Which is the best coffee maker for your home: tips and user reviews. Types of coffee makers Types of coffee makers and their characteristics
People believe that coffee is brewed slowly, in a cezve. The rest is a surrogate. According to tradition, a vessel with a teaspoon of ground coffee, sugar and water is placed on the sand - the drink begins to prepare. A fragrant chocolate-colored seduction native to Africa (Ethiopia). In the country, shepherds were the first to use Datura: they needed strength to drive their flock for days. After chewing the grains, the shepherds were filled with strength, ready to keep vigil around the clock. Then they decided to make coffee. First, the grated meat was mixed with animal fat. No one knows for sure the source of the custom of using a cezve. Let's talk about coffee makers.
Types of Coffee Makers to Choose From
Each is characterized by disadvantages and advantages.
Capsule coffee makers: charging capsules
Capsules are expensive. But recently manufacturers have released reusable containers - costing 200 rubles. Empty, no coffee! You need to fill the vessel yourself: with a coffee spoon in your hand, a kitchen scale under your nose. Otherwise, you will calculate the dose incorrectly and you will confuse it.
Experts say: the amount of powder affects the result, but the degree of grinding of the beans depends on the type of coffee maker. Several systems for brewing coffee from capsules have been invented. Designed for a fixed temperature, duration of exposure, unique pressure, variety of Arabica, Rogusta, amount of drink. There are many subtleties: you need to study the issue persistently before filling one capsule.
It is recommended to open one capsule, evaluate the size by eye, take a photo of the powder in bulk, and weigh it. The variety is indicated on the label. Some capsule brewing systems include inscriptions regarding temperature, pressure, and other parameters. You can already try to make it yourself by purchasing a suitable filler in the store.
Then we grind the grains to the desired size: there are a dime a dozen equipment in the store. The difference between mechanical and electric coffee grinders has been discussed. Possibilities, advantages, and disadvantages were indicated.
In order not to buy expensive, albeit reusable, capsules, it is recommended to assemble one from two. Used ones will do: they have holes in them. The technique is simple:
- the bottom of the capsule used is cut off;
- the second capsule, on the contrary, has a lid cut out;
- The two resulting halves are relatively easy to connect.
It turns out to be a reusable capsule, made independently: you can continuously refill it. Is it dangerous for the coffee maker? We do not recommend doing this in models with automatic waste disposal. It’s difficult to say what will happen when the capsule opens during the process.
Capsule coffee makers are not as expensive to operate as you might think. You can win big on the price. Coffee machines with semi-automatic preparation of cappuccino from capsules cost pennies. If you set up the conversion of used containers at home, things will go smoothly.
The first time you will have to buy capsules for the coffee maker. Pay attention to the cost. Capsule coffee machines are cheap: expenses are expected to supply the equipment with raw materials.
Drip and carob coffee makers
The two types of coffee makers are similar in appearance, but there are few similarities inside. The difference is not indicated in the reviews, we draw attention to:
The fundamental difference is the presence of a boiler. Carobs always have a tank: it creates sufficient steam pressure. The tension inside is colossal. The boiler is capable of developing pressure 4–5 times higher than the test pressure for the autumn start-up of the heating system. Carob coffee makers are often equipped with a cappuccino maker. Let's direct the steam in a different direction - into the tube.
The mode for manual preparation of cappuccino and latte is possible: it brings special pleasure to coffee connoisseurs. A coffee machine differs from a coffee maker in the highest degree of automation of the drink:
- Automatic grinding of grains with adjustable powder size.
- Dosing the amount of water, milk, foaming if necessary.
Cappuccino or latte are prepared easily, up to the complete automation of the process. But let's get back to coffee makers. Should I take drip or carob? The last option is more expensive, but better. But difficulties await the user of a carob coffee maker:
Regarding the cleaning cycle: a lot of deposits accumulate in the boiler. It is necessary to use clean water, or periodically carry out preventive maintenance. Some coffee machines have a special self-cleaning cycle, but coffee makers do not. The algorithm of actions when scale is detected is indicated in the instructions. There you will also find a detailed tour on choosing and analyzing the suitability of water. In drip coffee makers, part of the problem is neutralized. There is a flow-through heater inside: the problem of scale is not relevant. Cleaning will be easy. Use a special tool for this purpose, which is attached to drip coffee makers. Flaws:
- Coffee is poured into the filter. They are disposable - less fuss, more to pay. And reusable: roll up your sleeves when preparing the accessory for subsequent use in the coffee maker. In terms of operation, carob ones are more profitable. Paper filters for a drip coffee maker will become a separate expense item.
- Difficult to dose. In the previous case, the horn served as the measure. Here we make do with a spoon and a scale for filling the drip coffee maker.
Carob coffee makers prepare to produce coffee within 3-5 minutes. Heat the boiler properly. In drips, the temperatures are not high: the process goes a little faster. Professional opinion: buy a carob-type coffee maker. Not very convenient, but the quality is excellent.
Geyser coffee makers
Previous models ran on electricity, but this one is placed on the hob. Unlike cezve, coffee does not run away. But leaving the device unattended is unsafe. There is no automation - just a piece of tin.
A geyser coffee maker consists of two chambers – lower and upper. Reminds me of an hourglass. Difference: the central narrow channel begins at the bottom and ends under the lid. A compartment is molded in the middle part: it is stored in a strainer or other coffee filter. The water level in the lower compartment reaches a boil - the liquid rushes upward through the capillary. Coffee is brewed along the way. The actually finished drink is poured into the upper chamber.
