If you love coffee, you will enjoy a good machine, but not every coffee lover wants the same thing: some enjoy the ritual of a portafilter, others simply want to press a button in the morning. So that the gift really fits, here is a decision guide and three gift ideas from our shop.
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1. Which coffee type is the person you are buying for?
| Type | What matters | Suitable gift idea |
|---|---|---|
| The tinkerer | Craft, ritual, making espresso yourself | Portafilter machine |
| The everyday enjoyer | Fresh coffee at the touch of a button, little effort | Fully automatic coffee machine |
| The milky coffee fan | Latte macchiato, cappuccino, milk foam | Fully automatic with milk system |
| Little space in the kitchen | Slim machine that fits anywhere | Compact portafilter machine |
If in doubt, simply ask: How does the person drink their coffee, and how much time do they take for it in the morning?
2. Three gift ideas from our shop
De'Longhi Dedica Style EC 685: for everyone who loves espresso
The Dedica Style is a portafilter machine and, according to the manufacturer, only 15 cm wide, so it fits into small kitchens too. It works with 15 bar pump pressure and, according to the manufacturer, is ready in about 40 seconds. The portafilter is designed for one or two cups as well as ESE pods, the milk frother nozzle is adjustable, and the cup rest can also take taller glasses. To be honest: the machine has no grinder, so you need ground coffee, ESE pods or a separate coffee grinder, and the milk is frothed by hand. If you want to discover espresso as a hobby, this is a compact way in, but it takes some practice.
👉 View the De'Longhi Dedica Style
Philips Fully Automatic Coffee Machine 2200: beans in, press a button
The Philips 2200 is a fully automatic coffee machine with a ceramic grinder and a classic milk frother. It prepares espresso and coffee; on this model the milk is frothed by hand. For anyone who wants fresh beans but does not want to learn portafilter technique, it is an uncomplicated start.
👉 View the Philips Fully Automatic Coffee Machine 2200
Philips LatteGo 5400: milky coffee at the touch of a button
According to the manufacturer, the Philips 5400 offers 12 coffee specialities, a ceramic grinder and the LatteGo milk system for cappuccino and latte macchiato. It also has 4 user profiles, so several people in the household can save their favourite recipes. According to the manufacturer, the milk system consists of just a few parts and is dishwasher safe. A fitting gift for families and couples who like milky coffee.
👉 View the Philips LatteGo 5400
We compare the two fully automatic machines in detail in our guide Giving a fully automatic coffee machine: 2200 or LatteGo?. If you are interested in a portafilter machine, Portafilter machines for beginners will help.
3. Portafilter or fully automatic: the main differences
- Effort: The fully automatic machine grinds, brews and ejects the coffee grounds itself. With a portafilter, dosing, tamping and cleaning are part of the ritual.
- Learning curve: A good espresso from a portafilter takes practice and suitable ground coffee. Some people enjoy that, others find it annoying.
- Milk: The LatteGo system makes milk foam at the touch of a button. With the Dedica you froth the milk by hand.
- Space: The Dedica is especially slim. Fully automatic machines are usually wider.
- Care: All machines need regular cleaning and descaling. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
4. Small extras to give
- Good coffee beans or ground coffee: A roast from a local roastery makes the gift personal.
- Nice cups or glasses: To match the espresso or the latte macchiato.
- Descaler as specified by the manufacturer: Practical and almost always needed.
You will find more ideas in our guides Christmas gifts 2026 and Christmas gifts for men as well as under Gift ideas.
Frequently asked questions
What do you give coffee lovers for Christmas?
A good machine that fits the type: a portafilter for tinkerers, a fully automatic machine for everyday use. Fresh beans or nice cups go well with it.
Portafilter or fully automatic: which is easier?
The fully automatic machine is clearly easier because it grinds and brews. The portafilter takes more practice but rewards you with craft and the espresso ritual.
Does the Dedica need a grinder?
The Dedica Style has no grinder of its own. You can use ground coffee, ESE pods or beans from a separate grinder.
Which machine is suitable for milky coffee?
According to the manufacturer, the Philips LatteGo 5400 prepares milk specialities at the touch of a button. With the Dedica and the Philips 2200 the milk is frothed by hand.
By when should I order?
Ideally at the beginning of December. You can see the exact delivery times with the respective seller.
All information without guarantee and according to manufacturer data. Current prices, equipment and reviews can be found with the respective seller. Images are symbolic images.