Best Coffee Machine for Homes in Australia
Coffee culture in Australia is renowned worldwide, characterised by a deep appreciation for quality and craftsmanship in every cup. In the heart of this culture lies the home espresso machine - a gateway to artisanal coffee experiences right in your own kitchen. From the bustling streets of Sydney to the serene coasts of Queensland, Australians are moving their love of coffee into their homes, seeking machines that blend convenience with performance.
This article dives into what is a good coffee machine for home, showcasing a selection that resonates with the diverse tastes and preferences of Australian coffee lovers. Whether you're a beginner taking your first sip into the espresso world or a seasoned aficionado seeking barista-level perfection, this guide aims to help you find the machine that best suits your journey.
As the demand for high-quality home-brewed coffee surges, the market has responded with an array of machines, each boasting unique features and capabilities. Navigating this landscape can be as complex as the coffee flavours themselves. From the sleek and simple pod machines, ideal for those craving quick and easy brews, to the sophisticated and feature-rich models designed for the hands-on barista, the options are endless.
This article meticulously reviews a selection of the best espresso machines available in Australia, including the Morning Pod Coffee Machine, Breville Barista Express, Gaggia Classic Evo Pro, and others. Each review offers an in-depth look at the machine's features, pros and cons, and suitability for different levels of coffee-making expertise, all presented in a fun and engaging tone to make your decision as enjoyable as your morning brew.
Morning Pod Coffee Machine
RRP $599
The Morning Pod Coffee Machine represents the perfect blend of convenience and quality in the realm of home pod espresso machines. Designed for coffee lovers who value speed and simplicity, this machine has quickly become a favourite in Australian households. It stands out for its user-friendly operation, making it an ideal choice for those who are new to the world of espresso, but aren't quite sure how they want to approach home brewing.
If you're curious how the Morning pod machine goes up against the Nespresso machines, click here.
Features
- Pod System: Utilises a simple and efficient coffee pod system and can take nespresso pods.
- Compact Design: Ideal for small kitchens or limited spaces.
- Fast Heat-up Time: Quick start for busy mornings and can be programmed and operated from the phone app.
- Built-in TDS Meter: Water calibration mechanism for optimal brewing.
- Variety of Flavours: Compatible with a wide range of pod flavours and brands.
- Community: One of the most interesting aspects of the Morning brand, is their community. Roasters have come together collectively to make their pods with specific recipes (i.e. temperatures and brew times) that sync up with the Morning coffee machine. That means you'll be able to enjoy the brew exactly how the roaster intended!
- Pressure Profiles: Meaning the coffee machine's algorithm produces the best pressures of water through the beans to create the best coffees.
- One-Touch Operation: Simplified controls and interactive screen for ease of use.
Suitability for Beginners
For those starting their coffee brewing journey, the Morning Pod Coffee Machine is a dream come true. Its one-touch operation removes the complexities often associated with espresso making.
Beginners will appreciate the fast heat-up time and the variety of flavours available through the pod system. These features ensure that even novices can make excellent coffee without prior experience. It's a good way for beginners to get their foot through the door when approaching the complexity of coffee brewing, but with the simplicity of having inbuilt options from the roaster.
Expert and Home User Opinions
Coffee connoisseurs and everyday users alike have praised the Morning Pod Coffee Machine. Experts laud its efficient design and the quality of espresso it produces, despite its simplicity. Home users love the convenience and the variety of coffee flavours at their fingertips.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extreme convenience and ease of use.
- Quick preparation time.
- Wide variety of coffee flavours and integration of a community aspect.
Cons:
- Limited control over brewing variables.
- Dependency on specific coffee pods.
Breville Barista Pro
RRP: $1,049
The Breville Barista Pro is an evolution in home coffee machines, blending intuitive technology with the art of coffee making. It's designed for those who appreciate the nuances of espresso brewing and seek a balance between automation and manual control. With its sleek design and advanced features, the Barista Pro is a standout choice for modern coffee enthusiasts.
