Espresso machines – how to preserve the taste and quality
Espresso machines – how to preserve the taste and quality
A good cup of espresso is not just about the beans – it’s also about the machine that brews them. An espresso machine can elevate your coffee experience from a daily routine to barista quality, but it requires choosing the right model and taking good care of it. Whether you’re new to the world of espresso or already have experience, it pays to know the difference between machine types, features, and maintenance.
In this article, you’ll get an overview of what to consider when choosing an espresso machine and how to ensure that the taste and quality are preserved – cup after cup.
The article presents a wide range of espresso machines in different price ranges and with varying features. The aim is to provide an overview of the options available on the market so you can choose the type of machine that best suits your needs and budget. The product information is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to provide a clear and neutral overview.
Factors to consider when buying an espresso machine
When you invest in an espresso machine, it’s not just about design and price. There are several factors that affect taste, ease of use, and maintenance.
1. Brewing pressure and temperature control
A stable brewing pressure of around 9 bar and precise temperature control are crucial for proper extraction. Machines with PID control keep the temperature constant, resulting in a more consistent flavour and aroma.
2. Grinder and coffee preparation
Some machines have a built-in grinder, while others require a separate one. Freshly ground coffee provides significantly better flavour, so consider whether you want an all-in-one solution or prefer to adjust the grinder separately for more control.
3. Milk frother
If you love cappuccino or latte, an efficient milk frother is a must. There are both manual steam wands and automatic systems that can adjust the froth to your taste. Manual solutions require a bit of practice but offer greater freedom.
4. Ease of use and cleaning
Automatic machines make it easy to brew espresso at the touch of a button, while semi-automatic ones require a bit more skill. Consider how much time you want to spend on cleaning – some models have automatic cleaning programmes, while others require manual descaling and cleaning of the brewing unit.
5. Price and durability
The price often reflects build quality and features. A more expensive machine can be an investment in durability and better materials, but there are also affordable models that deliver solid quality for everyday use.
Products in focus
The DeLonghi EC 850.M is a stainless steel espresso machine that combines a professional look with practical features for home use. The machine operates with a maximum pressure of 15 bar, ensuring stable espresso extraction with a rich crema.
It is equipped with De'Longhi's patented automatic cappuccino system, which allows you to prepare cappuccino and latte macchiato at the touch of a button. The milk container can be stored directly in the refrigerator after use, making handling easy and hygienic.
The filter holder has an integrated crema system and can be used with both ground coffee and E.S.E. pods, providing flexibility in coffee choice. The machine also has a removable water tank and drip tray, making cleaning easier.
With a power of 1450 watts, a 1-litre water tank, and space for two cups at a time, the EC 850.M is suitable for smaller households that want a combination of quality and convenience in coffee brewing.
- Automatic cappuccinatore: Automatically froths milk for cappuccino and latte macchiato.
- 15 bar pressure: Provides optimal extraction and rich crema.
- Flexible use: Compatible with both ground coffee and E.S.E. pods.
- Removable parts: Water tank and drip tray can be easily removed for cleaning.
- Stainless steel: Durable and elegant design that fits modern kitchens.
