Before you buy...

There's nothing wrong with a cup of instant, but when the alternative is a robust espresso with frothy milk and a teaspoon of demerara, we know what we'd rather have.

If you enjoy the occasional Starbucks but don't want to faff with grounds, choose a pod machine for your kitchen. Steaming water is forced through a pod of coffee that's been roasted, ground and sealed for freshness, creating a tasty drink with a thick crema. These little machines are simple to use, although you will be tied into the manufacturer's pod range, so research the types of drinks they offer before you buy.

Mid-price manual bar-pump models are made for the wannabe barista that likes experimenting with different blends and fancies a go at latte art (pouring the milk to create heart shapes and the like). Each one comes come with a manual portafilter (the bit that holds the coffee grounds) and a wand to texture your milk. Making coffee this way can be messy, but you'll get a deeper understanding of what makes a great cup o' Joe.

Bean-to-cup designs are the bee's knees of coffee makers, doing all the hard work for you and guaranteeing the freshest, fullest flavour. Pour your beans in at the top, select your preferred drink, and the machine will grind, brew and dispense your coffee — some will also froth your milk into the perfect creamy emulsion with none of the mess or fuss of using a frothing wand.

Chosen by Ideal Home