The Best Steam Espresso Machines Buying Guide

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Are you looking for the best steam espresso machines? Look no further! Steam espresso machines are becoming increasingly popular in the modern age, as they have come a long way in recent years. Making delicious espresso drinks is now easier than ever, thanks to the convenience of automatic espresso machines. With just a push of a button, these machines can quickly and easily craft your favorite espresso-based beverages, from lattes and cappuccinos to americanos and macchiatos. Not only do they make great-tasting coffee drinks with the push of a button, but they are also incredibly convenient for busy lifestyles, saving you time.

The invention of espresso machines has made making delicious cappuccinos and lattes easier than ever at home. These machines can precisely make any espresso-based drink, allowing you to enjoy your favorite coffee drinks without leaving the house.

These machines provide fast and easy espresso-making with just the push of a button, giving you the perfect cup every time. They come with high-end features such as temperature control, pre-programmed recipes, and customizable settings, making them an excellent choice for coffee lovers everywhere.

This buying guide will help you find the perfect machine to suit your needs. We’ll discuss the different types of steam espresso machines, what features to look for in a good machine, and how to choose the best one for your home or office. Not only do these machines produce delicious drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos, but they are also incredibly convenient for busy lifestyles. We’ll also discuss some of the most popular brands and models on the market today and tips on how to get the most out of your machine. With this guide in hand, you can be sure that you’re getting a great machine that will provide years of delicious espresso drinks!

A quick review of our Best Steam Espresso Machines

ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker

Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker

Best Overall

  • Best overall
  • Easy to clean

 

Price on Amazon
Gevi 15 Bar Espresso Machine

Gevi 15 Bar Espresso Machine

Best Efficiency

  • Best efficiency
  • Great and consistent coffee taste 

 

Price on Amazon
Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine

Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine

Best Price

  • Best Price
  • Great grinding system

 

Price on Amazon
Mr. Coffee 4-Cup Steam Espresso with Milk Frother

Mr. Coffee 4-Cup Steam Espresso with Milk Frother

Best with Milk Frother

  • Best Espresso with a Milk frother
  • Brewing time is really fast 
  • High-quality pressure pump

 

Price on Amazon
De'Longhi EC9355M La Specialista Prestigio Espresso Machine

De'Longhi EC9355M La Specialista Prestigio Espresso Machine

Best Performance

  • Best Temperature control
  • Consistent performance
  • Dynamic pre-infusion

 

Price on Amazon
Wirsh Espresso Machine

Wirsh Espresso Machine

Best Sturdy

  • Best build quality
  • Very easy to use
  • Powerful steam wand

 

Price on Amazon

The Best Steam Espresso Machines Buying Guide

1- Hamilton Beach 2-Way Brewer Coffee Maker

Best Overall
Serve 8 cups
Best overall
Easy to clean
 
The Hamilton Beach Programmable Coffee Maker allows you to make either a single-serve cup or an entire pot of coffee using your favorite roast. It offers hassle-free brewing whether you opt for one or the other and is not compatible with pods.
 
The mesh scoop makes it easy to brew coffee: just scoop, place, and brew; no extra measuring is required. Brew a cup of coffee with ground coffee and the included mesh scoop for an easy, hassle-free experience.
 
A coffee maker with an auto-shutoff feature eliminates the worry of leaving it on after leaving the house. It turns off automatically after 2 hours. It can be programmed to brew coffee ahead of time, making hot coffee ready when you wake up. It is not compatible with K-Cup pods.
 
It can brew both single-serve and 12-cup pots of coffee, making it easy to enjoy a cup of your favorite beverage at any time. The black finish makes it a stylish addition to any kitchen countertop.
 
Pros
  • Fast brewing
  • Sturdy build
  • Very easy to use
Cons
  • Brew quality isn’t consistent

2- Gevi 15 Bar Espresso Machine

Best Efficiency
Serve 8 cups
Best efficiency
Great and consistent coffee taste 
 
The Gevi 15 Bar Espresso Machine is the perfect choice for those looking for a professional-grade espresso machine. It features a powerful 15-bar pump and an adjustable temperature setting that allows you to make your perfect cup of Espresso or cappuccino.
 
