I’ve written countless espresso machine reviews over the years, as well as a pretty comprehensive article on how to choose an espresso machine. However, I recently realised that I’ve never published a comprehensive guide to the different types of espresso machines.
So, if you’re struggling to figure out whether it’s a super automatic, semi-automatic or manual espresso machine that’ll best fit your needs, you’ve come to the right place.
I’ll tell you everything you need to know, as well as recommending a few of my favorite models in each category. Heck, I’ve even summarized the story of how the espresso machine came to be for all you history nerds.
So, without further ado, let’s get right to it!
Table of Contents
A Brief History of the Espresso Machine
We can trace the history of the espresso machine back to France in the late 19th century, when inventors created a machine that used steam power to force water through a bed of ground coffee. While this wasn’t an actual espresso machine, the seeds of an idea had been planted.
As I’m sure you know, it was the Italians who took the idea and ran with it. And the driving factor was figuring out how to quickly serve coffee to a growing number of workers in rapidly expanding urban centers. In 1884, Angelo Moriondo was granted a patent for a steam-driven coffee device that could make coffee on demand under around 1-2 bars of pressure. Again, this wasn’t a true espresso machine, but it paved the way for the technology that would soon emerge.
A few years later, Luigi Bezzara and Desiderio Pavoni presented the first commercial espresso machine at the World Fair in Milan. The Tipo Gigante had group heads, portafilters, a pressure release valve and even a steam wand. Sure, its pressure wasn’t high enough to make anything other than moka pot-style coffee, but this was the birth of a revolution in coffee.
After World War II, our friend Achille Gaggia took it upon himself to invent a machine wherein piston levers replaced steam pressure to force water through the coffee. This led to the standard 1-ounce (30-milliliter) shot size and also increased brew pressure to around 9 bars. What’s more, espresso now displayed an aromatic layer of crema on top.
The last great leap forward was the invention of the electric pump-driven espresso machine, which came in the shape of the Faema E61. This laid the foundation for all the espresso machines we use today. Of course, many more technological advances followed, including digital PID controllers, timers and integrated scales. Oh, and let’s not forget super-automatic machines, which took things to a whole new level!
Different Types of Espresso Machines
Now that we have some context, let’s take a closer look at the three main types of espresso machines available today. Incidentally, I’ll touch on commercial espresso machines throughout this guide, but I’ll mainly focus on the types of espresso machines used by home baristas.
Coffeeness Medium Roast Espresso
Well-balanced with chocolate & hazelnut notes
Freshly roasted in Brooklyn
Very low acidity
Manual Espresso Machines
As it happens, manual lever espresso machines never went away. In fact, if you’ve ready my guide to the best manual espresso machines, you’ll know that they’re actually having a moment right now. Sure, modern lever models have come a long way from Achille Gaggia’s invention, but the fundamentals remain the same.
So why are manual espresso machines still popular, when you can buy a machine that’ll do all the hard work for you? Well, it’s all about the fact that when you’re physically pulling a shot, you’re in complete control of everything. You must rely on your own muscle power to generate the requisite pressure, and the opportunities for playing with pre-infusion and pressure profiling are endless.
To that end, manual lever machines are prized by true espresso aficionados. Don’t get me wrong, learning to master a manual espresso machine takes time and real dedication. Still, many home lever machines come with pressure gauges and some electric components. Overall, using a manual espresso machine offers a hands-on approach to espresso preparation that’s completely unique and very rewarding.