It foams and no longer tries to escape. True lovers say: the dense foam contains the lion's share of taste. Coffee won't be the same without it. How many designs of coffee makers were described - we returned to the beginning. You are supposed to throw coffee (without sugar) into a tin vessel, pour in water, and wait on the sand until it is ready. Shooting when the drink tries to escape is a quick process, like milk in time. Before you have time to look back, the most delicious things will remain on the sand.
A true gourmet will not buy an espresso coffee maker - he will take a copper Turk or something like that. By the way: the Italian drink is stronger than the Americano, despised by the descendants of Caesar. American soldiers thought espresso was too strong. I had to dilute it. Not everyone knows the nuances - a smart coffee machine knows. It contains programs for preparing various drinks. For more details on preparation, see the product card. When purchasing a coffee maker, read the instructions.
Don't forget about cleaning. Sometimes it’s smarter than expensive equipment to buy a Bialetti geyser coffee maker so as not to worry about scale.
Greetings, dear readers!
Life is hard for true coffee lovers. It takes a lot of time to prepare an aromatic drink at home in Turkey, and money to buy ready-made drinks in specialized establishments. It’s difficult to even call instant powder coffee, so we won’t even mention it.
It’s so good that they came up with a miracle technique that turns grains into an invigorating elixir in a matter of minutes. And all this with minimal human participation. The name of this invention is a coffee machine.
You will have to spend a lot on such a device, so before purchasing it is worth understanding in detail how to choose a coffee machine for your home, so as not to regret it later.
A coffee machine is a new word in home coffee preparation. These devices were designed for cafes and restaurants, but due to the convenience and good quality of the final product, there were people who wanted to buy such a device for home.
Manufacturers responded to the desire of the consumer and began to produce household coffee machines: they are smaller in size and more affordable than industrial ones. They are marketed as automatic coffee machines.
So what is the secret of such units? Everything is extremely simple: they prepare coffee of the highest quality and do not require any special knowledge or special effort from a person. Simply add water and add grains. And then we select the desired drink on the control panel and the equipment will do everything itself.
But this is only if you don’t want to understand the recipe and you are satisfied with the result. If you wish, you can experiment: change the temperature, strength, volume of finished coffee, reduce or increase the amount of milk. In addition, the devices cause minimal hassle, since they also clean themselves.
It is impossible not to mention the intermediate link in the chain of progress “Turk - coffee machine” - coffee makers. They have varying degrees of automation, but still require more participation during brewing. The main difference between coffee makers and coffee machines is the lack of a built-in coffee grinder. You will have to purchase it separately or buy already ground coffee, not beans.
Carob and capsule coffee makers are the closest to coffee machines. The first brews a drink from ground coffee, requiring virtually no participation. With a capsule one, everything is even simpler - special capsules with crushed beans are loaded into the device, and it will quickly prepare aromatic coffee.
No technique can save you if coffee is made from low-quality raw materials. The choice of coffee for a coffee machine should be treated with special care. It is the grain that determines what kind of drink you get in the end.
Criterias of choice
So, you have definitely decided that you need a coffee machine. Now you need to figure out how they differ from each other and what characteristics a good device should have.
Millstone
Millstones are designed for grinding coffee beans and come in two types:
- Steel
Durable, they are not afraid of foreign objects, such as stones. However, they get very hot and can impart a “burnt” taste. Although manufacturers are trying to solve this problem and install an electric drive on their devices.
And to be honest, only true gourmets are able to “catch” the shade, and most people do not feel the difference. A significant disadvantage is the high noise level during operation.
- Ceramic
They do not burn the grains, preserving their taste and aroma as much as possible, and they work much quieter than their counterparts. But they are quite fragile: if any hard foreign object comes across, the millstones will most likely crack and the machine will need to be sent for repairs.
Water heater
A thermoblock or a boiler can act as a water heater in a coffee machine, but which is better? For your home, it’s definitely better to take a thermoblock, and now we’ll figure out why.
- Boiler
It is a container located inside the housing that contains hot water. As soon as you have prepared a portion of coffee and the liquid level has become less, the machine immediately replenishes it to full. And again heats the entire volume.
This is not the best solution, because due to constant heating the taste of the water deteriorates, scale appears faster, which means there is a need for cleaning. This heating system is suitable for industrial use where high performance of the device is required.
- Thermoblock
For brewing, freshly collected water is used and only the portion that is needed at the moment. The rest of the water is drained into a separate tank and stored there.
The drink tastes better and energy costs are lower. And the thermoblock heats boiling water for one dose faster. In the previous version, you will have to wait until the entire volume heats up, only after that the machine will start preparing the next cup.
Power and performance
The higher the power, the faster the device will make coffee. At the same time, as the power indicator increases, the strength of the drink decreases. This is due to the fact that during processing in high-power machines, the brewing speed is very high and the water simply does not have time to absorb all the taste and aroma of the grain.
Decide what is more important: speed or taste. In general, there are devices with power from 800 to 2,500 watts. Average values are considered optimal for a home - 1,000 - 1,500 W.
You should pay attention to performance if you have a large family of coffee lovers or if you are purchasing a device for the office. For an ordinary family, where several people drink coffee a couple of times a day, a minimum capacity of up to 30 cups is sufficient.
