If the cost of your daily coffee is starting to feel like a second rent payment, it could be time to invest in a machine of your own. The best coffee machines can replicate your favourite café order at home for a fraction of the price. Whether you choose an espresso, pod or filter machine, it will start to pay for itself within months, especially if you’re a daily coffee drinker.
But can a good coffee machine really make a difference to the taste? India Rawlins, head of brand at TrueStart Coffee, advises that barista-grade coffee is possible with modest kit, but even the best machine can't rescue poor quality beans. She recommends speciality-grade coffee beans, saying: 'Imagine the beans are your fuel and the machine is your engine. If you don't fuel it properly, you'll struggle to start.'
After weeks of testing, the Ninja Luxe Premier ES601UK emerged as the top choice. This all-in-one espresso, filter and cold brew machine delivers rich, consistent shots with proper crema. Its dual froth milk system steams and froths simultaneously for café-worthy foam, and it includes presets for steamed milk, cold foam and plant-based milk. The barista assist technology monitors pressure and flow rate, recommending grind adjustments for better espresso. While setup requires calibration and the instructions are unclear, once configured, the machine is easy to use with illuminated menus and built-in storage for accessories. Cleaning is straightforward with automatic clean and purge cycles.
For those on a budget, the Philips Sublime L'Or is the best value pod machine. It punches above its price tag, making one large cup or two small espresso shots via its distinctive double spout. It takes original Nespresso-compatible pods and L'Or branded XXL pods for larger mugs. The machine is compact and easy to use, though it lacks the versatility of the Ninja.
