How to choose an espresso machine

Have you always wanted to enjoy barista-standard espresso in the comfort of your own home? Or do you simply need to upgrade your old espresso machine? In this article, we'll explore what makes an espresso machine good and what to look out for when choosing the perfect model for your caffeinated needs and home space.  

Read on to learn how to choose the best espresso machine so you can start brewing balanced, smooth shots and drinks in an instant.  

How to pick an espresso machine

Choosing the right espresso machine for your home can feel overwhelming. With so many different machines and models on the market, it can be difficult to distinguish between the options and make a decision.

 

When considering what to look for in an espresso maker, let's start by introducing the three different types of machines:

 

• Manual or lever: This hands-on machine gives you full control of the process, from the grinding to the pressure and extraction time.
• Semi-automatic: This type of machine automates part of the espresso-making process, like controlling the water temperature, but you are in full control of the grinding and tamping.
• Automatic: This machine requires minimal intervention for an easy, hands-off process. It handles the grinding, tamping and brewing, so you don't have to lift a finger (besides selecting the setting and refilling the beans and water!). Providing up to 20 different varieties, including hot and iced coffee at the touch of a button, this is an essential for coffee lovers.

Choosing the right grinder

 

The type of grinder you select for your espresso maker is important as it affects the taste and quality of the espresso. The three main types of grinders are flat burr grinders, conical burr grinders and blade grinders.

 

The burr is the sharp edge that grinds the coffee beans into the desired size.

 

• Conical burr grinder: This type of grinder grinds the beans between two rings of burrs into a fine, consistent texture.
• Flat burr grinder: In this type of grinder, the burrs sit on top of each other and grind the beans as they pass through them.
• Blade grinder: This type uses a spinning blade to chop and process the beans.

 

Our coffee grinders are 100% ceramic and ensure the machine brings the full flavour of fresh coffee beans without compromise.

Get to know the boiler

 

The boiler is another crucial part of an espresso machine. Different espresso makers have different types of boiler which include:

 

• Single boiler: This uses one single boiler for brewing espresso and steaming milk for your drinks, meaning you can only do one at a time. 
• Dual boiler: This has two boilers, one for the espresso and one for the milk, so you can prepare them simultaneously. These are mainly used in a café setting due to the amount of coffee being prepared.
• Thermoblock boiler: This features a thick piece of metal with a coil, which heats the water as it passes through the pump.
• Heat exchange boiler: This has a single boiler for the water and a separate heat exchanger, so you can steam milk and brew shots at the same time.

Why temperature control is important 

 

Never underestimate the impact of water temperature when it comes to making espresso! Getting the right temperature is an important factor in creating that perfect cup of espresso.

 

If you brew coffee at too low a temperature, it will typically taste sour. If you brew it at too high a temperature, it can create a bitter taste.

 

Opt for a semi-automatic or automatic machine if you don't want to worry about getting the water temperature wrong, as they control it for you.

Choosing from Philips’ range of espresso machines

 

So, now you know what to look for in a home espresso machine, it's time to start browsing espresso maker models for your home.

 

Create the easiest, best-tasting espressos in your kitchen with our fully-automatic and our brand new semi-automatic espresso makers, a home barista essential.

 

How to choose an espresso coffee machine for your home also depends on your preferences, like how many cups you want to brew and the types of drinks you love most. For example, our Series 2200 model brews two caskups at a time, ideal for those living solo and couples. If you require more coffee for bigger families and groups, the 5500 series is a perfect choice.

 

Some of our espresso machines feature our LatteGo milk solution, the fastest to clean*, making it easy to create delicious milky drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. Browse our full collection of espresso machines now and find the design and features to suit your needs, preferences and style.

 

*Based on consumer testing in Germany comparing leading One Touch (Coffee + Milk) Full Automatic Espresso Machines (2023).

 

Curious how much you're really spending on takeaway coffee? Take the quick quiz on our Philips CoffeeHack website to find out. Based on your habits, you'll get a personalized coffee machine recommendation that fits your lifestyle. Enjoy café-quality drinks at home with more convenience, better taste—and yes, long-term savings with Philips.