Your guide to choosing the best coffee machine

The first step is working out which style of machine suits your mornings. Each type has its own perks, so it comes down to how much time and control you want over your brew. Discover our coffee machines, all at our famously low prices.

Capsule and pod coffee machines

Capsule and pod coffee machines are the simplest way to get a consistent cup. Just pop in a pod and press a button, and you've got coffee in under a minute, with barely any cleaning up. They're compact, quick and ideal for busy households or anyone new to home coffee. Keep a few coffee pods on hand in your favourite blends and you're always ready for a quick cup. A pod coffee machine is also a great pick if you want minimal fuss and maximum convenience.

Espresso coffee machines

If you love the ritual of making coffee, an espresso machine gives you full control over every cup. You tamp and pull your own shot, then froth your milk with the steam wand for a latte or cappuccino just like your local café. Look for a machine with around 15 bar of pressure for a rich shot with good crema. There's a little more to learn, but the reward is barista-quality coffee made exactly how you like it.

Automatic and bean-to-cup coffee machines

Want café-style coffee without the effort? An automatic coffee machine does the hard work for you. A bean-to-cup model grinds fresh beans and brews your coffee at the touch of a button, and many froth the milk too. It's the perfect middle ground if you want fresh, quality coffee but don't fancy doing it all by hand. These machines cost a little more up front, but they're a favourite with daily coffee drinkers who value convenience.

Drip and plunger coffee makers

For an easy, no-fuss brew, a coffee maker or plunger is hard to beat. Drip filter machines brew several cups at once, making them great for a household or for entertaining. A plunger, or French press, is simple to use and perfect for a relaxed weekend cup. Both let you enjoy smooth, full-flavoured coffee without any complicated steps.

How to choose a coffee machine

With so many options out there, picking the right coffee machine comes down to a few simple things. Here's what to weigh up before you buy.

• Your routine: think about how many coffees you make a day and how much time you like to spend making them. A capsule machine suits a quick weekday cup, while an espresso machine is made for those who enjoy the process.

• Milk drinks: if you love lattes and flat whites, look for a built-in steam wand or a separate milk frother so you can froth milk at home.

• Space and cleaning: check the size of the machine and the water tank so it fits your bench, and look for removable, dishwasher-safe parts that make cleaning quick.

Features worth looking for

Once you've settled on a type, a few features can take your daily cup to the next level.

A built-in grinder is a lovely touch: a coffee machine with grinder lets you use fresh beans for a richer flavour, with no separate gadget needed. Check the pressure rating too, as around 15 bar gives you a proper espresso with good crema. If you drink a lot of milky coffees, a built-in milk frother saves time, while a programmable timer means you can wake up to coffee ready and waiting. Finally, think about cup clearance and water tank size, so the machine fits your favourite mugs and your household. It's worth comparing these features so you end up with a machine you'll love using at incredibly low prices.

Hot tip: choose a machine with a removable water tank and drip tray, as it makes your daily clean-up quick and easy.

The extras that complete your coffee setup

The right accessories turn a good coffee into a barista-level one, right at home.

A standalone coffee grinder lets you grind fresh beans to your preferred coarseness, even if your machine doesn't have one built in. A milk frother is a must-have for silky lattes and frothy hot chocolates the kids will love, and a mug warmer keeps your cup toasty so your coffee stays hotter for longer. Don't forget a fast-boiling kettle for tea or a plunger brew, plus a set of mugs and cups to serve in style. Pour your iced coffee into our glassware, or take it with you in a reusable drink bottle for coffee on the run. Hot tip: store your beans in an airtight container away from light to keep them fresh for longer. Round out your coffee corner with the extras you love at low prices you'll love.

Match your machine to your morning

The best coffee machine is the one that fits how you actually live. So let’s break down the types of coffee machines that suit different morning routines.

For busy weekday mornings, a capsule coffee machine gets you out the door fast with minimal fuss. If your weekends are for slowing down, an espresso machine turns coffee-making into a relaxing ritual. Hosting friends or family? An automatic machine makes round after round without the wait. Pair your morning brew with a toaster for crumpets or a sandwich maker for a quick toastie, and breakfast is sorted. Hot tip: descale your machine every few months to keep your coffee tasting great and your machine running well.

Your morning coffee, sorted

A great coffee machine brings the café experience home, whatever your taste or skill level. Start by choosing the type that suits your routine, then add the features and extras that make each cup feel special. From quick capsule machines to hands-on espresso setups, you'll find everything you need in one place at famously low prices. Shop our full appliances range today and start brewing.