Brewing mechanism cleaning system
The brewing mechanism is the heart of any coffee machine. This is where the magic of transferring the properties of coffee beans happens. There is a removable and fixed brewing mechanism.
- Removable
The structure must be periodically removed and manually washed under the tap, dried and put back in place. But the difficulty arises with cleaning the hydraulic system tubes - it is impossible to remove them. A coffee residue remains inside, which accumulates over time and gives the drink an unpleasant aftertaste. In addition, it is simply unhygienic, due to the multiplying bacteria.
A special product in the form of tablets is designed to solve the problem, which allows you to effectively wash the internal surfaces of the hoses.
- Pinned
In this design, it will not be possible to remove the brewing part. But maybe it’s for the better - the machine determines the level of contamination and cleans the internal parts itself. After a certain number of cups of coffee have been brewed, the device gives a signal, saying, “it’s time to wash yourself.” The user just has to load the tablet and activate the cleaning function, and the equipment will do everything on its own. Very convenient, but more expensive.
Availability of a cappuccino maker
This option will definitely be needed for those who love varieties such as cappuccino and latte. If the device is not equipped with a cappuccino maker, then it will only be able to make dairy-free varieties of coffee.
The cappuccino machine creates that very airy milk foam that many people adore. It happens:
- Auto
You are required to pour the milk into a special container or immerse the tube in a jar of liquid (depending on the design). The skilled technician will do the rest itself. In some advanced models, it is even possible to select the degree of airiness of the foam and its height. The presence of an automatic cappuccino maker significantly increases the cost.
- Manual
Steam is supplied from the tube under pressure. You need to place a bowl of milk under this stream and use circular movements to catch the boundary between the foam and the liquid. In this case, the container should be moved up and down. To make work easier, there are devices with a Panarello attachment. But in any case, you will have to adapt.
If you rarely drink cappuccino, then you can get by with a model with a manual cappuccino maker. But if you are a fan of milk foam, then you should take a closer look at automatic units, otherwise it will take a lot of time to prepare coffee.
Functionality
Now let's figure out how coffee machines differ from each other in terms of functions.
- Grinding degree – varies from 3 to 12.
- Temperature – the liquid can be scalding, hot or just warm, your choice.
- Drink strength – you control how rich the product should be.
- The volume of the serving - whether it will be a small cup of the strongest espresso or a large mug of delicate latte, depends on the settings.
- Two cups – some models can prepare 2 servings at once.
- Heating cups - according to the rules, coffee is poured into heated dishes, so the tray of the unit preheats it.
- Filter – if ordinary tap water is poured in, then to obtain a high-quality product, it simply needs to be pre-cleaned.
- Descaling – Limescale deposits are automatically removed, which significantly prolongs the life of the device.
- A second boiler to speed up the process of frothing milk - for very busy people who have no time to wait for the device to change from hot water to steam and back.
- Internal memory - if everyone in your family likes different coffee, so as not to reconfigure the device every time, you save in it all the necessary parameters for each coffee lover once. Then it’s easy to activate the desired mode - just select your name from the list.
Of course, the most expensive models have the widest range of options. Simple coffee machines are equipped with a couple of variations of the presented functions. And this is not bad, because it allows you to save significantly on your purchase.
Professionals advise not to be tempted by a large number of additional parameters. As practice and reviews from owners show, in reality all this is not used at home, but a couple of favorite settings are selected.
Rating of manufacturers and where to buy them
Among coffee machine manufacturers, there are several large companies that occupy leading positions and firmly hold their place in the market. The ranking of 10 manufacturers in alphabetical order will look like this:
- Bork.
- Bosch.
- De Longhi.
- Jura.
- Kambrook.
- Krups.
- Melitta.
- Philips.
- Saeco.
- Siemens.
All these companies guarantee high quality products and provide a full range of warranty services for their products. Moreover, if one of the parts breaks down, it is much easier to find a similar one for a device from a well-known brand than for a “nameless” brother. This provides them with leading positions in all the TOPs of the best coffee machines.
Of course, it makes sense to purchase equipment only at large retail outlets. This way you will protect yourself from counterfeiting and in the event of a breakdown or defect, the device will be exchanged or repaired without any hassle. The most popular online sellers are the following store sites:
- Top-Shop
- Ulmart
On any of these sites you can order the model you like and the desired product will be delivered to you in a short time, even if it is not available in the seller’s regular store.
Examples of models and their prices
Buying a coffee machine is an expensive proposition. Therefore, before you decide on it, think about whether you really need it? Or is it better to get by with a more budget-friendly coffee maker? Weigh the pros and cons.
If you are unshakable in your decision, then it’s time to make a rating of devices from different price segments that enjoy the trust of buyers in 2018.
- Budget models start from 20 thousand rubles.
– an inexpensive device with good data. It has a boiler, ceramic millstones, 5 grinding levels and a manual cappuccino maker. It is possible to prepare three drinks: espresso, cappuccino and lungo. Small dimensions will allow you to place it even in a small kitchen.
Nice price - 20 thousand rubles.
- The cost of equipment with an automatic cappuccino maker starts at 35 thousand rubles.
– a compact device from France. Can prepare 6 types of coffee, including with milk. Equipped with a stainless steel coffee grinder and various indicators characterizing the status of the device. It is very easy to care for: it is equipped with a self-cleaning system using a tablet. Moreover, a signal will be sent that it is time to wash, i.e. the owner will not have to monitor this.
