How to get the best deal on coffee machines

Looking to get yourself a deal on an espresso coffee machine? Inspired to buy one for the coffee lover in your life this Christmas? With café prices climbing to over $5 for a flat white across much of Australia and cost of living pressures mounting, buying yourself a quality coffee machine can make financial sense—but only if you choose wisely.

Before you start browsing hundreds of coffee machines, you need to know whether you want a manual, automatic or capsule coffee machine.

When you’re browsing coffee machines, don't let massive discounts cloud your judgement. Here's what to consider:

1. Check the regular prices and percentage off

Research the regular pricing of the model you’ve got your eye on to make sure any sale price is as special as it seems. Appliances Online displays the RRP of every coffee machine, as well as the percentage discount being offered on that price.

It also price matches during Boxing Day, EOFY and Black Friday sale events, so if you happen to see a Breville Barista Touch or De'Longhi La Specialista Arte for a few dollars less at another approved retailer, you can ask for a price match. That way you’ll get the best price and still enjoy free delivery* (often next day).

2. Read the reviews

If a coffee machine with a 50% discount has poor customer ratings, it isn't a bargain. Look for models with high star ratings and solid reviews, particularly regarding:

• Reliability

• Ease of cleaning

• Steam wand performance (if lattes or cappuccinos are your thing)

• Grinder quality (if included)

3. Watch stock levels

Popular models can sell out quickly during sales - especially smaller and entry level ones that make great Christmas gifts.

If you've done your research and spot a good deal, don't wait too long, because those retro-style Smeg and compact Sunbeam machines might not be back in stock at those prices anytime soon.

Appliances Online displays a message about stock availability in the details for every coffee machine, including when there are only a few items left in stock.

If you’re comparing different manual or automatic coffee machines, certain features justify a higher price tag:

• Built-in grinders: Many higher-end machines from brands like Breville and Jura include quality burr grinders, saving you from buying a separate coffee grinder.

• Built-in milk frother: A milk frother or steam wand is essential for making lattes and cappuccinos. While you can buy separate milk frothers, that’s another expense to factor in, so a built-in one is a bonus. Some models from brands like Breville and De'Longhi have automatic milk texturing systems that give you café-quality microfoam.

• Higher quality materials: Look for stainless steel components, especially in the boiler and steam wand/milk frother. They'll last longer than plastic parts and maintain better temperature stability.

• Temperature control: Precise temperature settings help get the best flavour from your coffee beans. Look for machines with PID temperature control – it's a feature that was once only found in commercial machines but is now available in home models like the Breville Barista Touch.

• Programmable settings: Some espresso machines let you save your preferred coffee settings for shot timing, temperature and milk texture. This means that different family members can save their preferred settings so they can make their unique perfect cup every time.

• Longer warranty: Most coffee machines come with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, but some higher-end brands like NEFF and Swiss-made V-ZUG have longer warranties of up to 5 and even 10 years on their built-in models.

Added some coffee machine options to your wishlist? From espresso makers to air fryers, we deliver our huge range of small kitchen appliances to 95% of Australians with Appliances Online's legendary FREE delivery - and we can usually get it to you by the next day (Mon-Fri) when it's in stock.

If you need some more pointers on choosing the right coffee machine, call our friendly team 24/7 on 1300 000 500 or message us via the chat icon at the bottom of your screen.