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10 Best Sca Coffee Makers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Breville Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine BES881BTR, Black Truffle

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,146
Build Quality and Durability

Most important from
570 reviews

Build Quality and Durability
The build quality is robust and solid, feeling like a machine that will last a lifetime.

The Breville Barista Touch Impress Espresso Machine is an advanced coffee maker designed for home use, offering a range of features that cater to coffee enthusiasts. One of its standout strengths is the ThermoJet heating system, which heats up in just 3 seconds, allowing you to brew coffee quickly. The integrated conical burr grinder with 30 settings ensures you get the perfect grind for maximum flavor, while the assisted tamping and precise extraction system take the guesswork out of making espresso, providing consistent results every time.

The auto milk frother with alternative milk settings is another highlight, enabling the creation of silky smooth microfoam essential for lattes and cappuccinos. The touchscreen interface is user-friendly, providing step-by-step guidance and customizable drink options, making it easy even for beginners to use. On the capacity front, the machine has a robust build with a removable tank, although its dimensions might require a bit of counter space. Cleaning and maintenance are simplified by removable components, but some users might find the process still a bit cumbersome due to the multiple parts involved.

In terms of build quality, the machine boasts a durable construction, which suggests it will last for a long time with proper care. However, the multitude of features and advanced technology come at a higher price point, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. This espresso machine is ideal for those who are serious about their coffee and are willing to invest in a high-quality, feature-rich device that offers convenience and professional-level results at home.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,146
Build Quality and Durability

Most important from
570 reviews

Build Quality and Durability
The build quality is robust and solid, feeling like a machine that will last a lifetime.
#2

Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel

Rating
9.4
Ease of Cleaning
Build Quality and Durability

Most important from
1147 reviews

Ease of Cleaning
Although the machine requires regular maintenance, the tools provided make it manageable.
Build Quality and Durability
The build quality is robust, with convenient features like a tool tray attached to the drip tray.

The Breville Barista Express Impress Espresso Machine BES876BSS is an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts looking to replicate barista-quality espresso at home. One standout feature is its intelligent dosing system, which ensures the perfect amount of coffee grounds every time, removing much of the guesswork in manual espresso making. Additionally, the machine offers 25 grind settings, allowing users to fine-tune their coffee to their desired taste.

The Thermocoil heating system with PID control maintains precise brewing temperature, which is crucial for extracting the best flavors from coffee beans. The microfoam steam wand is another highlight, enabling users to create professional-level latte art and enhance the texture and taste of their milk-based drinks. With a 2-liter water tank and a 250g capacity bean hopper, the machine is suitable for households that consume a significant amount of coffee daily.

The build quality is robust, featuring a brushed stainless steel finish that not only looks sleek but is also durable. However, some users might find the machine's 23.7-pound weight rather heavy, making it less portable. The manual features, while offering a professional touch, might be a bit challenging for complete beginners. Moreover, the machine requires regular cleaning, which can be time-consuming due to the multiple components included. In terms of programmable features, the Barista Express Impress has preset single or double shot options and allows customization of brew temperature and shot volume, which adds to its versatility. This espresso machine is best suited for those who are willing to spend some time mastering their coffee-making skills and appreciate the quality and customization it offers.

Rating
9.4
Ease of Cleaning
Build Quality and Durability

Most important from
1147 reviews

Ease of Cleaning
Although the machine requires regular maintenance, the tools provided make it manageable.
Build Quality and Durability
The build quality is robust, with convenient features like a tool tray attached to the drip tray.
#3

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine BES500BSS, Brushed Stainless Steel

Rating
8.8
Brewing Temperature
Brewing Time
Capacity

Most important from
2444 reviews

Brewing Temperature
Heats up incredibly fast, reaching optimal brewing temperature within seconds, perfect for those who want quality espresso quickly.
Brewing Time
Heats up incredibly fast, reaching optimal brewing temperature within seconds, perfect for those who want quality espresso quickly.
Capacity
Compact and stylish design fits neatly on the countertop, saving space without compromising on performance.
Programmable Features
Automatic steam wand textures milk beautifully, allowing for creamy microfoam and impressive latte art with minimal effort.
Ease of Cleaning
The portafilter contains a plastic component that can trap residue, prompting users to upgrade to a bottomless portafilter for easier cleaning and enhanced flavor exploration.
Build Quality and Durability
Sturdy stainless steel build ensures durability and a premium feel, supporting long-term use without reliability concerns.

