There are three main espresso machine types, semi-automatic, automatic, and super automatic, and each type has a different level of oversight. To find the best espresso machine for your business, you will need to consider how often you'll be making espresso, how much control you want over the brewing process, and how trained your staff is in using an espresso machine.
Semi-automatic espresso machines are the most popular espresso machine type in specialty coffee shops because of the full control it gives baristas over the brewing variables. These units have a pump that drives the water through the grouphead, but an experienced barista is still needed to grind the coffee beans, tamp the grounds, control the extraction time, and steam the milk. The authenticity of the process often achieves the highest-quality flavor.
Output: 180 to 720 cups per hour
Best for: coffee shops, cafes, and any other establishment where espresso-based drinks are the main menu item
Automatic espresso machines also have a pump that drives the water through the grouphead, but they go a step further than semi-automatic machines in that the machine also automates the extraction time. This means that a barista only needs to press the button to brew and the unit will control how long the shot pulls for either volumetrically or via an internal timer. These systems do not automatically grind, dose, and tamp the coffee, but some do include a pre-infusion feature to optimize tamping.
Output: 32 to 720 cups per hour
Best for: coffee shops, cafes, bakeries, and restaurants
Super automatic espresso machines are “bean-to-cup” machines, meaning they include a built-in grinder and auto-frothing programs to control the espresso production from start to finish via a 1-step or 2-step process. These labor-reducing machines feature intuitive controls and often come with programmable menu settings.
Output: 40 to 180 cups per hour
Best for: high-volume coffee shops, cafes, kiosks, and restaurants
In addition to choosing the type of espresso machine, you will also need to choose your machine's water source: direct connect or pourover.
Direct connect espresso machines have a dedicated water line, so they have a constant water supply. Since plumbing is involved, these units will require professional installation.
Pourover espresso machines have a water reservoir that staff will need to fill when water levels are low. These units do not require any costly plumbing or professional installation.
To use an espresso machine properly, it is important to know all the working parts. Our diagram below will breakdown the anatomy of an espresso machine, where the different parts can be found on a unit, and what their purpose serves for making espresso.
Dark roasts are the best coffee beans to use for espresso. They have a full-bodied, rich taste and bold aroma that pairs better with milk than lighter roasts. Plus, dark roasts have a higher content of natural oils, which helps produce crema, the creamy top layer on espresso that gives it a fuller, fresher taste.
Some coffee bean manufacturers sell espresso beans or blends that are roasted and ground specifically with making espresso in mind. However, all coffee beans can be used to make espresso, and espresso beans and espresso blends can be used to brew coffee.
In addition to choosing the best espresso maker, ensure you have all the equipment and accessories you need to craft specialty coffee drinks!
We have a wide selection of commercial espresso machines from different brands to ensure you can find the best unit for your menu and price point. Be sure to check out our commercial espresso machine reviews as well!
The Italian-based company Nuova Simonelli focuses on producing premium espresso machines and grinders.
Manufactured in the U.S., Astra espresso machines are reliable and stand up to heavy-duty use.
With over 100 years of fine Italian craftsmanship, LaCimbali creates top-of-the-line coffee and espresso machines.
Check out Grindmaster-Cecilware for easy-to-operate automatic and super-automatic espresso machines.
For bean-to-cup convenience, Bunn espresso machines feature intuitive controls for easy operation.
Combining user-friendliness and durability with affordability, Estella Caffe espresso machines are reliable.
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