Coffee Maker Buying Guide

There are many different types and models of coffee maker available to buy online, covering most tastes and budgets.

Here are some useful hints and tips to consider when buying a coffee maker.

How To Choose A Coffee Maker

Firstly, you'll need to decide what you want from a coffee maker. Remember that, as with most kitchen appliances, there's no point in paying more money for features that you won't use.

Coffee making can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Machines vary from manually operated to fully automatic models, with accessories and extras for creating a range of coffee-based drinks complete with finishing touches to equal those of the most bespoke coffee shops!

To make it easier to find the coffee maker that will best suit your needs, here is an outline of the main types of coffee maker:

Cafetière - Straightforward and easy to use, the cafetière makes great filter coffee, by simply using a wire filter attached to a plunger pressed into a glass jug. The cafetière is the least expensive of coffee makers, and doesn't use electricity or take up much space - in fact it looks so stylish that you can leave them out on the dining table.
Percolators - Also known as an espresso coffee pot, percolators have a great continental look, and are popular for the distinctive tasting coffee they produce. Placed on a hob, percolators work by generating steam to force hot water upwards through ground coffee into the top half of the jug. Because the percolator produces a very strong coffee, it's ideal for espresso.
Filter Coffee Makers - Powered from the mains, filter coffee makers heat the water, filtering it through a cone filled with ground coffee and into a jug sitting on a hot plate. Because there's no need to boil the water first, and you can choose the strength and amount of fresh coffee that it produces, filter coffee makers are convenient for making small or large amounts of coffee.
Pump Espresso Machines - With a thermostatically controlled water tank system, a pump espresso machine heats water to the optimum temperature for making coffee, for ease of use and convenience. Pump machines use a precise bar pressure to send the water through the coffee, which is held in a filter holder. Basic models of pump espresso machine use aluminium filter holders, while upmarket models use brass holders, which are better for retaining heat. While pump machines are usually more expensive than other types of coffee maker, they create great tasting coffee and are becoming a must-have item for many households. Many models of pump espresso machine also have a spout for frothing milk, so that you can also make cappuccino.
Pressure Espresso Machines - Using the power of steam to force water through ground coffee, pressure espresso machines are great for creating fresh tasting frothy coffee. While pressure espresso machines are less expensive than pump espresso machines, many coffee lovers claim that that they are not as good because the water has to reach boiling point, and this is too hot for perfect espresso.
Nespresso Machines - Essentially these coffee makers work in the same way as pump espresso machines, but instead of having to pour in ground coffee and clean the filter holders, you simply use a coffee pod - a hermetically sealed capsule of ground coffee. The taste is just as fresh and strong as coffee from a conventional pump machine but it's worth noting that you are restricted to the range of coffee pods supplied for that machine. High-end nespresso machines usually come with a solenoid valve, increasing the water pressure for a better tasting coffee.
Combination Coffee Makers - These are the most versatile type of coffee machine, as they allow you to make filter coffee, espresso, cappuccinos and many other types of coffee. Combination coffee makers are larger than other types of coffee maker, so make sure that you have enough space on your kitchen worktop if you're considering buying one. They also tend to be more expensive, but they are ideal for people who like different types of coffee, and people with large families or who have guests to dinner regularly.

Do I Need To Buy An Extended Coffee Maker Warranty?

Most coffee machines will come with a warranty providing cover for repairs or a replacement under certain conditions. However, it's worth comparing the warranty terms and conditions offered by different manufacturers and retailers to make sure that you are betting the best deal.

Set a limit on the amount of money that you are prepared to spend on a coffee maker. Don't be tempted to spend more for features you won't use. By shopping around online, comparing prices and products across a range of retailers, and taking advantage of special offers and discounts, you could a great deal, or even get a better coffee maker for your money.