Espresso machines – see the selection and learn the differences
Espresso machines – see the selection and learn the differences
Espresso machines have evolved significantly in recent years, and both private and professional users can now choose from a wide range of models with different features and technologies. From fully automatic machines that brew at the touch of a button to manual models for the dedicated barista – the possibilities are many. This article provides an overview of the most important considerations, types, and brands so you can find the espresso machine that best suits your needs.
The article presents a wide selection of espresso machines representing different technologies, price ranges, and areas of use. The aim is to provide an informative overview of features and characteristics so you can more easily assess which type of machine fits your daily routine. The product information is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and summarised to give a clear and neutral picture of the market.
Factors to consider when buying an espresso machine
When choosing an espresso machine, it is important to consider functionality, ease of use, and maintenance. Here are some of the key factors you should take into account.
1. Brewing technology and control
The machine’s brewing technology greatly affects the taste and consistency of the espresso. Manual machines give full control over brewing time, pressure, and temperature, while automatic models handle most of it themselves. Consider how much you want to be involved in the brewing process.
2. Milk frother and drink variations
If you prefer cappuccino, latte, or macchiato, a machine with an integrated milk frother is an advantage. Some models have automatic milk containers, while others require manual frothing with a steam wand – this gives more control but requires a bit of practice.
3. Maintenance and cleaning
Espresso machines require regular cleaning to ensure optimal taste and long lifespan. Automatic cleaning programmes and removable brewing units make maintenance easier. Also consider how easy it is to descale the machine, especially if you live in an area with hard water.
4. Size and capacity
The size of the machine and the volume of the water tank play a role, especially if you have limited space or brew many cups daily. A compact model can be ideal for smaller kitchens, while larger machines are better suited for offices or coffee-loving families.
5. Price and features
The price depends on the machine’s technology and materials. Simple models can deliver solid espresso at an affordable price, while premium machines offer advanced features such as precise temperature control, dual boilers, and programmable profiles. Consider which features truly add value for you.
Products in focus
The DeLonghi EC 850.M is a stainless steel espresso machine that combines a professional look with practical features for home use. The machine operates with a maximum pressure of 15 bar, ensuring stable espresso extraction with a rich crema.
It is equipped with De'Longhi's patented automatic cappuccino system, which allows you to prepare cappuccino and latte macchiato at the touch of a button. The milk container can be stored directly in the refrigerator after use, making handling easy and hygienic.
The filter holder has an integrated crema system and can be used with both ground coffee and E.S.E. pods, providing flexibility in coffee choice. The machine also has a removable water tank and drip tray, making cleaning easier.
With a power of 1450 watts, a 1-litre water tank, and space for two cups at a time, the EC 850.M is suitable for smaller households that want a combination of quality and convenience in coffee brewing.
- Automatic cappuccinatore: Automatically froths milk for cappuccino and latte macchiato.
- 15 bar pressure: Provides optimal extraction and rich crema.
- Flexible use: Compatible with both ground coffee and E.S.E. pods.
- Removable parts: Water tank and drip tray can be easily removed for cleaning.
- Stainless steel: Durable and elegant design that fits modern kitchens.
