All coffee makers use only ground coffee. Despite the general principle of operation - processing coffee powder with water or steam, the design and purpose of the devices are noticeably different
Natural coffee goes on sale in two forms - powder and beans. True connoisseurs, as a rule, are against ready-made ground coffee, since the powder quickly loses its aroma, and it is much easier to counterfeit than grain. However, this form of the product is very convenient, especially for coffee machines, and not for making a drink in a Turk. But the difference between a geyser coffee maker and a drip coffee maker is described in great detail in this article.
Main types of coffee makers
There are 4 types of devices that differ in design. Depending on the variety, the price varies greatly. The most commonly used coffee makers are:
- carob;
- drip;
- geyser;
- capsule
To compare different solutions, it is necessary to analyze in detail the features of preparing the drink of each of them. There are certain nuances that can significantly influence the choice of a coffee maker that will be ideal in a particular case.
Carob coffee makers
Quite easy-to-use devices in which the drink is prepared by passing hot water through a horn filled with ground coffee. This option differs in the following aspects:
- The horn can be either plastic or metal. The first option is much cheaper, but the second is more durable and the quality of the drink is higher, since the metal heats the liquid even better.
- The power of the devices varies, ideally it should be from 1000 to 1700 W. At the same time, the pressure is also important - in the pump 15, and in the horn at least 9 bar.
- Many models have a cappuccino maker for those who like this option.
- Due to the safety valve, when increased pressure forms, it is relieved.
- Good models have a system of indicators that tell you what problems have arisen.
- The coffee consumption is quite high, but the quality of the drink is high.
By the way!
To ensure strong aroma and develop flavor, it is best to preheat the cup as well.
Drip coffee makers
A simple device that will cost an order of magnitude cheaper than its analogues and will allow you to prepare about a liter of drink at a time, which is convenient. The main features are:
- The filter is made in the shape of a cone; ground coffee is poured into it. During the preparation process, hot water passes through this element, which flows into the flask in the form of finished coffee.
- It is important that the equipment has the ability to adjust the strength - the slower the steam passes, the better the quality of the drink.
- Coffee pots can be glass (the most common), metal or in the form of a thermos, preserving the temperature for a long time.
- After cooking, when the water runs out, the equipment switches to heating mode to maintain a constant temperature.
By the way!
It is better to choose models with a “drop-stop” function. In them, you can stop the brewing cycle for 1-2 minutes and pour the drink accumulated in the coffee pot into cups, after which the process will continue.
Inexpensive coffee makers
The cheapest types of coffee machines are capsule and geyser. When choosing, be sure to pay attention to the power and material of the filter. It can be paper (disposable), fabric, nylon (no more than 60 brews) and gold (reusable). The last option is the most expensive and will last longer than the others.
So, those who want to save money on a coffee maker without sacrificing quality will be attracted to the following models:
- Bosch TKA 3A014.
You might be interested in: Serving utensils for serving coffee
Drip coffee maker made in Germany. The device is quite compact: dimensions 33x17x24 cm, weight 1.5 kg, volume 1.25 liters. Prepares ground coffee in 5 minutes, yielding up to ten cups. Power 1100 W. Additional functions - only heating before cooking. The Bosch TKA 3A014 has a paper filter. The design of the coffee maker is laconic and is available in two colors - red and white. One of the disadvantages is the plastic case and short cable: its length does not exceed a meter, which is not very practical. The price of the model is 2000-2500 rubles.
- Moulinex BCA 1.L1 Little Solea.
It’s also a drip coffee maker from a French manufacturer, but, unlike the previous one, it has a permanent filter; you can also use a disposable paper one. In one sitting, Moulinex BCA 1.L1 can prepare 4-5 cups of coffee and keeps the drink hot for a long time. There is an anti-drip mechanism and a preheating function. The great advantage is the almost silent operation. The cord length is 1 m and 15 cm. You can purchase the coffee maker in black or beige, so the device will fit perfectly into the interior of any kitchen. Buying Moulinex BCA 1.L1 will cost no more than 2000-3000 rubles.
- Bialetti "Moka Crystal".
