Honest home coffee and espresso gear guides

Better coffee starts on your counter.

Clear buying guides and brewing how-tos for home baristas: espresso machines, grinders, pour-over gear and beans, explained without the jargon.

Latest guides

Beans & Subscriptions

How to Store Coffee Beans to Keep Them Fresh

How to store coffee beans at home, why air, light, heat and moisture matter, the best containers, whether to freeze coffee and how to…
Brewing Methods

Best Drip Coffee Makers: Features That Matter and Models to Compare

How to choose a drip coffee maker, including brewing temperature, showerhead design, thermal vs. glass carafes, programmability and SCA certification, plus popular models to…
Machine Care

How to Clean a Coffee Grinder: Burr and Blade Grinder Care

Step-by-step instructions for cleaning burr and blade coffee grinders, how often to clean, grinder cleaning tablets vs. rice, and tips to keep grinders working…
Brewing Methods

French Press vs. AeroPress: Which Brewer Is Right for You?

Compare the French press and AeroPress by flavor, body, capacity, ease of use, cleanup and portability, with starter recipes for each brewer.
Grinders

Best Coffee Grinders for Beginners: Electric and Manual Options

How to choose a first coffee grinder, comparing popular entry-level electric and manual burr grinders such as the Baratza Encore, OXO Brew, Fellow Opus…
Espresso

How to Dial In Espresso: A Step-by-Step Guide for Home Baristas

Learn how to dial in espresso at home using dose, yield, time and grind size, with a starting recipe, taste-based troubleshooting and tips for…