Let’s take a closer look at three of my current favorites:
La Pavoni Professional
A Great Way to Up Your Espresso Game
La Pavoni Professional
A beautiful manual-lever espresso machine
Heats up in under 10 minutes
Sleek design
Small footprint
Comes with a boiler and pressure gauge
Must cool down before water can be refilled
May overheat after some time
| La Pavoni Professional | |
| Manufacturer | |
|---|---|
| Model number | |
| Product category | |
| Housing material | |
| Color options | |
| Milk frother | |
| User interface | |
| App | |
| User profiles | |
| Portafilter size | |
| Tamping | |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | |
| Number of boilers | |
| Pump pressure | |
| Maximum cup height | |
| Grinder | |
| Grind adjustment levels | |
| Bean hopper capacity | |
| Specialty drinks | 0 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | |
| Weight | |
| Dimensions | |
| Warranty | |
| Notes | |
| Current price on Amazon | $1,202.57 |
| All specifications | |
La Pavoni produces a whole range of manual lever machines, but my favorite is the La Pavoni PC 16. Costing $1,202.57, the La Pavoni Professional represents a substantial financial investment, especially given the fact that you could purchase a very nice prosumer espresso machine for less. What’s more, you’ll need to invest in the best espresso grinder you can get your hands on if you want to get the best out of this machine.
Featuring an eye-catching design, oodles of chrome and a compact footprint, the La Pavoni Professional is truly stunning. Plus, it features a gauge for measuring boiler pressure and an electric heater. Heck, this manual machine even comes with a powerful manual steam wand. Thanks to its large capacity, the PC 16 is capable of producing 16 double espresso shots with a full boiler. Still, it’s a finicky machine that takes a lot of practice to master.
See Also: La Pavoni Professional Review
Flair Pro 3
Better than the original
Flair Pro 3
A fantastic manual espresso maker
Makes superb espresso
Great fun to use
Shot mirror and pressure gauge included
Lightweight and portable
Steep learning curve
| Flair Pro 3 | |
| Manufacturer | Flair Espresso |
|---|---|
| Model number | PRO 3 |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Black, White |
| Milk frother | None |
| User interface | None |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 46 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | N/A |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 9 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 5.0 in / 12.7 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 1 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | No |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | N/A |
| Weight | 7.0 lb / 3.2 kg |
| Dimensions | 10.0 x 6.3 x 12.5 in |
| Warranty | 5 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: User manual, pressure gauge, dosing cup, dosing collar, portafilter spout, dispersion screen, metal tamper, carrying case |
| Current price on Amazon | $325.00 |
| All specifications | |
The wonderful Flair Pro 3 has no electric components and no milk-steaming capabilities. Rather, this is a truly manual espresso machine. While that means you have to heat your own water as well as preheat the brewing chamber, once you get used to the process it’s not a big deal.
A successor to the original Flair Espresso Maker, the Pro 3 includes a nifty manometer for reading the pressure at the group head. It also comes with a bottomless portafilter, shot mirror and high-quality tamper.
Retailing for $325.00, the Flair Pro 3 isn’t exactly cheap. Still, if you want an elegant and tactile espresso experience, it’s worth every penny. What’s really cool is that this manual espresso maker is easy to disassemble and comes with its own burly travel case. Plus, I’ve made some of the best espresso I’ve ever tasted using the Flair Pro 3.
See Also: Flair Pro 3 Review
WACACO Nanopresso
ideal for travel
WACACO Nanopresso
Lots of convenience in a small package
Compact and portable
Easy to use
Durable
Enough pressure for true espresso
Fantastic design
Lots of small parts
Difficult to dry
| WACACO Nanopresso | |
| Manufacturer | |
|---|---|
| Model number | |
| Product category | |
| Housing material | |
| Color options | |
| Milk frother | |
| User interface | |
| App | |
| User profiles | |
| Portafilter size | |
| Tamping | |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | |
| Number of boilers | |
| Pump pressure | |
| Maximum cup height | |
| Grinder | |
| Grind adjustment levels | |
| Bean hopper capacity | |
| Specialty drinks | 0 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | |
| Weight | |
| Dimensions | |
| Warranty | |
| Notes | |
| Current price on Amazon | $79.90 |
| All specifications | |
The WACACO Nanopresso is a unique manual espresso machine in that it doesn’t have a lever. Rather, this compact device employs an innovative manual pump system to generate the pressure required to extract espresso.