What make the Barista Pro stand out amongst the Australian coffee community, is the convenience of having an in-built grinder. Breville have made brewing coffee from scratch incredibly simple, whilst still allowing some level of control over the coffee. Whats more is the affordability of this machine with a plethora of brew control in the comfort of your own home.
Features
- Integrated Conical Burr Grinder: Delivers optimal espresso grind.
- Intuitive LCD Interface: Provides real-time feedback on grinding and extraction.
- ThermoJet Heating System: Achieves the ideal extraction temperature in 3 seconds.
- 9 bar extraction via the 15 bar pump: which is the industry standard for espresso extractions.
- Precise Espresso Extraction: Digital temperature control (PID) ensures perfect espresso.
- Micro-Foam Milk Texturing: For barista-quality milk texturing and latte art.
- Customisable Settings: Allows adjustment of grind size, grind amount, and espresso strength.
- Large Water Tank: 2L capacity for less frequent refilling.
- Build Quality: Premium materials and sleek design.
Suitability for Beginners
The Barista Pro is an excellent choice for beginners who are keen on quickly learning the ropes of espresso making. Its intuitive LCD interface guides the user through the process, making it easy to understand and adjust settings. The ThermoJet heating system and precise espresso extraction technology allow beginners to achieve great results with minimal effort.
Expert and Home User Opinions
Coffee experts commend the Breville Barista Pro for its quick heat-up time and precise temperature control, which are key to a superior espresso. Home users praise its user-friendly interface and the quality of both the espresso and milk texturing, making it a favourite for daily use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fast heat-up time and precise temperature control.
- Intuitive interface, great for beginners.
- High-quality espresso and milk texturing.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to entry-level machines.
- Grinder noise level might be higher than expected.
Gaggia Classic Evo Pro
RRP: $999
The Gaggia Classic Evo Pro is a testament to Italian espresso machine craftsmanship, bringing a piece of coffee history into modern homes. This machine is designed for those who cherish the traditional espresso making process, offering a robust build and classic features with a few contemporary upgrades. It's an excellent bridge between old-world charm and new-world technology.
The Gaggia brand has long lineage within the world of espresso. The Classic Pro models date back over two decades.
Features
- Professional Group Head: For consistent temperature and aroma extraction.
- Steam Wand: froth milk like a pro, creating latte art fit for a cafè.
- Three Filters: For single shot, double shot, and pod-compatible brewing. Gaggia have also included a pressurised basket to increase the amount of crema in your espresso.
- 15 bar pump pressure: with 15 bars, you'll never have an issue with brewing an incredible espresso.
- Cup Warmer: To improve the brewing and tasting experience.
- Vibration Pump: Typical for home based machines, noisier than its' rotary counter part.
- Beginner Friendly Interface: with the number of options on the interface, you won't get confused or overwhelmed during the brewing process.
Suitability for Beginners
The Gaggia Classic Evo Pro is an exciting choice for beginners who are serious about learning the art of espresso making. Its semi-automatic nature requires some hands-on learning, which can be an enjoyable and educational experience for coffee enthusiasts. The professional group head and classic milk frother allow beginners to practice barista skills, while the temperature gauge and rapid heating make the process forgiving and enjoyable.
Expert and Home User Opinions
Coffee veterans appreciate the Gaggia Classic Evo Pro for its adherence to traditional espresso-making principles. Home users often commend its durability and the rich, consistent espresso it produces, reminiscent of Italian cafes. You'll find home users that have been using it for over a decade!
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Authentic espresso experience with professional components.
- Durable and long-lasting design.
- Suitable for a range of brewing preferences, including ESE pods.
Cons:
- Requires more manual effort and skill.
- May have a steeper learning curve for complete novices.
- Will require a separate purchase of a grinder or asking roasteries/cafes to grind the beans for them.
Flair 58
RRP: $999
The Flair 58 stands out in the world of home espresso machines with its strikingly manual and minimalist approach. This lever espresso maker is for those who want to be intimately involved in every step of their espresso brewing process. It's a machine that combines artistic design with functional prowess, offering a unique, hands-on coffee-making experience.
