What type of coffee makers to choose - how to do it correctly

Drip coffee makers

These models are the simplest of those on the market today. The principle of their operation is quite simple. You pour water into a special compartment in which it heats up and then condenses. Hot drops fall on the poured coffee and pass through it, falling straight into your cup.

To prepare one small cup of medium-strong coffee, you will need to add 3 teaspoons of powder.

In order to choose such a coffee maker, you must consider the following parameters:

1. The presence of a plastic or glass vessel. Models with plastic jugs are cheaper, but glass does not give the drink an unpleasant aftertaste.
2. Filter material. There are paper, metal and nylon options. There is no need to change the metal one, however, it gives the drink an unpleasant aftertaste and leaves coffee residue. Paper and completely disposable. The nylon filter has a capacity of 60 cups.
3. Water filter. This feature is only important if you are using tap water.
4. The importance of power for a coffee machine is greatly exaggerated. Only the speed of preparation of the drink depends on it.
5. The presence of a drop control system, which allows you to stop the machine at any time.
6. Volume. It all depends on how many people in your family will use it.
7. The presence or absence of additional functions.

Criteria for choosing a coffee maker for your home

The choice of coffee maker is influenced by many criteria. You need to take into account the amount of coffee consumed, types of drinks, frequency of use of the device, brewing speed, ease of care, the need for functions for foam and cappuccino, and your own financial capabilities.

Number of people in the house

A drip coffee maker is suitable for those families where 4-5 people regularly drink coffee. It is capable of preparing a large volume of drink in one brew. For families of 2-3 people, it is better to purchase a small coffee maker that will fit compactly in the kitchen. On the forums it is recommended to choose a coffee maker for your home with a water boiler with a volume of 0.5-0.7 liters.

Principle of care

The service life and quality are determined by proper care and washing of the coffee maker. Therefore, you should choose an electrical appliance that is easy to use. For people who are trying to minimize time costs, it is better to opt for such options as a cezve, a French press. If caring for the device is not a problem, then it would be useful to take a closer look at other types of electrical appliances.

Easy coffee brewing

The easiest option for brewing natural coffee is in the pod and capsule model of the machine. All you need to do is load a filter bag or capsule of your favorite drink into the compartment. These types of coffee makers are not cheap, and you can brew capsules from the same manufacturer as the device. This is sometimes problematic. Electric Turks and drip coffee makers are considered cheaper and simpler ways to brew coffee - with a minimum of effort and extra costs.

Cooking time

The speed of brewing coffee varies significantly between different types of coffee makers:

• Turk - 7 minutes;
• geyser (coffee pot) – 6 min;
• geyser electric – 3 mn;
• electric Turk – 3 min;
• drip – 1.5 min;
• French press – 6 min;
• capsule – 50-60 sec;
• carob – 30 sec.

Based on the amount of time you have in the morning, you can choose the appropriate type of coffee machine with the most convenient and fast process for brewing the drink.

Taste preferences

The richness and aroma of finished natural coffee depend on the grinding of the beans and their quality. But the brewing method also affects the final product. If hot water passes through the coffee container too quickly, it will not have time to absorb the flavor, and the aromatic substances will not have time to transfer into the liquid. The end result will be an uninteresting drink.

Quality and ease of assembly of the electrical appliance

The simplest design is for cezves and geyser devices. Other subtypes of coffee makers are more complex, but branded companies use safe and proven materials to assemble them. However, when choosing a coffee machine, it is better to make sure once again that the model is equipped with a non-slip base, a strong body, and does not allow water or steam to pass through.

Price policy

Of the models considered for making natural coffee, Turk is the cheapest. You can choose copper or ceramic. It is perfect for brewing coffee on a gas stove. Many users note in reviews that the drink prepared with its help is of good quality and taste, but the brewing process itself needs constant monitoring. Therefore, it is more convenient to prepare coffee in an electric coffee maker. The device is more expensive, but saves time.

Installation method

Another point when choosing a coffee machine is the place where the coffee maker will stand. They are built-in and desktop. The built-in device is a large unit mounted in a niche in the kitchen, while the desktop coffee maker is mobile and can be placed either on the balcony or in the kitchen.

Carob coffee makers

The operating principle of a carob coffee maker is based on steam pressure. The following types exist:

• steam-based coffee makers;
• pump models.

This coffee machine is designed for only a few cups, but it doesn’t take much time to prepare them.

If you decide to buy such a device for your home, then you need to know the following.