The assistant will cost 36 thousand rubles.
- Advanced devices with expanded functionality will cost from 60 thousand rubles.
– prepares one cup in just 13 seconds! Ideal for true connoisseurs: 13 grinding levels, 7 programs, professional preparation of cappuccino, latte and latte macchiato, strength adjustment.
The built-in memory for saving a personal recipe deserves special attention. The energy saving mode and self-shut-off system will help you save on electricity bills. Cleaning of the device is fully automated.
Cost – 70 thousand rubles.
Results
In order to choose a suitable coffee machine, you need to first decide what you want from it. What kind of coffee and in what quantity should she be able to prepare? Are you willing to hand wash the internal parts? Do you really need several degrees of grinding, a heated cup and a second boiler?
Having answered these questions, it will be easier for you to navigate among the wide range, choose “the one” and at the same time not spend money on unnecessary functions.
Tell me, would you like to buy a coffee machine? Or maybe you already have it? Then share your experience of selection and use.
True coffee fans know that an invigorating drink must be prepared under special conditions using special equipment. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to visit a coffee shop, so an alternative is to buy a coffee maker for home use.
What types of coffee makers are there, their pros and cons
The classification of coffee makers is carried out in accordance with the principle of their operation. The taste and aroma of coffee depends on the specific preparation. To ensure that the coffee machine meets your expectations, familiarize yourself with the main advantages and disadvantages of each type.
Drip
One of the most popular coffee makers. The principle of operation is that boiled water is passed through a compartment with ground coffee, and from there it flows drop by drop into a coffee pot or cup.
A drip coffee maker is perfect for a large family or office.
Carob
Many coffee connoisseurs can confidently say that a truly delicious drink can be prepared in a carob coffee maker. The basis of the work is that water is poured under pressure through a formed coffee tablet placed in a special horn (holder). Passing through ground coffee, the water is saturated with maximum taste and aroma, and at the end you get a high-quality strong drink.
The assortment includes two types of carob-type coffee makers: steam and pump. In the first case, the water in the device is heated and passed through the tablet in the form of steam, and in the second - just water heated to 95 degrees.
Geyser
One of the most affordable devices for brewing coffee. Geyser coffee makers look like a coffee pot and consist of three parts: a reservoir for boiling water, a compartment for ground coffee and a container for the finished drink. The principle of operation is that water vapor passes from the lower container through the coffee into the upper reservoir. Along the way, the clouds of steam absorb the aroma of the coffee, and you end up with an invigorating drink.
A geyser coffee maker is worth buying if your family has different tastes for hot drinks, as you can make both coffee and tea.
Capsule
A machine like this will save you from preparing coffee tablets. All you have to do is load the capsule into the device and press the power button. In a few minutes you will receive the finished drink.
If you don’t have time to brew coffee and clean the machine parts, a capsule coffee maker is a great option.
Combined
They combine the functions of drip and carob coffee makers. Many models are additionally equipped with a built-in coffee grinder.
By purchasing a combination coffee maker, you will be unlimited in preparing drinks from beans of different grinds, and you will also be able to prepare various types of coffee with the addition of milk or other ingredients.
"French Press"
A simple and convenient coffee maker for home use. Outwardly, it resembles a coffee pot made of thick glass with a metal disk and a piston inside. Does not require connection to electricity. To prepare the drink, you need to add coffee, add hot water and let the drink soak in the aroma for at least 5 minutes. Then you need to lower the piston. As a result, you will get rich coffee, the grounds of which will be pressed by the press.
In addition to coffee, you can use a French press to brew tea or froth milk for cappuccino.
Electric Turks
Using an electric turk you can not only brew coffee, but also simply boil water. The appearance and principle of brewing the drink does not differ from its “manual” counterpart.
Having bought an electric Turk, Turkish coffee lovers can forget about burnt copper Turks and burns on their hands.
Material and design
Basically, all coffee makers are made of metal or plastic. The only exceptions are geyser coffee makers, which can be made of aluminum, steel, ceramics or polymers.
They are practically no different in shape. But there are practically no restrictions in the choice of color and design. You can buy either a classic-looking coffee maker or a device with an ultra-modern design.
Aluminum
Most often in the assortment of geyser coffee makers you can find the aluminum model. The material meets all standards and undergoes mandatory testing for interaction with food.
If you buy an aluminum coffee maker, the first cups of coffee you brew may have a metallic taste. To prevent this, rinse all compartments of the coffee maker thoroughly under running water before use.
Steel
A steel device is considered reliable and durable. Thanks to the thick bottom, the water in such a coffee maker will boil faster, which means the coffee preparation will speed up. The steel appliance can be washed in the dishwasher and heated on an induction hob. The steel coating will ensure the absence of rust on the components and long service life.
Ceramics
Ceramic geyser-type coffee makers can be a great decoration for your kitchen. A definite plus is the internal ceramic coating, which will not affect the taste and aroma of coffee. The device is also easy to care for and wash its components. However, such coffee makers must be used very carefully, since ceramics are very fragile and unstable to mechanical damage.
Polymers
Modern polymer materials have a number of advantages. Geyser coffee makers made of polymers are durable, but at the same time lightweight. They withstand high temperatures and mechanical loads well. High-quality polymer materials do not affect the taste of coffee.
