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The best coffee machines to buy in 2026, out of over 115 models tested by experts
Including espresso, bean-to-cup, filter, and pod coffee machines
Coffee is big business, with an estimated 98 million cups drunk every day in Britain. In fact, we may be known as a nation of tea drinkers but research suggests our coffee habit has taken over.
And as much as we enjoy popping out to a café for coffee and cake (it's basically self-care), having the best coffee machine at home is an essential for many of us — particularly first thing in the morning. Modern machines can whip up everything from a classic espresso to a frothy vanilla latte in seconds.
But they can be a significant investment, which is why the Good Housekeeping Institute has tried and tested over 115 models to find the best coffee machine money can buy.
The best coffee machines to buy in 2026
Best automatic coffee machine
De'Longhi Rivelia EXAM440.55.B Fully Automatic Coffee Machine with LatteCrema Technology
Read review
Best coffee machine with a manual steam wand
Sage the Barista Express™ Impress Coffee Machine
Read review
Best Deal
How we test coffee machines
We’ve drunk a lot of coffee in our quest to find the best machines. We’ve brewed espressos, whipped up lattes, frothed cappuccinos and poured flat whites using every type and style of coffee machine.
This is what we consider when looking for the best home brewers. (Note, for fairness, we use 100% Arabica beans – 4 roast – across all our tests, except for pod coffee machines, where we use the capsules provided or the manufacturer's recommended ones.)
Consistent results every time: You want every coffee you make to be as good as the next. To ensure consistency, we measure the weight and temperature of each espresso shot poured, record the extraction time in seconds, and adjust the grind size to find the perfect setting so there’s no over- or under-extraction.
Crema: With each coffee, we look for a thick crema that has a chestnut colour to it. It should remain stable on top of the coffee and not disappear after the first sip.
Milk preparation: If the coffee machine has a steam wand or milk frother, we steam milk and dairy-free alternatives to see if it achieves the right texture and volume for specific recipes. We also take a temperature reading to check it has reached the optimum heat for a velvety milk.
Design: Features like easy-to-manoeuvre steam wands and water tanks that are simple to remove are also important, so machines with a smart, user-friendly design win extra points.
Ease of use: From self-cleaning settings to automatic milk frothing, we get to grips with each machine to ensure all the controls are easy to use, logical and responsive.
These are the models that performed the best in our rigorous testing.
De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950.M
De'Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus EC950.M
Pros
- Clear indicator light shows when the machine has pre-heated
- Compact design
- Premium build
Cons
- Can’t steam milk and make an espresso at the same time
- Lack of information on target yield and extraction rates
Score: 98/100
Achieving an impressive near-perfect score, De’Longhi’s espresso machine has more than earnt its place in our list. It impressed in testing by delivering consistently excellent espressos, while the automatic milk system, which has three temperature profiles, made texturing milk effortless, creating a delicious, foamy finish our experts loved.
The controls are on the top of the machine, which makes them a little tricky to see depending on your height and countertop setup, but there wasn’t much else we could fault. With its large water tank and range of accessories, including a milk jug, tamper, dosage spoon and cleaning tools, this is an excellent buy for any espresso-lover.
Key specifications
| Type | Espresso machine |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 1.6L |
| Adjustable settings | Extraction temperature, milk texture |
| Pressure (bar) | 15 |
| Milk frother | Yes - automatic steam wand |
| Automatic drinks | No |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 17.716536 x 7.4803147 x 12.795276 Inches |
De'Longhi Rivelia EXAM440.55.B Fully Automatic Coffee Machine with LatteCrema Technology
De'Longhi Rivelia EXAM440.55.B Fully Automatic Coffee Machine with LatteCrema Technology
Pros
- Very easy to adjust the grind size
- Clear LCD screen that allows you to pick what drink you want
- Good for beginners – very user friendly
Cons
- Can’t control the temperature or power of the steam as it’s all automatic
- The LCD screen wasn’t always the most responsive
Score: 95/100
This machine takes note of what drinks you select at different times of the day and then provides a personalised menu to suit your preferences. There are also 16 automatic drink settings to choose from, making it a great pick if you love to switch things up or are catering to a household with varying tastes. The bean hoppers are interchangeable too, so you can have two different types within reach without needing to empty and refill each time.
In our testing, it made consistently good espressos with a nice layer of crema on top, and the automatic frother takes all the stress out of making milky drinks. That said, latte fans might be disappointed, as it didn’t quite achieve the right texture for our froth.
There are only seven grind settings too, but most coffee-lovers should be able to find one to suit their tastes. All in all, it’s a quality machine.
