Buying guides, brewing know-how & origin stories
Straight-talking advice from people who are a little too into coffee, so you can spend your money on the right kit.
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Dual boiler vs heat exchanger vs single boiler: which espresso machine is right for you?
It’s the biggest decision when choosing an espresso machine. Here’s what each boiler type actually means for your coffee.
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La Marzocco coffee machines at home: the Linea Micra and the best alternatives
La Marzocco is the café icon. Here’s what makes its home machines special, and the best alternatives worth considering.
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How to descale a Sage Barista Express (and keep it running perfectly)
A simple step-by-step guide to descaling the Sage Barista Express, plus the cleaning routine that keeps it at its best.
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How to use a coffee tamper (and how to choose the right one)
A level, consistent tamp is one of the simplest ways to improve your espresso. Here’s how to do it, and which tamper to buy.
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The best filter coffee machines and pour-over kit
Filter coffee has had a glow-up. From Moccamaster to Chemex, here’s the kit that brews clean, sweet, nuanced cups.
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Smeg coffee machines: are they as good as they look?
Retro looks, modern coffee. Here’s how Smeg’s bean to cup and espresso machines perform, and which one to choose.
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Moccamaster KBG Select review: the best filter coffee machine?
Handmade in the Netherlands and certified by the SCA. Here’s why the Moccamaster is still the filter coffee machine to beat.
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Lelit Bianca V3 review: the dual boiler enthusiasts dream of
Flow profiling, dual boilers and beautiful Italian build. Is the Lelit Bianca V3 the best home espresso machine you can buy?
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A beginner’s guide to speciality coffee beans
Origin, process, roast date… here’s what actually changes the taste in your cup, and the beans we’d buy first.
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Gaggia Classic Evo Pro review: the best first espresso machine?
It’s been teaching home baristas since 1991. Here’s how the latest Gaggia Classic Evo Pro performs.