Espresso Machines - Which One is Right For Your Home?
The top espresso machines are simple to use, simple to clean, and able to produce powerful and balanced shots. How do you choose the most efficient espresso machine for your home?
This Breville model is perfect for those who don't want to learn barista skills but still want great coffee at home.
Pump-driven
Pump-driven machines utilize an electric pump to supply the necessary force to make espresso. They typically accept water from a mains supply, common with commercial installations or a reservoir which has to be filled manually (common with smaller and household commercial espresso machines). The pumps used are typically solenoid-piston models that can produce high levels of pressure. Some espresso machines with pump-driven systems have a fixed flow rate, while others allow you to adjust the pre-infusion or brewing temperature.
These are the most popular machines and are perfect for anyone looking for a consistent, high-quality cup of coffee. They can also be easier to maintain and clean than other kinds of machines, but do require a certain amount of electrical power and a space near an outlet.
There are two basic types of semi-automatics and super-automatics. Semi-automatics let you control the amount of time the shot is pulled for with an electronic switch or a programmable function. You can also control the grind setting, and tamp down the coffee. Some semi-automatics have motors that are rotary, while others vibrate. Rotary pumps are quieter and more reliable but require a constant stream of pressurized water.
A vibrating pump starts off very quietly but can start to sound like a scream if the machine needs to be supplied with water. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages and you should select the one that fits your needs best.
Pump-driven machines are also available in a range of sizes and prices. The most expensive ones are usually super-automatic and feature multiple boilers to separate the water used to steam and brew. These models come with heat exchangers that can be set at various temperatures to allow variations in flavor. This additional feature makes them an ideal choice for the busy barista at home, it does increase the cost. Semi-automatics can be a good middle option. They can be reasonably priced, but they don't offer the same quality and flexibility of other alternatives.
Steam-driven
Steam-driven machines employ a simple mechanism to produce an intense espresso. In a sealed airtight container hot water is steamed to create pressure which is then absorbed into the coffee grounds. This is similar to the process that takes place in a Moka stovetop. These machines are still being used today due to their cost-effectiveness and small size. These models aren't capable of reaching the 9 bar pressure needed for true espresso. This makes them ideal for those just starting out with making espresso at home or aren't concerned with making the perfect espresso.
The balancer balancer compensation from 1878 designed by German engineer H. Eicke is a very early steam-driven device. The steam produced by this device pushes boiling water through a filter made of ground beans. It is then depressurized by heat from an open flame spirit burner. This technique produces a robust shot, but doesn't provide the quality of consistency that many espresso drinkers like.
The next advancement came with Luigi Bezzera's 1901 inventions. His invention allowed him to reduce the temperature in the boiler. This allows for a more consistent temperature and pressure control. Bezzera added an engine piston to make this machine semiautomatic. The only issue was that the barista had to grind and measure beans manually.
This led to the creation of a pump driven espresso machine. This type of espresso machine, unlike the steam-driven models of the past, which were heated by an open flame, has an electric pump capable producing the high levels of pressure required for the brewing of espresso. These machines can be able to take water from a cold line, which is a common feature in commercial establishments. They also have the option of using an additional water tank that must be filled manually.
These machines also feature two temperature settings that are controlled by a button. One of these buttons activates the brew thermostat while another switch is for the steam thermostat. This type of machine is more accurate than older steam-driven machines and can produce consistent shots for less than the cost of more expensive models.
Semi-automatic
If you're seeking a simple way to brew espresso with less effort the semi-automatic machine is the answer. It takes away the need for barista training by automatizing the process of grinding, tamping and extraction to produce consistently good results. However, it doesn't complete the entire process for you. You'll need to grind the beans and tamp them in the portafilter prior to the water is being pushed through them.
Many coffee lovers, both professional and amateur prefer a semi-automatic machine because they like the feeling of being more involved in the process of making coffee. They also come with a lower price tag than their fully-automated counterparts, and they tend to be more reliable, as well.
These espresso machines are usually located in non-specialty coffee shops and at home of coffee enthusiasts who are willing to pay more money for convenience. Dual boilers allow the steam and brewing to remain separate. One is used to heat while the other is used to prepare your favorite beverage. Some models come with a built in grinder that can save the user much time.
The built-in espresso grinder is usually limited in its settings, which can frustrate those who want to customize the process of brewing their own espresso. It is recommended to pair a semi automatic espresso machine with an external grind to have full control over the size of the grind.
If you're considering a semi-automatic espresso machine ensure you choose one that has a high-quality electric pump that is low-noise and has precision temperature regulation via the PID controller. The PID is usually found in high-end toaster and immersion circulators. It assists in stabilizing a brewing system by measuring variations in temperature during the heating process.
A decent semi-automatic espresso maker will also have a steam wand powerful enough to make microfoam and the capability to switch between brewing and steaming modes quickly (if it doesn't have two boilers). With all these options, a top-quality semi-automatic espresso maker can be a great option for those who want to save the time and money of learning how to make high-quality coffee but enjoy some degree of tinkering with the process.
Manual
Manual espresso machines operate with levers that push coffee grounds pressurized through the bed. This produces high-quality shots. These machines are less expensive than semi-automatic or fully automatic machines and are therefore popular with coffee drinkers.
stovetop espresso maker require more focus and expertise from the operator to maximize their capabilities. Choosing the right grinder, making sure that the brew ratio is in order, and understanding how to dose and tap your grounds are some of the things you'll need to be aware of before using a manual espresso machine.
While some people find the process of learning the manual espresso machine to be challenging and difficult but those with the right skills are able to make it worth the effort. Our expert barista in-house at CHOICE, Adrian Lini, says that if you have the right tools and the determination to learn how to operate a manual espresso machine, it will give you the best espresso experience.
In recent years, espresso machines that are operated by hand have improved in both appearance and function with more advanced features like digital pressure gauges that let users monitor the pressure during extraction. Charles who works for Flair Espresso, says that these machines can be connected with Bluetooth devices to plot graphs for flow rate. This helps users understand how changing variables during extraction can impact the final result.
There are two types of manual espresso machines that are direct and spring-piston. Direct levers include springs inside their group heads, which helps to increase the pressure when making coffee. Although they are more expensive but they are also easier to use than spring-assisted machines.
Springs piston machines, on the contrary, have nothing in their group heads except the steam valve. They are easier to use however they do not provide as much control of the making process. The choice of the best machine is dependent on your personal preferences and budget. Whatever you decide to go with an espresso machine that is manual will need a few essential equipment, such as kettles, a coffee grinder and a portafilter that has the option of removing a dispersion filter made of metal.