Home Espresso Machines

The espresso machine is a device used to produce the Italian coffee known as espresso. The commercial espresso machines that you see in most coffee shops and cafes are typically the largest piece of equipment found in the establishment but actually produce the smallest beverage. Professional espresso machines are often hooked up directly to the building's hot water supply. Home espresso machines are not quite as elaborate, but they still have many features to take into consideration before implementing one into your home. Here are a few of the various espresso equipment options you have:

Cup warmer - this may seem like such a simple feature, but not all espresso makers have them. They are usually found on top of the machine.

Hot water dispenser - this is a handy feature that can serve many purposes such as making hot teas or hot chocolate as well as anything else you might use hot water for.

Frothing wand - the frothing wand is primarily used for lattes and cappuccinos in which the milk needs to be frothed. Higher end espresso makers feature a milk canister along with the wand.

Strength control - this feature allows you to control the amount of water and grounds used in the actual process. It is usually found on semi-automatic and automatic espresso machines.

Pre-moistening cycle - simply put, the espresso machine will moisten the grounds before process begins in order to bring out more aroma and flavor.

Pod compatibility - prepackaged pods of espresso coffee grounds take all the guesswork out of making an espresso. Newer espresso machines can use both pods and the traditional method, but not all machines can use the pods, so be aware.

Water filter - many of today's espresso makers feature built-in water filters which filter out all the potentially harmful elements from your tap water. It's a great idea, but it also shoots the price tag up.

Bean grinder - yes, some espresso machines come with their very own built-in bean grinder that grinds the precise amount of espresso coffee for a single use. As with all lovely features such as this, it comes with a price tag.

Bypass doser - if you have an automatic espresso machine, this option allows you to use a different kind of coffee from what is ready to go in the machine, such as decaf.

More information on espresso machines