This category covers espresso machines: automatic bean-to-cup models with a built-in grinder, semi-automatic machines and manual machines with a portafilter. There are over 200 models for homes and small offices where people want espresso, cappuccino or latte every day. Brands include De'Longhi, Philips, Rocket, Quick Mill and Sage.
How to choose an espresso machine
Machine type. A fully automatic machine grinds the beans and brews the drink at the touch of a button, which suits busy mornings. With semi-automatic and manual machines you grind, tamp and control the extraction yourself, which gives more control over flavour but takes practice. Our range includes all three types.
Type of coffee. Machines with a grinder use whole beans, and many also have a separate chute for ground coffee. Some models accept coffee pods as well, which makes a quick cup less messy. If you sometimes want decaf, choose a machine that also takes ground coffee.
Pressure and heating. Most machines in our range are rated at 15 bar, which is enough for good espresso. A higher number does not guarantee better taste, because a stable water temperature matters more. If you make a lot of milk drinks, look for models that can steam milk and brew at nearly the same time. Power in our range runs from 1200 to 1900 W.
Water tank. Tank capacities in our range run from 1 to 2.5 litres, and 1.8 litres is a common size. A family or an office benefits from a larger tank, so you do not need to refill several times a day. For one person a smaller tank is enough.
Controls and cleaning. Controls come as buttons, a touch screen or rotary dials. Buttons are easy to use without looking, while a touch screen makes it simpler to pick recipes. On automatic machines, check whether the brew unit can be removed and whether the milk system is easy to rinse.
Brands we carry
- De'Longhi: Italian maker known for both bean-to-cup machines and pump espresso machines for the home.
- Philips: uses the LatteGo milk system in its automatic models, which has only two parts and is quick to rinse.
- Rocket: machines built in Milan for semi-professional home use, often with an E61 group head.
- Quick Mill: Italian manufacturer focused on semi-professional pump machines.
- Sage: the name Breville uses in Europe, known for machines with a built-in grinder.
- Krups: automatic machines with a grinder, known for the Evidence series.
- Gaggia: Italian maker whose founder, Achille Gaggia, patented the modern lever espresso machine in 1938.
- Siemens: EQ series automatic machines with a touch display.
Also in our range: Outin, Ariete and Gastroback.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an automatic and a semi-automatic espresso machine?
An automatic machine grinds the beans, tamps the coffee and brews the drink at the touch of a button. On a semi-automatic machine you grind and tamp the coffee yourself, and the machine only delivers the water. The first is more convenient every day, while the second gives more control over flavour.
Is 15 bar pressure enough for good espresso?
Yes, 15 bar is enough for good espresso, and many machines in our range are rated at that level. Taste depends more on how fresh the coffee is, how finely it is ground and the water temperature than on higher pressure. There is no need to choose a model just for a bigger number.
Can I use ground coffee in a machine with a grinder?
Many models have a separate chute for ground coffee, but not all do. Our range includes machines that use only beans as well as models that accept both beans and ground coffee. Check the specification before buying.
How often do I need to clean and descale an espresso machine?
Rinse the milk system after each use and empty the coffee grounds container daily. How often to descale depends on how hard your water is and on the model, so follow the manufacturer's instructions. Regular cleaning extends the life of the machine and keeps the coffee tasting right.