A dual-temperature control system allows for accurate adjustment of water and milk foam for optimal coffee and milk taste. The dial shows temperature changes, making it great for beginner baristas.
 
A hot steam wand can produce silky foam for cappuccinos and lattes. To make the best beverage, use two cups of 60ml liquid and 14g of powder. Create a cappuccino, latte, or flat white at home or the office. The removable froth nozzle makes the cleaning easy.
 
The 1.5L removable water tank ensures that you always have enough water on hand to make your favorite drinks, while the milk frother allows you to create creamy and delicious lattes and cappuccinos. With its sleek design and easy-to-use controls, this espresso machine is sure to satisfy all of your coffee needs.
 
Pros
  • Double temperature control
  • Multiple new colors
  • Less heating-up time
Cons
  • Not very sturdy

3- Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine

Best Price
Serve 8 cups
Best Price
Great grinding system
 
Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine is a great way to enjoy delicious Espresso and cappuccino drinks at home. This single-serve coffee maker comes with a milk frothing pitcher and steam wand, allowing you to make your favorite drinks quickly and easily.
 
The integrated frothing wand makes it easy to froth milk for delicious cappuccinos and lattes, while the water pitcher features measurement markings for consistent brewing and steaming.
 
This stainless steel frothing pitcher is ideal to use for steaming and frothing milk. It makes Espresso with a strong, dark taste, perfect for Cuban coffee. Additionally, it includes a measuring scoop that helps you accurately measure out and level the coffee powder quickly and easily.
 
The stainless steel construction ensures durability, while the easy-to-use controls make it simple to adjust the settings for your perfect brew. With this machine, you can create delicious espresso drinks in no time!
 
Pros
  • Very easy to use
  • Powerful steam wand
  • Wide range of brewing methods
Cons
  • Terrible design

4- Mr. Coffee 4-cup Steam Espresso with Milk Frother

Best with Milk Frother
Serve 8 cups
Best Espresso with a Milk frother
Brewing time is really fast 
High-quality pressure pump
 
The Mr. Coffee 4-Cup Steam Espresso System with Milk Frother is an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy a delicious cup of Espresso without breaking the bank. This system allows you to easily craft espresso drinks with its steam wand, while the milk frother helps you create creamy cappuccinos and lattes.
 
The Steam Heat feature of an espresso machine facilitates a stronger and richer espresso. Additionally, its frothing arm helps produce creamy foam for cappuccinos and lattes. Its removable, washable drip catcher also catches coffee droplets while keeping the brewing area clean.
 
With its 4-cup size, it is perfect for small households or offices that don’t need to make a large amount of Espresso at once. This easy-to-use glass carafe can provide up to 4 shots of Espresso. To reduce the noise during operation, make sure the water reservoir is full and correctly installed in its designated position.
 
Whether you’re a beginner barista or an experienced one, this system will help you make delicious espresso drinks in no time!
Pros
  • Convenient water pitcher
  • Fast brewing
  • Easy to clean
Cons
  • Not sturdy

5- De’Longhi EC9355M La Specialista Espresso Machine

Best Performance
Serve 8 cups
Best Temperature control
Consistent performance
Dynamic pre-infusion
The De’Longhi EC9355M La Specialista Prestigio Espresso Machine is a powerful, stainless steel espresso maker that offers you the perfect cup of coffee every time. With its advanced technology and intuitive design, this machine will help you make delicious espresso drinks with ease. It features a unique milk frothing system that allows you to customize your drinks according to your taste.
 
The integrated burr grinder and two sensors provide precise grinding and accurate serving of coffee. The Smart Tamping Station helps to minimize mess while ensuring uniform tamping. To enjoy the best espresso experience, use single-wall filter baskets. Ensure even wet coffee grounds with the right extraction levels by utilizing the machine’s power as soon as it is switched on. Enjoy ideal temperature stability and three customizable temperature profiles for better coffee extraction results.
 
Whether you’re a professional barista or an amateur looking for a great cup of coffee in the comfort of your own home, the De’Longhi EC9355M La Specialista Prestigio Espresso Machine is sure to meet all of your needs.
 
