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How to Buy an Espresso Machine for at Home Use

Jul 27

When it comes to coffee, we all have our preferred brands. Depending on the type of coffee you prefer, you might go for a particular brand or blend. In fact, there are so many different varieties that it’s become almost impossible to keep track of them all. That’s why so many people are turning to home espresso machines to help them get their fix without leaving the comfort of their own homes. Ever heard of Nespresso? It’s one of the most well-known and trusted maker of home espresso machines. Not only do they make some of the best machines available today but they also have a wide variety to suit just about anyone’s taste. With an Espresso machine, you can make delicious espressos in your very own home. All you need is a little bit of knowledge and access to simple supplies, which we will take you through in this article.

What is an espresso machine?

An espresso machine is any device that creates a shot of espresso coffee. There are two types: - Hand-pump espresso machines include manual pumps to create the shot. - Super automatic machines are fully automated, meaning you don’t need to use a pump to create your espresso.

Choose your espresso machine model and buy accordingly

Before buying your espresso machine, you should first consider what type of espresso machine it is. We can categorize home espresso machines by a few criteria, but most important ones are the pressure type, and automatization level. 

Based on the pressure type we have:

  1. Pump driven espresso machine
  2. Steam-based espresso machine

Based on the automatization level we can have:

  1. Super-automatic espresso machine
  2. Semi-automatic espresso machine
  3. Manual espresso machines
  4. Pod espresso machines

Each one has different pros and cons and will require a slightly different approach when choosing the best model for your needs. For a caffe espresso experience, you will choose pump espresso machines, since they can create 9bars of pressure that are needed for the modern espresso taste. The steam espresso machines are inexpensive, and they can brew a larger coffee cup than pump espresso machine, but the flavors are different.

The automatic espresso machine is the most convenient, because it will take the pressure of nailing the perfect brew variables. The barista only needs to press a button and brew. The occasional water tank and bean hopper refill is still needed. 

The semiautomatic machine has the advantage of being more reliable, with less moving parts and simpler design. The biggest advantage is that it gives the home barista more control over the brewing process, allowing them to aim for coffee perfection. 

The manual espresso machine is entirely operated by the barista, there is no pump, and the pressure is generated by the barista's arm. The pressure can be modified on the spot by handling the machine's lever. The manual espresso machines give the barista the most control over the extraction. However, they are the hardest to control, and it takes dozens of failed shots during the training. For this reason, manual espresso machines are more of a hobby than anything else.

The pod espresso machine is all about convenience. Pop in a pod, press a button and you have your coffee. They are less expensive than super-automatics, at least 3 times cheaper, so the initial budget won't make a big dent. 

Keep in mind when buying an espresso machine for at home use

First things first, you need to know what kind of espresso machine you want. You can find a number of different types and brands of home espresso machines to choose from.

Capsule based machines are the most convenient, and with the lowest initial investment. However, the price of capsules will eventually make up for the low machine cost.

Semi-automatic espresso machines are not too expensive, in fact, some of them are cheap. However, you need to consider the cost of a decent coffee grinder, which is a must, and an espresso tamper which is almost a most. 

Super automatic machines, also known as grind and brew espresso machines, can get you a decent espresso cup. But if you need to tweak your espresso, only the more expensive machines can give you complete control over the brewing process.

Stay away from manual espresso machines, they are only for coffee geeks.

There’s also the chance that you are passionate about espresso, and you want to turn this into a hobby. You might be interested then, in investing in a coffee roaster. In this case, you would probably want to look at specialty roasting companies and coffee shops because they know what they're doing when it comes to roasting coffee and coffee beans at home.

Don't forget to budget for a good coffee grinder and a decent tamper. If you are getting a semi-auto, or a manual, you will need these. 

The Best Espresso Machine Brands

Nespresso is one of the best espresso machines brands. It makes a wide variety of models in different price ranges to suit everyone’s needs and budget. Nespresso offers high-quality machines that are also easy to use, giving you a great experience right out of the box.

Another top choice for espresso machines is DeLonghi. DeLonghi has been making espresso machines since 1925 so it’s no surprise that their quality is unmatched. With a diverse line of products, including both professional and home espresso machines, there’s something for everyone and their budget.

Breville is another company that caters to the home barista. Their machines are renown worldwide and they are very reliable. 

You can also look at Jura, Philips, Capresso, and Miele for a wider selection pool. 

Buying guide: Where to Buy an Espresso Machine for Home Use?

When you’re looking to buy an espresso machine, you have a few different options. You can start with purchasing your machine from a retail store like Best Buy or Target.

These stores carry a wide range of espresso machines that are made by various brands. You might want to consider this option if you’re on a budget and just want something to get started with.

Another option is buying your machine online from sites like Amazon or DirectBuy.

These are all great places for those who are looking for quality items without going over budget. But you should consider specialized stores as well, as they carry more varied inventory, and they have specialized personnel that can help you with your decision. A couple of suggestions are Prima Coffee, and Whole Latte Love

No matter which way you go about getting your espresso machine, as long as it meets the quality and safety standards set forth by the manufacturer, it will work out just fine in your home!

 This article was firstly posted at Foodie News Journal.