For the caffeine dependant among us, the key to beginning any new day on the right foot is sipping on a great coffee. Now, I'm not one to judge how you prefer to consume your poison, (unless of course, you rely on a mocha to give you your buzz), but what I will say is that when it comes to coffee machines, it's certainly not one size fits all. Which, is why I've gone ahead and done the extremely pleasurable work of pulling together some of the best coffee machines on the market right now.

Whether you're a traditionalist who has the time and passion to create the complete barista experience at home, or are looking for a machine that delivers a cafe-quality brew at the touch of a button, you'll find all the best options, here.

1. KitchenAid Semi Automatic Espresso Machine with Burr Grinder

Best for: Experimenting with espresso

Price: $999

KitchenAid has been leading the charge in sleek, easy-to-use kitchenware for decades, and this semi-automatic coffee machine is no exception.  Whether you're a coffee-making connoisseur, or just appreciate the taste of a good brew, you'll love features like a removable bean hopper – so you can trial whatever beans take your fancy, no matter how far through the current variation you are – and Smart Dosing Technology, which allows you to get the right amount of grind, every time. There's also an extra large water tank (enough for 33 espresso shots, to be exact), and an ultra-quiet grinder, so you can prep your morning coffee without disturbing the entire house. And for kitchens without ample bench top space, this is also a worthwhile investment: not only is this machine small relative to other makes, but it also features wheels for easy transport across your counters.

2. Loewe Aura.Pure

Best for: A machine that will actually look good in your kitchen

Price: $3,999

When we say 'Loewe,' your first thought is probably whimsical, expectation-defying fashion. But it's also the name of a German electronics company — and one mastering the art of at-home coffee machines, at that. Loewe is moving into high-end kitchenware, with the launch of its aura.pure coffee machine. The machine is equal parts chic and functional, with clever features like programmable pre-infusion, which allows users to set the soak time of the ground beans before espresso extraction, in order to customise the flavour profile. There's also three thermoblocks, which heat the device in under two minutes, and an independent thermoblock controlling milk frothing, so no matter your milk of choice, you can rest-assured it won't burn. Function aside, this machine is about as aesthetically pleasing as they come, crafted from dark steel, with wooden accents. Of course, the accessories are equally considered, with a matte black milk pitcher and wooden tamper included in purchase.

3. KitchenAid KF8 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

Best for: Fully-automatic functionality

Price: $2,599

No coffee order is too complicated for this fully automatic espresso machine, also by KitchenAid. While it comes at a slightly higher price than the brand's other models, we can understand why. The touchscreen allows you to perfect your coffee order, with up to 40+ in-built recipes, and the ability to adjust the strength, temperature, milk, and size to your heart's desire. Even better, the machine can remember the coffee order of up to six users, so you don't have to. The removable bean hopper allows you to experiment with different bean varieties, and when it comes time to clean your machine, you'll be reminded via a simple notification. It literally doesn't get easier than this.

4. Lavazza A Modo Mi0 Deséa Coffee Machine

Best for: Great pours in tight spaces

Price: $249

There isn't a lot not to love about the Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa Coffee Machine. One of its most alluring draw cards is how unbelievably easy it is to use. First and foremost, this is a pod machine, which is a massive tick for coffee lovers who either aren't experienced with grinding their own beans, or who simply don't have the time. Some pod machines come with the choice of simply a single or double espresso shot, but the A Modo Mio Deséa does so much more. The machine's 'one touch' technology is a highly intuitive and incredibly user-friendly interface that allows you to prepare your coffee recipes with a single touch. You can choose from five milk-based recipes or four different coffee sizes; including cappuccino, large cappuccino, latte macchiato, hot or cold frothed milk or an espresso exactly as you would drink at a café. There's also attention to details like more foam or a hotter coffee, all at the touch of a button.

Outside of its technical properties, the stylish and sleek nature of the Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa means it's great for any setting – from the office to your home. It's certainly a fan favourite in the RUSSH offices.