I’ll admit that I was a little dubious about how well this thing would work, but during my testing I was very impressed by its performance. Costing just $79.90, the WACACO Nanopresso is definitely worth the investment if you’re looking for one of the best camping coffee makers out there. It even comes with its own espresso cup, and all components fit neatly within the brewing chamber.
Thanks to its pressurized portafilter, you don’t have to stress too much about dialing in your grind size with this mini marvel. Then again, that means you’ll struggle to get authentic espresso shots. Fortunately, the manufacturer also offers the more professional WACACO Picopresso, which comes with a larger single-wall filter basket.
See Also: WACACO Nanopresso Review
Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines
When most people think of an espresso machine, it’s a semi-automatic that comes to mind. These espresso machines feature electric pumps, water tanks (or a plumbed water supply), group heads with removable portafilters and either touchscreens or knobs and buttons.
The barista is responsible for grinding coffee and dosing the portafilter, as well as manually starting and stopping the espresso extraction. However, these espresso machines regulate brewing pressure and water temperature as well as pre-infusion time. With that said, many of the best home espresso machines allow you to tinker with these settings. What’s more, there’s a growing number of so-called hybrid espresso machines with built-in grinders and even assisted tamping functions. The Breville Barista Touch Impress is a fine example.
Incidentally, a subsection of this type of espresso machine comes in the form of an automatic espresso machine, which relies on volumetric control, stopping the shot automatically. However, it’s often the case that a semi-automatic machine offers this function as an option, and you can always manually start and stop your extraction with an automatic model.
Let’s take a look at three semi-automatic espresso machines at different price points:
Breville Bambino Plus
great starter machine
Breville Bambino Plus
Pint-sized, pint-priced and practical — but not barista quality
Beautiful design with a tiny footprint
Automatic milk frothing with temperature sensor
Good espresso
Very easy to operate
Good value for money
Substandard portafilter
A little too lightweight
| Breville Bambino Plus | |
| Manufacturer | Breville |
|---|---|
| Model number | BES500BSS1BUS1 |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel with plastic parts |
| Color options | Brushed Stainless Steel |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 54 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 64.2 fl oz / 1.9 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 4.5 in / 11.4 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 1 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1560 W |
| Weight | 3.1 lb / 1.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 12.2 x 7.7 x 12.6 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: Tamper, Dosing tool, Stainless steel milk jug, filter baskets, Cleaning supplies, User manual. |
| Current price on Amazon | $499.95 |
| All specifications | |
Regular Coffeeness readers will know that the Breville Bambino Plus is one of my favorite espresso machines. In my opinion, this compact home espresso machine has it all, and won’t break the bank at $499.95.
Of course, you’ll need to invest in a quality grinder to get the best out of the Bambino Plus, but you shouldn’t need to spend more than a couple of hundred bucks. And once you’re all set, this pint-sized marvel will consistently deliver excellent shots of espresso without batting an eyelid.
Featuring a 54mm portafilter and adjustable temperature settings, the Breville Bambino Plus is really easy to use. What’s more, it’s equipped with an automatic milk frother that’s capable of whipping up silky microfoam on demand.
Finally, the Bambino Plus has programmable volumetric control, so you’re in charge of determining your shot size. Alternatively, you can take over and manually stop your shot whenever you’re satisfied.
See Also: Breville Bambino Plus Review
Rancilio Silvia
cult classic
Rancilio Silvia
An exceptional machine
High-quality build
Small footprint
Sleek, minimalist design
Powerful steam wand
Plentiful spare parts
Slow to heat
Steep learning curve
| Rancilio Silvia | |
| Manufacturer | Rancilio |
|---|---|
| Model number | HSD-SILVIA |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Matte Black, Matte White, Stainless Steel |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 67.6 fl oz / 2.0 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 3.0 in / 7.6 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 1 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1100 W |
| Weight | 30.8 lb / 14.0 kg |
| Dimensions | 13.3 x 11.4 x 9.2 in |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Notes | Included Accessories: Coffee scoop, tamper, 2 x filter baskets, user manual. Pod adapter available, sold separately. |
| Current price on Amazon | $995.00 |
| All specifications | |
Available for $995.00, the Rancilio Silvia was released in 1997 and has been delighting espresso hobbyists ever since.
