If you are one of the countless readers who love coffee (I guess you are, since you are reading my blog), then it may be a good idea to get an espresso machine.
With an espresso machine, you can significantly increase the quality of your coffee, and it can give you a greater insight into the world of espresso and what opportunities suddenly arise.
If you do not understand the espresso machine world, it can quickly become an unmanageable task, and it can therefore be an advantage to research the market and the different models so that you can get an overview.
Let your needs and desires control your desire to buy so you get hold of an espresso machine perfect for you and your family.
Quick and to the point..
If you do not have time to read a long article, and just want to know the absolute best espresso machine to buy, then I will say get the Delonghi Dinamica Plus espresso machine.
In this article, we will discuss the following:
- Overview and introduction to the market’s best espresso machines
- Good advice for you who are looking for an espresso machine
- These things you need to consider before investing
- Cleaning tips for your newly acquired coffee machine
Good advice for you who are looking for an espresso machine
As explained earlier, navigating around the coffee world can be difficult.
Not only are there a wealth of many different coffee varieties, but there are also many other coffee machines to choose from, and you can quickly have a tendency to give up and just tea for the methods you are used to.
However, it is not always an advantage if you want to expand your horizons within coffee.
If you have decided to invest in a coffee machine, then it can be a good idea to start quietly, so you do not get a lot of information at once.
For example, you can first examine your needs and desires for a coffee machine.
If you like a cup of black coffee during work, it may not be sure that you will have to invest in a very advanced coffee machine if in the end there is not a great need for it.
If, on the other hand, you want to be able to unfold your inner barista at home, then you may need to look at the more advanced models.
That way, you can also impress friends and families with delicious coffee specialities when they come by.
If you have difficulty figuring out where to start, it may be a good idea to ask good friends or family for advice if there are other coffee lovers in your circle of friends or family as well.
Typically, there will certainly be mixed attitudes, but you will quickly be able to get an overview of what you would like and what needs you have for a coffee machine.
Also, it is always an advantage to have two to investigate, so you can get someone else’s attitude to the machines you find.
For example, if your partner is also crazy about coffee, it can be smart to sit down together.
That way, you can also easily divide it a little, so you both find some models you like, and then you can assess which model suits you best.
If you are on a bare bottom, however, it can also be a good idea to go to a local store that sells coffee machines, so you can get an idea of ​​how much they typically take up on the kitchen table, and so you can form a physical impression of the machines you can choose from.
In a physical store, you also have the opportunity to get help from a professional who can briefly recommend different models based on different needs.
Often the choice becomes more comfortable when you have seen something in physical form, as it can be difficult to imagine what the coffee machine would look like on the kitchen table if you have only seen a picture of it.
You can get an overview in many different ways, and it is therefore important that you find your own method that you can find your way around.
Alternatively, you can write down the models that capture your interest. In this way, you eventually have different models to compare with each other and make a choice and decision more comfortable.
Once you have got your new coffee machine home, it can be a great advantage to read the included operating instructions, so you are 100% sure that you are using the machine optimally and as it should be used.
That way, you can also quickly get an overview of the various functions and settings, so you do not have to spend several hours running the various programs and getting to know the machine.
In the user manual, you will find all the information you need and even more.
In the instructions, you will also be able to find out how to disassemble the machine when it needs to be cleaned and how to reassemble it without ending up in problems.
So while it may be a slavish job to read and skim through the manual, you are doing yourself a favour when you suddenly end up in a situation where you need to know something that can only be found in the manual.
In the instructions, you will also be able to find out how to disassemble the machine when it needs to be cleaned and how to reassemble it without ending up in problems.
So while it may be a slave’s job to read and skim through the manual, you are doing yourself a favour when you suddenly end up in a situation where you need to know something that can only be found in the manual.
Things you need to consider before investing in an espresso machine
It can be tempting to buy the most expensive and advanced model on the market, but it can quickly become an expensive mistake if you just get carried away and in reality do not need many advanced options.
It is therefore important that you know yourself and your family well before investing so that you find a coffee machine that fits well into your household.
That is why there are also many things that you or you must consider together so that you can get on the right track faster when it comes to finding a suitable coffee machine.
You can often become impatient, but you must arm yourself with a good portion of patience if you want to find the perfect match.
Below you can get an overview and a brief explanation of what you should consider before investing.
How important is the design?
Design is for some more important than for others.
If you want to have a coffee machine that can stand out, it is essential to consider the design.
Therefore, you must first think about how big a cash register you can have in the kitchen before filling up too much.
Some machines are more compact than others, which should be kept in mind before investing in a machine.
