11 Best Coffee Machines At Home

Coffee is the favorite drink of many people. And that was even before water and beer. Everyone drinks about 162 liters of coffee a year. But coffee is not only widely drunk and with pleasure, the taste experience is also prepared in a different way. Whether as an espresso or as a specialty coffee with milk in the form of a latte macchiato or cappuccino - thanks to the best fully automatic coffee machines, barista coffee can be brewed quickly even at home. Some users like to use pads and capsules for their capsules or pads machine.

Nevertheless, most coffee lovers still like to have honestly brewed filter coffee in their cup. But which machine will best suit your needs? To find out, 11 coffee filter machines are presented in this product comparison. The equipment, functions and handling of each machine are compared and important technical terms are explained.

The 11 best coffee machines at home for comparison

1. Philips HD7546/20 Gaia coffee machine filter

Philips HD7546 /20 Gaia is a coffee filter machine with a hand filter in the middle price segment. Those who like simple and modern designs are advised to choose Café Gaia. This machine is also practical because according to the manufacturer, the thermos keeps the coffee warm for more than 2 hours. The automatic switch also reduces power consumption and ensures better safety.

Water level indicators, such as those in Café Gaia, are now standard on all machines. Practical: Thanks to the drip-stop function, coffee doesn't even have to go through a permanent filter to be able to pour something. Because once the pot is no longer in the machine, the coffee no longer flows. Phillips promises an intense coffee aroma thanks to the concentrated amount of water.

Advantages

High performance in watts
Thermal flask
With cable winder
Relatively easy

Deficiency

No timer
Relatively long brewing time
Only with paper filters

2. Melitta 1010-14 Easy Timer coffee machine

The Melitta 1010-14 Easy Timer coffee machine is a relatively simple filter machine, but according to the manufacturer it still does its job with a glass jug and rotary filter. The amount of water is enough for 10 large cups of coffee and 15 small cups. There are no exact details about the size of each cup. Transparent water level indicator helps to properly divide the amount of coffee. Thanks to the integrated timer function, coffee can be freshly brewed at a specific time in the morning.

With aroma valve: According to the manufacturer, the aroma valve on the Melitta 1010-14 Easy Timer coffee machine ensures the ideal temperature and optimal development of the coffee aroma. The brewing temperature is 95 degrees Celsius. The valve only allows water to flow into the filter paper when this temperature has been reached.

The coffee filter machine has an LED display and is suitable for the Melitta 1x4 filter bag, which is not included in the scope of delivery. It also offers an adjustable stay warm time of 20, 40 or 60 minutes and has an output of 1,050 watts. The water tank has a capacity of 1.25 liters. This machine also offers an automatic limit switch and has an on/off switch that lights up.

Advantages

Relatively short brewing time
With aroma valve
High performance
Equipped with timer

Deficiency

Only with paper filters

3. Melitta 100801 Optima Timer coffee filter machine

The Melitta 100801 Optima Timer coffee machine is in the mid-price segment, but can have a number of interesting functions. Among other things, the water tank is removable, which makes filling easier. There is also an LED screen. The machine timer function can also be controlled via the display. If you want your coffee to be made automatically in the morning, you can set it using a timer. Just fill the machine with water and coffee, set the time and coffee is ready the next morning.

According to Melitta, not only the water tank, but also filter inserts, glass jugs, and hinged and tank covers can be cleaned in the dishwasher. The filter engine automatically indicates when it's time to descale again.

The Optima Timer also has an auto-off switch. Here you can even choose whether the machine will turn itself off after 30, 60 or 90 minutes. There's no thermos container to keep food warm longer, but it does come with a glass container that can be easily put in the dishwasher. Engine plus points: Energy consumption is not only low at full power. In standby mode, the machine consumes less than one watt.

Advantages

With timer function
With 3-in-1 . descaling protection
Washable and removable filter basket
With cable compartment

Deficiency

Relatively heavy
Capacity only 1 liter

4. SEVERIN KA 9256 . coffee machine

The SEVERIN KA 9256 has a simple design and is available in white. In terms of price, the machine is classified as middle class. The advantage of the KA 9256 is its two flasks. Quite useful if you need to heat up more coffee.

Another advantage of the two thermal jugs is that, compared to other models, a larger quantity of coffee can be kept warm and served at the same time.

