By: Caffeinated Gear Review Team
Smart coffee machines represent the fascinating intersection of traditional brewing methods and modern technology.
As professional baristas and coffee experts, we’ve noticed growing interest in connected coffee makers that promise to revolutionise the morning coffee ritual.
But what exactly makes a coffee machine ‘smart’?
The term ‘smart’ in coffee machines encompasses a broad spectrum of technological features.
At its most basic level, any coffee maker with advanced programming capabilities could qualify as smart.
Consider the sophisticated bean-to-cup machines that handle everything from grinding to milk frothing with a single button press.
The Sage Oracle & Oracle touch exemplify this brilliantly, automating complex processes like dosing and tamping while delivering consistently outstanding results.
However, in today’s connected world, many coffee enthusiasts specifically seek machines with WiFi or smart home integration, offering control through Alexa, Google Home, or dedicated mobile apps.
Our extensive testing reveals that truly connected coffee machines remain somewhat limited in 2024.
While remote operation and maintenance alerts are useful features, the technology hasn’t yet reached its full potential.
We’re still waiting for the coffee machine that can rinse cups, refill water tanks, or manage bean hoppers autonomously.
That said, we’ve discovered several machines that demonstrate remarkable intelligence in their brewing capabilities, even without wireless connectivity.
During our countless hours of testing, we’ve learned that focusing solely on smart features might lead you away from the perfect coffee machine for your needs.
We recommend first identifying which type of coffee machine suits your brewing preferences, then exploring the smart options within that category.
Our comprehensive guide below breaks down each machine type, followed by our top smart recommendations based on extensive testing and real-world experience.
While these might seem at odds with the concept of smart coffee making, we’ve found creative ways to bring connectivity to even the most traditional machines.
The iconic La Pavoni Europiccola, with its distinctive lever-operated design, represents the pinnacle of manual espresso crafting.
For an in-depth look at these classic machines, see our detailed review:
While you won’t find built-in smart features on these traditional beauties, we’ve discovered excellent solutions for adding remote functionality.
Our testing shows that the ability to pre-heat your machine remotely is perhaps the most practical ‘smart’ feature any coffee maker can offer.
For coffee machines with traditional rocker switches, we’ve found a brilliant solution:
This affordable smart plug transforms traditional coffee machines into remotely operated brewing stations.
It works perfectly with classic machines like the La Pavoni series and the original pre-2009 Gaggia Classic, as well as the La Pavoni Europiccola.
For newer machines with different switch mechanisms, we’ve tested and approved this innovative solution:
This clever device has impressed our team with its versatility.
It attaches to virtually any button or switch, offering smartphone control and programmable timers.
We discovered this ingenious solution through our coffee community, and our testing confirms it’s a brilliant way to add smart functionality to almost any coffee machine.
While remote operation represents the current pinnacle of smart coffee machine features, we’re excited to see how this technology evolves.
Until someone invents a coffee machine that can handle water refills and cleaning autonomously (we’re still waiting!), these solutions offer practical ways to enhance your brewing routine with smart technology.
When our team examines the espresso machine market, one thing becomes crystal clear: semi-automatic machines dominate the landscape.
These workhorses of the coffee world have been the standard for decades, and with good reason.
At their heart, semi-automatic traditional espresso machines rely on an electric pump to generate the precise pressure needed for proper extraction.
Here’s how they work: you’ll use a separate grinder to prepare your coffee beans, filling the filter basket that sits snugly in your portafilter.
Once you’ve locked the portafilter into the group head, simply press the button to activate the pump and watch as your perfect shot of espresso streams out.
Nearly every semi-automatic machine comes equipped with a steam wand, essential for crafting everything from a velvety cappuccino to a silky flat white.
While any semi-automatic machine can become ‘smart-enabled’ through the addition of a smart plug or switch for remote operation, some machines take intelligence to the next level.
Our testing has revealed several standout models that offer genuine smart features, which we’ll explore in detail.
Plus, when paired with a smart plug, these machines become even more versatile, offering remote power control for added convenience.
In our extensive testing, we’ve found the Sage Bambino Plus (marketed as Breville outside Europe) strikes an impressive balance between accessibility and capability.
This compact powerhouse sits comfortably in the entry-level segment of Sage’s range, but don’t let that classification fool you.