1. The horns for the device are made of metal or plastic. It is best to choose the first option, since the taste of coffee from it is noticeably better.
2. Not only the speed of preparing the drink, but also its strength depends on the level of pressure in your machine.
3. But power only affects speed, so this is not the most important indicator.
4. How many cups you can prepare at a time depends on the volume.
5. There is a function for whipping foam. It is necessary for those who prefer to drink cappuccino.
6. The presence or absence of the possibility of using a pod.
7. Additional gadgets that depend only on your wishes.

Pods are a disposable bag of coffee that is in a special package. Its main advantage is that after use you do not have to wash the machine to remove coffee powder.

Delonghi EC 156.B

The small, ergonomic Delonghi EC 156.B coffee maker is an excellent choice for lovers of rich espresso with delicate Crema foam. The equipment body is made of durable heat-resistant plastic with metal inserts. The set includes 2 filters: for one and two servings of drink.

You can brew coffee using ground beans or tablet powder. A stable airy foam, which is an excellent decoration for a macchiato or latte, is made by a manual cappuccino maker.

The coffee maker is controlled by one switch located on the front panel. A special indicator signals the readiness mode.

The “advantages” of the model are:

• Easy to care for. The holder, tray and water tank are easily removed and can be easily cleaned under running water. And the body can be easily wiped with a damp cloth for office equipment.
• Steam supply regulator. This lever is installed on top of the body and is responsible for high-quality whipping of foam. The feed intensity is set independently.

The coffee maker is equipped with a self-shut-off function 30 minutes after use.

It is not possible to program the coffee temperature and volume on this equipment. The technology does not have such capabilities.

Coffee pod makers

This is an expensive device, but it is also fully automatic. All you have to do is place the capsule in the machine and press start. There are two types of capsule machines.

1. Devices designed for preparing several types of drinks.
2. Machines that can prepare dozens of different types of coffee.

When choosing a capsule machine, it is important to consider whether you are purchasing it for your home or an office machine. The type, volume, and cost of the device will depend on this.

When purchasing a capsule-type coffee maker, it is important to consider the following characteristics:

1. By choosing between a plastic or metal model, you choose the lifespan of your machine.
2. Not only the speed of operation of the equipment, but also the taste of the resulting product depends on the power declared in the passport. After all, it is known that the less coffee is brewed, the tastier the drink turns out.
3. You should not choose models that indicate low pump pressure. This will negatively affect the taste.
4. With capsule machines, it is important to consider the noise level produced.
5. Coffee maker volume.

Read more: how to choose a capsule coffee maker for your home.

Electrolux EKF7800

The first drip model in the list of the best coffee makers is called Electrolux EKF7800. This budget option will be a good alternative to more expensive espresso coffee makers.

The 1.6 liter capacity tank holds up to 15 cups of finished coffee. Only ground grains can be used for cooking.

The coffee maker is controlled through a small panel, where all operating stages are shown on the touch screen. The coffee strength can be adjusted. For this purpose, the equipment is equipped with a special AromaStrength program.

The main advantages of this specimen include:

• delayed start, the time of which can be programmed 24 hours in advance;
• convenient control over coffee preparation using the display;
• auto-heating of the flask keeps the drink warm;
• the ability to prepare a large amount of coffee at one time;
• Anti-drip mode, which retains residual liquid in the spout.

Geyser coffee makers

The name of the device reflects the entire process of its operation. When water boils, it produces steam that passes through the coffee mass.

Read more about the operating principle of a geyser coffee maker.

Existing types of geyser coffee makers are divided into:

1. Those that work from the network.
2. For manual ones, which must be used on the stove.

Today, most of the population prefers to use electrical appliances, but there are also connoisseurs who like not only the taste of the drink, but also the process of its preparation.

When choosing a geyser-type coffee machine, you should consider the following criteria:

1. Volume calculated from how many people will use the machine.
2. The power of the device, which is proportional to its volume.
3. The quality of a machine, which is influenced by the material from which it is made.
4. Additional functionality.

How to disassemble the device

And just a piece of advice: do not disassemble the coffee machine yourself if you do not understand its mechanisms. If the device breaks down, it is better to entrust the repair to a professional. You will have to pay for this, but this way you will avoid complete breakdown of the equipment. But if you are sure that you can fix it yourself, check out the guide on how to disassemble the coffee machine:

• Unscrew the screws on the back wall of the coffee machine with a screwdriver.
• Remove the cover.
• Start cleaning or repairing.

Some models may have hidden locks. They are plastic latches and can be removed from the outside with a regular knife. Typically, hidden locks are located at the bottom of the back cover.

