Espresso Machines - Which One is Right For Your Home?
The top espresso machines are easy to operate, simple to clean, and able to produce rich and balanced shots. How do you choose the best 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 use an electric pump to supply the force required for espresso brewing. They typically accept water from a mains supply, as is typical for commercial installations, or a reservoir that has to be filled manually (common with smaller and household commercial espresso machines). Pumps are typically solenoid pistons that can produce high pressure. Certain espresso machines that are driven by pump systems have a fixed flow rate, while others allow you to alter the pre-infusion or brewing pressure.
They are the most well-known machines and are perfect for those who want a steady, high-quality cup coffee. They are also simpler to clean and maintain than other kinds of machines however they do require an amount of electrical power and a space near an outlet.
There are two basic types that are semi-automatics as well as super-automatics. Semi-automatics let you regulate the length of time that the shot is pulled using either a manual switch, or a programmable feature. You can also control the grind setting, and then tamp down the coffee. Certain semi-automatics are rotary while others are vibrating. Rotary pumps are quieter and more consistent but require a constant stream of pressurized water.
In contrast, a vibrating pump starts off very quietly but can eventually sound like a scream if the machine has to be supplied with water. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages and you should choose the one that fits your lifestyle the best.
Pump-driven machines also come in a range of sizes and prices. The most expensive models are usually super-automatic and feature multiple boilers that separate the water used to steam and brew. They also have heat exchangers which can be set at various temperatures to allow an array of flavors. This is a great feature for the busy barista working at home, but it can increase the cost of their products. The middle option is a semi-automatic which can be very affordable but does not offer the same level of consistency and versatility as other options.
Steam-driven
Steam-driven machines employ a simple mechanism to produce an espresso that is strong. In an airtight container, hot water is steamed in order to create pressure, which is then transferred into the coffee grounds. This is similar to the process that takes place inside a stovetop Moka pot. These machines are in use today due to their affordability and compactness. These models are not capable of reaching the 9 bar pressure needed to make a true espresso. These models are best for those who are just beginning making espresso at home or those who don't worry about making the perfect espresso.
One of the earliest examples 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 a filter. The water is depressurized using heat from an open flame. This process produces a powerful shot, but doesn't provide the quality of consistency that many espresso enthusiasts prefer.
Luigi Bezzera patented improvements in 1901 that led to the next breakthrough. The design of his invention allowed him to reduce the temperature of the boiler. This enables more stable temperature and pressure control. Bezzera added a piston device to help make this machine semiautomatic. The only problem was that it took the barista a while to grind, measure and tamp the beans manually.
This led to the creation of a pump driven espresso machine. This brand new espresso machine, unlike the steam-driven models of the past, which were heated by an open flame, is equipped with an electric pump capable of generating high levels of pressure required for the brewing of espresso. The machines can take water directly from an existing cold water line common in commercial installations or use a separate tank filled with water manually.
The machines also come with two temperature settings that can be controlled by a push button. One of these buttons switches on the temperature of the brew, while the other one controls the steam temperature. This type of machine is more precise than older steam-driven models and can produce consistent shots for a fraction of the cost of more expensive models.
Semi-automatic
Semi-automatic machines are the best choice for those who want to brew their espresso quickly and easily. It eliminates the need for barista-level instruction by automating the grinding, extraction, and tamping processes to ensure consistent results. It doesn't do all the work for you. You'll 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 lovers prefer a semi-automatic machine, as they enjoy the feeling of being in control of the process of making coffee. They are also less costly than fully-automatic counterparts and are generally more reliable.
Espresso machines are usually found in shops that are not specialty and in the homes of casual coffee drinkers who are willing spend more money for convenience. They come with dual boilers to ensure that the brewing water and steam are kept separate, while one is heating up while the other is used to make your beverage of choice. Some models have a built in 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 who are more than interested in playing around with the process of brewing espresso to make their own personal favorite. An alternative is to use a semi-automatic espresso machine with an external grinder to get full control over the size of the grinder and the amount.
If you're interested in a semi-automatic espresso machine ensure you choose one that has a high-quality, low-noise electric pump and precise temperature control via a PID controller. PID controllers are typically used in high-end toasters and immersion circulators. It helps stabilize the brewing system by monitoring variations in temperature during the heating cycle.
A good semi-automatic espresso machine will also have an efficient steam wand to create microfoam, and the capability to switch between steaming and brewing modes quickly (if it doesn't include dual boilers). With all of these features, a high-quality semi-automatic espresso maker can be an excellent choice for those who wish to save the time and money of learning how to make coffee of a high-quality, but enjoy some degree of tinkering with the process.
Manual
Manual espresso machines are operated by levers that push pressurized coffee grounds through a bed. This produces highly concentrated shots. These machines are traditionally less expensive than their semi-automatic and fully automated counterparts, making them a favorite for those who appreciate a fine cup of coffee.
Manual espresso machines require more focus and skill from the operator to maximize their potential. Making uk espresso machine in a grinder, making sure that the brew ratio is correct, and understanding how to properly dose and tap your grounds are some of the things you'll need be aware of before using a manual espresso machine.
While some find the learning curve of the manual espresso machine to be difficult and frustrating for those who have the right skills can make it worth the effort. Adrian Lini, CHOICE's expert barista says that if one has patience and the right tools manual machines can make the best espresso.
In recent years, hand-operated espresso machines have seen a rise in both design and function with more sophisticated features such as digital pressure gauges that allow users to track the pressure while extracting. Charles, who is employed at Flair Espresso, explains that these machines can also be connected by Bluetooth devices to draw graphs of flow rate, helping users to understand how varying variables during extraction could affect the overall outcome.
There are two types of manual espresso machines: direct and spring-piston. Direct levers include a spring in their group heads, which helps increase pressure during making. Although they are more expensive and more difficult to use than spring-assisted machines.
Springs piston machines are limited to the steam valve within their group head. They are more user-friendly but do not offer the same degree of control over the brewing process. The choice of the best machine will come down to your personal preferences and budget. Whatever you decide to go with the manual espresso machine will need a few essential accessories, including a kettle, a coffee grinder and a portafilter that has a removable metal dispersion screen.