A double boiler lets you cut down on time and do both simultaneously.īurr grinder: The first step to making espresso is finely grinding whole coffee beans, and that’s where a burr grinder comes in. double boiler: An espresso machine with a single boiler means you can’t brew coffee and steam milk at the same time rather, you’ll pull your shot first, wait for the broiler to heat up again, and then steam (or vice-versa). What to Look for in a Home Espresso Machine Super-Automatic Pump: If you’re looking for an all-in-one appliance that handles everything from grinding and tamping to the entire brewing process, this type of machine is for you - but be ready to make an investment. You won’t need to stand by as it will automatically turn off when your espresso is done.
Semi-Automatic Pump: With this type of espresso maker, it’s on you to grind the beans, tamp the grounds into the portafilter, turn the machine on, and turn it off when your shot is ready.Īutomatic Pump: This type of machine will do the brewing for you, but you’ll also need to grind your beans and tamp them down first.
ESPRESSO MACHINE MANUAL
Manual Pump: If you’re looking for a truly hands-on experience, go with an electricity-free option that requires you to manually pump the espresso yourself. Below are some of the most common types of pump-driven appliances:
You can go with a steam-driven option like a stovetop or electric espresso maker (which don’t require any moving parts), or you can go with the more popular pump-driven machine. Things like removable drip trays, built-in grinders, and the portafilter (the handled accessory that holds your coffee grounds during brewing) are all things that need care and cleaning, so keep that in mind too. Maintenance: Your espresso machine will need to be cleaned regularly.
But if you’re ready to expand your repertoire to cappuccinos and beyond, a “prosumer” option might be a worthwhile investment that pays for itself. If you like to keep your routine simple with a single or double shot, you might find you don’t need an all-in-one machine with a built-in frother. Time: You’ll want to think about how much time and effort you really want to devote to your coffee habit. Then, compare your annual costs of buying your beverages to-go versus making them at home. You may also need to buy additional accessories such as a grinder, tamper, frother, and frother pitcher (to name just a few extras) if they’re not included in the machine. You’ll also want to consider how much you’ll be spending on ingredients, including the beans, milk, and sweetener. 'Silence of the Lambs': 'It Broke All the Rules'īudget: Are you willing to put down a pretty penny for a high-end appliance, or do you prefer to start basic to ensure you’re committed to your coffee cause? Home espresso machines can vary from under $100 for a decent one to upwards of $500 and even $2000 and beyond. Here’s what to keep in mind before you buy an espresso machine for home. And if you want to add lattes, cappuccinos, mochas, and other drinks to your menu, you’ll also need a milk steamer or frother. To make espresso, you’ll need to grind your beans and tamper the grounds into the portafilter. You can have all of the coffee maker bells and whistles, but they won’t do your cup of joe good if you don’t use them. That’s why it’s good to know some of the basics when it comes to the types of espresso machines and their features and benefits. Of course, the best home espresso and coffee makers can vary as much as your local cafe’s drink menu - so whether you’re looking to pull the perfect double shot or want to whip up a homemade latte, you’ll want to invest in a machine that’s just right for your needs. The best home espresso machines offer much more than a basic brew, which is why they appeal to both newbies and budding baristas looking to take their caffeine devotion to the next level. You don’t have to be a java snob to enjoy the morning ritual of making coffee. Products featured are independently selected by our editorial team and we may earn a commission from purchases made from our links the retailer may also receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.