Key specifications
| Type | Bean to cup machine |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 1.4L |
| Adjustable settings | Grind size, interchangeable hoppers |
| Pressure (bar) | 19 |
| Milk frother | Yes - automatic steam wand |
| Automatic drinks | Yes |
Sage the Barista Express™ Impress Coffee Machine
Sage the Barista Express™ Impress Coffee Machine
Pros
- Includes a QR code to help with quick set-up
- Machine maintains pressure, temperature and power when pouring multiple espressos in a row
- Very sleek design with a quality build
Cons
- Expensive
- Portafilter baskets were slightly tough to remove
Score: 95/100
This Sage bean-to-cup coffee machine takes care of everything for you, automatically grinding and tamping your coffee for consistent coffees every time. It also preheats in a rapid 30 seconds, and the steam wand is ready to use as soon as your espresso is poured, so you won’t be waiting long for your caffeine hit.
Adjusting the volume of the pour took some getting used to (we had to refer to the manual a few times) but that’s to be expected with so many settings available. It took a little while to steam the milk to the right temperature, too, which lost it some points. That said, it created the right texture each time.
The clue is in the name; this coffee machine is impressive.
Key specifications
| Type | Bean to cup machine |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 2L |
| Adjustable settings | Grind size, dosage |
| Pressure (bar) | 15 |
| Milk frother | Yes - manual steam wand |
| Automatic drinks | No |
Morning Coffee Machine
Morning Coffee Machine
Pros
- Sleek and compact
- Very accurate and consistent
- Cup stand has a non-slip surface
Cons
- More complex than other pod models
- Often has to get back up to temperature before starting the next drink
Score: 95/100
With a digital display showcasing the menu and brewing process, this machine makes prepping your morning coffee a breeze. The Nespresso-compatible model has 10 adjustable pre-set coffee styles, including Kyoto-style slow drip, as well as built-in scales for accurate, consistent espressos.
While it’s a fairly complex (and impressive) machine that may well take some getting used to, the instructions are clear and concise. Plus, there’s a compatible app offering recipe ideas and personalisation. One for coffee aficionados that want the convenience of a pod system.
Key specifications
| Type | Pod coffee machine |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 850ml |
| Pod type | Nespresso |
| Milk frother | None |
| Programmes | 8 |
Philips 5400 Series Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine
Philips 5400 Series Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine
Pros
- Allows you to check the hardness of your water and comes with an ‘aquaclean’ filter
- Easy to clean
- Good for beginners
Cons
- Extraction times were average (but the shots still tasted good)
- The lid on the milk frother didn’t feel that sturdy
Score: 94/100
With four user profiles that allow you to save your preferred aroma and volume, this machine is ideal for coffee-loving households. The clear LCD screen is easy to read and operate, helping us to get set up and brewing quickly. And we were impressed with its espressos, which are full of flavour and had a wonderful crema on top.
The automatic milk steaming technology worked a treat, frothing both normal and plant-based milks to the right temperature and creating micro-foam in the process. We wish you could move the spout as some milk spilt when it was dispensed into the cup. But all in all, this is a fantastic bean-to-cup machine at a reasonable price.
Key specifications
| Type | Bean to cup machine |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 1.8L |
| Adjustable settings | Grind size |
| Pressure (bar) | 15 |
| Milk frother | Yes - automatic steam wand |
| Automatic drinks | Yes |
Opal One Pod Machine Bundle
Opal One Pod Machine Bundle
Pros
- Compact and easy to fit on your countertop
- Indicators show when it needs descaling or when the water tank is empty
- Very easy to use
Score: 94/100
This slim pod coffee machine is easy to set up and straightforward to use from start to finish, making it an excellent pick for beginners. That said, there’s still plenty to love if you’re a coffee aficionado, from the adjustable brew temperature and volume to its compatibility with speciality coffee capsules.
It proved consistent in testing, delivering delicious espressos every time. Plus, our experts loved that you could adjust the height to accommodate both tall and short mugs. The capsule holder is a little stiff, and the machine was on the noisier side, but we could turn a blind eye to that given the finished result.
Philips Barista Brew Semi Automatic Espresso Machine
Philips Barista Brew Semi Automatic Espresso Machine
Pros
- Well-designed and has a quality build
- Large tank capacity
- Easy to remove and refill the water tank
Cons
- No hot water-only option
- Can’t use the steam wand and brew espresso at the same time
Score: 92/100
This bean-to-cup model is ready to brew as soon as you switch it on and there’s a dedicated button just for Americanos. It’s so easy, you could probably operate it with one sleepy eye still shut.
That said, the steam wand is manual so it may take some practice to perfect your lattes if you’re a beginner, but you should eventually be able to create smooth, shiny micro foam just like our experts. Overall, this is a great option if you want to get more hands-on with your coffee-making but can’t afford for your new mini barista to break the bank.
