Consumer's Guide to Espresso Machines
5 Types of Espresso Machines
They are Steam Driven, Manual, Semi-Automatic, Automatic, and Super Automatic machines.
Manual Espresso Machines:
A manual espresso machines uses a lever that the operator uses to force the water through the grounds instead of an electric pump.
These were the first type of espresso machines. They are not for the average user as the consistent pulling of the lever takes practice to master. Since the amount of time to extract a shot is crucial, it is not easy to “pull” a perfect shot.
Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines:
Semi automatics are the most common home espresso machines.
They are ideal for the coffee enthusiast who wants to create great espresso and doesn’t mind developing a little skill and cleaning out the portafilter. Basically, a semi automatic machine lets you add the coffee to the portafilter manually, and the pump starts and stops when the user pushes the brew button.
Since the user manually starts and stops the brew cycle, this machine gives you the most control over the quality of your shots.
Automatic Espresso Machines:
If you’re more interested in convenience rather than learning the art of creating espresso then an automatic machine is for you. They have the same components as a semi automatic except they have electronic controls to start and stop the brew cycle at preset levels. Most can be programmed to stop short for a ristretto or long for a lungo.
Super Automatic Espresso Machines:
If money is no object, and you just want decent espresso without learning a skill, then look no further. Jura Capresso is the company to go with since they make the best super automatic machines suitable for home or low volume business use.Super automatics have the grinder built-in. All you have to do is add the whole beans and let the machine do the rest: grind the beans, tamp the grounds, brew and clean after each use.