Super Automatic Espresso Machines
Buyers Guide

We are often asked, "Which is the best machine?" and the only real answer that can be given to that is, "For what?".  There is no 'best' machine.  Some machines are better at certain things than others and some are just easier to use for some people, but harder to use for others.  There is only the best machine for you.  It's different for everyone.  That is why we have provided the following list of options.  Please think about how you want to use the machine based on the following items.  Make a list of the features that sound useful to you and of the ones that you absolutely must have.  This will help you to narrow down your choices.  See our Search By Features to select the features you're looking for and find out which machines have them.

Grinder By-Pass

Steam Feature

If you plan to use the steam feature frequently to steam up milk for Cappuccino, Latte or hot chocolate, consider the delay time between brewing espresso and steaming milk. Most single heating system versions experience about a delay time of up to one minute before you can start steaming milk. When switching back from steaming to brewing, some models need to be flushed first before you can make another espresso. You may want to look at dual heating system versions or rapid steam features. This will reduce or eliminate the delay time.

Steam Wand - As pictured above, it's a piece that is attached to the machine and releases steam from the tip.  Put milk into a frothing pitcher and steam it manually with this device.  It takes some practice to get proficient with it, but you will have more control over the temperature and the quality of the foam with this method. Always be sure to wipe off the steam wand with a clean, damp cloth right after using it and flush a little water through it to make sure no milk will dry on it.

Automatic Frothing Devices - Usually a device that connects to the machine where the steam wand would be and has a tube protruding from it.  You put the end of the tube into any container of milk (some machines come with a milk holding container) and, when you turn it on, the milk will be sucked through the tube and foamed inside the attachment before falling through a spout in the attachment into your cup.  This method is very easy to use, but the milk temperature tends to be lower and it is more difficult to customize the ratio of foam and steamed milk to your liking. The cleaning is also a bit more complicated with this as there are internal parts in contact with the milk so always rinse water through it after using and disassemble it each day to give it a thorough cleaning.

Coffee Capacity

Coffee Strength

Brewing Pressure

Some models also let you adjust how much pressure you are brewing under. This will affect the taste and will also affect the crema your espresso will produce. Don’t think that this feature means you will always get lots of crema however, many variables will determine your level of crema such as how freshly roasted your beans are, the blend and type of beans and your grind. An example is the Talea line of Saeco.

Digital Options

The most basic machines use lights and symbols to tell you what the machine is doing or to alert you to things like the water tank being empty or the waste container needs to be emptied.  Sometimes, one flashing light may mean a few different things and so you will have to investigate until you find the problem.

Temperature Control

Clock Features

Touchscreen vs. Push Buttons

Removable Brew Groups

Automatic Maintenance