Espresso Machines - Which One is Right For Your Home?
The most effective espresso machines are easy to use, clean and produce balanced shots. How do you pick the best espresso machine for your home?
This Breville model, with its quick-heating thermocoil design, and digital convenience is ideal for someone who doesn't have the time to learn barista skills but still wants to make great coffee at home.
Pump-driven
Pump-driven machines make use of an electric pump to supply the force required to prepare espresso. They either take water directly from the mains, as is common in commercial installations, or contain a reservoir that has to be manually filled (common for home espresso machines and smaller commercial espresso machine). Pumps are usually solenoid pistons, which can produce high pressure. Some pump-driven espresso machines have a fixed flow control, while others let you alter the pre-infusion or brewing pressure.
They are the most well-known machines and are perfect for those who want a consistent, high-quality cup of coffee. These machines are simpler to maintain and clean than other models, however they require electricity and space near an outlet.
There are two basic types that are semi-automatics as well as super-automatics. Semi-automatics allow you to control the length of time that the shot is pulled using either a manual switch, or a programmable feature. In addition, you can adjust the grind setting and tamp the coffee. Some semi-automatics have motors that are rotary and others are vibrating. Rotary pumps are quieter and more consistent but require a constant stream of pressurized water.
In contrast, a vibration pump starts off very quietly but can start to sound like a scream once the machine needs to be fed water. Both types have their pros and cons, and you should select the one that fits your lifestyle best.
Pump-driven machines also come in a range of sizes and price. The most expensive models are usually super-automatic and feature multiple boilers that separate the water used for steaming and brewing. The heat exchangers on these models can be set to different temperatures, which can result in some variation in the flavor of the espresso. This additional feature makes them a good choice for the busy home barista, it does increase the cost. The middle of the road is a semi-automatic which is a great value but does not offer as much consistency and versatility as other alternatives.
Steam-driven
Steam-driven machines utilize an easy method to create a powerful espresso. In an airtight container, hot water is heated to create pressure, which is then absorbed into the coffee grounds. This is similar to the process that takes place in a Moka stovetop. These machines are still being used today due to their low cost and compactness. However, these machines don't have the capacity to achieve the 9 bar pressure required for authentic espresso. These models are ideal for those just starting out with homebrewing, 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 pushes boiling beans through filters. The water is then depressurized using heat from an open flame. This makes a powerful shot, however it does not meet the high standard of consistency that many coffee lovers would prefer.
The next advancement came with Luigi Bezzera's 1901 patent improvements. His invention allowed him to lower the temperature in the boiler. This allows for a more consistent temperature and pressure control. Bezzera included an engine piston to make the machine semi-automatic. The only issue was that it took the barista to grind, measure and tamp the beans manually.
This led to the creation of a pump-driven espresso machine. Contrary to older steam-driven machines, which were heated with an open flame, the new kind of machine has an electric pump that is capable of producing the high pressure required to make espresso. These machines can accept water from a cold line which is common in commercial facilities. They can also use an additional water tank that has to be filled manually.
These 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 is more accurate than older steam-driven models and can make consistent shots for less than the cost of the more expensive models.
Semi-automatic
For those who are looking for a way to brew espresso without a lot of hassle, the semi-automatic machine is the solution. It eliminates the need for barista-level training by automatizing the grinding extraction and tamping process to provide consistent results. However, it can't do everything for you. You'll still have to grind the beans and then tamp them in the portafilter before the water is pushed through them.
This is why many amateur and professional coffee drinkers choose semi-automatic machines, since they like the feeling of being in control of the process of making coffee. They also come with less cost than their fully-automated counterparts, and tend to be more reliable too.
These espresso machines are often found in non-specialty shops and in the homes of casual coffee drinkers who are willing pay more for convenience. They come with dual boilers to ensure that the steam and brewing water are kept separate, while one is heating while the other is being used to make the beverage you prefer. Some models include an integrated grinder which can save users lots of time.
However, the built-in grinder often has a limited number of settings which can be a hassle for those than interested in playing around with the process of brewing espresso to make their own personal favorites. It is recommended to combine a semi-automatic espresso machine with an external grinder to ensure full control over the grind size.
If you're looking for a semiautomatic espresso machine, look for one with a low-noise, high-quality electric pump, and a PID temperature controller that can provide precise temperature control. PID controllers are typically found in high-end toaster and immersion circulators. It helps stabilize the brewing system by monitoring variations in temperature during the heating cycle.
A good semi-automatic espresso machine must also come with a steam wand powerful enough to make microfoam and the ability to switch between steaming and brewing modes quickly (if it doesn't have two boilers). With all of these features, a high-quality semi-automatic espresso maker is a great option for those who want to avoid the hassle and expense of learning how to make cafe-quality drinks but still appreciate some flexibility with the process.
Manual
Manual espresso machines use levers to push pressurized water through a bed of finely ground coffee, producing extremely concentrated shots. They are typically less expensive than their semi-automatic or fully automated counterparts, making them popular for those who appreciate a fine cup of coffee.
Manual espresso machines require more attention and skill by the operator to maximize their capabilities. Choosing the right grinder, making sure that the brew ratio is correct and knowing how to properly dose and make sure your grounds are tamping properly are some of the things you'll need to know before using a manual espresso machine.
While some find the learning curve of a manual machine frustrating and difficult but those with the right knowledge can make it worthwhile effort. CHOICE's in-house expert barista, Adrian Lini, says that if you've got the right tools and the patience to learn the basics, a manual espresso maker can give you the best espresso experience.
In recent years, the hand-operated coffee machine has improved in both its form and function. It now has more advanced features, like digital pressure gauges that allow users to monitor 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 various variables during extraction can impact the final outcome.
There are two types of manual espresso machines that are direct and spring-piston. espresso machines for home include springs in their group heads, which helps increase pressure during making. Although they are more expensive, they can be easier to use than spring-assisted machines.
Springs piston machines have only the steam valve within their group head. They are simpler to use but do not offer the same degree of control over the making process. The best type of machine is dependent on your personal preferences and budget. Whatever you decide to go with the manual espresso machine will require a few necessary equipment, such as kettles, a coffee grinder and a portafilter equipped with an adjustable dispersion screen made of metal.