In many ways, this boxy, bare-bones classic is the ultimate home espresso machine. For starters, it looks great and features durable stainless steel construction. What’s more, the Rancilio Silvia is equipped with a commercial 58mm portafilter and a powerful professional steam wand. Best of all, the Rancilio Silvia is a challenging beast that demands precision and patience from the user. So, if you really want to feel like a champion barista, you’ll have to be prepared to put in the work.
The Silvia is a traditional single-boiler workhorse with no bells and whistles. That means no volumetric control and no PID. To get the best out of this machine you’ll have to learn how to temperature surf as well as figure out how to achieve manual pre-infusion. Still, once you’ve got to grips with the machine, you’ll love Miss Silvia forever!
See Also: Rancilio Silvia Review
Lelit Mara X
Prosumer Powerhouse
Lelit Mara X
This machine has it all
Gorgeous to behold
Rugged build
Tons of adjustable settings
Makes superb espresso
Professional-grade components
Rather expensive
| Lelit Mara X | |
| Manufacturer | Lelit |
|---|---|
| Model number | PL62X |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Black, Brushed Stainless Steel, White |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | 1 |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 84.5 fl oz / 2.5 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 4.5 in / 11.4 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 1 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1250 W |
| Weight | 40.5 lb / 18.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 13.8 x 8.7 x 16.3 in |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Notes | Included Accessories: User manual, 2 x filter baskets, blind basket, tamper, cup riser, coffee scoop, water filter, group brush, cleaning kit |
| Current price on Amazon | BUY NOW ON AMAZON |
| All specifications | |
At $995.00, the Lelit Mara X costs the same as the aforementioned Rancilio Silvia. And it just so happens that this is one of the best prosumer espresso machines I’ve ever tested.
Featuring a surprisingly compact footprint and a lovely retro-industrial design, the Lelit Mara X is a very powerful home espresso machine. Notable components include a 58mm portafilter and a super-powerful steam wand. The machine also has a heat exchanger boiler, meaning you can pull a shot and steam milk at the same time. Even better, the manufacturer equipped this machine with a custom pump and an additional temperature probe for thermal stability.
During my testing I was blown away by the Mara X’s espresso quality, as well as the steam wand’s pressure capabilities. Oh, and you can also choose from three brew temperature settings, which is a really nice touch.
See Also: Lelit Mara X Review
Fully Automatic Espresso Machines
Maybe you don’t want to jump down an espresso rabbit hole and obsess over grind size, dose and brew ratios. You should still be able to enjoy good espresso at home, right?
Enter the fully automatic espresso machine, which promises to take care of everything for you. As it happens, this type of espresso machine is getting more popular all the time and it’s easy to see why. I mean, all you have to do is throw coffee beans in at the top, press a button or two and wait for the machine to do its thing.
Of course, trade-offs abound. Firstly, you’ll have way less control over the outcome than with a traditional espresso machine. Sure, you’ll likely be able to adjust a few parameters like grind size and temperature, but not a whole lot. Plus, super automatic espresso machines require a lot of cleaning and maintenance to keep them in good working order.
Fortunately, these machines have come a long way in recent years. Manufacturers like Jura introduced advanced brewing technology in an attempt to compensate for a fully automatic’s inherent pressure limitations. However, you’ll pay a serious premium – these babies ain’t cheap.
A happy medium comes in the form of the hybrid espresso machine, which often does almost everything for you. In addition to the aforementioned Breville Barista Touch Impress, models like the DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro and Ninja Luxe Cafe are worth checking out.