Key specifications
| Type | Bean to cup machine |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 2.3L |
| Adjustable settings | Grind size |
| Pressure (bar) | 15 |
| Automatic drinks | Yes |
Swan Espresso Machine
Pros
- Indicator lights show when the machine is ready
- Instructions include guidance on the descaling process
- Affordable
Cons
- Portafilter is a little stiff to slot in
- Not much guidance on how to make different drinks in the manual
Score: 92/100
This espresso machine really looks the part on your kitchen counter with its retro design and wooden accents. But it’s not its looks that impressed our experts – it pre-heated in 60 seconds and delivered consistent shots with a nice layer of crema.
We managed to achieve some good micro foam with the steam wand too, making it an ideal pick for both Americanos and milky drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. Plus, the simple, uncluttered control panel makes it more beginner friendly.
It’s not as premium as other models we’ve tested – it feels lighter and has a more basic build – but for those shopping on a smaller budget, this machine doesn’t disappoint.
Key specifications
| Type | Espresso machine |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 1.2L |
| Adjustable settings | Steam control |
| Pressure (bar) | 15 |
| Milk frother | Yes - manual steam wand |
| Automatic drinks | No |
KitchenAid Drip Coffee Maker 1.7L
KitchenAid Drip Coffee Maker 1.7L
Pros
- Has a ‘keep warm’ function
- Clear instructions
- Has a reusable filter
Cons
- No coffee scoop included
- On the pricier side for a drip coffee machine
Score: 89/100
Your morning coffee don’t get much simpler than this. With a huge 12-cup capacity, a 24-hour timer, and a “pause and pour” feature that stops the brewing process while you serve, this filter coffee machine is a solid investment.
It was ready to use as soon as we switched it on in the lab and our coffee brewed quickly too. Plus, it tasted delicious and the jug’s wide spout made pouring straightforward.
The digital display is on the side, which could be awkward to reach depending on how it’s positioned on your countertop, but this is a reliable drip coffee maker that’s available in sleek black or classic KitchenAid red.
Key specifications
| Type | Filter coffee machine |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 2.8L |
| Type of carafe | Glass |
| Customisable options | Strength |
Illy Y3.3 Espresso & Coffee Machine
Illy Y3.3 Espresso & Coffee Machine
Pros
- Power save function turns the machine off if its idle for 15 minutes
- Indicator shows when it needs descaling
- Compact design
Cons
- Smaller water tank
- When pouring hot water, the stream splashes a bit
Score: 85/100
This post-box red pod coffee machine is the answer for those who are tight on countertop space. At just 10 cm wide and 25 cm deep, it will slot nicely into small gaps, while delivering a touch of character (and plenty of caffeine).
It took 50 seconds to preheat but delivered excellent espressos time after time. You can programme a custom volume and the espresso stand folds away for when you want a larger cup of coffee.
The build is a little on the flimsy side and there’s no steam wand, so you’ll need to invest in a milk frother for lattes and cappuccinos. However, this small yet mighty pod machine is still excellent value.
Key specifications
| Type | Pod coffee machine |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 0.75L |
| Pod type | Iperespresso |
| Milk frother | None |
| Programmes | 2 |
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute?
Each coffee machine is tested in our lab in the same way as you would use them at home, so you know they’ll deliver when you need them most. We pour espressos, steam milk for lattes and cappuccinos, and adjust the settings to make our perfect cup.
We also collect as much data as we can, looking at how long each machine takes to preheat, the temperature of the drinks made, and the weight of the espresso produced. This way, we can accurately compare models and work out which one is truly the best based on facts, not just opinion.
Our senior homes and lifestyle writer, Megan Geall, is a big coffee drinker and knows exactly what matters (and what doesn’t) when it comes to the best coffee machines. She looks after all our coffee machine buying guides and has also written about the best coffee grinders and best milk frothers to help you create cafe-quality drinks at home.
The verdict: What is the best coffee machine?
Our top-scoring model is an espresso machine – the De’Longhi Dedica Maestro Plus – which impressed us with its consistency, automatic milk preparation, and price, coming in at under £400.
If you're looking for a bean to cup coffee machine, our top pick is either the Sage Barista Express Impress or the De’Longhi Rivelia. Both are great buys but the Sage has a manual steam wand and the De'Longhi has an automatic one, making it slightly easier for beginners to use.
What are the different types of coffee machine?
There are four main types of machines to choose from: pod, espresso, filter and bean-to-cup. These are the pros and cons of each.