Features
- Manual Lever Operation: Full control over the extraction process and allows for mechanical pre-infusion.
- No Electricity Required: despite not requiring anything but hot water, the 58 has a heating device in the grouphead with 3 different temperature settings when plugged in. This allows you to brew optimally for light, medium and dark roasted coffees.
- 58mm Professional Portafilter: Commercial standard for optimal extraction.
- Pressure Gauge: Allows for precise control over extraction pressure.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials for longevity.
- Compact and Stylish Design: Aesthetically pleasing and space-saving.
- Customisable Pressure Profile: Tailor your espresso shot to your preference.
Suitability for Beginners
The Flair 58 is an intriguing choice for beginners who are passionate about learning the art and science of espresso. It requires a more hands-on approach, which can be a delightful and educational journey for those interested in the intricacies of espresso making.
The manual lever and pressure gauge offer a tangible way to understand and control the extraction process, making it a rewarding experience for newcomers who are eager to delve deeper into espresso brewing.
However, with manual lever machines, they require a finer grind to create an excellent espresso. This means extra cost needs to be considered for a premium coffee grinder. Furthermore, the learning curve for a beginner would be much longer than with a semi-automatic coffee machine.
Expert and Home User Opinions
Espresso purists and manual brewing enthusiasts often rave about the Flair 58. Its ability to produce exceptionally high-quality espresso shots, coupled with the satisfaction of manually pulling a shot, makes it a favourite among those who appreciate the craft of espresso making. Home users love its compact design, the eco-friendly aspect of not requiring electricity, and the unparalleled control it offers over every cup.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional control over the brewing process.
- Eco-friendly, requiring no electricity.
- Compact and beautifully designed.
Cons:
- More time-consuming and labor-intensive.
- Requires practice and skill to perfect.
- Will need to be paired up with a premium grinder for the ultimate home brewing experience.
La Pavoni Botticelli Specialty
RRP: $4,500
The La Pavoni Botticelli Specialty is a masterpiece of Italian design and engineering, embodying the essence of traditional espresso making with modern sophistication. This machine is for those who cherish the ritual of espresso brewing, offering a hands-on experience paired with state-of-the-art technology. It's a blend of artistry and precision, ideal for the connoisseur seeking both style and substance in their espresso journey.
Features
- Dual Boiler System: Separate boilers for coffee and steam, ensuring optimal temperature stability. This means being able to pull a shot of coffee and brew a coffee at the same time.
- E61 Group Head: Renowned for its temperature consistency and reliability.
- Twin PID Temperature Control: Precise control over brewing and milk steaming temperature, allowing for the optimal temp for all types of coffee bean roasts.
- Rotary Pump: Quiet operation and consistent pressure, meaning consistent flavour profiles.
- Professional Steam Wand: articulating professional steam wand for all ergonomics.
- Hot Water Outlet: Easy to pour water for your long blacks and teas.
- Pressure Profiling: Allows for customisation of the extraction pressure curve when pulling your shots.
Suitability for Beginners
While the La Pavoni Botticelli Specialty might seem intimidating at first, it's a fantastic machine for beginners who are serious about diving deep into the world of espresso. Due to the number of variables that can be controlled, it can be overwhelming for beginners. Its PID temperature control and dual boiler system simplify achieving consistent results. The E61 group head and pressure profiling provide a foundation for understanding and mastering espresso extraction, making it a rewarding choice for those ready to invest time and passion into their coffee brewing.
Expert and Home User Opinions
Experts in the field often praise the La Pavoni Botticelli Specialty for its exceptional build quality and the precision it brings to espresso brewing. Home users are enamored with its beautiful design and the superior quality of espresso it produces, often comparing it to professional machines in cafes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior temperature stability and precision.
- Elegant design and robust construction.
- Advanced features for a tailored espresso experience.
Cons:
- Higher price point.
- May require a learning curve for complete beginners.
Rocket Appartamento
RRP: $3,499
The Rocket Appartamento is a compact espresso machine that doesn't compromise on quality, designed for espresso enthusiasts with limited space. It brings the renowned Rocket engineering and design into a smaller package, perfect for urban dwellings. With its striking aesthetics and top-notch performance, the Appartamento is a favourite among those who want a balance of style, size, and espresso quality.
