Pump vs. Steam Espresso Machines

Steam Espresso Machines

These machines boil water to produce steam. The steam's pressure forces it through the coffee, producing the drink that runs into the cups beneath the machine's outlets.

Pump Espresso Machines

These machines heat water to the optimum temperature required to produce a cup of coffee. The pump then forces water through the ground coffee and the drink runs into the cups beneath the outlets.

Steam Machine Advantages

Steam espresso makers are less expensive. The coffee is hotter than it is in pump machines.

Steam Machine Disadvantages

High temperatures can give the coffee a burned taste. The website Coffee Makers Cafe says steam machines cannot produce a quality crema on espresso and cannot be opened when in use because of the danger of boiling water.

Pump Machine Advantages

Coffee Makers Cafe says the coffee from these machines generally has a "nicer taste" than steam machine coffee. It also has a "high-quality crema."

Pump Machine Disadvantages

Pump machines are generally more expensive than steam machines.

References

• Coffee-Makers-Cafe: Espresso Machines

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Photo Credit

Coffe maker image by robootb from Fotolia.com