How do I choose the best long-lasting bean-to-cup coffee machine?

What are the different types of coffee machines?

The history of coffee goes back many centuries, and legend has it that it was a shepherd in Ethiopia who discovered the stimulating properties of coffee berries. Over time, coffee consumption became more widespread, and coffee cultivation developed with the creation of plantations in tropical regions, notably in America and Asia, before becoming industrialized.

Today, coffee is a popular beverage enjoyed the world over, with a wide variety of preparation methods and coffee styles. But whatever extraction method you choose, coffee is all about alchemy.

Filter coffee maker

The basic filter coffee maker is a small household appliance that brews coffee by percolation. The water in the reservoir is heated by a resistor. Extraction takes place by means of a drip mechanism through ground coffee poured into a paper filter (preferably unbleached). By attraction, the coffee then passes into the coffeepot. Simple and efficient, the filter coffee maker makes coffee in large quantities and quite quickly. However, some believe that it can alter the subtleties of flavors compared to other brewing or extraction methods, and that it produces a watery coffee.

Pod coffee machine

Pod coffee machines are renowned for their ease of use.
You insert a pod, fill the water tank, press a button and the coffee is ready. However, these devices generally offer less flexibility in terms of settings and extraction.

Another drawback is that pods can be expensive in the long run, both for the wallet and the environment. This equipment is designed for occasional users.

In more intensive use scenarios, there is a chance that the machine's design will be inadequate, and that failures will occur prematurely.

Espresso machine without grinder

The espresso machine with bean grinder is the star performer for coffee lovers who don't want to spend 15 minutes every morning preparing their espresso.

The coffee is freshly ground with every use via the integrated grinder, guaranteeing a deep, rich aroma. Extraction time and water volume are automatically calculated. These appliances often offer a variety of settings, from the fineness of the preparation to the pressure for greater pleasure.

Beware: given the popularity of these products, many brands are marketing full automatics with very different quality/price ratios.

Considering its ease of use compared to an espresso machine, the economics of bean-to-cup coffee compared to pods, and the quality of the coffee, many consider the investment worthwhile.

How does a bean-to-cup coffee machine work?

They are distinguished by their advanced technology, which combines precision and automation to transform a single coffee bean into a delicious beverage. In simple terms, here's how one of these machines works to deliver an espresso worthy of the name:

• Step 1: The machine activates the grinder and grinds the quantity of grain corresponding to the beverage you select by dipping into the grain tank.
• Step 2: Ground coffee is automatically fed into the coffee group. This corresponds to the percolator.
• Step 3: The right amount of water for your drink is extracted from the reservoir by a pump and heated to the ideal temperature by a mini-boiler.
• Step 4: The machine activates a kind of piston that brings hot water and coffee together under pressure. This is the extraction phase!
• Step 5: The coffee flows into your cup, you inhale the scent of fresh espresso and you can enjoy a moment of pleasure!

Let's take a look at the essential components that make up these little robots and enable you to brew your favorite coffee.

The role of the grain mill

We could also call it the coffee grinder. As its name suggests, it grinds coffee beans to transform them into coffee powder. They consist of a fixed grinding wheel and a mobile grinding wheel driven directly or indirectly by an electric motor via a transmission shaft.

When you select your beverage - espresso, ristretto, double espresso - the coffee robot's electronic board tells the grinder how long it needs to operate to obtain the right dose and weight of ground coffee. Thanks to their settings, espresso machines should enable you to modify the fineness of the grind via a stepper switch and the grinder's operating time via soft settings.

Be careful, these settings will have a considerable influence on the extraction and taste of your coffee. So take it easy and take notes!

What is the function of the coffee group?

The coffee group is at the heart of the machine and is the main component. This is where the magic happens, the extraction!The coffee group interacts mainly with two systems. It is supplied with ground coffee via the grinder and hot water via the hydraulic circuit.

The main operation of the coffee group is to pressurize the water/grist mixture to extract flavors, aromas and, if possible, a little bonus crema for your espresso. To do this, he collects the freshly ground coffee and, by means of a piston, packs it to create a cake.

