How to Buy a Coffeemaker or Espresso Machine

Brewing the perfect cup can start your morning off right, while downing a burned cup can make you walk sideways for hours. What type of machine is right for you depends on how rich you like your coffee, how much kitchen counter space you have and how much you consume.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Consider how much coffee you drink to determine whether you want a 4-cup or as big as a 12-cup machine. The price of coffeemakers varies greatly--anywhere from $75 for a basic model to $1,000 for one that grinds your beans, makes both coffee and espresso, and has a timer.

2. Want the best flavor? Go for a Moka pot, which makes black espresso on your stovetop (without foam or froth), or a French press, which makes thick and sometimes grainy coffee by hand. Drip coffeemakers are becoming more refined as well.

3. Determine if you have the space and cash for a big, gleaming piston-style espresso machine, or should you buy a compact and economical Krups espresso maker? Espresso machines can run from $100 to $500, and upward of $1,000 for professional and European stainless-steel piston types.

Tips & Warnings

• A good cup of coffee or espresso has as much to do with the quality of water, beans and grind, and the fineness of the grind, as it does with the machine. If the espresso is too fine, you won't get a topping of rich, brown "crema" in your cup. How to grind beans depends on the filter's shape and size.

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[triscutie]

on 10/24/2007 lena333 is the owners sister!!

[togood]

on 1/29/2007 Having an old Saeco machine and going to a new Salvatore Machine you are traveling into a whole new realm. Don't get me wrong the Salvatore machine is great machine, and they are a great company. Take this from a daily espresso drinker.

[lena333]

on 1/25/2007 I have an old Saeco machine that the miracle working techs at http://www.espressodmilan.com fixed for me and they were awesome but now I'm going to buy a new Salvatore machine from them and I can't wait until arrives!!

on 7/28/2006 If you're looking for an espresso machine, you should consider whether you want a pump or a steam machine.

Pump driven machines tend to be more expensive, but they brew a more consistent espresso.

Steam machines are less expensive and more erratic; brewing espresso with them may require more finesse and artistry.