Espresso Machines - Which One is Right For Your Home?
The top espresso machines are easy to use, easy to clean, and able to produce powerful and balanced shots. How do you pick the best espresso machine for your home?
This Breville model with its rapid-heating thermocoil design and digital convenience is ideal for someone who doesn't wish to learn barista skills, but would like to enjoy good coffee at home.
Pump-driven
Pump-driven machines depend on an electric pump for the force required to brew espresso. These machines typically either accept water from a mains supply, as is typical for commercial installations or a reservoir that is filled manually (common with household and smaller commercial espresso machines). The pumps used are typically solenoid-piston models that can produce high 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.
They are the most well-known machines and are perfect for anyone looking for a consistently high-quality, consistent cup of coffee. They are also simpler to maintain and clean than other types of machines however they do require some electricity and a location 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 using either a manual switch, or a programmable feature. In addition, you are able to alter the grind setting or tamp the coffee. Certain semi-automatics are rotary while others are vibrating. Rotary pumps are quieter and more reliable but require a continuous flow of pressurized water.
A vibrating pump, on the other hand, is able to start very quietly. However, it could sound like a scream when water is added to the machine. Both types have their pros and cons, and you should choose the one that suits your needs best.
Pump-driven machines come in a range of sizes and price ranges. The most expensive machines are typically super-automatic, and have multiple boilers that separate the water used for brewing and steaming. These models have heat exchangers that can be set to different temperatures to allow for variations in flavor. This is a great feature for busy baristas at home, but it will increase the price. The middle option is a semi-automatic which can be very affordable but doesn't provide the same consistency and flexibility as other options.
Steam-driven
Steam-driven machines employ simple mechanisms to create a strong espresso. In an airtight container, hot water is heated to create pressure which is then absorbed into the coffee grounds. This is similar to what happens in a stovetop moka pot and these machines are still popular today due to their low cost and small size. These machines aren't capable of reaching the 9 bars of pressure needed to make a true espresso. This makes them ideal for those who are just getting started with homebrewing or don't have a problem with making the perfect espresso.
The 1878 compensation siphon balancer developed by German engineer H. Eicke is a early steam-driven machine. The steam produced by this device is pushed through a filter made of ground beans, which are then depressurized by heat of an open flame spirit burner. This technique produces a robust shot but does not provide the quality of consistency that a lot of espresso drinkers prefer.
Luigi Bezzera patented improvements in 1901 which led to the next breakthrough. His design was able to lower the temperature of the boiler, allowing for more stable pressure and temperature control. Bezzera included a piston device to help make this machine semiautomatic. The only problem was that it required the barista to grind, measure and tamp the beans manually.
This led to the development of an espresso machine that is driven by a pump. In contrast to the steam-driven machines of the past that were heated with an open flame, this new type of machine has an electric pump capable of generating the pressure levels needed for brewing espresso. These machines can either accept water directly from an existing cold water line which is common in commercial establishments or use a separate tank that is filled with water by hand.
These machines also come with two temperature settings that can be controlled by the push of a button. One of these buttons turns on the temperature of the brew while the other switch on the steam temperature. This kind of machine is more accurate than older steam-driven models and can produce consistent shots for only a fraction of the price of more expensive models.
Semi-automatic
Semi-automatic machines are the best option for those looking to brew their espresso quickly and easily. bosch espresso machine can eliminate barista training by automatizing the process of grinding, tamping and extraction to produce consistently good results. However, it doesn't do everything for you. You'll still need to grind the beans and tamp them in the portafilter prior to the water is pushed through them.
Many amateur and professional coffee-lovers prefer to use a semi-automatic machine because they like the feeling of being more involved in the brewing process. They are also less expensive than their fully-automatic equivalents and are generally more reliable.
These espresso machines are typically found in coffee shops that are not specialty and at home of casual coffee lovers who are willing to spend more money to enjoy convenience. Dual boilers allow steam and brewing process to be kept separate. One is used for heating while the other is used to prepare your favorite beverage. Some models come with a built in grinder which can save users much time.
The built-in espresso grinder is often limited in its settings, which can frustrate those who wish to alter the process of brewing their own espresso. The best solution is to use a semi-automatic espresso machine with an external grinder to get full control over the size of the grind and the amount.
If you're looking to purchase an espresso machine that is semi-automatic, make sure to look for one with a high-quality, low-noise electric pump and precision temperature regulation via the PID controller. The PID is a piece of technology usually found in immersion circulators and high-end toaster ovens. It helps stabilize a brewing kettle by measuring the temperature variations 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 brewing and steaming modes quickly (if it does not have dual boilers). A semi-automatic model with all these features can be an excellent option for those who don't wish to learn how to make high-quality cafe drinks, but still want to play around.
Manual
Manual espresso machines operate with levers which push the coffee grounds through a bed. This results in highly concentrated shots. They are generally less expensive than semi-automatic and fully automatic counterparts, which makes them popular for those who appreciate a fine cup of coffee.
Manual espresso machines require greater attention and expertise from the operator in order to maximize their potential. Choosing the right grinder, ensuring that the brew ratio is correct, and understanding how to dose and tamp your grounds are just some of the things you'll need know before making use of a manual machine.
While some might find the learning curve involved operating a machine manual frustrating however, for those with the right skills, it can be well worth the effort. Adrian Lini, CHOICE's expert barista, believes that if one has the patience and the right tools manual machines can make the best espresso.
In recent years, the hand-operated espresso machine has evolved in both its design and function. It now comes with more sophisticated features, including digital pressure gauges, which allow users to monitor pressure during extraction. Charles, who works for Flair Espresso, says that these machines can be connected with Bluetooth devices to digitally create graphs of flow rates. This allows users to understand how the changing variables during extraction can impact the final outcome.
There are two types of manual espresso machines that are direct and spring-piston. Direct levers include a spring inside their group heads which help to increase the pressure when brewing. They're more expensive than spring-assisted machines but can still be easier to use.
Springs piston machines are limited to the steam valve in their group head. They are more user-friendly however they do not provide as much control of the making process. The ideal machine for you will be based on your budget and personal preferences. Whatever you decide to go with, a manual espresso machine will require a few necessary accessories, such as kettles, coffee grinder and a portafilter that has a removable metal dispersion screen.