Espresso Coffee Machines – similarities and differences

An espresso is possibly the best known type of coffee-based drink.  It is the underpinning shot that is used to create many of the other types of coffee, such as the latte or the cappuccino.  

The espresso is created by placing an amount of ground coffee beans under pressure, and then drawing boiling water through them. This creates a thick consistency that can be drunk as is, which should be strong with a good creamer.  

A broad range of espresso coffee machines are available on the market, and they can have different functions to each other depending on their usage. Many have different strength settings; have the ability to create multiple drinks at once, and can be used manually or have an automated system so that the espresso is created at the touch of a button. The rule of thumb is the bigger the budget – the better the espresso machine in terms of usage.  

To gain a better understanding of the espresso coffee machines market, and the machines themselves, here’s a quick (but inexhaustive) guide to the basics of the machines:

Manual espresso coffee machines: These espresso machines require the barista to have a good understanding and training of the espresso process, so that they are able to create a high-quality shot of espresso with expertise in a short amount of time. Akin to ‘traditional’ barista machines – the barista will need to measure the filter coffee, tamp and place, then control the water flow and pour, then use the espresso shot to create the type of coffee that the customer is requiring by adding milk and/or froth with any other additives as required.

Semi-automatic espresso machines:  These machines simplify the espresso creation process. As long as the machine is filled with water, coffee beans and any other needed resource, these semi-automatic coffee creators will create your espresso by just the press of a button. Some barista knowledge is still needed though for more complicated drink preparation and machine maintenance.

Fully-automatic espresso machines:  These machines are highly technological and can be used for a great number of coffee products, and the basic espressos are made very easily. The coffee machines rental often are plumbed so that you don’t have to worry about whether the machine has enough water, and many types of coffee can be created by just pressing the relevant button.  

When selecting an espresso machine, it is imperative that you select the machine that best fits your purpose, whether it is an automatic or manual.You will want to look at different designs and sizes to ensure that they will fit comfortably in your workspace, and possibly purchase two smaller espresso machines instead of one large one in case one breaks down. As this is just a very brief overview, it is best that online/supplier research is thoroughly undertaken before you choose the machine that best fits your needs.