What to look for when choosing a coffee maker
Before buying a coffee maker for home use, analyze which selection criterion is your priority.
Coffee quality
Decide what kind of invigorating drink you want to drink in the morning. If you like espresso or other drinks based on it, give preference to carob or capsule machines. If you want to drink Turkish coffee, pay attention to electric Turks. For fans of Americano, geyser or drip coffee makers are suitable. Those who cannot make a specific choice should pay attention to combined coffee machines.
Design
What is important here is the presence of certain abilities and how much time you are willing to devote to the process of brewing the drink. For example, the design of a carob coffee machine can be intended both for a beginner with a minimum amount of tasks and automatic functions, and for a professional, where he will need to set the grind coarseness, water temperature and other parameters, as well as monitor the work process.
If you are a beginner coffee drinker, give preference to machines with automatic adjustment or capsule machines.
Material and design
All types of coffee makers can be made from several types of materials.
Coffee maker type | Materials |
Capsule | There are metal and plastic. Experience shows that stainless steel machines last longer. |
Drip | You can find glass or plastic models. It is better to give preference to glass, since in a plastic case the coffee may have a plastic taste. |
Carob | The case material does not play a big role and only affects the durability of the device. Here special attention should be paid to the brewing group. Which can be made of stainless steel or plastic. Plastic parts will negatively affect the taste and quality of the drink, so it is better to give preference to a metal device. |
Electric Turks | The best option for an electric Turk is a stainless steel body. |
You will be unlimited in the variety of designs and will be able to choose a coffee maker that suits you in size and appearance in accordance with the interior.
Price
The cost of coffee makers varies depending on the operating principle of the device, manufacturer, body materials and main parts.
Average price range for coffee makers depending on type.
Before you make a purchase, decide how much you want to spend on a coffee maker for your home. You shouldn't take the cheapest model. Most often, such devices are made from low-quality materials, which negatively affects the taste of the drink and the service life of the device.
Manufacturer rating
In the range of household appliances for the kitchen you can find coffee machines of various brands. By choosing a trusted manufacturer, you will be confident in the high-quality and long-lasting operation of the device.
If you want to buy an expensive coffee machine, pay attention to the brands: Guggia, Delonghi, Melitta, Krups, Blazer, Saeco.
From the average, but fairly reliable segment of manufacturers of coffee machines, we can highlight Siemens, Bosch, Electrolux.
The best coffee makers from popular manufacturers
Top 5 best coffee makers:
- Drip - Melitta Optima Glass Timer. The model is equipped with all possible functions, such as: delayed start, auto shut-off, cleaning indicator and water hardness regulator. Control is carried out using buttons and a display on a plastic case. The water tank has a capacity of 1.1 liters, which allows you to prepare from 2 to 8 cups at a time. The disadvantage is the lack of a built-in coffee grinder.
- Automatic horn - Delonghi ECAM 22.360. The body of the model is made of high quality plastic. On the external panel there are control buttons, a brew group and a cappuccino maker. Equipped with maximum functionality. Here you can adjust the hardness, volume and temperature of the water, control the strength of the coffee and prepare drinks with the addition of milk foam in automatic mode. Equipped with a built-in coffee grinder with adjustable grind size, as well as a self-cleaning option.
- Capsule - Krups KP 2201/2205/2208/2209 Dolce Gusto. Attractive design, ease of operation and fast coffee preparation speed attracted everyone's attention to the coffee maker. All you need to do is insert the capsule into a special compartment and press the start button. The machine can prepare 20 types of coffee and other hot or cold drinks in just a few minutes. The kit includes 6 trial capsules.
- Geyser - KitchenAid 5KCM0812EOB. Externally it looks very stylish, thanks to the glass body. Powered by mains power. You can prepare up to 8 cups of coffee at a time, since the tank capacity is 1 liter, which is also equipped with a measuring scale and an ergonomic handle. The kit includes fabric and steel filters, a measuring spoon and a cleaning brush.
- Electric Turk - SINBO SCM-2916. The body is made of stainless steel and equipped with a plastic handle. Control is carried out using the power button, and the device will automatically turn off after cooking. The 0.4 liter capacity is enough to prepare 4 small cups of coffee at a time. The coffee maker is also equipped with a double protection system against overheating and operation without water.
Which coffee maker is suitable for home
When choosing a coffee maker for your home, you should consider the following recommendations:
- First of all, consider the number of coffee lovers in your family. If more than 2 people treat themselves to an invigorating drink in the morning, pay attention to an automatic coffee maker that can prepare coffee without your participation in a couple of minutes. Also take a closer look at drip or geyser coffee makers with a capacity of 1.5 liters or more.
- If you don’t want to bother with cleaning the device, a capsule coffee machine will be an excellent option.
- If you are on a budget, take a look at drip coffee makers, geyser coffee makers, or an electric turk.
- There is no need to buy a machine with the maximum number of functions. Think about which options you will use and make your choice based on your preferences.
Having chosen the model you like, compare it with others and read reviews on coffee lovers’ forums.
Which coffee maker to choose for the office
Before installing a coffee machine in your office, please note that:
- the machine will need to prepare a large volume of coffee in a short time;
- workers will not treat the machine with care;
- the device cannot be installed in close proximity to a water supply, which means a water tank will be required;
- Automation of the process is important, since there will be no opportunity to be distracted from work by other things.
