Which Coffee Machine Is Right for You?
Picking a coffee machine isn't really about the brand. It comes down to one thing: how hands-on do you want to be? Once you're clear on that, the shortlist sorts itself out pretty quickly. We've been helping Melbourne coffee drinkers make this call for over 35 years, so here's how we think about it.
The two paths: manual espresso or automatic bean-to-cup
Just about every machine we stock falls into one of two groups. Work out which one suits how you live, and you've done the hard part.
1. Manual (prosumer) espresso machines
With these you grind, dose, tamp and pull the shot yourself, then steam the milk by hand. It's the closest thing to a café setup at home, with full control over every shot and the ritual that goes with it. The trade-off is a bit of a learning curve and a separate grinder to go alongside the machine. The brands we back here are Gaggia for a first machine, and the premium makers Rocket Espresso (Italian) and ECM (German).
- Suits you if you enjoy the process, you're after latte art and proper café-quality espresso, and you want something that'll last for decades.
- Keep in mind you'll want a good grinder as well. With a manual machine the grinder matters just as much as the machine itself.
Not sure which of the two premium brands to go with? Have a read of Rocket vs ECM.
2. Automatic (bean-to-cup) machines
Press one button and the machine grinds, brews and froths the milk for you. This is Jura's world: Swiss-made automatics that are all about convenience and consistency, with barely any skill needed. Great for busy households, the office, or anyone who just wants a good coffee without the fuss.
- Suits you if you want a coffee at the push of a button, plenty of drink options, an easy time of it in a shared house or workplace, and not much cleaning up.
Leaning this way? Have a look at Which Jura is right for you?
Match it to your budget
Both paths cover a big range. Here's a rough guide (tap any machine for today's price):
| Budget | Manual espresso | Automatic (Jura) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry ($1,000 to $2,000) | Gaggia Classic | Jura C8, E8 |
| Mid ($3,000 to $5,000) | Rocket Appartamento or Giotto, ECM Mechanika | Jura J10 |
| Premium ($5,000+) | Rocket R58 or R NINE ONE, ECM Synchronika | Jura Z10, X10 |
With a manual machine, factor a grinder into your budget too, or just ask us about a machine and grinder package.
How quickly does it pay for itself?
A couple of café coffees a day adds up. Our Coffee Savings Calculator shows how fast a machine pays for itself compared with buying out. Most people are surprised how quick it is.
Open the Savings Calculator →The Beanery difference
Every machine we sell comes with free delivery, setup and a proper training session anywhere in Melbourne. We calibrate your grinder and show you how to pull a good shot and get your milk right, at no extra cost. We've been roasting coffee and servicing machines in Melbourne for over 35 years, and we look after what we sell.
Still weighing it up? Browse all coffee machines, or come and try them in person at our Brighton store.