Features
- Heat Exchange Boiler: Allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming.
- Vibratory Pump: Reliable and efficient extraction performance.
- Compact Design: Ideal for small kitchen spaces.
- E61 Group Head: Maintains stable temperature for consistent extraction.
- No Burn Steam Wand: User-friendly and safe.
- Pressure Gauge: Monitors boiler pressure.
- Hot Water Outlet: For the times you need to make tea or long blacks.
- Removable Water Tank: 2.25L capacity for convenient refilling.
Suitability for Beginners
For beginners, the Rocket Appartamento offers a fantastic blend of simplicity and capability. Its heat exchange boiler and E61 group head provide a solid foundation for producing excellent espresso, while the user-friendly features like the no-burn steam wand make it approachable for newcomers. It's an ideal machine for those who want to start with a high-quality, yet manageable espresso maker.
Expert and Home User Opinions
The Rocket Appartamento is frequently praised by coffee experts for its build quality and consistent performance. Home users love its compact size, which fits well in smaller kitchens, without sacrificing the quality of their espresso. Its stylish design is also a common highlight, making it a beautiful addition to any home.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact and perfect for small spaces.
- Consistent espresso quality with E61 group head.
- Stylish design and robust build.
- Good step up from entry level coffee machines.
Cons:
- Vibratory pump can be noisier than rotary models.
- Limited by the size of its water tank and drip tray.
La Marzocco Linea Mini
RRP: $8,499
The La Marzocco Mini is like having a miniature version of a professional café espresso machine in your home. Designed as a scaled-down version of La Marzocco's commercial models, this machine is for those who desire the pinnacle of espresso performance in a domestic size. It's a statement piece for serious coffee enthusiasts, offering unparalleled quality and control.
Features
- Dual Boiler System: Ensures optimal temperature for espresso extraction and steam.
- Integrated Group Head: Commercial-grade stability and heat retention.
- Rotary Pump: for consistent temperature and pressure control to brew.
- PID Temperature Control: Precise control over the brewing temperature.
- Pre-Infusion Functionality: Enhances flavour extraction.
- Brew Paddle: For simple and ergonomical brewing control.
- Pro Touch Steam Wand: High performance, yet cool to the touch.
- Barista Lights: Illuminate the extraction area.
- Customisable Color Options: Tailor the machine to your style.
Suitability for Beginners
The La Marzocco Mini, while on the higher end of the spectrum, is surprisingly accessible for beginners who are serious about their espresso, if you can afford the hefty price tag. Its dual boiler system and PID temperature control simplify achieving professional-level espresso at home. The pre-infusion functionality and pro touch steam wand add to its user-friendliness, making it a desirable choice for beginners willing to invest in their coffee passion.
Expert and Home User Opinions
Experts often regard the La Marzocco Mini as one of the best home espresso machines on the market, praising its commercial-grade components and exceptional espresso quality. Home users are thrilled by the ability to have café-quality espresso at their fingertips, appreciating the craftsmanship and the level of control it offers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Professional-grade espresso quality.
- Excellent temperature stability and control.
- Customizable aesthetics to suit personal tastes.
Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Larger footprint than other home models.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the Australian market for home espresso machines offers a wide range of options, each catering to different preferences and skill levels. From the convenient and straightforward Morning Pod Coffee Machine to the professional-grade La Marzocco Mini, there's a machine for every coffee enthusiast.
Whether you're a beginner starting your coffee journey or an experienced barista looking to recreate the café experience at home, choosing the right espresso machine is about balancing your needs, space, and budget. Each of the machines we've explored brings something unique to the table and is unique to everyones journey, ensuring that the art of brewing the perfect espresso can be enjoyed by everyone.
The world of home espresso is rich and varied, and these machines are your gateway to exploring it. So, go ahead, pick the one that resonates with your coffee soul, and embark on a journey of flavor, craftsmanship, and joy.
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