This corresponds to the gesture you've already seen in cafés, when the barman puts a dose of coffee into his percolator and then cups it. ThenThe hydraulic system takes care of the rest, infusing the right amount of water into the coffee group.

Full automatic espresso heating system:

Water temperature is not important for good extraction, it's crucial!

Whatever system your product is equipped with, the heating system's job is to bring the volume of water sent by the pump up to the right temperature. Full-automatic espresso machines generally feature rapid-heating systems, ensuring that the water reaches the ideal set temperature in no time.

Some top-of-the-range models use double-chamber boilers or thermoblock systems for more efficient heating and greater thermal stability during the extraction phase.

What is the purpose of the water pump in coffee machines?

The water pump (vibrating pump) is responsible for taking the right volume of water from the reservoir and injecting it into the coffee group's percolation chamber. The pump is the component that generates the pressure needed to push hot water through the ground coffee in the coffee group.

An adequate pressure of around 9 bar is essential for a characteristic espresso extraction. Pumps require maintenance to prevent scaling and ensure stable pressure over time. Visit In most cases, the water pump is coupled to a flow meter which helps ensure that the right amount of water is used to prepare each cup of coffee. This ensures consistency and precision of infusion ratios, which is crucial for consistent quality.

A well-calibrated water pump and flow meter ensure that the water is distributed evenly over the ground coffee, allowing optimum extraction of the coffee's flavours, aromas and oils. This contributes to a well-balanced, delicious coffee.

The role of electronics in espresso robots :

Logically, automatic espresso machines incorporate far more electronics than other machines. Electronics on this type of product are essential for automating, controlling and personalizing the coffee, tea or cappuccino preparation process.

If the coffee group is the heart of the machine, the main electronic board is the machine's brain. The electronic board controls every element of the machine: grinder, pump, coffee group...

It also reacts to the position sensor to check that everything is working properly and orchestrate the sequence of steps.

The steam nozzle: its role and importance

The steam nozzle is an important feature for fans of coffee drinks with milk, such as cappuccino or latte. Thanks to a solenoid valve, the electronic board directs the hydraulic flow from the pump to the nozzle. Using the pump's pressure, hot water is transformed into steam by projecting it fast and hard through the small nozzle opening.

This steam is used to heat and froth the milk. The key to good milk foam lies in the combination of pressure, temperature and technique. And don't try to make a nice mousse with skimmed milk - it won't work.

The milk carafe: usefulness and advantages

For those who prefer their espressos topped with a splash of milk, the milk carafe is an asset. It automatically stores, heats and froths milk, providing a hassle-free coffee experience. What's more, it guarantees an even, creamy milk foam every time.

How do you choose the right bean-to-cup machine for your needs?

Choosing the perfect coffee machine depends on your coffee preferences, your daily consumption, your budget and the space you have available.

We try to help you define the ideal machine for you.

Price and capacity considerations (bar, grain capacity)

When we talk about price, we don't just mean the initial cost of the machine. Performance characteristics such as pressure (measured in bar) and grain capacity must also be considered. A high-pressure device ensures aroma extraction, creating a rich, flavorful coffee.

If you're a coffee lover and particularly demanding when it comes to your favorite beverage, make sure you choose a model that lives up to your expectations. You love good coffee but you're not a barista either, so there's no need to pick up a machine with 1,000 settings.

How does water and grain capacity influence choice?

The size of the water tank and bean container should be consistent with the number of daily coffees you will be making in your household.

Water tank capacity

The water tank capacity determines how many cups you can prepare without having to refill the tank. A larger tank is more attractive for larger families or those who drink several cups throughout the day. Similarly, if your favorite beverages are long coffees or large-volume hot drinks, we recommend a large-capacity reservoir.

This avoids frequent refilling interruptions and guarantees that your coffee is always ready. However, greater capacity can mean a larger, and therefore bulkier, unit. For For those who don't drink much coffee every day and/or who consume low-volume beverages, a smaller reservoir may suffice. This will prevent water from stagnating in the tank for too long.

Grain tank capacity

Grain capacity is important, but not crucial. Filling the beans is very easy and takes only a few seconds. Even so, if you consume several coffees a day per person, make sure the reservoir meets your expectations.