Based on the listed criteria, you can purchase one of several types of coffee machines for your office:
- capsule - does not require maintenance, and minimal human intervention is required to prepare the drink;
- automatic carob - prepares various hot drinks, but requires cleaning from time to time;
- drip - takes up little space, does not require special cleaning, but can only cook Americano.
It is also worth considering the number of people in the office and the personal preferences of each employee.
How to use and care for your coffee maker
All coffee makers and coffee machines differ in their operating principle and method of operation, however, take into account the basic recommendations for using any type of coffee machine:
- Before use, be sure to read the instructions and watch training videos online.
- Use only filtered or boiled water, otherwise the brewing group will quickly become unusable.
- Do not put anything other than coffee into the bean dispenser.
- Observe safety precautions when preparing the drink.
- Unplug the device when not in use.
Also follow simple rules for caring for your coffee maker:
- read the instructions to know which parts of the coffee maker can be removed and washed;
- remove coffee grounds promptly;
- do not leave milk residues in the cappuccino maker;
- After washing, dry the components of the device thoroughly;
- Clean thoroughly from time to time.
In the assortment of coffee makers for home, you will find a huge variety of models that differ in operating principle, end result, additional functionality and price. Choose a coffee maker based on your preferences, the number of coffee lovers in the family and financial capabilities.
Olga Nikitina
Reading time: 7 minutes
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Modern people - or, at least, most of them - cannot imagine starting the day without a cup of freshly brewed aromatic coffee. Therefore, if you are a coffee lover, then you cannot do without a coffee maker for your home.
It is very important to take an informed approach to the issue of choosing a coffee maker, because... now exists a considerable number of types of coffee makers for home : with a timer, with the function of maintaining coffee for half an hour at a certain temperature and other important commands.
Of the variety of types of coffee makers, the most popular are:
- Drip (filtration)
Not too expensive, most popular. Ground coffee is prepared by filtration, when a thin stream of hot water passes through the mesh where the coffee is located. Coarsely ground coffee is best suited for these coffee makers.
The drip coffee maker has its own features:- The lower the power of the coffee maker, the stronger and tastier the drink you will get.
- Expensive models are equipped with functions: maintaining the temperature even after turning off the compartment that heats the water, an anti-drip shutter that does not allow drink residues to fall on the surface of the stove when removing the cup of coffee.
- Carob coffee makers (espresso)
Translated from Italian, “espresso” means “under pressure”, i.e. This coffee maker works with pressure as well as heating of water. Connoisseurs of coffee and cappuccino will like this type of coffee maker, because... their kit includes a cappuccino maker attachment. At home, thanks to it, it is possible to prepare and enjoy a great cappuccino. It takes about 30 seconds to prepare a cup of coffee. These coffee makers are easy to use and affordable, but you need to practice to properly press ground coffee into the horn.
Carob coffee makers are:- Pump-action, where coffee is prepared very quickly under high pressure, while coffee consumption is reduced and the quality of the drink improves
- Steam, in which the coffee preparation process is slightly longer than in pump-type ones and are designed for 3-4 servings.
In some carob coffee makers, milk froth is supplied automatically, while in others you need to do this yourself. Pay attention to this feature when choosing the right coffee maker.
- Capsule coffee makers
This type of coffee maker uses coffee in capsules. The coffee capsule in the coffee maker is pierced from several sides, then the contents of the capsule are mixed with hot water using a stream of air.
As a result, you get great aromatic coffee with a unique taste. - "French Press"
This coffee maker does not require electricity, it is quite easy to use and you can brew both coffee and a variety of teas. This coffee maker resembles a coffee pot in appearance: its shape is made in the form of a cylinder and is made of heat-resistant glass. In the middle there is a piston with a metal mesh filter.
To make coffee, you need to pour ground coffee into the bottom of the coffee maker, pour boiling water, close the lid and make sure that the piston is in the raised position. After 6-7 minutes, lower the plunger to allow the filter to retain the coffee grounds. That's it - you can pour it into a cup. With such a coffee maker you will need to do a lot of things: add coffee, pour water, keep track of the time. It is impossible to prepare other drinks (cappuccino, espresso). - Steam coffee makers (geyser)
These coffee makers come in two types: electric and manual. The manual one needs to be placed on the stove, but the electric one has a cord to connect to the outlet. To get a drink, you need to pour filtered water into a specially designed compartment to a certain level, and place coffee in the filter (preferably medium grind), but do not compact it, but slightly level it. Place a filter over the water compartment and install a coffee pot.
After the water boils, it will flow through a special small tube, passing through a filter and ending up in the coffee pot. If you want to look at the process by which this coffee maker got the name “geyser”, then open the lid at the moment when the water enters the coffee pot. It resembles a natural geyser. A hissing sound will indicate that the coffee is ready, the water in the compartment has run out and it’s time to turn off the coffee maker. This type of coffee maker allows you to regulate the process of heating water. The slower the heating occurs, the richer the coffee you will get. - Combination coffee makers
They combine the work of carob and drip coffee makers. This type is perfect for making coffee - espresso and Americano.
When you purchase a combination coffee maker, you get two – that’s a plus. The downside is individual care and different grinding of coffee in each part of the coffee maker.
When choosing a coffee maker, pay attention to technical specifications.
