Smeg Bean To Cup Coffee Machine - Black vs 50's Style Espresso Coffee Machine with Grinder - White — Comparison

The Smeg BCC12BLMUK is a black bean-to-cup machine at £599, with a ceramic disc grinder, a 1350W motor, a 19-bar pump and four programmes. The Smeg EGF03WHUK is a white 50's Style espresso machine with grinder at £699, with a 20-bar pump, an integrated grinder, a cup warmer and a dual cup function. The second costs £100 more and offers more in its specification, so the two are not simply colour variants.

In daily use, the Smeg EGF03WHUK gives more control: adjustable water temperature, drink strength control, a 2.4-litre removable reservoir and the option of making two cups at once. The Smeg BCC12BLMUK is far narrower at 180mm, against 334mm for the white model, which suits a small worktop. It has no water level indicator and a 1.4-litre tank, and both machines include a steam wand for milky drinks.

Reviewers of the black Smeg praise its looks, simple set-up and easy cleaning, and many say the coffee is good for the price. Complaints are mostly about the milk: the frother is described as bubbly and less silky than a rival's, and the grounds tray needs emptying often. Reviewers of the white model mostly describe strong coffee and a stylish look, though some say the grind and water settings take a few tries to programme. One buyer notes the upfront cost is high but feels the coffee pays back against pods.

Bottom line: choose the Smeg BCC12BLMUK if you want a slimmer, simpler machine at £599 for a small kitchen, choose the Smeg EGF03WHUK if you want temperature and strength control, dual cups and a cup warmer for £699.