Should You Buy an Espresso Machine?

Espresso machines require higher temperatures and pressure than standard coffee makers. They also make more concentrated and full-bodied espresso machine coffee.

You'll want a machine with dual boilers, which allows you to create steam milk and espresso at the same time. This is a major professional espresso machine improvement over the majority of single boiler espresso machines.

Features

Even novices can pull a good shot of espresso. One of the most important features is the pressure gauge which lets you see the level of pressure in the pump while it is operating. This helps to avoid channeling, which leads to weak shots. It's present on higher-end models.

A pre-infusion is another important feature. It helps ensure that all the grounds are completely saturated with water, which is essential to extract the coffee machines espresso. This feature is also present on the top machines and lowers the chance that the coffee will burn.

You should also consider whether you'd prefer an automatic or semiautomatic machine. Super-automatic machines are foolproof and allow you to make milk drinks and espressos by pressing one button. These machines are expensive and might not be suitable for you should you prefer to handle the grinding, tamping, and steaming of milk yourself.

To have a more customized experience, go for a semi-automatic machine with grinder and professional espresso machine bean hopper. These machines are more traditional in appearance and let you manage the espresso process, like grind settings and temperature. These machines are cheaper however they require more effort from the user.

Cost

There are many different options to choose from when you are choosing an espresso machine. It is dependent on what you intend to make use of it and which features are important to you. Generally speaking, more features will result in a higher cost. You might consider whether you'd like to be able to begin and stop brewing on your own or if a fully automated model is more appealing.

Basic domestic espresso machines are equipped with the portafilter, a dairy container and a portafilter that can be connected by hand. They require regular cleaning of portsafilters as well as containers for milk. They also generally require descaler treatments every few months to ensure they are in good working order. Some models come with built-in filters which reduce hardness and improve the taste.

Professional espresso machines typically come with dual boilers that allow you to brew and steam milk simultaneously. This saves you time and ensures that each process is brewed at the right temperature. A professional espresso machine at home will make it easy to create delicious cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites and other drinks.

Certain espresso machines come with the option of a manual control for grinder control, the amount of ground coffee and tampering pressure to give you the feeling of a barista at home. These machines are more costly than semi-automatics but they're ideal for those who are interested in making coffee.

Types

Whether you're looking to buy or lease an espresso machine, consider the options carefully. A lease machine will require less upfront money, but you'll be bound by an agreement that can increase the cost of maintenance in the future. Buying will cost more up front, but you'll own your equipment in full.

The kind of espresso machine you buy will depend on your requirements and the type of coffee you'll serve. Many models come with a steam wand that can heat and froth milk for cappuccinos or lattes. Many models come with a removable dishwasher-safe jug that can be used to make large quantities of iced beverages and coffee.

There are models that are completely automated, that grind, measure and tamp your beans and utilize pre-measured pods as an additional benefit. These tend to score the highest in Lab tests for their ease of use however, they will cost more than a semi-automatic or manual model.

There are single and multi-boiler machines that are more temperature stable than other types which allows you to consistently make delicious espresso. These machines are more expensive and take up more space on counters.

Maintenance

Your coffee will taste better if maintain your espresso maker properly. Regular cleaning and descaling can also extend the lifespan of the espresso maker. Cleaning regularly will also prevent the buildup and deterioration of coffee oils, which can alter the taste.

Giorgio suggests looking for a machine with the option of a brew group that is removable and an easy-to-clean drip tray. Giorgio claims that this will save you time and money in the long run by reducing the need to clean the coffee drip pan as well in avoiding the added cost of a separate milk frother.

A high water pressure can assist in creating an even, rich crema and a consistent extraction. A quality machine will be able to achieve an absolute pressure of nine bars.

Think about how much space available in your kitchen, and whether or not you're planning on pluming it. If you're limited with storage space in your cabinet, consider buying one that is portable or a drip-free model that can be used with no need to be connected to a water line. You will also be able to avoid the burden of emptying an empty waste container each time you use a drip-free model. It is also important to ensure that you purchase an espresso machine equipped with a tank for water that is easy to fill, take out and clean.