Have you developed a particular liking for espresso and want to make your own coffee at home? An espresso machine-cum-coffee maker is just what you need. These models come in many forms, but they are all designed to make coffee, espresso and even froth milk for cappuccinos. With this buying guide, choose the espresso machine that best suits your needs.
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Our selection
"The easy-to-use EP2220/10 espresso combo coffee maker is the perfect partner to satisfy your espresso and coffee cravings. This sleek and slim machine fits easily…"
"For less than 300 euros, the best espresso combo coffee maker you can buy is the De'Longhi Magnifica S. It will allow you to create…"
"SAECO Xelsis SM7683/00 is a true premium espresso coffee maker combo. It features a gleaming stainless steel finish, a choice of 15 beverages and is…"
"If you're looking for a quick and easy to use espresso maker combo, the Krups Intuition is the model for you. You'll be able to…"
The easy-to-use EP2220/10 espresso combo coffee maker is the perfect partner to satisfy your espresso and coffee cravings. This sleek and slim machine fits easily into your home or office kitchen.
252 £ on AmazonThe Philips EP2220/10 semi-automatic espresso machine gives you 2 tasty drinks from fresh beans at the right temperature. It never gives you bitter or burnt coffee. The intuitive touch screen of this espresso combo coffee maker helps you easily select the type of beverage you want to have (coffee, espresso, cappuccino, etc.). You can also adjust the temperature, volume and strength of the hot drink.
Its classic milk frothing system allows you to prepare silky smooth frothed milk for espresso and cappuccino. When making espresso with the Philips EP2220/10, you can add multiple flavors or aromas (fruity, chocolate, etc). This espresso coffee maker has an aquaclean filter which allows you to make up to 5000 cups before descaling.
For less than 300 euros, the best espresso combo coffee maker you can buy is the De'Longhi Magnifica S. It will allow you to create rich and perfect drinks, including a cappuccino with a creamy foam.
239 £ on AmazonThe DeLonghi Magnifica S espresso maker combination allows you to make any type of coffee you desire with the touch of a button. With a twist of the main knob, you can change the intensity of the drink. The Magnifica S combines steam, air and milk in perfect order to produce a rich, creamy froth. We also like the quick cappuccino function that makes using the machine very simple. You have a wide choice of coffee types: strong or extra mild, hot or warm.
If you want to discover the taste of an exotic coffee, you will be happy to know that the De'Longhi Magnifica S espresso machine has a silent coffee grinder with 13 settings. There is a coffee grounds container and a coffee bean container that will preserve all the aroma of your coffee. It should be noted that the coffee dispenser can hold two cups with a height that can go from 8.6 to 14.2 cm.
SAECO Xelsis SM7683/00 is a true premium espresso coffee maker combo. It features a gleaming stainless steel finish, a choice of 15 beverages and is designed for frequent use and multiple cups.
1 079 £ on AmazonOne of the key features of the SAECO Xelsis SM7683/00 is the Coffee Equalizer. Just as an audio equalizer allows you to adjust the bass, midrange and treble of your tunes, you can do the same with the temperature of your cappuccino, milk foam and coffee strength simply by playing with the sliders displayed on the touch screen. The espresso combo coffee maker is relatively compact and can fit on most kitchen counters.
The SAECO Xelsis SM7683/00 automatic espresso combo coffee maker stands out from the competition with A grinder with a flat burr ceramic mechanism capable of producing the finest textures required for coffee and espresso. With the ability to adjust the coffee strength, temperature and volume to be served, you can be sure to get the coffee or cappuccino you like.
If you're looking for a quick and easy to use espresso maker combo, the Krups Intuition is the model for you. You'll be able to brew a morning coffee in no time by simply following the instructions on the touch screen.
622 £ on AmazonAny specific needs?
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9/10 |
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| OUR SELECTION |
Philips EP2220/10
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De'Longhi Magnifica S
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SAECO Xelsis SM7683/00
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Krups Intuition
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The easy-to-use EP2220/10 espresso combo coffee maker is the perfect partner to satisfy your espresso and coffee cravings. This sleek and slim machine fits easily into your home or office kitchen.
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For less than 300 euros, the best espresso combo coffee maker you can buy is the De'Longhi Magnifica S. It will allow you to create rich and perfect drinks, including a cappuccino with a creamy foam.
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SAECO Xelsis SM7683/00 is a true premium espresso coffee maker combo. It features a gleaming stainless steel finish, a choice of 15 beverages and is designed for frequent use and multiple cups.
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If you're looking for a quick and easy to use espresso maker combo, the Krups Intuition is the model for you. You'll be able to brew a morning coffee in no time by simply following the instructions on the touch screen.