What makes this machine truly special is its versatility.
Our testing revealed it’s equally suitable for aspiring home baristas and newcomers to the world of espresso making.
When using espresso machines as a home barista, you’ll work with traditional filter baskets and need a grinder capable of fine, precise adjustments.
The process involves careful ‘dialling in’ – primarily adjusting grind settings to achieve optimal extraction.
You’ll weigh both your coffee dose and the resulting espresso, following a learning curve that’s challenging but rewarding.
We’ve noticed a distinct difference between these professional-grade machines and their budget counterparts (typically priced between £100-£200).
The cheaper machines often advertise unnecessarily high pump pressures of 15 or even 19 bars and come equipped with pressurised baskets rather than standard ones.
The Bambino Plus, however, offers both standard and pressurised baskets (which Sage calls dual-walled).
This dual-basket system means you can choose your preferred brewing method.
While pressurised baskets work with pre-ground coffee, our experience shows that freshly ground beans always produce superior results, regardless of basket type.
Our blind taste tests revealed something fascinating: with proper technique, dual-walled baskets can produce espresso that nearly matches the quality of carefully dialled-in standard baskets.
This makes the Bambino Plus ideal for those unsure about diving deep into the home barista hobby – you can start simple and progress when ready.
Lightning-Fast 3-Second Heat-Up
Our tests confirmed the impressive 3-second heat-up time, practically eliminating the need for scheduled start times.
Just remember to run some water through the group head first to warm your equipment properly.
Intelligent Milk Texturing
Getting perfect milk texture is one of the trickiest skills to master.
The Bambino Plus removes this barrier with its automatic texturing system – simply fill the jug, position it over the temperature sensor, and the machine handles the rest to your chosen settings.
Manual steaming remains an option for those wanting to develop their technique.
The machine gradually builds pressure during extraction, starting with a gentle pre-infusion phase before reaching full pressure – a feature shared across the Sage espresso machines range.
Perfect Pressure Control
While equipped with a 15-bar pump, the Bambino Plus uses an over-pressure valve to maintain the industry-standard 9 bars – exactly what you need for optimal extraction.
Professional-Grade Solenoid Valve
The 3-way solenoid valve, typically found in commercial machines, ensures clean operation by releasing residual pressure into the drip tray.
This results in dry, easy-to-knock-out coffee pucks and prevents messy ‘portafilter sneezes’ when removing the filter holder.
Our testing revealed that the Sage Barista Touch builds brilliantly on the Bambino Plus foundation, adding several compelling features that caught our attention:
Built-in Precision Grinder
During our extensive testing sessions, we found the integrated grinder with its 30 distinct settings offers remarkable versatility.
While you won’t need a separate grinder, this isn’t your typical bean-to-cup setup – you maintain genuine control over your grind settings.
We should note that the adjustment range isn’t quite as extensive as dedicated grinders like the Eureka Mignon, which offers infinite micro-adjustments through its worm gear mechanism.
It’s worth mentioning that despite its automated features, the Barista Touch sits in a unique space between traditional espresso machines and bean-to-cup systems, thanks to its intuitive interface and automated milk steaming capabilities.
Interactive Touch Display
True to its name, the centrepiece of this machine is its responsive touch screen interface.
We particularly appreciate how it guides users through drink creation step-by-step, whilst offering the flexibility to customise existing drinks or create entirely new recipes.
This functionality mirrors what you’ll find in the Sage Oracle Touch, though the Barista Touch focuses its automation on milk texturing rather than including the Oracle’s automatic dosing and tamping features.
Advanced Milk Texturing
While the Bambino Plus includes automatic milk texturing, the Barista Touch takes this feature further.
Our baristas were impressed by the enhanced control over both temperature and texture, all easily adjusted through the touch screen interface.
In our years of testing coffee equipment, we’ve found that Sage consistently breaks new ground in domestic coffee machine design.
Rather than following industry conventions, they regularly introduce innovative components and fresh approaches to improve the coffee-making experience.
The Dual Boiler perfectly illustrates this philosophy.
While most manufacturers stick to traditional dual boiler or heat exchanger designs, Sage created something unique – a domestic machine combining both dual boilers and a heat exchanger to maximise temperature stability.
