Before You Purchase A Home Espresso Makers

Craving for that perfect cup of espresso? Instead of running to your  favorite corner cafe or the local coffee shop, why not consider making your own at home. If the thought of becoming a kitchen barista has you shaking without any caffeine, think again! There are so many types of espresso makers in the marketplace that are geared for home use, from the basic type to the same machines used by the professionals. However, consider your options and needs first before you drop a couple hundred of dollars on that top of the line espresso machine. Also, if you are experiencing sticker shock from some of the higher end espresso machines, keep in mind that you are saving a great deal on a daily basis by avoiding high priced indulgences at coffee shops or cafes.

Before choosing a home espresso maker, the first thing you should know is that there are several different varieties of espresso machines. Each type of espresso maker will come with a different price tag and of course differences in capabilities. Although the top of the line machine may be nice, it may not necessarily meet your needs. Instead of buying an espresso machine simply because it is deemed the “best,” buy a machine that th meet your needs and that you can (and will) use on a regular basis.

The following are the different types of home espresso makers:

Pump Espresso:

The coffee shop is typically where you will find the pump espresso machine. It is usually made for commercial purposes but it can also be used in your home. Be prepared to expand your budget if you are looking to buy a pump espresso machine, since they are usually the most expensive of the bunch. Also, pump espresso machines are usually the largest, heaviest, and noisiest of the options, but it produces a fantastic cup of espresso. These machines work by using a pump to keep the water pressure at an appropriate level.

Piston Espresso:

If you are looking for a great, low maintenance espresso machine, consider those than run on a piston or lever system. Instead of a pump to create pressure, these machines use a lever that must be maneuvered in order to create steam. Although a piston espresso machine is very quiet, they may require a great deal of arm strength to continually pull on the lever. Furthermore, the piston espresso machine is capable of making a great cup of espresso, but it may take practice to get the hang of the process.

Steam Espresso:

The steam espresso machine as the name imply, uses steam to create pressure to make the espresso. These steam powered espresso machines are typically the type found in the home. With smaller machines that occupy less space and cost less money, steam espresso machines are quite quick and easy to use. However, keep in mind that the steam produced may not provide the appropriate level of pressure, so the steam level should be constantly maintained.

Moka Pots:

Moka Pots are a stovetop method to producing espresso. The process is simple and easy, although the final product may be less than professional. Using specially designed two-part pot, the steam produced by the water boiling in the bottom of the pot is forced into the top part of the pot, where the coffee is boiling. It requires a great deal less pressure than the other types of home espresso machines, but there is no milk frothing or foaming attachments, so you may have to sacrifice that feature for price and size.

Any one of these different types of home espresso machines will allow you to make a delicious cup of espresso. Your choice should be based upon needs, usability, overall size of the machine, and of course the price. A high end espresso machine can run up a bill in the thousands of dollars.