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Espresso Machines - Which One is Right For Your Home?
The top espresso machines are simple to use, simple to clean and able to make well-balanced and rich shots. But how do you determine which one is the right fit for your home?
This Breville model is ideal for those who don't wish to learn barista skills, but still want to enjoy great coffee at home.
Pump-driven
Pump-driven machines make use of an electric pump to deliver the force needed to make espresso. These machines either accept water directly from the mains as is typical in commercial installations, or contain a reservoir that has to be filled manually (common for household espresso machines and smaller commercial espresso machine). The pumps that are used are usually solenoid-piston designs that can create high levels of pressure. Certain espresso machines that are driven by pump systems have fixed flow rates, while others let you adjust the pre-infusion or brewing temperature.
The most popular type of machine, these are a good choice for anyone who wants to make coffee of high quality quickly and consistently. They are also simpler to maintain and clean than other kinds of machines however they do require some electrical power and space near an outlet.
There are two main types that are semi-automatics as well as super-automatics. Semi-automatics let you control the length of time that the shot is pulled with an electronic switch or a programmed function. Additionally, you can alter the grind setting or make sure that the coffee is tamper-proof. Some semi-automatics are rotary, while others are vibrating. Rotary pumps are quieter however they require constant flow of pressurized liquid.
In contrast, a vibration pump begins very quietly but can start to sound like a scream once the machine is fed water. Both have pros and cons, and you should select the one that suits your lifestyle the best.
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 for brewing and steaming. professional espresso machine on these machines can be set to various temperatures, allowing for some variation in the flavor of the espresso. This feature is ideal for the busy barista working at home, but it can increase the price. Semi-automatics can be a good middle option. They can be reasonably priced but they don't provide the same consistency and versatility of other alternatives.
Steam-driven
Steam-driven machines employ a simple system to produce a powerful espresso. In a sealed airtight container hot water is steamed to create pressure, which is then transferred into the coffee grounds. This is similar to the process that takes place in a Moka stovetop. These machines are in use today because of their cost-effectiveness and their compactness. However, these models don't have the capacity to reach 9 bars of pressure required for true espresso. These models are suitable for those just starting out with homebrewing or don't care about making the perfect espresso.
The earliest example of a steam-driven device is the compensatory siphon balancing machine in 1878 designed by German engineer H. Eicke. Steam is produced by this machine, which pushes boiling beans through an aerator. The water is then depressurized with heat from an open flame. This technique produces a robust shot, but doesn't meet the high standards of consistency that a lot of espresso drinkers like.
The next advancement came with Luigi Bezzera's 1901 patent improvements. His design allowed him to lower the temperature in the boiler. This enables more consistent temperature and pressure control. Bezzera also included the piston-based device, which made the machine semi-automatic. The only problem was the barista needed to grind and measure beans manually.
This led to the creation of a pump-driven espresso machine. This type of espresso machine, as opposed to the steam-driven models of the past, which were heated by an open flame, features an electric pump capable of generating high levels of pressure required for brewing the espresso. The machines can take water from a cold line, which is common in commercial establishments. Or they can use a separate water tank that needs to be filled manually.
These machines also have two temperature settings, which are controlled by one button. One of these buttons switches on the temperature of the brew while the second switches on the steam temperature. This kind of machine is able to make consistent shots at only a fraction of the price it costs as compared to steam-driven models.
Semi-automatic
Semi-automatic machines are the best option for those looking to brew their espresso quickly and efficiently. It eliminates the need for barista-level instruction by automating the grinding, extraction and tamping process to ensure consistent results. However, it can't complete the entire process for you: You still have to grind the beans and tamp them in the portafilter before the water is being pushed through them.
Many coffee lovers, both professional and amateur, prefer to use semi-automatic coffee makers because they enjoy the feeling of being more involved in the process of making coffee. They are also less costly than fully automated counterparts and are generally more reliable.
These types of espresso machines are usually located in non-specialty coffee shops and at home of casual coffee drinkers who are willing to spend more money for convenience. Dual boilers allow the steam and brewing to be kept separate. One is used to heat while the other is used to prepare your preferred beverage. Some even have a built-in grinder that can be a big time-saver for the user.
However the built-in grinder typically has a limited selection of settings, which can be frustrating for those inclined to play around with the process of making espresso to create their own personal favorites. The best solution is to use a semi-automatic espresso machine with an external grinder to have full control over the size of the grinder and dosage.
If you're looking to purchase a semi-automatic espresso machine, ensure that you select one with a top-quality electric pump that is low-noise and has precise temperature regulation through the PID controller. PID controllers are typically used in high-end toasters and immersion circulators. It aids in stabilizing the brewing process by analyzing temperature fluctuations during the heating process.
Furthermore, a high-quality semi-automatic machine must have a sufficient steam wand to produce microfoam. It should also be capable of switching between steaming and brewing modes easily (if it doesn't have dual boilers). With all of these features, a quality semi-automatic espresso maker is an ideal choice for those who want to get rid of the hassle and expense of learning to make cafe-quality drinks but still enjoy some degree of tinkering with the process.
Manual
Manual espresso machines use levers to push pressurized water through a bed of finely ground coffee, producing highly concentrated shots. They are cheaper than semi-automatic or fully automated machines, which makes them popular with coffee drinkers.
Manual espresso machines require more focus and expertise by the operator to maximize their capabilities. Choosing the right grinder, making sure that the brew ratio is right, and understanding how to dose and make sure your grounds are tamping properly are some of the things you'll need to know prior to using a manual espresso machine.
While some people may find the learning curve in operating a manual machine frustrating but for those with the right set of abilities, it is worthwhile. Our expert barista in-house at CHOICE, Adrian Lini, says that if you've got the right equipment and determination to learn the basics, a manual espresso maker will give you the best espresso experience.
In recent years, hand-operated espresso machines have improved in both appearance and function with more advanced features like digital pressure gauges that allow users to track the pressure while extracting. Charles, who works at Flair Espresso, explains that these machines can also be paired by Bluetooth devices to create graphs of flow rates, helping users to understand how varying variables during extraction can impact the final outcome.
There are two types of manual espresso machines that are direct and spring piston. Direct levers feature a spring inside their group heads which help to increase the pressure when making coffee. They're more expensive than spring-assisted machines, however, they are still easier to operate.
Springs piston machines have only the steam valve inside their group head. They are easier to use however they do not provide the same degree of control over the making process. The right machine for you will be based on your budget and personal preferences. Whatever you decide on, a manually operated espresso machine will require a few basic components, including the ability to carry a filter around, a coffee mill, and kettle.