How to Compare Espresso Coffee Machines

Before choosing an espresso machine, know what you'll be using it for and what you want out of it. Prepare a budget of what you want to spend on the machine. If you're buying for home use, you should be prepared to spend between $100 and $1,000. Commercial espresso machines can range from $3,500 to well over $10,000, depending on the brand.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Paper
• Pen

Instructions

Compare Features

1. Compare the features on each machine. Is the machine is fully automatic or is it semiautomatic? What kind of boiler system does the the machine? Is it is single boiler or a double boiler?

2. Compare the electrical requirements for operating each machine. Will you need to install a higher voltage power outlet, or can you use a standard wall outlet?

3. Explore the different tamping options. Does the machine require the operator to hand tamp the espresso or does it use pods?

4. See if the machine requires an external water filtration system or a water pump. Consider the extra expense if the machine requires these items.

Gather Feedback

1. Gather feedback from customers who have purchased and used the machine.

2. Find an online retailer that sells the brand and model machine you're interested in and read the various reviews and online ratings. This type of feedback likely can be trusted because it is unbiased and voluntary.

3. Gather questions that arise from reading the reviews and feedback. Get answers from the person looking to sell you the espresso machine.

4. Use this information to compare the espresso machines in which you're interested. Weigh the positives and negatives of each and use this information to make your decision.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're buying a used machine, take the serial number and search for the espresso machine's history online.

References

• How to Buy an Espresso Machine
• The Espresso Guy
• Whole Latte Love

Resources

• Coffee Review