How we choose

This page says what we do and what we do not do, so you can weigh a recommendation for yourself.

What we do

• Read each Amazon listing: title, photos, listed specifications and the seller's notes.
• Read the maker's own product page, specification sheet and manual where they exist.
• Compare products in the same category on what is published: boiler design, temperature control, portafilter size and warm-up time for machines; burr size and type, dosing and adjustment for grinders; capacity, materials and power for the rest.
• Give each guide a short recommendation, who the product suits and who should skip it.
• Show every specification as the maker states it. Where a maker does not publish a value, the table reads "Not stated".

What we do not do

• We do not test equipment by hand. We have not pulled shots on, ground with or steamed milk on the products we cover, and we make no measured claims about taste or performance.
• We do not guarantee that a specification is current. Makers change models and revise figures; check the maker's sheet before you buy.
• We do not show Amazon star ratings or review counts.
• We do not publish prices ourselves. Prices load live from Amazon and carry an "as of" time.

Prices and purchases

Prices come from Amazon as of the time shown and can change. The price on Amazon when you buy is the price that applies. Every purchase is between you and Amazon or the third-party seller, under their terms and returns policy. Warranties are the maker's; check the terms in the listing and the maker's documentation.

Safety

Espresso equipment involves mains electricity, hot water and steam. Follow the manufacturer's manual for installation, electrical requirements, descaling and use.

Money

We earn a commission on qualifying Amazon purchases made through our links. It does not change the price you pay and it does not decide what we recommend. See the disclosure.

Corrections

If a guide has a fact wrong, tell us and we will fix it and note the date.