And this is a geyser coffee maker from an Italian brand. The compact model is available in three colors: red, white and grey. You can brew 4 standard cups of an invigorating drink at the same time. Bialetti “Moka Crystal” is designed for preparing coffee on electric and gas stoves. The advantage of this model is the body material: the bottom is made of aluminum, the top is made of transparent glass. The disadvantage can be considered the small volume: only 240 ml, while the manufacturer believes that this is enough for 4-6 servings. The price of this coffee maker is 3000-4000 rubles.
These are some of the best coffee makers in the budget price segment. Simple, no-frills devices will quickly and efficiently accomplish their task—brew a cup of strong, aromatic coffee.
Geyser coffee makers
They work due to the steam pressure that passes through the ground coffee during the preparation process. The design always has 2 containers - for water and the finished product. The main features are:
- The equipment can be either electric or for use on a stove. The principle is the same - water from the lower container moves to the upper one in the form of steam and turns into an aromatic drink.
- When preparing coffee, it is important not to compact it so that the steam can flow properly. The best quality is ensured only when using medium grind beans.
- Equipment is most often designed for a certain number of cups. It is made of steel, aluminum or ceramics.
- The configuration of the handle is important - it should be located away from the body to prevent burns.
By the way!
Electric models are much more convenient, since after the water runs out, they automatically turn off.
Expensive coffee machines: the best on the market
- Saeco Xsmall HD8747/09.
Very compact automatic coffee machine. It features a stylish design and a sleek silver chrome body. The power of this device is 1400 W, the volume of the boiling water tank is 1 liter, which allows you to brew 8 cups of excellent coffee at once. There is a push-button control panel, backlight, automatic descaling, an automatic shutdown system (works after an hour) and simultaneous preparation of two mugs of coffee. The set includes a ceramic coffee grinder. One of the pleasant advantages of Saeco Xsmall HD8747/09 is its price: despite the premium quality, it corresponds to models in the mid-price segment. You can buy a coffee machine in Russia for 18,000-19,000 rubles.
- Siemens TE 706209 RW
Elite coffee machine made in Germany. The device brews excellent coffee: latte, cappuccino, espresso and a large number of other drinks, including a unique recipe for coffee with milk. The parameters and functions of this unit will satisfy the most demanding coffee lovers: electronic control with LCD display and additional sensors; automatic cleaning of scale and plaque; adjusting the thickness and strength of coffee, as well as the degree of grinding of beans in the built-in coffee grinder.
And this is not a complete list of operations that the Siemens TE 706209 RW model is capable of performing. The power is 1700 W, the tank volume is 2.1 liters. This miracle of technology has one drawback - the price. Anyone wishing to purchase a coffee machine in Russia will have to part with at least 40,000 rubles.
A coffee maker or coffee machine will take up space in the kitchen for a reason: it will give its owner and his guests an invigorating drink in a matter of minutes. Every coffee lover will be able to purchase a quality unit based on their preferences and capabilities.
Capsule coffee makers (coffee machines)
The most modern solution, the coffee maker works on ready-made capsules - plastic containers with coffee that are inserted before preparing the drink, which is very convenient. The main features are:
- The quality of coffee depends on the equipment manufacturer. Moreover, the configuration of the capsules may differ from one manufacturer to another and you cannot use options from other brands.
- Cooking takes a little time. To avoid adding water frequently, the tank capacity should be about a liter.
- The equipment is easy to clean, since the capsule just needs to be thrown away, no plaque or dirt is formed.
- Many models are equipped with additional features and safety systems to simplify use.
Using this option regularly is much more expensive, since you have to constantly buy capsules. But in terms of simplicity and ease of use, this variety outperforms the rest.
Rating of the best coffee makers for ground coffee
For convenience, the rating presents models of each type. All of them have been tested by users and have earned many positive reviews. The easiest way is to order from online stores, since the solutions considered are not available for sale in all cities.
You should start with horn models, here you can highlight the following options:
- De'Longhi ECP 33.21. Reliable equipment from an Italian brand will cost about 10,000 rubles. Works with both ground coffee and pods; the set includes 3 types of filters per holder. The pressure of 15 bar ensures excellent coffee quality. A manual cappuccino maker with a metal pannarello nozzle makes dense foam. The drip tray is double, it can be removed, which allows you to place even tall containers (up to 13 cm). Also a plus is the ability to prepare two cups at the same time. The warranty is 2 years.
