Espresso Machine Buying Guide: Which Coffee Machine Is Best for You?
A great espresso starts with the right grind, god coffee and consistent extraction. The espresso machine you choose plays an important role, particularly when it comes to flavour, temperature control, espresso creme and creating silky steamed milk. With so many different coffee machines available, understanding the differences can make choosing the right one much easier.
The Cooks Professional Espresso Machine Range includes four models, offering different levels of control, convenience and functionality. Our premium Digital Display Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine features a dual-boiler system and integrated grinder, while our single-boiler Bean-to-Cup, Compact and Retro Espresso Machines provide alternatives for different budgets and coffee preferences.
This Espresso Machine Buying Guide compares all four models, explaining the features that matter and helping you find the best espresso machine best suited to your home.
Which Cooks Professional Espresso Machine Is Best?
| Espresso machine | Price | Pressure | Built-in grinder | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Display Bean-to-Cup Dual Boiler | (TBC) | 20 bar | Yes | Premium home coffee experience |
| Bean-to-Cup Single Boiler | £349.99 | 20 bar | Yes | Coffee enthusiasts seeking excellent value |
| Compact Espresso Machine | £99.99 | 20 bar | No | Smaller kitchens and everyday coffee |
| Retro Espresso Machine | £89.99 | 15 bar | No | Beginners and design-conscious kitchens |
Our top recommendation: The Digital Display Dual-Boiler Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine is the most advanced model in the range, offering the convenience of an integrated grinder alongside the flexibility to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously.
1. Digital Display Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine
Our most premium espresso machine for coffee enthusiasts. The Cooks Professional Digital Display Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine brings together a 20-bar pump, integrated conical burr grinder, digital display and dual-boiler system.
Its built-in grinder features 25 grind settings, allowing you to adjust the grind to suit different coffee beans and extraction preferences. Grind time can also be adjusted in increments of 0.1 seconds, giving you precise control over the amount of coffee dispensed.
The main advantage of this model is its dual-boiler construction. With separate heating systems for brewing and steaming, you can extract espresso and steam milk at the same time. This is particularly useful when preparing multiple cappuccinos, flat whites or lattes. The digital display provides a modern interface for operating the machine, while single and double espresso shot options offer flexibility for different serving preferences.
Why Choose the Digital Bean-to-Cup Machine?
- Dual-boiler system for simultaneous espresso brewing and milk steaming.
- Integrated conical burr grinder with 25 settings.
- Grind-time adjustments in 0.1-second increments.
- 20-bar pump.
- Digital display.
- Single and double espresso shot options.
Our verdict: This is the strongest choice in the Cooks Professional range for customers seeking a premium, versatile espresso machine. The dual-boiler system offers a meaningful advantage over single-boiler machines, particularly when preparing several coffees.
2. Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine
The Cooks Professional Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine offers excellent control over coffee preparation at a more accessible price than our premium digital model. Its integrated conical burr grinder provides 25 grind settings, allowing you to fine-tune your coffee grind for different beans and brewing preferences. Grind time can be adjusted to 0.1-second increments, helping you achieve consistent coffee doses. Unlike our Compact 20-Bar, this machine features an Italian pump, providing high-pressure & high-quality water delivery.
The machine also features a professional 58mm portafilter and single-wall filter baskets. A manual, micro-foam steam wand allows you to prepare textured milk for cappuccinos, lattes and flat whites, and even produce coffee art with a bit of practice. With a generous 2.6-litre water tank, it's a practical choice for households that make coffee regularly.
Why Choose the Single-Boiler Bean-to-Cup Machine?
- Integrated conical burr grinder with 25 settings.
- Precise grind-time adjustments.
- 20-bar Italian pump.
- 58mm portafilter with single-wall baskets.
- Adjustable brewing parameters.
- Manual steam wand.
- Large 2.6L water tank.
So what's the Difference Between the Two Bean-to-Cup Machines? The main difference is the display and boiler systems. The single-boiler model uses one heating system for espresso brewing and milk steaming. This means the machine needs to change temperature between the two functions, making coffee preparation a little more time consuming. The premium digital model on the other hand features separate boilers, allowing both processes to take place simultaneously.
