Guardian journalism is independent. We earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more.
Ditch the daily Starbucks and level up your coffee skill with these upgrades that promise a smoother sip
Drip or instant? Our blind taste test and the best instant coffees
Sign up for the Filter US newsletter, your weekly guide to buying fewer, better things
Coffee simply tastes better at a cafe – and if you have found yourself using this sentiment to justify dropping $10 on a latte each morning, you are not alone.
It does not have to be this way. To help you upgrade your at-home coffee game, we interviewed baristas, tested 10 milk frothers, tried every model of the AeroPress coffee maker and conducted our own blind taste test pitting instant against drip.
Years ago, I was convinced that my at-home coffee setup would not be complete without dropping $1,000 on a fancy espresso machine.
That all changed after I discovered the brilliance of the moka pot. I first discovered this adorable, kettle-like coffee maker while studying in Rome and have been loyal to it ever since. I love that it creates espresso-like beverages without the four-digit price tag.
I use mine each morning to brew my frothy hot drinks or refreshing iced coffee.
Read the story: Moka pot coffee: unlock cafe-quality iced lattes at home with this $50 Italian staple
Coffee snobs, you might want to sit down for this.
Instant blends are not as bad as you have made them out to be. In fact, this unassuming packet of instant coffee beat out every bag of drip that we tried in our taste test in partnership with the Drexel Food Lab.
Whether you are looking for something better than the watery sludge served on most flights or want a convenient option for early morning wake-ups, Illy’s instant coffee isn’t the crime against coffee that you may think.
Read the story: Instant coffee v drip: our blind taste test may unravel your assumptions
Travel frequently? Ditch the hotel coffee for the strong cup you can make in an Aeropress.


