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Let’s face it, paying $5.50 for an almond milk latte is not sustainable anymore. With the cost of living looming over our wallets, we’re all looking for ways to save. Although, no one is willing to sacrifice the daily coffee, and we don’t blame you. But what if we encouraged you to get your daily caffeine fix for less? How? A coffee machine.
Making coffee at home has come a long way since the plunger and dreaded instant powder. Now, you can get a barista-quality cup at the push of a button. With that said, here are the best coffee machines on the market right now to fit every budget, from a simple pod to a barista-like system where you can froth your own milk.
Best Coffe Capsules/Pod Machines
Delonghi Citiz Capsule Coffe Machine, $329
Don’t have much space, much time, or much care? This coffee machine is for you. It’s compact to fit just about anywhere and it’s smart so you don’t need to do much. There is an integrated aeroccino for milk frothing, which reaches the perfect brewing temperature and is ready to use in just 25 seconds. Set your preferred coffee length, and the machine will automatically stop brewing thanks to a Flow Stop feature. If you’re somebody that forgets to turn off your appliances, don’t worry, it will automatically shut off nine minutes after the last brew.
Breville Creatista Pro Nespresso Coffee Machine, $999
If your budget allows for a more premium option, the Breville Creatista Pro Nespresso machine is the Maserati of pod machines. It’s sleek, with a glossy silver finish, so it can sit on the benchtop and still be stylish. As for the workings of it, expect a perfectly crafted cappuccino in just 75 seconds. The Thermojet heating system is a groundbreaking invention allowing simultaneous coffee extraction and automatic milk texturing while achieving a rapid three-second heat-up time. It’s a hefty price tag, but can you put a price on perfection?
Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Capsule Coffee Machine, $98
Need a reliable cheap coffee maker? Reach for a Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Capsule Coffee Machine. Designed specifically for black coffee enthusiasts, this Lavazza capsule coffee machine offers a sleek and compact design to your kitchen. While it may lack the bells and whistles, including milk-related functionalities, this budget-friendly option still guarantees a top-notch cup of espresso or lungo in a matter of moments. It’s an ideal solution for those seeking convenience and quality while maintaining a busy, on-the-go lifestyle.
Best Manual and Espresso Coffee Machines
Smeg Espresso Manual Coffee Machine, $432
Who doesn’t love a Smeg appliance? The pastel colours, the quality, the design — we can’t say a bad thing about them. The 50s-style espresso manual coffee machine is the perfect addition to your kitchen bench and a great introduction to making home barista-style coffee. Unlike other manual coffee machines, the Smeg is easy to use. There are three buttons, one for a single espresso, one for a double espresso, and one to start the steam function. It couldn’t be more simple. Thanks to the thermoblock heating system, your brew will always be at the right temperature, and a 15-bar pressure feature ensures a quality Italian espresso every time. There’s even a milk wand frother for cappuccinos.
Breville Oracle Touch, $3,799
For serious coffee drinkers who want to be known for their barista-style coffees when guests come over, consider the oracle touch. This next-generation espresso machine has an automated touchscreen operation, simplifying the grinding, brewing, and frothing processes. You can adjust the coffee strength, milk texture, and temperature. The best part, you can save up to eight personalised coffee preferences, so next time, all you need to do is click on your preference. You can swipe and select a long black latte, flat white, or cappuccino; you name it, the machine can do it. Although, with such magic and convenience comes an eye-watering price tag of $3,799. But, if you add it up, that’s about two and a half years of spending $6 on a daily coffee. That’s not even including the 3 pm pick-me-up cappuccino.
Related: 7 Creative Ways You Can Use Old Coffee Grounds
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