Espresso Machines - Which One is Right For Your Home?
The best espresso machines will be easy to use, clean, and produce balanced shots. How do you choose the most efficient espresso machine for your home?
This Breville model with its rapid-heating thermocoil design and digital ease of use is perfect for anyone who doesn't have the time to learn barista skills but still wants to make excellent coffee at home.
Pump-driven
Pump-driven machines depend on an electric motor for the force required to brew espresso. They either take water directly from the mains, which is common in commercial installations, or they contain a reservoir that has to be manually filled (common for household espresso machines and smaller commercial espresso machines). The pumps that are used are usually solenoid-piston types that can generate high levels of pressure. Certain espresso machines that are driven by pump systems have fixed flow rates, while others allow you to alter the pre-infusion pressure or brewing pressure.
The most popular type of machine, they are a great choice for anyone who wants to make quality coffee quickly and consistently. They can also be easier to maintain and clean than other kinds of machines however, they require an amount of electrical power and space near an outlet.
They come in two basic types: semi-automatic and super-automatic. Semi-automatics let you regulate the amount of time the shot is pulled using either a manual switch or a feature that can be programmed. Additionally, you can alter the grind setting or tamp the coffee. Certain semi-automatics feature motors that rotate as well as others that vibrate. Rotary pumps are quieter however, they require a constant flow of pressurized liquid.
A vibrating pump on the other hand, is able to start very quietly. However, it can sound like a scream once water is added to the machine. Both types have their pros and cons, and you should choose the one that best suits your needs best.
Pump-driven machines are also available in a variety of sizes and costs. The most expensive machines are usually super-automatic, and have multiple boilers that separate the water for brewing as well as steaming. These models come with heat exchangers which can be set at different temperatures to allow for variations in flavor. While this extra functionality makes them a great option for busy baristas at home however, it will increase the cost. The middle ground is a semi-automatic, which can be very affordable but doesn't provide the same level of consistency and versatility as other options.
Steam-driven
Steam-driven machines utilize an easy system to make an intense espresso. In a sealed airtight container hot water is heated in order to create pressure, which is then transferred into the coffee grounds. This is similar to what happens in the stovetop moka kettle and these machines are popular today due to their low cost and compact size. These models are not able to reach the 9 bar pressure needed for a truly espresso. This makes them best for those just beginning to learn about making espresso at home or aren't concerned about making the perfect espresso.
The balancer for compensation in 1878 created by German engineer H. Eicke is a very early steam-driven device. Steam is created by this machine, which is used to push boiling beans through a filter. The water is then depressurized using heat from an open flame. This technique produces a robust shot but does not meet the high standards of consistency that a lot of espresso enthusiasts prefer.
The next step forward was Luigi Bezzera's 1901 patented improvements. The design was able to lower the temperature of the boiler, allowing for more stable pressure and temperature control. Bezzera also included the piston-based device, which made the machine semi-automatic. The only issue was that it required the barista time to grind, measure and tamp the beans manually.
This led to the development of the pump-driven espresso machine. Unlike the older steam-driven machines, which were heated with an open flame, this new type of machine uses an electric pump that is capable of generating the high pressure needed for brewing espresso. These machines can either accept water directly from the cold water line typical in commercial facilities or use a separate tank that is filled with water by hand.
These machines also have two temperature settings that are controlled by one button. One of these buttons switches on the temperature of the brew, while the other one controls the steam temperature. Coffeee of machine can provide consistent shots for a fraction of what it costs compared to older steam-driven models.
Semi-automatic
If you're looking for a method of making espresso with less effort, the semi-automatic machine is the solution. It removes the need for barista-level training by automatizing the grinding, extraction, and tamping processes to provide consistent results. But it doesn't do everything for you. You'll still must grind the beans and then tamp them in the portafilter prior to the water is pushed through them.
This is why many professional and amateur coffee drinkers choose semi-automatic machines, since they feel the satisfaction of having more control throughout the process of brewing. They are also less costly than fully-automatic counterparts and tend to be more reliable.
These espresso machines are often found in shops that are not specialty and at the homes of coffee drinkers who are willing spend more money for convenience. Dual boilers allow the steam and brewing to remain separate. One is used to heat while the other is used to make your favorite beverage. Some even have a built-in grinder that could be a major time-saver for the user.
However the built-in grinder usually offers a limited range of settings, which can be frustrating for those who are more interested in tinkering with the process of brewing espresso to create their own personal favorite. It is recommended to combine a semi-automatic espresso machine with an external grinding to ensure total control over the grind size.
If you're looking to purchase an espresso machine that is semi-automatic, make sure to look for one that has a high-quality electric pump with low-noise, and precision temperature regulation via a PID controller. The PID is usually found in high-end toaster and immersion circulators. It aids in stabilizing the brewing process by analyzing temperature fluctuations during the heating process.
A good semi-automatic espresso machine must also come with a steam wand that is powerful enough to make microfoam and the ability to switch between brewing and steaming modes quickly (if it does not have dual boilers). A semi-automatic machine with all these features can be an excellent choice for those who don't wish to learn how to make high-quality cafe drinks, but nonetheless want to play.
Manual
Manual espresso machines use levers to push pressurized water across a bed of finely ground coffee, resulting in extremely concentrated shots. They are generally less expensive than semi-automatic and fully automatic counterparts, making them a favorite among discerning coffee lovers.
Manual espresso machines require greater attention and experience from the operator to maximize their capabilities. Selecting the right grinder, ensuring that the brew ratio is in order, and understanding how to properly dose and tamp your grounds are just some of the things you'll need to know prior to making use of a manual machine.
While some find the process of learning manual machines difficult and frustrating but those with the right knowledge are able to make it worth the effort. Adrian Lini, CHOICE's expert barista says that if one has patience and the right tools, a manual machine will make the finest 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 while extracting. Charles who works at Flair Espresso, explains that these machines can also be used with Bluetooth devices to digitally draw graphs of flow rate to help users understand how changing various variables during extraction could affect the final outcome.
There are two main kinds of manual espresso machines that are direct and spring piston. Direct levers are equipped with a spring in their group heads to boost pressure during the brewing process. Although they cost more but they are also easier to use than spring-assisted machines.
Springs piston machines only have the steam valve in 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 to go with, a manual espresso machine will need a few essential accessories, such as kettles, coffee grinder and a portafilter that has an adjustable dispersion screen made of metal.