Programmable Auto-Start
We’ve found this seemingly simple feature invaluable in daily use.
Beyond morning warm-ups, you can quickly programme the machine to heat up shortly before your next coffee break.
Precise Temperature Management
Unlike typical machines with two or three temperature settings, the Dual Boiler offers 10 precise temperature increments from 86°C to 96°C.
This range, easily adjusted via the control panel, gives us unprecedented control when working with different roast profiles.
Custom Pre-infusion Settings
The machine stands out by offering control over both pre-infusion power and duration.
This dual control gives us remarkable flexibility in extracting the best from each coffee.
Superior Temperature Stability
Through extensive testing, we’ve found temperature consistency to be crucial for exceptional espresso – it’s often the weakness in more affordable machines.
Sage’s innovative approach effectively mimics the performance of a saturated group head, typically found in high-end commercial machines.
While not technically a saturated group, the combination of PID-controlled group heating and brew boiler delivers remarkably consistent brewing temperatures.
As daily users of this machine (we maintain two in our testing facilities), we could discuss its capabilities at length.
One of our units has undergone the “slayer mod” – a straightforward modification enabling pressure profiling through the water knob.
This allows for flow profiling, adding another dimension to our coffee crafting capabilities.
For our complete analysis, see:
For more excellent semi-automatic espresso machine options, explore our comprehensive guide:
After testing dozens of coffee machines in our specialised workshop, we’ve discovered that when most coffee enthusiasts start exploring smart coffee machines, they’re typically drawn to bean-to-cup models.
It’s easy to understand why – these brilliant machines offer the complete package.
Let’s break down exactly what you’re getting with a bean-to-cup coffee machine (also called automatic or super-automatic machines):
We’ve found two main categories in our testing:
One-Touch Coffee Systems: These machines handle everything automatically but typically come with a manual steam wand (usually a Panarello or turbo frother) for milk texturing.
One-Touch Milk Systems: Often marketed as cappuccino makers, these clever machines automate both coffee brewing and milk frothing. Just press a button, and your perfectly crafted cappuccino or latte appears like magic.
What makes these machines truly special? It’s their ability to deliver coffee from freshly ground beans straight to your cup. Pop whole beans in the hopper, and moments later, you’re enjoying freshly ground, freshly brewed espresso.
But here’s something crucial we’ve learned through years of testing: the machine is only half the equation. The quality of your coffee depends enormously on the beans you choose. For truly outstanding coffee, you need to start with exceptional beans.
Remember: all the sophisticated technology in the world can’t transform mediocre beans into spectacular coffee. That’s why we always recommend investing in high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans to match your investment in a good machine.
Having thoroughly tested countless coffee machines in our specialised testing facility, we at Caffeinated Gear can confidently say that Melitta stands out in the bean-to-cup market. Their expertise spans both domestic and commercial machines, with a particularly strong showing in the smart coffee maker segment.
When we first unboxed this machine, we were impressed by its value proposition. For a one-touch, carafe-equipped bean-to-cup machine, the price point is remarkably competitive.
While the basic features align with what you’d expect from a fully automatic machine, it’s the smart connectivity through the Melitta Connect App that sets it apart. Let’s break down what this app offers:
Tutorial Access
We’ll be honest – this feature isn’t particularly groundbreaking. You can find better tutorials elsewhere online.
Drink Customisation
Now this is where things get interesting. With 21 drink options and 8 user profiles, we found the app-based drink creation and modification features genuinely useful during our testing.
Remote Brewing
This feature initially caught our attention, but there’s a significant catch: you must manually switch on the machine before using the app to brew.
While you could theoretically pair it with a smart plug for remote power-up, we find it puzzling that a “smart” coffee machine requires manual intervention before its smart features become available.
Melitta’s reasoning might be that since you need to physically prepare the machine (placing cups, adding milk), remote operation isn’t essential. However, this raises questions about the app’s practical value for coffee making.
The 15-minute auto-shutoff means you can’t leave it on standby for app control throughout the day.
Consider this scenario: if remote power-on were possible, you could set up your cup the night before for a morning espresso or Americano. Or, if someone else is already up, they could prep the milk carafe while you control the brewing from your phone.
Even with someone available to switch on the machine, you’ll face a waiting period as it heats up and runs its rinse cycle before app control becomes available.
