Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly ground coffee and enjoying a barista-quality cappuccino without leaving your kitchen. That’s the magic of a fully automatic bean-to-cup coffee machine (aka super-automatic bean-to-cup coffee machines). These sophisticated machines grind, tamp, brew, and even froth milk, all with the push of a button.
Navigating the world of bean-to-cup machines can be overwhelming. But fear not, coffee aficionado! We’ve curated this guide to the 7 best super-automatic models in the UK, complete with in-depth reviews, pros, cons, and FAQs to help you find your perfect coffee companion.
What is a Fully Automatic Bean-to-Cup Coffee Machine?
A fully automatic bean-to-cup coffee machine or super-automatic bean-to-cup coffee machine is the epitome of coffee convenience. It streamlines the entire process, from bean to cup. Simply add fresh beans and water, and let the machine work its magic – grinding, tamping, brewing, and even frothing milk for those delightful lattes and cappuccinos.
A Personal Note:
As a coffee enthusiast, I confess to a personal fondness for semi-automatic espresso machines. The hands-on ritual of grinding, tamping, and pulling a shot holds a certain charm. However, I recognize that not everyone has the time or desire to master this art. Super-automatic machines offer a fantastic alternative, delivering exceptional coffee with remarkable ease.
Top 7 Fully Automatic Bean-to-Cup Coffee Machines in the UK:
| Model | Price | Key Features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gaggia Cadorna Prestige | View on Amazon | User-friendly touchscreen, ceramic grinder, automatic milk frothing | Those who value ease of use and a variety of drinks |
| Sage Oracle Touch | View on Amazon | Automatic tamping, milk texturing, touchscreen, custom coffee profiles | Serious coffee lovers seeking the ultimate experience |
| Siemens EQ.9 Plus Connect s500 | View on Amazon | Quiet operation, dual bean hopper, Home Connect app | Tech-savvy coffee drinkers who value convenience |
| Melitta Caffeo Barista TS Smart | View on Amazon | Wide range of coffee specialties, TFT color display, auto-cleaning | Families or households with diverse coffee preferences |
| Jura E8 | View on Amazon | Compact design, Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.), automatic milk frothing | Those who appreciate style and quality in a small package |
| De’Longhi Dinamica Plus ECAM370.95.T | View on Amazon | Wide range of drinks, adjustable settings, LatteCrema System | Those seeking a balance of features and value |
| Philips 3200 Series LatteGo | View on Amazon | LatteGo milk system, intuitive touch display, compact design | Those who prioritize ease of use and speed |
The List
1. Gaggia Cadorna Prestige:
The Gaggia Cadorna Prestige is a user-friendly powerhouse that delivers a wide variety of coffee shop-quality beverages at home. Its intuitive touchscreen interface makes navigating its 14 pre-programmed drink options a breeze, from classic espressos to creamy lattes. The integrated ceramic grinder ensures consistent grinding for optimal flavour extraction, while the automatic milk carafe froths milk to perfection with adjustable settings for temperature and texture.
Unique Point: The Cadorna Prestige boasts an impressive range of pre-programmed drinks, including less common options like ristretto, lungo, and flat white, catering to diverse tastes.
Pros:
- Easy to use with a touchscreen display
- Wide range of coffee options (14 pre-programmed)
- Automatic milk frothing with a carafe
- Ceramic grinder for consistent grinding
- Relatively compact design
Cons:
- Limited customization options compared to some models
- Some users find the milk carafe a bit bulky
2. Sage Oracle Touch:
The Sage Oracle Touch is the pinnacle of super-automatic coffee machines, offering an unparalleled level of automation and customization. This top-of-the-line model automates nearly every step of the coffee-making process, from automatic tamping and precise milk texturing to grinding and brewing. Its color touchscreen allows you to create and save custom coffee profiles, ensuring your ideal cup every time. It even offers automatic pre-infusion, a feature usually found in high-end espresso machines, for optimal flavour extraction.
Unique Point: The Oracle Touch combines the convenience of a super-automatic with the advanced features and customization of a professional espresso machine, making it a true barista-at-home experience.
Pros:
- Ultimate convenience with automation
- Customizable coffee profiles
- Touchscreen interface for easy navigation
- High-quality milk frothing with adjustable settings
- Excellent build quality
- Automatic pre-infusion for optimal flavour
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Takes up significant counter space
3. Siemens EQ.9 Plus Connect s500:
The Siemens EQ.9 Plus Connect s500 seamlessly blends sleek design with cutting-edge technology. Its dual bean hopper allows you to use two different types of beans, catering to various preferences. The Home Connect app enables remote control and personalized coffee settings, allowing you to start your brew from your smartphone. Beyond its quiet operation, the EQ.9 Plus Connect s500 stands out with its iAroma System, which precisely controls grinding, water temperature, and brewing pressure for optimal flavour.
Unique Point: The iAroma System ensures consistent, high-quality coffee extraction with every cup, while the Home Connect app adds a layer of convenience and personalization.
