If you're a coffee enthusiast in Australia seeking a peaceful brewing experience, this article spotlights the top silent coffee machines that do not compromise exceptional quality.
Each coffee machine mentioned was reviewed for its noise level, features, brew quality, performance, and customer reviews. Ready for a serene coffee-brewing experience? Let's get started.
Our Top Picks
Among the many coffee machines that were evaluated. Here are the top three silent picks for Australians.
Breville Bambino Plus
Quietest coffee machine for home with a 51 dB noise level, 1.9 L water tank capacity, three adjustable milk temperatures, and an integrated steam wand.
Gaggia Accademia
Quietest coffee machine for businesses with a 63 dB noise level, 1.6 L water and 0.6 L milk tank capacity, and a built-in ceramic burr grinder.
Bonavita BV1901TS
Quietest coffee machine for office use with a 64 dB noise level, 1.3 L water tank capacity, and an optional pre-infusion mode at an affordable price point.
6 Silent Coffee Machines for Australians
Now, let us examine each of the six handpicked coffee makers in detail. We discuss each coffee maker's unique features, pros, and potential drawbacks to help you find the best pick for your coffee needs.
1. Breville Bambino Plus
Quietest Coffee Machine for Home
Tank capacity: 1.9 L (Water)
Pump pressure: 15 bar
Weight: 4.5 kg
The Breville Bambino Plus is a great espresso machine that helps make professional-quality coffee at home, including cappuccinos, lattes, and other speciality brews. Its 1500-watt heater ensures optimal brewing temperatures between 195° and 205°F. The machine also has an optional pre-infusion mode to saturate coffee grounds before extraction.
Breville’s coffee maker has a 54 mm stainless steel portafilter that holds 18 grams of ground coffee and delivers full-bodied espresso. It also has an integrated milk carafe with an auto-cleaning function to froth milk, three adjustable milk temperatures, and three levels of texture.
Its compact design suits small kitchens or those with limited counter space. However, it does not have a built-in grinder.
Pros
- 3 secs heat-up time
- Easy-to-use touchscreen
- Customisable settings
- Includes a steam wand
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- No programmable timer
- Lacks a built-in grinder
2. Gaggia Accademia One-Touch Espresso Machine
Quietest Grinding Coffee Machine for Business
Tank capacity: 1.6 L (Water), 0.6 L (Milk)
Coffee bean capacity: 350 g
Pump pressure: 15 bar
The Gaggia Accademia can make various coffee and milk drinks. It has a ceramic burr grinder and a bypass doser that uses pre-ground coffee. The machine operates with whisper-quiet precision at 63 dB noise level.
In addition to its quiet operation and one-touch convenience, Gaggia Accademia features a dual boiler system for optimal temperature and pressure. It has an adjustable brew spout that accommodates different cup sizes and a removable milk carafe that automatically froths the milk.
The espresso maker also has programmable buttons to customise your drink preferences, such as aroma, strength, volume, temperature, and milk foam. You get a large water reservoir and bean hopper, making it perfect for business environments. On the downside, it has a premium price tag and a larger footprint that requires ample countertop space.
Pros
- Easy to use and clean
- Built-in grinder and dual boiler
- 5-inch digital display with backlit buttons
- Customisable coffee and milk options
- 2 years warranty
Cons
- Higher price point
- Slightly bulky and space-consuming
3. Bonavita BV1901TS 8-Cup Coffee Maker
Quietest Coffee Machine for Office
Tank capacity: 1.3 L (Water)
Brew basket capacity: 120 g
Weight: 2.8 kg
The Bonavita BV1901TS 8-Cup Coffee Maker is an affordable and reliable coffee maker for small offices. It can brew up to eight cups of coffee in six minutes and packs a powerful 1500-watt heater to maintain the optimal brewing temperature, i.e., between 195°-205°F. Its optional pre-infusion mode wets the coffee grounds before extraction for enhanced flavour.
Bonavita has a stainless steel filter basket and a thermal carafe that keeps the coffee hot for hours without burning it. It also has a brew temperature control to adjust the water temperature. The appliance is Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) certified, inspiring confidence in its brew quality.
If you want a coffee machine with additional features, such as a built-in grinder or milk frother, this is not the best choice.
Pros
- Fast and consistent brewing
- Simple and user-friendly interface
- Dishwasher-safe filter basket
- Optional pre-infusion mode
- 14-day return policy
Cons
- Water reservoir is non-removable
- Lacks a built-in grinder and milk frother
- Limited customisation options
4. Jura Ena 8 Automatic Coffee Machine
Quietest Automatic Coffee Machine
Tank capacity: 1.1 L (Water), 0.5/1 L (Milk)
Coffee bean capacity: 125 g
Pump pressure: 15 bar
The Jura Ena 8 makes espresso, coffee, and milk-based drinks. Its patented extraction technology, Centrifusion, spins the capsule rapidly and blends the ground coffee with water to create rich crema.