5. Breville Barista Express

Best for: Barista-grade coffee at home

Price: $749

There's a reason most coffee machine enthusiasts agree that Breville's Barista Express is one of the best all-around machines on the market. In short, this model functions like a professional machine, but is a little easier to use. First up, with a single touch, a precision conical grinder grinds your beans of choice, and dose control makes sure you have exactly the right amount for your coffee. Then, the stainless steel portafilter gets to work producing coffee with a rich flavour profile, helped out by the nine bar extraction, which draws out creamy, opulent espresso. When this is ready, a thermocoil heating system delivers water at 93 degrees C — the optimal temperature for the perfect brew. While all this is at work, you can play around with the powerful steam wand to froth your milk of choice — and perfect your latte art, of course. We guarantee, with the Barista Express on your bench, you'll be breaking up with your local coffee shop in no time.

6. Bialetti Moka Express Coffee Maker

Best for: Non-milky coffee orders

Price: $76.97

Milky, frothy coffees are not for everyone, and if you fall into this camp, there are plenty of options on the market. Italian coffee machine purveyor Bialetti has been perfecting the perfect brew since 1933, starting with this original Moka Express coffee maker. To use, simply fill the boiler with water, insert the funnel tank, and add ground coffee. Then, place it on your stove — and don't worry, this machine is compatible with gas, electric, and induction varieties. If you still needed convincing, this humble stainless steel stovetop model is also undeniably sleek, and has found a home on some of the chicest kitchen countertops, which is great news for anyone not wanting to compromise on appearance for their morning coffee.

7. Sunbeam Barista Max Espresso Machine

Best for: Perfectly-ground beans

Price: $599

Did someone say integrated grinder? The Sunbeam Barista Max Espresso Machine is a dream for anyone who is wanting to try their hand at making barista-grade espresso at home. The machine features a 15 bar espresso pump, a grinder with 30 grind settings and a steam wand so you can whip up frothy milk for cappuccinos and lattes. Promoting a three-step process, the Barista Max Espresso Machine is equipped with all the necessary technologies of a cafe-style machines; including Temp°IQ Shot Control™, a 58mm group head and of course the famous Tap & Go™ technology which allows for an easy, on-demand one-touch grind system to deliver fresh beans for every cup.

8. Smeg Bean to Cup Fully Automatic Coffee Machine with AutoMilk

Price: No-fuss coffee

Best for: $1,199

If you love a good cup of coffee, but don't have the patience to fiddle with grinders and tamps, the Smeg Bean to Cup Fully Automatic Coffee Machine with AutoMilk might be for you. Just as the name suggests, this machine makes your coffee from beans to finish with just the touch of a few buttons. With just four buttons, the Bean to Cup can produce up to ten coffee types, and also has the ability to produce hot water, steam, and frothed milk – so you can be particular with creating the coffee taste that you love. Other specifications to note include a 150g coffee bean compartment, super fast thermoblock heating system, a stainless steel conical burr grinder, and a roomy 1.4L water tank. Plus, it's been designed in Smeg's signature retro aesthetic. In other words, this sleek but highly-functional design is great for smaller spaces where the quality of the coffee is important, but the extra 'baggage' just won't do.

9. Pixie Capsule Coffee Machine with Aeroccino

Price: Pod coffee, but better

Best for: $399

The humble pod machine gets a serious upgrade with DeLonghi's Pixie Capsule Coffee Machine with Aerrocino. While coffee traditionalists might once have turned up their nose at pod varieties, Delonghi's invention might have you convinced otherwise. The compact design heats water to the perfect temperature in just 25 seconds, while a 19-bar pump works to extract creamy, decadent espresso by delivering the the exact amount of pressure and water flow required for your coffee order. And the portable, dishwasher-friendly (!!!) Aerrocino milk frother allows you to create creamy cappuccinos and lattes with the touch of a button. There's also the welcome ability to personalise and memorise your drink order, and an auto shut off after nine minutes — so you have one less thing to worry about as you try and get out of the house (with a coffee in hand) each morning.

If you're wanting to take your new machine for a test run, why not make a fresh batch of coffee for this delicious no-bake coffee, date and walnut slice?

Image: Pinterest