Importance of espresso type and bar pressure:

Is your favorite drink espresso? Then check the pressure. It is generally measured in bar and is essential for extracting all the coffee's flavours and aromas. Most espresso machines require a pressure of at least 9 bar to produce a true espresso, but this is by no means enough.

When you buy your machine, make sure it can reach and maintain this pressure, to obtain a coffee of impeccable quality.

Heating element or boiler, what impact on the coffee machine?

The heating method is another essential consideration when buying a bean-to-cup coffee machine.

• Resistance systems heat water with an electric resistance, while boilers store and heat a larger volume of water at a constant temperature. Resistance systems, on the other hand, are more affordable but may not offer the same temperature uniformity.
• Thermoblocs heat water quickly and precisely. The thermobloc consists of a series of channels and chambers through which water circulates. When the machine is activated, water is pumped through these channels.
• Boilers offer excellent thermal stability, but can be more expensive. Please note that when the boiler is empty, the reheating time may be longer than with the two previous systems.

Fineness of grind and grinder setting

Coffee grinding plays an essential role in the quality and final taste of your coffee. It affects the way aromatic compounds, oils and solubles are extracted from coffee during the brewing process. The right grind for your brewing method and type of coffee is essential for a delicious, well-balanced cup of coffee.

Uniform grinding is essential for consistent extraction and balanced taste. If the grind is uneven, some particles may be over-extracted while others will be under-extracted, affecting the quality of the coffee. If you want to be able to adjust the fineness of the grind, make sure your product is equipped with an adjustment system.

A finer grind means :

• greater surface contact between ground coffee and water. This allows faster, more intense extraction of solubles from the coffee, which can result in a stronger, fuller-bodied taste.
• enhanced water penetration of ground coffee, extracting more aromatic compounds, oils and flavours.
• reduced infusion time

But beware of over-extraction, which will lead to the production of bitter, undesirable aromas in your drink. It's all about balance! With an adjustable grinder, you have the flexibility to adjust the preparation to your preference, ensuring that every cup is to your taste.

Choosing an analog, digital or touch control panel?

The ease of use of your machine depends largely on its control panel. Analog models are often associated with robustness and simplicity.

They can be more durable and less prone to technical failure. Digital controls offer a variety of functions and a more refined aesthetic, allowing you to personalize your coffee even further.

Touch controls are state-of-the-art technology, often associated with top-of-the-range appliances. They offer an intuitive, modern interface, but may require a little more care and maintenance.

Milk jug or steam nozzle: which option should you choose?

For fans of coffee and milk-based drinks (and yes, there are some!) such as cappuccino or latte, a milk carafe or steam nozzle is a plus.

The steam nozzle

Essential for manual preparation of milk-based drinks, the steam nozzle emits steam to heat and froth the milk. A good steam nozzle is capable of producing constant steam, resulting in a creamy, velvety foam, essential for a perfect cappuccino. It can also be used to heat other liquids, giving your machine versatility.

But be careful: to get a good froth, you need a little help, and whole milk is best!

Milk jug

It automatically heats and froths the milk, giving you barista quality at home. It guarantees consistent, perfectly creamy milk foam. However, if your consumption is limited mainly to espressos or black coffees, this option may not be necessary and may even unnecessarily increase the cost of the machine. The milk jug also requires perfect hygiene.

How to choose a durable coffee machine?

The reliability and sturdiness of a coffee machine depend mainly on a few key elements that are necessary for its proper operation and longevity. By understanding the role of each component and appropriating the right quality markers you will be able toake a responsible choice when purchasing a bean-to-cup coffee machine that will last for years to come.

You can also put your trust in the LONGTIME® label and check out products certified as durable, reliable and repairable.

The coffee group, the most important part of bean-to-cup brewers:

This is the heart of the machine, where water and coffee are transformed into the beverage we love! Its quality is vital to the longevity of your equipment and to ensuring that every espresso is perfect. The coffee group is a highly mobile part, subject to numerous mechanical, thermal and hydraulic stresses.

It's essential that the coffee group or brewer is made from sturdy, resistant materials, as it is subjected to high pressure and temperature with every use.