Electric Turks

This device is designed specifically for those who like the taste of Turkish coffee, but are unable to prepare it. There are various fancy types of coffee makers, but this model is best suited for home use.

By and large, the device works on the principle of an electric kettle. Only in this case, a Turk is installed on the heating element, and not a container of water.

When choosing an electric Turk, pay attention to the following characteristics:

1. The optimal power of the device should be in the range of 700 – 800 Watt.
2. Automatic shut-off function that saves you from standing over the device.
3. The material from which the heating element is made. It is better to choose stainless steel.

Delonghi ECOV311BG

The TOP of coffee makers for home is completed by the original model Delonghi ECOV311BG. The equipment body is made in a pleasant soft beige color, the control is push-button.

The functionality of the equipment includes everything you need: cup warming, a manual light cappuccino maker, an anti-drip system. Two separate thermostats are responsible for regulating steam and water temperature. The completely transparent flask holds 1.4 liters of liquid. This is the maximum figure in the line of carob coffee makers.

This model prepares an invigorating drink only from ground grains. The use of pods is not provided here.

Advantages of technology:

• Automatic shutdown. The function allows you to independently program the equipment to turn off after 9, 30 minutes or 3 hours.
• Reliable design. A durable stainless steel boiler and other metal parts guarantee a long service life of the coffee maker.

The stand simultaneously holds two cups in which you can make coffee and tea. For the last drink, the appliance will simply supply hot water.

The equipment lacks a filter to purify the water and a system that regulates the strength of the coffee. Perhaps these are its most significant shortcomings.

Combined models

Combination coffee machines are a combination of several types in one. Finding such a device at home is very rare. But in a cafe or bar they are used very often. If you decide to purchase such a coffee monster for your home, then pay attention to the following parameters when purchasing:

1. It is important to choose powerful machines, this affects both the speed of preparing the drink and its taste.
2. For many types of coffee, it is important to choose the right steam pressure.
3. You need to know that coffee is prepared at a temperature of about 95 degrees, so check this point when purchasing.
4. Built-in coffee grinder.
5. Container volume.
6. Function for making cappuccino.

What is the difference between a coffee maker and a coffee machine?

Coffee makers and coffee machines are fundamentally different devices, although many use these terms interchangeably.

• A coffee maker is a semi-automatic device. To make coffee, you either need to grind your own coffee beans, or buy pre-ground ones and only then use a coffee maker.
• The coffee machine is a fully automated device. All you have to do is buy coffee beans and pour them into the coffee machine. At the end you will receive a ready-made, freshly brewed drink.

They say that coffee from a coffee machine has a more sensual aroma and subtle taste, but in reality, everything is not for everyone. A coffee machine will cost you a little more, and it will take up more space, but only you can decide which equipment you will prefer.

How to choose a coffee maker for home use

When buying a coffee maker for your home, you need to compare a number of models according to the following criteria.

1. Specializing in a specific drink. If everyone in the family prefers a certain type of coffee, then you need to choose the appropriate equipment for it. For example, a drip-type device cannot brew tasty, strong enough espresso. And vice versa, if strong coffee is not held in high esteem, and Americano is most often brewed, it is not worth paying extra for a capsule-type machine.
2. Device power. It determines not only the speed with which the coffee maker will prepare a cup of coffee, but also its efficiency. The more powerful the device, the more electricity it “eats”. It is worth choosing the optimal amount of power: sufficient for your needs, but no more, so as not to be shocked by the electricity bills later. An indicator of 2 kW, even a little less, is enough for home use.
3. Water tank volume. This value determines how many servings of a drink the coffee machine can prepare at one time. You need to choose a tank that is enough for one appointment. For example, if only two people in a family drink coffee in the morning, then a 500 ml tank will be enough. Here, too, you need to approach the choice carefully: choose the required capacity, but remember that the larger it is, the more bulky the device itself, and the more energy is spent on its operation.
4. Brand. A coffee maker is one case where the manufacturer matters. The leaders in this area are Maxwell, Bialetti, Bosch, Vitek, Delonghi and Nespresso. Coffee makers are now produced by everyone who is not too lazy. Private brands produce coffee makers of average quality, the drink they produce is not the most delicious. And such a device will not last long.

Depending on what your favorite drink is, take a closer look at the devices in this order:

1. Carob coffee makers work best with espresso;
2. An excellent cappuccino can be brewed by a carob or combination coffee machine;
3. for Americano it is better to purchase a drip device;
4. those who love variety and choose high quality should take a closer look at capsule devices;
5. strong classic coffee will be delicious in a steam coffee maker.

