How to Pick the Best Espresso Machine for Your Needs
For the perfect little pick-me-up.
Having an espresso machine in the house will help you save time and streamline your mornings. If you’re going to pick out the best espresso machine for you, you should know about the different features available. Read on to learn about the many types of espresso machines.
Step 1: Determine if an Espresso Machine Is Right for You
These machines are geared toward connoisseurs who are looking for a good-quality coffee that they can enjoy at home. Here are a few things to consider to help you decide if it's the right purchase for you.
Counter Space: Do you have enough counter space? As an appliance dedicated primarily to making espressos, it is more or less single-use. If your counter space is limited and you don't often brew espresso, either choose a smaller version that is easy to tuck away or perhaps go for a different more multipurpose machine.
Budget: Your budget will determine exactly what model you should get. These high-end machines increase in price depending on the type as well as the additional features it includes. If you regularly purchase espresso-based beverages, one of these machines could help offset the cost and save you time.
Experience: Making espresso isn't exactly rocket science, but there is a learning curve to any new machine. You need to consider how much you want to be involved in the brewing process. Do you want it to time the shot for you? Will you be grinding your own beans? This will give you a clearer idea of your needs.
Step 2: Determine the Right Type of Espresso Machine
Each of these four machines offers different levels of involvement in the espresso-making process.
Fully Automatic: For this option, you must grind and tamp the beans and then place the grounds and water in the machine. The fully automatic espresso machine then pushes the water through the grounds for a designated amount of time. Once complete, the machine dispenses the perfectly brewed espresso shot.
Semiautomatic: A semiautomatic machine offers more control over the brewing process. You still have to grind and tamp your coffee grounds before adding them to the machine, but you decide when to stop brewing. This gives you more say on the flavor of your espresso shot. A longer brew time will result in a lighter and more acidic espresso, while a shorter brew time will result in a heavier and sweeter espresso.
Stove-Top: A stove-top espresso maker, also known as a moka pot, is a pitcher-like device with three removable compartments. You place filtered water in the bottom half and coffee grounds in the middle filter before securing the top half. The pot is then placed on the stovetop on medium heat. The water will evaporate into the top chamber as it filters through the coffee grounds, creating a lovely espresso. This device is favored for its simplicity and control over the final product.
Latte Machine: A latte is made with a double shot of espresso and steamed milk mixed together, while a cappuccino leaves the frothy milk foam on top. A latte machine will brew your espresso while you use the milk frother to steam your milk. Once your espresso is brewed, you pour the milk into the espresso to create the drink of your choice.
(Shop this image: espresso machines, coffee mugs, kitchen canisters and jars, and wood cutting boards)
Beyond making espresso, many of these machines offer extra features.
Additional Beverages: Some espresso makers can make more than an espresso shot. Additional beverages may include cappuccinos, lattes, Americanos, mochas, espresso macchiatos, or regular coffee. Check out the description of your machine to find out which additional beverages it can make.
Automatic Start: A machine with an automatic start does everything for you. If you want to wake up to a fresh cup of espresso in the morning, you can enter a time you’d like the machine to start brewing the next day.
Automatic Shutoff: An automatic shutoff feature powers down the espresso machine after a certain amount of inactivity (on some models you can choose the duration). This helps save energy and offers additional safety.
Included Grinder: An espresso machine with an included grinder will grind your coffee for you, removing the need for a separate tool. Because the size of the grounds can impact the flavor, these automatic grinders often feature multiple settings to ensure your coffee is perfectly ground to your liking.
Milk Frother: Whether the machine uses an automatic frothing system or you control the manual steam wand, this feature creates beautiful milk froth to make lattes and cappuccinos with. Some machines can also make microfoam that is suitable for creating latte art.
Coffee Brewing: Ideal for those who like to drink cappuccino and regular brewed coffee too, these dual-brewing machines offer the best of both worlds. Many options include features like brew strength control, cup size selection, and temperature control settings so you can make your cup just the way you like it.
Pod Compatibility: These espresso machines are designed to be used with coffee pods only. They are convenient and easy to use. Instead of grinding the beans or measuring grounds, you simply insert the pod, push the button, and your espresso machine will do the rest.
Hot Water Dispenser: This is one of the most versatile espresso machines you can get. In addition to espresso, the hot water dispenser allows you to make other hot beverages like tea or hot chocolate, or even oatmeal and instant soups.
Compact Storage: The slim profile and more footprint of a compact espresso machine will conserve space, making it ideal for small kitchens or limited countertops. It can also easily be stored in cabinets when not in use. Plus, some models offer built-in storage compartments for your coffee tools for quick access.
