Independent coffee guides

Buy the right coffee gear the first time.

Clear guides to espresso machines, coffee makers and grinders — matched to how you actually drink coffee, with the trade-offs to research before you spend.

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Espresso preparation
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Breville Bambino Plus

Espresso for your everyday routine

The shortlist

The shortlist, if you only read one thing.

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A place for every kind of coffee.

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How we choose

Better choices.
Better coffee.

Find clear explanations of brewing methods, equipment and the choices that shape your daily cup.

Read our methodology →
  1. 01

    Start with the reader’s needs

    Match the question, workflow and budget before narrowing the options.

  2. 02

    Explain the details

    Explain features, brewing methods and the practical differences between your options.

  3. 03

    Make the next step useful

    Connect the guide to practical advice and relevant buying options. Retailers provide current prices and availability.

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The Coffee Types

Coffee

Explore coffee brewing methods and equipment, and find your next guide.

Coffee processing varies: the International Coffee Organization describes natural processing, where whole cherries are dried, and washed processing, which removes the fruit before drying. These are examples rather than one universal production method.

Cappuccino

A cappuccino combines espresso with steamed and frothed milk. The illy preparation guide describes brewing espresso and frothing milk; additions such as cinnamon or chocolate are optional.

Explore cappuccino, milk drinks and preparation tips.

Espresso

The development of espresso machines spans several designs. Bezzera records Luigi Bezzera’s 1901 patent as a milestone; this does not establish a single invention date for every form of espresso.

Explore the espresso hub for equipment and brewing introductions.

Further reading: ICO processing report, illy cappuccino preparation, Bezzera patent history.

Put your reading into practice

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