Such as:
- Power
If the power is less than 1 kW, then the pressure will be about 4 bar. And for an espresso coffee maker you need 15bar, i.e. power should be from 1 to 1.7 kW. - Filter
There are disposable (paper), reusable (nylon), designed for approximately 60 brews, coated with titanium nitride. - Type of coffee used
For example: ground, grain, in capsules, in pods (ground, pressed into tablets, coffee).
Automated coffee makers - coffee machines Reduce the coffee preparation process to a minimum. You just press a button and that’s it – ready-made coffee in front of you.
A coffee machine for home can be built into furniture, as well as integrated . This type of coffee machine will not disturb the harmony of the interior. With the help of telescopic guides, the coffee machine easily extends, which makes the process of cleaning it, filling the beans and pouring water completely comfortable.
The price of coffee makers and coffee machines for home varies over a fairly wide range. So, the cheapest ones will cost 250 — 300$ , and equipped with many additional functions now cost from 1000 to 4000$ .
Real tasty coffee cannot be prepared using ordinary instant powder. Therefore, true connoisseurs of this drink acquire coffee makers and coffee machines so that they always have the opportunity to prepare a flavorful drink. But there is one problem - the wrong choice of coffee machine can not only lead to dissatisfaction with the taste of the drink, but also to other problems, including network problems and breakdown of the device itself. Let's look at how to choose the right coffee machine or coffee maker for your home.
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.
- Coffee maker- This 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.
- Coffee machine- 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.
Which coffee machine is best for home
A coffee machine for home use must have a number of characteristics, in particular:
- Compact and simple. You don't need a bunch of useless features - they will only increase the cost of the equipment and make it more difficult to use.
- Low noise level. Preparing your morning coffee should not wake up other occupants of the apartment.
The best coffee machine for your home is one that has only the functions you need, is quiet, and brews coffee relatively quickly.
Best coffee machine: manufacturer ratings
Almost all companies specializing in household appliances are involved in the production of coffee machines. This is the problem - for them this is not their main activity, so often the quality of their coffee machines leaves much to be desired. So that you don’t wonder which coffee machine is better and will last longer, we have compiled a rating of the most reliable and trusted manufacturers:
- Philips-Saeco. Coffee machines are the main specialization of the brand. It offers a wide range of devices with different functions and in all price categories.
- Jura. This Swiss brand is the leader in the manufacture of automatic coffee equipment in the world.
- DeLonghi. Italian brand engaged in the production of household appliances. His coffee machines have long won the love of customers.
- Krups. The company prefers to use advanced technologies in the production of coffee equipment, so its products always include a large number of additional functions.
- Vitek. This Russian company has won the love of customers due to its optimal price-quality ratio.
- Miele. The brand has established itself as a manufacturer of extremely reliable and durable coffee machines.
- Siemens. The company is a veteran in the coffee machine market. Over 150 years of operation, the manufacturer has never let its customers down.
- Bork. The company is not particularly popular on the world market, but it offers good coffee machines for home and office.
Knowing which manufacturers you can trust, you will reduce the chances of choosing a low-quality coffee machine tenfold.
How to choose a coffee machine for your home with a cappuccino maker
Everyone's favorite cappuccino consists of only one third espresso, the rest is light milk foam. Today it is not necessary to visit a coffee shop for such a delicacy; cappuccino can be prepared at home, just buy a coffee machine with a cappuccino maker. You can choose this type of equipment in the same way as a regular coffee machine, but you should keep in mind that there are 2 modifications of the device:
- Automatic cappuccino maker. It involves full automation of cappuccino preparation. The entire process takes place at the touch of a button.
- Semi-automatic cappuccino maker. In this case, you will have to move the cup manually to get airy foam.
Of course, the second option is more budget-friendly, but if you do not have the time or desire to participate in the coffee preparation process, it is better to choose a machine with an automatic cappuccino maker.
Capsule coffee machine: features of choice
The term “capsule coffee machine” sounds like something innovative. In fact, this is a common modification of a standard coffee machine, but with the following advantages:
- Simplicity and speed. You will get real aromatic coffee in a matter of seconds at the touch of a button.
- Easy care. You don't need to spend a lot of time cleaning the device.
- Compact sizes and attractive design will look aesthetically pleasing in any kitchen.
- Low noise level.
But one cannot fail to note a significant drawback of capsule coffee machines - the price issue. The cost of the equipment itself may seem low to you, but maintaining the device is a rather expensive process. You will be able to brew coffee only from special capsules of the company from which you purchased the coffee machine. If you do simple calculations, one cup of coffee from such a machine costs approximately the same as premium bean coffee.
Choosing a capsule coffee machine is extremely simple - all the world brands described above produce such devices due to the high demand for them, so you just need to go to the nearest coffee shop and make a purchase. But remember that capsules are not universal. They are suitable only for devices of a specific company. Therefore, immediately pay attention to how easy it is to buy these capsules, whether they are always on sale and what their price is. All these parameters should satisfy you.
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.
Which coffee maker is best for home
We've talked about coffee machines, now let's move on to their semi-automatic counterparts - coffee makers. Coffee makers are much more popular than coffee machines, probably due to their lower cost. Coffee prepared in coffee makers is no worse in quality or taste. Coffee makers come in capsule, drip, geyser and carob types. Depending on your preferences, you should choose the type of device.