Pros:
- Quiet operation
- Dual bean hopper for variety
- Home Connect app for remote control and personalization
- Sleek and modern design
- High-quality coffee extraction with iAroma System
Cons:
- High price point
- Some users find the app interface complex
4. Melitta Caffeo Barista TS Smart:
The Melitta Caffeo Barista TS Smart is a coffee lover’s paradise, offering a vast selection of 18 pre-programmed coffee specialties, from classic espresso to trendy cortado, all accessible through its TFT color display. The “My Coffee Memory” function allows you to save up to 8 personalized coffee profiles, catering to multiple users with different preferences. Its automatic cleaning system simplifies maintenance, making it a hassle-free option for busy households.
Unique Point: The “My Coffee Memory” function provides a high level of personalization for multiple users, while the wide range of coffee specialties caters to diverse tastes.
Pros:
- Wide variety of coffee specialties (18 pre-programmed)
- User-friendly TFT display
- Automatic cleaning system for easy maintenance
- “My Coffee Memory” for personalized profiles
- Relatively compact footprint
Cons:
- Milk frothing quality is not as good as some other models
- Can be noisy during grinding
5. Jura E8:
The Jura E8 is a compact and stylish machine that prioritizes quality and ease of use. Its Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.) optimizes extraction time for full-bodied flavour, extracting the maximum aroma from your coffee beans. The E8 also features an automatic milk frothing system with fine-tuning options for milk temperature and texture, allowing you to create perfect cappuccinos and lattes. Its minimalist design and compact footprint make it ideal for smaller kitchens.
Unique Point: The Jura E8 excels in delivering a consistently high-quality espresso with rich flavour, thanks to its P.E.P. technology.
Pros:
- Compact and stylish design
- Pulse Extraction Process for optimal flavour
- Automatic milk frothing with adjustable settings
- User-friendly interface
- Relatively quiet operation
Cons:
- Smaller water tank capacity
- Limited customization options compared to some models
6. De’Longhi Dinamica Plus ECAM370.95.T:
The De’Longhi Dinamica Plus ECAM370.95.T strikes a great balance between features and affordability. It boasts a wide range of drink options, including espresso, lungo, cappuccino, and latte macchiato, all accessible through its user-friendly interface. The Dinamica Plus features De’Longhi’s LatteCrema System for dense, long-lasting milk foam, perfect for latte art enthusiasts. It also offers adjustable settings for coffee strength, aroma, and temperature, allowing you to personalize your brew.
Unique Point: The Dinamica Plus provides a good balance of automated convenience and customization options at a mid-range price point, making it a versatile choice for coffee lovers.
Pros:
- Wide range of drink options
- LatteCrema System for excellent milk froth
- Adjustable settings for personalized coffee
- User-friendly interface
- Relatively compact design
Cons:
- Grinder can be a bit noisy
7. Philips 3200 Series LatteGo:
The Philips 3200 Series LatteGo is designed for speed and simplicity. It features the innovative LatteGo milk system, which froths milk quickly and efficiently with a simple two-part design that’s incredibly easy to clean. The intuitive touch display allows you to select your desired drink with ease. With its compact design and fast operation, the Philips 3200 Series LatteGo is perfect for those who want a quick and hassle-free coffee experience.
Unique Point: The LatteGo milk system is incredibly easy to use and clean which makes it a standout feature for busy coffee lovers who value convenience.
Pros:
- Fast and efficient operation
- LatteGo milk system for easy frothing and cleaning
- Intuitive touch display
- Compact design
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Milk froth may not be as dense as some other models
FAQ
A: The “best” machine depends on your individual needs and preferences. If ease of use is paramount, the Gaggia Cadorna Prestige is a great choice. For those with diverse tastes, the Melitta Caffeo Barista TS Smart offers the most variety. For tech-savvy users, the Siemens EQ.9 Plus Connect s500 is a great option. If you value speed and simplicity, the Philips 3200 Series LatteGo is a good choice. For those seeking a balance of features and value, the De’Longhi Dinamica Plus is a solid option.
A: Regular cleaning is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. You should:
1. Empty the drip tray and coffee grounds container daily.
2. Clean the milk frothing system after each use.
3. Descale the machine every 2-3 months, or more frequently if you live in a hard water area.
4. Deep clean the brewing unit monthly.
Refer to your machine’s manual for specific cleaning instructions.
A: Freshly roasted, high-quality Arabica beans are generally recommended for the best flavour. Experiment with different roasts and origins to discover your favourites. You can also try different blends or single-origin beans to explore the nuances of coffee flavour.
A: Absolutely, if you value convenience, fresh coffee, and a wide range of coffee options. Fully automatic bean-to-cup machines save you time and effort while delivering delicious, café-quality coffee at home. They are also a great investment for coffee lovers who want to explore different coffee styles and flavours.
A: Most fully automatic bean-to-cup machines have a bypass doser for using pre-ground coffee, but it’s generally recommended to use fresh beans for the best flavour. Freshly ground coffee retains its aroma and flavour better than pre-ground coffee, resulting in a more satisfying cup.
Conclusion
A fully automatic bean-to-cup coffee machine elevates your daily coffee ritual. Whether you’re a busy professional, a coffee connoisseur, or simply someone who appreciates a delicious cup, there’s a perfect machine for you. Consider your budget, desired features, and coffee preferences, and use our guide to find your ideal bean-to-cup companion.
Have you tried any of these fully automatic bean-to-cup machines? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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