Pros and cons
- Automatic milk frother for easy preparation of cappuccino and latte
- Compact stainless steel design
- Option for both ground coffee and pods
- Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning
- Energy-saving standby function
- The 1-litre water tank may require frequent refilling with regular use
- The machine is discontinued and may be difficult to find new
Pros and cons
Pros
- Automatic milk frother for easy preparation of cappuccino and latte
- Compact stainless steel design
- Option for both ground coffee and pods
- Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning
- Energy-saving standby function
Cons
- The 1-litre water tank may require frequent refilling with regular use
- The machine is discontinued and may be difficult to find new
Pros
- Automatic milk frother for easy preparation of cappuccino and latte
- Compact stainless steel design
- Option for both ground coffee and pods
- Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning
- Energy-saving standby function
Cons
- The 1-litre water tank may require frequent refilling with regular use
- The machine is discontinued and may be difficult to find new
Specifications
- Manufacturer: DeLonghi
- Model: EC 850.M
- EAN: 8004399325357
- Product type: Espresso machine
- Water tank volume: 1 L
- Cup volume: 2 cups
- Maximum operating pressure: 15 bar
- Anti-drip function: Yes
- Cappuccino making: Yes
- Product colour: Silver
- Housing material: Stainless steel
- Water gauge: Yes
- Removable water tank: Yes
- Removable drip tray: Yes
- Cord length: 1.2 m
- On/off switch with light: Yes
- Indicator light: Yes
- Removable swing filter: Yes
- Power: 1450 W
- Weight: 7 kg
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 305 x 275 x 320 mm
The Saeco New Royal OTC is a semi-automatic espresso machine that combines classic Italian coffee technology with modern features. It is designed for countertop placement and has a 2.5-litre water tank, making it suitable for both small offices and homes where a lot of coffee is consumed.
The machine uses whole coffee beans and has a built-in stainless steel grinder with eight settings, allowing the user to adjust the grind size to taste. In addition, the coffee strength can be adjusted in seven steps, allowing fine-tuning of the intensity in each cup.
With a selection of programmes, the machine can brew espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, latte macchiato, and hot milk. It also has a hot water system, making it possible to brew tea directly from the machine.
Operation is via a touch panel with a built-in screen, and the machine supports smartphone remote control via Bluetooth. The removable brewing unit makes cleaning and maintenance easy.
With a power of 1400 watts and a compact design in a black finish, the Saeco New Royal OTC combines functionality and style in one machine.
- Built-in stainless steel grinder: Provides freshly ground coffee with eight adjustable settings.
- Adjustable coffee strength: Seven levels for individual adjustment of taste and intensity.
- Multiple drink programmes: Brews espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, and more.
- Touch control with screen: Intuitive operation and easy access to functions.
- Bluetooth connectivity: Supports remote control via smartphone.
- Large water tank: 2.5-litre capacity suitable for frequent use.
Pros and cons
- Many drink programmes and adjustment options
- Built-in grinder with multiple settings
- Option for smartphone control via Bluetooth
- Removable brewing unit for easy cleaning
- Suitable for both coffee and tea
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- The size may seem large for small kitchens
Pros and cons
Pros
- Many drink programmes and adjustment options
- Built-in grinder with multiple settings
- Option for smartphone control via Bluetooth
- Removable brewing unit for easy cleaning
- Suitable for both coffee and tea
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- The size may seem large for small kitchens
Pros
- Many drink programmes and adjustment options
- Built-in grinder with multiple settings
- Option for smartphone control via Bluetooth
- Removable brewing unit for easy cleaning
- Suitable for both coffee and tea
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- The size may seem large for small kitchens
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Saeco
- Model: 9J0080
- EAN: 8016712037458
- Product type: Semi-automatic espresso machine
- Placement: Countertop
- Water tank: 2.5 litres
- Coffee type: Coffee beans
- Grinder: Stainless steel, 8 settings
- Adjustable coffee strength: 7 levels
- Coffee bean container: 600 g
- Ground coffee container: 18 cups
- Number of programmes: 8
- Beverages: Espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, latte macchiato, hot milk, tea
- Control type: Touch
- Built-in screen: Yes
- Smartphone remote control: Yes, via Bluetooth
- Power: 1400 W
- Voltage: 230 V
- Frequency: 50 Hz
- Dimensions (W×D×H): 280 × 460 × 398 mm
- Weight: 10 kg
- Colour: Black
- Quantity per package: 1 pc
The Sage Dual Boiler is an espresso machine designed for users who want full control over the brewing process. It is equipped with two separate stainless steel boilers – one for espresso and one for steam – allowing you to brew coffee and steam milk simultaneously without temperature fluctuations.
The machine uses PID technology for precise temperature regulation, keeping the water within a tolerance of ±1 °C. This ensures stable extraction and a consistent flavour profile from shot to shot.
