Home Espresso Machines

An espresso machine is used to produce the traditional concentrated brew we call espresso! The espresso machine will usually also have the ability to make steamed milk which added to the espresso makes cappuccino, latte etc ....

Espresso machines are one type of coffee machine, others such as filter coffee makers can be found in our Home Coffee Makers category.

These are the more traditional espresso machines where you have a portafilter (brew handle) which you fill with coffee, tamp (pack down) and then lock the handle in place. They can also be called automatic espresso machines when you can programme the shot (or cup) size.

These are the favourite machines for people who like café quality coffee and want to have more control over the whole espresso making process. 

These are the new breed of coffee machines sometimes referred to as ‘bean to cup’. 

With sections for coffee beans and water, the machine will freshly grind your beans, tamp the ground coffee and deliver your espresso into a waiting cup. Used grinds are dispensed into an internal bin. Machines have various levels of programming and drinks options including delivering your steamed milk straight into your cup. Less mess and more convenience.

These machines, some basically unchanged since this early espresso machine design, are completely manual except for the heating element.

The pressure to make your espresso is created by a piston which is operated by a lever. These machines are mechanically beautiful but more difficult to use. They produce an excellent espresso but it is all down to your pull of the lever. This is where the expression ‘pulling a shot’ came from.
 

These espresso machines are easy to use, quick and mess free. They use pods and capsules which are available from supermarkets or the brand’s own websites. Some machines offer programming and milk options.