The Jura Ena 8 has a 75-ounce water reservoir that can brew up to eight cups before refilling. The 8th-generation 3D variable brewing unit (6 to 10 g) adjusts the coffee grounds and water pressure to suit your preference and cup size. With 10 user profiles, Jura's memory function lets you save your favourite coffee preferences and settings.
The machine also includes a powder chute for pre-ground coffee, an energy-saving mode, and a programmable switch-off time. You also get an auto-cleaning system and a monitored drip tray. I found its height-adjustable spouts (68 – 138 mm) useful for different cup sizes and shapes. Like Melitta Barrista, you can control Jura Ena 8 remotely from your phone.
Pros
- Intuitive operation
- Compact and eco-friendly design
- Memory function with 10 user profiles
- 2.8-inch colour touchscreen
- Height-adjustable spouts
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- Generates more waste than others
5. De’Longhi Magnifica Evo
Quiet Coffee Machine With Grinder
Tank capacity: 1.8 L (Water)
Coffee bean capacity: 250 g
Pump pressure: 15 bar
The De'Longhi Magnifica Evo delivers the perfect cup of coffee with minimal disruptive noise. The fully automatic coffee maker brews espresso, cappuccino, latte, and more with a single touch. It has seven recipes, an integrated conical burr grinder that grinds the beans freshly for each cup and an adjustable grind setting (from fine to coarse) to choose from.
The coffee machine has a dual thermoblock system that ensures optimal temperature and pressure. It includes an adjustable milk frother with LatteCrema Hot Technology to create creamy foam for milk-based drinks. You also get four programmable buttons to customise your drink preferences based on strength, volume, temperature, and milk foam.
Pros
- Easy to use and maintain
- Soft touch control panel
- Customisable coffee and milk options
- Automatic descaling function
- 7 one-touch drink settings
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- Non-removable water tank and no thermal carafe
- Requires manual cleaning and maintenance
- Not suitable for smaller kitchens
6. Melitta Barista TS Smart
Quietest 21 Presets Coffee Machine
Tank capacity: 1.8 L (Water), 0.5 L (Milk)
Coffee bean capacity: 270 g
Pump pressure: 15 bar
The Melitta Barista TS Smart is another fully automatic coffee machine. It's a top choice if you crave a variety of drinks. Choose from the 21 preset coffee recipes or create your own using the Melitta Connect app on your smartphone. Then, set it to memory for your everyday cup of coffee. The coffee maker can save preferences for up to 8 people, making it ideal for families.
Melitta's coffee maker has a dual hopper that stores two different types of beans and a smart barcode reader that adjusts the brewing parameters for each capsule. It has a thermal carafe and self-cleaning function, ensuring optimal performance and taste. On purchase, you get a 1-year warranty.
Pros
- Built-in TFT display
- Integrated milk frother and grinder
- Compatible with both beans and capsules
- App connectivity
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Premium price tag
- No selection of hot water temperature
- Requires regular care
What Makes a Coffee Machine Noisy?
The primary noise source in most coffee machines is the pump, which draws water from the tank and pushes it through the coffee grounds under high pressure. The higher the pressure, the louder the pump. So, espresso machines, which require around 15 bars of pressure, are often the noisiest.
Other sources include the grinder, which grinds the beans to a fine powder; the steam wand, which froths milk for cappuccinos and lattes; and the drip tray, which collects excess water and coffee. Some coffee makers have fans or heaters that produce noise while running.
How to Choose a Silent Coffee Machine?
When choosing a silent coffee machine, there are several factors to consider besides the noise level. Here are some of them:
- Type of coffee: Do you want to make espresso, drip, or pod coffee? Each has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of taste, convenience, and cost. I discuss the differences below.
- Tank size: The larger the tank, the less often you need to refill it. However, a larger tank also means a larger and heavier machine that takes up more space on your countertop.
- Milk frother: Do you like to add milk to your coffee? If so, you might want a machine with a built-in milk frother or a separate container that can automatically heat and froth milk. Alternatively, you can use a manual milk frother or a microwave to heat and froth your milk separately.
- Features: Some common features include a timer, a programmable function, a temperature control, a water filter, a cup warmer, an auto shut-off, and a cleaning indicator.
- Price: The price of silent coffee machines can range from under $500 to over $3000, depending on the type, brand, quality, and features. Set a budget that suits your needs and preferences.
Types of Coffee Machines
Let us compare and contrast the different types of coffee machines along with their strengths and weaknesses.
#1 - Drip Coffee Machines
These are the most common and popular types of coffee machines that use hot water to drip through a filter filled with ground coffee. They can brew large quantities of coffee quickly and usually have a glass or thermal carafe to keep the coffee warm.
