How to Choose a Good Espresso Maker

In contrast to super-automatic machines, that do everything for you, manual espresso makers require you to grind the beans, tamp them, and pull each shot at the touch of the button. Some models also come with a milk frother that allows you to make espresso and foamed milk simultaneously.

You should choose the one with between nine and 15 bars of pressure. This is the best pressure for a great shot. Some machines are equipped with automatic pressure regulation. This is an excellent feature for those who are just starting out.

Simple to Use

A decent machine should have an intuitive interface, according to Nicole Papantoniou, the director of Good Housekeeping's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab. "If best home espresso machine 're a person who likes to experiment with settings, you might prefer a more flexible machine," she says. "But if you just want to master the basics it shouldn't take much time to learn how to use the machine."

The majority of espresso machines are in three categories: semi-automatic, automated and super-automatic. Automatics with the push button to brew allow you to select your desired coffee size. Some are also programmable, which can aid in the creation of a perfect recipe. These kinds of machines tend to be the top performers in our lab tests.

Semi-automatics, that have levers that you pull to initiate and stop the brew cycle allow you to grind and tamp your own beans; they also have an integrated grinder for grinding and tamping. They're less expensive than fully automated models and can produce several small espressos or coffee drinks at once. Some come with steam wands for heating and frothing milk, which is handy for cappuccinos and lattes. These machines typically have a slight learning curve and may require a little manual effort, but they generally offer more consistency than an automated model.

To make a shot you need to place the beans in a portafilter which locks into the grouphead (a handle-attached piece that is located at the front of the machine). Then, you grind the grounds to ensure that they're evenly distributed. This will create a delicious and flavorful cup. Some models also have an extra portafilter that is designed to help the grounds to settle into an even layer. Other models feature a double-walled filter to provide a greater extraction.

A steam-driven machine heats water for steaming and brewing at same time, which may result in over-extraction. A pump-driven machine that uses an electric motor to push water through the grounds, is able to avoid this issue because it produces lower temperatures. The result is an equilibrating, sweet and smooth espresso that is smooth, sweet and balanced.

Ease of Cleaning

To make the best coffee, you need a clean espresso machine. Coffee oils can stick to metal surfaces, and over time become rancid, giving your coffee bitter, musty taste. They can also block water lines, resulting in costly repairs and replacements. Keep your espresso machine free of dirt to avoid these issues, prolong its life, and enhance the flavor and quality of each cup you make.

To keep your machine in top condition, we suggest cleaning the brewing chamber and any other parts that can be removed from the machine with cleaners designed specifically for espresso machines. We recommend using water that has been filtered to minimize the accumulation of mineral deposits in your espresso machine. Regular backflushing using Urnex Cafiza Tablets is also recommended, especially for machines with the group head.

Cleaning your espresso machine can be a quick and simple process. Clean the drip tray and steam wand following each use with a designated damp cloth that is only intended for this purpose (change it regularly throughout the day, and then sanitize the pan with a sanitizing agent).

We also recommend cleaning/wiping the portafilter and group head with a toothbrush daily, and backflushing it at least once a week or as directed by your manufacturer. Backflushing involves removing the portafilter and putting a blind filter in its place, followed by a cycle of dispensing cleaning and water until it runs clear. Some machines come with built-in backflushing programs; for others, you will have to remove the portafilter and fill it with an aqueous solution of water and cleaning chemicals.

The quality of your espresso maker depends on the cleaning solution you choose. You should look for a formula that is powerful enough to dissolve and penetrate the coffee oils, grimes, calcium and limescale. Be sure to consider compatibility with the brand of your espresso machine and also the ability to rinse without damaging residue.

These simple tasks will improve your experience with espresso and extend the longevity of your machine. Implementing routine cleaning and maintenance using a descaling solution every few months will mitigate damage caused by mineral deposits and keeping the brew chamber, tamper portafilter, brew chamber and shower screen free of coffee residues will ensure you will always enjoy consistent, delicious espresso.

Ease of Maintenance

As espresso machines become more accessible to the public, regular cleaning and maintenance is a must. This will stop the build-up of minerals that could damage and interfere with the performance of your machine. It also extends the life of the machine and keeps it from needing costly repairs or replacement parts. Proper maintenance can also improve the quality and taste of the espresso that is produced by the machine.

It's essential to know the procedure for maintenance for each model, whether you're buying an espresso machine to use at home or in coffee shops. In general, all models require cleaning on a weekly basis and a complete descale every two to four weeks. Cleaning involves wiping the brew group and steam wand using a soft cloth or brush to get rid of any dust. Also, it's an ideal idea to backflush the machine every week to remove any residue from previous coffee brews.

In addition to cleaning, some models require lubrication in order to function correctly. To ensure that it works properly and reduce wear, you should lubricate a brew group with silicone oil. In some models, it is also necessary to replace the filter. If the filter is in need of replacement, it is recommended to do it every month.

A basic fully automatic machine is more difficult to maintain than a premium or professional model. It is necessary to clean and descale the brew group, and the water tank on a weekly basis. The milk system needs to be cleaned on a regular basis. Also, you'll need to clean the machine with a specific cleaner and backflush it every week.

You won't need to clean your brew groups or steam wand as often when you use a professional or premium espresso machine. These models also come with a smart filter which eliminates the need for descal. This saves time and effort. There is a need to clean the machine, though, to remove any oil rests from the machine's pipes. If you're buying a coffee maker for your home or commercial establishment, it is important to create a maintenance plan to prevent costly repairs or replacement parts.

Easy of Service

Making espresso can be a difficult process. From the weighing of coffee beans and grinding them properly to tamping it with enough pressure, everything is important. Anything that makes the process simpler and more reliable will be a big plus. This could be a fast warming time and the ability to set a specific brew time, or an easy-to-control steam wand for texturing milk.

If you're just starting out or just want to streamline the process, you should consider purchasing an automated machine that will do everything for you. It's as simple as pressing a button and then wait. These machines are especially appealing to new baristas as they make you feel like a professional without the need for a lot of skill.


There are several different kinds of espresso machines, but the type you choose is based on your preferences and the amount of work you want to do. Manual espresso machines require you to perform all the work, however they tend to be smaller and less portable. You can also regulate the temperature more effectively, since you are controlling each stage of the brewing process.

The other main kind of espresso machine is semi-automatic. These machines are larger and more automatic than manuals, but not as elegant as super-automatics. It is possible to make a number of drinks at once with these machines, and they usually come with grinders and tampers built-in.

Check how many types of espresso it can produce simultaneously when searching for an Espresso machine. Examine the brew capabilities and whether or not it comes with a coffee grinder. Look for features that will allow you to make milk-based beverages, for example the ability to remove a hopper or frothing arm.

Last but not least, check the filtration system of the machine and how it's installed. It's crucial to use an appropriate water filter to handle the hardness of your water. It is possible that you will need to clean your portafilter more frequently and flush the system more often if you don't. A high-quality filter will allow you to get amazing photos, and a device equipped with an AquaClean filter for water hardness can reduce limescale.