Let’s take a look at three models that feature in my guide to the best fully automatic espresso machines:
DeLonghi Dinamica Plus
Strong mid-range machine
DeLonghi Dinamica Plus
The Upgrades Everyone Wanted
LatteCrema Milk Frothing System
Color touchscreen display
Coffee Link app
Tons of adjustable settings
Easy to clean
Pot function is disappointing
Limited user profiles
| DeLonghi Dinamica Plus | |
| Manufacturer | De’Longhi |
|---|---|
| Model number | ECAM37095TI |
| Product category | Super automatic espresso machine |
| Removable brew group | |
| Housing material | Plastic with stainless steel parts |
| Color options | Titanium |
| Milk frother | Integrated carafe |
| User interface | Touchscreen |
| App | |
| User profiles | 3 |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 60.9 fl oz / 1.8 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 19 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 5.5 in / 14.0 cm |
| Minimum cup height | 3.5 in / 8.9 cm |
| Grinder | Stainless steel conical burr grinder |
| Grind adjustment levels | 13 |
| Bean hopper capacity | 10.6 oz / 300.0 g |
| Pre-ground coffee bypass | |
| Grounds discard container capacity | 14 |
| Specialty drinks | 16 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| Adjustable milk temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Pot function | |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1250 W |
| Weight | 21.0 lb / 9.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 13.7 x 9.3 x 16.8 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: Carbon active filter, measuring scoop, hardness test, cleaning brush, descaling solution, removable water spout, milk jug. TrueBrew Over Ice technology. |
| Current price on Amazon | $1,299.99 |
| All specifications | |
Released in 2021, the DeLonghi Dinamica Plus shows no signs of aging out. Sure, new super automatics keep coming thick and fast, but the Dinamica Plus is still the machine by which I measure all others.
Available for $1,299.99, the DeLonghi Dinamica Plus isn’t the most affordable model on the market. However, its price-performance ratio is second to none.
It all comes down to the fact that DeLonghi really nailed it with this machine. It features a touchscreen interface, plenty of adjustable settings and an integrated milk frother that really delivers. What’s more, the Dinamica Plus is rocking a stainless steel conical burr grinder with 13 adjustment settings.
This machine is easy to use, easy to clean and makes absolutely superb espresso. Heck, there’s even a cold brew function. What more could you ask for?
See Also: DeLonghi Dinamica Plus Review
Terra Kaffe TK-02
A thoroughly modern super automatic
Terra Kaffe TK-02
A premium machine offering superb value
Looks great
Easy to use
Fantastic app
Tons of adjustable settings
Great value
Cheap milk container
| Terra Kaffe TK-02 | |
| Manufacturer | Terra Kaffe |
|---|---|
| Model number | TK-02 |
| Product category | Super automatic espresso machine |
| Removable brew group | |
| Housing material | Plastic with stainless steel parts |
| Color options | Black, White |
| Milk frother | Cappuccinatore |
| User interface | Touchscreen |
| App | |
| User profiles | 1 |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 74.4 fl oz / 2.2 l |
| Number of boilers | 2 |
| Pump pressure | 9 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 5.5 in / 14.0 cm |
| Minimum cup height | 1.9 in / 4.8 cm |
| Grinder | Stainless steel conical burr grinder |
| Grind adjustment levels | 5 |
| Bean hopper capacity | 15.9 oz / 450.0 g |
| Pre-ground coffee bypass | |
| Grounds discard container capacity | 10 |
| Specialty drinks | 12 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| Adjustable milk temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Pot function | |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1400 W |
| Weight | 29.5 lb / 13.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 14.3 x 10.4 x 17.5 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: User manual, milk carafe, app download |
| Current price on Amazon | $1,995.00 |
| All specifications | |
The Terra Kaffe TK-02 has taken the coffee world by storm, and it isn’t hard to see why. I mean, just look at the thing – it’s modern, stylish and very cool. Wouldn’t you want to see that waiting for you in your kitchen every morning?
Looks aside, the Terra Kaffe TK-02 thoroughly impressed me when I put it through its paces earlier this year. I simply love the understated touchscreen display, and I was blown away by how precisely I could dial in my espresso. Oh, and the manufacturer’s hybrid brew unit adapts itself according to the drink you’re making, which is pretty clever, right?
