This overall score is made up of performance (70%) and ease of use (30%). 

We measure out the maximum quantity of green beans as recommended by the manufacturer, and adjust the time and temperature accordingly or use a pre-programmed setting if available. We roast the beans to the first crack, aiming to get beans from each roaster to the same or similar colour for assessment. After cooling, we weigh the roasted beans before grinding them and making a shot of coffee to comment on flavour and crema quality.

We assess how easy it is to adjust the time and temperature, program a cycle, use the roasting chamber, fill and empty the chamber and clean and store. We also assess how clear the instructions are.

We recommend coffee roasters that score at least 70% overall.

This is the manufacturer's recommended retail price. Prices are generally flexible, so shop around both online and in bricks and mortar shops for options.

The maximum quantity of green beans the machine can roast at the one time, measured in grams.

How many different programs you can create.