Finding the best affordable coffee maker for small kitchens in the UK can be a bit tricky, especially when space is limited, but the good news is that there are plenty of compact and budget-friendly options available. Whether you’re a fan of espresso, filter coffee, or a simple pod machine, there’s something to suit your taste and space requirements.
In this guide, we’ll cover some of the top picks for coffee makers that are not only affordable but also compact enough to fit perfectly into a small kitchen.
Step-by-Step Guide Best Affordable Coffee Maker for Small Kitchens in the UK
1. De’Longhi Dedica Style EC685
One of the best compact espresso machines on the market is the De’Longhi Dedica Style EC685. This sleek, space-saving coffee maker is only 15cm wide, making it perfect for small kitchens. Despite its size, it delivers high-quality espresso shots and allows you to froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos.
Key Features:
- 15 bar pressure, perfect for a rich espresso
- Adjustable cup size to accommodate different preferences
- Built-in milk frother for creamy lattes & cappuccinos
- Fast heat-up time
Price: While it’s on the pricier side for a budget option (typically around £150), its durability and functionality make it a good long-term investment for espresso lovers.
2. Nespresso Essenza Mini
For pod coffee lovers, the Nespresso Essenza Mini is one of the most compact and affordable Nespresso machines available. It’s perfect for small kitchens and delivers high-quality coffee with Nespresso’s signature capsules. The Essenza Mini is incredibly easy to use and requires minimal cleanup.
Key Features:
- Compact design, takes up minimal counter space
- Simple, one-touch operation
- High-pressure pump (19 bars) for great espresso
- Energy-efficient with automatic shut-off
Price: Available for under £100, making it one of the more affordable Nespresso machines.
Cons: You’ll need to stick to Nespresso-compatible capsules, which can be more expensive than ground coffee, but the convenience and quality of coffee make it worthwhile for many.
3. Breville One-Touch CoffeeHouse
If you’re looking for a versatile machine that can do both espresso and cappuccinos but don’t want to break the bank, the Breville One-Touch CoffeeHouse is a great option. It’s slightly larger than the De’Longhi Dedica but still compact enough to fit in most small kitchens.
Key Features:
- One-touch options for espresso, cappuccino, and latte
- 19-bar Italian pump for strong, rich coffee
- Automatic milk frother for consistent milk foam
- Adjustable cup stand
Price: At around £150-£180, it’s a mid-range machine that offers a lot of functionality for the price.
4. Aeropress
For those who want a manual, budget-friendly coffee maker that doesn’t take up any counter space, the Aeropress is a fantastic option. This small, portable device is perfect for making a smooth, rich coffee or espresso-style drink without any electrical components. It’s ideal for small kitchens or even for travel.
Key Features:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Makes coffee in just a few minutes
- Easy to clean
- Can make both espresso-style and regular coffee
Price: The Aeropress is very affordable, typically costing around £25-£30.
Cons: It requires manual effort to press the coffee, and while it’s great for single servings, it’s not ideal if you want to brew for multiple people at once.
5. V60 Pour Over Coffee Dripper
The Hario V60 Pour Over Coffee Dripper is another affordable and minimalist option for small kitchens. This manual pour-over method is simple to use and doesn’t require any electricity. It’s perfect for coffee aficionados who appreciate the hands-on brewing process.
Key Features:
- Compact and easy to store
- Allows precise control over the brewing process
- Available in various sizes to brew for one or more people
Price: At around £10-£20, it’s one of the most affordable coffee-making options out there.
Cons: The brewing process is manual and takes a little more time than an automatic machine.
6. Krups Opio Steam and Pump Espresso Machine
The Krups Opio is another excellent budget espresso machine for those with limited space. It’s compact but powerful, allowing you to make barista-quality espresso at home. It also features a steam nozzle for frothing milk, making it suitable for lattes and cappuccinos.
Key Features:
- 15-bar pump for strong espresso
- Steam nozzle for milk frothing
- Compact design for small kitchens
- Easy-to-use controls
Price: Generally priced under £100, it’s a great budget option for espresso lovers.
7. Russell Hobbs 22630 Compact Filter Coffee Machine
If you prefer a classic filter coffee machine, the Russell Hobbs 22630 is a great compact option for small kitchens. It’s a filter coffee machine that’s perfect for making larger quantities of coffee, but its small footprint ensures it won’t take up too much space.
Key Features:
- Compact design with a 1.25L capacity
- Glass carafe for easy serving
- Integrated coffee scoop
- Keep-warm function
Price: Available for around £25-£30, making it an affordable choice for filter coffee lovers.
8. Lavazza A Modo Mio Tiny
The Lavazza A Modo Mio Tiny is another pod machine that is perfect for small kitchens. It’s compact and stylish, offering quick, high-quality coffee using Lavazza’s own capsules.
Key Features:
- Ultra-compact design
- Compatible with Lavazza coffee pods
- Easy to use with one-touch operation
Price: Priced at around £50, it’s an affordable and space-saving option for pod coffee enthusiasts.
9. Swan Nordic Espresso Coffee Machine
For those seeking a budget-friendly espresso machine that adds a stylish touch to the kitchen, the Swan Nordic Espresso Coffee Machine fits the bill. It’s compact but offers plenty of features for its price, including a steam wand for frothing milk.
Key Features:
- 15-bar pressure for good espresso
- Steam wand for milk frothing
- Stylish Nordic design
Price: Typically priced around £80-£100, this is one of the more affordable espresso machines with a modern aesthetic.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing the best affordable coffee maker for small kitchens in the UK, there are several great options depending on your preferences. For espresso lovers, the De’Longhi Dedica Style EC685 and Krups Opio offer barista-style coffee at home without taking up too much counter space. If you prefer pod coffee, the Nespresso Essenza Mini or Lavazza A Modo Mio Tiny are compact and budget-friendly. For manual coffee enthusiasts, the Aeropress and Hario V60 provide affordable and space-saving solutions.
No matter what your preference is, you don’t have to compromise on quality or space when selecting a coffee maker for your small kitchen.