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Type
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Semi-automatic
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Semi-automatic
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Automatic
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Automatic
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Number of possible drinks
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12 + hot water
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-
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15 + hot water
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12 + hot water
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Dimensions (W x H x D)
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24.6 x 43.3 x 37.1 cm
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23.8 x 43 x 35.1 cm
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28.3 x 48.9 x 39.3 cm
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28.7 x 47.6 x 38.1 cm
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Touch screen
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Yes
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No
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Yes
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Yes
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Capacity
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1.8 liters
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1.8 liters
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1.6 liters
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3 liters
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The espresso coffee machine combinations are differentiated according to their level of automation: manual, semi-automatic, automatic and super-automatic. With manual models, you have to pull a lever to create pressure. This is a fairly tedious process. That's why you won't see any in this guide. Semi-automatic machines involve setting up the filter holder by hand and deciding when to stop pulling, giving you more control over the strength of your coffee.
With a fully automatic model, you still have to place the filter holder by hand, but the water flow stops automatically when the espresso or coffee is finished to avoid over-extraction. Finally, super-automatic espresso combos make each drink (coffee, espresso, cappuccino) at the touch of a button. They can even froth milk for you. They tend to be the most compact, but they are also the most expensive espresso combo coffee maker models.
Somecoffee maker combination espresso models allow users to control variables when making espresso or coffee, such as water pressure and temperature. Like coffee, espresso tastes best when the water temperature is between 90 and 95°C . Below 90°C, and it is difficult for espresso to reach the proper extraction percentage, which means it will be sweet and watery.
Pressure is a more complicated variable. Espresso machine manufacturers love to advertise that a product can reach over 20 bars of pressure, but all you really need is 15 bars; beyond that, it's completely unnecessary. A 15-bar machine is capable of creating the perfect pressure, because the pressure intended for the head of a pod is only 9 bar.
Somecoffee maker combination espressos are compatible with both coffee pods and coffee grounds , but you usually have to choose between the two. Freshly ground coffee beans are generally more flavorful than pod coffees and can be adjusted to make the coffee stronger or milder.
Coffee grounds are also more affordable than pods and can be purchased in a wider range of flavors. Pod machines are convenient because they speed up the brewing process, make cleaning easier and eliminate the hassle of packing the filter by hand. These are mostly single-serve, while brewers that use ground coffee can often make several cups at once
Somecoffee machines have a programming feature to set the start of the brewing processin advance.This will allow you to have a freshly brewed cup of coffee as soon as you wake up. Try to find a model that has a digital display that you can read more easily than one with simple lights, especially when you need to program your espresso combination coffee maker.
Anespresso combo coffee maker that is easy to use, but very difficult to clean is far from being very convenient. Please make sure you know what to use for cleaningbefore you buy it. Refer to the instructions provided by the manufacturer, as this may void your warranty. Your espresso combo coffee maker may have more features and components, which will probably take you a long time to clean. In coffee maker combination espressos, poor quality grinders are often the cause of blockages. So always invest in a brand name model, even if it's a little more expensive.
Beforeyou buy your espresso combo coffee maker, you shouldmake sure that there is enough space in your kitchen to arrange the device. Yes, this is something you should be concerned about, as you may want to use the coffee maker for the rest of your life in the dining room or kitchen. You also need to consider the counter space. Consider measuring the area, including the height, and make sure you place it near the outlet where you will plug in your espresso combo coffee maker.
Most people like to drink coffee to get a boost of energy, but not only that. There are also those who simply love the taste of a hot brew. Of course, brewing takes time and not everyone has the luxury of doing it in the morning, especially when it's only one cup. If you just need something to wake you up, then we recommend an espresso. Better to opt for a single espresso if you need a boost. It only takes a few seconds to brew, it's concentrated and gets the job done quickly.
But what if you want the best of both worlds? For that situation, there's always the option of getting a combination espresso coffee maker. And it's not as expensive as you might think. A really good coffee and espresso machine can cost less than 400 euros and still offer great taste in all cup sizes. What's even better is that if you get one for your home or office, one machine is enough to satisfy everyone's needs.
The experience of drinking filter coffee is quite different from espresso. For starters, with coffee, you'll drink a larger amount. This means you can sip your cup longer. Some people think that espresso has more caffeine in it, but that is not the case. The main thing that changes the amount of caffeine in your drink is the number of beans needed to make it. As a result, the largest serving of filter coffee will generally contain much more caffeine than an espresso.
But because you'll be drinking your espresso faster, you'll feel more of the caffeine in it. It is mainly fast brewing. It's true that for best results, you'll need to grind your coffee fresh. But preparing an espresso takes only a few seconds. That's because a combination espresso coffee maker forces steam under pressure through the coffee grounds extracting flavor very quickly. Not surprisingly, these differences make for a very different tasting coffee as well. And if you want an authentic cappuccino or latte, you'll need an espresso as a base.
