Looking for the right coffee machine can have you feeling like Prince Charming wandering about with a glass slipper and no idea where you’re supposed to go. With so many thousands of options available, narrowing them down to the fundamental criteria for your office setting and needs is essential.
In this guide, we’re exploring the features to look for in a coffee machine and more importantly, what to look for in a coffee machine, from general no-go’s to uncovering the specific design benefits ideal for your company.
We’ll have you set up with your perfect coffee machine before the clock strikes twelve… or, five.
5 Ways On What To Look For In A Coffee Machine:
Before we dive into the details, here is our guide on what to look for in a coffee machine:
- The Size Of The Coffee Machine
- Water Capacity & Storage
- The Type Of Machine (Or The Level Of Effort)
- The Steam Wand
- Quality & Safety
1. The Size Of The Coffee Machine
The only thing Charming had to worry about on his quest was finding the right size foot to match his slipper. Unfortunately for you, there are a few more features to look for in a coffee machine, but size is an important one to start with. Immediately, you can probably rule out personal, fiddly brewers if you’re talking about installing a coffee machine for your office – unless you’re working from home of course.
Since Australians drink an average of 2.7 cups of coffee per day, you can feel confident that it’s not just you who’ll be interested in this exciting office addition. But also consider the nature of the working day for you and your team. Is your work centralised, beginning with a group meeting at a set time, or a boardroom activity? In that case, a reliable, high-volume machine that can consistently pump out quality shots of coffee is essential to meet the demand.
Alternatively, if you run an operation that sees people taking a more autonomous approach to their workload, you may only need the space for a smaller capsule coffee machine, that can provide personalised coffee exactly when it’s wanted throughout the day.
2. Water Capacity & Storage
The water capacity will be impacted by the overall size, but not all coffee machines are made equal. When we’re talking about water capacity, we mean the size of the water tank or reservoir embedded in the machine. However, if you have an extra-large or heavy duty coffee machine that’s connected to the mains or runs on plumbing, then an added bonus is a limitless water supply on demand, so you won’t ever have to worry about running out.
Too large, and you’ll have colleagues drinking stale water – which defeats the purpose of upgrading your office with a premium, reliable coffee machine. Too small, and you’ll end up constantly refilling it, with a coffee-making process that takes half an hour to fix up everyone in your team. In this case, we’re switching fairytales to look at Goldilocks for inspiration: find one with a water tank volume that is just right.
Similarly, a drip tray is where runoff liquid is stored after the coffee preparation process. Choose one with an adequate volume, that won’t need clearing out every few hours but is equally easy to dismantle, clean and re-attach when you do need to.
3. The Type Of Machine (Or The Level Of Effort)
There are many different types of coffee machines to choose from, and if you’re a business owner or office decorator who already knows exactly what to look for in a coffee machine – go for it.
Between each one, there are small varieties between how the coffee is prepared, and how it tastes as a result. But, if you’re not a coffee connoisseur, and don’t have too much desire to become one, instead consider how much time you’d feasibly be able to spend (or have the patience for) to create that perfect cup of coffee each day.
Traditional espresso machines offer the most authentic experience, and if you won’t settle for less than your barista-grade coffee, learning how to grind, tamp and purge from bean to cappuccino will be worth it. Alternatively, if you wish there was just a magic button you could press and have the perfect coffee appear before your eyes, your fairy godmother will come in the form of an automatic coffee machine.
And for those in the middle, who still prioritise superior quality coffee made from fresh beans without getting your hands dirty, filter coffee machines offer high-volume drinking solutions (and they’re also really easy to transport if you need to travel for work, or have clients coming to you).
4. The Steam Wand
Surprising to see how similar knowing what to look for in a coffee machine is to classic fairy tales, isn’t it? Next up, the magic (steam) wand and its properties should be considered, in line with what kind of coffee drinkers you and your office colleagues are.Â
For espresso and filter drinkers, a milk wand might not be so useful. But for those who love to cradle a flat white, latte – or even treat themselves to a hot chocolate on a particularly grey, rainy afternoon, a milk frother or steam wand can soon become an office’s most valuable asset.