- Gaggia Viva Style. One of the best models for today, the price of which is about 15,000 rubles. Due to the hermetically sealed filter, the quality of espresso is excellent; there is also a manual cappuccino machine for whipping foam. The set includes a filter for loose coffee and an option in pods. The equipment is reliable and has a stylish appearance and is easy to use.
- Garlyn L70. A model from a Russian brand will cost approximately 16,000 rubles. This is a modern device that looks stylish and allows you to prepare different types of drinks, while adjusting the serving size. The kit includes several filters, the performance indicators are decent, it is also worth noting a large water tank with a capacity of 1.4 liters.
By the way!
If you register on the Garlyn website within 3 months of purchasing your coffee maker, the standard 12 month warranty will be doubled.
There are a lot of drip models, but the following models performed best:
- Philips HD7457 Daily Collection. For only 3300 rubles. You can purchase reliable equipment from a world-famous manufacturer. Due to the 1.2 liter capacity, you get a lot of coffee at one time. There are water level and power indicators, automatic heating, and an anti-drip system. All components, except the thermal jug, can be washed in the dishwasher.
- Braun KF 47. At a price of 3,500 rubles. This is an excellent solution with a stylish appearance and a convenient shape of the kettle. A simple, no-frills model that makes good coffee and is equipped with auto-heating and a shut-off function. Removable units can be washed in the dishwasher. The model is durable, the warranty is 2 years.
- Melitta Optima Glass Timer. At a price of 6500 rubles. will provide the maximum possible range of functions for this class of equipment. Cooking starts on a timer at any time, and there is a programmable automatic shut-off function. There are 4 water hardness settings so that the equipment automatically suggests when to decalcify.
Geyser models allow you to make coffee with a specific taste, which has many fans. We can recommend the following models:
- Rommelsbacher EKO 376/G. At a price of about 10,000 rubles. The equipment is distinguished by reliability, as there are automatic shutdown systems, protection against boiling over and overheating. The jug capacity is 300 ml, it is convenient due to the heat-protected handle. The model is easy to use and makes good espresso.
- De'Longhi EMK 9 Alicia. It will cost approximately 13,500 rubles. and many people think the price is too high. The equipment is reliable and durable, while the dimensions are compact and the coffee maker can be transported. The 350 ml kettle rotates in any direction and has a heating function for half an hour. The warranty is 2 years.
Capsule coffee makers are more convenient due to the use of ready-made elements, and the equipment is easier to clean. The best solutions for today are:
- Nespresso C30 Essenza Mini. A compact model that will cost only 5,000 rubles. and at the same time ensure the preparation of high-quality drinks of various types. You can adjust the serving volume, there are water level indicators, and there is a removable tray for collecting drops. A reliable solution that is very easy to use.
- De'Longhi Nespresso Latissima Touch EN 550. Priced at about 20,000 rubles. The model perfectly prepares not only standard types of drinks, but also cappuccino, in which you can adjust the thickness of the foam. A total of 20 types of coffee are available for preparing, the controls are simple and intuitive, there is a compartment for used capsules. It is also worth noting the convenient function of cleaning the container into which milk is poured.
- Krups Dolce Gusto KP 1301/1305/1308 Lumio. It costs about 6,000 rubles, the model has an extravagant design and is suitable for lovers of unusual solutions. At the same time, it can make more than 20 types of drinks, both hot and cold. The water container capacity is 1 liter, which allows you to rarely top it up. The system is quite easy to clean; everything you need is included.
By the way!
When choosing, it is worth checking whether there is a service center for a particular brand in the region, so that in case of problems you do not have to send the equipment to another city.
Which coffee makers are suitable
As a matter of fact, all coffee makers and coffee machines, without exception, “work” only with ground beans – with the exception of capsule ones. The only difference between machines for grain and powder is that in the first models the coffee grinder is built-in and is one of the options. In the second case, they either grind the coffee themselves - which is better - or pour ready-made powder into the receiver. In any case, we are talking about ground coffee beans, not instant.
When brewed, ground coffee gives off its aroma and taste to water or steam. Moreover, the higher the water temperature and steam pressure, the more fully the powder releases nutrients.
You may also be interested in information about how drip coffee makers differ from carob coffee makers and which coffee makers are best for home use.
