How to Choose an Espresso Coffee Machine Home

A high-end espresso machine can take your home coffee-making to the next level. But how do you choose?

There are many aspects to consider, from measuring and grinding your beans to pressing and tamping your beans properly to getting an espresso shot that is perfect. Fortunately, many of the tasks that need to be done can be automated using semi-automatic machines, and in some cases, even fully automatic models.

Manual

You'll need some quality equipment if you want to make the finest espresso at home. The most crucial component of the system is a well-designed, high-quality espresso maker that is able to handle pressure. Certain manufacturers have stripped the system to the bare minimum, making machines that don't require boilers and rely instead on hand-pressure for some pretty decent shots.

We've tested several of these and concluded that the Lelit Bambino Plus is one of the top. It's not cheap but you're getting coffee machinery that will last for years, and has 35 years of Lelit support and service to back it. It's a little heavier than average, but that's expected given its build. It also has a beautiful retro-futuristic style that's sure to be a conversation-starter.

Another good option is Breville's Smart Grinder EK835. It's not cheap however it's a fantastic grinder that lets you to grind your own coffee beans. It's bigger than other grinders we've looked at however, it's due to its larger burrs as well as the fact that it's capable of handling more than a standard set of burrs. It's easier to use than some of the models we reviewed and comes with a solid warranty.

There are four types of espresso machines: Manual/Lever, Semi-Automatic, Volumetric (sometimes referred to as Automatic) and Super-Automatic. Manual levers are the most common and provide an easier design, however, they are the most difficult to learn how to use and require more skill to dial in and pull shots.

Semi-automatics let you perform the grinding and tamping by yourself but they also have an electric pump that can provide constant flow and pressure. You can alter the amount of espresso you pour into your cup by stopping the brewing process, and most semi-automatics have steam wands that let you to make froth. There are also super-automatics that can complete the job for you, and come with built-in grinders, tampers, the brewing process and more.

Semi-Automatic

The distinction between semi-automatic espresso machines and fully automated machines is how much control you want over the coffee making process. Manual espresso machines require the baristas to push the button and pull the shot which can be exhausting and requires a lot of practice. Fully automated machines can brew professional-quality espresso with the push of a single button. However this convenience comes with cost and the machines can be expensive to purchase or rent.

A semi-automatic machine is the best option for those who wish to control their coffee making but don't have the time or skill level to be barista. This type of machine eliminates the guesswork of making a shot of espresso by grinding the beans, compressing them into the shape of a hockey puck and then forcing hot water through them at just the right amount of pressure to create an espresso. This kind of espresso maker also enables you to steam milk and create latte art.

These types of espresso makers are costly and require a higher maintenance level than fully automated machines. Semi-automatic espresso machines are a good alternative for those who don't have the funds to purchase or lease an espresso machine that is fully automated.

Fully automatic espresso machines promise an even cup every time, and require minimal effort. They can handle all the steps required to make espresso from grinding the beans to pulling a shot and steaming milk and all of it by pressing the button. This is a very popular choice for cafes who need to serve a lot of customers in a short period and require convenience. These machines are expensive and not suitable for all cafes. If you're interested check out this site in an espresso machine that is fully automated for your cafe, think about renting or buying two. One machine to handle high-volume times, and the second one to handle slower periods.

Pods

With pod coffee machines, you can prepare espresso drinks with the push of the button. They use disposable capsules of coffee that are filled with coffee ground in advance and milk powder to brew your beverage. The top espresso pod machines are quick, neat, and offer very consistent results--shot after shot is topped with a smooth layer of crema that is the signature of a top-quality espresso.

Pod machines might not have the same level control like bean-to-cup machines, but they are a great alternative for those who value convenience over quality and prefer to avoid grinding and tamping beans on their own. While they won't produce the same flavor as freshly ground beans brewed with a high-quality coffee grinder, the advancements in pod technology and a wider number of coffee types have made these machines better than ever before.

The type of coffee pods used in the machines varies from manufacturer to manufacturer however they usually have the same basic shape and design. Most are small disks with paper coverings that look like tea bags. They can be put into a portafilter for brewing. Some are designed to be used with drip coffee machines while others are designed for espresso machines. Soft pods are one of them, and Easy Serving Espresso (E.S.E.) pods are the latter.

It is important to check the list of compatible pods prior to buying a machine that is based on pods. They are available in a variety of flavors and brands which means you can try them before settling on your favorite. Some brands sell refillable pods to those who wish to reuse their old ones.

Whatever type of coffee machine you choose it's important to consider cleaning and maintenance requirements. Many bean-to cup machines require manual cleaning and regular descaling of the brewing mechanism as well as grinder. However certain pod-based espresso machines have built-in self-cleaning capabilities that reduce hassle.

Water

Espresso machines are an extremely powerful tool, that makes use of high pressure to push coffee that has been finely ground through a tightly packed container. The result is a concentrated shot espresso that is ideal for making lattes, cappuccinos and macchiatos. The Europeans, specifically the Italians came up with this idea in the late 1800s and utilized it to open up a whole new world of cafe drinks.

There are a variety of methods to make a cup espresso, but the fundamental idea is to warm water until just below boiling and then press it through tightly packed grounds in a portafilter, which then flows into an insulated container beneath the group head. This method produces a dense, highly flavored cup of espresso within 2 minutes.

All espresso machines work similarly, but the specifics of each differ slightly. Some machines employ piston designs that require you to press down on a lever to generate the necessary pressure (8 to 10 bar or 116 to 145 psi). Some machines employ an electric pump to produce pressure. Others, particularly the inexpensive at-home machines rely on heated water and high temperatures to generate the similar effect.

The quality of the ingredients is important regardless of how the espresso machine is working. Start with a good quality dark roast espresso bean. Try different grinds and tamping strategies to find the perfect recipe for your home espresso machine.

Use the right water for your espresso maker. Ideally, you should use tap water with moderate mineral content. Minerals in water can help you make a smooth and balanced cup of coffee while also preventing the buildup of scale. La Marzocco has downloadable guidelines for coffee water that can aid you in determining the mineral content of your local water supply.

As you get more comfortable with your espresso maker at home It's a good idea to purchase additional equipment, such as the portafilter and a stainless tamper. These tools will enhance the brewing process and will give you a sense of satisfaction in the coffee you're now able to make at home.