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Should You Buy an Espresso Machine? Espresso machines require higher levels of pressure and temperature than your normal coffee maker. They also make more concentrated and full-bodied cup of coffee. You'll want a machine that has two boilers which allows you to make steam milk and espresso simultaneously. This is a major improvement over single boiler espresso machines. Features Even beginners can now get a good shot of espresso. A key feature is the pressure gauge which allows you to see the level of water pressure in the pump while it is operating. It can help prevent channeling which can lead to weak shots. This feature is only available on models with higher end features. Another crucial feature is a pre-infusion system, which helps to ensure that all of the grounds are covered with water, which is essential for extraction. This feature is also found on higher-end machines and reduces the chance that coffee will burn. You should also think about whether you'd like to buy an automatic or semiautomatic machine. A super-automatic machine is foolproof and lets you create milk drinks and espresso by pressing a button. However they can be costly and may not fit your tastes if you want to play with grinding, tamping or milk steaming. You can select a semi-automatic with a bean hopper and grinder for a more personal experience. These machines appear more traditional and let you control the espresso process including grind settings and temperature. They're offered at a more affordable price point, but they require a little more work from the user. Cost There are a variety of different options available when choosing an espresso machine. The decision is based on how you intend to use it and what features are important to you. In general, more features will mean higher prices. You might consider whether you'd prefer to be able to start and stop brewing by hand or if an entirely automated model is more appealing. The most basic espresso machines come with portsafilters and a milk container that you connect manually, and they require daily cleaning of the portafilter and the milk jug. They also require descaler treatments every few months to keep them in good shape. Depending on discount espresso machines , some have built-in water filters which help reduce hardness and improve taste. Professional espresso machines often come with dual boilers that allow you to steam and brew milk at the same time. This saves you time and ensures that each process is cooked at the proper temperature. Having a professional-grade espresso machine in your home can make it easy to make delicious lattes, cappuccinos, flat whites and other drinks. Certain espresso machines let you control the amount of coffee ground, the grinder's setting and the tampering force manually. This allows you to enjoy an experience that is similar to a barista at home. These machines are more expensive than semi-automatic models, but they're a great alternative for those who love the process of making coffee. Types If you're looking to purchase or lease an espresso machine, consider the alternatives carefully. Leased machines require less cash upfront, but they do increase maintenance costs as time passes. It will cost more upfront but you'll be able to own your equipment outright. The espresso machine you buy will depend on your needs and the type of coffee you'll serve. Many models come with steam wands that heat and froth milk for cappuccinos and lattes. Many also have a removable, dishwasher-safe jug for making large batches of iced beverages or coffee. There are models that are completely automated that grinds, weighs and tamps your beans. It also uses pre-measured pods for convenience. They are the ones that score highest in Lab tests due to their ease of use however, they will cost more than a manual or semi-automatic model. There are single-boiler as well as multi-boiler espresso machines that are more robust in temperature than others, allowing for an unbeatable flavorful espresso. However, they take up more counter space and will cost more. Maintenance A well-maintained espresso machine will ensure that your coffee tastes its best. Regular cleaning and descaling also prolongs the lifespan of the espresso machine. Cleaning it regularly can also stop the accumulation and degradation of coffee oils that could alter the taste. Giorgio suggests that you choose the machine with a removable brew unit and drip tray that is easy to clean. He claims that this will save you time and money in the end by reducing the need to clean the drip pan as well being able to avoid the additional cost of a separate milk frother. It is also important to look for an espresso maker with an extremely high pressure in the water, which will help you achieve an even extraction of flavor and a thick crema. A quality machine will be able to reach an absolute pressure of nine bars. If you're thinking of buying a semi-automatic or a super-automatic espresso maker, consider how much space you have in your kitchen and whether you plan to plumb it. If you're restricted in cabinet space, consider an electric model that is portable. You can use it without the need to connect a water line. A drip-free machine will save you the hassle of emptying out a waste bin after every use. Make sure that you purchase an espresso maker with a water tank which is easy to fill, empty and clean.