5 Things To Consider When Buying An Espresso Machine

All of us fancy coffee, don’t we? When you wake up in the morning, the rush of caffeine to the brain will make you feel totally fresh. But some people need an extra stimulus, something stronger than regular coffee, which is the reason why they ask for espresso. This concentrated coffee is their drug of choice. Yet it can get exorbitant, the substitute is to buy your own espresso machine. But what constitutes a good espresso machine? Here is an espresso machine buying guide for you to aid you making an informed final decision.

1. Price

Espresso machines differ in prices, ranging from very low to fairly high. Now and then the higher cost equals the corresponding durability and quality of materials. Other times, you’re buying extra features on your espresso machine, such as frothing wands and water filters. Furthermore, you may be paying for your espresso to taste like made by hand.

The most expensive models are usually a blend of the beneficial specialties. The old adage says, you get what you pay for. You have to be extremely particular about your coffee out of the ordinary ones. If you look for the best-tasting, you probably fit in a higher-end model. If you hunt for the most added features, again, you want to spend more money. If, however, you just want the frothy goodness of a shot of espresso and don’t need any fancy bonuses, then something less costly is for you.

2. Type

There are multifarious sorts of espresso machines and their ease of use is what sets them apart from each other. To illustrate, the manual espresso maker, the semi-automatic espresso maker, the fully automatic espresso maker, and the super automatic espresso maker. The manual espresso makers are controlled by you. If done correctly and properly, they can produce an amazing shot of espresso; but they are easy to screw up. The semi-automatic espresso maker gives you some control, but is easier to use, which is controlled by an electric pump. The fully automated espresso makers take control of the entire process. They have an electric pump and also control the amount of water that pours in. The super automated espresso makers are the easiest to use and control everything with a mere push of a button.

3. Design

While confronted with a hard choice as to the design of espresso machine, you have to consider what you would like on it. Do you want just a basic machine or would you like some extra features? Some designs have built-in coffee grinders, water filters, cup warmers, programmable settings, or frothing wands. Having a built-in coffee grinder can be very convenient since the closer to your drink when you grind your coffee, the better taste you will enjoy.

The purity of your water will change your coffee’s flavor. A water filter can filter out any impurities your water may have to ensure a clean-tasting cup. A warmer cup will keep the warmth of your coffee from leaking out. Programmable settings can make life easier by always reminding you of how you like your espresso made. A lot of espresso machines have frothing wands, but if you like cappuccinos and other frothed-milk drinks, you have to make sure you get this feature.

And since these machines can become pretty big, you want to take size into consideration. The additional features mentioned will make the machine bigger. Also, a lot of the bigger models have the option of making two shots instead of one. So you have to decide whether you want a smaller machine with fewer features or a larger one with more.

4. Materials

Make sure your espresso machine is durable. You’d better read reviews on how people’s machines have stood the tests of time, which will give you an idea of which brands will last. Also, make sure you get a machine made of metal as it will last longer and retain heat better. Compared with automated machines with electrical parts, manual machines will likely need fewer repairs.

5. Bar Pressure

While making espresso, the water pressure is measured in bar units. 9 bar is the perfect bar pressure. However, plenty of commercial espresso machines list much higher numbers which will probably destroy the taste of your espresso. Ideally, 9 Bar is what you want, but between 8 and 10 is acceptable.

If you’re a fan of espresso and drink it multiple times a day, consider buying your own espresso machine and thus save money. Be sure to weigh in price, as this will determine everything about your machine, from durability to features. Then determine what type of espresso machine is appropriate for you. Do not forget that you have four to choose from, ranging from difficult to super easy to use. Next, be careful about the design. What extras do you need on your machine? Get one made from metal as it will last longest and retain heat best. Finally, get one that produces as close to 9 Bar Units of pressure as possible. If you keep in mind all the factors mentioned in this espresso machine buying guide, you’ll find the suitable product soon.