Buying an espresso maker?

There are few appliances that people really talk about in conversation. Coffee machines and espresso makers are those appliances. If you are in the market for a new espresso machine, get ready for a few options so you can decide what it is best suits your needs.

When it comes to buying a domestic espresso maker, there are a number of key points you may want to take into consideration, namely the frequency of use, whether you want to make different types of drinks (so the quality of the milk frother comes into consideration) and how automatic you need the machine to be.

Selecting an Espresso Machine

Ease and controllability are two areas you need to consider when you are deciding which type of espresso machine best suits your style.

• Manual espresso machines: For espresso purists, a manual espresso machine is the way to go. Using a manual espresso machine requires some skill, but some people love the preparation process. 
• Semiautomatic espresso machines: The popular semi-automatic espresso machine is easy to use, but it still allows for control over the finished product. You can adjust temperature, brewing pressure, and tamp. These can include automatic bean grinders.   
• Automatic espresso machines: Even easier to use than semiautomatics, fully automatic espresso machines will brew up espresso with just one touch of a button. They are often found in cafes and restaurants.     
• Super-automatic espresso machines: Choose a super-automatic espresso machine if you need an ultra-quick hit of caffeine. These machines hurry the process, from grinding to tamping to pre-infusing to brewing.

What to look for in a domestic machine:

A pump or pump thermoblock machine that operates at high pressure is essential for making good Italian-style coffee with good crema — the creamy, shiny froth on top that indicates the espresso is properly extracted. A domestic coffee machine should have no less than 15 bars of pressure to make a good cup of coffee.

The water tank on your espresso machine should be easy to remove and fill and the water level easy to check. Stainless steel looks good when new, but generally takes more effort to keep looking shiny, so is not necessarily the best option.

A removable drip tray makes cleaning easier and an adjustable steam delivery makes milk frothing easier. The steam nozzle should have sufficient space around it so you can easily manoeuvre a jug under it. The more bars of pressure a machine has, the easier it will be to froth the mil effectively.

How much should you pay for your coffee machine?

This question is like the age old “how long is a piece of string?” Generally what you get is what you pay for, but you don’t have to pay a small fortune for a decent domestic espresso machine.

Some of the more popular and best brands and machines include:

• DELONGHI Magnifica Rapid Cappuccino EAM3400-S (RRP: $1499)
• SAECO Incanto S-Class De Luxe or Magic De Luxe (RRP: $1499 or $1099)
• GAGGIA Syncrony Compact Digital (RRP: $1399)
• KENWOOD Auto Elite ES817 (RRP: $799)
• KRUPS Orchestro Type 889 (RRP: $1169)
• SUNBEAM Café Barista EM8800 (RRP: $1000)
• BREVILLE 800 Class Espresso Machine 800ES (RRP: $400)
• BREVILLE Café Roma ESP8B (RRP: $220)