Coffee Machine 101
So, you’ve decided to get a coffee machine for your home. You walk in our showroom but you’re scratching your head, overwhelmed with all the flashy machines that're neatly parked next to each other.
Why are some bigger than others? How are they different from one another? Why do they look more like collections of art than coffee machines?
Well, this is just the right place for you rising coffee aficionados! We’ll walk you through the basics of coffee machines, the differences, pros and cons, and everything that you need to know about coffee machines.
Brief History
Let’s tap into the history of the coffee machine for a bit.
With coffee already being a big hit across the European continent as early as the 19th century, people were looking to make it quicker and taste better. While looking for a method to quickly brew coffee in a cup, Luigi Bezzera came up with the first espresso machine in the early 20th century; a machine that was capable of producing coffee in less than half a minute!
On the contrary, Angelo Moriondo was the first person to patent an espresso machine in 1884, but up until today, there’s still no verifiable machine or even photographs to prove his invention. Only his patent remained, and Angelo was largely lost to history.
Soon after, Luigi Bezzera and Achille Pavoni teamed up to perfect the design and began adding more improvements to it, marketing his product throughout Italy. Pavoni also created the steam wand to access the built-up steam that collected inside a machine’s boiler.
This collaboration, combined with technological advances in steam propulsion, allowed for all of us to enjoy espresso today!
Different types of machine
Fast forward to the 21st century, countless innovations were made in the coffee industry and today, there are four main types of coffee machines that you can select from :
1. Pod/Capsule
2. Super-automatic
3. Semi-automatic
4. Manual
Each type of machine has its own purpose and unique advantages.
Capsule
The capsule, or pod coffee machine is a no frills coffee machine that brews coffee using none other than a capsule/pod. A capsule is usually packed in a plastic/aluminium, while a pod is packed in a paper pod. They both essentially function very similarly to one another.
Literally, the only skill you need with a capsule/pod machine is to insert the capsule and push a button! It requires no maintenance and the small size means it can fit practically anywhere. You also do not have control over the machine parameters as it is very straightforward.
While it may not exactly brew espresso, a pod is very easy to use and is probably the quickest way to get your coffee.
Why you should get one: If your only concern is getting your daily caffeine fix, the capsule/pod is the ideal choice! One push of a button and your caffeine is served!
Super-automatic
A super-automatic (super-auto), or fully-automatic machine provides a convenient coffee brewing experience at home. A push of a button is all it takes to turn ground beans into sweet, warm, and rich espresso for your personal enjoyment and pleasure!
Unlike the capsule or pod where the coffee is pre-ground, a super-auto machine comes fully equipped with a built-in grinder so that fresh ground beans are made every time you brew that perfect cup of coffee. The programmable functions allow you to personalise the brew strength, water quantity, and beverage choice (americano, latte, etc.).
Basically, it is the brain of the coffee-making process that handles everything from grinding your beans to frothing your milk, so all you have to do is push one button and your coffee is ready.
Why you should get one: If you’re a fan of espresso but lack the skills to pull one, the super-auto will do it all for you!
Semi-automatic
Semi-automatic (semi-auto) machines are when it gets real. The semi-auto allows for a wide range of control over the parameters of pulling espresso. You will have to grind and tamp your own coffee, set the temperature and stop your own shot. Yeap, this is when your barista skills are put to the test! The steam wand on the semi-auto also allows you to steam velvety, well-textured milk which is perfect for that fancy latte art you’ve always wanted to pour! (It takes skills though, so practice hard!).
If you are an up and coming barista, the semi-auto allows your ability to grow and also refine your skills. You will see a lot of semi-automatic machines in specialty cafes and the homes of enthusiasts. The Musica by Nuova Simonelli is a great semi-auto machine if you're just starting out. Semi-autos also require separate coffee equipment such as grinder, weighing scale, and tamper, among others.
There is a learning curve when you handle a semi-auto, but it is more user-friendly than a manual which we will talk about after this.
Why you should get one: If exploring and experimenting espresso depths is your forte, the semi-auto gives you all the control you need.
Manual
Manual coffee machine; the crème de la crème of all coffee machines. It requires tremendous skill as the result of the espresso depends entirely on you. As its name suggests, you have full control of the machine and how it behaves throughout the entire process of pulling your shot.
It can get exhausting as the learning curve is even steeper than semi-auto, and there are quite a number of parts that needs to be cleaned and maintained regularly.
When you use a manual machine, everything is done obviously manually, giving you complete control over every moving part of the brewing process. This means that you can make customized quality decisions in terms of grind, temperature, and pressure to produce top-quality espresso shots. The precise process of a manual machine produces particularly flavorful and distinct espresso when executed well.
Classic look and design are one of the many reasons why many prefer the manual machine. These machines are classic and beautiful, and adds an interesting aesthetic to your countertop.
This level of control can be daunting for some people, but it can also be exciting to master the art of manual brewing.
Why you should get one: If you are considering a manual, chances are you're a purist. You probably wish you could meet Bezzera himself and try on the first espresso machine he invented. Well, the manual is the perfect choice for you!
Another main component of a coffee machine that you should also know would be the boiler. There are several different boilers for different purposes and settings, but that is another topic for a different time. You should take note of what you really want out of your coffee machine.
While some coffee drinkers just need that quick caffeine fix, there are others who look for the nuances in espresso and don't mind the extra step or two. Deliberate carefully, and after reading this article, you should know which coffee machine suits you the best.
We hope you’ve learned a few things about coffee machines. If you’d like to know even more about coffee machines, feel free to drop by our showroom.
Our expert sales team are equipped with extensive knowledge on coffee machines, and are more than happy to help you out with any inquiries you may have.
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