Pros and cons
- Automatic milk frother for easy preparation of cappuccino and latte
- Compact stainless steel design
- Option for both ground coffee and pods
- Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning
- Energy-saving standby function
- The 1-litre water tank may require frequent refilling with regular use
- The machine is discontinued and may be difficult to find new
Pros and cons
Pros
- Automatic milk frother for easy preparation of cappuccino and latte
- Compact stainless steel design
- Option for both ground coffee and pods
- Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning
- Energy-saving standby function
Cons
- The 1-litre water tank may require frequent refilling with regular use
- The machine is discontinued and may be difficult to find new
Pros
- Automatic milk frother for easy preparation of cappuccino and latte
- Compact stainless steel design
- Option for both ground coffee and pods
- Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning
- Energy-saving standby function
Cons
- The 1-litre water tank may require frequent refilling with regular use
- The machine is discontinued and may be difficult to find new
Specifications
- Manufacturer: DeLonghi
- Model: EC 850.M
- EAN: 8004399325357
- Product type: Espresso machine
- Water tank volume: 1 L
- Cup volume: 2 cups
- Maximum operating pressure: 15 bar
- Anti-drip function: Yes
- Cappuccino making: Yes
- Product colour: Silver
- Housing material: Stainless steel
- Water gauge: Yes
- Removable water tank: Yes
- Removable drip tray: Yes
- Cord length: 1.2 m
- On/off switch with light: Yes
- Indicator light: Yes
- Removable swing filter: Yes
- Power: 1450 W
- Weight: 7 kg
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 305 x 275 x 320 mm
The Saeco New Royal OTC is a semi-automatic espresso machine that combines classic Italian coffee technology with modern features. It is designed for countertop placement and has a 2.5-litre water tank, making it suitable for both small offices and homes where a lot of coffee is consumed.
The machine uses whole coffee beans and has a built-in stainless steel grinder with eight settings, allowing the user to adjust the grind size to taste. In addition, the coffee strength can be adjusted in seven steps, allowing fine-tuning of the intensity in each cup.
With a selection of programmes, the machine can brew espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, latte macchiato, and hot milk. It also has a hot water system, making it possible to brew tea directly from the machine.
Operation is via a touch panel with a built-in screen, and the machine supports smartphone remote control via Bluetooth. The removable brewing unit makes cleaning and maintenance easy.
With a power of 1400 watts and a compact design in a black finish, the Saeco New Royal OTC combines functionality and style in one machine.
- Built-in stainless steel grinder: Provides freshly ground coffee with eight adjustable settings.
- Adjustable coffee strength: Seven levels for individual adjustment of taste and intensity.
- Multiple drink programmes: Brews espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, and more.
- Touch control with screen: Intuitive operation and easy access to functions.
- Bluetooth connectivity: Supports remote control via smartphone.
- Large water tank: 2.5-litre capacity suitable for frequent use.
Pros and cons
- Many drink programmes and adjustment options
- Built-in grinder with multiple settings
- Option for smartphone control via Bluetooth
- Removable brewing unit for easy cleaning
- Suitable for both coffee and tea
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- The size may seem large for small kitchens
Pros and cons
Pros
- Many drink programmes and adjustment options
- Built-in grinder with multiple settings
- Option for smartphone control via Bluetooth
- Removable brewing unit for easy cleaning
- Suitable for both coffee and tea
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- The size may seem large for small kitchens
Pros
- Many drink programmes and adjustment options
- Built-in grinder with multiple settings
- Option for smartphone control via Bluetooth
- Removable brewing unit for easy cleaning
- Suitable for both coffee and tea
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- The size may seem large for small kitchens
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Saeco
- Model: 9J0080
- EAN: 8016712037458
- Product type: Semi-automatic espresso machine
- Placement: Countertop
- Water tank: 2.5 litres
- Coffee type: Coffee beans
- Grinder: Stainless steel, 8 settings
- Adjustable coffee strength: 7 levels
- Coffee bean container: 600 g
- Ground coffee container: 18 cups
- Number of programmes: 8
- Beverages: Espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, latte macchiato, hot milk, tea
- Control type: Touch
- Built-in screen: Yes
- Smartphone remote control: Yes, via Bluetooth
- Power: 1400 W
- Voltage: 230 V
- Frequency: 50 Hz
- Dimensions (W×D×H): 280 × 460 × 398 mm
- Weight: 10 kg
- Colour: Black
- Quantity per package: 1 pc
The Sage Dual Boiler is an espresso machine designed for users who want full control over the brewing process. It is equipped with two separate stainless steel boilers – one for espresso and one for steam – allowing you to brew coffee and steam milk simultaneously without temperature fluctuations.
