Espresso Machines

Espresso machines are for making espresso. If you’re not familiar with espresso, it is a traditional Italian coffee that’s made by forcing very hot water through densely compressed coffee grinds with significant pressure. If you love espresso and are in the market for a new espresso machine, there are lots of things to consider before making your purchase.

Espresso Machines

Begin With Research

First, do some research. Check online – there are literally thousands of websites where you can learn about the features of thousands of different styles and types of machines. You can also see what sort of budget you will need to spend to afford the perfect machine for you, and you can also decide whether you want to order it online and have it shipped or go to a local retailer where you can put your hands on it (and possibly try some out) before taking it home. There are different types of espresso machines you should know about beforehand. Each has its advantages and different functions.

Steam Espresso Machine

A steam-driven machine uses steam to force the water through the coffee grinds. It was the original type produced and it usually costs less because moving parts are not needed.

Steam Driven Espresso Machines

Piston Espresso Machine

A piston-driven machine has a lever that the operator pumps in order to put pressure in the water and force it through the coffee. These can be manual or spring pistons. As implied, with the manual version, the operator forces the fluid through the ground coffee. With the spring version, the operator produces tension on the spring which in turn delivers the pressure to the coffee.

Pump Espresso Machine

Pump machines are typically used commercially since a motor powers the pump and is easier when lots of people want an espresso. If you’re buying for home use, a machine with just one pump will probably be sufficient; one chamber heats the water to brew the coffee then also boils the water to steam the milk used in cappuccinos and lattes. Some high-end versions for use at home are connected right to the plumbing.

Pump Espresso Machines

Commercial Espresso Machines

If you’re buying for a coffee shop or other commercial use, you should consider the higher-grade machines that have a chamber for the steam and and one for the water. These are considered high-end for home use. Pump machines may also have variations of the automatic functions, semi, auto or super-auto, and will depend on how the water is delivered, how pressure is released, and where the grinds and water come from, automatically or filled manually when needed.

Espresso Machine Brands

There are many brands of espresso machines. Depending on the type of machine, your budget, and personal taste, there are many options to choose from. Some of the most well-known names in espresso machines include the following:

Gaggia

Achille Gaggia was the first to produce the pressure brewing machine, more than 60 years ago. It’s a well-known brand across the globe and comes in a range of styles and prices ranging from $250 to nearly $1,000 for the two-boiler, Rapid Steam system models. There are stainless steel and well as colored machines in classic black or an eye-catching red.

Gaggia Espresso Machines

Bosch

Bosch makes several models and range in price from around $240 to about $1,500. The smaller version has 1260 watts of power and a 40 oz. water reservoir. The more expensive model has 1300 watts, digital display, adjusting temperatures, plus an attractive self-cleaning function for the inside of the machine.

Bosch Espresso Machines

Cuisinart

A familiar household name, Cuisinart manufactures some affordable and attractive models for espresso lovers. Their top selling model, the EM-200 is under $400, features a stainless steel finish and buttons that are backlit in blue to indicate specific steps in preparation. They also offer “ESE” (Easy Serve Espresso) pods that are very convenient with the pre-measured coffee in single or double amounts.

Cuisinart Espresso Machines

DeLonghi

DeLonghi reports high marks in critics’ choices of espresso machines. They also have a much lower-priced model at just around $150, making it very affordable for most home-brewers. The BAR32 Retro version has a great black finish, and is compatible with the pods mentioned above, and the curves of coffee machines of years gone by. Of course their higher-end machine, the Gran Dama 6600, has many impressive features, particularly the self cleaning cycle of the automatic frother. You can make your cappuccinos or lattes without the hassle of having to clean the milk system. It also allows you to program your favorite mixture so a simple touch of a button will start the brewing process to get it quickly into your cup.

DeLonghi Espresso Machines

Other Brands

There are many other well known brands of espresso machines available too, including Astra, Espressione, Jura, La Pavoni, Krups, and Rancilio just to name a few. You’ll also want to consider many of the accessories you’ll want to make your espresso bar perfect. These might include cups (espresso, cappuccino, or coffee mugs), grinders to get the right intensity for your taste buds, and the coffee itself.

Maintenance

You’ll also want to keep the maintenance up on your machine since they’re not a small investment. Items like water care cartridges and filters, machine cleaners and detergents, specially-shaped brushes for cleaning the various parts and accessories, as well as grinder cleaning tablets will keep everything in good working condition. Again, before you make your purchase, just do some simple research and consider the points mentioned above. You may also want to look at some consumer reviews of certain models, compare warranties, and take into account how often you’ll use the machine. Ease of use, special features, and cleaning features will make a huge difference down the road, so take your time to find the right espresso machine for you!