Espresso Machines - Which One is Right For Your Home?
The best espresso machines are simple to operate, simple to clean and can produce rich and balanced shots. But how do you decide which one is the best machine for your home?
coffee machines espresso is ideal for those who don't wish to learn barista skills but still want great coffee at home.
Pump-driven
Pump-driven machines depend on an electric pump to generate the force needed to make espresso. They either take water directly from the mains, which is common in commercial installations, or they have a reservoir that must be filled manually (common for home espresso machines and smaller commercial espresso machine). Pumps are usually solenoid pistons that can produce high pressure. Some espresso machines with pump-driven systems have fixed flow rates, while others allow you to alter the pre-infusion or brewing temperature.
They are the most well-known machines and are ideal for those who want a consistently high-quality, consistent cup of coffee. They are also easier to maintain and clean than other kinds of machines however, they require some electrical power and a space near an outlet.
There are two basic types of semi-automatics and super-automatics. Semi-automatics let you regulate the amount of time the shot is pulled using either a manual switch, or a programmable feature. You can also alter the grind setting, and tamp down the coffee. Certain semi-automatics feature motors that are rotary, while others vibrate. Rotary pumps are quieter however, they require a constant flow pressurized liquid.
In contrast, a vibration pump can start off quiet but it can soon sound like a scream when the machine has to be fed with water. Both have pros and cons, and you must pick one that is suitable for your needs.
Pump-driven machines are also available in a range of sizes and prices. The most expensive machines are typically super-automatic, and have multiple boilers that separate the water for brewing and steaming. These models come with heat exchangers that can be set at different temperatures to allow for variations in flavor. This is a great feature for the busy barista at home, but it can increase the cost of their products. The middle ground is a semi-automatic, which is a great value but doesn't offer as much consistency and versatility as other options.
Steam-driven
Steam-driven machines employ an easy method to create an intense espresso. Within an airtight tank, steam is heated to create pressure, which is transferred to the coffee grounds for brewing. This is similar to the process that takes place in a stovetop Moka pot. These machines are still in use today because of their low cost and their compactness. However, these models do not have the ability to reach 9 bars of pressure required for authentic espresso. This makes them best for those who are just starting out with homebrewing or don't have a problem about making the perfect cup of espresso.
A very early example of a steam-driven machine is the 1878 compensation siphon balancer created by German engineer H. Eicke. Steam is created by this machine, which carries boiling beans through an aerator. The water is then depressurized with heat from an open flame. This process produces a powerful shot, but doesn't provide the quality of consistency that many espresso drinkers like.
Luigi Bezzera patented improvements in 1901 which led to the next breakthrough. His invention allowed him to lower the temperature in the boiler. This enables more constant temperature and pressure control. Bezzera also included an engine piston to make this machine semiautomatic. The only problem was that it took the barista time to grind, measure and tamp the beans manually.
This led to the development of the pump-driven espresso machine. This new 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 pressure levels required for the brewing of espresso. These machines can either accept water directly from the cold water line common in commercial installations or they can utilize an additional tank that is filled with water manually.
They also come with two temperature settings that are controlled by the push of a button. One of these buttons turns on the brew temperature, while the other one controls the steam temperature. This type of machine can make consistent shots at a fraction of what it costs compared to older steam-driven models.
Semi-automatic
Semi-automatic machines are a great option for those who want to brew their espresso quickly and easily. It can eliminate barista training by automatizing the process of grinding, tamping and extraction to ensure consistent results. It does not complete all the work for you. You still need grind the beans, then tamp them down in the portafilter, and then push the water through.
This is the reason why many amateur and professional coffee drinkers prefer semi-automatic coffee makers, because they feel the satisfaction of being in control during the brewing process. They also come with a lower price tag than their fully-automatic counterparts, and tend to be more reliable as well.
Espresso machines are usually found in shops that are not specialty and at the homes of casual coffee drinkers who are willing to pay more for convenience. Dual boilers allow the steam and brewing process to be kept separate. One is used for heating while the other is used to prepare your preferred beverage. Some models include an integrated grinder that can save the user much time.
However the built-in grinder usually offers a limited range of settings, which can be frustrating for those interested in tinkering with the process of brewing espresso to create their own personal favorites. It is recommended to combine a semi-automatic espresso machine with an external grinder for complete control over the size of the grinder.
If you are interested in an espresso machine that is semi-automatic, look for one with a low-noise, high-quality electric pump, and a PID temperature control that can provide precise temperature control. The PID is a piece of technology commonly found in immersion circulators and high-end toaster ovens. It can help stabilize a brewing boiler by analyzing the temperature fluctuations throughout the heating process.
Additionally, a quality semi-automatic machine should be equipped with a strong enough steam wand that can create microfoam and be able to switch between steaming and brewing modes quickly (if it doesn't have dual boilers). With all these features, a quality semi-automatic espresso maker is an excellent choice for those who wish to avoid the hassle and expense of learning to make cafe-quality drinks but still enjoy some degree of tinkering with the process.
Manual
Manual espresso machines operate with levers that push pressurized coffee grounds through the bed. This results in high-quality shots. They are generally less expensive than semi-automatic and fully automated counterparts, making them a favorite among discerning coffee lovers.
Unlike automated espresso machines, which are designed with user-friendliness in mind manual espresso makers require more skill and attention from the operator to make the most of their potential. You'll also need to choose the correct grinder and ensure that the brew proportion is correct.
Although some may find the learning curve operating a machine manual difficult but for those with the right set of skills, it can be worth the effort. Adrian Lini, CHOICE's expert barista, believes that if one has the patience and the right equipment manual machines can make the best espresso.
In recent years, espresso machines that are operated by hand have grown in both form and function, with more sophisticated features like digital pressure gauges that allow users to monitor the pressure while extracting. Charles, who is employed at Flair Espresso, explains that these machines can also be connected with bluetooth devices to digitally plot graphs of flow rate to help users understand how changing various variables during extraction could affect the overall result.
There are two kinds of manual espresso machines that are direct and spring-piston. Direct levers are equipped with springs in their group heads to increase the pressure when brewing. They're more expensive than spring-assisted machines, however, they are still easier to operate.
Springs piston machines on the contrary, have nothing in their group heads other than the steam valve. They are simpler to use but don't offer as much control over the brewing process. Choosing the right type of machine is dependent on personal preference and your budget. Whichever one you choose an espresso machine that is manual will require a few necessary accessories, such as kettles, a coffee grinder and a portafilter that has an adjustable dispersion screen made of metal.