In more traditional models, a steam wand will give greater control and allow you to create foamy, frothy, silky or velvety milk texture as you wish. For more modern or automatic designs, milk frothing will be automated, and set to a timer or thickness. It’s really up to personal preference.
5. Quality & Safety
The evil witch of the corporate coffee machine world is any manufacturer selling products without a ‘BPA-free’ sticker. BPA is a harmful chemical that can be released in plastic products when exposed to hot liquids, which is why you want to look for these ‘BPA-free’ labels on the side of coffee machines to ensure you won’t come into contact with it.
Other safety concerns to look out for are the absence of visible wires, leaking water, and strange smells or sounds when the machine turns on. If your current office coffee machine is suffering from these common coffee machine issues and woes, our technical team will be happy to advise and determine whether it can be repaired.
Beyond that, what to look for in a coffee machine should be features that is well-designed, easy for those in your office to use, and simple to maintain will become a great investment that keeps brains whirring.
Finding The Right Coffee Machine For Your Business
Choosing the perfect coffee machine for your office isn’t just about taste—it’s about efficiency, cost, and employee satisfaction. Whether you’re running a small startup, a mid-sized agency, or a large corporation, the right machine can boost productivity and morale. You can also read our guide on how to use a coffee machine to know if it is right for you.
Below is a detailed comparison of the best office coffee machines based on business size, coffee quality, and cost-effectiveness.
Best Coffee Machines for Small Offices
| Machine | Type | Pros | Cons | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nespresso Zenius | Capsule | Quick, compact, easy maintenance | Higher cost per cup | Startups, home offices | $400 – $600 |
| Jura E6 | Super-Automatic | High-quality espresso, milk frother | Larger size | Small teams, client meetings | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Breville Barista Pro | Semi-Automatic | Customisable, fresh coffee | Requires manual effort | Coffee enthusiasts | $800 – $1,200 |
Best Coffee Machines for Medium Offices
| Machine | Type | Pros | Cons | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jura Giga X8 | Bean-to-Cup | High capacity, self-cleaning | Expensive | Growing businesses | $5,000 – $7,000 |
| De’Longhi Eletta | Super-Automatic | One-touch cappuccino | Slower for high-volume use | Hybrid workspaces | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| WMF 1100S | Commercial Bean-to-Cup | Programmable, energy-efficient | Requires water connection | Office break rooms | $3,500 – $5,000 |
Best Coffee Machines for Large Offices
| Machine | Type | Pros | Cons | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jura Giga X3 | Bean-to-Cup | 100+ cups per day, fast | High initial cost | Corporate HQs, co-working spaces | $7,000+ |
| Franke A600 | Super-Automatic | Touchscreen, multiple drink options | Large footprint | High-traffic offices | $8,000+ |
| WMF 1500S | Commercial Bean-to-Cup | Built-in grinder, milk frother | Expensive | Large enterprises | $10,000+ |
Should You Lease or Buy A Coffee Machine?
When investing in a coffee machine for your office, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to buy or lease. While owning a machine outright provides long-term savings, leasing offers flexibility and lower upfront costs. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best choice for your business.
Buying a Coffee Machine
Purchasing a coffee machine outright means a one-time investment with no recurring payments. This can be a great option for businesses that want to reduce long-term costs and have full control over their equipment.
Benefits of Buying:
- One-time cost, no recurring payments – Once you buy the machine, it’s yours. You won’t have to worry about monthly fees, making this a cost-effective choice in the long run.
- Long-term savings – While the upfront cost may seem high, owning a machine can be more affordable over several years compared to ongoing lease payments.
- More customisation options – When you own a coffee machine, you have the freedom to modify or upgrade it without restrictions, allowing you to tailor it to your office’s needs.