Unfortunately, SEVERIN KA 9256 spare parts are not dishwasher safe. The manufacturer recommends cleaning by hand. Another special feature is the integrated cable compartment for more elegant power cord storage.

Advantages

Washable and removable filter basket
With two thermal flasks
With cable compartment

Deficiency

No timer

5. WMF Bueno Aroma Coffee Machine

This WMF engine is available in various versions. Either with digital display, glass or thermos. The difference is noticeable in terms of price, but the additional cost for a digital display is still quite moderate.

The special feature of this machine is the automatic heating plate. After the coffee runs out, the heating plate is activated and automatically turns off again after 40 minutes. In addition, drip protection is integrated. The filter can be removed from this model, but according to WMF it should be cleaned under running water and not in the dishwasher.

Advantages

With heating plate
Washable and removable filter basket

Deficiency

No timer

6. Philips HD5408/20 Café Gourmet filter coffee machine

This Philips HD5408/20 Cafe Gourmet coffee filter works on the principle of direct brewing and thus belongs to the class of luxury filters. This is also reflected in the price. The high temperature of 93 degrees and the so-called Aroma Twister should ensure optimal coffee aroma. According to Philips, this function is based on a nozzle that allows the coffee to flow into the pot so that it circulates there.

Swivel filters and jugs can go in the dishwasher. This model is available in stainless steel and black versions. Preparation time is about 10 minutes. However, the stainless steel and black models do not have a timer function. Like most modern coffee machines, a drip-stop function is also integrated in this device.

Advantages

With the principle of direct brewing
With a twister scent
Unusual design
Double heating element

Deficiency

Only with paper filters
Only 1 liter water tank
Relatively long brewing time

7. Aigostar Chocolate 30HIK coffee maker

A simple model from a low price range: If you just want to make coffee, this model is a good choice. It's lightweight and comes with everything you need to make coffee. In addition, the removable parts can be put in the dishwasher.

In a few minutes, the machine brews 1.25 liters of coffee, which is the equivalent of about ten cups. The advantage of this machine is that there is no need for a filter bag, as a manual filter is integrated in the machine, which is also dishwasher safe.

The water level indicator on the side of the device allows water to be divided precisely for the brewing process. According to the manufacturer, all parts of the coffee machine that are exposed to water are free of bisphenol-A (BPA). However, this is not the case with temperature resistant teapots.

Advantages

With high performance brewing system
3-in-1 option: brewing coffee, tea and hot chocolate
Rotary filter
Relatively high performance

Deficiency

No timer

8. Russell Hobbs Textures Plus coffee maker

This coffee machine from the Textures Plus breakfast series by Russell Hobbs doesn't just impress with its low price. With an output of 1,000 watts and a capacity of 1.25 liters, this machine prepares fresh filter coffee for up to 10 people. In addition, the device offers several convenient settings via digital controls. A timer can be used so you can enjoy your first cup of coffee every morning as soon as you wake up.

With shower head technology: The Russel Hobbs Textures Plus coffee machine relies on shower head technology. Unlike conventional machines, the hot water does not drip onto the coffee grounds in the center, but is sprayed onto the grounds over a wide area from several different openings and angles. This is to ensure even and better extraction of black gold.

The machine has a drip stop so that no water enters the heating plate after the container is removed. The jug provided is made of glass. The filter stand is completely removable for easy cleaning.

Advantages

Shower head technology
With timer function
Washable and removable filter basket

Deficiency

No heating pan

9. Melitta Look Therm Timer 1011-16 coffee machine

The Melitta Look Therm Timer 1011-16 coffee machine is a machine from the high price segment that pays special attention to the aroma of coffee. A special extra when operating this machine is the scent selector. With the help of this feature, the coffee intensity can be individually selected from mild to very strong aromatic through aromatic substances. The machine also monitors the hardness of the water and the pH value can also be determined with a test strip. In addition, the indicator light shows when the engine needs to be descaled.

Another advantage: Due to its small size, this filter machine must also find space in a small kitchen.

The Melitta Look Therm Timer 1011-16 coffee machine has a timer that you can use to determine when the brewing process should start.

