The art of brewing the perfect espresso depends on several factors: the beans, the pressure, and most importantly: your espresso machine itself. Selecting a device that would fit your budget, home, and lifestyle seamlessly may feel like a daunting task, but rest be assured, we at Somethings Brewing are here to help.
Lets take a deep dive into the world of espresso machines and everything you need to know before taking the plunge.
What is most important to you?
The market is full of options, but you need to ask yourself what you want your espresso machine to do. Are you looking to brew multiple cups at a time? Do you want double espressos waiting for you when you wake up in the morning? You might want a programmable electronic device, like a Solis or a Budan. If start-up time is a concern for you, a thermoblock is ready to go in seconds, while boiler-based machines can take between 10-20 minutes to reach thermal equilibrium. How many cups do you need? Are you willing to splurge? Asking yourself a few questions and understanding your brewing style is a good place to start.
How automated do you want the brewing process?
If time is not a constraint and your end goal is to brew a tasty cuppa, you might want to look at a semi automatic or a manual device. Manual controlled extractions are best crafted in a Bezzera BZ10, which is perfect for those who like to take control of how their machine brews the coffee. Fully automated machines are best for those who want quick results, with minimal inputs, like a Solis.
How much time do you have to clean it?
Often overlooked, but the key to a fresh brew also lies in how clean your equipment is. Unclean filters are notorious espresso destroyers, so make note of how easy or difficult a particular device is to assemble and disassemble.
Do you need it to be portable?
While you might not plan on backpacking with your espresso machine, it is an important aspect to consider, especially if you are looking to move, or don’t have a designated coffee bar in your home. Figure out how heavy and large the unit is, which would help you figure out how it fits in your home. We suggest investing in a compact yet powerful Nanopresso which will delivers espresso-like brews on-the-go.
Have you done your research?
It’s no secret that a well designed, well serviced espresso machine can likely outlive you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and do hands-on research on the machine. How well does it retain heat? Does it have separate boilers for water and milk? Is that important to you? If it is, you might want to consider investing in a Silvia Pro, Bianca or Mini.
The devil is truly in the details, so before you decide to invest in a machine, it’s helpful to think about how the machine will fit in your lifestyle, if you have the time and capacity to operate, and clean it properly. Happy brewing!