The machine uses PID technology for precise temperature regulation, keeping the water within a tolerance of ±1 °C. This ensures stable extraction and a consistent flavour profile from shot to shot.
The programmable low-pressure pre-infusion allows you to adjust both duration and pressure so that the coffee is evenly saturated before full pressure is applied. This contributes to a more balanced extraction and better aroma development.
An LCD display provides an overview of settings and extraction time, while the electronic control makes it easy to adjust parameters such as temperature and shot volume. The machine also has a separate hot water outlet that can be used for tea or americano.
The brushed stainless steel construction and included barista tools – including tamper, milk jug, and dose trimmer – support a professional experience at home.
- Dual boiler system: Allows simultaneous brewing and milk steaming without temperature drop.
- PID temperature control: Keeps water temperature stable for optimal extraction.
- Programmable pre-infusion: Adjustable duration and pressure for consistent brewing.
- LCD display: Clearly shows settings and extraction time.
- Separate hot water outlet: Convenient for tea or americano.
Pros and cons
- Precise temperature control with PID regulation
- Ability to brew and steam simultaneously
- Programmable functions for individual customisation
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Comprehensive accessories included
- Requires time for heating and adjustment before use
- The size may be large for small kitchens
- No integrated grinder, requires a separate coffee grinder
Pros and cons
Pros
- Precise temperature control with PID regulation
- Ability to brew and steam simultaneously
- Programmable functions for individual customisation
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Comprehensive accessories included
Cons
- Requires time for heating and adjustment before use
- The size may be large for small kitchens
- No integrated grinder, requires a separate coffee grinder
Pros
- Precise temperature control with PID regulation
- Ability to brew and steam simultaneously
- Programmable functions for individual customisation
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Comprehensive accessories included
Cons
- Requires time for heating and adjustment before use
- The size may be large for small kitchens
- No integrated grinder, requires a separate coffee grinder
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sage
- Model: 61160114 (SES920BSS4EEU1)
- EAN: 9312432030168
- Product type: Automatic coffee machine with milk frother
- Coffee type compatibility: Ground coffee, coffee beans
- Integrated coffee grinder: Yes
- Beverage types: Espresso, double espresso
- Pressure: 15 bar
- Water tank capacity: 2.5 litres
- Coffee bean container: 280 g
- Boilers: Dual, stainless steel
- Power: 2200 W
- Voltage: 220–240 V / 50–60 Hz
- Auto shut-off: Yes
- Display: LCD
- Colour: Brushed stainless steel
- Dimensions (W × D × H): 37 × 36 × 36 cm
- Included accessories: Tamper, filter holder, water filter, cleaning kit, Razor dose trimmer, stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets for 1 and 2 cups, water hardness test
The Sage Barista Pro SES878BSS is an espresso machine designed to deliver barista-quality coffee at home. It is equipped with an integrated conical grinder with 30 grind settings, ensuring freshly ground coffee for every brew.
The machine features an LCD display that provides clear information about settings and the brewing process, as well as precise digital temperature control for consistent results. The ThermoJet heating system reaches optimal brewing temperature in just three seconds, making it ideal for quick preparation.
With a powerful steam wand, milk can be frothed into creamy microfoam, suitable for cappuccino and latte. The removable 2-litre water tank and 250-gram bean hopper provide practical capacity for daily use.
The brushed stainless steel construction combines durability with a sleek appearance, and the machine comes with a selection of accessories, including filter baskets, water filter, cleaning tools, and milk jug.
- ThermoJet heating system: Reaches brewing temperature in just 3 seconds.
- Integrated grinder: Conical grinder with 30 grind settings for freshly ground coffee.
- LCD display: Provides precise control over brewing and settings.
- Powerful steam wand: Froths milk into silky microfoam.
- Robust design: Made of brushed stainless steel with removable water tank and drip tray.
