How to Compare Krups Espresso Machines
The home espresso market's competitive nature and varied features mean manufacturers often release several different models of espresso makers to fill the needs of different market segments. Krups has created quality, precision appliances since its creation in 1846, and offers several machines capable of brewing espresso. Krups brand espresso makers target home consumers with a varied range of easy-to-use features and uses. Catering to both value-minded and higher-end consumers, Krups offers products ranging from low-cost steam brewers to fully automatic -- and expensive -- high-end espresso machines. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Examine the types of drinks the machine brews. Krups offers combination coffee/espresso brewers as well as straightforward espresso machines. Purchase an espresso maker rather than a combination system to save money.
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Price out the espresso machines. Determine a dollar range for the amount you're willing to spend, and identify which Krups espresso machines fall in that range. Establish a monetary figure early to avoid wasting time researching models that you can't afford. As of 2010, the XP1020 Steam Espresso machine is only $59.99, while the Krups XP9000 Automatic Espresso Machine runs $2,199.99, and other models fall at various price points between those two.
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Study the brewing functions of the espresso machine. Basic models use a simple steaming function to help brew the espresso, but slightly more expensive pump models heat and release steam to a precise pressure and temperature to produce a higher-quality espresso. Choose a manual or semi-automatic machine to have more control over the amount and timing of released water, or choose automatic versions to brew espresso with a few button pushes.
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Compare the amount of espresso the machine brews at one time. Most models only produce one or two cups of espresso at a time, while Krups steam and combination models sometimes ship with carafes and can brew up to 4 cups of espresso at once.
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Research the special features for the machine. Depending on the model, Krups espresso machines offer programmable delayed brewing, a "Precise Tamping System" to ensure coffee grounds are evenly packed, universal filters, digital displays and additional bar pumps to ensure a more precise water temperature. Decide which features are important to you, then compare the feature list for the models you're comparing.
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Measure the "footprint" of the machines if you have a small area the machine needs to fit in. Different models have different physical dimensions, and the more expensive pump, combination and fully automatic machines require a significant amount of counter space.
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