Next, consider whether you have any specific preferences in terms of design, appearance and style.
If you have a white kitchen, a black coffee machine can stand out a lot, but some prefer the machine to stand out.
However, make sure not to focus too much on the coffee machine’s design – it can ruin the process if you get stained by design.
Functionality is just as important if you want to invest in a machine that can meet your needs.
What about materials?
Materials are perhaps the factor that few people think about.
However, keep in mind that if you want a machine that can last for many years, it must be produced and built with strong materials that can last for a bit of everything.
There are many different machines, and therefore they also come in many other materials, and it is also worth considering before any investment.
Depending on what price range you move within, you will see the difference in the different materials.
If you look in the more expensive price range, you will find that the machines are typically produced in stainless steel, while the cheaper models are often made in plastic.
It is a matter of taste, and it is therefore also very individual.
If you find a plastic machine that you think is robust, and of high quality, there is nothing in the way of investing in it.
Of course, the durability also depends on how you treat the machine, how often it is used and how much focus you put on cleaning.
How to choose between the different manufacturers?
If you already have a bit of knowledge within the kitchen machine world, then it may be that you already have a preference that can make a choice easier for you.
If, on the contrary, you have no preferences and no experience or knowledge in the field, it can suddenly become a big task of having to choose the right manufacturer and the right brand.
When you as a first-time buyer have to go out and invest in a kitchen machine, you may tend to be guided by consumer reviews and various tests, as it feels safe and secure, and that can be an advantage.
So there is no reason to feel misled but instead guided. As a rule, you rarely go into town following the recommendations, and you will eventually be happy about that too.
Before you decide, you can also research the different brands so that you do not get stuck on one particular brand before the hunt really starts.
For example, you can investigate where the machines are produced, while it can also be a good idea to know if there is a guarantee with the purchase of a kitchen machine or benefit from extra service.
Also, it can be an advantage to know whether the products have been thoroughly tested, so that you can get an overview of which machines would best suit your needs, and whether there are some functions that, for example, work poorly or surprisingly well.
What about accessories?
The world of coffee machines is large, and therefore there are also good opportunities to buy extra equipment for your new coffee machine if there is a need for it.
If you already know before purchase that you want to upgrade your kitchen machine, it can also be an advantage to examine the various options for accessories to get the right model.
There is nothing worse than coming home with a machine that does not meet the criteria and requirements one has.
However, you must always keep in mind that neither milk nor beans are included in the purchase, and you can therefore buy it separately.
How to get an overview of the various functions and settings?
If you have not had a coffee machine before, you will quickly discover an ocean of ​​functions and settings that you do not immediately know about.
It can help make a choice and the decision even more complicated, and it can be a good idea to try to get acquainted with the different things before choosing so that you are sure that you know what one’s newly acquired coffee machine can.
The various functions and settings can also pave the way for your search to know what you want and what you need.
Many models on the market today have both a built-in grinder and milk frother, while cleaning and memory functions are not available on all models.
If you need help to form an impression, the web can always be a good help.
On the web, you can both seek inspiration. At the same time, you also have the opportunity to acquire a lot of new knowledge about coffee machines in general and the various functions and settings.
How can you be sure that you are making the right choice?
Throughout the process, many questions will arise, and doubts will arise.
Some will be confused throughout the process until one finds the right machine, while others benefit from sitting down and researching the market thoroughly.
Once you enter the market, the question of whether to have a manual, semi-automatic or fully automatic machine will quickly arise.
The question gives rise to find the first information that one can acquire in the process, which can be crucial for the choice one makes.
You must also decide on the design, functions and settings, and whether you want a capsule machine instead.
A capsule machine is a newer invention, and this type of machine has become popular among people with a busy schedule, as you have to put a capsule in the machine to get a good coffee.
However, if you like to indulge in coffee, then an espresso machine is the right choice for you.
One last piece of good advice is to follow your gut feeling.
If you have a favourite from the start, there may be a good reason to research that particular machine more closely, and you may also find that you keep going back to the same machine.
However, you should not invest in the first and cheapest machine you find as it is rarely the best option if one has some specific wants and needs.
How to ensure a clean coffee machine every time
The bigger a coffee machine you buy, the more cleaning there will be.
However, the cleaning factor should not play a significant role when choosing the right coffee machine, as it is largely the coffee and the result you get that should be in focus.
However, it may be a good idea to have the cleaning of the machine in your head when you put the hunt in so that you get hold of a machine that meets your criteria.
Some models have a built-in cleaning program, and that is a clear advantage.
If you use the coffee machine a lot, you will also have a greater need to clean it regularly, and there the automatic cleaning program can help you in a big way.