Our verdict: An excellent all-round espresso machine that offers many of the features home baristas value most. At £349.99, it's a compelling option for customers who want greater control over their coffee and fancy a crack at latte art.
3. Compact 20-Bar Espresso Machine
The Cooks Professional Compact Espresso Machine provides a straightforward way to prepare espresso and milk-based coffees at home. Its 20-bar pump and compact construction make it a practical choice for customers who want an espresso machine without the size or expense of a bean-to-cup model.
Unlike our two premium machines, the compact model doesn't feature an integrated grinder. It can be used with suitable pre-ground espresso coffee or beans ground separately. The machine includes a steam wand for heating and frothing milk, allowing you to prepare cappuccinos, lattes and other popular cafe drinks, with the ability to produce latte art. A 1-litre water tank provides capacity for everyday use with fairly regular refills, while single and double shot options allow you to choose your preferred espresso serving.
Why Choose the Compact Espresso Machine?
- 20-bar pump.
- Compact, worktop-friendly design.
- Steam wand for milk-based coffees.
- Single and double espresso shot options.
- 1L water tank.
- No integrated grinder required.
Our verdict: A practical espresso machine at an accessible price. It offers the essential features needed for quality homemade espresso without the complexity of a bean-to-cup setup.
4. Retro Espresso Machine
The Cooks Professional Retro Espresso Machine combines classic styling with everyday coffee-making functionality. Its 15-bar pump, manual steam wand and analogue temperature gauge make it a practical introduction to espresso preparation. The temperature gauge helps you monitor the machine's temperature range during brewing and steaming, while the removable 1.2-litre water tank makes refilling straightforward.
The Retro Espresso Machine doesn't include a built-in grinder, so you'll need suitable ground coffee. One of its biggest attractions is its appearance. Available in eight colourways, it offers more choice for customers who want their coffee machine to complement their kitchen.
Why Choose the Retro Espresso Machine?
- 15-bar pump.
- Classic retro design.
- Eight colourways.
- Manual steam wand.
- Analogue temperature gauge.
- Removable 1.2L water tank.
- Removable stainless steel drip tray.
Our verdict: A stylish, affordable espresso machine with the essential features for preparing espresso and milk-based coffees at home.
Bean-to-Cup vs Ground Coffee Espresso Machines
One of the most important decisions when buying an espresso machine is choosing between a machine with an integrated grinder and one that uses ground coffee.
What Are the Benefits of a Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine?
Bean-to-cup espresso machines allow you to grind fresh coffee beans immediately before brewing. Freshly ground coffee retains more of the volatile aromatic compounds released during grinding, helping you make the most of your chosen beans.
The Cooks Professional Bean-to-Cup models feature conical burr grinders with 25 settings, giving you control over grind size and extraction. They're particularly suitable for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with different beans and fine-tuning their espresso.
What Are the Benefits of a Ground Coffee Espresso Machine?
Espresso machines without integrated grinders are generally more affordable and can take up less worktop space. Our Compact and Retro Espresso Machines are ideal for customers who already own a grinder or prefer the convenience of pre-ground coffee.
For the best results, use coffee ground specifically for espresso and store it in an airtight container.
Single Boiler vs Dual Boiler Espresso Machines
The boiler system influences how an espresso machine heats water for brewing and milk steaming.
Single-Boiler Espresso Machines
A single-boiler machine uses one heating system for both functions. Espresso brewing and milk steaming require different temperatures, so the machine typically needs time to switch between them. Single-boiler machines are a practical choice for preparing one or two coffees at a time and are often more affordable.
Dual-Boiler Espresso Machines
A dual-boiler machine has separate heating systems for espresso extraction and milk steaming. This allows the machine to maintain the different temperatures required for each function. This means that you can both steam milk and pull an espresso shot simultaneously. The Cooks Professional Digital Display Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine can brew espresso and steam milk at the same time, reducing waiting time and making it easier to prepare several coffees at once.
Is a dual-boiler espresso machine worth it?
For regular coffee drinkers and early risers, a dual-boiler espresso machine can be a worthwhile upgrade. It offers greater flexibility, particularly when making milk-based drinks in a short space of time.
