The Ultimate Coffee Maker Guide

Phase 2 discusses the different types of Espresso Machine available to you, if you decided you want to buy a non-espresso Coffee Maker, then please head on to phase 3, where we look at the different types of (non-espresso) Coffee Maker.

There are many different types of espresso machine, so right now you are probably getting a bit concerned that you will never be able to find the one that will suit your needs. Have no fear, this section will tell you everything you need to know about choosing an espresso machine.

There are two main types of espresso machine, the pump operated machine, and the pressure machine.  Pressure machines are generally cheaper and used domestically, the water is boiled in a chamber and then the pressure of the steam forces the water through the coffee in order to make your espresso.

The main disadvantage with this system is that the water is extremely hot (boiling point) which is generally considered to be too hot to make a good, authentic, espresso.

Another disadvantage is that you have to wait a few minutes for the machine to lower in temperature so that you can refill the machine.

On the other hand, pump machines have a completely separate tank for refilling at any time. The boiler also heats the water to 85-90 degrees, which is generally considered to be the ideal temperature for espresso. In lever-operated machines, the water is forced through the coffee manually, but an electric pump is now the method of choice for most people. The pressure inside the pump is also an important factor, 8-10 bar is enough for a good espresso; however for cappuccino 15 bar is a better pressure. These machines are also used by the Italian baristas and so produced a perfect, barista-quality espresso.

There are some “super automatic” espresso machines on the market; these are “bean to cup” machines that can produce a great cup of espresso with the flick of a switch or the touch of a button.

Here is a list of things to consider when choosing your espresso machine:

Cleaning and Maintenance: This can be a problem for anybody with a busy lifestyle, and espresso machines can often require regular cleaning to make them last longer, if you struggle to find time for regular cleaning, we recommend you buy a machine with a self-cleaning feature.

Control:  If you are particularly fussy about your coffee, then some of the cheaper espresso machines may not be for you, since they do not offer the multitude of controls that the more expensive machines do.

Types of Coffee: If you enjoy cappuccino, it is important to find a machine with a froth attachment so that you can enjoy the authentic cappuccino taste. The same applies for numerous different types of coffee; make sure that the machine you want fits the coffee you want.

The User: If you have the time and patience to carefully analyze and become an expert in your new espresso machine, then feel free to buy a machine which will be slightly more complex than the average, however if you need a quick fix and you’re not interested in changing settings constantly, a simpler machine might be the one for you!

Recommended Espresso Makers!

 

You can also search amazon for more espresso makers below.

This concludes phase 2. If you are happy with the coffee maker you have chosen then please head on to phase 4, where you will be able to choose a grinder to go with your coffee maker! If you are having doubts about buying an espresso machine, you can always head on to phase 3 and look at the different types of drip/filter coffee makers.

 

Phase 3: The different types of Drip/Filter coffee makers on the market.

 

Phase 4: The grinder, an integral part in the brewing process.