Coffee Machines

The main types of Coffee Machines are Automatic, Manual, Drip Filter and Pod or Capsule Coffee Machines.

Automatic Coffee Machines are a great choice for quick and hassle free coffee every day. They do everything: grinding dosing and tamping the beans, frothing the milk and being able to produce all kinds of different beverages at the touch of a button or on the screen. Some models have the grinder visible while for others it is concealed. There are also Semi-Automatic Coffee Machines which give some manual control.

Capsule Coffee Machines are also automatic and simple to use, just needing the coffee pod or capsule dropped in the slot with the machine piercing it to run hot water through and produce a shot of coffee. These Pod Coffee Machines are small and lightweight to easily place in smaller spaces inside the Kitchen or a caravan.

Drip Filtered Coffee Machines produce larger volumes of coffee by filtering hot water through coffee grounds and filter paper. Manual Coffee Machines require a bit more knowledge and practice but will allow complete control over the coffee using fresh beans, but keep in mind some models require a grinder which are sold separately.

Coffee machines prepare espressos, flat whites, lattes, cappuccinos and more depending on capabilities. Add ice cubes for iced coffee or blend with ice and ice cream for frappuccinos. Serve espresso over ice cream for affogato desserts. Many machines prepare hot chocolates, needing only an espresso shot added for mochas.

Common drinks to make:

• Espresso-based: Short black, long black, macchiato, ristretto

• Milk-based: Flat white, latte, cappuccino, piccolo

• Cold options: Iced coffee, cold brew (drip filter models)

• Specialty drinks: Affogato, mocha, hot chocolate

Milky coffee favourites require either built-in milk frothing or separate frother attachments. Automatic machines typically offer pre-programmed recipes for popular drinks. Manual machines provide flexibility to adjust strength, temperature and milk texture to personal taste. Consider browsing gifts for coffee lovers for accessories that expand drink-making capabilities.

Regular cleaning after every use prevents intensive maintenance later and extends machine longevity. Wipe and purge the steam wand after each use to prevent milk cooking onto surfaces, which causes blockages and bacteria growth. Some models purge automatically whilst others require manual cleaning with a damp cloth.

Maintenance schedule:

• After each use: Clean steam wand, wipe exterior, empty drip tray

• Daily: Remove and rinse milk containers on automatic machines

• Weekly: Clean brew group on manual machines, descale water tank

• Monthly: Full descale using manufacturer-recommended solution

Descaling at least once per month kills germs and prevents mineral deposits building up inside. This removes scale build-up so coffee tastes as it should. Coffee machine accessories include descaling solutions and cleaning tablets. Following the user manual's cleaning instructions ensures the machine runs efficiently for years.

The best machine for you depends on the coffee experience you’re after. For barista quality coffee, make sure to use only freshly ground coffee from the best coffee beans with either a Manual or Automatic Coffee Machine for velvety coffee and milk, and even a bit of latte art for the creatives. Capsule Coffee Machines are a great alternative for a quick caffeine fix without the fuss, just pop in a capsule and go. Models like Nespresso's Coffee Machines are popular for compact designs and quickness in pumping out a full bodied espresso.

Manual machines with dual boilers like selected Breville Coffee Machines brew coffee and steam milk simultaneously, saving prep time for each. Consider the heat up time for any machine, Pod Coffee Machines are generally the fastest here.

Double spouted options such as Smeg's Coffee Machines allow brewing of two cups of espresso at once. If you're considering a Capsule Coffee Machine, make sure the Coffee Pods and Capsules planned to be used are compatible. Buying capsules is a little more expensive in the long run than Coffee Beans or Ground Coffee and can be more wasteful depending on whether they're recycleable.

Machine dimensions affect bench space requirements and portability. Capsule models typically measure 20-30cm wide, fitting easily in smaller kitchens. Automatic machines with built-in grinders range from 25-45cm wide depending on features. Height varies from 30cm for compact pod systems up to 45cm for full-featured automatic models.

Size considerations include:

• Bench depth: Most require 30-40cm depth for proper ventilation

• Cup clearance: Check height under spout accommodates travel mugs

• Water tank position: Side-access tanks save depth versus rear-access

• Drip tray capacity: Larger trays reduce emptying frequency

Those seeking cheap coffee machines often prioritise compact capsule models that balance affordability with space efficiency.

Finding the right coffee machine brand all comes down to matching the brewing tech to your lifestyle and needs. Whether you love the sleek Italian design of Smeg or the precision engineering of Breville, going with a trusted name means long-term reliability and great-tasting coffee.

• Nespresso coffee machines: Compact, mess-free and perfect for busy mornings when you need your caffeine fix fast.

• Breville: Café-quality espresso at home with PID temperature control and professional-grade steam wands for silky milk texturing.

• DeLonghi: Something for everyone, from simple entry-level espresso makers to fully automatic bean-to-cup systems.

• Sunbeam: A reliable Aussie favourite with great value across manual and automatic models.

Other brands worth considering:

• JURA: Premium Swiss engineering with one-touch automatics built for serious coffee lovers.

• Smeg: Iconic retro Italian styling that looks as good as the coffee tastes.

• Philips: Intuitive touchscreens and ceramic grinders that keep your beans fresher for longer.

• Ninja: Versatile multi-function brewing, affordable pricing, and raving reviews.

For more inspiration, check out our guide to the top selling coffee machines in Australia to see what's trending.

Thinking about a capsule machine? Make sure you check coffee pod and capsule compatibility before you buy. Keep in mind that capsules cost more long-term than beans and vary in recyclability. Our Nespresso coffee machine range guide breaks down the differences to help you find your perfect match.