The programmable low-pressure pre-infusion allows you to adjust both duration and pressure so that the coffee is evenly saturated before full pressure is applied. This contributes to a more balanced extraction and better aroma development.
An LCD display provides an overview of settings and extraction time, while the electronic control makes it easy to adjust parameters such as temperature and shot volume. The machine also has a separate hot water outlet that can be used for tea or americano.
The brushed stainless steel construction and included barista tools – including tamper, milk jug, and dose trimmer – support a professional experience at home.
- Dual boiler system: Allows simultaneous brewing and milk steaming without temperature drop.
- PID temperature control: Keeps water temperature stable for optimal extraction.
- Programmable pre-infusion: Adjustable duration and pressure for consistent brewing.
- LCD display: Clearly shows settings and extraction time.
- Separate hot water outlet: Convenient for tea or americano.
Pros and cons
- Precise temperature control with PID regulation
- Ability to brew and steam simultaneously
- Programmable functions for individual customisation
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Comprehensive accessories included
- Requires time for heating and adjustment before use
- The size may be large for small kitchens
- No integrated grinder, requires a separate coffee grinder
Pros and cons
Pros
- Precise temperature control with PID regulation
- Ability to brew and steam simultaneously
- Programmable functions for individual customisation
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Comprehensive accessories included
Cons
- Requires time for heating and adjustment before use
- The size may be large for small kitchens
- No integrated grinder, requires a separate coffee grinder
Pros
- Precise temperature control with PID regulation
- Ability to brew and steam simultaneously
- Programmable functions for individual customisation
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Comprehensive accessories included
Cons
- Requires time for heating and adjustment before use
- The size may be large for small kitchens
- No integrated grinder, requires a separate coffee grinder
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sage
- Model: 61160114 (SES920BSS4EEU1)
- EAN: 9312432030168
- Product type: Automatic coffee machine with milk frother
- Coffee type compatibility: Ground coffee, coffee beans
- Integrated coffee grinder: Yes
- Beverage types: Espresso, double espresso
- Pressure: 15 bar
- Water tank capacity: 2.5 litres
- Coffee bean container: 280 g
- Boilers: Dual, stainless steel
- Power: 2200 W
- Voltage: 220–240 V / 50–60 Hz
- Auto shut-off: Yes
- Display: LCD
- Colour: Brushed stainless steel
- Dimensions (W × D × H): 37 × 36 × 36 cm
- Included accessories: Tamper, filter holder, water filter, cleaning kit, Razor dose trimmer, stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets for 1 and 2 cups, water hardness test
The Sage Barista Pro SES878BSS is an espresso machine designed to deliver barista-quality coffee at home. It is equipped with an integrated conical grinder with 30 grind settings, ensuring freshly ground coffee for every brew.
The machine features an LCD display that provides clear information about settings and the brewing process, as well as precise digital temperature control for consistent results. The ThermoJet heating system reaches optimal brewing temperature in just three seconds, making it ideal for quick preparation.
With a powerful steam wand, milk can be frothed into creamy microfoam, suitable for cappuccino and latte. The removable 2-litre water tank and 250-gram bean hopper provide practical capacity for daily use.
The brushed stainless steel construction combines durability with a sleek appearance, and the machine comes with a selection of accessories, including filter baskets, water filter, cleaning tools, and milk jug.
- ThermoJet heating system: Reaches brewing temperature in just 3 seconds.
- Integrated grinder: Conical grinder with 30 grind settings for freshly ground coffee.
- LCD display: Provides precise control over brewing and settings.
- Powerful steam wand: Froths milk into silky microfoam.
- Robust design: Made of brushed stainless steel with removable water tank and drip tray.