Bean-to-cup coffee machines
You should opt for one of the best bean-to-cup coffee machines if you:
- want the full barista experience at home
- want to create a range of drinks, including cappuccinos, flat whites and lattes
- want a variety in flavours and blends
- are beginning to learn the complexities of coffee-making, including grind size, extraction, and milk steaming
These machines tend to be the most expensive but are a worthwhile investment for coffee lovers. Their main USP is their ability to grind coffee from beans in mere minutes, leading to unrivalled freshness.
You’ll also have more control over drink size, coffee strength and extraction time, to help you make the perfect cup for a variety of tastes and coffee styles.
Espresso coffee machines
Choose one of the best espresso coffee machines if you:
- love espressos and don’t often drink other styles
- want smooth, fresh espressos with speciality coffee blends
The coffee-making process turns into a real experience with an espresso machine. You can get into the nitty gritty of grinding and tamping and find the perfect settings for your espresso. They’re also more compact than bean-to-cup machines, but you might need to invest in a coffee grinder if you want to use whole beans.
Pod coffee machines
Pod coffee machines use capsules to ensure coffee making is as simple as possible. You should opt for one of these if you:
- want really fast – but good – coffee
- are looking for easy, dependable results
- don't have much space on your kitchen counter
These machines are simple to use and deliver consistent coffees, but they won’t give you the same level of control as other models. However, for no-fuss, no-frills coffee, a pod machine should be your go-to.
Filter coffee machines
Finally, for straightforward models that make multiple cups of delicious hot coffee, consider the best filter coffee machines (aka drip coffee makers). These will appeal to those looking for:
- a simple, user-friendly, affordable way of making coffee
- a way to make larger quantities of coffee
- a machine that makes americanos
Most models can make up to 10 cups and feature “keep warm” settings so your second cup of the day doesn’t go cold in the pot while you’re drinking your first. Many also use cost-effective, reusable filters.
How to choose the best coffee machine
Choosing the best coffee machine for you isn’t just about finding the one that makes the tastiest espresso (although that’s essential). You also want one that’s easy to use and will slot seamlessly into your kitchen. Here are the key factors to consider before buying.
Type of coffee machine
As outlined above, there are many types of coffee machine, and all will suit different needs. Think about how often you’ll be using yours, what coffee order you’ll be making most and how many people you’ll be serving.
Space
Bean-to-cup machines are often the largest models as they have bigger water tanks and steam wands for frothing milk. If you’re looking for something more compact, a pod coffee machine is your best bet.
Automatic cleaning programmes
With so many different parts and dirt traps, cleaning a coffee machine can be a bit of a faff. So, it’s important to look for an automatic cleaning programme when you’re buying a coffee machine. These handy preset programmes automatically flush out the entire system, with some taking just six minutes and others needing more than 20.
Price
Some coffee machines can be a hefty investment. Ranging from £90 up to nearly £2,000, prices vary massively depending on the type, functionality and extra accessories included. It all comes down to personal preference and what features are most important to you. However, even the most affordable coffee machine can deliver a barista-level moment of bliss.
Features and accessories
Check for features like a built-in grinder and steam wand, or automatic controls if you’re not confident with prepping your own milk. Accessories like a tamper are essential for bean-to-cup and espresso machines (to compact the ground coffee into a puck), while some pod machines will be sold alongside a starter pack of capsules for you to try.
Smart technology
Some of the most premium machines have smart features that can identify and correct the settings if their espresso shots are off the ideal weight by a few grams, ensuring precision and great flavour every time. Automatic milk frothing is a more common, but useful, feature to look out for. These machines can steam your milk based on the drink you select, ensuring the best texture without you needing to lift a finger.
Capacity
If you don’t want to have to refill the water tank after every cup, check the capacity of the coffee machine you want before buying. Bean-to-cup machines generally have the largest, but any tank over one litre should be enough to deliver four coffees.
How long should a coffee machine last?
As with all appliances, how long your coffee machine lasts will depend on whether you follow the proper care and maintenance guidance (yes, we know it's a chore, but you do have to descale your coffee machine).
On average, your machine should last five years but could potentially be with you a lot longer. Some will also come with guarantees for certain parts so make sure to check out what’s included when purchasing.
Megan is the Good Housekeeping Institute’s senior homes and lifestyle writer. She loves diving into the latest product releases to find the very best buys on the market and has written hundreds of product reviews on everything from the best vacuum cleaners and coffee machines to the best ice cream makers and robot window cleaners.
When she’s not writing about the newest gadgets and gizmos for your home and garden, you’ll find her running every distance from 5km to 100km or relaxing at home with her cat – there really is no in between.
Megan has an MA in Magazine Journalism and has previously written for Stylist, Glamour, Women's Health, TimeOut, SquareMeal, and YOU magazine. You can find Megan on Instagram @meganlouisegeall.
