Brew better at home
The Underground Boston: Coffee Gear Guides for Better Cups at Home
Espresso machines, coffee makers, grinders and brewing tools compared from the details each maker publishes, so you can pick gear that fits your counter and your routine.
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Listing-checked factsEvery spec we cite comes from the maker's own Amazon listing.
One scoring methodEach guide scores picks on four published criteria.
Fit and skip notesEvery pick says who it suits and who should pass.
An editor per categoryEspresso, brewers, grinders and accessories each have their own editor.
Our shortlist
Top Espresso Machine Picks
Four standouts from our espresso machine guide, each with a label for the one thing it does that the others do not.
Breville Bambino Plus
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De'Longhi Magnifica Evo
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Breville Barista Express
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Which espresso machine style fits your routine?
Decide how much of the work you want to do yourself, then compare grinders, steam wands and counter space.
Brew your way
Find Gear for Every Brew Method
Jump to guides for the brewer, grinder or tool you are shopping for.
Fresh guides
Latest from The Underground Boston
New coffee gear guides and product comparisons.
New coffee gear guides are on the way. Check back soon.
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Browse by Category
Jump straight to the coffee gear you care about.
Espresso Machines
Espresso machines, cappuccino makers and machines with built-in grinders.
Explore →Coffee Makers
Drip, single serve, pod, pour over, cold brew, French press and moka pot brewers.
Explore →Coffee Grinders
Burr, blade and manual coffee grinders for every brew method.
Explore →Coffee Accessories
Scales, kettles, frothers, tampers, canisters, warmers and mugs.
Explore →Deep dives
Explore Coffee Gear Topics
Focused hubs to compare models and learn what each spec on the listing means.
Coffee gear FAQ
Common Coffee Gear Questions
What is the difference between semi-automatic and bean-to-cup espresso machines?
A semi-automatic machine runs the pump while you grind, dose and tamp the coffee yourself. A bean-to-cup machine grinds, doses and brews inside the machine, and many also froth milk at the touch of a button.
Do I need a burr grinder for espresso?
Espresso needs a fine, even grind, which is why most espresso guides pair a machine with a burr grinder. If your machine has no built-in grinder, check that a separate grinder lists an espresso setting.
What does the bar rating on an espresso machine mean?
The bar number is the pump pressure the maker lists for the machine. It is one spec among many, so compare it alongside temperature control, pre-infusion and the portafilter size.
How do you pick the right coffee maker for your kitchen?
Start with how many cups you brew at once, then measure the counter and cabinet height. After that, compare the brew style, programming and the cleaning steps the maker lists.