Pros and cons
- Fast heating with ThermoJet technology
- Integrated grinder with many settings
- Precise temperature control and user-friendly display
- Powerful steam wand for milk frothing
- Solid stainless steel construction
- Requires some practice to achieve optimal brewing
- The size may seem space-consuming in small kitchens
Pros and cons
Pros
- Fast heating with ThermoJet technology
- Integrated grinder with many settings
- Precise temperature control and user-friendly display
- Powerful steam wand for milk frothing
- Solid stainless steel construction
Cons
- Requires some practice to achieve optimal brewing
- The size may seem space-consuming in small kitchens
Pros
- Fast heating with ThermoJet technology
- Integrated grinder with many settings
- Precise temperature control and user-friendly display
- Powerful steam wand for milk frothing
- Solid stainless steel construction
Cons
- Requires some practice to achieve optimal brewing
- The size may seem space-consuming in small kitchens
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sage
- Model: SES878BSS / 61160149
- EAN: 9312432032834
- Product type: Coffee machine with milk frother
- Coffee type compatibility: Ground coffee and coffee beans
- Integrated coffee grinder: Yes, conical grinder with 30 settings
- Water tank capacity: 2 litres
- Coffee bean hopper capacity: 250 g
- Removable water tank: Yes
- Colour: Brushed stainless steel
- Material: Brushed stainless steel
- Display: LCD display
- Power consumption: 1650 W
- Voltage: 220–240 V / 50–60 Hz
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 41 × 35.4 × 40.6 cm
- Weight: 9.08 kg
- Included accessories: Cleaning tools, water filter, single and double wall filter basket, Razor dose trimmer, milk jug (480 ml)
Product descriptions
The DeLonghi EC 850.M is a stainless steel espresso machine that combines a professional look with practical features for home use. The machine operates with a maximum pressure of 15 bar, ensuring stable espresso extraction with a rich crema.
It is equipped with De'Longhi's patented automatic cappuccino system, which allows you to prepare cappuccino and latte macchiato at the touch of a button. The milk container can be stored directly in the refrigerator after use, making handling easy and hygienic.
The filter holder has an integrated crema system and can be used with both ground coffee and E.S.E. pods, providing flexibility in coffee choice. The machine also has a removable water tank and drip tray, making cleaning easier.
With a power of 1450 watts, a 1-litre water tank, and space for two cups at a time, the EC 850.M is suitable for smaller households that want a combination of quality and convenience in coffee brewing.
- Automatic cappuccinatore: Automatically froths milk for cappuccino and latte macchiato.
- 15 bar pressure: Provides optimal extraction and rich crema.
- Flexible use: Compatible with both ground coffee and E.S.E. pods.
- Removable parts: Water tank and drip tray can be easily removed for cleaning.
- Stainless steel: Durable and elegant design that fits modern kitchens.
Pros and cons
- Automatic milk frother for easy preparation of cappuccino and latte
- Compact stainless steel design
- Option for both ground coffee and pods
- Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning
- Energy-saving standby function
- The 1-litre water tank may require frequent refilling with regular use
- The machine is discontinued and may be difficult to find new
Pros and cons
Pros
- Automatic milk frother for easy preparation of cappuccino and latte
- Compact stainless steel design
- Option for both ground coffee and pods
- Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning
- Energy-saving standby function
Cons
- The 1-litre water tank may require frequent refilling with regular use
- The machine is discontinued and may be difficult to find new
Pros
- Automatic milk frother for easy preparation of cappuccino and latte
- Compact stainless steel design
- Option for both ground coffee and pods
- Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning
- Energy-saving standby function
Cons
- The 1-litre water tank may require frequent refilling with regular use
- The machine is discontinued and may be difficult to find new
Specifications
- Manufacturer: DeLonghi
- Model: EC 850.M
- EAN: 8004399325357
- Product type: Espresso machine
- Water tank volume: 1 L
- Cup volume: 2 cups
- Maximum operating pressure: 15 bar
- Anti-drip function: Yes
- Cappuccino making: Yes
- Product colour: Silver
- Housing material: Stainless steel
- Water gauge: Yes
- Removable water tank: Yes
- Removable drip tray: Yes
- Cord length: 1.2 m
- On/off switch with light: Yes
- Indicator light: Yes
- Removable swing filter: Yes
- Power: 1450 W
- Weight: 7 kg
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 305 x 275 x 320 mm
The Saeco New Royal OTC is a semi-automatic espresso machine that combines classic Italian coffee technology with modern features. It is designed for countertop placement and has a 2.5-litre water tank, making it suitable for both small offices and homes where a lot of coffee is consumed.