Speaking of clever, this is a smart coffee maker, through and through. Not only does the grinder adapt to the type of beans you’re using, the TK-02 connects to a sophisticated app that lets you create recipes, control the machine remotely and more.
The Terra Kaffe TK-02 is currently available for $1,995.00, which is no small amount. Still, I feel like this machine represents extremely good value for money.
See Also: Terra Kaffe TK-02 Review
Jura Z10
Great innovation
Jura Z10
All-round success with excellent innovations
Very high-quality design
Quiet electronic grinder
Hot and cold coffee
Sophisticated app
Excellent espresso and milk foam
Very expensive
No milk container included
| Jura Z10 | |
| Manufacturer | Jura |
|---|---|
| Model number | 15361/15756/15464/15636 |
| Product category | Super automatic espresso machine |
| Removable brew group | |
| Housing material | Stainless steel with plastic parts |
| Color options | Aluminum Black, Aluminum White, Diamond Black, Diamond White |
| Milk frother | Cappuccinatore |
| User interface | Touch screen with buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 81.2 fl oz / 2.4 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 5.9 in / 15.0 cm |
| Minimum cup height | 3.0 in / 7.6 cm |
| Grinder | Stainless steel conical burr grinder |
| Grind adjustment levels | 5 |
| Bean hopper capacity | 10.2 oz / 290.0 g |
| Pre-ground coffee bypass | |
| Grounds discard container capacity | 20 |
| Specialty drinks | 40 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| Adjustable milk temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Pot function | |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1450 W |
| Weight | 27.0 lb / 12.2 kg |
| Dimensions | 15.0 x 12.6 x 17.7 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: Instruction booklet, sweet foam cartridge, milk system cleaning container, measuring spoon, filter casing. |
| Current price on Amazon | $4,299.00 |
| All specifications | |
The magnificent Jura Z10 consistently comes out on top in my guide to the best fully automatic espresso machines. And with each new generation, this remarkable machine just gets better.
As I mentioned above, Jura leads the way when it comes to super automatic technology. Features like Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.) brewing technology and an electronic Product Recognizing Grinder (P.R.G.) make the Jura Z10 one of the most advanced coffee machines on the market. Add in the fact that this beauty has a touchscreen display, advanced app and a successful cold extraction function, and you know you’re onto a winner.
Of course, all this doesn’t come cheap. In fact, you’ll have to shell out a whopping $4,299.00 for the Z10. Still, if you can afford it and want a fully automatic machine that’s capable of producing sublime espresso and milk-based specialties, look no further.
See Also: Jura Z10 Review
Manual vs Semi-Automatic vs Fully Automatic: Which Espresso Machine Is Best for You?
I hope that this guide has helped you understand the differences between different types of espresso machines. To be honest, I love all things espresso, so don’t expect me to pick a favorite type of machine.
Besides, there are so many models in the Coffeeness kitchen that I have the luxury of being able to make espresso with a different machine every day! Then again, it’s my job to play with coffee gear, and I know how lucky I am to have so many options. Ultimately, the type of espresso machine that’s best for you will depend on a number of factors. With that in mind, here’s a quick recap:
Choose a manual machine if: You’re interested in a hands-on approach to brewing espresso and like to experiment. You’ll also have to be prepared to put in a lot of time as you’re learning to master the machine.
Opt for a semi-automatic machine if: You want to be able to choose from a wide range of models at different price points. You’ll also be able to find models with built-in grinders and many automated functions.
Go with a fully automatic machine if: You want convenience, user-friendliness and don’t mind sacrificing on espresso quality somewhat.
What type of espresso machine do you have at home? Do you have more than one? Share your thoughts and experience in the comments section!
Types of Espresso Machines FAQ
The three main types of espresso machines are manual lever, semi-automatic and fully automatic.
Manual espresso machines usually have a lever for controlling the pressure during extraction. However, travel espresso makers like the WACACO Nanopresso use a pump system to create pressure.
Deciding which is the best type of espresso machine for you depends on your skill level and whether or not you want to delve into espresso as a hobby.
