Only true coffee lovers can understand the hassle of visiting a nearby coffee shop to get a brewing hot cup of espresso to start the day. It is no wonder it is difficult; after all, having to visit the coffee shop to get espresso to “begin” the day is a big loophole in technology. Well, only for those who do not own an automatic espresso machine! Imagine not needing to spend time, effort, and additional money on your expensive temptation. Imagine waking up to a steaming hot espresso mug made by the fastest and most efficient device; the automatic espresso machine.
This one-time investment will surely be worth it. However, knowing that an automatic coffee machine is not going to be an inexpensive investment, the decision is crucial, and you do not want to regret spending loads on a useless device. With so many options in the market, no doubt, making the right choice is a hassle but no need to worry! We have compiled some of the best automatic espresso machines there are in the market. Browse through this list, and you are bound to land yourself a coffee machine that will make every day ten times easier.
Best Automatic Espresso Machines
Are you also a die-hard coffee addict who just cannot go without a morning cup of espresso? Then you must understand the importance of the perfect cup of silky-smooth espresso bursting with flavor. After all, only an espresso lover can understand the need to have the ideal and customized cup of coffee. If you are going to buy an espresso machine, the product you land yourself will significantly impact your lifestyle. The decision is crucial. Let us have a look at some of the best super-automatic espresso machines so that you do not end up buying a product that falls short of your expectations.
1. De’Longhi ESAM3300 Magnifica Super-Automatic Espresso & Coffee Machine, Silver
If you are in search of a reasonably priced, excellent quality super-automatic espresso machine, this is just the thing for you. Compared to other products in the market, it is much cheaper considering its features.
The espresso mug brewed every time will be fresh in every sense, as the 13 adjustable grinders will grind fresh beans with every run. You may, however, choose if you want to use pre-ground beans in the second chamber.
Do you like your coffee strictly as per your taste? In that case, this espresso machine is just right as it follows customized settings to brew the perfect cup at the right temperature, density, and richness with consistency every time.
Someone who has espresso very often would certainly not want to go through the hassle of clean-up the coffee maker every time. This espresso machine is very easy to handle and clean. The brew unit is easy to clean because it is compact and extractable.
The espresso quality is also delicious with thick and long-lasting foam. You can customize the creaminess and make a creamy latte, flat white, or a macchiato, whichever you desire. The best part is the programmability and customization. You can program the super-automatic espresso machine with the espresso of your choice.
It has 5 drink options, multi-length, Latte, Cappuccino, Americano, and Hot water, much more than what many other machines offer at the same price.
If you are a fan of diversity, this is an excellent feature for you. Its rotary control user interface is easy to understand and use. To froth the milk, you would need to use the manual steam wand. In short, it is just the right choice.
2. Nespresso Essenza Mini Original Espresso Machine by Breville, Pure White
This interestingly small espresso machine is actually surprisingly bold, making it highly compact and easy to fit wherever you need it. It is also remarkably light in weight, meaning you can move it around with ease.
The device is only 3.3 x 8 x 12.9 inches in size and weighs merely 5.1 lbs, much smaller and lighter than many other espresso machines. It is available in an aesthetic pure white color that will go perfectly with any kitchen interior.
If you are a fan of Lungo and Espresso, this machine has these two programmable espresso recipes and prepares them as per your taste. It prepares fantastic quality espresso with its 19-bar pressure pump that grinds the coffee pod finely. Within 30 seconds, the water will be hot enough to whip out the perfect mug in no time.
This mini Nespresso Essenza espresso machine also tries its level best to avoid environmental impact, and if you are an environmentalist at heart, you won’t have to worry about that issue. The Nespresso Essenza mini espresso machine will launch its eco-mode in only 3 minutes and will automatically switch off after 9 minutes of use.