Pros and cons
- Fast heating with ThermoJet technology
- Integrated grinder with many settings
- Precise temperature control and user-friendly display
- Powerful steam wand for milk frothing
- Solid stainless steel construction
- Requires some practice to achieve optimal brewing
- The size may seem space-consuming in small kitchens
Pros and cons
Pros
- Fast heating with ThermoJet technology
- Integrated grinder with many settings
- Precise temperature control and user-friendly display
- Powerful steam wand for milk frothing
- Solid stainless steel construction
Cons
- Requires some practice to achieve optimal brewing
- The size may seem space-consuming in small kitchens
Pros
- Fast heating with ThermoJet technology
- Integrated grinder with many settings
- Precise temperature control and user-friendly display
- Powerful steam wand for milk frothing
- Solid stainless steel construction
Cons
- Requires some practice to achieve optimal brewing
- The size may seem space-consuming in small kitchens
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sage
- Model: SES878BSS / 61160149
- EAN: 9312432032834
- Product type: Coffee machine with milk frother
- Coffee type compatibility: Ground coffee and coffee beans
- Integrated coffee grinder: Yes, conical grinder with 30 settings
- Water tank capacity: 2 litres
- Coffee bean hopper capacity: 250 g
- Removable water tank: Yes
- Colour: Brushed stainless steel
- Material: Brushed stainless steel
- Display: LCD display
- Power consumption: 1650 W
- Voltage: 220–240 V / 50–60 Hz
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 41 × 35.4 × 40.6 cm
- Weight: 9.08 kg
- Included accessories: Cleaning tools, water filter, single and double wall filter basket, Razor dose trimmer, milk jug (480 ml)
Product descriptions
The DeLonghi EC 850.M is a stainless steel espresso machine that combines a professional look with practical features for home use. The machine operates with a maximum pressure of 15 bar, ensuring stable espresso extraction with a rich crema.
It is equipped with De'Longhi's patented automatic cappuccino system, which allows you to prepare cappuccino and latte macchiato at the touch of a button. The milk container can be stored directly in the refrigerator after use, making handling easy and hygienic.
The filter holder has an integrated crema system and can be used with both ground coffee and E.S.E. pods, providing flexibility in coffee choice. The machine also has a removable water tank and drip tray, making cleaning easier.
With a power of 1450 watts, a 1-litre water tank, and space for two cups at a time, the EC 850.M is suitable for smaller households that want a combination of quality and convenience in coffee brewing.
- Automatic cappuccinatore: Automatically froths milk for cappuccino and latte macchiato.
- 15 bar pressure: Provides optimal extraction and rich crema.
- Flexible use: Compatible with both ground coffee and E.S.E. pods.
- Removable parts: Water tank and drip tray can be easily removed for cleaning.
- Stainless steel: Durable and elegant design that fits modern kitchens.
Pros and cons
- Automatic milk frother for easy preparation of cappuccino and latte
- Compact stainless steel design
- Option for both ground coffee and pods
- Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning
- Energy-saving standby function
- The 1-litre water tank may require frequent refilling with regular use
- The machine is discontinued and may be difficult to find new
Pros and cons
Pros
- Automatic milk frother for easy preparation of cappuccino and latte
- Compact stainless steel design
- Option for both ground coffee and pods
- Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning
- Energy-saving standby function
Cons
- The 1-litre water tank may require frequent refilling with regular use
- The machine is discontinued and may be difficult to find new
Pros
- Automatic milk frother for easy preparation of cappuccino and latte
- Compact stainless steel design
- Option for both ground coffee and pods
- Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning
- Energy-saving standby function
Cons
- The 1-litre water tank may require frequent refilling with regular use
- The machine is discontinued and may be difficult to find new
Specifications
- Manufacturer: DeLonghi
- Model: EC 850.M
- EAN: 8004399325357
- Product type: Espresso machine
- Water tank volume: 1 L
- Cup volume: 2 cups
- Maximum operating pressure: 15 bar
- Anti-drip function: Yes
- Cappuccino making: Yes
- Product colour: Silver
- Housing material: Stainless steel
- Water gauge: Yes
- Removable water tank: Yes
- Removable drip tray: Yes
- Cord length: 1.2 m
- On/off switch with light: Yes
- Indicator light: Yes
- Removable swing filter: Yes
- Power: 1450 W
- Weight: 7 kg
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 305 x 275 x 320 mm
The Saeco New Royal OTC is a semi-automatic espresso machine that combines classic Italian coffee technology with modern features. It is designed for countertop placement and has a 2.5-litre water tank, making it suitable for both small offices and homes where a lot of coffee is consumed.
