Espresso Machines - Which One is Right For Your Home?
The top espresso machines are simple to use, simple to clean and able to create rich and balanced shots. But how do you know which one is the perfect 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 depend on an electric pump for the force required to make espresso. These machines typically either accept water from a mains supply, as is typical for commercial installations, or a reservoir that has to be filled manually (common with household and smaller commercial espresso machines). Pumps are usually solenoid pistons, which can generate high pressure. Some espresso machines with pump-driven systems have a fixed flow rate, while others allow you to alter the pre-infusion or brewing temperature.
The most popular kind of machine, they are an excellent choice for anyone who wants to make coffee of high quality quickly and consistently. They can also be easier to clean and maintain than other types of machines however they do require some electrical power and a space near an outlet.
There are two types of basic that are semi-automatics as well as super-automatics. Semi-automatics let you 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 to tamp the coffee. Certain semi-automatics are rotary while others are vibrating. Rotary pumps are quieter and more reliable however they require a constant flow of pressurized water.
A vibrating pump, on contrary, begins very quietly. However, it can make a loud noise once water is added to the machine. Both types have their pros and cons and you should choose the one that fits your needs best.
Pump-driven machines are also available in a variety of sizes and costs. The most expensive ones are typically super-automatic and have multiple boilers to separate the water used to steam and brew. These models have heat exchangers which can be set at different temperatures to allow for an array of flavors. While this extra functionality makes them a good choice for busy baristas at home however, it can increase their price. Semi-automatics can be a good middle place. They aren't expensive, but they don't offer the same quality and flexibility of other options.
Steam-driven
Steam-driven machines utilize an easy method to create an espresso that is powerful. 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 what happens in the stovetop moka kettle and they are popular today due to their low cost and compact size. These models are not able to reach the 9 bars of pressure needed for true espresso. This makes them best for those just starting out with home brewing or aren't concerned with making the perfect espresso.
One of the earliest examples of a steam-driven machine is the compensatory siphon balancing machine in 1878 developed by German engineer H. Eicke. Steam is produced by this machine, which carries boiling beans through a filter. The water is depressurized with heat from an open flame. This makes a powerful shot, however it does not meet the standards of consistency that a lot of espresso enthusiasts would prefer.
The next advancement came with Luigi Bezzera's 1901 patented improvements. The design of his invention allowed him to reduce the temperature of the boiler. This allows for a more stable temperature and pressure control. Bezzera also included a piston device to help make this machine semiautomatic. The only problem was that it took the barista to grind, measure and tamp the beans manually.
This led to the creation of the pump-driven espresso machine. This brand new espresso machine, as opposed to the older steam-driven ones, which were heated by an open flame, has an electric pump that is capable producing the high levels of pressure required for brewing the espresso. These machines can accept water directly from the cold water line common in commercial installations, or they can use a separate tank that is filled with water manually.
These machines also come with two temperature settings that can be controlled by one button. One of these buttons activates the brew thermostat, and the other switches on the steam thermostat. This kind of machine is more accurate than older steam-driven machines and can make consistent shots for only a fraction of the price of the more expensive models.
Semi-automatic
Semi-automatic machines are a great choice for those who want to make espresso quickly and easily. It eliminates barista training by automatizing the process of grinding, tamping and extraction to ensure consistently good results. It doesn't do all the work for you. You still have to grind the beans, tamp them down in the portafilter, then push the water through.
Many amateur and professional coffee-lovers prefer to use a semi-automatic machine because they like the feeling of being more involved in the process of making coffee. These machines also have an affordable price compared to their fully automated counterparts, and tend to be more reliable too.
These espresso machines are typically found in coffee shops that are not specialty and in the homes of casual coffee lovers who are willing to pay more for convenience. Dual boilers allow the steam and brewing to be kept separate. One is used for heating, while the other is used to make your preferred beverage. Some have even a built-in grinder that can be a big time-saver for the user.
However, the built-in grinder often has a limited number of settings, which can be frustrating for those who are more interested in tinkering with the process of making espresso to create their own personal favorite. It is best to use a semi-automatic espresso machine with an external grind to have full control over the grind size.
If you're looking for an espresso machine that is semi-automatic make sure you choose one with an extremely quiet electric pump, and a PID temperature controller that can provide precise temperature control. The PID is a piece of technology that's typically used in immersion circulators and high-end toaster ovens. It can help stabilize a brewing kettle by monitoring the temperature changes during the heating process.
A good semi-automatic espresso machine will also have a steam wand that is 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 an ideal choice for those who wish to get rid of the hassle and expense of learning to make high-quality coffee but have fun experimenting with the process.
Manual
Manual espresso machines operate with levers that push coffee grounds pressurized through the bed. This results in highly concentrated shots. They are generally cheaper than their semi-automatic and fully automatic counterparts, making them popular among discerning coffee lovers.
Manual espresso machines require greater attention and skill from the operator in order to maximize their potential. You'll also need to choose the correct grinder and make sure that the brew percentage is correct.
While some people may be able to find the process of learning operating a machine manual frustrating but for those who have the right capabilities, it's worth the effort. Adrian Lini, CHOICE's expert barista, believes that if one has the patience and the right tools, a manual machine will make the finest espresso.
In recent years, the hand-operated espresso machine has improved in both its design and function. It now includes more sophisticated features, including digital pressure gauges, which allow users to monitor the pressure during extraction. Charles who is employed by Flair Espresso, says that these machines can be used using Bluetooth devices to draw graphs of flow rate. This aids users in understanding how changing variables in extraction can impact the final outcome.
There are two types of manual espresso machine: direct and spring-piston. Direct levers include springs inside their group heads that helps increase pressure while brewing. Although they are more expensive but they are also easier to use than spring-assisted machines.
Springs piston machines on the other hand, have nothing in their group heads other than the steam valve. They are easier to use but do not offer as much control over the making process. The right machine for you will depend on your budget and your personal preferences. Whatever espressomachines decide to go with a manual espresso machine will need a few essential equipment, such as kettles, a coffee grinder and a portafilter equipped with an adjustable dispersion screen made of metal.