Espresso Machines - Which One is Right For Your Home?
The best espresso machines are simple to use, simple to clean, and able to create rich and balanced shots. How do you pick the best espresso machine for your home?
This Breville model with its fast-heating thermocoil design, and digital convenience is perfect for a person who doesn't have the time to learn barista skills but wants great coffee at home.
Pump-driven
Pump-driven machines depend on an electric motor for the force required to make espresso. These machines either accept water directly from the mains, which is common in commercial installations, or they have a reservoir which must be filled manually (common for home espresso machines and smaller commercial espresso machines). The pumps that are used are usually solenoid-piston designs that can create high levels of pressure. Certain espresso machines that are driven by pump systems have a fixed flow rate, while others let you adjust the pre-infusion or brewing temperature.
These are the most popular machines, and are perfect for anyone looking for a consistently high-quality, consistent cup of coffee. These machines are simpler to maintain and clean than other models, however they do require electrical power and space near an outlet.
They are available in two basic kinds: semi-automatic as well as super-automatic. Semi-automatics allow you to control the length of time that the shot is pulled using either a manual switch, or a feature that can be programmed. You can also alter the grind setting and tamp down the coffee. Some semi-automatics are equipped with motors that rotate, while others vibrate. Rotary pumps are quieter and more reliable but require a constant stream of pressurized water.
A vibrating pump on the other hand, starts out quite quietly. However, it could sound like a scream when water is added to the machine. Both types have pros and cons, and you should choose one that suits your lifestyle.
Pump-driven machines come in a variety of sizes and price ranges. The most expensive machines are typically super-automatic and come with multiple boilers that separate the water for brewing and steaming. The heat exchangers of these machines can be set to various temperatures, which allows for some variation in the flavor of the espresso. This extra functionality is great for the busy barista at home, but it can increase the price. Semi-automatics are a great middle option. They can be affordable however they don't have the same quality and flexibility of other options.
Steam-driven
Steam-driven machines utilize an easy system to make an intense espresso. In a container that is airtight, hot water is steamed in order to create pressure, which is then transferred to the coffee grounds. This is similar to the process used inside a stovetop Moka pot. These machines are in use today because of their cost-effectiveness and small size. These models aren't capable of reaching the 9 bars of pressure required for a truly espresso. This makes them ideal for those who are just beginning to learn about making espresso at home or aren't concerned with making the perfect cup of espresso.
The earliest example of a steam-driven machine is the 1878 compensation siphon balancer developed by German engineer H. Eicke. The steam produced by this device is pushed through a filter of ground beans, which is then depressurized by the heat from an open flame spirit burner. This produces a robust shot, however it doesn't meet the standard of consistency that a lot of espresso enthusiasts prefer.
Luigi Bezzera patented improvements in 1901 that led to the next breakthrough. His invention was able lower the temperature of the boiler, which allowed for more consistent temperature and pressure control. Bezzera also added the piston-based device, which helped to make this machine semi-automatic. The only issue was that the barista had to grind and measure beans manually.
This led to the development of a pump-driven espresso machine. This type of espresso machine, unlike the older steam-driven ones, which were heated by an open flame, is equipped with an electric pump capable of generating high pressure levels required for brewing the espresso. These machines can either accept water directly from an existing cold water line which is common in commercial establishments or they can utilize an additional tank that is filled with water manually.
These machines also feature two temperature settings controlled by a button. One of these buttons activates the brew thermostat, while the other switch on the steam thermostat. This type of machine is more accurate than older steam-driven models and can make 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 training by automatizing the grinding, extraction and tamping process to ensure consistently good results. But it doesn't do everything for you: You still must grind the beans and tamp them in the portafilter before the water is forced through them.
This is the reason why many professional and amateur coffee lovers prefer semi-automatic machines, since they like the feeling of being more in control of the process of making coffee. They are also less expensive than fully-automatic counterparts and tend to be more reliable.
These types of espresso machines are usually found in coffee shops that are not specialty and at home of casual coffee lovers who are willing to pay more money to enjoy convenience. They feature dual boilers so that the brewing water and steam are kept separate while one is heating up and the other is used to create your drink of choice. Some have even a built-in grinder that could be a major time-saver for the user.
The espresso grinder that comes with the machine is often restricted in its settings, which can be a problem for those who wish to alter the process of brewing their own espresso. A better solution is to use a semi-automatic espresso machine with an external grinder for full control over the grind size and the amount.
If you're looking for an espresso machine that is semi-automatic, look for one with a low-noise, high-quality electric pump, and a temperature controller that allows precise temperature regulation. The PID is usually found in high-end toaster and immersion circulators. It assists in stabilizing the brewing system by monitoring the temperature fluctuations throughout the heating cycle.
A high-quality semi-automatic espresso machine must also come with a steam wand powerful enough to produce microfoam, as well as the ability to switch between steaming and brewing modes quickly (if it doesn't have two boilers). A semi-automatic model with all of these features could be an excellent option for those who don't wish to learn how to make cafe-quality drinks, but still want to have fun.
Manual
Manual espresso machines utilize levers to push pressurized water over a bed of finely ground coffee to produce highly concentrated shots. They are typically less expensive than semi-automatic and fully automated counterparts, making them popular for those who appreciate a fine cup of coffee.
Unlike automated espresso machines, which are designed with user-friendliness in mind manual espresso makers require more skill and focus by the operator to get the most of their potential. Making the right choice in a grinder, making sure that the brew ratio is correct and knowing how to properly dose and make sure your grounds are tamping properly are some of the things you'll need to know prior to using a manual espresso machine.
While coffee and espresso maker may find the learning curve involved in operating a manual machine frustrating however, for those who have the right abilities, it is well worth the effort. Adrian Lini, CHOICE's expert barista, believes that if one has the patience and the right tools, a manual machine can make the best espresso.
In recent years, hand-operated espresso machines have grown in both form and function with more advanced features like digital pressure gauges that let users monitor the pressure during extraction. Charles, who is employed by Flair Espresso, says that these machines can be connected using Bluetooth devices to plot graphs for flow rate. This helps users understand how changing variables during extraction can affect the final result.
There are two kinds of manual espresso machines including spring piston and direct. Direct levers include a spring in their group heads, which helps boost pressure during making. They're more expensive than spring-assisted machines but they're still simpler to operate.
Springs piston machines have only the steam valve in their group head. They're easier to use than direct lever machines but don't provide as much control over the process of brewing. The best type of machine will come down to personal preference and your budget. Whatever you decide to go with a manual espresso machine will require a few essentials, including an able filter as well as a coffee mill and a kettle.