What To Look For When Buying — An Espresso Machine

Allows you to brew and steam simultaneously by running a tube through the steam boiler.

Most home machines have a tank. Make sure it's easy to remove and refill.

Maximum convenience and consistency with zero cleanup, though the per-cup cost is higher and flavor is limited to available pods. 2. Heating Systems what to look for when buying an espresso machine

Heats water on demand (like a tankless water heater). It’s fast and found in cheaper machines, but can be less temperature-consistent. 3. Key Technical Features

Are you leaning more toward (automatic) or would you prefer to learn the craft (semi-automatic)? Allows you to brew and steam simultaneously by

The most popular choice. The machine handles the water pressure, but you grind the beans, tamp the puck, and time the shot.

Never forget the grinder . An expensive espresso machine paired with a cheap grinder will produce poor coffee. If you have a $1,000 budget, it is often better to spend $600 on the machine and $400 on a dedicated burr grinder. It’s fast and found in cheaper machines, but

This determines how long the machine takes to warm up and if you can steam milk and brew coffee at the same time.