Automatic machines are the easiest to use because the dosing is done by the machine with a touch of a button. This type is more expensive and doesn’t leave room for customization.
Semi-automatic machines allow for control when the brew cycle begins and ends but takes skill to make perfect shots each time. They’re also cheaper than automatic machines. Manual machines are rare to find, take time to make the espresso, and require high skill to use them.
The user starts the brew cycle and applies proper pressure using a lever.

Boilers are an important component of an espresso machine. The type of boiler you use impacts how quickly you’re able to make drinks. In your search, you’ll see three different types: single, dual, and heat exchange (HX).

Single boilers use one boiler for steaming and brewing. This makes the machine slower at producing drinks because you can’t do both at the same time. These systems have a reduced heat-up time because only one boiler is used. They’re usually inexpensive too.

Dual boilers have one boiler for steaming and another for brewing the water. This allows for faster drink-making because you can perform both actions at the same time. These systems are the most powerful but have a longer heat-up time once turned on. This happens because both boilers need to heat up. They’re usually more expensive than other system types.

Heat exchange boilers use one boiler like a single boiler, but it’s specially designed to allow both steaming and brewing simultaneously. It siphons the brewing water through a tube to the group head and stores steaming water separately. Since you can steam both together, it allows for quicker drink-making, especially lattes. However, keep in mind you’ll need to flush the group head each time before pulling shots to ensure the brewing water is at the correct temperature.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Espresso Machine

Once you’ve decided which machine type and boiler system works for you, you can start the buying process. One factor to consider is your budget. For example, if you have a tight budget, you might want to avoid a dual-boiler, heat exchange boiler, and a manual or automatic machine. They’re less economical than a single boiler and semi-automatic machine. On the other hand, if your budget is limitless, you will want a dual-boiler or heat exchange system with an automatic machine. How fast you want to make drinks will factor into the budget too.

Your experience probably matters the most when it comes to an espresso machine. However, this will depend on if you want and have the time to learn how to make the drinks. If you’re someone that just wants an espresso or latte for your morning commute, an automatic machine with a dual-boiler system will be your best option. This will take a short time to make the drink and only require you to push a button to make it.

If you’re someone that wants to experiment or you’re already experienced in how to make drinks, a manual or semi-automatic machine will work better for you. Keep in mind that you will lack customization with an automatic machine. It might be worthwhile to learn how to make drinks if customization is important to you.

The appearance of the machine might matter to you. Some people have their kitchens themed and want to continue the look to make it match. For example, you might have a kitchen full of steel appliances and need a machine to match, so it doesn’t look out of place. You might even decide you want your machine to stand out from the other appliances in your kitchen. In this case, a manual machine or machines that come in different colors might suit you.

While most people would prefer a home kitchen espresso machine, there are coffee aficionados that would prefer a commercial machine. Kind in mind, commercial machines are often larger and cost much more than one designed for home use.

In short, you want to consider your budget, appearance, and features of the machine before you purchase. You don’t want to spend money on an espresso machine that you won’t use.