Advantages

With a thermos
With timer function
With scent selector
With 3-in-1 . descaling protection

Deficiency

With paper filter

10. Melitta Enjoy Top Therm 1017-08 coffee machine

This model also has an integrated scent selector. If you like to vary the intensity of your coffee, you can use this extra when serving. The brewing temperature is around 93 degrees - the ideal temperature for aromatic coffee.

Melitta advertises that the machine can be operated with one hand, i.e. handling is generally very uncomplicated. The water indicators on both sides of the water tank are very practical. The capacity of the thermos is enough for about ten cups of coffee, which stays warm for up to 2 hours.

Melitta also promises easy handling, as the filter holder is easy to remove. This should also make rinsing easier. There is an integrated drip stop. Due to the removable swivel filter, insertion and filling should be done in a few simple steps.

Advantages

Modern design
With a thermos
With flavor picker
Lit on/off switch

Deficiency

No timer
Only with paper filters

11. Krups F30908 coffee maker

The Krups F30908 coffee maker is a space-saving machine with a sleek black design. Krups counts on solid functionality with this machine. A special feature of this model is the hot brewing system. This system is designed to ensure that the brew temperature and coffee output speed are optimally adjusted to ensure full aroma development.

The keep-warm function is intended to keep coffee warm for up to 30 minutes after brewing. There is also a power off function, but the machine only turns off after 2 hours of non-use. What is handy for connoisseurs, however, is that the last drop that flows through the opening during the brewing process automatically closes the Pro-Aroma cap.

Special features : Krups emphasizes precise temperature control during extraction, thanks to the Pro-Aroma technique. It extracts the aroma from the coffee grounds better.

Advantages

XL water tank
Close Flavor Pro
Heating function
Available as a set with toaster and kettle

Deficiency

Only with paper filters
No timer

How does a coffee filter machine work?

There are coffee machines in many variants and designs, such as espresso machines, coffee pads or capsule machines, and fully automatic coffee machines that fulfill every coffee desire at the push of a button. Since this product comparison relates only to the preparation of hot drinks with a coffee filter machine, only the functions of this machine are described. We do not consider preparation with coffee machines, portafilter machines, foaming machines, espresso makers, coffee pad machines or coffee capsule machines.

In most filter machines, the heating element heats the water that is loaded onto the floor. Pump pressure that occurs while a hot drink is being prepared as the water heats up rapidly, and then flows through a narrow hose for further brewing.

The coffee machine has a one-way valve so the steam bubbles can only flow this way and don't settle on the floor again when the temperature drops. This valve closes in the coffee maker after some of the moisture has passed through. The hot water that reaches the top then finally drips onto the ground coffee. Gradually, the hot water flows through the coffee grounds step by step and provides filtered coffee. Gone are the days when users burned their hands while manually brewing coffee with hot water or had to check the temperature of the coffee themselves.

The exception to this rule is coffee machines where the water tank is mounted above the filter. According to coffee machine manufacturers, an even development of aroma should occur when the hot water does not hit the coffee grounds drop by drop, but completely.

Advantages & disadvantages of coffee machine with filter:

Advantages

Often cheap to buy
Low price per cup of coffee
Various types of coffee available

Deficiency

About the taste: The taste of coffee may not be good for the connoisseur
Popular types of coffee with milk foam, such as cappuccinos, cannot be prepared

Which filter coffee machine should it be? – The most important buying criteria in the overview

There are a few key buying considerations that everyone, regardless of the type of coffee maker, should take into account in order to brew coffee that tastes great. To be able to determine the best individual coffee machine, here are some of them:

Dimensions: The dimensions of the filter machine come into play when space is at a premium or the new coffee machine can't be bigger than the rest of the kitchen equipment. Weight is important if you want to carry a coffee machine when traveling, for example.
Capacity: The larger the coffee maker's pot or water tank for preparing filter coffee, the more cups of coffee it can brew per round. But the question is: How much coffee do you really need? In one household, smaller quantities of hot drinks may need to be prepared.
Types of jugs: There are also two types of jugs for coffee machines: glass jugs or thermos jugs. Here it depends on individual drinking preferences. If the pot is empty again soon, the glass variant will suffice. If the coffee wants to stay hot for a while, a thermos is a better choice. If a coffee machine with a glass case usually has a heating function, a thermos is still a better alternative because it doesn't use electricity to warm the coffee.
Auto-off: With a glass coffee maker, the heating plate stays on after brewing. Good models have an auto-off function, which is beneficial for the environment and safety. Depending on the device, auto power off usually starts after 30 to 40 minutes. Devices that have a thermos often have an off function. It activates immediately after brewing.
Descaling: Many coffee machines have a screen that lights up when descaling is required. Some coffee machine models offer an automatic descaling program that does this job.
Timer: The timer is useful when the user doesn't want to wait for the coffee to run out. With this you can set the time at which the device turns on automatically and starts brewing.