What Should You Look for When Buying an Espresso Machine?
1. Grinder Quality and Adjustability
A good coffee grinder helps produce consistent grounds for reliable espresso extraction. Our bean-to-cup machines feature conical burr grinders with 25 settings, providing greater flexibility when preparing different coffee beans.
2. Temperature Control
Consistent water temperature helps produce balanced espresso. Customers seeking greater control over brewing and steaming should consider the benefits of a dual-boiler machine.
3. Milk Steaming Performance
A steam wand is essential for preparing traditional milk-based espresso drinks. For customers who regularly make cappuccinos and lattes, the ability to steam milk while brewing espresso can be particularly useful.
4. Water Tank Capacity
A larger water tank reduces the frequency of refilling.
| Machine | Water tank capacity |
|---|---|
| Digital Bean-to-Cup Dual Boiler | TBC |
| Bean-to-Cup Single Boiler | 2.6L |
| Compact Espresso Machine | 1L |
| Retro Espresso Machine | 1.2L |
5. Budget and Long-Term Value
A higher-priced espresso machine can provide greater control, more convenient coffee preparation and additional functionality. Consider how frequently you'll use the machine and which features will make the biggest difference to your daily routine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Espresso Machines
What is the best espresso machine for home use?
The best home espresso machine depends on your budget and preferred coffee-making process. The Cooks Professional Digital Display Dual-Boiler Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine is our premium recommendation, combining an integrated grinder with simultaneous espresso brewing and milk steaming.
Is a bean-to-cup coffee machine worth buying?
A bean-to-cup espresso machine is a worthwhile choice for regular coffee drinkers who prefer freshly ground beans. An integrated grinder also removes the need to purchase a separate coffee grinder.
What's the difference between a single-boiler and dual-boiler coffee machine?
A single-boiler machine uses one heating system for brewing and steaming. A dual-boiler machine has separate heating systems, allowing both functions to operate simultaneously when the machine is designed to support it.
Is a 20-bar espresso machine better than a 15-bar machine?
Not necessarily. Maximum pump pressure isn't a direct measure of espresso quality. Grind size, brewing temperature, coffee dose and extraction time all influence the flavour and consistency of espresso.
Do you need a grinder for an espresso machine?
You need coffee ground to a suitable consistency for espresso. A bean-to-cup machine includes a grinder, while machines without one can use suitable pre-ground coffee or beans prepared using a separate grinder.
Can you make cappuccinos and lattes with an espresso machine?
Yes. Espresso machines with steam wands can be used to heat and texture milk for cappuccinos, lattes and flat whites. The Cooks Professional Digital Bean-to-Cup model also allows simultaneous brewing and steaming.
Which espresso machine is best for beginners?
The Cooks Professional Retro Espresso Machine is a good entry-level option thanks to its straightforward controls, 15-bar pump and steam wand. The Compact 20-Bar Espresso Machine is another practical choice for beginners.
What is the best espresso machine under £100?
The Cooks Professional Compact 20-Bar Espresso Machine costs £99.99 and offers a steam wand, single and double shot options and a 1L water tank. The Retro Espresso Machine is another affordable option, with prices varying by colourway.
How often should you clean an espresso machine?
Clean the portafilter, filter baskets, steam wand and drip tray regularly, following the instructions supplied with your machine. Descale according to the manufacturer's guidance and your local water hardness.
Which coffee machine is best for making multiple coffees?
A dual-boiler espresso machine is particularly useful for preparing several milk-based coffees because it can brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously. Our Digital Display Bean-to-Cup model offers this functionality.
Discover the Cooks Professional Espresso Machine Range
A good espresso machine should make preparing your favourite coffee enjoyable, consistent and convenient. Our Digital Display Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine is the premium choice for customers who want advanced functionality, precise grinding and greater flexibility when preparing milk-based coffees. The Single-Boiler Bean-to-Cup model offers excellent control at a lower price, while our Compact and Retro machines provide accessible options for everyday espresso.
Explore Cooks Professional Coffee Machines and find the right espresso machine for your kitchen.