The Underground Boston is an independent coffee gear review site. We publish buying guides for espresso machines, coffee makers, coffee grinders and coffee accessories, written by a small editorial team and checked line by line against the details each maker publishes in its Amazon listing.

What we do

Each guide answers one specific question, such as which espresso machine suits a beginner or which burr grinder fits a small counter. We read the full Amazon listing for every product we consider, compare the details the maker actually publishes, and explain which buyer each pick suits and who should skip it.

What we cover

  • Espresso Machines: espresso machines, cappuccino machines and machines with built-in grinders.
  • Coffee Makers: drip, single serve, pod, pour over, cold brew, French press, moka pot and percolator brewers.
  • Coffee Grinders: burr, blade and manual grinders.
  • Coffee Accessories: scales, kettles, frothers, tampers, knock boxes, canisters, pod storage, warmers and mugs.

Our editorial team

Each category has one editor who researches and reviews every guide in it. Read full profiles on our Our Authors page.

Alexander Bennett, Espresso Equipment Editor at The Underground Boston

Alexander Bennett

Espresso Equipment Editor · Espresso Machines

Covers espresso machines, from semi-automatic and fully automatic models to manual espresso makers and beginner setups, with a focus on temperature control, pressure, milk steaming and maintenance.

Emily Parker, Coffee Maker Editor at The Underground Boston

Emily Parker

Coffee Maker Editor · Coffee Makers

Covers drip, single-serve, programmable, pour-over and cold brew coffee makers, with a focus on capacity, convenience, cleaning and everyday routines.

Daniel Foster, Coffee Grinder Editor at The Underground Boston

Daniel Foster

Coffee Grinder Editor · Coffee Grinders

Covers burr, blade, manual and espresso grinders, with a focus on grind consistency, burr design, adjustment range, retention and cleaning.

Sophia Martinez, Coffee Accessories Editor at The Underground Boston

Sophia Martinez

Coffee Accessories Editor · Coffee Accessories

Covers coffee scales, tampers, milk frothers, gooseneck kettles, filters and barista tools, with a focus on usability, materials and compatibility.

How we choose products

  • We start with the products available on Amazon in the United States for the topic of the guide.
  • We remove items that are out of stock, mislabeled or not the type of product the guide is about.
  • We compare listed features, materials, capacity, included parts and care instructions.
  • We score each product with the same published method. You can read it on our Editorial Policy page.

What we do not do

We do not claim to have run hands-on lab tests, and we do not invent ownership stories. We do not print prices, star ratings or review counts, because those change daily. Check the current details on Amazon before you buy.

How the site is funded

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. That commission never changes what you pay, and it never decides which products make a list. Read our Affiliate Disclaimer for details.

Get in touch

Questions, corrections or product suggestions are welcome at theundergroundboston@gmail.com or on our Contact page.