The machine uses whole coffee beans and has a built-in stainless steel grinder with eight settings, allowing the user to adjust the grind size to taste. In addition, the coffee strength can be adjusted in seven steps, allowing fine-tuning of the intensity in each cup.
With a selection of programmes, the machine can brew espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, latte macchiato, and hot milk. It also has a hot water system, making it possible to brew tea directly from the machine.
Operation is via a touch panel with a built-in screen, and the machine supports smartphone remote control via Bluetooth. The removable brewing unit makes cleaning and maintenance easy.
With a power of 1400 watts and a compact design in a black finish, the Saeco New Royal OTC combines functionality and style in one machine.
- Built-in stainless steel grinder: Provides freshly ground coffee with eight adjustable settings.
- Adjustable coffee strength: Seven levels for individual adjustment of taste and intensity.
- Multiple drink programmes: Brews espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, and more.
- Touch control with screen: Intuitive operation and easy access to functions.
- Bluetooth connectivity: Supports remote control via smartphone.
- Large water tank: 2.5-litre capacity suitable for frequent use.
Pros and cons
- Many drink programmes and adjustment options
- Built-in grinder with multiple settings
- Option for smartphone control via Bluetooth
- Removable brewing unit for easy cleaning
- Suitable for both coffee and tea
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- The size may seem large for small kitchens
Pros and cons
Pros
- Many drink programmes and adjustment options
- Built-in grinder with multiple settings
- Option for smartphone control via Bluetooth
- Removable brewing unit for easy cleaning
- Suitable for both coffee and tea
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- The size may seem large for small kitchens
Pros
- Many drink programmes and adjustment options
- Built-in grinder with multiple settings
- Option for smartphone control via Bluetooth
- Removable brewing unit for easy cleaning
- Suitable for both coffee and tea
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- The size may seem large for small kitchens
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Saeco
- Model: 9J0080
- EAN: 8016712037458
- Product type: Semi-automatic espresso machine
- Placement: Countertop
- Water tank: 2.5 litres
- Coffee type: Coffee beans
- Grinder: Stainless steel, 8 settings
- Adjustable coffee strength: 7 levels
- Coffee bean container: 600 g
- Ground coffee container: 18 cups
- Number of programmes: 8
- Beverages: Espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, latte macchiato, hot milk, tea
- Control type: Touch
- Built-in screen: Yes
- Smartphone remote control: Yes, via Bluetooth
- Power: 1400 W
- Voltage: 230 V
- Frequency: 50 Hz
- Dimensions (W×D×H): 280 × 460 × 398 mm
- Weight: 10 kg
- Colour: Black
- Quantity per package: 1 pc
The Sage Dual Boiler is an espresso machine designed for users who want full control over the brewing process. It is equipped with two separate stainless steel boilers – one for espresso and one for steam – allowing you to brew coffee and steam milk simultaneously without temperature fluctuations.
The machine uses PID technology for precise temperature regulation, keeping the water within a tolerance of ±1 °C. This ensures stable extraction and a consistent flavour profile from shot to shot.
The programmable low-pressure pre-infusion allows you to adjust both duration and pressure so that the coffee is evenly saturated before full pressure is applied. This contributes to a more balanced extraction and better aroma development.
An LCD display provides an overview of settings and extraction time, while the electronic control makes it easy to adjust parameters such as temperature and shot volume. The machine also has a separate hot water outlet that can be used for tea or americano.
The brushed stainless steel construction and included barista tools – including tamper, milk jug, and dose trimmer – support a professional experience at home.