When talking about cleaning the machine, materials can also be of great importance.
If you have bought a machine from the lower price range, you may have to compromise both with the built-in cleaning program and the materials in which the machine itself is produced.
Plastic gets dirty quickly, but fortunately, it is also easy to clean again.
It can be a good idea to run a damp cloth over the coffee machine when you clean the house, while it may also need a head cleaning once in a while so that you regularly provide a clean and neat machine.
When you clean the machine regularly, you automatically extend the shelf life, and it is an advantage if you want to keep the coffee machine for many years without replacing it with a new one.
When you are looking for a coffee machine, it can be smart to see if the coffee machine can be disassembled.
If the parts of the coffee machine can be taken off the machine, it is easier to clean the different parts, and it is also easier to get into the other hooks and corners, where dust quickly collects when the machine is on the kitchen table all the time.
When you cook, you can not avoid dusting and cluttering the kitchen, and you may, therefore have a greater need to clean the coffee machine than you first expected.
If you do not want to clean the machine as often, you can set it in a closed kitchen cabinet.
In this way, it collects minimal dust. Still, it can be a significant disadvantage to having it in a cupboard, as you do not use the full potential of the coffee machine, while it can also be a hassle to have the machine in and out of the kitchen cabinet.
A coffee machine can be heavy, and that’s another thing to consider.
A coffee machine needs water to make coffee, which also means that you can get a machine that has lime sitting in different places.
You can usually take the water tank out and clean it for yourself, but having to clean the inside of the coffee machine suddenly becomes a completely different challenge.
However, many manufacturers have come to you in advance, and therefore many machines have a built-in descaling program.
The program must be run regularly if you want to have a clean and neat coffee machine with a long life.
You will be able to read more about the program in the accompanying user guide, so you know how to behave.
If you are still in doubt about how to behave when investing in a new coffee machine, then you should start by sitting down and writing down your wishes on a piece of paper.
The web can then help you on the right path, so you are sure that you will find the machines that can meet your needs and requirements.
If necessary, read this guide a few times to make sure you are in control of the most important things, and so that you have good advice to follow so that you only make the process easier for yourself.
Finding the right coffee machine is not difficult when you know what you are looking for and how to deal with the large market, which can otherwise be quite a challenge to move and navigate around.
Below you can see my favourite coffee machines of 2021
Delonghi Dinamica Plus espresso machine ECAM37085B Espresso machine
Worked well right out of the box.
The machine gives instructions to get started.
It is important to find the right degree of grinding for the beans, as it is with all espresso machines with integrated grinders, and once that’s done, you are set.
It makes great coffee; it is easy to use and easy to keep clean.
The milk frother works great.
The app for making coffee via Bluetooth is above expectations.
In summary, I had high expectations before testing this, but the machine exceeded my expectations.
With the Delonghi Dinamica Plus espresso machine ECAM37085B, you get a good start to the day every day with a delicious cup of coffee.
Just pour your favourite beans into the machine, and it will do all the work for you.
The espresso machine can be easily operated via the Smart One Touch function or the Coffee Link app, and you can save your favourite settings with the MY function.
When you have finished your coffee, the machine automatically cleans itself.
Bean-to-cup machine:
This fully automatic espresso machine is the obvious choice for you who love all kinds of coffee and have a busy everyday life where you do not have time for thorough coffee preparation in the morning.
Just pick your favourite blend of freshly roasted, aromatic coffee beans, pour them into the container and water tank, and you’re at the touch of a button from a delicious cup of coffee.
The machine also gives you several options for preparing the coffee exactly the way you want it, or you can add creamy milk froth and make a delicious cappuccino or cafe latte.
MY function:
With the MY function, you can easily save your favourite settings, so you do not have to set everything from scratch every time you want a cup of coffee.
Latte Crema system:
With the Latte Crema system, you can make a creamy cappuccino or latte with light and delicious milk foam.
Display:
On the 3.5 “TFT screen, you can quickly get the full overview of your coffee brewing.
The espresso machine is operated via the Smart One Touch function, so you always have quick and easy access to your favourite beverage with a single touch. The coffee, you usually do, still appears first on the screen.
coffee Link app:
Via coffee Link app, you can quickly and conveniently operate the espresso machine, so for example. Can be a delicious cup of coffee for you when you get home. The app is available App Store on your iPhone or Google Play for Android, giving you access to personal settings, support and service manuals.
Self-cleaning function:
With the self-cleaning function, you do not have to worry about cleaning your espresso machine every time after use – it does it yourself, so you can calmly drink your coffee.
