Espresso Machines - Which One is Right For Your Home?
The best espresso machines will be easy to use, clean and produce balanced shots. But how do you determine which one is the best one for your home?
This Breville model is perfect for those who don't wish to learn barista skills, but still want great coffee at home.
Pump-driven
Pump-driven machines make use of an electric pump to supply the force required for espresso brewing. These machines either accept water directly from the mains as is the norm in commercial installations, or they contain a reservoir that has to be manually filled (common for household espresso machines and smaller commercial espresso machines). The pumps used are often solenoid-piston models that can produce high pressure. Some espresso machines with pump-driven systems have a fixed flow rate, while others let you adjust the pre-infusion or brewing pressure.
These are the most popular machines, and are perfect for anyone who wants an steady, high-quality cup coffee. They are simpler to maintain and clean than other types, but they require electricity and space near an outlet.
There are two basic types of semi-automatics and super-automatics. Semi-automatics allow you to control the amount of time the shot is pulled using either a manual switch or a programmable feature. In addition, you are able to alter the grind setting or make sure that the coffee is tamper-proof. Some semi-automatics are equipped with motors that are rotary, while others vibrate. Rotary pumps are quieter however, they require a constant flow of pressurized liquid.
A vibrating pump, on contrary, begins with a quiet start. However, it can sound like a scream once water is added to the machine. Both have pros and cons, and you should pick one that is suitable for your needs.
Pump-driven machines come in a range of sizes and price ranges. The most expensive machines are typically super-automatic, and include multiple boilers that separate the water used for brewing and steaming. The heat exchangers in these models can be set to various temperatures, which allows for some variation in the taste of the espresso. This extra feature makes them a great option for the busy home barista however, it will increase the cost. Semi-automatics can be a good middle option. They aren't expensive however they don't have the same consistency and versatility of other options.
Steam-driven
Steam-driven machines utilize an easy method to create an intense espresso. Within an airtight tank, hot water is steamed to create pressure which is then transferred to the coffee grounds to make espresso. This is similar to the process that occurs inside a stovetop moka pot and these machines are being used for their value and small size. However, these machines aren't able to achieve the 9 bar pressure needed for a true espresso. This makes them best for those just starting out with homebrewing or don't have a problem about making the perfect cup of espresso.
The 1878 compensation siphon balancer designed by German engineer H. Eicke is a very early steam-driven device. The steam produced by this device pushes boiling water through a filter of ground beans, which are then depressurized by the heat of an open flame spirit burner. This process produces a powerful shot, but doesn't meet the high standards of consistency that many espresso enthusiasts prefer.
coffee for espresso machine was Luigi Bezzera's 1901 patent improvements. His invention allowed him to lower the temperature of the boiler. This allows for a more constant temperature and pressure control. Bezzera added the piston device to make this machine semi-automatic. The only issue was that it took the barista time to grind, measure and tamp the beans by hand.
This led to the development of a pump driven espresso machine. Contrary to older steam-driven machines that were heated with an open flame, the new kind of machine has an electric pump that is capable of generating the pressure levels required to make espresso. These machines can be able to take water from a cold line which is common in commercial installations. Or they can use an individual water tank that must be filled manually.
These machines also feature two temperature settings controlled by a button. One button activates the brew thermostat while the other switches on the steam thermostat. This kind of machine is able to provide consistent shots for less than what it costs as compared to steam-driven models.
Semi-automatic
Semi-automatic machines are the ideal option for those who want to make espresso quickly and efficiently. It eliminates the need for barista-level training by automating the grinding, tamping and extraction process to produce consistent results. However, it doesn't complete the entire process for you: You still must grind the beans and then tamp them in the portafilter prior to the water is pushed through them.
Many coffee lovers, both professional and amateur, prefer to use semi-automatic machines because they enjoy being more involved in the process of making coffee. These machines also have less cost than their fully-automatic counterparts, and tend to be more reliable, too.
These espresso machines are typically found in shops that are not specialty and in the homes of casual coffee drinkers who want to spend more money for convenience. Dual boilers allow steam and brewing process to be kept separate. One is used for heating while the other is used to make your favorite beverage. Some even have a built-in grinder that could be a major time-saver for the user.
However the built-in grinder usually has a limited number of settings that can be quite frustrating for those who are more interested in tinkering with the process of making espresso to make their own personal preferences. It is recommended to use a semi-automatic espresso machine with an external grinding for complete control over the size of the grind.
If you're interested in a semi-automatic espresso machine make sure to look for one that has a high-quality electric pump that is low-noise and has precise temperature control via a PID controller. The PID is usually found in top-quality toasters and immersion circulators. It helps stabilize the brewing process by analyzing variations in temperature during the heating process.
A good semi-automatic espresso machine will also have an efficient steam wand to produce microfoam, as well as the capability to switch between steaming and brewing modes quickly (if it doesn't include dual boilers). A semi-automatic machine that has all of these features is an excellent choice for those who don't wish to learn how to make drinks that are cafe-quality however, they nonetheless want to play.
Manual
Manual espresso machines are operated by levers that push pressurized coffee grounds through a bed. This results in high-quality shots. These machines are less expensive than semi-automatic or fully automated machines which is why they are popular with coffee drinkers.
Manual espresso machines require more attention and expertise from the operator in order to maximize their potential. You'll also have to select the correct grinder and make sure that the brew percentage is right.
Although some people find the learning curve of a manual machine difficult and frustrating, those with the right skills can make it worth the effort. Adrian Lini, CHOICE's expert barista, believes that if you have the patience and the right equipment, a manual machine can make the best espresso.
In recent years, the hand-operated espresso machine has evolved in both its design and function. It now includes more advanced features, like digital pressure gauges that allow users to monitor the pressure during extraction. Charles, who is employed by Flair Espresso, says that the machines can be paired with Bluetooth devices to digitally draw graphs of flow rate. This aids users in understanding how changing variables in extraction can impact the final outcome.
There are two major types of manual espresso machines including spring piston and direct. Direct levers are equipped with a spring in their group heads, which helps increase the pressure when the brewing process. 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 inside their group head. They are simpler to use however they do not provide as much control of the making process. Choosing the right type of machine will come down to your personal preferences and budget. Whichever one you choose, the manual espresso machine will need a few essential accessories, including kettles, a coffee grinder and a portafilter equipped with the option of removing a dispersion filter made of metal.
