How to choose the best espresso machine

Ask whether there's a demonstration model of the machine you’re interested in so you can try before you buy, and look for these features:

• Brew capacity: If you’ll want to make two coffees at once, make sure the machine you’re considering can do so. Also check whether it can accommodate tall cups as not all models can.

• Size: Compact machines leave you with more bench space but, if you often make several coffees back-to-back, you might need a larger machine with a water tank that won’t need refilling so often.

• Adjustable grinder: If the machine you’re considering has a grinder, make sure it’s adjustable so you can grind your coffee by the right amount to suit your taste.

TIP: If you buy a separate grinder, choose a burr (rather than blade) model so the coffee is ground evenly and extracts evenly for the best flavour.

• Adjustable strength setting: If you buy an automatic machine, choose one with an adjustable strength setting so you can tweak the intensity of the brew to your taste.

• Milk frother: If you want full control over milk frothing, choose a machine with a manual steam wand. Some automatic milk frothers also do a great job, including some capsule machines that use milk capsules. Check the milk frothing scores in our test results.

TIP: If there’s a froth enhancer on the milk-frothing wand, removing it will often produce a better foam (despite its name). Some froth enhancers aren’t removable, so check.

TIP: You can make reasonable milk froth with a basic coffee plunger. Heat the milk and pour it into your pre-warmed plunger. Then pump the plunger through the milk a few times until it foams.

• Controls: Make sure they’re clear and simple to use. Digital displays are usually best.

• Tamper: Choose a machine with a separate, solid metal tamper to pack the coffee down evenly so it extracts evenly. Plastic tampers and those fixed to a machine typically do a poor job.

• Cup warmer: Using a machine’s cup warmer is the easiest way to prevent a tepid brew and preserve its flavour and the milk’s froth. If the machine doesn’t have one, you’ll have to pre-heat your cup separately.

• Cleaning programme: Ideally, any machine you buy will have an automatic cleaning programme. If the machine has to be cleaned manually, check that the parts can be removed easily and are dishwasher safe.

• Drip tray: A large drip tray won’t need draining as often as a smaller one, which is handy if you make regular coffees throughout the day. Make sure it’s easy to remove.

• Exterior: A seamless exterior is easiest to clean. But note that stainless steel and matte finishes can make fingerprints and grime stand out.

See our espresso machines test results to find a machine with the features you want.

Capsule machines are often the cheapest type to buy. But they can mean spending more long term, as capsules typically cost more than ground coffee or whole beans.

Here's how coffee costs compare over a year, based on two double shot espressos a day:

• Espresso machines: $360–$945 per year.
• Capsule machines: $950–$1,505 per year.
• Takeaway coffees: $2,900–$4,015 per year.

* Excludes the price of the coffee machine, since there’s a wide range in prices. Check out our test results to compare prices.

Under the Electricity Act, all electrical appliances for sale must be safe, whether they're new or secondhand, bought privately or from a dealer.

You might save money buying secondhand, but there are some things to check before you hand over your cash:

• Type of machine: Consider the pros and cons of the different types. Some are easier to use while others provide more control. And some may be cheaper up front but can cost you more over time.

• Brand and model: Check our espresso machines test results for both current and discontinued models to see how the machine performed in testing. Our discontinued models go back several years. If the model you’re looking at was widely available when it entered the New Zealand market, there’s a good chance we’ve tested it. Also check the brand’s reliability and satisfaction ratings for espresso machines.

• Features and settings: Check whether the machine has the features and settings you want. See our test results to compare models.

• Condition, age and usage: Does the machine look clean and tidy? Check the exterior and all components for cracks, dings or excessive scratches. Also look for coffee stains and other grime, which can be a sign of infrequent cleaning. Such grime can taint the flavour of your coffee and even lead to blockages that damage the machine.

  Ask the seller how old the machine is and how often it’s been used. Have they owned it from new? Has it ever been used commercially?

• Cleaning, maintenance and repair history: Ask whether the machine has been cleaned regularly and descaled as needed. Have any major repairs been required?

• Price and guarantee: Compare the asking price with the prices of similar espresso machines on the market. Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Note: If you buy from a secondhand dealer, you're protected by the Consumer Guarantees Act. If you buy privately, you're not – but you might find cheaper deals.

• Test run: Request a test run before buying the machine. Make three or more cups of coffee using your usual coffee and milk. Does the machine warm up quickly for first use? Check you can easily use the machine. Make sure the coffee grinds evenly (ie, the grinder’s burrs are sharp). Check for any leaks. Also make sure every cup of coffee tastes good and the strength is consistent.