Espresso Machines - Which One is Right For Your Home?
The top espresso machines are simple to use, simple to clean, and able to create well-balanced and rich shots. But how do you determine which one is the perfect machine for your home?
This Breville model, with its quick-heating thermocoil design and digital convenience is perfect for anyone who doesn't want to develop barista skills but wants great coffee at home.
Pump-driven
Pump-driven machines use an electric pump to supply the force needed to prepare espresso. These machines typically either accept water from the mains supply, which is common in commercial installations, or a reservoir that is filled manually (common with smaller commercial espresso machines). Pumps are usually solenoid pistons that can generate high pressure. Some espresso machines driven by pumps have a fixed flow regulation, while others let you adjust the pre-infusion and/or brewing pressure.
These are the most popular machines and are ideal for anyone looking for a consistent, high-quality cup of coffee. They are also simpler to clean and maintain than other types of equipment however, they require an amount of electrical power and a space near an outlet.
There are two types of basic: semi-automatics and super-automatics. Semi-automatics let you control the amount of time the shot is pulled by using either a manual switch, or a programmable feature. You can also adjust the grind setting and tamp down the coffee. Some semi-automatics have motors that rotate and others are vibrating. Rotary pumps are quieter, however they require constant flow of pressurized liquid.
A vibrating pump can start off quiet but can start to sound like a scream once the machine needs to be fed with water. Both have pros and cons, and you should pick the one that best suits your lifestyle best.
Pump-driven machines are also available in a range of sizes and price. The most expensive machines are usually super-automatic, and have multiple boilers that separate the water for brewing as well as steaming. These models have heat exchangers that can be set to different temperatures to allow for an array of flavors. This extra feature makes them a good choice for the busy barista at home however, it can increase their price. The middle option is a semi-automatic which can be affordable but doesn't offer the same consistency and flexibility as other alternatives.
Steam-driven
Steam-driven machines employ an easy mechanism to make an intense espresso. In a sealed airtight container hot water is heated in order 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 cost-effectiveness and compactness. However, these machines do not have the ability to produce the 9 bars of pressure needed for true espresso. These models are suitable for those who are just beginning making espresso at home, or who don't care about making the perfect espresso.
One of the earliest examples of a steam-driven device is the compensatory siphon balancing machine in 1878 designed by German engineer H. Eicke. Steam is created by this machine, which is used to push boiling beans through filters. The water is depressurized with heat from an open flame. This makes a strong shot, but it does not meet the standards of consistency that a lot of espresso enthusiasts prefer.
Luigi Bezzera patented improvements in 1901 that led to the next breakthrough. His design allowed him to reduce the temperature in the boiler. This allows for a more constant temperature and pressure control. Bezzera also included a piston device to help make this machine semiautomatic. The only problem was the barista needed to grind, measure, and tamp 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 is equipped with an electric pump capable of generating the pressure levels required to make espresso. The machines can take water directly from the cold water line common in commercial installations or use a separate tank filled with water by hand.
The machines also have two temperature settings that are controlled by a button. One of these buttons is activates the brew thermostat, while another switch is for the steam thermostat. This kind of machine can produce consistent shots at a fraction of what it costs as compared to steam-driven models.
Semi-automatic
For those who are looking for a method to make espresso with less effort The semi-automatic machine could be the solution. It takes away the need for barista training by automatizing the process of grinding, tamping and extraction to give consistent results. It does not do all the work for you. You'll still need to grind the beans, then tamp them down in the portafilter, then push the water through.
Many coffee lovers, both professional and amateur prefer to use a semi-automatic machine because they enjoy the feeling of being more involved in the brewing process. These machines also have an affordable price compared to their fully-automated counterparts, and tend to be more reliable, too.
These espresso machines are typically found in non-specialty shops and at the homes of casual coffee drinkers who are willing spend more money for convenience. They feature dual boilers so that the brewing water and steam are kept separate, while one is heating while the other is used to make your beverage of choice. Some even have a built-in grinder that can be a big time-saver for the user.
However the built-in grinder usually has a limited number of settings, which can be frustrating for those who are more inclined to play around with the process of brewing espresso to make their own personal favorites. The best solution is to pair a semi-automatic espresso machine with an external grinder to have complete control over the grind size and dosage.
If Coffeee looking for an espresso machine that is semi-automatic make sure you choose one with the lowest noise, a high-quality electric pump, and a PID temperature controller that permits precise temperature control. The PID is usually used in high-end toasters and immersion circulators. It aids in stabilizing the brewing process by analyzing the temperature fluctuations throughout the heating process.
In addition, a good semi-automatic machine should have a powerful enough steam wand to produce microfoam and be capable of switching between brewing and steaming modes quickly (if it does not have two boilers). A semi-automatic machine that has all of these features could be an excellent choice for those who don't want to learn how to make cafe-quality drinks, but still want to play around.
Manual
Manual espresso machines utilize levers to push pressurized water across a bed of finely ground coffee, resulting in extremely concentrated shots. These machines are less expensive than semi-automatic or fully automated machines which is why they are popular with coffee enthusiasts.
In contrast to automated espresso machines designed with ease of use in mind, manual espresso makers require more knowledge and focus by the operator to get the most of their potential. Choosing the right grinder, making sure that the brew ratio is in order and knowing how to dose and tap your grounds are some of the things you'll need know prior to using a manual machine.
While some might be able to find the process of learning in operating a manual machine difficult, for those with the right skills, it can be 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, espresso machines that are operated by hand have seen a rise in both design and function with more sophisticated features such as digital pressure gauges that let users monitor the pressure during extraction. Charles who works at Flair Espresso, explains that these machines can also be connected with Bluetooth devices to digitally draw graphs of flow rate which can help users to understand how varying variables during extraction can impact the final outcome.
There are two main kinds of manual espresso machines that are direct and spring piston. Direct levers have a spring inside their group heads, which helps to increase the pressure when brewing. They're more expensive than spring-assisted machines but can still be easier to operate.
Springs piston machines are limited to the steam valve inside their group head. They're much easier to use than direct lever machines, but don't offer as much control over the brewing process. The best machine for you will depend on your budget and personal preferences. Whatever you decide on a manual espresso machine will require a few essentials such as an able filter and a coffee mill and a kettle.