The machine uses whole coffee beans and has a built-in stainless steel grinder with eight settings, allowing the user to adjust the grind size to taste. In addition, the coffee strength can be adjusted in seven steps, allowing fine-tuning of the intensity in each cup.
With a selection of programmes, the machine can brew espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, latte macchiato, and hot milk. It also has a hot water system, making it possible to brew tea directly from the machine.
Operation is via a touch panel with a built-in screen, and the machine supports smartphone remote control via Bluetooth. The removable brewing unit makes cleaning and maintenance easy.
With a power of 1400 watts and a compact design in a black finish, the Saeco New Royal OTC combines functionality and style in one machine.
- Built-in stainless steel grinder: Provides freshly ground coffee with eight adjustable settings.
- Adjustable coffee strength: Seven levels for individual adjustment of taste and intensity.
- Multiple drink programmes: Brews espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, and more.
- Touch control with screen: Intuitive operation and easy access to functions.
- Bluetooth connectivity: Supports remote control via smartphone.
- Large water tank: 2.5-litre capacity suitable for frequent use.
Pros and cons
- Many drink programmes and adjustment options
- Built-in grinder with multiple settings
- Option for smartphone control via Bluetooth
- Removable brewing unit for easy cleaning
- Suitable for both coffee and tea
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- The size may seem large for small kitchens
Pros and cons
Pros
- Many drink programmes and adjustment options
- Built-in grinder with multiple settings
- Option for smartphone control via Bluetooth
- Removable brewing unit for easy cleaning
- Suitable for both coffee and tea
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- The size may seem large for small kitchens
Pros
- Many drink programmes and adjustment options
- Built-in grinder with multiple settings
- Option for smartphone control via Bluetooth
- Removable brewing unit for easy cleaning
- Suitable for both coffee and tea
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning for optimal performance
- The size may seem large for small kitchens
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Saeco
- Model: 9J0080
- EAN: 8016712037458
- Product type: Semi-automatic espresso machine
- Placement: Countertop
- Water tank: 2.5 litres
- Coffee type: Coffee beans
- Grinder: Stainless steel, 8 settings
- Adjustable coffee strength: 7 levels
- Coffee bean container: 600 g
- Ground coffee container: 18 cups
- Number of programmes: 8
- Beverages: Espresso, cappuccino, latte, americano, latte macchiato, hot milk, tea
- Control type: Touch
- Built-in screen: Yes
- Smartphone remote control: Yes, via Bluetooth
- Power: 1400 W
- Voltage: 230 V
- Frequency: 50 Hz
- Dimensions (W×D×H): 280 × 460 × 398 mm
- Weight: 10 kg
- Colour: Black
- Quantity per package: 1 pc
The Sage Dual Boiler is an espresso machine designed for users who want full control over the brewing process. It is equipped with two separate stainless steel boilers – one for espresso and one for steam – allowing you to brew coffee and steam milk simultaneously without temperature fluctuations.
The machine uses PID technology for precise temperature regulation, keeping the water within a tolerance of ±1 °C. This ensures stable extraction and a consistent flavour profile from shot to shot.
The programmable low-pressure pre-infusion allows you to adjust both duration and pressure so that the coffee is evenly saturated before full pressure is applied. This contributes to a more balanced extraction and better aroma development.
An LCD display provides an overview of settings and extraction time, while the electronic control makes it easy to adjust parameters such as temperature and shot volume. The machine also has a separate hot water outlet that can be used for tea or americano.