Reasons to Buy
- Easy to use and operate
- They are affordable and widely available
- Consistent and reliable
- Versatile and customisable
Reasons to Avoid
- Not very eco-friendly or fresh
- Not suitable for espresso or milk-based drinks
- Can be noisy and bulky
#2 - Pod Coffee Machines
These single-serve coffee machines use pre-packaged capsules or pods containing ground coffee and other ingredients. They can make espresso, coffee, and milk-based drinks with minimal effort.
Reasons to Buy
- Clean and hygienic
- Convenient and easy to use
- Consistent and flavourful
- Compact and stylish
Reasons to Avoid
- Wasteful and not eco-friendly
- Expensive with limited compatibility
- Not customisable
#3 - Espresso Machines
These are a type of coffee machine that uses high pressure and steam to force hot water through finely ground coffee. They can make espresso shots with rich crema on top and milk-based drinks such as cappuccino or latte.
Reasons to Buy
- Professional and high-quality
- Fresh and flavourable brews
- Versatile and customisable
Reasons to Avoid
- Expensive and maintenance-heavy
- Requires manual skills and knowledge
- Often noisy and large
#4 - Manual Coffee Makers
Manual coffee makers do not use electricity or pumps to brew coffee. Instead, they extract the coffee manually, such as by plunging, steeping, or pouring.
Reasons to Buy
- Often minimalist design
- Eco-friendly with fresh brewing
- Straightforward operation
- Silent and portable
Reasons to Avoid
- Slow and inconsistent brew process
- Not suitable for large quantities of milk-based drinks
Which Coffee Machine is the Best for Home?
This question has no definitive answer, as different coffee machines may suit different preferences, budgets, and needs. However, some of the factors that you may want to consider when choosing a coffee machine for home are:
- The type of coffee you like to drink, such as espresso, drip, or pod.
- The size and capacity of the machine depend on how much counter space you have and how many cups you need to brew at a time.
- The machine's features and functions, such as programmability, temperature control, milk frothing, and cleaning.
- The price and quality of the machine, as well as the cost and availability of the coffee beans or pods.
Based on these factors, Breville's Bambino Plus is one of the best for homes, with positive reviews from experts and homeowners.
How to Fix a Noisy Coffee Maker?
There are several possible causes and solutions for a noisy coffee maker. Here are some common ones:
- Mineral Buildup: Mineral deposits from hard or tap water can cause gurgling noises. To solve this, regularly use vinegar or a descaling solution in your coffee maker.
- Clogged Lines: Dirt or debris in the water lines or filter basket restricts the water flow and causes gurgling noises. We recommend cleaning your coffee maker regularly with soap and water—use a needle or paperclip to clear any blockages.
- Loose Components: Loose parts such as screws or valves can also cause rattling noises. To fix this problem, check your coffee maker for any loose components and tighten them as needed.
- Heating Element Failure: A faulty heating element that is overheating or underheating the water can cause popping noises. You fix this by replacing the heating element or contacting the manufacturer for repair.
- Low Water in the tank: Low water in the tank or reservoir causes clicking noises, which is easy to solve. Just refill the tank or reservoir with enough water before starting the brewing cycle.
- Vibrating Machine: A vibrating coffee maker, due to its power or design, can cause chattering noises. We advise placing a rubber mat or corkboard under the machine to cushion the vibrations and reduce the noise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions concerning the noise level of coffee makers.
What is the noise level of a coffee machine?
Coffee machines that use pumps, grinders, or steam produce loud noises ranging from 60 to 95 decibels (dB), comparable to the sound of an electric toothbrush, a vacuum cleaner, or a hair dryer.
Are all coffee makers noisy?
No, not all coffee makers are noisy. Some, such as the French press, siphon, or pour-over, do not use pumps, grinders, or steam and are quieter than others. However, even among the same type, the noise level can vary depending on the machine's brand, model, and quality.
How do I clean my coffee maker?
The most common and effective coffee-making cleaning method is using vinegar and water. Vinegar is a natural and inexpensive cleaner that sanitises and dissolves mineral deposits.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Empty the coffee carafe and clean out the filter.
- Mix white vinegar and water and fill the water reservoir with the mixture. If your coffee maker has a lot of buildup, use half as much vinegar as water or increase the ratio of vinegar to water.
- Run the coffee maker through a brewing cycle without grounds in the basket.
- Let the coffee maker sit for 15-30 minutes for the vinegar to dissolve the calcium deposits and bacteria.
- Run two to three cycles of fresh water to rinse out the vinegar smell.
- Clean the carafe and brew basket with soap and water.
Clean your coffee maker at least once a month or when you notice a visible buildup or a change in the taste of your coffee. You can also use other cleaning agents like lemon juice, baking soda, or commercial descalers.
Quiet Brews, Perfect Mornings
These top-rated machines are a must-have for anyone who cherishes a peaceful environment while enjoying their favourite coffee, whether a cappuccino, latte macchiato, or flat white.
The silent coffee makers I’ve reviewed feature noise-reduction technology and promise excellent brews and quality drinks. They're the perfect solution for coffee-making in the calm of the morning.