How to Choose a Cheap Espresso Machine
Espresso requires water at the right temperature and pressure to get the flavor from the ground coffee. A high-quality espresso machine that has these features could cost up to $5,000.
It is, however, possible to enjoy espresso on an affordable budget. Here are some suggestions for choosing the best cheap coffee machine.
Cost
A good quality espresso maker isn't an inexpensive purchase for those who are keen to learn how to make espresso. Based on the type of machine you choose you can expect to spend up to $4,000. This includes a manual coffee grinder as well as an espresso maker, and coffee beans. Pod or capsule machines are the cheapest as semi-automatic and automated espresso makers cost you between $150-$500.
The best espresso machine requires some research into what you're looking for and want from your coffee-making experience. If you are a complete novice, you should choose a manual espresso machine that comes with an easy-to use dial and steam wand. You can experiment with the settings and observe how they affect the flavor. Dual boiler models are ideal for espresso drinkers who wish to prepare both espresso as well as steam milk at the same time. This kind of machine is typically more expensive than single boiler models.
In terms of price, it's important to consider the frequency you'll use the espresso maker and the kinds of drinks you'll be making. If you're planning to make some cappuccinos or lattes every day, you may decide to invest in an auto-steamer that warms the water to a suitable temperature and then makes the coffee for you. However, if you only consume espresso a couple of times each week then a manual machine could be the better option to cut down on time and effort.
Although it was once a matter of some serious skill and perseverance to produce cafe-quality espresso at home, the newer machines have made it a much more accessible hobby for all but the most seasoned of espresso drinkers. For example, the Coffee Gator Stilosa offers impressive capacity and consistency in brewing for less than $500 which makes it one of our top picks for budget espresso machines.
It doesn't have the advanced features of our higher-priced espresso machine picks including a digital PID to control the temperature of water as well as a premium steam wand, but it's a fantastic entry-level model. The Espresso Gator heats up fast, so you can enjoy your coffee in just 10 minutes.
Capacity
If you want to make top-quality espressos at home, it is important that you select a machine with an effective pump and a steam wand. It should also come with an ample water reservoir as well as an adjustable tank. These features will allow you to save time and effort when brewing your favorite coffee. Moreover, you should also consider how often you'll use the machine. For instance, if you just require a quick shot of espresso once or twice a week, a smaller portable model could be adequate. If you are planning to use the machine for parties or other events, an even larger model could be more suitable.
A quality espresso maker will create an intense stream that will steam the milk to create an even foam that is creamy. It should be equipped with an inbuilt thermometer that will ensure the water is the right temperature to brew. This is especially important when you're making cappuccinos or lattes, which require hot water.
A few cheap espresso machines have a high pressure level but it's not always a good thing. Pressure that is too high can result in over-extraction which can result in bitter taste of espresso. The majority of espresso machines are rated for 9 bars of pressure and not higher.
The most reliable and affordable espresso machines provide high levels of espresso machine with frother control, consistency, and durability. These qualities are essential in a cafe environment where baristas prepare hundreds of drinks each day. Most cheap machines will not be as reliable or stable as more expensive models. However, they will still last a long time if maintained in a way that is properly.
Manual espresso makers are a good choice for those who prefer the traditional manual method of brewing coffee. For instance, the Wacaco Picopresso is small, hand-powered machine that uses a piston to generate the high levels pressure needed to make an ideal espresso. Picopresso comes in a range of sizes ranging from one up to 18 inches, and is compatible with virtually any stovetop, including ceramic and induction. It is also ideal for camping and traveling.
Design
A basic espresso machine may not have many bells and 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 built to operate at a pressure of 8 and 15 bar. Pressure is generated through steaming hot water to fill the boiler. The higher the pressure is, the more intense is the extraction. A high-end espresso maker must be able to consistently provide this amount of pressure.
Easy to use and maintainability is another important factor when choosing a cheap coffee machine. The design of an Espresso machine will determine the ease or difficulty it is to clean and operate. Some machines, for example, have parts that can be easily cleaned in a machine. This makes cleaning much easier than if it was only a single machine.
Other machines require more effort to clean and operate. For instance, certain machines might require manually flushed using hot water to wash out any remaining residue. This is particularly true for older espresso machines. The design of an espresso machine can also affect the ease of fill the reservoir with water and how quickly the machine heats up.
A good cheap espresso machine should have an easy-to-use interface and sufficient features to meet the requirements of the majority customers. It should be easy to maintain, and repair. A lot of espresso machines that are budget-friendly come with an instruction manual to assist users in solving common issues.
During our reviews we looked for espresso machines that offer many options and settings. We wanted machines that appeal 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 type of machine is sometimes referred to as an espresso maker that is semi-professional, and is essentially a smaller version of the most sought-after commercial espresso machines. The Pro X is stylish and powerful however, it's not as precise as the other models we've tried.
Features
When shopping for an espresso maker, there are a myriad of things like doodads, nick-knacks and other things that you should consider. It can be difficult to determine which features are the most important, especially if you're spending hundreds of dollars. To make the process more simple start by imagining how often you'll be using the machine.
In general the case, a machine used more often will need to be constructed more robustly. This is due to the fact that continuous brewing can lead to mineral buildup that can cause the steam wand and water pump to wear down faster than it would normally. This is why most espresso machines on the market are constructed using lower-quality materials, to reduce the risk of such problems.
Another feature to consider is whether you want an automatic or manual machine. The former is more simple to operate, however the latter is more difficult for those who are new to the field. Automated machines have two boilers that can brew and steam simultaneously which is helpful to make lattes or cappuccinos. They can be difficult to operate and require more maintenance.
Manual espresso makers, such as the De'Longhi Stilosa are a great option for espresso lovers on a budget. It comes with a pressurized basket for coffee ground in advance, as well as an ordinary basket that can be made bottomless. It has a removable portafilter that is easy to clean and has a user-friendly interface.
It does not have the steam gauge. However it is a good choice if you don't consume enough milk-based drinks to justify the cost of a steamer that is dedicated, then this shouldn't be a problem. It's also a bit noisy, but it's nevertheless less expensive than other models in this class.
The Nespresso Essenza Mini is a solid espresso machine at a reasonable price. It's a multi-tasker that's capable of producing both regular and espresso in sizes from 0.84 to 135 fluid ounces. It's not the most powerful of espresso machines, but it's a reliable and consistent model that will last for an extended period of time. It has a powerful steam wand, but that could also be a disadvantage for some users.