A French press is a cylindrical glass coffee pot with a piston and a strainer. The powder is poured onto the bottom, filled with water, then the piston is slowly lowered down to press the coffee grounds to the bottom.
The video shows the parameters for choosing a coffee maker:
Features of the French Press
- coffee is prepared manually, timers, shutdown, etc. are not provided here;
- the taste of the drink is a cross between a coffee drink from a drip machine and coffee prepared in a Turk;
- This model has the most affordable price and allows you to make coffee in any conditions - as long as there is hot water.
Drip or filtration. The principle of operation is the simplest: water in a container reaches 100 C and drops dropwise onto a filter with powder. Water flows through the coffee layer and accumulates in the receiving flask.
But what are the best geyser electric coffee makers and how to use them, the information at the link will help you understand.
Features of the device:
- The coffee maker is equipped with a glass or plastic receiving vessel. Plastic is cheaper, but over time it provides a specific taste. Rarely, metal tanks are found;
A glass flask is the best way to collect the brewed drink. - filter - can be metal, nylon or paper. The metal one does not need to be changed, but provides some flavor. Nylon is designed for 60 cups, after which it should be replaced, paper is disposable;
- “drop-stop” system – allows you to remove the receiving flask even while making coffee, pour out the resulting drink and install it back. No coffee will be served for about 2 minutes;
- volume - usually 1 liter, but there are also mini and maxi models with a two-liter flask;
- the power of the product affects the speed of preparation of the drink, and not its strength;
- The strength, alas, is not adjustable. In addition, the faster the water passes through the filter, the weaker the coffee.
The product obtained in a drip coffee maker is not called a coffee drink for nothing. This is only an approximation to the taste of real coffee. However, it can be drunk in fairly large quantities, since its effect is weaker than well-brewed tea.
It is worth learning more about how effective the bialetti geyser coffee maker is for induction cookers.
Geyser - manual and electric. Here, the water first turns into steam and then passes through the coffee filter, absorbing the aroma and nutrients. This makes the drink much more tasty. The coffee is ready when all the poured liquid is in the top flask.
Model features
- the volume of the flask may vary, but is usually the standard 1.25 liters;
- It is worth making sure that the power of the device, if it is an electric coffee maker, matches the volume of the drink;
- The device can also be used to produce other drinks - tea, for example;
- The model should be washed after each use, which is not very convenient: there are a lot of parts.
Carob machines - this type of coffee maker supplies steam under pressure, which allows the substances from the ground grain to be extracted more fully and the drink prepared faster. They got their name from the device for coffee powder: in the form of a plastic or metal cone, which is installed in the device to obtain a cup of drink.
But what electric coffee grinders are and how to use them are described in great detail in the article at the link.
The video shows a description of the carob coffee maker:
Types of machines
There are 2 main types of machines for the home: boiler and pump.
Boiler rooms - water is heated in a special tank, and then, under a pressure of 5-9 bar, is supplied to a horn with ground coffee. The powder releases caffeine and other nutrients into the liquid. It is believed that such models retain the aroma to a lesser extent than pump-action models.
Features of the boiler coffee maker:
- You can prepare only 1, maximum 2 servings at once - these are the capabilities of the filter;
- As a rule, the horn is made with different metal filters for classic black coffee and espresso with foam - cream coffee;
- The coffee maker may include a strength regulator. This refers to the possible volume that goes into preparing one cup;
- There may be additional options - a cappuccino maker, for example;
- Maintenance of the device is extremely simple: the horn is washed after each preparation, and the remaining parts - a water tank, a tray, as needed. During intensive use, the device itself is cleaned once a month: several cycles of preparing coffee without powder are carried out.
You should also pay attention to what the Bosch electric coffee grinder looks like and how it is used.
Here's a video of what a boiler coffee maker looks like:
Pump-action is the best option for fans of real espresso, cappuccino, latte and other drinks. The principle of operation is the same as that of the boiler, but the steam is supplied to the horn at a pressure of up to 15 bar, which ensures complete extraction of aromatic oils and nutrients from the coffee. But what kind of electric home coffee grinder with millstones there is and how it is used is described in detail here.