The materials used must be perfectly food-safe, and their design must be compatible with the high levels of use. Similarly, the gaskets that ensure the seal and the hoses that supply it must be carefully selected. Regular maintenance of this part is necessary to preserve its original properties and avoid the accumulation of coffee residues which could alter the quality of the beverage and the durability of the equipment.

From the consumer's point of view, it's difficult to evaluate this part at the time of purchase. However, we recommend that you enquire about the price of this spare part and the maintenance conditions.

The grain mill: importance and reliability

The grinder is the muscle of the bean-to-cup machine. His function is essential, since he supplies the coffee group. A high-quality grinder is often made of ceramic or stainless steel. It ensures even grinding and minimizes overheating of the beans, thus preserving their aroma.

The quality of the shredder is also intrinsically linked to the electric motor that drives it and to its rotation speed. There's no need for an oversized electric motor for this application. On the other hand, the motor needs to have a high starting torque to reach speed almost instantaneously. And beware of small pebbles getting into your grain - your mill won't appreciate it!

Another point of attention is to check that the grinder has peripheral seals, so that the ground product does not diffuse into the machine. There are reports that the quality of the grain may influence wear on the grinder, but we have not been able to verify this. If you have any information, write to us!

A word of advice: never manipulate the shredder's adjusting screw when it's stopped, but always while it's running. Similarly, avoid allowing coffee beans or other particles (coffee oils) to accumulate in the grinder or other key components. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance will ensure a long life for your equipment.

The reliability of coffee machine circuit boards:

Robotic espressos are highly technological products. They often contain several electronic boards to manage functions, voltages, sensors, settings and controls. Electronics therefore play a key role in the modernization and reliability of our equipment. From a sustainability point of view, here's what you need to remember:

• Advanced functionality: Thanks to electronic boards, coffee machines offer a variety of functions, from programming preparation times to memorizing coffee preferences. They can also adjust the temperature, pressure and volume of water for each cup.
• Reliability: A high-quality electronic board will guarantee stable, constant operation of the coffee machine. It regulates and controls every element to ensure that coffee is always prepared in optimum conditions.
• Maintenance and durability: Although electronic boards may seem delicate, quality design and resistant materials will ensure their longevity. Electronic components are normally reliable. However, it is crucial to protect the device from electrical surges and water, as these elements can damage the board.
• Repairability: Don't hesitate to check the location of the cards. Removability and accessibility are key factors in the event of failure.
• Updating and upgradability: Some manufacturers offer software upgrades. This allows us to improve performance, add new features or correct any bugs.

The robustness of coffee machine pumps:

The pump in a coffee machine is what allows the hot water to flow through the ground coffee beans under pressure. Here's a detailed explanation of how it works.

Most coffee machines are equipped with vibrating pumps. Names that frequently come up are Ulka or CEME. Ideally, we recommend selecting a machine equipped with a pump with a brass outlet. No difference in performance, but a gain in durability since brass is more prone to limescale.

It's a component that breaks down quite regularly. This is not abnormal, since it's a component that's fairly heavily used. Over time, the pump wears out and gradually loses its original performance, all the more so if you're a fan of long drinks or if you've set your grinder to very fine calibration. This type of failure is not very serious. In fact, the pump is a part that needs to be inexpensive and easily accessible. Pay attention to the accessibility time of the parts.

For those who want to know more about this specific component, we recommend the article on the Coffeediag website.

Full automatic espresso heating system:

Water temperature is important for good extraction and we explain why here.

Full-automatic espresso machines are generally equipped with rapid-heating systems for fast coffee delivery.
Some top-of-the-range models use double-chamber boilers or thermoblock systems for more efficient heating and enhanced thermal stability. Whatever the system, scale is often the enemy. But if you're conscientious, these systems have a reputation for reliability.

Which brand of coffee machine with grinder to choose?

In a world full of options, choosing the right brand of coffee machine for your needs is essential. To make the best choice :

• Look for reputation and, more importantly, history. Choose brands with a proven track record for quality and reliability, and real experience in the product family concerned.
• Consider customer reviews: feedback is invaluable for assessing performance and any recurring problems.

However, don't take everything you see at face value, and remember to compare like with like. Reviews of a very high-end product at €3,000 are hard to compare with an entry-level product at €400.