 
Pros
  • Spill-proof carafe
  • Brewing time is really fast
  • High-quality pressure pump
Cons
  • Bad customer service

6- Wirsh Espresso Machine

Best Sturdy
Serve 8 cups
Best build quality
Very easy to use
Powerful steam wand
 
The Wirsh Espresso Machine is the perfect choice for anyone looking to make delicious espresso drinks at home. This 15-bar espresso maker comes with a commercial steamer, allowing you to make latte and cappuccino with ease. The 42 oz removable water tank provides plenty of capacity for multiple cups of Espresso, and the machine’s stainless steel construction ensures it will last for years to come.
 
The Wirsh Home Barista espresso machine has a 15-bar Italian pump, a 1450W thermo-block heating system, and an automatic flow meter for optimal espresso extraction.
 
This espresso machine has a stainless steel steam wand that lets you make barista-style coffee drinks at home. Enjoy espresso, cappuccino, latte, macchiato, flat white or americano. Wirsh’s espresso machine offers convenience and style, with its dual-purpose portafilter and stainless steel body. It takes up minimal space in any modern kitchen. This machine features a convenient design with LED lights, a 42oz water tank, and detachable parts for taller cups and hot drinks. It also has a hot water function for tea or Americano.
 
With its easy-to-use interface, this machine is ideal for both beginners and experienced baristas alike. Start your day off right with a cup of Espresso made from the Wirsh Espresso Machine!
 
Pros
  • Very easy to use
  • Powerful steam wand
  • Wide range of brewing methods
Cons
  • The carafe is not leakproof.

How Our Team Tested, Evaluated, and Reviewed Steam Espresso Machines

At One Hundred Coffee, we are dedicated to providing reliable, thorough, and practical reviews to coffee lovers of all experience levels. Steam espresso machines, often considered an entry point to home espresso brewing, are valued for their simplicity and affordability. To ensure our reviews offer accurate and meaningful insights, we conducted a meticulous and replicable testing process. Below, we explain how we tested, evaluated, and reviewed steam espresso machines.


Why Should You Trust Us?

Here’s why our reviews of steam espresso machines are trustworthy and reliable:

  • Extensive Experience: Our team has been testing and reviewing coffee equipment for over four years, evaluating more than 100 coffee makers and espresso machines.
  • Independent Testing: We independently purchase all products to ensure unbiased evaluations, free from sponsorships or external influences.
  • Comprehensive Testing Process: Every review is based on a rigorous process that examines all aspects of the machine’s performance, usability, and durability.
  • Coffee Expertise: Our team includes certified baristas and seasoned coffee enthusiasts who bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to our reviews.
  • Consumer-Focused Approach: We prioritize the needs of everyday coffee drinkers, offering actionable advice for users across different budgets and skill levels.

What Makes Us Experts?

Our expertise is rooted in hands-on experience, technical knowledge, and a passion for great coffee. Here’s what qualifies us to review steam espresso machines:

  • In-Depth Knowledge: We understand the mechanics of steam-driven espresso machines and how they differ from pump-based models.
  • Real-World Testing: Each product is tested in practical, real-life conditions to evaluate its performance and usability.
  • Professional Training: Several team members are certified baristas with advanced knowledge of espresso brewing techniques.
  • Ongoing Research: We stay updated on industry trends and engage with manufacturers to learn about new technologies and product developments.
  • Structured Reviews: Our systematic testing ensures fair, consistent, and accurate evaluations.

The Tests and What We Learned

Espresso Quality

The primary purpose of any espresso machine is to produce great espresso. Here’s what we learned:

  • Flavor Profiles: Steam espresso machines tend to produce lighter-bodied espresso with less crema compared to pump-driven models. However, when paired with the right grind size and beans, they can deliver flavorful shots.
  • Pressure Limitations: Steam-driven machines operate at lower pressures (1-3 bars) than pump-driven machines, which can impact extraction quality.
  • Consistency: Achieving consistent results required experimenting with coffee-to-water ratios and grind sizes.

