Filter Coffee vs Espresso – Which Is the Better Machine?

Whether it’s your first time purchasing a coffee machine, or whether you're simply looking to upgrade, shopping on today’s online market can be rather confusing. Especially if you’re looking at top of the range stuff! Despite the reels of reviews, makes and high-tech features, what should be prioritised is the type of coffee that’s going to be produced.

Will this particular machine tantalise those taste buds like your favourite coffee shop? That’s the ultimate question you want to ask.

Of course, there are other factors to take into consideration like budget, convenience, etc. And since you can’t try every coffee machine on the market, we’ve done the digging for you.

Below, we have tried and tested two popular coffee machines (filter vs espresso) to help you make the ultimate decision.

Filter coffee machine

As seen on American TV shows, the filter coffee machine has become a trending piece in most homes. It seems fairly easy to use, people rave about how good it tastes, and best of all, you can top up your cup as many times as you like! Or so it seems. But how does it make your coffee taste?

Filter coffee machines work by infusing water into ground coffee which then gets drip-fed into a jug; creating the ultimate black americano, on a larger scale. Depending on the make and model, some filter coffee machines can produce up to 12 servings at one time, which is a great feature for large families, get-togethers or even coffee-obsessed individuals. Most impressively, the filter coffee machine is designed to keep your cup (or jug) of joe warm with a hot plate, fitted at the base of the machine.

However, there is one downside to this. Most traditional filter coffee machines only produce black coffee, which isn’t ideal for those that prefer fluffy cappuccinos. With regards to its taste.. it depends!

Filter coffee machines are designed to infuse water into the coffee ground mix which reduces its strength. That said, this doesn’t necessarily diminish the quality of coffee that's produced. There are umpteen stores, coffee shops and suppliers who produce coffee grinds in a variety of flavours and strengths, the quality of the coffee will all depend on your liking.

Filter coffee machine overview

Pros

Keeps drinks warm for longer
Better flavour than freeze-dried coffee
Produces large volumes of coffee instantly

Cons

Not as versatile as other coffee machines
Only produces one type of coffee

Espresso coffee machine

An espresso coffee machine is where the coffee culture starts to become a bit classier. Perfect for those that want coffee on the go, the espresso machine does exactly what it says on the tin… and in some cases, even more!

Like filter coffee machines, traditional espresso coffee makers also use ground coffee, but not the same type. Espresso machines tend to use a much finer grind for a sharper, stronger taste. As indicated by the name, this type of coffee machine produces small ‘espresso’ shots of coffee through a little hot water at a higher pressure to give it a strong dose of flavour. The pressure of the water also causes a fine layer of froth on top, which helps fulfil its flavour and prolong its aftertaste.

Its disadvantages? Again, as indicated in the title, an espresso machine only produces a small amount of coffee which isn’t ideal for anyone who wants a large cup of coffee on the go. Nonetheless, if you’re crafty with your drinks, some espresso machines do come with a milk steamer attached, so there is scope to produce your very own, barista-style coffee!

Filter Coffee vs Espresso – Which Is the Better Machine?

Filter coffee machine

Filter coffee machine overview

Pros

Cons

Espresso coffee machine

Espresso machine overview

Pros

Cons

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