Buying your first bean-to-cup coffee machine can feel like a big decision. With lots of features, names, and prices, it’s easy to get confused, especially if you’re used to pods or filter machines. But it doesn’t have to be complicated.
In this guide, we’ll help you answer the three questions that really matter, and then show you a few popular machines from our Winter Sale that are perfect for first-timers.
Question No. 1: Do you want one-touch coffee or some hands-on fun?
One touch:
If you want great coffee with minimal effort, go for fully automatic bean-to-cup machines. These can grind, brew and froth at the touch of a button, without you fiddling with settings.
Best for: Busy mornings, households with varied drink preferences, anyone who wants simplicity.
Hands On:
If you enjoy tweaking your coffee (like adjusting tamping or milk texture) then a more manual machine can be fun. But be honest: if this is your first machine, one-touch convenience usually wins.
Best for: Espresso fans and hobbyist brewers.
Question No. 2: Do you drink milk-based coffees regularly?
For lattes and cappuccinos, consider a machine with an automatic milk frother. They’re easier to use and clean.
If you only have the occasional milk-based drink, you can still get great results with a simpler system, but automatic frothing adds consistency and ease.
Question no. 3: How often will you use it?
If you're a daily coffee drinker, a mid range automatic machine is ideal
If you're an occasional user, entry level automatics save money
If you're replacing cafe visits, premium machines deliver the best experience!
Usually, you don’t need the most expensive machine as your first — it’s better to buy something you’ll use and enjoy every day.
Top 3 Bean-to-Cup Machines for First-Time Buyers
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Best Everyday Choice
De’Longhi Magnifica Plus Automatic — €629 (Was €699)
A reliable all-rounder that’s easy to use and makes excellent coffee consistently. Great if you want one-touch drinks without unnecessary complexity.
Why it’s good for first-timers:
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Simple interface
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Adjustable strength & cup sizes
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Automatic cleaning cycle
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Best Full-Feature Upgrade
De’Longhi PrimaDonna Soul — €999 (Was €1179)
This machine adds a more intuitive interface and smoother milk system, making café-style drinks effortless. It’s an excellent next step if you know you’ll love bean-to-cup coffee long-term.
Why it’s good for first-timers:
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Smart touch controls
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Comfortable milk frothing
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Consistent results across drink types
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Best Value If You Love Espresso
Sage Barista Express Espresso — €589 (Was €629)
This option gives you a bit more control if you enjoy espresso and want to learn the craft. It’s slightly more hands-on, but still beginner-friendly with a built-in grinder.
Why it’s good for first-timers:
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Excellent espresso quality
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Integrated conical burr grinder
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Great entry into barista-style brewing
Why Now Is a Good Time to Buy
Our Winter Sale means you can get these machines — including models that normally sit well above €1000 — at prices that make a first-time purchase much more affordable.
Whether you want café-style cappuccinos at home, or you’re upgrading from pods to whole beans, this is a great moment to make the leap.
Final Tip for First-Timers
A good bean-to-cup machine doesn’t just make coffee — it makes your mornings easier. Pick a machine that feels simple to use, easy to maintain and right for your daily habits.
If you’re unsure about features or need help picking one for your kitchen space or family’s habits, our team at Redmond Electric can help — just ask.