To top it off, this mini espresso machine is compact enough to be very easy to clean regularly. Its water tank is removable, so it can easily be cleaned frequently enough to be hygienic. In short, the Nespresso Essenza Mini espresso machine is a power-packed yet compact device that is ideal for those who like to stick to their kind of coffee.
3. Nespresso D40-US-BK-NE Inissia Espresso Maker, Black
This espresso machine is another one of the surprisingly compact devices in the market. If you want to get yourself an espresso machine to launch your day with a quick fix espresso but don’t have space in your kitchen to fit a full-size espresso maker, this is just the thing for you.
Its diverse range of colors means that you will indeed find a product that matches your aesthetic sense and your kitchen interior. Interestingly, with every product, you get a set of 16 capsules, each with its unique aroma. Try out these to find the espresso that satisfies your palette.
The device also makes sure to save energy with its energy-saving mode, ensuring that you don’t land yourself a hefty bill. The machine switches off automatically after 9 minutes of inactivity. Its folding drip tray drops automatically when you remove your mug and catches any extra drops, thus preventing mess.
This Inissia Espresso maker has two programmable coffee types; Espresso and Lungo. The efficient machine takes barely any time to warm up. After clicking the button, in no more than 25 seconds, the water is ready. When you are in dire need of espresso early in the morning, you will get hassle-free espresso in no time!
The water tank is removable and thus very easy to clean. It has a capacity of 0.7L that can make as many as 9 cups in one go without requiring a refill. The espresso machine is very easy to maintain and convenient to use, indeed.
4. Keurig K-Cafe Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker, Latte Maker, and Cappuccino Maker
Keurig K-Café Single coffee maker is super easy to understand and control. Simply insert a K-cup pod and use the simple button controls to whip yourself a fantastic latte, cappuccino, or coffee. The process is continuous, without any waiting time for heating the water.
K-Café Single Serve coffee maker has a large 60oz water reservoir; its large capacity allows you to make as many as 6 cups before needing to refill. Its energy-saving auto-off feature will cut down on your bills; it shuts down automatically 2 hours after the last mug.
Another exciting feature that makes this espresso maker unique is its travel mug accommodation. It can hold a travel mug up to 7.2 inches tall. In terms of travel friendliness, it also has an adjustment feature that allows it to work even at high altitudes (less than 5000 feet)
If you have a hard time tracking and remembering when to clean the machine, Keurig K-case coffee maker gives a brewer maintenance reminder that reminds you it is time to descale the machine. The descaling will prevent calcium deposit build-up.
Its frother is dishwasher safe, so you can clean it quickly without worrying about damaging the interior. The frother can froth anything from fresh milk, soy, and almond to skim milk, so whatever your preference, you can get a frothy, creamy, and delicious mug of espresso instantly.
The item weighs 13.21 pounds and is 17.32 x 14.17 x 14.41 inches, a size big enough to have a good storage capacity and support the all-important features, and small enough not to require too much space in the kitchen. This super-automatic espresso maker has several additional exciting features on top of the necessary.
You may also check: Keurig K50 vs K55
5. De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine
De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso machine is another fascinating coffee maker with many smart features. Its unique sensor grinding technology will grind the coffee beans precisely and consistently, providing the correct dose of espresso for each coffee mug. Its bean sensor will make sure that they are never short during use.
The grinding is effortless, with a simple lever that you have to pull down to start tamping the coffee grounds at the perfect pressure. You need not go through the hassle of removing the portafilter.
For those who love the espresso at just the right temperature, this espresso maker has an active temperature control system with dual heating, one for coffee extraction and the other for steaming the milk. Thus, you will get your espresso at the perfect temperature every single time!
An interesting new technology is used in this espresso maker for frothing milk. It has a micro-foam frothing feature that creates a rich foam for the perfect cappuccino. You get to select whether you want flat or foamed coffee, and the machine does the rest!
The device requires no heat-up time, so no need to wait anymore when your eyes are barely open. All you need to do is power the machine, grind and tamp the beans, and select your brew of choice.