Split Bean Hopper
Moving beyond the app functionality, we should mention the split hopper feature. While it’s marketed as a dual hopper system, our testing revealed it’s simply a single hopper with a divider. This distinction matters for serious coffee enthusiasts.
While you could technically use the divided hopper for different beans (perhaps mixing regular and decaf), we strongly advise against storing beans in hoppers for any length of time. In our testing, we’ve found it’s far better to measure out just what you need—ideally with scales for precision—and add them fresh each time you brew.
Our deep dive into customer feedback reveals predominantly positive experiences, though a few consistent issues emerged. Some users reported frequent app disconnections—a significant drawback if smart features influenced your purchase decision.
The milk temperature debate appears in several reviews, with conflicting reports about maximum temperatures. Based on our experience testing numerous machines, this often indicates manufacturing inconsistencies rather than design flaws.
The most significant limitation, in our assessment, is that the remote brewing feature isn’t quite as convenient as it sounds. Unless you’re using a smart plug, someone needs to physically switch on the machine before the app functionality becomes available.
You might recognise this machine from Brad Pitt’s latest coffee advertisement—though we prefer to focus on its actual capabilities rather than its celebrity connections.
After extensive testing of the DeLonghi Coffee Link app, we’ve found several genuinely useful features:
Power Control
Once configured, you can switch on the machine directly from your smartphone.
Discovery Platform
The app includes a discovery section, though we found its content somewhat limited during our testing.
Technical Support
Quick access to machine manuals and help documentation through the app—quite useful when you need quick answers.
Beverage Customisation
You can fine-tune 13 pre-programmed drinks and add three custom creations through the app.
Personal Profiles
The machine supports three custom profiles, all manageable through the app interface.
Initial Configuration
After the basic physical setup (water and beans), all configuration can be handled through the app, including future setting adjustments.
Overall, we’re impressed with the smart capabilities. The ability to power on the machine remotely is particularly practical.
With some forward planning—placing your cup the night before—you could theoretically have your coffee ready moments after waking. The only limitation is milk-based drinks, as no domestic machine currently includes a refrigerated milk container (though we’ve seen this in commercial models).
Unlike some competitors, this machine avoids major design oversights in its smart features. The remote operation works as intended, without frustrating limitations.
However, we’ve noticed recurring comments about milk temperature, even at maximum settings. While some users prefer exceptionally hot milk (we all know someone who does), this might be worth considering if you’re particular about milk temperature. For maximum control over milk heating, we’d recommend considering machines with manual steam wands instead.
Siemens has built quite a reputation with their Connect range of bean-to-cup machines. The Home Connect app offers several sophisticated features:
Remote Activation
Once enabled, you can power up your machine through the app.
Drink Preparation
Select, modify, and brew your coffee remotely once the machine is warmed up.
Queue Management
The clever “coffee playlist” feature lets you line up multiple drinks for family or guests.
Global Coffee Menu
We particularly appreciate the app-exclusive speciality drinks from various coffee cultures. Beyond standard offerings, you’ll find authentic recipes for Kleiner Brauner, Wiener Melange, and Kaapi.
Safety Controls
Remote activation of the childproof lock—particularly useful as little ones grow taller!
Power Management
The app offers auto-off timing between 5 minutes and 3 hours, though availability may vary by region due to EU energy regulations (currently suggesting a 15-minute maximum in the UK).
Drink Construction
Unique among smart machines, you can choose whether milk or coffee is dispensed first for cappuccinos through the Home Connect settings.
Based on our testing, Siemens currently leads the pack in smart coffee machine innovation. Their world coffee selections and playlist features offer genuine utility rather than mere novelty.
The primary criticism mirrors other one-touch machines—some users find the milk temperature insufficient at maximum settings. We’ve also seen mentions of app usability issues, though our recent testing suggests these may have been addressed in updates.
For a comprehensive look at more options, see:
Our team has extensively tested both the original Magnifica S and this newer Smart model.
While we’re finalising our comprehensive review of this latest version, we recommend checking our detailed De’Longhi Magnifica S review, as the core functionality remains largely unchanged.
Despite its name, this isn’t a connected coffee machine with app control or voice commands.
While you could technically control it through a smart plug, this won’t give you the ability to brew coffee remotely.
