How to Choose the Right Coffee Machine for You: Tips and Recommendations
Coffee has long since become more than just a way to stave off sleep or boost your morning energy. For lovers of this beverage, coffee time is a special ritual—whether enjoyed at home in pajamas at an hour when most are still asleep, or in a social setting with friends or colleagues.
Here at KitchenShop, we love coffee too, and we’re delighted to share how to pick the perfect coffee machine for your kitchen and lifestyle.
Types of Coffee Machines
First, let’s clear up the espresso vs. “expresso” debate:
The Italian term is caffè espresso, meaning “pressed coffee.” Its similarity to the English word “express” led people—especially in France—to call it “expresso,” though Americans stick to the original Italian spelling. No rule forces you to choose one or the other, but we recommend using the version found in the Romanian dictionary: espresso.
Here are the most common kinds of coffee makers and espresso machines:
Manual Espresso Machine
Ideal for true coffee aficionados who love black coffee. You control every step: you fill the metal portafilter, you pull the lever, forcing hot water through finely ground beans to yield a rich shot of espresso. To make cappuccinos or lattes, you’ll need a separate milk frother or a machine with a built-in steamer.
Automatic Espresso Machine
This machine does everything—except buy the beans. It doses, grinds, tamps, and brews at the push of a button. It’s fast and convenient. The best models include a built-in milk frother for cappuccinos and other creamy drinks.
Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine
Similar to the automatic, but you still grind and load the portafilter yourself. The rest—tamping and brewing—is one button away.
Super-Automatic Espresso Machine
An all-in-one solution that handles grinding, tamping, brewing, and milk frothing. The downside? Limited customization: you can’t adjust grind size, shot strength, or milk foam texture. You might compensate with a separate grinder and frother.
Drip Coffee Maker
A classic filter brewer with paper or mesh filters. Perfect for larger batches without advanced techniques: hot water drips through ground coffee into a carafe, filtering out the grounds. Simple and aromatic.
How to Choose the Best Coffee Machine
If you’re unsure which machine to buy, here’s how to interpret common specs and features:
Power & Pressure
Look for at least 1000 W for efficient heating and fast brewing. For espresso machines, aim for 9 bar of pressure to extract rich, aromatic shots—higher pressure can improve infusion quality.
Capacity
Consider water-tank size if you entertain often or brew multiple cups. Some machines can brew two cups at once.
Features & Functions
Even if you’re not a latte lover, a built-in milk frother is handy for guests. Connoisseurs may want adjustable grind settings, water temperature control, and programmable shot timing.
Appearance & Size
Espresso machines often add style to a kitchen. Manual machines have a retro vibe with their lever handles. Many models come in colors beyond black and stainless steel, letting you add personality to your space.
Budget
Prices range from a few hundred lei for compact pod machines to several thousand for premium brands like KitchenAid or DeLonghi. Higher costs often mean better durability and innovative features—worth the investment if you crave a top-notch, customizable coffee experience.
Proper Maintenance
Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning guide, and incorporate these daily and periodic tasks:
- After each use, wipe coffee and steam nozzles with a damp cloth to remove oils and residue.
- Empty and rinse the portafilter on manual machines to prevent clogging.
- Descale every 1–3 months, depending on usage and water hardness. Use BRITA filters to reduce lime scale.
Tips for Perfect Coffee & Longevity
- Use high-quality whole beans—no mediocre coffee can be rescued by a great machine.
- If your machine lacks a built-in grinder, invest in a separate burr mill to grind to the correct size for your brew method.
- Preheat cups with hot water to preserve espresso temperature.
- Use filtered water to protect flavor and prevent scale buildup.
- Experiment with beans from different regions to explore flavor notes—fruity for African, nutty or chocolatey for Latin American.
- Turn off the machine when not in use to avoid overheating and wear on heating elements.
- Choose well-built, durable machines over cheaper plastic models.
- Opt for brands known for longevity and easy access to replacement parts.
We hope this guide sheds light on the vast world of coffee machines. Now it’s up to you to select the trusty appliance that will brighten many mornings to come.