What to look for
- Look for SCA certification, which means the machine brews at the right temperature and time.
- A thermal carafe keeps coffee hot without scorching it on a hot plate.
- Programmable timers help if you want coffee ready when you wake up.
- Pods cost much more per cup than ground coffee over a year.
How much to spend
Typical prices run from £44 to £329. Budget models cover the basics; spending more usually buys café-quality filter coffee for decades. Only pay for features you will use.
Who should skip what
- Skip the Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select if you want programmable timers or a budget machine
- Skip the Sage the Precision Brewer Thermal SDC450 if you want a simple, cheap machine for a big morning jug
- Skip the Russell Hobbs Buckingham Filter if you want café-quality flavour; the Moccamaster or Sage brew better
- Skip the Nescafé Dolce Gusto Mini Me by De’Longhi if you drink coffee daily; capsules cost far more per cup than ground coffee or beans
Buying tips
Coffee makers are popular Prime Day and Black Friday deals. Compare the warranty length, since premium machines often include longer coverage, and check that replacement carafes are available.
Our picks
See all our best coffee makers in the uk for more options.
Recommended products
Best overallTechnivorm · Filter Coffee Machines
Technivorm Moccamaster KBGV Select
Excellent coffee for decades.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Coffee lovers
- Typical price
- £279–£329
Pros
- Brews at the right temperature every time
- Handmade and repairable
Cons
- Expensive
Best valueSage · Filter Coffee Machines
Sage the Precision Brewer Thermal SDC450
SCA certified with a thermal carafe.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Filter coffee fans
- Typical price
- £229–£279
Pros
- Adjustable temperature and bloom
- Thermal carafe keeps coffee hot
Cons
- Expensive
Best budgetRussell Hobbs · Filter Coffee Machines
Russell Hobbs Buckingham Filter Coffee Machine 20680
Big pots for less.
- Verdict
- Buy
- Best for
- Budget and big jugs
- Typical price
- £44–£59
Pros
- Low price
- Programmable timer
Cons
- Hot plate can stew coffee
Frequently asked questions
Is the Moccamaster worth it?
If you drink filter coffee every day, yes. It brews consistently, is repairable and carries a five-year warranty, so the cost spreads over many years.
Are pod coffee makers worth it?
They are convenient, but pods cost several times more per cup than ground coffee. Heavy coffee drinkers save money with a drip machine.
How often should I descale my coffee maker?
Every one to three months, depending on your water hardness. Hard water needs more frequent descaling.