- Dual boiler system: Allows simultaneous brewing and milk steaming without temperature drop.
- PID temperature control: Keeps water temperature stable for optimal extraction.
- Programmable pre-infusion: Adjustable duration and pressure for consistent brewing.
- LCD display: Clearly shows settings and extraction time.
- Separate hot water outlet: Convenient for tea or americano.
Pros and cons
- Precise temperature control with PID regulation
- Ability to brew and steam simultaneously
- Programmable functions for individual customisation
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Comprehensive accessories included
- Requires time for heating and adjustment before use
- The size may be large for small kitchens
- No integrated grinder, requires a separate coffee grinder
Pros and cons
Pros
- Precise temperature control with PID regulation
- Ability to brew and steam simultaneously
- Programmable functions for individual customisation
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Comprehensive accessories included
Cons
- Requires time for heating and adjustment before use
- The size may be large for small kitchens
- No integrated grinder, requires a separate coffee grinder
Pros
- Precise temperature control with PID regulation
- Ability to brew and steam simultaneously
- Programmable functions for individual customisation
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Comprehensive accessories included
Cons
- Requires time for heating and adjustment before use
- The size may be large for small kitchens
- No integrated grinder, requires a separate coffee grinder
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sage
- Model: 61160114 (SES920BSS4EEU1)
- EAN: 9312432030168
- Product type: Automatic coffee machine with milk frother
- Coffee type compatibility: Ground coffee, coffee beans
- Integrated coffee grinder: Yes
- Beverage types: Espresso, double espresso
- Pressure: 15 bar
- Water tank capacity: 2.5 litres
- Coffee bean container: 280 g
- Boilers: Dual, stainless steel
- Power: 2200 W
- Voltage: 220–240 V / 50–60 Hz
- Auto shut-off: Yes
- Display: LCD
- Colour: Brushed stainless steel
- Dimensions (W × D × H): 37 × 36 × 36 cm
- Included accessories: Tamper, filter holder, water filter, cleaning kit, Razor dose trimmer, stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets for 1 and 2 cups, water hardness test
The Sage Barista Pro SES878BSS is an espresso machine designed to deliver barista-quality coffee at home. It is equipped with an integrated conical grinder with 30 grind settings, ensuring freshly ground coffee for every brew.
The machine features an LCD display that provides clear information about settings and the brewing process, as well as precise digital temperature control for consistent results. The ThermoJet heating system reaches optimal brewing temperature in just three seconds, making it ideal for quick preparation.
With a powerful steam wand, milk can be frothed into creamy microfoam, suitable for cappuccino and latte. The removable 2-litre water tank and 250-gram bean hopper provide practical capacity for daily use.
The brushed stainless steel construction combines durability with a sleek appearance, and the machine comes with a selection of accessories, including filter baskets, water filter, cleaning tools, and milk jug.
- ThermoJet heating system: Reaches brewing temperature in just 3 seconds.
- Integrated grinder: Conical grinder with 30 grind settings for freshly ground coffee.
- LCD display: Provides precise control over brewing and settings.
- Powerful steam wand: Froths milk into silky microfoam.
- Robust design: Made of brushed stainless steel with removable water tank and drip tray.
