Joybuy Insights

Beverage Makers 2026: A Technical Selection Guide

By Joybuy

Updated June 2026

5 Min Read

Preparing hot and cold drinks at home is supported by a wide array of specialised electrical appliances. These beverage makers range from the classic coffee machine to the modern plant-based milk maker. Choosing the right appliance depends on individual needs, desired beverage types, and technical specifications. This guide breaks down the essential criteria to consider when deciding on a beverage maker and showcases a selection of appliances with distinct areas of focus.

Buyer's Guide: Technical Criteria for Appliance Selection

Your choice of beverage maker should be based on an analysis of objective parameters. The following technical aspects are crucial for making a well-informed selection.

Appliance Type and Primary Use Case

First, define its primary use. Are you looking for an appliance for quick coffee brewing, for creating plant-based milk alternatives, or for heating water on the go?

Coffee and Espresso Machines: These include capsule machines, portafilter machines, and drip coffee makers. Key parameters here are pump pressure (measured in bar), heat-up time, and compatibility with capsule or bean systems. An integrated milk frother expands the range of functions.
Kettles: In addition to standard models, there are specialised devices like the travel kettle or models with precise temperature control, which is important for preparing different types of tea. A small kettle is optimised for single-person households or mobile use.
Plant-Based and Soy Milk Makers: These appliances, also known as nut milk makers, combine blending and heating functions to create fresh drinks from nuts, seeds, or grains. Important features include motor power, the number and material of the blades, and integrated cleaning and timer functions.

Material Quality and Safety

The materials that come into contact with food are of critical importance.

Stainless Steel: In particular, 304 stainless steel (also known as 1.4301 in Germany) is a commonly used material for the inner containers of kettles and blenders. It is considered food-safe, corrosion-resistant, and durable.
Plastics: For plastic components, look for the BPA-free designation to prevent the leaching of Bisphenol A into your food and beverages.
Safety Features: Functions like overheat protection, an automatic shut-off feature, and a leak-proof design increase operational safety, especially for portable devices.

Performance, Capacity, and Dimensions

Technical performance data determines the appliance's efficiency and ease of use.

Power (Watts): A higher wattage generally leads to shorter heating or blending times. For heating appliances, values typically range from 300 W (for portable devices) to over 2000 W (for large kettles).
Capacity (Litres): The capacity should be matched to the household size. A small kettle with a 0.3 to 0.5-litre capacity is sufficient for one person, while families will benefit from appliances with 1 litre or more.
Dimensions: In kitchens with limited space, compact small kitchen appliances are advantageous. The exact dimensions (H x W x D) should be checked against the available space before purchasing.

Our 2026 Picks

Based on the aforementioned technical criteria, we are showcasing three appliances from different categories.

1. Bear 300 ml Electric Kettle, 3-in-1 Portable Small Fast Heating Insulation Cup

Why we recommend it: This appliance combines the functions of a kettle, a thermos, and a travel mug in a single, compact unit. The precise temperature control and light weight make it an ideal solution for use on the go.
Pros:
- Multifunctionality: 3-in-1 design (Heating, Insulating, Drinking).
- Precise Temperature Control: Four selectable levels (45°C, 65°C, 85°C, 100°C).
- Portability: Low net weight of 520 g and compact dimensions (73 x 73 x 222 mm).
- Material: Double-walled inner container made of 304 stainless steel.
- Safety: Leak-proof design for transport in a backpack.
Who it's for: This product is suitable for professionals, students, and travellers who want to heat water to a specific temperature for tea, instant coffee, or baby formula while on the go or at the office.

2. NESPRESSO DE’LONGHI CitiZ & Milk White Original Capsule Machine

Why we recommend it: This capsule machine offers an integrated system for preparing espresso and milk-based coffee specialities. The high pump pressure and separate Aeroccino milk frother deliver consistent results with simple operation.
Pros:
- High Pump Pressure: 19 bar for optimal flavour extraction and a rich crema.
- Fast Heat-Up Time: Ready to use in approximately 25 seconds.
- Integrated Milk Frother: The Aeroccino automatically prepares hot or cold milk foam.
- User-Friendly: Programmable buttons for Espresso and Lungo with an automatic flow-stop function.
- Energy Efficient: Automatic shut-off function after 9 minutes of inactivity.
Who it's for: This appliance is aimed at users who appreciate the convenience of a capsule system and want to prepare a variety of coffee specialities like cappuccino or latte macchiato at the touch of a button.

3. IAGREEA 8-IN-1 Nut Milk Maker Machine

Why we recommend it: This plant-based milk maker stands out for its versatility and user-friendly automatic programmes. With a one-litre capacity and features like a delayed start timer and self-cleaning, it is designed for regular use in family households.
Pros:
- Versatility: 8 preset programmes (incl. soy milk maker, nut milk maker, juice, oat milk).
- Convenience Features: Up to a 12-hour delayed start timer and an automatic self-cleaning programme.
- Powerful System: 10 stainless steel blades and an 800W heating element for fine blending and even heating.
- Family-Friendly Capacity: 1-litre capacity (approx. 5 cups).
- Safe Materials: According to the manufacturer, the housing is made of food-grade, BPA-free plastic.
Who it's for: Ideal for health-conscious households, families, and individuals with a vegan or lactose-intolerant lifestyle who value fresh, homemade, and additive-free plant-based drinks.

Other Useful Kitchen Gadgets

In addition to beverage preparation, there are other small kitchen appliances that can make daily life easier. For example, if you are looking for solutions to keep food warm, you might be interested in our Cake Warmers category.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What distinguishes a nut milk maker from a conventional blender? A nut milk maker combines a blending function with an integrated heating element. This allows ingredients like soybeans to be cooked directly in the appliance, which is necessary for making soy milk. Additionally, the programmes and blades are specially designed to create a very fine, smooth consistency without coarse particles. Many models also feature a self-cleaning function that uses heated water for easier cleanup.

2. What technical aspects should you look for in a capsule machine? A crucial technical specification is the pump pressure, measured in bar. For an authentic espresso machine, a pressure of at least 9 bar at the brew head is recommended; many machines operate with up to 19 bar to produce a dense crema. Other important aspects include the heat-up time, the size of the water tank, capsule compatibility, and whether a milk preparation system (steam wand or separate milk frother) is integrated.

3. What are the advantages of a dedicated travel kettle? A travel kettle is designed for portability and safety. It is typically a small kettle with a low capacity (often 0.3-0.5 litres) and a light weight. Key features include a leak-proof design, a durable housing (often stainless steel), and safety features like boil-dry and overheat protection. Some models support multiple voltages (e.g., 110-240V) for international use.