Do you want to make that cup of espresso by yourself? With the best espresso machine at your disposal, you get the job done effortlessly. Some espresso machine types include: pump, steam, semi-automatic, and super-automatic.
With the right machine, you create gourmet coffee that brings out the coffee beans’ potential. You get rich, dark, and highly concentrated brews that are favored by coffee shops. Pick the right espresso machine depending on your budget.
Espresso Machine Reviews
SAECO HD8954/47 Philips Xelsis
HD8954/47 Philips Xelsis by Saeco is a full-feature fully-automatic espresso machine. It uses a built-in ceramic grinder and double boiler for fast, high quality coffee experience. A dual chamber milk carafe ensures perfect froth. It allows 6 profile setting.
Breville BES980XL
Breville’s BES980XL Oracle Espresso automates dosing, grinding, tamping and milk texturing to deliver cafe quality espresso the easy way. It features a double boiler for simultaneous brewing and milk frothing. It supports customization for shot duration, volume and temperature.
DeLonghi ECAM23460S
DeLonghi’s ECAM23460S is a digital super automatic machine, which lets you grind, brew and prepare creamy latte and cappuccino quickly and easily. It uses a twin-shot brewing cycle for a perfect pair of coffee cups. It is compact and easy-to-clean.
KRUPS EA8808 2-in-1
KRUPS EA8808 is a fully automatic coffee machine. It uses an integrated built-in burr grinder for fast and easy brewing of a great range of gourmet drinks. Its 2-in-1 function lets you prepare two lattes or cappuccino simultaneously.
Breville BES870XL Barista Express
BES870XL Barista Express by Breville comes with a conical burr grinder, which can grind one ½-pound of fresh coffee beans. This stainless steel grinder optimizes espresso flavor extraction. Its smooth interface lets you control filter size and shot volume easily.
Gaggia Brera Superautomatic
Gaggia Brera Superautomatic espresso machine uses a powerful motor to grind coffee beans to a fine consistency. Its pre-infusion brewing system maximizes flavor extraction and aroma. It uses a small water tank that you need to refill after 4 or 5 shots.
Mr. Coffee BVMC-ECMP1000
Mr. Coffee BVMC-ECMP1000 features a one-touch control panel to pull shots of espresso, latte, or cappuccino automatically. Its automatic milk frother is great for making cafe-style creamy drinks. Its removable milk reservoir is refrigerator-friendly.
KitchenAid KES0503OB Nespresso
KES0503OB Nespresso by KitchenAid uses an innovative 19-bar pressure system for high quality coffee every time. It features an easy loading capsule system for convenient and quick coffee preparation. It comes with a removable 1.3 liter water tank.
DeLonghi EC155
DeLonghi’s EC155 15 BAR Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Maker has dual function filter holder for fast and easy preparation. Its swivel jet frother is great for creating rich and creamy coffee any time. Its self-priming operation eliminates start up hassles.
Nespresso Inissia Espresso Maker
Nespresso’s Inissia Espresso Maker boasts of fast 25 seconds preheat time. It features an automatic power off system, compact brewing unit, and 2 buttons for programming espresso and lungo preparation. It only brews Nespresso coffee capsules.
Types of Espresso Machines
Different espresso machines are currently available to buyers at present. If you are searching for one, then consider choosing from the following types – all of which can give you full control over the taste of your espresso.
Manual Espresso Machine – Since it’s a manually operated machine, you still need to carry out all the procedures designed to brew espresso. You need to pour water manually, add coffee grinds and control the frother.
Semi-automatic Espresso Machine – It has electric pumps that promote even and hands-free water pressure. It has automated temperature controls, and provides users with the freedom to turn its pumps on or off, making it semi-automatic.
Fully Automatic Espresso Machine – You can produce espresso using this type without your full participation in the process. It features a fully integrated water system directly attached to the water supply.
It also features a coffee grinder designed to grind the beans automatically. This is the most convenient espresso machine as you just need to push a button to make it work.
Steam-driven Espresso Machine – This machine uses steam pressure to work. This low-cost machine makes use of steam pressure to make espresso by pushing water into a coffee-ground container.
Reasons to Buy an Espresso Machine
Owning your own espresso machine can provide you with numerous benefits. Here are just some of the valid reasons why you should consider investing in a good espresso machine:
Helps you save money – Expect to save money in the future when you decide to invest in an espresso machine. It is because you can produce your own at home, thereby reducing the amount spent on coffee shops.
Prepares espresso fast – This will let you quickly get your morning fix. There’s no need for you to wait a long time to get high quality beverage. It works fast that you can easily fit it into your morning ritual.
Gives you full control – You can fully control the entire espresso-making process with the aid of your machine. You can control the temperature, flavor, etc. by just using the built-in features.
Provides several options – The machine can provide you with several options in terms of your morning coffee, daily life and entertainment. Aside from espresso, you can also use it to make other delicious beverages like macchiato, cappuccino and latte.
Promotes convenience – Espresso machines are convenient because they have almost everything that you need to produce the perfect cups. It could be their high capacity, drain system, durable material, and other features. These make it easier to make several cups of espresso anytime.
How to Choose the Best Espresso Machine?
Still undecided about which of the espresso machine models you should buy? Then take the following factors and features into consideration as these will help you decide which one will work for you.
Grinding Capacity – Some espresso machines already feature a built-in grinder, while others require you to use a separate grinder to work. If you plan to brew a lot of coffee, then an espresso machine with a high capacity grinder is ideal.
Water Filter – The machine should also have built-in water filter. It is useful in removing chlorine and the iron taste of water. It also minimizes that scale that may accumulate in the machine over time.
Water Storage – It is also important to factor in the water storage capacity of the machine. If possible, go for one, which can hold up to eight cups of espresso.
Housing – Espresso machines are constructed out of either metal or plastic housing. If you find plastic bothersome, then going for one with the more durable metal housing is a wise move.
Durability – You also need to check the durability of the machine. Look for one, which can work all day without the risk of malfunctioning. It should be capable of handling too much pressure.
How to Maintain your Espresso Machine?
Your espresso machine can produce great espresso every time you need it. However, you need to take good care of it so it can serve you for a long time. Here are some ways to maintain its excellent function and condition:
Scrub the group head – You can use a small scrubbing pad and coffee detergent for this. Avoid using dish detergent as this tends to leave residue, which can negatively affect the flavor of your coffee.
Clean it every day – Keep the area where you brew coffee completely clean. You also need to get rid of any buildup of coffee in the basket every day. Do so through proper rinsing and scouring. Drip tray should also be emptied then rinsed with water.
Clean the steam wand – Just disassemble it then submerge it in a detergent and hot water combination. Leave it soaked for around 15 to 20 minutes. Wipe then purge right after soaking. Dislodge crusty milk from its tip holes.
Check the filter every month – Replace the filter when necessary. You need a fully functional water filter to ensure proper brewing. This will ensure the constant use of clean water, thereby preventing your espresso from having a chemical flavor, and your machine from accumulating calcium deposits.
Decalcify every three to four months – Despite the good condition of your water filtration, calcium still builds up in the boiler tank. This will eventually affect the flavor of the espresso, making it too bitter, and causing damage to the machine.