The brushed stainless steel construction and included barista tools – including tamper, milk jug, and dose trimmer – support a professional experience at home.
- Dual boiler system: Allows simultaneous brewing and milk steaming without temperature drop.
- PID temperature control: Keeps water temperature stable for optimal extraction.
- Programmable pre-infusion: Adjustable duration and pressure for consistent brewing.
- LCD display: Clearly shows settings and extraction time.
- Separate hot water outlet: Convenient for tea or americano.
Pros and cons
- Precise temperature control with PID regulation
- Ability to brew and steam simultaneously
- Programmable functions for individual customisation
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Comprehensive accessories included
- Requires time for heating and adjustment before use
- The size may be large for small kitchens
- No integrated grinder, requires a separate coffee grinder
Pros and cons
Pros
- Precise temperature control with PID regulation
- Ability to brew and steam simultaneously
- Programmable functions for individual customisation
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Comprehensive accessories included
Cons
- Requires time for heating and adjustment before use
- The size may be large for small kitchens
- No integrated grinder, requires a separate coffee grinder
Pros
- Precise temperature control with PID regulation
- Ability to brew and steam simultaneously
- Programmable functions for individual customisation
- Robust stainless steel construction
- Comprehensive accessories included
Cons
- Requires time for heating and adjustment before use
- The size may be large for small kitchens
- No integrated grinder, requires a separate coffee grinder
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sage
- Model: 61160114 (SES920BSS4EEU1)
- EAN: 9312432030168
- Product type: Automatic coffee machine with milk frother
- Coffee type compatibility: Ground coffee, coffee beans
- Integrated coffee grinder: Yes
- Beverage types: Espresso, double espresso
- Pressure: 15 bar
- Water tank capacity: 2.5 litres
- Coffee bean container: 280 g
- Boilers: Dual, stainless steel
- Power: 2200 W
- Voltage: 220–240 V / 50–60 Hz
- Auto shut-off: Yes
- Display: LCD
- Colour: Brushed stainless steel
- Dimensions (W × D × H): 37 × 36 × 36 cm
- Included accessories: Tamper, filter holder, water filter, cleaning kit, Razor dose trimmer, stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets for 1 and 2 cups, water hardness test
The Sage Barista Pro SES878BSS is an espresso machine designed to deliver barista-quality coffee at home. It is equipped with an integrated conical grinder with 30 grind settings, ensuring freshly ground coffee for every brew.
The machine features an LCD display that provides clear information about settings and the brewing process, as well as precise digital temperature control for consistent results. The ThermoJet heating system reaches optimal brewing temperature in just three seconds, making it ideal for quick preparation.
With a powerful steam wand, milk can be frothed into creamy microfoam, suitable for cappuccino and latte. The removable 2-litre water tank and 250-gram bean hopper provide practical capacity for daily use.
The brushed stainless steel construction combines durability with a sleek appearance, and the machine comes with a selection of accessories, including filter baskets, water filter, cleaning tools, and milk jug.
- ThermoJet heating system: Reaches brewing temperature in just 3 seconds.
- Integrated grinder: Conical grinder with 30 grind settings for freshly ground coffee.
- LCD display: Provides precise control over brewing and settings.
- Powerful steam wand: Froths milk into silky microfoam.
- Robust design: Made of brushed stainless steel with removable water tank and drip tray.