Another additional feature of this espresso machine is its separate hot water spout that gives hot water for making an Americano or for making tea, without leaving any aftertaste of coffee because the spout is used for water only. You also get a 2-year warranty, which means that this product is durable, reliable, and high-quality.
6. Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine in Black
The Gaggia Brera Super Automatic espresso machine is an aesthetically appealing, user-friendly, and efficient espresso maker relatively well-priced compared to other similar products in the market.
Almost everything other than the frothing is fully automatic. For frothing Lattes and Cappuccinos, you have a Pannarello wand that can also act as a hot water dispenser if you want to make teas or Americanos. This wand is multipurpose and very easy to use.
For those who have trouble understanding complex instructions and settings, this espresso maker is highly user-friendly with simple button control. The best part is its quick heating time and effective brewing and steaming.
It can manage both ground and whole coffee beans, so no matter what you prefer, this espresso maker has got you covered. The machine is made of durable stainless steel and is the single-boiler type.
The water reservoir and the dreg box are pull-out types at the front of the device, making them very easy to access when using. The brew group is removable, so frequent and regular rinsing will be no hassle. The Gaggia Brera Super-automatic espresso maker is perfect for anyone who loves a consistent and customized cup of espresso.
7. Saeco Xelsis Super Automatic Espresso Machine
The Saeco Xelsis Super-automatic espresso machine is the supreme espresso maker for die-hard fans of coffee, for those who have an exquisite taste in espresso. It can make as many as 15 different coffee drinks ranging from Americanos and Flat white to Latte macchiatos and espresso doppio; you name it, and this machine can whip it up in no time!
The device can support as many as 6 customizable user profiles so every family member can customize and save their type of espresso. Indeed, consistency is the key for coffee lovers.
Its high-quality ceramic grinders are not only durable but also ensure effective grinding without any risk of overheating the machine. The efficient grinding will extract the best flavors and aromas.
Interestingly, the clean-up mechanism is also entirely automatic! You can enjoy your freshly brewed coffee without worrying about the regular maintenance of the device. The HygieneSteam function will clean the milk circuit thoroughly with steam from a spout.
The AquaClean Filter is another additional feature that makes this machine stand out. It cleans and purifies the water, improving the quality of your espresso tenfold. Surprisingly, this highly efficient device can make as many as 5000 cups without requiring descaling.
This espresso maker is the ultimate machine that has all the right features and more. With just a little additional money, you are guaranteed ultimate convenience.
Things to Look In a Super-Automatic Espresso Machine
If you have the money to spare and the heart to invest in an item that will enhance your life. In that case, the next big hurdle to cross is browsing through your options and wisely deciding which espresso machine to buy. Before you begin to look at the specs and features, decide on what you are looking for in the machine. Do you need an inbuilt milk foamer? Do you have the space it would require? What style do you prefer? In short, look through the following factors when deciding:
Functions
When looking at the functions that the super-automatic espresso machine can perform, keep in mind your preferences.
1. Pre-Programmer and Personalized Coffees
Every product in the market today has a key feature that users run after. For an automatic espresso machine, it is usually the type of pre-set coffee it can make. However, you may need to think wisely before you invest loads in a machine that can make 10 various pre-set coffees when you only ever drink cappuccino.
Does your family really need many user profiles, or can you make do with fewer? When putting in your hard-earned money, make sure to spend more on features you truly want.
2. Boiler System
An espresso machine can either have a single or a dual heating system. The difference between the two is how long you need to wait once you have started the boiler. A dual heating system can prepare the steam in about 10 seconds. The single boiler takes nearly 50 seconds. So if you are cranky and out-of-patience in the morning, you would prefer the dual boiler.
3. Automatic Milk Steaming
While most super-automatic espresso machines automatically froth and steam the milk, in others, you need to use a traditional steam wand to achieve the results. Again, if you don’t possess the patience to do it yourself, get yourself a machine with an inbuilt heating and frothing system.