How Much Does a Coffee Machine Cost?

Basically, the more functions a coffee machine offers, the more expensive it will be in normal cases. However, it is mainly down to personal preference whether extras such as a timer and descaling program are necessary for the coffee machine. These functions are always handy, but don't say anything about the coffee quality of each machine. But more extras usually mean higher prices.

Therefore, there are coffee machines that cost around $30, despite not having any technical equipment, meant to prepare coffee that is just as good and tasting as the high-priced models. However, alternative machines that cost more than $100 and offer many features are also available.

If the price of the coffee machine is $10 or less, losses can be expected. Such low-priced coffee makers often have processing defects. Low quality materials sometimes lead to a short service life. A small investment in a higher priced machine is always worthwhile if the coffee machine is to ensure satisfaction at the coffee table for a longer period of time.

It all depends on the grind level: choose the ideal coffee strength using a coffee grinder or grinder for a good cup of coffee

Even if classic coffee grinders are not often found in German households, the grind level still matters because of the grind function. Ground coffee is not just ground coffee and the degree of grinding that must be set on the grinder of the coffee machine – whether it is a disc grinder or a cone grinder – determines the taste of the finished drink. But what is the ideal effect of the grinding rate on the grinder on the final result? Is there a difference between a base ingredient and a classic coffee grinder?

Basically, whether you should grind the coffee beans from the bean container coarsely or finely depends on how long the coffee grounds have been in contact with the water. Finely ground coffee of each type of bean has a larger surface area than coarsely ground coffee. With the same brew time, more material has to be removed from finely ground coffee grounds in the grinder than from coarse coffee.

There is a maximum of 20 percent of the material that can be extracted from peanuts when in contact with hot water.

Which degree should I choose?

The secret to preparing great coffee is the best match between grind rate and water contact time. The shorter the coffee grounds are in contact with the water and the higher the pressure of the water flowing through the coffee grounds, the finer the coffee grounds will be. For example, finely ground coffee beans are ideal for espresso machines, while coarsely ground coffee is perfect for French press versions of hot drinks.

However, there is no universal patent recipe for the right grind level to prepare the coffee as fresh as possible. Everyone has their own preference when it comes to the strength of their coffee. You'll have to experiment a bit and set different grind levels to find out which coffee tastes best.

Why should I descale the coffee maker?

It doesn't matter whether the coffee machine indicates the right time to descale or not - every device should be cleaned periodically. But why is that and what will happen if the coffee machine is not decalcified? Below are the answers to the most important questions:

Why is there lime in the water at all?

In nature, our drinking water flows through the most diverse layers of rock. Depending on the region, the rock layers contain smaller or greater amounts of lime. As water flows through the rock, it picks up magnesium and calcium carbonate. If the water contains a lot of carbonates, it is called hard water. There is a risk of the machine becoming calcified.

Why doesn't the lime stay in the water when using the coffee machine?

Lime bound to drinking water will precipitate when heated. Depending on the hardness of the water, more and more deposits will form over time. This effect affects not only coffee machines, but also, for example, kettles, dishwashers and pans.

Why is lime crust not good?

Lime scale is harmless - small amounts are even good for coffee machines. A thin layer of lime covering the seals and lines of the filter machine has a protective effect. Over time, regular cleaning and descaling procedures can corrode and damage coffee machine parts. The chalk film protects these parts. Nevertheless, the machine cleaning program can be used without hesitation.

A thick layer of chalk inside the machine is of little use. The negative effects of a thick layer of lime include:

If there is a layer of lime scale on top of the heating element, it is no longer functioning properly and it takes longer to heat the water . This not only ensures a longer waiting time when brewing, but also higher energy consumption.
Some coffee machines do not have a device that measures the temperature of the water. If the heating time is increased due to lime scale, the coffee maker will not recognize it and the water will not be hot enough to touch the ground coffee. This causes loss of taste and quality in the finished coffee.
If a lot of lime builds up, the device may clog in several places and damage it.
Too much lime can also corrode seals and tool parts in the long run, drastically shortening the life of the coffee machine.

