How to Choose a Cheap Espresso Machine
Espresso requires water at the proper temperature and pressure to get the flavor from ground coffee. But a quality espresso machine that includes these features can be expensive, with some models costing upwards of $5,000.
It is, however, possible to enjoy espresso on a budget. Here are some suggestions for choosing the best cheap coffee maker.
Cost
If you're looking to try their hand at making espresso, a quality espresso machine isn't cheap. Depending on the kind of machine you choose you can expect to spend up to $4,000. This includes the manual coffee grinder, an espresso maker and coffee beans. The capsule or pod machines are the most affordable, while semi-automatic and automatic espresso makers can cost between $150-$500.
It is essential to conduct some research prior to choosing the ideal espresso maker. If you're a novice, opt for a manual espresso maker with an easy-to-use dial and steam wand. You can experiment with the settings and see how they affect the taste. If you're a more experienced espresso drinker, a dual boiler model will give you the flexibility to prepare both espresso and steamed milk in one go. However, this type of machine will typically be more expensive than single boiler models.
When it comes to cost, you should consider how often you will make use of the espresso maker and the type of drinks you will be making. If you intend to make cappuccinos or lattes every day, it might be worthwhile to invest in an automatic steamer that can heat the water to a suitable temperature and then do the work for yourself. If you only consume espresso once a week or less then a manual machine could be the better option to cut down on time.
While it used to take some serious skill and perseverance to produce cafe-quality espresso at home, latest machines have made it a more accessible hobby for all but the most seasoned of espresso drinkers. The Coffee Gator Stilosa, for example, offers impressive quality and consistency for less than $500. It's one of our top espresso machines for budgets.
It's not equipped with the advanced features of our more expensive espresso machines like an electronic PID control to regulate the temperature of the water and a top-quality steam wand, but it's an excellent entry-level machine. The Espresso Gator also heats up quickly, so you can be drinking your coffee in less than 10 minutes.
Capacity
If you're looking to make quality espresso at home, it's important to choose a machine with a strong pump and steam wand. It should also have a large reservoir for water and a removable water tank. These features will allow you to reduce time and effort making your favorite cup of coffee. Moreover, you should also consider how often you'll use the machine. For instance, if you just need a quick shot of espresso once or twice a week, a portable model might be enough. On the other hand, if you're planning to use the machine for events and other gatherings, a larger model may be more appropriate.
A high-quality espresso machine should create a steady stream of hot water that can steam milk and create a smooth, creamy foam. It should also have a built-in thermometer that can ensure that the water is at the right temperature to brew. This is crucial, particularly when making cappuccinos and lattes which require hot water.
A few cheap espresso machines have a high pressure level however, that's not always an ideal thing. A high pressure can cause over-extraction and a bitter taste in the espresso. This is why most espresso machines are rated at 9 bar of pressure, not higher.
The most affordable espresso machines are those that provide high levels of consistency, control and durability. These are crucial in a cafe setting where baristas make hundreds of drinks per day. Most cheap machines will not be as stable or reliable as the more expensive models. However, they will be used for a long period of time if maintained correctly.
For those who prefer the classic, manual style of making espresso, a manual espresso maker can be a good option. For example the Wacaco Picopresso is small, hand-powered device which uses a piston generate the high levels pressure needed to make the perfect espresso. Picopresso is available in a variety of sizes from one to 18 inches, and can be used with almost any stovetop including ceramic and induction. It is also ideal for camping and traveling.
Design
A less expensive espresso machine will not come with a lot of bells and whistles but it should still be able to produce decent shots. In most cases the differences between lower-end machines and those that cost more depend on temperature stability (or repeatability) and other convenience features.
Many espresso makers combine heat and pressure to extract espresso from coffee beans. The majority of espresso machines are built to create an ideal pressure of between 8 and 15 bar. Pressure is generated by steaming hot water that fills the boiler. The higher the pressure, the more intense the extraction. A good espresso maker should be able to provide this level of pressure.
Maintainability and ease of use is a different aspect to consider when choosing a budget coffee machine. The design of an espresso machine can affect the ease or difficulty it is to clean and operate. For instance certain machines come with removable parts that can be machine-washed. This makes cleaning much easier than if the whole machine is one piece of equipment.
Certain machines require more effort to clean and operation. Some machines may require manual flushing with hot water in order to remove residue. This is particularly true for older espresso machines. The design of an espresso machine can also impact the ease of fill the reservoir with water and how quickly the machine can be heated up.
A good cheap espresso machine should have a user-friendly interface and enough features to meet the needs of most customers. It should also be easy to maintain and repair. Many budget espresso machines include an instruction manual to assist users in resolving common issues.
In our review, we looked for espresso machines that offer a variety of options and settings. We wanted an espresso machine that could appeal both to those who are experienced Full Review and also new to espresso. We also looked at the price and if it had an integrated grinder.
We have tested a Lelit prosumer model that is now owned by Breville. This machine is also known as a semi professional espresso maker. It's a smaller version of the most well-known commercial espresso machines. The Pro X is powerful and elegant, but it's not as precise as the other models we've tested.
Features
There are lots of doodads, nick knacks and thingsamajigs to take into consideration when shopping for an espresso machine. Deciding which ones are most important can be a difficult task particularly when you're investing hundreds of dollars. To make the process simpler start by imagining how often you'll be using the machine.
In general machines that are frequent use will require to be built with more strength. The reason is that constant brewing can cause mineral buildup which can cause the steam wand and water pump to wear faster than they normally. The majority of espresso machines that are budget-friendly are constructed with lower-quality metal to reduce the chances of problems.
Another aspect to consider is whether you'd prefer an automated or manual machine. The manual machine is more difficult for novices to use. Automated machines come with two boilers that brew and vaporize at the same time. This is ideal for making cappuccinos and lattes. However they can be difficult to operate and could require more maintenance than manual machines.
Manual espresso makers, like the De'Longhi Stilosa are a great option for espresso lovers who are on a tight budget. It includes a pressurized container for coffee ground in advance, as well as an ordinary basket that can be made bottomless. It also comes with an open portafilter that can be removed for easy cleaning. It has a single knob interface that makes it very user-friendly.
It doesn't have the steam gauge. However, if you do not drink enough milk-based beverages to justify the cost of a steamer that is dedicated, then this shouldn't be a big concern. It is also a little noisy, but it is nonetheless less expensive than other models in this class.
The Nespresso Mini Essenza is a good espresso machine at a reasonable price. It's a jack-of-all trades, capable of producing both espresso and non-espresso in sizes that range from 0.84 to 1.35 fluid ounces. It's not the most powerful espresso machine but it's a reliable machine that can last for a long time. It does have a very powerful steam wand, however it could be a problem for some users.