A manual espresso combo offers a truly hands-on experience and is the original way to make espresso or coffee, requiring you to generate the high pressure (at least 9 bars) needed to push hot water through a well-packed pod filled with finely ground coffee. The hot water and high pressure extract more flavor from the beans.
Many espresso lovers think the best espresso maker combos are manual, because they allow you to control all the variables necessary for the perfect cup, from grinding the coffee beans to packing and tamping the filter basket. Some manual espresso maker combos come with a milk frother to add that signature frothy top. For machines that don't have a frother, you can still get a nice froth with a separate manual or automatic milk frother.
Thesemi-automatic model of espresso combination coffee maker is the most convenient. Users have to do a lot of work themselves such as filling the filter for filter coffee, pulling espresso and steaming milk. Even though it's more complicated, many customers prefer this type of machine because it offers a lot of control over the coffee, as well as a true barista experience .
Semi-automatic machines are also less expensive than the automatic and super-automatic models we'll discuss later. Those new to coffee or espresso may be intimidated by seeing the many buttons and gauges, but after a quick learning curve, it will be easy to create coffee worthy drinks right at home.
Thefeatures of this type of espresso combo coffee maker are unfortunately sometimes quite vague. It is natural to assume that an espresso combo coffee maker labeled "automatic" would perform every step of the process for you. In reality, automatic machines are very similar to semi-automatic. For both, users must grind and brew the coffee by hand.
The main difference is that automatic machines stop the flow of stops on their own when the coffee is ready. This is only a slight upgrade from semi-automatic models, but it makes the brewing process much easier. These are often priced similarly to semi-automatic machines or are a bit more expensive.
Super-automaticis the next level of combination espresso coffee maker. Virtually every aspect of the brewing process is controlled by the machine . Although features vary, a super-automatic espresso combo coffee maker usually has a built-in grinder to start your coffee with fresh beans. Then, all you have to do is press a button on the machine's digital display and it can create a number of drinks in seconds.
Super-automatic models will often even make steamed milk for you. So you can sip a latte or cappuccino without having to worry about espresso filters or frothing wands. Sometimes you can adjust a number of details such as water temperature, coffee strength and drink size.
Favored by traditionalists, manual espresso machine combinations (also known as piston machines) are the original way to make an espresso or coffee. They are piston-driven and require the user to pump a lever to generate the pressure needed to make a shot. Using one of these machines requires precision and concentration on the part of the brewer, but it can be very rewarding to make your own shot. Yet they are no longer very common, even in coffee shops.
Proponents of the manual method argue that once perfected, a manual espresso combo coffee maker will give you the best espresso or coffee because you control every part of the brewing process. You grind the beans, cup them, operate the lever, etc., giving you undeniable and complete control. Many fans also point out that these machines have a more unique and classic look, which makes them aesthetically appealing. Opponents of manual machines find the method cumbersome and exhausting, complaining that manual labor does not produce results visible enough to be worth the effort.
When it comes to automatic brewing, there are a few different subcategories. Overall, the main difference between these machines and manual machines is the lack of pumping action by the barista. There are classic automatic coffee maker espresso combos with which you can simply press a button and the machine will pull out a coffee or espresso pod for you. You will probably still have to grind and pack your beans, but the machine will take care of the actual brewing once you start it.
Super-automatic espresso machine combos are the models above the automatic machines. They can usually grind and pack your beans for you. They also have a lot of programmable options that give you control over the brewing, but not as much as a manual or semi-automatic model. Finally, there are the semi-automatic models that combine the best of manual and fully automatic. They are quite similar to fully automatic machines, except that you can decide when to stop brewing.
In our opinion, the semi-automatic espresso machine combination is the most versatile and convenient for most people. With a high quality semi-automatic machine, you can combine the personalized flexibility of a manual machine with the ease and convenience of an automatic machine. So, with these perfect pairings of machines, you can get the best espresso or coffee.
Let's start with the obvious. With an espresso maker combo, you can make both classic coffee, espressos and be your own barista. You can enjoy a great cup of filter coffee and save time while getting your fix in seconds.
Customization and total control are features that have become commonplace on most modern coffee machines or espresso makers, but it's even more impressive on a combination espresso maker. The ability to choose the texture, concentration and temperature for different types of coffee drinks allows you to create a diverse menu.
It's quick and easy to make your morning cup of espresso with a great espresso maker combo. With a hassle-free machine, you preheat, grind your beans, cup your pods and steam your milk. No matter what your skill level, you'll make the perfect espresso or coffee.