After thorough testing, we’ve found the most significant upgrade in the Smart version is its superior Panarello steam wand.
This improved model features the same adjustable wand found on the De’Longhi Dedica, which we consider the gold standard for this type of frothing system.
Outstanding Value
In our extensive experience testing bean-to-cup machines, this model offers remarkable features at a price point that’s genuinely competitive.
User-Friendly Design
We’ve found this machine exceptionally intuitive to operate.
During our testing, even complete beginners mastered its functions with minimal instruction.
Advanced Milk Frothing
The Smart version includes an adjustable Panarello wand, identical to the one on the De’Longhi Dedica EC685.
For those unfamiliar with the term, a Panarello is an automated milk frothing system that simplifies the process of creating perfectly textured milk.
As professional baristas, we can attest that traditional steam wand techniques require significant practice.
The Panarello system eliminates this learning curve while still producing satisfactory results.
Bean-to-cup machines featuring Panarello wands typically cost less than those with automatic milk carafes.
However, our testing reveals they often provide better temperature control.
This particular model features dual settings – cappuccino and hot milk – offering unprecedented control over both temperature and texture.
For experienced users, the wand’s outer sleeve can be removed to access the steam pipe for traditional steaming techniques.
Confusing Nomenclature
We find the ‘Smart’ designation potentially misleading, as it might suggest connectivity features that aren’t present.
Double Shot Limitations
Unlike some competitors, such as the Gaggia bean to cup coffee machines, this model doesn’t produce true double shots.
Our tests show it creates a larger volume using similar amounts of coffee rather than doubling both the coffee and extraction.
While not ideal, there’s a simple workaround: simply brew two consecutive single shots.
For more insights into milk frothing options, explore our comprehensive guide:
After months of hands-on testing, we’ve discovered that Gaggia’s latest bean-to-cup range offers something quite special. Available in five distinct versions, each model brings its own unique features to your kitchen counter:
Cadorna Style
The entry-level model comes with a plastic Panarello steam wand and offers 6 programmable coffee options.
Cadorna Plus
Similar to the Style but upgraded with a stainless steel Panarello steam wand, maintaining the 6 coffee options.
Cadorna Milk
Features a dedicated cappuccinatore milk frother instead of a Panarello wand, expanding your options to 10 different coffee drinks.
Cadorna Prestige
The range’s milk carafe model, providing settings for an impressive 16 different coffee drinks.
Cadorna Barista Plus
Our featured model pictured above matches the Plus features but stands out with its professional-grade steam wand.
What sets the Cadorna series apart is its brilliant multi-user functionality. With four colour-coded user profiles, everyone in your household can save their perfect coffee settings without compromising.
Easy to control coffee strength
We particularly appreciate Gaggia’s straightforward approach to coffee strength settings. Unlike many machines with abstract numbers, Gaggia’s bean system tells you exactly how much coffee you’re using.
The five-strength Cadorna models use a precise gram-scale system: one bean equals 7 grams, increasing by 1-gram increments up to 11 grams at the five-bean setting. Their simpler machines, like the Gaggia Brera, use three settings (7, 9, and 11 grams), making it wonderfully clear what you’re getting in your cup.
Filter coffee machines might seem straightforward, but they’re masters at their craft. These brilliant brewers use a filter basket system – either paper filters or a reusable mesh – to create that perfect drip coffee we all know and love.
We often hear from coffee lovers who’ve mistakenly bought an espresso machine hoping to make filter coffee. Here’s the thing: while an Americano (espresso with hot water) might look similar to filter coffee, they’re distinctly different drinks. The same goes for French press coffee – similar, but not quite the same magic.
If you’re craving that classic filter coffee taste with modern convenience, you need a proper filter coffee machine. Let’s look at some of our favourites.
While this isn’t your typical “smart” machine with Bluetooth or Alexa integration, we’d argue it’s one of the most intelligent filter coffee makers available. Here’s why:
Big capacity
With a whopping 1.7L brewing capacity, it’s among the largest domestic filter coffee machines we’ve tested.
Cold coffee…
Beyond hot brews, this clever machine includes a dedicated cold brew function.
Temperature stable
The built-in PID controller ensures spot-on brewing temperatures every time.