How do I properly descale my coffee machine?

First of all, the question arises of how often it is really appropriate to descale a coffee machine. The answer lies in personal drinking habits or how often the device is used. Water hardness also plays a role in filtering coffee. If your own coffee filter doesn't indicate when it's time to descale again, heavy drinkers should descale every 14 to 21 days . You can also use an industrial or homemade descaling cleaner to remove limescale from the device.

Anyone using the purchased product must follow the instructions exactly. Different variants of descaling can be powders or liquids that are dissolved in water and then filled into a water tank. However, coffee machines can also be decalcified with vinegar essence mixed with water - preferably in a 1:2 ratio.

If it is not a coffee filter machine, but an automatic coffee machine or other device containing rubber parts, scale with acetic acid should be avoided. The acid can damage the rubber seals and other components of the coffee machine.

Another home remedy that can be used to remove limescale deposits is baking soda, for example. Aspirin or citric acid can be used - as can a drugstore denture cleaner. Simply dissolve the agent in water and let it run through the coffee machine. At the end of the cycle time, fill with clean water and start the second cycle.

How dangerous is the bitter substance in coffee?

Basically, the bitter substances in coffee are not harmful to health. Only those who drink coffee in large quantities should expect that the bitter substance will attack the stomach. On the other hand, if you drink coffee in small quantities, you can even expect a positive effect, because the bitter substance has a digestive-stimulating effect.

What are the alternatives to existing filter coffee machines?

There are many different ways to make a great coffee drink. If you are looking for an alternative to filter coffee machines, one of the following machines might be a good fit:

Espresso pot: Despite the suggested name - this device does not prepare real espresso. They only work on the principle of steam. The espresso pot (percolator) consists of two parts. Ground coffee comes in at the bottom, as well as a snug filter at the top of the base. The user mounts the pot to enjoy the finished coffee on it. The percolator is lit on the stove to heat the water. With pressure from below, water enters through the ground coffee into the pot.
Espresso machines: These devices are usually expensive, but prepare a great classic espresso. Machines with portafilters for espresso preparation work under pressure and press steam up to 10 bar through a portafilter with espresso powder. The powder is in contact with the steam in the espresso maker for about 30 seconds. Due to the high pressure, the coffee oil combines with the water in the portafilter machine to form an emulsion.
Pressurized brewing system: With such a device, the user benefits from the combined properties of a coffee machine and an espresso machine. The coffee grounds enter the filter located on the lid of the pot. After heating, the water comes into contact with the coffee grounds as steam. The resulting coffee in the end has a strong aroma and is perfect for people who like to drink their coffee strong.
French press pot: With such a device, coffee lovers mix coffee grounds in a glass container with hot water. After about 4 minutes, the user has to slowly press the so-called cap to separate the brewed coffee from the coffee grounds. The result is a strong, full-bodied fragrance.
Pad coffee machine: To brew coffee grounds, the user has to place individual portions in the form of pads or capsules in the coffee machine. It is well thought out that a capsule machine or pad machine prepares coffee in portions at the push of a button within a few seconds via a coffee pad. Such a capsule system or coffee pad machine can prepare not only pure coffee and espresso drinks, but all kinds of specialty coffees with milk foam, such as cappuccinos or latte macchiatos. Therefore, coffee pad machines are ideal for brewing specialty coffees with milk foam.
Fully automatic coffee machine: With such a device, different types of coffee and coffee specialties can be conjured - at the touch of a button. Compared to filter coffee machines, automatic coffee machines are much more expensive, but offer more options. Usually, automatic coffee machines are equipped with a grinder for the coffee beans and a milk container, so that cappuccinos and their milk froth counterparts are ready to drink in a matter of seconds thanks to the milk frother. The quality of the beans is critical for a fully automated machine.

Conclusion

By now, you have understood the various things about home coffee machines. Your interest in espresso and your knowledge of how to make it will certainly affect the taste of the coffee produced.

Have you found the best coffee machine for your home needs? Hope you made a choice on the right coffee machine.