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ESPRESSO MACHINE TYPES
There are a daunting number of options to face when choosing to buy a home espresso machine. With research and patience, however, wading through the sea of options becomes less overwhelming and even a little bit fun.
Steam powered “espresso machines” are a bit of a misnomer, as espresso requires 9 bar of pressure that steam is incapable of producing. Luigi Bezzara patented the first steam-powered machine in 1901, and little advancement has been made since. Most department store token offerings are of the steam-driven variety.
Piston-lever espresso machines debuted in 1947 with Gaggia’s industry revolutionizing Crema Caffe Machine, considered by many to be the first modern espresso machine. The manually operated lever is capable of producing the pressure required to extract quality espresso, and the technology of the setup has changed little since its inception until now. Lever machines are capable of producing excellent espresso, but the learning curve is very high (especially for espresso newcomers). Recommended for patient espresso lovers who appreciate a fully hands-on experience, La Pavoni offers several models retailing from $600 to $1000.
Semi-Automatic espresso machines replaced the lever machines because of their relative ease of use. They’re powered by electric pumps that regulate previously inconsistent pressure produced by the lever machines. A switch controlled by the user engages and disengages the electric pump, affording the user control over the amount of water run through the coffee grinds. Home machines typically have one boiler to heat water for extraction and milk steaming, but some have a second reservoir for the latter that must be filled manually. The ease of use appeals to many and, with an average learning curve, does not take too long to master. Expect to spend anywhere from $300 to $1500 on a home semi-automatic espresso machine.
Fully-Automatic espresso machines are virtually the same as their semi-automatic cousins except that they are equipped with built-in timing mechanisms. Users can preset amounts of time for extraction depending on the type of drink they’re making. Often, fully automatics have the ability to function as semi-automatics. It’s important to note that these machines are not capable of higher quality than semi-automatics, and only provide a more forgiving learning curve once the presets have been installed. The price range increases slightly over the semi-automatic models.
Super-Automatic espresso machines perform all of the requirements to prepare espresso and even milk-based espresso drinks in very short periods of time. They are built with water reservoirs, integrated coffee grinders, dosers, tampers, and an internal disposal box for used grinds. More expensive models even include self-cleaning systems and automatic milk frothers that add steamed milk and foam directly into your drink. Ease of use is obviously excellent with a very low learning curve, making these machines preferable to consumers who want a decent coffee without the hassles and mess of preparation. Basic models cost about $450 (Saeco Vienna) and high-end home machines can cost as much as $3600 (Jura Capresso Impressa Z6). Expect to spend anywhere from $1000 to $1800 for a capable model.