• Evaluate technological innovations: some brands stand out for their advances, providing an enriched user experience.
• Compare value for money: Align the features on offer with your budget. If you're on a tight budget, opt for machines with fewer options, fewer settings, fewer frills, and don't cut corners on sturdiness, reliability and repairability.
• Make sure you have good after-sales service: In the event of a breakdown, solid support is essential. No product is infallible, so it's best to be able to rely on a solid, structured after-sales service.
• Check the sales policy for spare parts, the number of years they have been available, and their price in relation to the purchase price.

How to choose an economical bean-to-cup coffee machine?

Buying a bean-to-cup coffee machine can represent a substantial initial investment. However, by choosing wisely, you can save money in the long run. Here are a few points to consider for an economical choice:

• Total cost of ownership: beyond the initial cost, think of maintenance costs, spare parts and energy consumption.
• Durability: Equipment designed to last may have a higher initial cost, but it will save you from having to replace it frequently.
• Energy efficiency: an energy-efficient appliance can help reduce your electricity bills.
• Integrated grinder: buying whole beans is often less expensive than buying pre-ground coffee or pods.

Maintenance and care of your coffee machine :

Fully automatic espressos are maintenance-intensive machines. Like all products that work with water, it is more than necessary to manage the pie. So be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and maintenance to the letter.

How do I set up my automatic espresso machine?

Setting up your machine properly is essential! Optimizing your machine's settings is the first step towards quality coffee and longer machine life:

• Water hardness: first and foremost, you need to know the hardness of the water in your town. This will help you maintain your coffee maker, washing machine, dishwasher, steam generator, etc.
• Grind: adjust the fineness of grind to suit the type of coffee you use. Improper grinding can lead to over- or under-extraction.
• Water quantity: By modulating the extraction time, you can modulate the quantity of water in your cup. Pay attention to the balance between fineness of grind and extraction time.

Regular maintenance of the bean-to-cup coffee machine :

A well-maintained coffee machine not only makes better coffee, but also ensures longer machine life and impeccable hygiene. Here are some basic tips for moderate use of your machine.

• Clean removable components regularly. (coffee grounds container, overflow container, water tank...)
• Descaling: Follow the periodicity recommended by the machine (operating instructions or indicator light), and carry out a complete descaling using products adapted to your machine.
• Every month, give the coffee unit a good cleaning to remove coffee residues and dry oils. Also check the condition of the drain nozzles and clean them if necessary.
• Annually, if you think you've got the skills, dismantling the covers and giving them a good blowing is beneficial.

How to make your coffee machine last as long as possible:

In addition to maintenance, a few simple gestures are all you need to push the lifespan to its maximum.

• Placement: Avoid placing your equipment in damp areas or in direct sunlight.
• Filtered water: Use filtered water to reduce scale build-up. Plus, there's a good chance it will improve the taste of your drink. You can also choose to install a filter directly in the tank.
• Emptying: Empty the drip tray regularly to prevent mildew.
• Avoid over-pressurization: the finer the grind, the higher the pressure of your pump to force the water through.

How do you descale your coffee machine?

Descaling is a crucial step in prolonging the life of your coffee machine and guaranteeing optimal taste in every cup. Over time, limescale builds up in your appliance, especially if you use tap water. Here are the steps to properly descale your coffee machine

• Preparation

  • Empty the water tank.
  • Make sure the device is switched off and unplugged.

• Choose a descaler

  • Opt for descalers specifically designed for coffee machines. Avoid aggressive products that could damage your machine or alter the taste of your coffee.
  • You can also use a homemade solution, such as a mixture of water and white vinegar (but always check whether your machine allows this). Although economical and ecological, the risk with this homemade solution lies in the dosage. Too much vinegar and you'll damage the machine's internal components. Not enough vinegar and your descaling will be ineffective!

• Descaling process

  • Fill the reservoir with descaling solution.
  • Switch on the machine and start a coffee cycle without using any coffee. Allow the descaling solution to drain completely through the machine.
  • Repeat the process if necessary.

• Rinse

  • Once the descaling process is complete, empty the tank.
  • Fill it with fresh, clean water.
  • Run several coffee cycles with clear water to remove any residual descaling solution.

