The decision of selecting a coffee machine can appear to be never-ending.
If you want to have control over the brewing process and still enjoy high-quality coffee at home, there is no alternative to a semi-automatic espresso machine.
When comparing the best semi-automatic espresso machines, what factors should you take into consideration?
Today, we will be reviewing home espresso machines and commercial semi-automatic machines. Most commercial semi-automatics are difficult to use, heavy, and bulky, especially if you haven’t mastered them yet. However, we will not be focusing on these types of machines in today’s review. Home semi-automatics offer a wider range of styles. Some even include built-in grinders, similar to super-automatic machines. Additionally, certain machines utilize a pod-based or capsule-based system to produce pressurized espresso. Ultimately, the most important factor is finding a machine that provides the perfect balance of convenience and control for your specific needs. In order to make your life simpler, we will be evaluating machines in all of these styles and more.
When comparing single-boiler systems to dual-boiler systems, a semi-automatic espresso machine with a single boiler has limitations. It requires you to brew and steam separately, meaning you have to pull your shot of espresso first and then wait for the steaming temperature to be reached before adding froth and foam. On the other hand, a dual-boiler system allows you to pull shots and steam simultaneously, making it ideal for high-demand situations. The twin boilers operate independently, ensuring they do not interfere with each other, and maintaining a stable temperature in each boiler.
The portafilter is a small basket on your espresso machine where you place your grinds for brewing. Commercial portafilters are typically 58mm in size, while those on home machines are slightly smaller. Pressurized portafilters are recommended for beginners as they allow you to create crema easily. On the contrary, non-pressurized portafilters brew coffee directly into your cup and are more affected by the grind size. It is important to finely grind your coffee beans when making espresso. Capsule and pod-based systems function similarly to individual portafilters as they contain single servings.
When looking for the best semi-automatic espresso machines, considering ease of use may be the ultimate factor. Consider the desired level of control and the inclusion of presets for convenient coffee-making with the press of a button.
If you lack a coffee grinder at home, it is worth considering semi-automatic machines that come with an incorporated burr grinder, allowing you to have a full bean-to-cup experience while still retaining some control.
Semiautomatic vs Automatic
The basic machine type is the foundation of every espresso machine. On the market today, you’ll mostly come across two options: semiautomatic or automatic models.
Irrespective of the choice made, it will significantly impact the daily functioning of the entity. In short, this decision will determine the level of ease in using it for extracting shots.
Among the two options, the automatic espresso machine is the simpler one. The process involves the barista grinding the espresso, tamping it, putting the portafilter in the machine, and commencing the brewing process.
An automatic espresso machine, equipped with pre-programmed settings, will automatically stop brewing at the optimal time, so there won’t be a need for them to stand by the machine carefully timing the shot.
Semiautomatic machines require a bit more involvement from the barista. After the portafilter is positioned, the barista will have to begin and stop the brewing process at the times they consider appropriate.
This is why many enthusiasts choose semiautomatic setups, as they allow for maximized control over the progress of each shot. However, it is important to note that the quality of the shots is largely dependent on the individual taking them.
Direct-Connect vs Pour-Over
Having water is essential for making espresso because without it, you cannot accomplish the task. Additionally, if you require a large number of shots, it becomes crucial to have a reliable method of consistently providing water to your machine.
There are two main methods by which espresso machines ensure they have enough water: direct-connect and pour-over systems. The names of both systems are quite easily understandable.
When using a direct-connect system, the machine can automatically refill itself from the water line, without requiring any assistance from employees.
The main benefit of this is its user-friendliness and time-saving aspect. Nonetheless, its major disadvantage lies in its immobility due to its connection.
The alternative to pour-over machines are machines that require users to pour water in manually when the reservoir is running low.
Your employees will need to pay close attention to the water tank and be trained on refilling it, as a result of this. However, there is a significant benefit for certain individuals – mobility.
A pour-over machine can be used for various locations since it is not connected to a water line, making it an ideal choice for coffee carts and other mobile businesses.
Heat Exchange vs Double Boiler
Finally, your machine’s boiler should receive your attention as it determines the speed of drink preparation and milk steaming duration.
Double or dual boiler designs have two boilers, one for steaming-temperature water and another for brewing-temperature water.
These designs can effortlessly brew and steam drinks one after another, owing to their inherent strength. However, due to the requirement of heating two boilers, their initial warming up time can be longer and they can also be more costly.
Heat exchange boilers, also referred to as HX boilers, consist of a single boiler where brewing water is delivered to the group head through a tube, while the steaming water is maintained separate.
A heat exchange boiler is generally more budget-friendly and heats up more quickly. However, when compared to a dual boiler machine, its steaming speed may be slower, depending on the size of the boilers being considered.
The 4 Best Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines
Breville Barista Express
The main attraction of this espresso machine is that it offers the control typically provided by semi-automatics, while also providing the bean-to-cup experience of fully automatics, resulting in a advantageous situation for you.
The onboard grinder dispenses the correct amount of coffee directly into the commercial-grade portafilter for your espresso or double espresso. You have the option to adjust the grind size to your preference – a fine grind is ideal for espresso.
