An Espresso Machine Buying Guide For Coffee Lovers On The Go
No coffee lover can underestimate the importance of that first cup of coffee in the morning. Many of us feel we cannot function without and a high quality espresso to start the day, which leads to a strong desire for the best espresso maker for the home.
We all want to find a machine that is able to provide the coffee house experience and taste, but in a convenient manner at home. Here we will look at some of the most important features to look at when choosing the best machine.
This home espresso machine buying guide will cover the following:
- the type of coffee made and its quality
- the speed of the process and the heat of the drink
- the ease of use in selecting and adapting a drink
- the ease of cleaning
- the energy efficiency
- the look of the machine
We will start with the types of coffee that these machines can make.
When you think about the ideal espresso coffee maker, is it just an espresso machine, or can it make more? Did the designer offer a broader selection for versatility, or focus on the ideal espresso. There are pros and cons to both approaches. A single-purpose option may focus on the brewing process and a range of setting to fine tune the ideal cup.
However, there may be lazier mornings where a longer latte or cappuccino is necessary. In addition to this, we need to look at the way it makes the coffee. Is it a grounds to cup or bean to cup model. Be aware that some bean to cup options can be a little noisy first thing in the morning.
The style of coffee is almost as important as the quality. Does it taste right after this period of brewing and prepping? Is it strong enough and can you alter the strength manually? Is it smooth rather than grainy? We all want coffee from a machine with the very best components and grinders for the best taste.
Ideally, it will reflect that coffee house experience in terms of the body and strength. This will depend on the beans as much as the machine, but some machines can handle them better than others.
Is it fast enough with a hot cup of coffee at the end?
This is all about a quick pick me up in the morning, so nobody wants a long time waiting for the coffee to brew or the machine to warm up. At the same time, you don’t want it to rush through the process and compromise on quality.
It is also worth looking to see how many shots it can handle at once. Does it have a double action for two people at once, or will your partner have to wait their turn? As for the heat, some espresso makers and coffee machines struggle with temperature. Cup warmers can help here.
The controls and general ease of use for creating the perfect cup.
The next consideration with this home espresso machine buying guide is the user-friendly nature of the machine. It is no good if a machine promises to be able to offer a great tasting cup at just the right strength and temperature, but the controls are too difficult to negotiate.
Nobody wants to spent hours fiddling with knobs and flicking through a manual for a cup of coffee. Look out for simple -one-touch solutions for quick brews, user favourite selection options and dials for simple fine tuning.
On the subject of ease of use, there is the ease of cleaning. The worst part of owning a coffee machine is having to clean it all out. Some require cleaning more frequently than others. Some have warnings and sensors to tell users when trays are full or it is time for a clean. This can be helpful, but not when they are oversensitive.
Finding an energy efficient model.
Energy efficiency is important in many modern kitchen. We are more aware of the impact of our appliances on energy usage and our use of disposable goods. Ideally, we want greener machines for greener living, which means a well-made durable option with low energy use. Many top models offer eco-modes and auto-shut off features to ensure that the machine doesn’t idly sit there doing nothing and wasting power.
The look of the machine.
The final factor in this buyer’s guide may seem inconsequential compared to the mechanics and settings. However, the look of the machine is a big selling point. It has to look good out on the counter if it is a permanent fixture in the kitchen.
Some machines are sleek and compact so they don’t dominate the space, while others are big, bold machines that look like professional appliances. The colour can also vary to suit the décor, with many consumers favouring blacks and chromes.
The importance of research, comparing specifications and reading consumer feedback.
When you are sure of the right type of machine for your needs and the priority features, it is time to undertake some careful research to find the right model in online listings and stores. The marketplace is full of different models with their own selling points and top features.
Take the time when researching to compare the specifications and determine the true power behind those shots and diversity in the settings. At the same time, consumer stories are essential when learning more about those sales pitches. Online testimonials can teach you about the ease of use, cleaning and heat of the drink. Research well for the best choice.
Summary: finding the best espresso maker for yourself.
As you can see from this espresso machine buying guide, there is more to this type of machine than a good-tasting shot of coffee. The type of coffee produced, and the method involved, is an important starting point when choosing the best machine.
However, it also pays to look at the mechanics and settings to see how easy it is to fine tune the perfect quantity, strength and heat. A user-friendly, adaptive machine with a quick process, energy-efficiency and simple cleaning will make the morning routine much more convenient.