Drawbacks of Buying:
- Higher initial investment – Purchasing a high-quality machine requires a significant upfront cost, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the model and features.
- Maintenance responsibilities – As the owner, you’ll need to cover repair and servicing costs, which can add up over time, especially for high-end machines.
- Risk of becoming outdated – Coffee machine technology evolves quickly. If you buy a model today, a more advanced version with better features may be available in just a few years, making your investment less future-proof.
Leasing a Coffee Machine
Leasing a coffee machine is an attractive option for businesses that want lower upfront costs and built-in maintenance support. With a lease, you make monthly payments to use the machine without the commitment of full ownership.
Benefits of Leasing:
- Lower initial costs – Instead of paying thousands upfront, leasing allows businesses to access high-end machines for a manageable monthly fee. This is ideal for companies that want to preserve cash flow.
- Maintenance & servicing included – Most leasing agreements come with regular servicing, repairs, and replacements, ensuring your machine stays in top condition with minimal hassle.
- Flexibility to upgrade – Leasing allows you to switch to newer models as your business grows, ensuring you always have the latest technology without needing to buy a new machine.
Drawbacks of Leasing:
- Monthly fees add up – Over time, the total cost of leasing can exceed the price of buying a machine outright, especially if the contract lasts for several years.
- Long-term expenses can be higher – While leasing minimises initial costs, businesses may end up paying more in the long run compared to an upfront purchase.
- Potential hidden fees – Some leasing contracts may include unexpected charges, such as early termination fees or mandatory servicing costs, making it essential to read the fine print.
Which Option Is Right For Your Business?
The choice between buying and leasing depends on your budget, long-term plans, and coffee consumption needs. If you prefer a one-time investment with long-term savings, buying a machine may be the better option. However, if you want flexibility, lower upfront costs, and hassle-free maintenance, leasing could be the smarter choice.
Sustainability & Eco-Friendly Impact of Coffee Machines and What To Look For
As businesses become more eco-conscious, choosing a sustainable coffee machine is an important factor in reducing waste, lowering energy consumption, and minimising environmental impact. While coffee is an essential part of office culture, the way it is brewed can significantly affect sustainability. Let’s explore the key factors that determine how eco-friendly a coffee machine is and how your business can make better, greener choices.
Energy-Saving Mode
Many modern coffee machines have an automatic power-saving function that reduces energy use when the machine is idle. This can cut electricity consumption by up to 30%, making a significant difference in a high-usage office environment.
Biodegradable Coffee Pods & Grounds Management
Traditional single-use plastic pods contribute to landfill waste, but many brands now offer compostable or recyclable capsules. Bean-to-cup machines are an even better alternative, as they use whole coffee beans, leaving behind only biodegradable coffee grounds.
Built-in Water Filters
Some coffee machines come with built-in filtration systems, eliminating the need for bottled water and reducing plastic waste. These filters also extend the lifespan of the machine by preventing limescale buildup, reducing maintenance needs.
Recyclable & Durable Materials
Choosing machines made from stainless steel, BPA-free plastics, and recycled materials ensures less environmental impact compared to models with excessive plastic components.
Final Thoughts On What To Look For In A Coffee Machine
Like all fairytales, the journey for your coffee machine needs a happy ending. When browsing, if you follow our tips and consider the size, water capacity, style and quality of the machine (and steam wand), and make decisions informed from your work-day perspective, you’ll be able to narrow down the endless list of choices into a handful of eligible suitors.
The better news is that we’ve already done the hard work for you, and split up our premium coffee machines into those most relevant for small offices, medium enterprises and large companies, so you’re faced with a slightly less intimidating list to pick from.
Don’t forget, our highly-trained team is passionate about providing quality customer service. So reach out with your coffee questions and queries, and we’ll set you up with a dream machine for your office like the coffee matchmakers we are. No kissing of frogs is required.
Wherever you’re based in Australia, contact us today or send us an email for a free quote and more information on what to look for in a coffee machine for the office.