Important: for coffee gourmets who prefer a classic strong drink with a spicy bitterness, a coffee machine with a power of up to 0.8 kW is better suited.

Philips HD 7459/20

Another drip technique is Philips HD 7459/20. Its transparent reservoir holds 1.2 liters of liquid, and its comfortable handle makes it easy to hold even a full bowl. The equipment works without pressure and only with pre-ground coffee.

The model is equipped with technology to turn off the power two hours after finishing work. A small display at the bottom of the stand will help you control the process and readiness of the drink. In addition, the equipment has a water level indicator that regulates the amount of water for each serving of coffee.

All parts of the coffee maker are removable, including the filter holder. They can be washed under running water or in the dishwasher. Reassembling the equipment after cleaning for further work is also not difficult.

The main qualities of this model are:

• small sizes make it easier to store equipment;
• a coffee pot made of tempered glass is many times more environmentally friendly than plastic;
• drop retention technology after pouring coffee will prevent excessive contamination of the tray;
• It is possible to prepare 10-15 cups of drink in one click.

Of course, there can be no talk of any foam for cappuccino with such a coffee maker, as well as, in principle, of this type of coffee. This model, like previous drip models, prepares only a regular black drink.

Drip or carob

Drip coffee makers are practical, have good performance, and are easy to operate. Special filters are used for this work. They are filled with ground coffee, after which hot water flows through them. The finished drink - Americano - is collected in a special coffee pot. The models are presented in a wide range, they are reliable and affordable.

In carob models, instead of a filter, a cone is used that is filled with ground coffee. The water heats up and steam under pressure passes through the powder. The result is the strongest possible espresso, which retains the most nutrients. With plenty of water and the addition of milk you can make cappuccino, lungo and latte.

Heating element - thermoblock or boiler

Coffee makers can use different types of heating compartments - boilers and thermoblocks. They differ in both the heating principle and operating parameters. It can be difficult for the average buyer to understand what is better in a coffee maker - a boiler or a thermoblock.

A thermoblock is a heater that takes small portions of water from the coffee maker’s tank to heat as needed. Its design consists of a pair of welded blocks, inside one of which there is a labyrinth of flow channels, and inside the second there are electric heating elements. Thanks to this system, the required portion of water is heated almost instantly, after which it enters the compartment with coffee for subsequent brewing of the drink.

The advantage of such heaters is that the water boils quickly and the drink is prepared. For home use, a thermoblock can be considered an ideal option.

A boiler is a single-chamber structure that provides for the location of a heating element inside a water container. The entire volume of water is heated, after which the temperature can be maintained. To reach the desired temperature, a boiler requires a longer time than a thermoblock, but its final performance is much higher. Such models are more practical to use in offices, cafes or in large families where you need to prepare several cups of coffee at once, so which coffee maker to buy for your home depends on the number of servings needed.

Rating of the best coffee maker manufacturers

On the household appliances market you can see a large number of devices of various designs in a wide price range.

The most popular manufacturers are:

• De'Longhi;
• Bosch;
• Philips;
• Krups;
• Panasonic and many others.

As an example, let’s consider models of drip, geyser, carob and capsule devices in each price category.

Drip

Geysernaya

Carob (holder)

Important: Among horn and capsule devices, there are no budget models due to the particular complexity of their design.

Capsule

Which is better – an automatic or a combination coffee maker?

A fully automatic device will cost more. If you want to buy an expensive coffee machine, it will cost approximately $800 or more. In order not to overpay for coffee in capsules or pods, it is better to take a regular carob model with a coffee grinder, buy any varieties and experiment with additives.

Video: Drip, capsule or espresso? Understanding coffee makers

Mid-range automatic models will cost $500 and up. They have less functionality, but they are most often purchased for home use. Cappuccino and other drinks with added milk are prepared by hand.

For business, multifunctional models are usually chosen, sometimes with touch controls and automatic memory settings - strength, temperature, amount of coffee and water. Such a coffee machine requires a detailed study of how this or that function works.

Operating principle and structure of coffee makers

The basic operating principle of coffee makers is as follows: water first boils, after which it passes through already ground coffee beans, brewing them and imparting taste and aroma to the finished drink.

Common design elements for all coffee makers:

• water tank;
• coffee horn/filter/strainer;
• a heating element;
• power button/control panel.

However, there are a number of fundamental differences in operating principle and design between different types of coffee makers. We will look at them in more detail below.