Which coffee maker to choose? Ranking of espresso machines at different prices

We all love coffee, or at least the vast majority of us do. Even if we drink a little too much of it sometimes, it is certainly important that we always drink good coffee in the first place. For this reason, a coffee machine is a must for any coffee drinker. Just which one to choose?

Types of coffee machines
How to find the best espresso machine in your price range?

Types of espresso machines

There are several general types of coffee makers available on the market:

Capsule machines

Capsule machines are a very large segment of the coffee machine market. To use such an espresso machine, you need a special coffee capsule hermetically sealed in aluminum or plastic. With such a capsule we will make black coffee, espresso, but also latte or cappuccino.

The advantages of a capsule machine:

Very simple and convenient to use.
There are many flavours of coffee.
Easy to keep clean.
Takes up little space.

Some say that coffee from a capsule lacks the depth and intensity of flavor characteristic of „real” coffee.
Aluminum-based capsules can be recycled in various ways, but usually end up in a landfill, causing waste and environmental hazards.
They cost more in the long run than freshly ground coffee, but are still cheaper than going to a coffee shop.

Automatic espresso machines

Automatic coffee makers are certainly very convenient to use. Simply place the cup under the machine, press the button to grind the beans, and get the exact strength and volume you want. Some automatically froth the milk for cappuccinos and lattes, while others have a nozzle where you can froth the milk yourself.

Easier to use than semi-automatic or manual machines.
They use freshly ground beans instead of capsules and you can control the grind according to your requirements.
You can usually save several “programs” or user profiles with your favourite coffee styles.
Some have a “self-cleaning” mode that minimizes the hassle of cleaning and descaling the machine.

They can be more expensive than other types of coffee makers, and their higher price does not guarantee that they will make good coffee.
They can be quite heavy, ranging from 8 to 12 kilograms.
These machines are quite large, taking up a lot of space (not suitable for small kitchens).

Flask coffee makers

Hand-held flask coffee makers let you experiment and get more out of your coffee. They require a little more knowledge and practice in. To use them, pour the required amount of ground coffee into the flask, then assemble it and start the machine

The depth of flavour achieved with fresh coffee.
The satisfaction of making your own cup of coffee just the way you like it.
The right price/quality ratio.

Difficult to use
Difficult to clean

Filter coffee makers

Filter coffee makers are extremely easy to use, inexpensive and can deliver the taste of good coffee. Moreover, with their help you can create a whole pot of coffee, not just a cup, so you can serve the whole family in one go.