Ease of Use

We assessed how user-friendly each steam espresso machine was:

  • Setup and Operation: Most models were straightforward to set up and operate, making them ideal for beginners.
  • Steam Wand Performance: While steam wands on these machines are less powerful, they were sufficient for creating basic foam for lattes and cappuccinos.
  • Control Simplicity: Minimalistic controls made operation intuitive, though advanced users might find the lack of customization limiting.

Build Quality and Durability

We examined the materials and construction of each machine:

  • Materials: Plastic components dominated most models, which kept costs low but made them less durable.
  • Internal Components: Simple boilers and basic mechanisms were sufficient for short-term use but showed wear during extended testing.
  • Longevity: Machines with metal components in key areas, like the portafilter or boiler, fared better over time.

Versatility

We evaluated the flexibility of each machine for brewing and steaming:

  • Coffee Options: Most machines were designed for ground coffee but could also accommodate pods in some cases.
  • Steaming and Frothing: Steam wands worked adequately for small volumes of milk but struggled to achieve microfoam consistency for latte art.
  • Customization: Limited temperature and pressure controls made advanced customization difficult.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential for steam espresso machines. We tested how easy it was to clean and maintain each model:

  • Ease of Disassembly: Removable parts, such as drip trays and portafilters, simplified cleaning.
  • Descaling Process: Many models required manual descaling, as automated features were uncommon.
  • Filter Maintenance: Cleaning portafilters and baskets was straightforward but required regular attention to prevent clogging.

Step 1: Product Selection and Acquisition

We selected a variety of steam espresso machines, focusing on different brands and price points. Our criteria included:

  • Consumer Favorites: Bestselling models with positive reviews were prioritized.
  • Price Range: Machines priced between $50 and $200 were included to reflect the affordability of steam models.
  • Unique Features: Machines with additional features, such as built-in frothers or dual functionality, were also tested.

All products were purchased from reputable retailers to ensure authenticity and consistency in testing conditions.


Step 2: Unboxing and First Impressions

We assessed the packaging, included accessories, and initial impressions of each machine:

  • Packaging Quality: Secure packaging reduces the risk of damage during shipping.
  • Included Accessories: Machines often came with scoops, tampers, and cleaning tools, adding value.
  • Build and Design: Lightweight, compact designs were common, making these machines ideal for small kitchens.

Step 3: Brewing Tests

We conducted multiple brewing tests to evaluate whiteso quality and machine performance:

  • Coffee Beans: A range of beans, from light to dark roasts, was tested to assess versatility.
  • Shot Consistency: Several espresso shots were pulled to evaluate consistency in flavor and strength.
  • Milk Frothing: Steam wands were tested for their ability to froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos.

Step 4: Cleaning and Maintenance

We evaluated how easy it was to clean and maintain each machine:

  • Ease of Disassembly: Machines with removadripspays and portafilters were easier to clean.
  • Descaling: Instructions for manual descaling were followed to evaluate simplicity.
  • Regular Cleaning: Residual grounds and milk buildup were easy to manage with regular cleaning.

Step 5: Long-Term Testing

To simulate extended use, we ran each machine daily for three weeks:

  • Component Wear: Plastic and metal parts were inspected for signs of wear or damage.
  • Performance Consistency: Brewing and steaming performance remained stable throughout testing.

Final Ratings and Recommendations

After completing all tests, we assigned scores based on the following criteria:

  • Espresso Quality (35%)
  • Ease of Use (25%)
  • Build Quality (20%)
  • Versatility (10%)
  • Value for Money (10%)

Top Picks

We highlighted the best models for specific needs:

  • Best Overall Steam Espresso Machine
  • Best Budget Option
  • Best for Beginners
  • Best Compact Design

Conclusion

Steam espresso machines are an affordable and approachable way to start making espresso at home. While they have limitations compared to pump-driven models, they offer convenience and simplicity that many users appreciate. Our rigoroMany types of espresso machines useorld performance, helping you choose the perfect steam espresso machine for your needs.

The Ultimate Guide to Buying the Perfect Steam Espresso Machine

Buying a steam espresso machine can be a daunting task. There are a lot of different options out there, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. This article will help you navigate the world of steam espresso machines, from what type of machine you should buy to how much you should spend on your new espresso machine.

