Is a coffee maker a good gift? Coffee experts explain what to consider

A coffee maker can be a thoughtful and practical gift, making the recipient's mornings more enjoyable and saving them money on costly coffee shop runs. But there are important factors to consider to ensure this investment is the right present. This will depend on a range of factors, including the recipient's coffee preferences and lifestyle.

With Christmas right around the corner, and birthdays always on the horizon, a coffee maker can be the perfect gift for coffee lovers, since it adds a touch of luxury and convenience to the daily routines of whoever is lucky enough to receive one. However, these machines can be costly investments, so it's important to be sure it will be well-received, and that you get the best model for the person you are gifting. 

Our experts have explained what to consider to determine whether a coffee maker is a good gift, and how to choose the best coffee maker for its new owner, whether you are buying a coffee maker for beginners, or an experienced barista.

Is a coffee maker a good gift?

Kayla Stavridis, head of marketing at BaristaHQ explains, 'A coffee maker can be an excellent gift for several reasons:

'Personal touch: If they're coffee enthusiasts or frequently purchase coffee, it's a thoughtful gesture that suggests you understand their daily rituals and pleasures.

'Practicality: Unlike decorative items, a coffee maker serves a daily functional purpose. For many, coffee is an essential morning ritual, making this gift not just thoughtful but also incredibly useful.

'Longevity: High-quality coffee makers can last for years. This means that every morning when the recipient brews their coffee, they'll remember the thoughtful gift and the person who gave it to them.

That said, there are a couple of things to consider before gifting.

1. Consider their coffee habits

To determine if this appliance is a good gift and to narrow down the best type of coffee maker to purchase, consider the recipient's lifestyle and coffee habits. 

Consider options such as drip coffee makers, espresso machines, French presses, or single-serve devices, and select a coffee maker that aligns with the recipient's needs.

'Be thoughtful when choosing which coffee maker to purchase for this person. If they have a large family who might also be drinking coffee with them or regularly entertain guests, I would steer clear of single cup coffee makers,' recommends Amanda Wiss founder of Urban Clarity. 'If the gift recipient lives alone then there is no need to purchase a 12 cup coffee maker. The next thing to consider: are they coffee or espresso drinkers?'

For a busy professional, a programmable coffee maker that brews a fresh pot in the morning might be a perfect addition to their routine, such as the Philips 3200 LatteGo, available at Amazon. We liked it when we tested it, but it's very expensive. On the other hand, for a coffee connoisseur, an espresso machine like the KitchenAid Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine, available at Crate & Barrel, could be a cherished gift. 

While some may appreciate the versatility of a model with features such as programmable timers, adjustable brew strength, different types of coffees, and automatic maintenance, others may prefer the simplicity of single-serve machines for convenience. Understanding their coffee habits is crucial in selecting the right type of coffee maker.

Additionally, consider that some individuals will have a preferred method of making coffee, which they may not be keen to stray from, so before buying a coffee maker, ensure you are choosing a model that they will enjoy using. 

2. Consider their kitchen aesthetic and space

Investigate the recipient's kitchen setup, storage space and kitchen aesthetics to ensure you choose a coffee maker that fits well with this and doesn't become clutter.

While a large, high-tech coffee maker with plenty of options may seem fitting to the person you are gifting, if they have a kitchen with limited countertop space, a compact coffee maker would be more suitable. Similarly, if they opt for a minimalist kitchen countertop aesthetic without any kitchen appliances, they may not thank you for a large, bulky machine.

You should also consider the color choice and style of the coffee maker depending on their kitchen decor. For example, in a kitchen with a rustic aesthetic, a modern coffee machine may look out of place, but one with a classic design will fit with the design style of its recipient. 

3. Search with budget and quality in mind

Quality matters when it comes to investing in a coffee maker, and a poor quality machine can be inefficient and mean the coffee machine will need to be replaced sooner.

Quality coffee makers tend to produce better-tasting coffee, have longer lifespans, and are often easier to clean and maintain.

'The next question is budget. Put simply, how much are you willing to pay?' asks James Hyslop, coffee journalist and manager of The Coffee Folk.

'Once you know how much you are willing to spend, it is worth talking to an expert about what are the best options in the price range. Any barista, coffee website, or even (at a push) homeware/appliance store should be able to point you in the right direction.'

While staying budget-conscious, look for a durable and reliable machine. You could also look for reputable brands known for their coffee-making equipment, such as Breville, Nespresso, Keurig, or Technivorm Moccamaster, to ensure the gift is of top quality.

FAQs

Gifting a coffee maker involves putting yourself in the shoes of the person receiving it, but by considering these factors, you'll be sure to choose the right model.