Espresso Machines - Which One is Right For Your Home?
The top espresso machines are easy to use, easy to clean and can produce powerful and balanced shots. How do you pick the most efficient espresso machine for your home?
This Breville model is perfect for those who don't wish to learn barista skills, but still want to enjoy great coffee at home.
Pump-driven
Pump-driven machines utilize an electric pump to deliver the force required to prepare espresso. These machines either accept water directly from the mains, as is common in commercial installations, or they contain a reservoir that has to be manually filled (common for espresso machines used in homes and smaller commercial espresso machines). The pumps that are used are usually solenoid-piston types that can generate high pressure. Some pump-driven espresso machines come with a fixed flow regulator while others let you adjust the pre-infusion and/or brewing pressure.
These are the most popular machines, and are perfect for anyone who wants an consistent, high-quality cup of coffee. These machines are easier to maintain and clean than other models, however they require electricity and a space near an outlet.
There are two basic types of semi-automatics and super-automatics. Semi-automatics let you control the amount of time the shot is pulled for by using an electronic switch or a programmed function. Additionally, you can adjust the grind setting and to tamp the coffee. Some semi-automatics are equipped with motors that are rotary as well as others that vibrate. 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 when the machine has to be fed with water. Both types have pros and cons and you should pick one that suits your lifestyle.
Pump-driven machines also come in a range of sizes and costs. The most expensive machines are typically super-automatic, and include multiple boilers that separate the water for brewing and steaming. These models have heat exchangers that can be set to different temperatures to allow for a variation in the flavor. This is a great feature for the busy barista working at home, but it can increase the cost of their products. Semi-automatics are a great middle place. They aren't expensive however they don't have the same consistency and versatility of other alternatives.
Steam-driven
Steam-driven machines employ simple mechanisms to create an intense espresso. In an 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 inside a stovetop Moka pot. These machines are still in use today because of their affordability and compactness. These machines aren't able to reach the 9 bars of pressure required to make a true espresso. These models are ideal for those who are just beginning with homebrewing or those who don't worry about making the perfect espresso.
A very early example of a steam-driven machine is the 1878 compensation siphon balancing machine created by German engineer H. Eicke. The steam generated by this device is pushed through a filter containing ground beans, which are then depressurized by the heat of an open flame spirit burner. This makes a strong shot, but it doesn't meet the high standard of consistency that a lot of espresso enthusiasts prefer.
Luigi Bezzera patented improvements in 1901, which led to the next breakthrough. His design allowed him to reduce the temperature in the boiler. This allows for a more stable temperature and pressure control. Bezzera included the piston device to make the machine semi-automatic. The only problem was the barista needed to grind and measure beans manually.
This led to the development of a pump-driven espresso machine. This new type of espresso machine, as opposed to the steam-driven models of the past that were heated by an open flame, has an electric pump capable producing the high levels of pressure needed for the brewing of espresso. These machines can accept water from a cold line which is typical in commercial facilities. Or they can use an additional water tank that has to be filled manually.
They also come with two temperature settings that are controlled by a button. One of these buttons switch on the temperature of the brew, while the second switches on the steam temperature. This kind of machine can produce consistent shots at only a fraction of the price it costs as compared to steam-driven models.
Semi-automatic
If you're looking for a way to brew espresso with less effort the semi-automatic machine is the solution. It eliminates the need for barista-level training by automating the grinding, extraction, and tamping processes to produce consistently good results. However, it can't take care of everything for you. You'll still have to grind the beans and then tamp them in the portafilter prior to the water is being pushed through them.
Many amateur and professional coffee-lovers prefer a semi-automatic machine because they enjoy being more involved in the process of brewing. These machines also have an affordable price compared to their fully automated counterparts, and they tend to be more reliable, as well.
These espresso machines are typically found in non-specialty shops and at the homes of casual coffee drinkers who are willing to spend more money for convenience. They have dual boilers, which means that the steam and brewing water are separated while one is heating up and the other is used to prepare your drink of choice. Some models include a built in grinder which can save users much time.
However, the built-in grinder often offers a limited range of settings, which can be frustrating for those interested in tinkering with the process of brewing espresso to make their own personal favorite. A better solution is to pair a semi-automatic espresso machine with an external grinder to have complete control over the size of the grinder and the amount.
If you are interested in a semiautomatic espresso machine be sure to choose one that has an extremely quiet electric pump, and a temperature controller that allows precise temperature regulation. PID controllers are typically found in top-quality toasters and immersion circulators. It assists in stabilizing the brewing system by monitoring variations in temperature during the heating process.
Additionally, a quality semi-automatic machine must have a powerful enough steam wand that can create microfoam and be capable of switching between brewing and steaming modes easily (if it does not have dual boilers). A semi-automatic machine that has all these features can be an ideal choice for those who don't wish to learn how to make drinks that are cafe-quality, but still want to have fun.
Manual
Manual espresso machines use levers to push pressurized water through a bed of finely ground coffee to produce extremely concentrated shots. They are less expensive than semi-automatic or fully automatic machines and are therefore popular with coffee enthusiasts.
Manual espresso machines require more attention and expertise from the operator in order to maximize their potential. You'll also need to choose the right grinder and ensure that the brew proportion is right.
While some people find the process of learning manual machines frustrating and difficult for those who have the right skills can make it worthwhile effort. CHOICE's in- her response , Adrian Lini, says that if you have the right equipment and determination to learn, a manual espresso maker can provide the ultimate espresso experience.
In recent years, hand-operated espresso machines have seen a rise in both design and function with more advanced features like digital pressure gauges that allow users to monitor the pressure during extraction. Charles, who works for Flair Espresso, says that the machines can be paired using Bluetooth devices to draw graphs of flow rate. This allows users to understand how changing variables in extraction can impact the final outcome.
There are two types of manual espresso machines which are spring-piston and direct. Direct levers have springs in their group heads, which helps to increase the pressure when making coffee. Although they are more expensive but they are also easier to use than spring-assisted machines.
Springs piston machines are limited to the steam valve in their group head. They're easier to use than direct lever machines however they don't provide as much control over the process of brewing. The best type of machine is based on your preferences and your budget. Whatever you decide on, a manually operated espresso machine will require a few essentials that include an able filter as well as a coffee mill and kettle.