Pros and cons
- Fast heating with ThermoJet technology
- Integrated grinder with many settings
- Precise temperature control and user-friendly display
- Powerful steam wand for milk frothing
- Solid stainless steel construction
- Requires some practice to achieve optimal brewing
- The size may seem space-consuming in small kitchens
Pros and cons
Pros
- Fast heating with ThermoJet technology
- Integrated grinder with many settings
- Precise temperature control and user-friendly display
- Powerful steam wand for milk frothing
- Solid stainless steel construction
Cons
- Requires some practice to achieve optimal brewing
- The size may seem space-consuming in small kitchens
Pros
- Fast heating with ThermoJet technology
- Integrated grinder with many settings
- Precise temperature control and user-friendly display
- Powerful steam wand for milk frothing
- Solid stainless steel construction
Cons
- Requires some practice to achieve optimal brewing
- The size may seem space-consuming in small kitchens
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sage
- Model: SES878BSS / 61160149
- EAN: 9312432032834
- Product type: Coffee machine with milk frother
- Coffee type compatibility: Ground coffee and coffee beans
- Integrated coffee grinder: Yes, conical grinder with 30 settings
- Water tank capacity: 2 litres
- Coffee bean hopper capacity: 250 g
- Removable water tank: Yes
- Colour: Brushed stainless steel
- Material: Brushed stainless steel
- Display: LCD display
- Power consumption: 1650 W
- Voltage: 220–240 V / 50–60 Hz
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 41 × 35.4 × 40.6 cm
- Weight: 9.08 kg
- Included accessories: Cleaning tools, water filter, single and double wall filter basket, Razor dose trimmer, milk jug (480 ml)
Different types of espresso machines
The espresso machine market is broad – from simple capsule machines to professional barista models. Here is an overview of the most common types.
1. Manual espresso machines
Manual machines, also called lever or handle machines, require the user to control pressure and water amount themselves. They appeal to enthusiasts who want full control over the brewing and appreciate the craftsmanship behind a perfect espresso.
2. Semi-automatic machines
These machines combine manual control with automatic functions. You grind and tamp the coffee yourself, but the machine controls the water pressure. This provides a good balance between control and convenience and is popular among both home baristas and small cafés.
3. Fully automatic machines
Fully automatic models handle the entire process – from grinding to brewing and milk frothing – at the touch of a button. They are ideal for busy users who want high quality without spending time on adjustments.
4. Capsule machines
Capsule machines are easy to use and require minimal cleaning. They are suitable for offices and homes where convenience is highly valued. The downside is that the coffee is often more expensive per cup, and the choice of coffee is limited to compatible capsules.
5. Professional machines
These machines are used in cafés, restaurants, and offices with high consumption. They have powerful boilers, precise temperature control, and the ability to brew several cups at once. However, they require more space and maintenance than household models.
Different brands of espresso machines
Several manufacturers have established themselves as leaders in espresso machines, each with their own focus and technological strengths.
De’Longhi
De’Longhi is known for user-friendly machines in both the mid-range and premium segments. The brand offers everything from compact capsule machines to advanced fully automatic models with integrated milk frothers.
Sage
Sage (known as Breville in some countries) focuses on precision and control. The machines appeal to coffee enthusiasts who want to adjust temperature, pressure, and grind size to achieve barista-quality coffee at home.
Jura
Jura specialises in fully automatic machines with a focus on quality and design. Their models are known for intuitive operation, automatic cleaning programmes, and consistent brewing.
Nespresso
Nespresso has made capsule coffee popular with a wide range of machines and coffee types. The brand emphasises ease of use, quick brewing, and a large selection of flavour varieties.
Gaggia
Gaggia has roots in Italian coffee culture and produces both manual and semi-automatic machines. The brand is popular among those who want authentic espresso and classic design.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an espresso machine and a coffee machine?
An espresso machine brews under high pressure, producing a concentrated and aromatic coffee with crema. A regular coffee machine brews at lower pressure and produces a milder drink with greater volume.
How much pressure should an espresso machine have?
Most machines operate at around 9 bar, which is considered optimal for espresso. Some models can adjust the pressure to tailor the taste, but higher pressure does not necessarily mean better coffee.
Should you use freshly ground coffee?
Yes, freshly ground coffee provides significantly better taste and aroma. If you choose a machine without a built-in grinder, a separate coffee grinder can be a good investment.
How do you maintain an espresso machine?
Clean the brewing unit regularly, rinse the milk frother after use, and descale the machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Regular maintenance extends the machine’s lifespan and ensures better taste.
Can an espresso machine make regular coffee?
Some models have programmes for lungo or americano, which resemble filter coffee. Alternatively, you can dilute the espresso with hot water to get a milder cup.
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