Choosing a coffee machine for a small kitchen

A few centimetres saved on width can be lost when you open the lid. Measure the machine in use.

Measure the space used during preparation

A machine can fit on a shelf and still be awkward to use there. Its published width describes the appliance, not the space needed to remove a water tank, lift a lid or turn a steam wand.

Mark the available rectangle on the worktop with removable tape. Then reserve the operating space around it. If you need to pull the machine forward every morning, include somewhere safe to move it and check the manufacturer’s placement instructions.

Four clearances to check

• Above: room to open a bean hopper, capsule lever or tank lid beneath the cupboard.
• In front: room to remove the drip tray and place the cup, including a taller mug if that is what you use.
• Beside the machine: access to the steam wand and milk jug, or a separate frother.
• Behind: the manufacturer’s required spacing and a suitable route to the power socket.

Do not squeeze away a ventilation clearance to make the footprint work. Choose another location or model.

Narrow does not mean shallow

Lavazza lists the Jolie Evo at 124 mm wide and 330 mm deep. LELIT lists Anna PL41TEM at 23 × 38 × 34 cm, in width, depth and height order. These are manufacturer dimensions, not our measurements, and the machines serve different routines.

The useful comparison is what each would leave free on your particular counter. A narrow, deep appliance may occupy a strip you need for food preparation. A wider one might fit better in an unused corner, provided its tank and controls remain accessible.

Be careful when reading dimension tables: manufacturers and retailers can present width, depth and height in different orders. Label each measurement on your sketch. If two listings disagree, use the exact model’s official documentation and resolve the discrepancy before ordering.

Count the equipment around it

A manual machine may also need a grinder, somewhere to prepare the dose and somewhere to empty the basket. A capsule setup may need a separate milk frother and storage for capsules. Include whichever items your routine actually requires; there is no need to buy a full barista station on day one.

Finally, check the cleaning route. Can you carry the water tank to the tap without moving other appliances? Can the drip tray come out while the machine stays in place? Use those two motions to test your taped rectangle. They expose a cramped setup faster than another product photograph.