The Breville Bambino Plus is a compact, semi-automatic espresso machine designed to deliver high-quality specialty coffee at home. One of its standout features is the fast heat-up time thanks to the ThermoJet heating system, reaching the ideal brewing temperature in just 3 seconds, which is great if you want espresso quickly. It maintains precise temperature control (PID), ensuring your espresso extraction stays balanced and flavorful. Its pre-infusion system gently increases water pressure at the start, helping to pull the best flavors from your coffee grounds. With a 54mm portafilter that holds 19 grams of coffee, it supports good dose control for consistent taste.

The machine includes an automatic steam wand that textures milk to your preferred temperature and froth level, making it easier to craft latte art and enjoy creamy microfoam. It also auto-purges after steaming to keep the temperature right for your next shot. The capacity is moderate with a 480ml milk jug included, suitable for 1-2 cups at a time, fitting well for small households or individuals. Programmable features focus mainly on adjusting milk temperature and texture rather than extensive custom brewing profiles.

Cleaning is made simpler with included tools and auto purge, though regular maintenance is still needed due to its semi-automatic nature. The stainless steel build is sturdy and compact, fitting neatly on most countertops without taking much space. If you want a machine with large water capacity or full automation, this might feel limited. It also relies on ground coffee, so you’ll need a separate grinder for best results. The Bambino Plus is suitable for espresso lovers who want quick, consistent, and quality shots with some milk frothing flexibility, packaged in a durable and user-friendly machine.

Rating
8.8
Brewing Temperature
Brewing Time
Capacity

Most important from
2444 reviews

Brewing Temperature
Heats up incredibly fast, reaching optimal brewing temperature within seconds, perfect for those who want quality espresso quickly.
Brewing Time
Heats up incredibly fast, reaching optimal brewing temperature within seconds, perfect for those who want quality espresso quickly.
Capacity
Compact and stylish design fits neatly on the countertop, saving space without compromising on performance.
Programmable Features
Automatic steam wand textures milk beautifully, allowing for creamy microfoam and impressive latte art with minimal effort.
Ease of Cleaning
The portafilter contains a plastic component that can trap residue, prompting users to upgrade to a bottomless portafilter for easier cleaning and enhanced flavor exploration.
Build Quality and Durability
Sturdy stainless steel build ensures durability and a premium feel, supporting long-term use without reliability concerns.

Buying Guide for the Best Sca Coffee Makers

When it comes to picking the right SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) certified coffee maker, it's important to understand that these machines are designed to meet high standards for brewing quality coffee. The SCA certification ensures that the coffee maker can consistently brew coffee at the optimal temperature, time, and extraction levels. To choose the best coffee maker for your needs, you should consider several key specifications that will impact your brewing experience and the quality of your coffee. Here are the key specs to look out for and how to navigate them.
Brewing TemperatureBrewing temperature refers to the temperature of the water used to brew the coffee. This is important because the right temperature ensures proper extraction of flavors from the coffee grounds. The SCA standard for brewing temperature is between 195°F and 205°F. If you prefer a coffee maker that allows you to adjust the temperature, look for models with this feature. For most users, a machine that maintains a consistent temperature within the SCA range will be sufficient.
Brewing TimeBrewing time is the duration it takes for the coffee maker to complete the brewing process. This is crucial because too short or too long brewing times can result in under-extracted or over-extracted coffee, respectively. The SCA standard recommends a total brew time of 4 to 8 minutes. If you are often in a hurry, a coffee maker with a shorter brewing time might be more convenient. However, for those who prioritize flavor, a machine that adheres to the SCA recommended brewing time will produce the best results.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of coffee the machine can brew at one time, usually measured in cups. This is important because it determines how much coffee you can make in one go. Coffee makers typically range from single-serve to 12-cup capacities. If you live alone or are the only coffee drinker in your household, a smaller capacity machine might be sufficient. For families or those who entertain guests frequently, a larger capacity machine would be more appropriate.
Programmable FeaturesProgrammable features include settings that allow you to customize your brewing experience, such as setting a timer, adjusting brew strength, or scheduling automatic brewing. These features are important for convenience and personalization. If you have a busy schedule, a coffee maker with programmable features can ensure you have fresh coffee ready when you need it. For those who enjoy experimenting with different brew strengths, look for machines that offer this option.
Ease of CleaningEase of cleaning refers to how simple it is to clean and maintain the coffee maker. This is important for hygiene and the longevity of the machine. Some coffee makers have removable parts that are dishwasher safe, while others may require manual cleaning. If you prefer low-maintenance appliances, look for a coffee maker with easy-to-clean features. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent buildup and ensure the best tasting coffee.
Build Quality and DurabilityBuild quality and durability refer to the materials and construction of the coffee maker. This is important because a well-built machine will last longer and perform better over time. Coffee makers can be made from plastic, stainless steel, or a combination of materials. If you want a machine that will withstand daily use and last for years, look for one with high-quality materials and solid construction. Stainless steel components are often more durable than plastic ones.

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