Espresso Machines - Which One is Right For Your Home?
The most effective espresso machines will be easy to use, clean and produce balanced shots. But how do you decide which one is the perfect machine for your home?
This Breville model is ideal for those who don't want to learn barista skills, but still want to enjoy great coffee at home.
Pump-driven
Pump-driven machines rely on an electric pump for the force required to brew espresso. They either take water directly from the mains, as is typical in commercial installations, or they have a reservoir which must be manually filled (common for espresso machines used in homes and smaller commercial espresso machine). Pumps are usually solenoid piston types, which can produce high pressure. Certain espresso machines with pumps have a fixed flow regulation while others allow you to adjust the pre-infusion and/or the brewing pressure.
They are the most well-known machines and are perfect for anyone looking for a steady, high-quality cup coffee. They can also be easier to clean and maintain than other types of machines, but do require a certain amount of electrical power and a space near an outlet.
There are two types of basic of semi-automatics and super-automatics. Semi-automatics let you control 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 tamp down the coffee. Some semi-automatics are rotary, while others are vibrating. Rotary pumps are quieter, but they require a constant flow pressurized liquid.
A vibrating pump begins very quietly but can start to sound like a scream if the machine is supplied with water. Both have pros and cons, and you must pick one that suits your lifestyle.
Coffeee -driven machines also come in a range of sizes and price. The most expensive ones are usually super-automatic, and come with multiple boilers to separate the water used to steam and brew. These models have heat exchangers that can be set at different temperatures to provide variations in flavor. While this extra functionality makes them a great option for the busy home barista, it does increase their price. Semi-automatics can be a good middle option. They can be affordable but they don't provide the same consistency and versatility of other options.
Steam-driven
Steam-driven machines employ a simple mechanism to produce a strong espresso. In a sealed airtight container hot water is heated to create pressure which is then transferred to the coffee grounds. This is similar to the process used in a stovetop Moka pot. These machines are being used today due to their affordability and their compactness. These models aren't capable of reaching the 9 bars of pressure needed to make a true espresso. This is why they are best for those who are just beginning to learn about making espresso at home or aren't concerned about making the perfect espresso.
The 1878 compensation siphon balancer created by German engineer H. Eicke is a very early steam-driven device. The steam produced by this device is pushed through a filter made of ground beans. It is then depressurized by heat of an open flame spirit burner. This process produces a very powerful shot, however it does not meet the standard of consistency that many coffee lovers would prefer.
Luigi Bezzera patented improvements in 1901 which led to the next breakthrough. The design was able to lower the temperature of the boiler, allowing for more stable pressure and temperature control. Bezzera also added an engine-driven device that helped make the machine semi-automatic. The only problem was that it required the barista to grind, measure and tamp the beans manually.
This led to the development of a pump-driven espresso machine. Contrary to older steam-driven machines that were heated with an open flame, this type of machine uses an electric pump capable of producing the high pressure required to make espresso. The machines can take water from a cold line which is common in commercial facilities. They can also use a separate water tank that must be filled manually.
The machines also come with two temperature settings that can be controlled by a button. One of these buttons activates the brew thermostat, while another switch is for the steam thermostat. This type of machine can provide consistent shots for a fraction of what it costs as compared to steam-driven models.
Semi-automatic
If you're looking for an easy method of making espresso with less hassle the semi-automatic machine is the answer. It removes the need for barista-level education by automating the grinding, extraction, and tamping processes to provide consistently good results. But it doesn't complete the entire process for you: You still need to grind the beans and then tamp them in the portafilter before the water is pushed through them.
This is the reason why many amateur and professional coffee lovers prefer a semi-automatic machine, as they feel the satisfaction of having more control during the brewing process. They also come with less cost than their fully automated counterparts, and they tend to be more reliable too.
These espresso machines are often located in shops that are not specialty shops and at the homes of coffee drinkers who want to pay more for convenience. Dual boilers allow the steam and brewing to remain separate. One is used for heating, while the other is used to prepare your favorite beverage. Some have even a built-in grinder, which can be a huge time saver for the user.
The built-in espresso grinder is often limited in its settings, which can be frustrating for those who want to modify the process of making their own espresso. The best solution is to pair a semi-automatic espresso machine with an external grinder to have complete control over the size of the grind and dosage.
If you're looking to purchase a semi-automatic espresso machine, make sure to look for one with a top-quality, low-noise electric pump and precise temperature regulation through the PID controller. PID controllers are typically used in high-end toasters and immersion circulators. It aids in stabilizing the brewing system by monitoring temperature fluctuations during the heating process.
In addition, a good semi-automatic machine must have a powerful enough steam wand to create microfoam. It should also be able to switch between steaming and brewing modes quickly (if it doesn't have dual boilers). A semi-automatic machine that has all of these features is an excellent choice for those who don't wish to learn how to make drinks that are cafe-quality however nonetheless want to play.
Manual
Manual espresso machines use levers to push pressurized water across a bed of finely ground coffee, producing extremely concentrated shots. These machines are traditionally less expensive than their semi-automatic and fully automated counterparts, making them a favorite with coffee enthusiasts who are discerning.
Manual espresso machines require greater attention and experience by the operator to maximize their capabilities. It is also important to select the correct grinder and ensure that the brew percentage is correct.
Although some may find the learning curve involved operating a machine manual difficult, for those with the right set of capabilities, it's well worth the effort. Our expert barista in-house at CHOICE, Adrian Lini, says that if you've got the right tools and the ability to learn how to operate a manual espresso machine, it can give you the best espresso experience.
In recent years, the hand-operated espresso machine has changed in its form and function. It now comes with more advanced features, including digital pressure gauges, which allow users to monitor the pressure during extraction. Charles, who works at Flair Espresso, explains that these machines can also be connected with Bluetooth devices to digitally create graphs of flow rates to help users understand how changing different variables during extraction can affect the final outcome.
There are two types of manual espresso machines which are spring-piston and direct. Direct levers include springs in their group heads which help increase pressure while making espresso. They're more expensive than spring-assisted machines, however, they are still easier to use.
Springs piston machines on the other hand, don't have anything in their group heads other than the steam valve. They are more user-friendly however they do not provide as much control of the brewing process. The choice of the best machine is dependent on personal preference and your budget. Whichever one you choose, an espresso machine that is manual will need a few essential accessories, including kettles, a coffee grinder and a portafilter that has a removable metal dispersion screen.