No more coffee pods or ground coffee that has lost its punch. Now you can buy coffee beans from Kenya to Colombia to Vietnam and grind them in your own kitchen with your espresso maker combo. Grinding the coffee releases fresh, amazing flavors.
With your own espresso combo coffee maker, you have the freedom to explore all your options. You can use the exact amount of crema you like (or no crema at all) in your drink. You'll also have the freedom to mix and match flavors. Try different coffee beans and grind them the way you like.
In our opinion, the best brands of combined espresso coffee maker in 2022 are :
This is a trusted 100-year-old brand that makes more than just espresso combos. Its products are more expensive, especially compared to other popular brands like Keurig and Nespresso, but the quality more than makes up for the initial cost. Customers interested in automatic and super-automatic machines should check out the 2200 series and the 3200 LatteGo. Philips also owns the Saeco brand, which itself makes a number of high-end espresso machine combinations.
De'Longhi's coffee maker espresso combos bring delicious barista-quality coffee drinks right into your own kitchen, no matter your budget or how involved you want to be in the brewing process. If your current coffeemaker is underperforming or doesn't match your taste in fine coffee, it may be time to upgrade to a De'Longhi manual automatic or super-automatic machine.
Italian manufacturer Bialetti offers a number of espresso coffee maker combos, but we're focusing on the company specifically because of its most popular and revolutionary model, the Moka Express. It stands out from other espresso maker combos because it makes a blend between filter coffee and espresso.
With its iconic K-Cups, Keurig is a brand that enjoys an excellent reputation that can already be found in many households. The company is primarily known for fast filter coffee, but they also make a small number of espresso combo coffee makers. The main advantage of the Keurig models? It's the ease of use. As a bonus, its products tend to be more affordable than competitors in this category.
Nespresso has long been known for its high-quality espresso machines. The Swiss company was founded in 1986 and for many years, espresso was its main focus. That changed in 2014 when Nespresso launched its coffee maker combination espressos, designed to make coffee in multiple sizes in addition to its classic espresso. The brand often adds and drops different models, but between its Vertuo and Original machines, there are still plenty of options to choose from.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Think about the main use
Do you primarily want an espresso machine that will also dispense an occasional latte, or do you generally prefer coffee and only want a shot of espresso every now and then? Focus on how you plan to use your machine the most and make sure it works great on that front.
Pods or ground coffee
Pod or capsule machines are undeniably convenient and the cleanup reduced to almost nothing. On the other hand, the amount of plastic used is ruinous to the environment and you won't really be able to give your own opinion on the brewing process. There is no right or wrong answer here, just the right answer for you.
Pay attention to the dimensions
While the purpose of most espresso combo coffee makers is to save space, some are significantly larger than others. As with any small appliance, first make sure you have enough counter space. If you plan to store your machine between uses, make sure you have enough storage space.
Consider the actual efficiency of the machine
If you only have a cup every once in a while, it doesn't make too much difference. But if you're an espresso and coffee enthusiast, you'll need to make sure the espresso combo coffee maker will work well. Examine the pump and comb through many user reviews to see if the machine will be powerful and durable enough to meet your needs.
Always grind fresh coffee beans
If you want to grind coffee with your espresso combo coffee maker, use "fresh" beans, ideally 4 to 14 days without roasting and store them properly. Definitely do not put your coffee beans in the refrigerator or freezer.
The proper routine for maintaining a combination espresso coffee maker is similar to that of a standard coffee or espresso machine. Both machines require regular descaling which is a more thorough and rigorous process than normal hand washing. Some machines have a light sensor that alerts users when it is time to clean. Others may even have an automatic cleaning feature that eliminates the hassle altogether.
The main factor that leads to mineral build-up is the type of water you use. Hard water contains a large amount of dissolved minerals, especially calcium and magnesium, which will naturally lead to a more rapid build-up of minerals in your machine. Soft or filtered water, on the other hand, is much less loaded with minerals and will reduce the frequency with which you need to descale your espresso maker combination. But keep in mind that minerals are also an important factor in the taste of your coffee and a moderate amount of minerals is still necessary for proper extraction.
The term "filter holder" often comes up when looking for an espresso maker combo, but it may not be familiar to those who have never owned a coffee or espresso machine before. A filter holder is simply the hand basket that attaches to the machine to allow for brewing. It is important to note that the quality of a filter holder affects the quality of the espresso and coffee.
There is no major difference between foaming and steaming milk. The former provides more aeration, while the latter still uses heat. The most important thing to understand is how espresso maker combos incorporate frothing/steaming capabilities. A frother/steamer comes in two forms. First, it can be built into the machine itself, usually in the form of a steam wand. Second, it can be a completely separate device included with your purchase, which is often the case with Keurig products.
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