• Drying and reassembly

  • Wipe all external parts of the machine with a soft cloth.
  • Make sure all parts are securely in place.

• Frequency

• Depending on the hardness of your water and the frequency of use of your machine, descaling should be carried out every 1 to 3 months.

Tip: Using filtered water can reduce limescale build-up, reduce the need for descaling and improve the flavour of your coffee.

How to use your coffee machine responsibly :

Responsible use of your coffee machine encompasses environmental, economic and maintenance aspects.

Machine selection :

The manufacture of a coffee machine takes a heavy toll on the environment. Resource extraction, manufacturing, transport, energy... Our consumption is not neutral, and if we're going to buy a machine, we might as well keep it running as long as possible. Among other things, this ensures rational use of resources.

Choose machines with low energy consumption, and remember to set the deep sleep setting as low as possible. There's no need for the machine to keep the water hot between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. if you're away, for example.

If you're going to be away for a long time, switch on the mains switch or unplug the mains plug.

A selection of automatic coffee machines has been awarded the LONGTIME® label, confirming their reliability, robustness and reparability.

Equip yourself according to your needs:

You drink one coffee a week...maybe you don't need an oversized, electronic machine. What's more, food processors need a minimum amount of use to avoid scaling.

The choice of coffee

As you may have noticed, coffee doesn't grow in France - at least not yet!

Coffee has a significant environmental impact, and we encourage you not to waste it and to moderate your consumption.

Make sure you choose ethical and, if possible, organic grains.

Extending product life

Is your product broken? You can't get rid of it that easily!

Head for the distributor's soap, your local repair shop, the Repair Café
near you! There are many ways and many solutions before declaring your machine end-of-life.

And good news: coffee machines are eligible for the French government's €25 repair bonus! This can potentially cover the cost of spare parts.

Troubleshooting and resolving common problems :

Coffee machines, like all household appliances, can sometimes experience problems. But before you do anything, make sure you have the necessary skills and know the safety instructions, so you don't do worse than you did better. Here's how to solve the most common problems:

What to do if your coffee machine trips?

• Check your electrical installation: make sure your wall socket is working properly and is not overloaded.
• Look for a potential leak responsible for this phenomenon
• Find out if a particular phase is blowing your circuit breaker. If this happens while the water is heating, the resistor may be out of order.
• Consult the manual: the device may require calibration or adjustment.

What to do when your coffee machine leaks?

• First of all, beware of electrical hazards and turn off the power supply.
• Try to locate the leak as precisely as possible.
• Check gaskets: worn or badly placed gaskets can cause leaks.
• If you have the skills, try to check whether a hose is punctured or simply loose.
• Check the manual: make sure you've assembled the machine correctly after cleaning.

What to do when your coffee machine switches itself off?

• Power save mode: your device may have a power save mode that switches it off after a certain period of inactivity.
• Technical problem: If the problem persists, consult customer service or a qualified technician.

What to do when your coffee water is cold?

• Calibration: Some models allow you to set the water temperature. See manual for instructions.
• Chances are your heating system is to blame. Ideally, the part should be dismantled and the voltages and ohmic values checked.

How do you remove your coffee group if you need to?

• Consult the manual: Most appliances have specific instructions for removing the coffee group.
• Above all, don't use force: If the coffee group seems to be stuck, don't force it. This could cause serious damage.

What should you do when the controls on your coffee machine stop responding?

• Reset: try unplugging the device and plugging it back in after a few minutes. Check whether there is a reset procedure specific to your product.
• Check that all removable parts are in the right place. A position sensor that is not engaged is enough to put the machine in a safe position.
• Consult customer service: if the problem persists, try to isolate whether it's a specific function or key, or whether it could be a global electronic fault.

What to do if your coffee tastes bad?

• Cleaning: regular maintenance is essential to avoid the build-up of limescale and other coffee residues which, in the medium term, can seriously impair taste.
• Water quality: using filtered water can considerably improve the taste of your coffee. Beware, however, that open jugs of water in the fridge can easily absorb the taste of the food they contain.
• Freshness and storage: make sure your coffee beans are fresh and stored correctly.
• Check your settings and return to the original configuration if necessary.