How to Buy: a coffee machine
Retail advice to help you buy better
Walk into any shop that sells coffee machines and you’ll find rows of different models with different prices, features and promises. It’s easy to assume the most expensive one is the best, but after 24 years working in retail, I’ve learnt that’s not always true.
The best coffee machine isn’t necessarily the one with the longest list of features or the highest price tag. It’s the one that fits how you actually drink coffee.
1. Start with how you drink coffee
Before looking at brands, ask yourself:
- Do I want the convenience of pods?
- Would I prefer freshly ground beans?
- Do I mainly drink espresso, lattes or cappuccinos?
- Will I make coffee for one person or the whole family?
- Do I enjoy experimenting with different drinks?
- How much time do I want to put into making each drink?
- How much space have I got?
- How many coffees do you drink a day or how often will the machine get used throughout the day?
Once you’ve answered those questions, you’ll naturally narrow down your options and it will give you an idea of what type of budget you need to have.
2. Only pay for features you’ll actually use
For example:
- Automatic milk frother
- Iced coffee function
- Adjustable coffee strength
- Built-in grinder
- Large water tank
- Multiple user profiles
- Touchscreen controls
If you’ll use them every day, they’re worth paying for. If not, they can quickly become expensive extras.
3. Think beyond the purchase price
Owning a coffee machine comes with a few ongoing costs.
You may need:
- Coffee beans or pods
- Descaler and cleaning products
- Water filters
- Milk system cleaner
- Mugs, glasses or travel cups
- Syrups, milk jugs or bean storage
These are not reasons to avoid buying a coffee machine, they’re simply worth factoring into your thinking before you buy.
4. Buy for the future, not just today
Before you make your decision, ask yourself:
- Do I have enough worktop space?
- Will this suit my morning routine?
- Will I still enjoy using it in a year’s time?
- Is it easy to clean?
- Can I easily buy replacement filters or parts?
These are the questions that often matter more than the specifications on the box.
My retail rule
After 24 years working in retail, I’ve learnt that good shopping isn’t about spending less.
It’s about choosing something that suits your lifestyle, understanding what ownership looks like, and buying something you’ll still love using years from now.
That’s what I call After Value. Thinking beyond the moment you buy and focusing on everything that comes afterwards.
If you’re looking for recommendations, I’ve linked my favourite coffee machines, accessories and maintenance products below. Hopefully they’ll help you build a coffee setup you’ll enjoy for years to come