The best coffee maker for home: manufacturer ratings
Coffee makers are considered the most popular coffee product, so many unscrupulous manufacturers take advantage of people's trust by selling low-quality products at a high price. So that you know how to choose a coffee maker for your home, we have compiled a rating of the most reliable manufacturers of these machines:
- DELONGHI. The brand is distinguished by the widest range of coffee makers. It offers different types of devices in all price categories.
- SAECO. The advantages of this company are simplicity and durability. There are no complex mechanisms here, but the equipment has been working properly for decades.
- PHILIPS. This company needs no introduction. It produces coffee makers with different functions, designs and in all price categories. Over a hundred years of operation, the company has never produced a low-quality product.
- RUSSELL HOBBS. An English organization that “loves” non-standard design and pretentious shapes of coffee makers - everything is done in the best British traditions.
- Miele. The company produces luxury premium coffee makers. They are especially high quality, but, as you understand, very expensive.
- SENCOR. A household appliances company that produces the best coffee makers with cappuccino makers.
- REDMOND. The brand produces simple coffee makers in the budget price category. Fair value for money.
- GORENJE. The brand produces electric coffee makers in the form that are familiar to all Turks for making coffee.
- SIEMENS. A company that has found a way to save kitchen space. In its range you will find built-in coffee makers with a simple control system.
- ELECTROLUX. A Swiss company producing modern, compact and functional coffee makers at a relatively low cost. Despite these parameters, the quality of the brand’s equipment does not suffer at all.
Which coffee maker is better: drip, carob or geyser?
The choice of coffee maker cannot but be based on the type of machine. The differences between the main types of coffee makers are as follows:
How to choose a carob coffee maker for your home
To understand how to choose a carob coffee maker, you do not need to have special knowledge, just focus on some parameters:
- Steam pressure. The operating principle of the device is based on this, so special attention should be paid to pressure. The most advanced carob coffee makers have a pressure of 15 bar, which allows it to brew coffee in about 30 seconds. The minimum power - 2-4 bar - partially removes the aroma of coffee and prepares the drink in 2-3 minutes.
- Availability of a cappuccino maker. The cappuccino maker can be mechanical or automatic. In the first case, you prepare cappuccino manually, in the second, the coffee maker partially does this for you. Remember that a mechanical cappuccino maker requires you to have some knowledge in the field of coffee preparation.
- Possibility of using packaged coffee. Not all models provide this feature.
The best carob coffee maker is the one that suits you in all respects. Take note of these features and you will have a faithful kitchen assistant.
Choosing a geyser coffee maker
The preparation time for coffee in a geyser coffee maker is approximately 5 minutes. The cost of this device is cheaper than other types of machines. So, to know how to choose a geyser coffee maker, look at the following details:
- Power. It ranges from 450 to 1000 W. Please note that it is not advisable to choose a large-capacity coffee maker with low power - such a device will work slowly, gradually reducing productivity.
- Handle material. It is important that the handle is made of heat-insulating material.
- Availability of glass compartment. The glass insert gives you the opportunity to observe the stages of coffee preparation.
- Ability to maintain temperature. High-quality coffee makers can keep coffee hot for up to half an hour.
- Availability of indicator light. This will allow you to know for sure that your coffee is 100% ready.
Don't forget how many people will be using the coffee maker at the same time. Depending on this, choose the required volume of the device, and do not forget to check it with the power. The best geyser coffee makers always have a volume proportional to the power.
Choosing a drip coffee maker
Drip coffee makers are considered the best because of their widespread use. In fact, all types of machines prepare high-quality coffee, but drip machines are the easiest to use. They should be selected based on the following parameters:
- Power. The lower the power of the coffee maker, the longer the coffee will take to brew and, accordingly, the stronger it will be. The most bitter coffee is made by coffee makers with a power of 800 W.
- Ergonomics and quality. The flask must be made of glass or special plastic.
- Make sure that the manufacturer shown on the package is truly reliable.
- The presence of a thermos. This function allows you to keep your coffee hot for several hours after preparation.
- Presence of overflow protection. If the coffee pot threatens to overflow, the coffee maker will simply turn off.
- Automatic dosage. This parameter allows you to automatically select the optimal ratio of water and coffee.
- Strength selection function. This parameter allows you to adjust the strength of the future drink.
- Temperature indicator. The indicator allows you to manually determine how hot your coffee will be.
Some of these options may be missing, but truly the best drip coffee maker should include all of these features. Another question is the price of such a device. The more functions, the higher it is. Think in advance how much you are willing to part with.
Often, buyers have a question about which coffee maker is better - drip, geyser or carob. There is no definite answer to this question; it all depends on your tastes and preferences. Having carefully studied the features of choosing a device of each type, you will certainly be able to form your own opinion about them. It is worth noting that every coffee maker prepares delicious and aromatic coffee, regardless of the type.
Capsule coffee maker: features of choice
Information about capsule coffee makers is placed in a separate section for a reason. By the term “capsule” the manufacturer means fully automated coffee makers that prepare coffee from special capsules. Familiar definition, isn't it? In fact, a capsule coffee maker is a full-fledged coffee machine, which we have already discussed above. There are no differences; moreover, capsule coffee makers do not exist, because such devices operate only in semi-automatic mode.
If you want to make coffee from capsules, don't fall for marketing gimmicks like "best capsule coffee maker." Just choose a regular capsule-type coffee machine - it costs less than so-called capsule coffee makers.