Multiple brew settings
We love the variety here, especially the “Gold Brew” setting that automatically follows SCA-approved standards.
Stainless steel carafe
No more broken glass carafes! The insulated stainless steel carafe keeps your coffee hot and is practically unbreakable.
Auto brew timer
Set it up the night before, and wake up to freshly brewed coffee. Just remember to prep your grounds beforehand.
The main sticking point is the price tag – it’s definitely an investment piece in the filter coffee world.
Want the full scoop? Read our detailed review:
The main sticking point is the price tag – it’s definitely an investment piece in the filter coffee world.
Want the full scoop? Read our detailed review:
The story of pod coffee machines is quite fascinating. It all began with Eric Favre, a Swiss inventor whose friendly competition with his Italian wife about coffee quality sparked a revolution.
Favre’s journey is remarkable – he started in Nestlé’s packaging department, working his way up to food scientist before finally pitching his invention to Nestlé’s Japanese CEO. This became Nespresso, and three decades later, Favre went on to create what we now know as the Lavazza pod system.
Today’s market includes numerous options beyond Nespresso, including Lavazza, Tassimo, Dolce Gusto, and Nespresso Vertuo. Let’s explore some standout models.
Here’s a brilliant creation born from environmental consciousness. Favre developed this system partly in response to concerns about aluminium usage in Nespresso pods (though nowadays you can find various eco-friendly Nespresso-compatible options).
Coffee via voice
True to its smart credentials, this Lavazza-Alexa collaboration lets you control your coffee making through voice commands.
Morning routine
Pair it with other Alexa devices, and you can create a morning routine where your lights turn on and your coffee starts brewing – proper future living!
Reorder pods
Tell Alexa your pod count, set up auto-ordering, and she’ll handle reordering when supplies run low.
Let’s be honest – the voice control feature is a bit gimmicky since you still need to physically insert the pod. You might want to consider a simpler model like the Deséa, which offers similar features without the voice control premium.
The morning routine feature certainly has its merits – programme your pod the night before, position your mug correctly, and your coffee awaits at your “Good Morning” command to Alexa.
However, our testing revealed that the voice control functionality, whilst novel, might be more suited to impressing visitors than daily use.
During our extensive review process, we noticed a recurring theme in Amazon feedback regarding voice recognition issues. Many users reported having to repeat commands multiple times – reminiscent of those amusing scenarios where less tech-savvy relatives wage verbal warfare with their smart devices. (We’ve all witnessed someone frantically shouting “COFFEE!” at their machine, forgetting the vital “Alexa” wake word!)
The price point also raises eyebrows. When we compared it to other pod machines in our database, particularly the Lavazza range, we found several models offering comparable features minus the smart integration at a significantly lower cost.
For a comprehensive look at alternative options, check out our detailed guide to
After extensive testing of numerous smart coffee machines in our specialised coffee lab, we’ve found that the value of smart features varies significantly between models.
The real worth of a smart coffee machine depends entirely on how its features align with your daily coffee routine.
Some manufacturers promote remote operation as a key selling point, but our testing revealed that many models still require manual power activation – meaning you’ll need to leave your warm bed anyway!
For pod machines specifically, our barista team discovered that voice control features often fall short of expectations. Since you’ll always need to physically insert a pod, voice commands become more of a novelty than a practical feature.
However, we’ve found genuine value in certain smart integrations. For instance, when testing machines with morning routine capabilities – where you load your pod the night before and the machine coordinates with your smart home system – the convenience factor becomes truly meaningful.
In our extensive experience testing smart coffee machines, we’ve learned that “smart” features can vary dramatically between manufacturers and models. There’s no industry standard for what constitutes a smart coffee machine.
Through our testing process, we’ve found that most smart coffee machines offer alternative control methods beyond traditional button operation. However, the specific features depend heavily on both the machine type and individual model – as evidenced by the diverse range of machines we’ve reviewed above.
Based on our professional assessment and hands-on testing, a genuine smart coffee machine should offer meaningful connectivity options. At minimum, we expect smartphone app control capabilities, while better models include integration with voice assistants like Alexa, Google Home, or Siri.
However, our testing has revealed that not all machines marketed as “smart” meet these basic criteria. We recommend carefully checking the specific features that matter most to your coffee routine before making a purchase.
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