Fully automatic espresso machines make the process of brewing an espresso or a cappuccino more convenient for consumers.
Fully automatic espresso machines: a step forward?
The difference between semi-automatic and automatic espresso machines comes with the control that the user has over the brewing process. With semi-automatic machines, we control the moment brewing starts and the moment it finishes. We cannot leave the machine unsupervised until the process is over.
While semi-automatic espresso machines are preferable for home use, automatic machines are usually recommended for coffee bars. The advantage is that the ‘barista’ will offer all the customers the same quality of espresso all the time.
How to use the automatic machine
First of all, we must say that automation sometimes works to the detriment of quality. This holds true when it comes to automatic espresso machines. When we discuss quality, we also mean the ability to brew the espresso to your own taste or to that of your guests. The real advantage of automatic machines lies in their convenience.
Otherwise, the process is very simple. You fill the portafilter with pre-ground coffee, tamp it down, plug in the machine, push a button and set the water level. The machine will take care of the rest. You can take care of other matters while your espresso is brewing. Passionate coffee aficionados do not consider this real “espresso time”. For them, it is just another routine activity.
If you want to purchase an automatic machine for home use, your options are limited to a few models deriving from the semi-automatic ones.
- The Solis SL 90 brings a few advantages to the SL 70 model (the semi-automatic one): you can program the cup size, control the brewing process with one push of the button and also use it in a semi-automatic mode. The price is $450 or a little more.
- The Pasquini Livia 90 Automatic espresso & cappuccino machine (price slightly below $1,500) is not suitable for home use unless you plan entertaining many friends on a regular basis.
You should also read:
- Types of espresso machines Below we will discuss the four types of espresso machines, plus the steam-driven version, and their main features. When we...
- The Espresso Machine When buying an espresso machine you need to know how much you are willing to spend, and how much you...
- Semi-automatic espresso machines Semi-automatic espresso machines are designed for home use. The espresso machine was first invented for commercial use in coffee-houses and...
- Home and commercial espresso machines Commercial espresso machines have large, robust parts made of steel. They can be left on forever, and work intensively. Should...
- Manual Espresso Machines Although manual espresso machines are not easy to operate or clean, they can brew very good espresso. They allow you...