Espresso Machine

Guide Note

An espresso machine is a machine that forces hot water through finely ground coffee held in place by a metal sieve. The force of the water through the coffee produces an espresso, a strong concentrated coffee drink.

Fast Facts

1. Common uses: Making espressos
2. Price range: $27-$10,000
3. Best cleaned twice a week
4. Never wash with soap

Buying Guide

There are three types of espresso machines: Super-automatic, semi-automatic and manual.

The manual machine is the cheapest machine available. It has an electrical heating unit. The pressure needed to brew an espresso is created by the user. The machine allows the user to force heated water through the coffee.

The semi-automatic espresso machine has a removable filter, called a portafilter, that can be filled with coffee grounds and then locked in place. There is an electrical system that controls the pressure of the water used in brewing.

Generally more expensive than the other two the super automatic espresso machine will make an espresso without any preparation from the user. The machine will even grind the coffee and throw away the used coffee grounds. They are often programmable.

Top Brands

• Bialetti
• DeLonghi
• Krups
• Capresso
• Mr. Coffee
• Lello
• Hamilton Beach