4. Can It Make Two Milk Beverages At A Time?
Some machines are more suitable than others in commercial high-volume work environments and for large families because they can make two beverages simultaneously. This function is a plus point for most customers expecting such a load, but it comes at an additional cost. So if you are looking for an espresso machine for your home or for personal use, you can do without this function.
Space Usage In The Kitchen
An automatic espresso machine is certainly not something you can just buy and find space for later. You would need to keep in mind the amount of kitchen space you can devote to the machine before getting one. Normally, it is difficult to find the right machine that can fit ideally in your kitchen without compromising the accessibility to other appliances and making it hard to reach and operate.
Ensure that you can reach the water tank, the bean hopper, pull out the dreg drawer, and work with the drip tray. In addition to all that, you also need a nearby power socket.
Specifications
Specifications like the drink options, user interface, milk preparation system, water tank capacity, temperature control settings, and average heat-up time. The milk preparation system will determine whether milk heating and frothing are automatic or manual. Look through the specs thoroughly if you do not wish to end up with a device that falls short of your requirements.
Features
Don’t go in blind when it comes to the features of an automatic espresso machine. You should know about the following features before you jump in:
1. Grinder: the grinder grinds your beans. The grinder may use blades or burrs. For more even grinding, burrs are the better option.
2. Single Or Double Shot Espressos: while most espresso machines you find will have both settings, do check to make sure. A double shot drink will have more espresso and will be stronger.
3. Steam Wand: in machines that do not have an automatic frothing and heating system, the steam wand heats the milk and creates microfoam.
4. Cup Warmer: nothing better than brewing hot beverages in a steaming hot cup, right? Some machines also have a cup warmer at the top.
5. Milk Reservoir: an automatic milk foaming machine will have a milk reservoir. If your automatic espresso machine has one of these, you need to ensure that the reservoir and the pipes are kept clean.
Other Factors
1. Durability
Durability matters more than any other feature. Obviously, if you are investing money, you want the machine to last. Most professional espresso machines can work the entire day without heating up.
2. Ease of cleaning
The easier it is to disassemble and reassemble the machine, the easier it will be to clean. After every use, you should wash the water receptacle, frothing equipment, and cups.
3. Aesthetics
All things aside, how the machine contributes to the aesthetics of your kitchen is also an important consideration. The spout placement, cord length, color, etc., are the contributing factors you should consider.
How Does This Miracle Machine Work?
No wonder that an automatic espresso machine seems like a blessing for coffee addicts. A device that can whip up a mouth-watering espresso mug in no time must have a miraculous working, right? Well, it is not that complicated. All automatic espresso machines use a motorized pump that generates pressure.
Understanding The Pathway
To The Pump: Once the water has been added to the water reservoir, understanding the machine is not that hard. Where the water goes, the magic happens! The first stop is the pump, where the water is pressurized. A vibratory pump, one that uses a piston, is more common in espresso machines meant for home use than the rotary pump that uses a motor and a spinning disk.
On To The Boiler: the water, now pressurized, is moved into the osier where it is heated by the heating element. It gets the water to the right temperature, which is usually 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Off To The Group Head: this is where the real magic happens. At the filter basket, the hot and pressurized water is combined with the coffee grounds. The group head is responsible for how good or bad your coffee tastes.
The Steam Wand: for making lattes or cappuccinos in espresso makers that do not have automatic heating or frothing mechanisms, the steam wand comes to the rescue! The steam wand forces steam into the milk to warm it using pressure and use air to create the foam.
How Is A Simple Coffee Maker Different From An Automatic Espresso Machine?
A simple manual coffee maker is much more complicated to work with than an automatic espresso machine. The manual coffee machine gives you greater control over the process as everything is done manually. You use the built-in steam and wand to heat the milk to a temperature you prefer and a consistency. You can adjust the extraction times as well. In all, you are the true barista of this mug of espresso.