Drip tray:
The drip tray and the brewing unit itself can both be placed in the dishwasher.
There is really nothing negative to say about this machine.
It just works, and if you are looking for something that “just works hen this machine is for you.
Philips HD8829 espresso machine
This model is compact, but that does not mean you have to compromise on quality.
It has a high-quality ceramic grinder and an external milk holder so that you can ensure milk froth on your coffee.
In addition to the grinder and milk holder, the machine is also equipped with a control button, so you can set whether you want regular coffee or, for example, an espresso.
The machine is operated via buttons with pictograms, which makes it user-friendly.
It also allows you to brew two cups of coffee at once, and you can, therefore, easily offer your friends and family coffee without them having to wait long.
The tap is adjustable so that you can adjust the machine yourself depending on the cups.
The machine’s grinder can also be set and adjusted so that you are in control of how your coffee beans are ground, depending on your wishes and needs.
Also, the machine can remember your settings, so you do not have to set the machine every time it is used.
A significant advantage of this model is that you can reduce the risk of getting a burnt taste, as the grinder is in ceramic.
This ensures that the machine does not overheat.
Because this one has a ceramic grinder, it also means that it typically has a longer service life than if you compare with the models that have steel grinders.
You also avoid sour milk, as the machine has a built-in function that cleans the parts that have to do with milk.
Advantages of this model:
- Many built-in features that increase usability
- Extended service life due to ceramic grinder
- Can brew two cups at the same time
- Water capacity of 1.8 litres
- Bean capacity of 250 grams
Melitta Caffeo Solo & Perfect Milk espresso machine
If you need a machine that does not take up much space on the kitchen table and that you do not have to move around frequently, then this model may be right for you.
The model is compact, but you can still ensure useful features.
For example, the machine has an automatic milk frother, so you do not have to compromise on the coffee quality in the home.
The milk frother can give you everything from hot to skim milk, which goes smoothly and quickly.
The machine is operated via a control panel, and you also have the option of switching off the coffee machine completely when you are not using it.
The coffee can be easily adjusted on the panel so that you can control both coffee strength and temperature.
Therefore, this machine fits well in a small kitchen, where you still want to have a little luxury in everyday life in the form of one or more good cups of coffee during the day.
If you have a job where you work from home, a coffee machine can of course also be an excellent investment, just as it can also be useful when you get friends and family to visit who are also crazy about a good cup of coffee that tastes a little out of the ordinary.
Advantages of this model:
- Benefit from both automatic milk frother and cleaning
- User-friendly due to an easy control panel
- Water capacity of 1.2 litres
- Bean capacity of 125 grams
If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, while still getting a good espresso machine, this is one to look at.
It’s worth the cost and makes good coffee.
Melitta Caffeo Solo espresso machine
If you are looking for a cheap solution, this model may be the perfect match.
Because this coffee machine is cheaper than many other models on the market, you have to do without the milk function with this model – it can be an advantage if you still do not like the milk in the coffee.
However, the fact that you have to do without the milk function does not mean that the machine is inferior to other models on the market.
This model is compact and extremely user-friendly.
On the control panel, you can find a few buttons, which makes brewing the perfect cup of coffee some of the easiest.
Although the model is compact, you can still benefit from the fact that you can adjust the coffee strength yourself, while you also have the option of brewing two cups of coffee at once.
The coffee outlets are adjustable in height, and you, therefore, do not have to invest in new glasses if you choose this model.
Advantages of this model:
- Cheap model if you can do without milk frother
- User-friendly with several different adjustment options
- Water capacity of 1.2 litres
- Bean capacity of 125 grams
Philips 3000 Series HD8821/01 espresso machine
If you want a coffee machine with an excellent design that will decorate the kitchen, this model is the right one.
Many coffee lovers take great pride in brewing delicious coffee every day, and therefore many also want their coffee machine to stand out.
Not only has this coffee machine been praised for its design, but the machine also works perfectly well.
It especially scores many points on ease of use, while at the same time brewing good coffee every time.
If you are a beginner in the world of coffee, it can be difficult to adjust and set up a coffee machine.
Preferences are also very individual, and therefore it is not certain that your partner thinks your favourite cup of coffee is the best.
However, you can easily and quickly set this machine to preferences via 5 manual settings.
The machine can both brew espresso, while you can also enjoy other varieties with the machine.
If a lot of coffee is drunk in your household, it is also an advantage to invest in a machine with a large container for beans, and this machine can contain 250 grams of coffee beans, which means that it rarely needs to be refilled.
You can also quickly brew each of your favourite cups of coffee, as the machine also has a built-in memory function.
