How to Choose a Cheap Espresso Machine
Making espresso requires water that is at the proper temperature and pressure to extract flavor from the ground coffee. A high-quality espresso machine with these features can cost upwards of $5,000.
Fortunately, it is possible to enjoy espresso on the budget. Here are some guidelines to choose the most affordable coffee machine.
Cost
If you're looking to try their hand at making espresso, a quality espresso machine isn't cheap. You can spend up to $4,000 based on the espresso machine you pick. This includes the cost of an espresso maker that is manual grinder, a grinder and coffee beans. Pod or capsule machines are the least expensive as semi-automatic and automated espresso makers set you back around $150 to $500.
It is crucial to do some research before choosing the right espresso maker. If you're new to the world of coffee choose an espresso maker that has an easy-to-use dial and steam wand. You can experiment with the settings and see how they affect the taste. Dual boiler models are perfect for espresso drinkers who wish to prepare both espresso as well as steamed milk simultaneously. However, this kind of machine will generally be more expensive than single-boiler models.
When it comes down to the cost, you should think about how often you use the espresso machine and the type of drinks you'll be making. If you're planning to make some cappuccinos or lattes every day, you may find it worthwhile to invest in an automatic steamer that heats the water to the correct temperature and then does the work for you. If you only take a cup of espresso once or twice a week then a manual machine could be a better option to cut down time and effort.
The latest machines make it easier for even the most inexperienced espresso drinkers to enjoy this hobby. For instance, the Coffee Gator Stilosa offers impressive quality and consistency of brewing for less than $500 which makes it one of our top picks for espresso machines with a budget.
The entry-level model is fantastic even though it's not equipped with the sophisticated features that our more expensive picks have, like the digital PID that controls water temperature or a high-quality wand of steam. The Espresso Gator heats up fast so you can enjoy your coffee in less than 10 minutes.
Capacity
If you are planning to make top-quality espressos at home, it is crucial to select a machine that comes with an effective pump and steam wand. It should also include an enormous water reservoir and a tank that can be removed. These features will save you time and effort while brewing your favorite coffee. You should also think about the frequency of usage. If you're only looking to make one quick espresso shot once or twice a month then a small, portable model could be adequate. If you intend to use the machine for events or other gatherings, then a larger model may be more appropriate.
A good espresso machine will produce strong streams that steam the milk to create an even foam that is creamy and smooth. It should be equipped with a built in thermometer to ensure that the water is the right temperature to brew. This is especially important when you're making lattes or cappuccinos, which require more hot water.
Some espresso machines that are cheap offer a high level of pressure, however this isn't necessarily a good thing. A high pressure can cause excessive extraction and an unpleasant taste in the espresso. The majority of espresso machines are rated for 9 bars of pressure, and not higher.
The most cost-effective espresso machines are those that provide high levels of consistency, control and durability. These qualities are essential in a cafe setting, where baristas brew hundreds of drinks every day. A lot of cheap machines won't be as stable or reliable as the more expensive models. However, they will be used for a long period of time if maintained correctly.
Manual espresso makers are a good option for those who prefer the traditional manual method of making coffee. For example the Wacaco Picopresso is small, hand-powered device that uses a piston to create the high levels of pressure needed for a perfect espresso. Picopresso is available in a variety of sizes ranging from one to 18, and can be used with virtually any stovetop, including ceramic and induction. It is also great for camping and travel.
Design
A cheap espresso machine will not have a lot of bells or whistles but it should still be able to produce decent shots. The primary differences between less expensive and more expensive machines are generally the stability of temperature (or consistency) and convenience features.
Many espresso makers make use of a combination of pressure and heat to extract espresso from coffee beans. The majority of espresso machines are designed to create an ideal pressure of between 8 and 15 bar. Pressure is created through steaming hot water to fill the boiler. The higher the pressure the more intense is the extraction. A high-end espresso maker must be able to consistently deliver this level of pressure.
Maintainability and ease of use is a different aspect to consider when selecting a low-cost coffee maker. The design of an Espresso machine can impact the ease or difficulty it is to clean and operate. For example certain machines come with detachable parts that can be machine-washed. This makes cleaning much easier than if the entire machine is just one piece of equipment.
Other machines require more effort to clean and operate. For instance, some machines may need to be manually flushed using hot water to wash out residue. This is particularly true for older espresso machines. The design of an espresso machine can also affect how easy it is to refill the reservoir of water and how quickly the machine heats up.
A quality machine that is affordable should have an easy-to-use interface and sufficient features to satisfy the needs of the majority of consumers. It should be simple to maintain, and repair. Many budget espresso machines include a manual to help users troubleshoot problems.
We looked for espresso machines that offered a variety features and settings. We were looking for an espresso machine that could be appealing to both those who are experienced and also new to espresso. We also considered the price and if it came with a grinder integrated.
We tested a prosumer model from Lelit, which is now owned by Breville. This model is often referred to as a semi-professional espresso maker and is in essence a scaled-down version of the most sought-after commercial espresso machines. The Pro X is stylish and powerful, but it's not as precise as some of the other models we tested.
Features
When shopping for an espresso maker, there are many items, such as doodads, and nick-knacks to think about. Deciding the most important ones isn't easy particularly when you're investing hundreds of dollars. To make the process simpler start by imagining how often you'll use the machine.
Generally, more frequent use means that you'll require a machine that has the most robust construction. The reason is that constant brewing can cause mineral buildup which can cause the steam wand and water pump to wear out faster than they would otherwise. The majority of espresso machines that are budget-friendly are constructed with lower-quality metal to reduce the chances of problems.
It is also coffee machine espresso important to consider whether you prefer a manual or automatic machine. The former is simpler to operate, while the latter can be more challenging for beginners. Automatic machines are equipped with dual boilers, which can brew and simultaneously vaporize. This is great to make lattes and cappuccinos. However, they can be tricky to use and may require more maintenance than manual machines.
A manual espresso maker, such as the De'Longhi Stilosa, is a great choice for espresso enthusiasts who are on a tight budget. It includes a pressurized container for pre-ground coffee, and an ordinary basket that can be made bottomless. It comes with a portafilter removable that is easy to clean and a user-friendly interface.
One disadvantage is that it doesn't include the steam gauge, however if you don't drink enough milk-based drinks to justify the cost of a separate steamer, this isn't a big issue. It's also noisy, but is cheaper than most other models of this type.
The Nespresso Essenza Mini is a great espresso machine at the price. It's a multi-tasker, capable of producing espresso and regular coffee in sizes ranging from 0.84 to 135 fluid ounces. It's not the most powerful espresso machine but it's a reliable machine that can last for a long time. It has a powerful steam wand however this could be a drawback for certain users.