Pros and cons
- Fast heating with ThermoJet technology
- Integrated grinder with many settings
- Precise temperature control and user-friendly display
- Powerful steam wand for milk frothing
- Solid stainless steel construction
- Requires some practice to achieve optimal brewing
- The size may seem space-consuming in small kitchens
Pros and cons
Pros
- Fast heating with ThermoJet technology
- Integrated grinder with many settings
- Precise temperature control and user-friendly display
- Powerful steam wand for milk frothing
- Solid stainless steel construction
Cons
- Requires some practice to achieve optimal brewing
- The size may seem space-consuming in small kitchens
Pros
- Fast heating with ThermoJet technology
- Integrated grinder with many settings
- Precise temperature control and user-friendly display
- Powerful steam wand for milk frothing
- Solid stainless steel construction
Cons
- Requires some practice to achieve optimal brewing
- The size may seem space-consuming in small kitchens
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Sage
- Model: SES878BSS / 61160149
- EAN: 9312432032834
- Product type: Coffee machine with milk frother
- Coffee type compatibility: Ground coffee and coffee beans
- Integrated coffee grinder: Yes, conical grinder with 30 settings
- Water tank capacity: 2 litres
- Coffee bean hopper capacity: 250 g
- Removable water tank: Yes
- Colour: Brushed stainless steel
- Material: Brushed stainless steel
- Display: LCD display
- Power consumption: 1650 W
- Voltage: 220–240 V / 50–60 Hz
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 41 × 35.4 × 40.6 cm
- Weight: 9.08 kg
- Included accessories: Cleaning tools, water filter, single and double wall filter basket, Razor dose trimmer, milk jug (480 ml)
Different types of espresso machines
Espresso machines come in many varieties that differ in the degree of automation, control, and price. The choice depends on how much you want to be involved in the brewing process.
1. Manual espresso machines
Manual machines give you full control over the brewing. You control the pressure, water amount, and timing yourself, which requires practice but also allows you to fine-tune the flavour. They appeal to enthusiasts who enjoy the process as much as the result.
2. Semi-automatic espresso machines
These machines combine control and convenience. You grind and tamp the coffee yourself, but the machine controls the water pressure and temperature. It’s a popular choice for those who want authentic espresso without compromising on ease of use.
3. Fully automatic espresso machines
At the touch of a button, the machine grinds, doses, and brews the coffee automatically. They are ideal for busy mornings when you want quality without hassle. Many models have programmable profiles so you can save your preferences.
4. Capsule machines
Capsule machines are the most convenient solution. They require minimal cleaning and deliver consistent results every time. The downside is that you’re tied to specific capsule types, and the flavour can be less complex than with freshly ground coffee.
Different brands of espresso machines
The espresso machine market is characterised by both traditional Italian manufacturers and modern technology brands, each with their own strengths.
De’Longhi
De’Longhi offers a wide range of machines – from capsule models to advanced fully automatic solutions. The brand is known for user-friendliness, elegant design, and reliable quality.
Sage
Sage (known as Breville in some countries) focuses on semi-automatic machines with precise temperature control and built-in grinders. They cater to those who want barista-quality coffee at home.
Jura
Jura specialises in fully automatic machines with a focus on comfort and consistency. The machines feature advanced cleaning programmes and intuitive control panels, making them popular in both homes and offices.
Gaggia
As one of the oldest espresso brands, Gaggia has a reputation for classic Italian quality. Their machines combine traditional design with modern technology and are particularly popular among enthusiasts.
Nespresso
Nespresso has made espresso accessible to everyone with its capsule system. The machines are compact, fast, and easy to use – ideal for those who want a quick cup without hassle.
Frequently asked questions
How do I maintain my espresso machine?
Clean the brewing unit regularly, descale the machine according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, and rinse the milk frother after each use. Regular maintenance ensures better flavour and extends the machine’s lifespan.
What type of coffee should I use?
Espresso machines work best with freshly roasted, high-quality beans. Choose a dark-roasted espresso blend for a classic taste or try medium-roasted beans for a more nuanced profile.
Why does my espresso taste bitter?
Bitterness can be caused by too high a brewing temperature, coffee ground too finely, or too long an extraction time. Adjust the grinder setting and brewing time to find the right balance.
Can I use regular coffee in an espresso machine?
It’s not recommended. Espresso requires a finer grind and a specific roast level to achieve the right extraction and crema.
How often should I descale the machine?
It depends on the water hardness and how often you use it. As a rule of thumb, you should descale every 1–2 months if you use the machine daily.
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