Bar comes with a useful milk frother that can be placed on the side.
4. Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great option for those who wish to upgrade from an espresso machine that is basic but don't have a lot of space or budget. It's small, energy efficient and has a lot of control. It comes with a top-quality steam arm and is easy to use. It is a great option for those who wish to brew espresso or froth milk, without having a large-sized coffee maker.
The design of the machine is simple and durable however, some features were cut to reduce costs. The 2L reservoir for water is easily accessible from the side, even if your cabinets are low. It also warms quickly and has an accurate PID that determines the boiler temperature, rather than using preprogrammed settings like some other machines.
It's easy to see why this is a sought-after machine for those who love espresso. Its PID controls as well as a separate milk heating circuit make it an excellent upgrade for those who have moved beyond entry-level espresso machines. It takes some time to get used to when it comes down to grinding and tamping but the results are phenomenal. The only downside is that the Mio doesn't come with an OPV on the portafilter, which is an issue for those who aren't accustomed to operating espresso machines. However, this is a minor quibble and in the end, the Mio is a great choice for those who are new to the world of espresso or anyone who wants to reduce space.
5. Diletta Mio Professional
This brewer that is exceptional can help you enhance your espresso and coffee experiences at home. With four preset drink options and a built-in burr grinder, this machine is more than capable of making the most delicious cup of espresso you've ever tasted. With the addition of a wand that emits steam and vapors, you can make lattes, cappuccinos, and many other drinks.
This semiautomatic machine is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the professional espresso and coffee making experience without the costly price. Manual operation requires a bit of hands-on work but with a little practice, you'll be able to make coffee worthy drinks in just a few minutes.
With PID temperature control as well as a sized-just right brew boiler that carefully balances heat time and thermal mass to achieve stable conditions for brewing, a secondary steam circuit that doubles as a shot-timer, and an externally adjustable OPV for more advanced users This machine is a step up from the standard espresso maker that combines coffee and espresso. The tank is side accessible for easy refilling and its sleek design makes it an excellent addition to any kitchen.
6. Cuisinart Single-Serve Coffee Maker
This unique coffeemaker is ideal for those who prefer to enjoy a cup of coffee on their own or in the rest of a group. This dual-use device comes with a fully automatic 12-cup coffeemaker on one side and a single-serve brewer equipped with a filter cup that can be reused on the other, allowing you to please everyone's personal tastes without wasting time and resources. The machine is compatible with all Keurig K-Cup pods, and the filter cup is reusable and can be filled with ground beans for a bespoke the brewing.
This model has a slim design to save space on the countertop. It is also equipped with a drip pan that is removable and can accommodate travel cups. Both the glass reservoir as well as the drip pan are dishwasher-safe. This makes cleaning easy. The machine has a 40-second boot-up and is easy to use thanks to an intuitive touch panel. Our experienced testers loved the quick and convenient coffee-making process and discovered that the machine made great tasting coffee each time.
Choosing the right coffee maker is based on your preferences, lifestyle, and kitchen layout. Pod machines offer convenience however they can also be costly and don't give as rich of taste as traditional methods like French presses or pour-overs. If you're looking for a less wasteful alternative that is more flexible look into a pour-over or drip machine like the Kalita Wave Dripper 185. This manual brewer lets you measure water and grounds to get the best flavor. It can be easily put in a bag or backpack for brewing on the go.