A more efficient way to make coffee. which will help preserve the amazing taste of the drink
In addition to all the benefits of the boiler room, the following are added:
- the temperature of the water in the pump reaches 95 C. No matter how small the difference, it has a positive effect on the taste of the coffee;
- The pump device is characterized by the highest cost - this is its main drawback. Therefore, such models, as a rule, have many additional functions: a cappuccino maker, a cup warmer, a built-in coffee grinder, horns with different filters, and even special ones that allow the use of coffee tablets;
- The strength of the coffee is regulated - both due to the amount of water, and due to the intensity of processing, and due to the supply of the required volume of powder;
- The coffee machine has considerable size and weight. This is worth considering.
Capsule coffee makers are preferred for fans of automated preparation. Strictly speaking, the device does not belong to machines for coffee powder, since its “raw materials” are ready-made tablets - capsules. The latter, in addition to their own ground grain, may contain sugar, dry cream, milk powder, and various flavoring additives.
An excellent option for preparing a ready-made delicious drink of any combination.
The remaining characteristics of the models vary widely, so the result can be close to either real espresso or a simple Americano with synthetic milk. The features of the device are:
- Full automation of cooking, which is very convenient when time is short;
- the dimensions of the model are minimal, the weight is low;
- the device does not require cleaning or maintenance;
- Each manufacturer produces “its own” capsules for its car. Tablets are not interchangeable, which ties the consumer to a specific brand;
- The power of the devices can be very different. A good drink is obtained from coffee machines that provide a pressure of 15 bar.
But which manual coffee grinders are best to use, and how the right choice is made, is indicated in great detail here.
Turkish coffee machine - electric turk. Coffee, spices, sugar are poured into the Turk and water is added. Then the flask is placed on a stand and the drink is brewed. It is ready after 2-3 minutes. You can read more about the electric coffee Turk in the article.
Model features:
- the device turns off automatically, so there is no need to ensure that the drink does not escape;
- the device is very small and does not take up space;
- true fans of Turkish coffee rarely use such models.
The video shows how the electric turret works:
An induction coffee maker is actually a regular geyser model, but made of ferromagnetic alloys so that it can be used on an induction stove. It is equipped with special filters and containers for cold, clean water.
Induction coffee maker for ground coffee is only used on induction hob
Different machines and different drinks require different grinding powders. So, Turkish coffee requires the finest grind, while drip coffee requires the coarsest grind. Espresso machines require only special grinding powder - for espresso.
You might be interested in learning how to properly use a manual coffee grinder with ceramic burrs.
How to choose a coffee maker for your home
To initially determine which option will be optimal for a particular situation, you need to take into account a few simple recommendations. First of all, you should pay attention to the following aspects:
- Drink preferences. If you need specific types of coffee and have clear requirements for quality and richness, choosing a model will not be difficult. Some people require ideal quality, while others do not see the difference between coffee from a cheap coffee maker and a top-end coffee machine.
- Amount of coffee consumed per day. If you need to do a lot, you should give preference to options with high productivity, short cooking cycles and a large water container.
- Planned budget. The cost varies widely, so it is better to base it on real possibilities. But at the same time, you should not get carried away with saving too much and buy models of dubious quality from unknown brands.
- Dimensions. There are both compact and fairly large options, so it is best to plan the location in advance and evaluate which sizes will be optimal.
By the way!
It is better to give preference to products from well-known companies; when comparing, it is also worth considering the warranty period; the longer it is, the better.
Advantages and disadvantages of coffee makers
It is worth examining the general aspects regarding devices of different types. If we consider the advantages, the main ones are:
- Easy to brew coffee. You need to pour the composition or insert a capsule and turn on the equipment.
- Possibility of preparing different types of drinks. You can make coffee at home no worse than in a cafe.
- Consistent quality. Automation always does everything right and cannot spoil your favorite drink.
- Possibility of turning on a timer to wake up to the smell of aromatic coffee.
- Heated for long-term drinking.
All types of coffee makers for ground coffee for home have certain disadvantages that must be taken into account:
- Coffee consumption is much higher than with conventional preparation, especially if capsules are used.
- The equipment needs to be looked after; washing some models can take a lot of time.
- Electricity consumption also increases noticeably with frequent cooking.
- Cheap models do not prepare a drink of the highest quality.
Different types of coffee machines for home have their pros and cons, but in general we can say that this equipment simplifies life and allows you to enjoy a flavorful drink every day. The main thing is to choose a model with suitable characteristics and good reviews from those who are already using it.