The coffee pre-infusion stage involves applying low pressure before increasing the pump pressure, allowing the water to flow through the coffee grounds with the necessary high pressure for extracting excellent espresso. The PID temperature control guarantees that the water is delivered at temperatures ranging from 190F to 196F, which is ideal for achieving authentic shots of espresso.
If you develop a preference for longer coffees, you can employ the steam wand to manually froth and steam your milk.
The build quality and lifespan of the Barista Express are impressive, but Breville’s customer service does not match up. However, overall, you are getting a top-notch semi-automatic espresso machine that offers a perfect balance of control and convenience.
Mr Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker
We will now introduce the first of a series of submissions from Mr Coffee which comes in the form of this clever espresso and cappuccino maker.
This brand has a history of more than 60 years since they introduced the first drip coffee machine for home use. Since then, Mr Coffee has been manufacturing affordable coffee machines in various styles while ensuring that you don’t have to sacrifice quality to get a good deal.
With consummate ease, you can effortlessly switch between espresso, latte, and cappuccino using the push-button functionality.
Let Mr Coffee do the hard work for you with an automatic milk reservoir, eliminating the need to worry about the proportions of foam and milk.
You can retain complete control while enjoying the convenience of push-button operation by making personalized coffees using this machine.
Although the majority of user reviews for this espresso and cappuccino machine are generally positive, it falls short in terms of its build quality and longevity. Therefore, if you have a busy kitchen with high demands, it might be worthwhile to consider some of the more durable machines that we have reviewed.
In order to start enjoying high-quality espresso at home without spending too much money or having to make room for a large commercial unit, it is important to first prime this machine before using it for the first time.
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine
With Breville’s extensive range of excellent coffee machines, how does the Barista Express fare in comparison?
The foremost consideration here is the convenience of use. You will have access to a straightforward touchscreen that provides all your preset options for espresso and coffee whenever needed.
By thinking sequentially, rephrase the given text without adding or removing any information while keeping the meaning intact. Moreover, it is possible to personalize a maximum of 8 preferences, allowing each individual in the household to conveniently enjoy their preferred coffee simply by pressing a button.
The integrated conical burr grinder enables a genuine bean-to-cup experience, where the simple process involves loading your preferred fresh coffee beans, and the highly efficient dose control guarantees a measure of coffee between 19g and 22g.
The robust pump onboard, rated at 19 bars, will be appreciated by espresso lovers because it provides ample pressure for the best extraction. Additionally, during the crucial pre-infusion stage, the lower pressure ensures that your espresso will have a rich and smooth taste, similar to how Italians enjoy it.
By incorporating an automatic milk frother, you have the added advantage of being able to indulge in a range of lengthier coffees by utilizing the concentrated espresso as an ideal base for these velvety beverages.
The main highlight of this product is its extremely fast heat-up time, which allows you to have coffee ready in just a matter of seconds.
This espresso machine is exceptional and is manufactured by a trustworthy brand, although a few customers have expressed dissatisfaction regarding the durability of the product as it ages.
Nuova Simonelli Aurelia Wave Semiautomatic Espresso Machine
The Nuova Simonelli Aurelia Wave Semiautomatic espresso machine is the most recent version of Nuova Simonelli Aurelia machines, intended for medium to large cafes, specialty coffee shops, barista competition locations, and medium restaurants. Its purpose is to provide user-friendliness, versatility, and precision, enabling your establishment to serve the highest quality espresso and milk-based drinks.
The soft infusion system of the Aurelia Wave is famous for its ability to produce consistent and flavorful espresso, even when the tamping is not perfect. The manual dosing controls provide baristas with complete control over each shot, enabling customization to meet customer expectations. Additionally, the machine features an ergonomic design, energy efficiency upgrades, and a user-friendly interface, ensuring that baristas can use it comfortably and efficiently.
The Aurelia Wave Semiautomatic has several key features.
- LCD Display: A high-resolution LCD screen that allows users to access machine functions and settings easily.
- Soft Infusion System: It ensures consistent and rich espresso, counteracting poor tamping practices.
- Manual Dosing Controls: Provides full control over each shot for customizing espresso extraction to meet customer requests.
- Raised Group Heads: Accommodates a variety of cup sizes, enabling baristas to brew directly into taller cups.
- Reverse Mirror: This backplate doubles as a mirror which helps baristas monitor hard-to-see angles of the espresso during brewing.
- Cool Touch Wands: These steam wands stay cool, preventing burns and residue buildup, making them safe and easy to clean.
- Push Pull Steam: User-friendly levers that reduce strain on the wrists, providing added comfort for the barista.
- Surface LEDs: Efficient workspace lighting that illuminates all the details of baristas’ work, helping them deliver better quality drinks.
- Bar Pump Gauge: Displays the pressure built by the pump during extraction, providing vital information for baristas to improve their process.
- Automated Cleanings: The machine offers automated cleanings for group heads, saving time for baristas during closing routines.
- Power Saving Options: The Aurelia Wave is environmentally friendly with a smaller footprint compared to other espresso machine models.
- Water Level Indicator: Easy to check the boiler water levels anytime, ensuring that everything is working as it should.
The option to order in custom colors gives you the flexibility to choose the perfect Nuova Simonelli Aurelia Wave Semiautomatic espresso machine to suit your business requirements. Invest in this espresso machine in either 2-group or 3-group configurations and elevate your establishment’s coffee experience.