Also, it is possible to brew two cups at once, and the machine also fits many different glass sizes, as it is also adjustable.
If you choose this machine for your kitchen, you can feel like you are a true barista in your own home.
Advantages of this model:
- A smart design that fits into most kitchens
- Benefit from many built-in functions including cleaning program as well as memory function
- Manual milk frother
- Water capacity of 1.8 litres
- Bean capacity of up to 250 grams
This great espresso machine has a newer version called 3200, and both are worth their price in gold.
Siemens EQ.3 S300 espresso machine
If you need a model that can ensure a tasty cup of coffee every time, without requiring the large arm movements, then you should have this machine in your considerations.
This machine ensures that you easily and quickly have a good cup of coffee in your hands with one click of a button.
Also, you can benefit from adjusting the strength of the coffee yourself, while you also have the option of having skim milk in your cup of coffee if you prefer.
This machine has a simple design that fits well in the kitchen if you want the machine to stand out all the time.
This is a clear advantage, as otherwise, it can be challenging to move around the machine as needed.
If you choose this machine, you will find that the milk frother is located somewhere other than when compared to other models on the market.
It is located in the middle of the machine’s outlet. In this way, you can make many different coffee varieties without moving the cup around several times during the process.
Also, as a bonus, you can easily remove the milk frother when it needs to be cleaned, and it can again come in the dishwasher if you do not want to clean it by hand.
The machine is operated primarily via an intuitive touch panel, where you can adjust the coffee’s strength and decide for yourself what type of coffee you want.
Also, you have the option of heating your cup on the coffee machine so that the freshly brewed coffee does not come in a cold cup.
All in all, this model scores top marks on both ease of use, quality and cleaning, and therefore you can safely invest in this particular model if you love a good cup of coffee at a reasonable price.
Advantages of this model:
- Smart touch panel gives you an overview
- Easy cleaning with a removable milk frother
- Enjoy a good cup of coffee every time – as you like it best
- Get rid of worries due to built-in auto power off
- Water capacity of 1.4 litres
- Bean capacity of 250 grams
If you are interested in this, its available here on Amazon. truly an amazing coffee machine, that I highly recommend.
Delonghi Magnifica ECAM 21.117.B espresso machine
If you are looking for a fully automatic espresso machine with a compact design, you should write this machine on the list of the machines you are considering investing in.
With this machine, you can adjust many different things, which means that in the end, you always can ensure you get a good cup of coffee every time – just the way you like it.
Because it has a compact design, you do not have to move around the entire kitchen, and you can therefore also have the machine to stand in front at any time.
The machine differs slightly from other machines on the market, as this can also brew coffee on ground coffee, and in the end, this means that you have the opportunity to brew several different types of coffee.
When the machine is to be used, use the display with which the machine is equipped.
On the display, you can easily adjust and set everything as needed, so you can get the cup of coffee you have daydreamed about all day.
It has buttons on the front panel, and you are in no doubt about what the buttons are for, as it can be easily read on the buttons.
All of this, of course, helps to increase usability significantly.
The machine can be easily cleaned, as it has both a built-in cleaning program and a descaling program.
This model has a powerful engine, but that does not mean that you have to compromise on the sound level.
The machine can brew up to two cups of coffee at a time without you having to fear that it makes a terrible noise.
If you forget to switch off the machine after use, you will avoid worries and high numbers on the electricity bill, as the machine has a built-in auto-shut-off function.
This also reduces accidents.
The machine offers a choice of options, and you can, therefore, both enjoy a good cup of coffee with perfect milk froth. At the same time, you also have the option to adjust the aroma, amount of water and more, so you find the right settings that can satisfy your taste buds.
The grinder on the machine has 13 different levels that you can choose from, and you can therefore also try your hand until you find the right solution for you.
Advantages of this model:
- A fully automatic machine that offers a choice of different settings and adjustments
- Make sure you have a good coffee experience every time with 13 different levels on the grinder
- Easy cleaning and descaling
- Stylish and simple design that fits into any kitchen
Final thoughts…
It’s almost impossible to tell someone the best espresso machine because many different factors are involved, such as do you prefer fully automatic, or completely manual?
Maybe Semi-automatic, or do you actually, in reality, prefer a classic drip coffee machine such as a MoccaMaster?
I have tried to give you my thoughts on some of the best options here in 2021.
Some others, such as the Breville Barista Express, the Breville Bambino and the Delonghi Specialista, but I have reviews on them already.
Personally, I love my Breville Barista Express, and that’s the one I use daily.
These other ones are just as good; it depends on what you prefer…
Either way, you will be thrilled with any of the options I have given you in this article.