On the other hand, a fully automatic coffee machine promises ease and speed. It makes exceptional quality espresso almost all on its own. The grinding, milk frothing, and extraction are all automated in most espresso machines. You control the process with a simple touch of a button.
Why Do You Need To Own An Automatic Espresso Machine?
An automatic espresso machine provides a quick morning fix for people who cannot begin the day without a shot of caffeine. By including an espresso machine in your morning ritual, you will be freed from the hassle of brewing your own coffee when your eyes are barely open.
On top of that, you get to explore a whole new world of coffee instead of the narrow range you can whip up on your own. This variety will also make you a great host! What could be better than being served a tantalizing cup of hot espresso of a variety that the guest may never have tasted?
Pros And Cons
When buying an espresso machine, the options available are vast, but the super-automatic espresso machine is the latest technology. This is perhaps the most convenient and interesting of all devices that can whip up a good espresso. The customization that most super-automatic espresso machines can offer is another benefit that makes it different from the manual or semi automatic varieties.
On the other hand, however, there is no doubt that such features will come at a cost. The cheaper varieties of super-automatic espresso machines often are not as flexible. The price is often a deterrent factor for most potential customers. Still, suppose you genuinely value a customized mug of brewing hot espresso each morning. In that case, the investment will surely be worth it.
Difference
As the name suggests, the difference between the super-automatic and manual espresso maker is the amount of ‘work’ that the machine does and the amount that you are responsible for. The super-automatic espresso machine is certainly more convenient because you don’t need to do the work; the grinding, frothing, and heating are done automatically in most machines. Both the manual and super-automatic espresso machines can make a delicious mug but the super-automatic also allows you to use top-grade super-automatics that let you adjust and calibrate your coffee.
In addition to that, another major difference between the two is that the automatic espresso machine is easier to maintain in terms of clean-up. The machine dispenses just the right amount of coffee and water, with no loose coffee grounds or water spills to worry about.
FAQs
Why are espresso machines expensive?
The technology involved, particularly in the super-automatic espresso machine, is complicated. Brands design these machines in a way to ensure precision, with reliable temperatures and pressures.
How is a manual espresso machine different from an automatic espresso machine?
With the manual espresso machine, the user has to generate the pressure himself while the automatic espresso machine generates pressure by a motorized pump.
How does the working of a semi-automatic, fully automatic, and super-automatic espresso machine differ?
The semiautomatic does not control the timing. The fully automatic machine, unlike the semi automatic, controls the flow using a flow meter. The super-automatic is the most convenient, with the machine doing everything from grinding to frothing.
What is meant by the term “bars” for espresso machines?
The term bar is used for bars of pressure needed to produce a good espresso shot. Various types of espresso machines have different mechanisms for generating pressure.
What pressure is ideal for a good espresso shot?
According to most baristas, 9 bars is the key to the perfect espresso. 9 bars means a pressure 9 times that of the atmospheric pressure.
What is a steam espresso machine?
As the name suggests, this type of espresso machine uses steam to generate the pressure needed for making espresso. Water is heated until it is hot enough to generate steam in a boiler.
What is the purpose of two spouts at the bottom?
Porta-filters is the type of espresso machine that has spouts that allow the espresso to flow into the mugs. Two spouts can brew shots for two mugs at a time.
What is the best type of coffee beans for espresso?
It really depends on personal preference what type of beans are the best for you, but most espresso lovers fog or medium or dark roast beans that are rich in flavour and low in acidity.
How should I maintain my espresso machine?
Regular cleaning and descaling is a necessity. Cleaning once a week is the ideal routine if your espresso maker is in daily use. This can be a simple back flush with water, with an occasional high maintenance regime.
How often should one descale the espresso maker?
The frequency of descaling is often recommended by the manufacturer. The newer models indicate when descaling is required.