Steam Espresso Machine

A steam espresso machine is a device that brews coffee by forcing hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee. It uses steam to heat the water and then forces it under high pressure through the coffee grounds. The result is a rich, concentrated extract of pure flavor and aroma.

The first espresso machines were developed in Italy in the late 1800s, but they did not become popular until about 150 years later when they were introduced to North America. Today, there are many types of espresso machines available on the market with different features and capabilities.

Why do you need a steam espresso machine?

Whether you’re an espresso aficionado or just looking to make your next cuppa that much more enjoyable, a steam espresso machine is the perfect way to go. With its small footprint and large capacity, this appliance makes it easy to prepare various drinks with ease.

The steam espresso machine can be used for a variety of coffee and hot chocolate beverages, including a rich cappuccino and traditional Espresso. With the added ability to steam milk, this appliance can also be used to prepare lattes, macchiatos, and steamed milk drinks.

What to Look for When Choosing a Steam Espresso Machine

When it comes to choosing the right espresso machine, there is a lot to consider. Various components will affect the overall performance of your machine, and you need to be aware of these components. This article will provide you with some helpful insights on what to look for when buying a steam espresso machine.

Portafilter

A portafilter is a tool that helps you create steamed espresso drinks, coffee beverages, or hot chocolate from ground coffee beans. This device ensures that the coffee grounds are evenly distributed in the filter cone, and it also contains a ball-shaped handle for easy extraction of the beverage. It has a long spout for easy filling and pouring of cups and is available in different sizes to suit your needs.

Temperature control

Temperature control is an essential part of coffee brewing. This allows for the extraction process to happen at the desired temperature, and it’s a good indicator of how fresh your coffee will taste. An espresso machine will typically have a boiler and a steam wand, allowing people to control the temperature themselves.

Coffee Grinder

Espresso machines are typically very complex and offer a wide range of functions. The coffee grinder in an espresso machine is one of the most important features of this type of machine because it helps to grind coffee beans into a finer consistency that is ideal for creating espresso drinks.

The Pump

Most espresso machines today have a standard set of 9 bars of pressure, which means that they can contain an over-pressure valve.

It’s important to look at what advantages a machine has to a certain task. Some may have a higher pressure, some may have more power output, and some might be cheaper. However, the more important thing is how well the pump will be fair in its use. Running a 15-bar capable pump at 9 bars of pressure can reduce stress on the pump, but it won’t protect against poor quality. Avoiding choosing an oversized pump might be best for your current project.

There are different types of electric pumps for Espresso – rotary vane pumps and vibratory pumps.

Vibratory pumps are more affordable, easier to replace, and smaller. Rotary pumps are a bit more pricey but last longer and operate quietly in comparison to the vibratory pump. You need to provide access to some extra space inside the machine when they are larger.

There are two types of electric pumps for Espresso: rotary vane and vibratory. Rotary vane pumps feature a paddle, which is turned by the user to mix and grind the coffee beans with water. Vibratory pumps are more efficient but take more power to operate. They require less frequent maintenance and can pump at a faster rate than rotary-vane pressure pumps.

Brew Group

The brew group is a combination of parts that are used to make coffee. It works with the Espresso coffee machine to get Espresso out of the machine and includes a head, portafilter, and temperature control devices. In the context of an assembly line, the brew group’s main function is to assemble kegs using a sliding arm. They are most commonly found on automatic and semiautomatic machines.

Steam Wand

The steaming wand is located near the group or coffee head. It forces steam into the milk to warm it gently under pressure and adds air to make it foam. Certain pipe materials will be mobility, meaning that one type of pipe may get in the way of a certain machine for the entire life of the machine. Some automatic espresso machines come with a steam wand, and you must use this to produce your beverage.

If you prefer a classic steam wand and want to improve the froth quality of your cappuccino, you should opt for a steam wand tip. If you want to inject some extra air into the milk, an auto-frother tip might be a better choice. If service is your priority, this device will give you perfect textured milk every time.

For a flat white, your textured milk is somewhere between cappuccino and latte; therefore, you will want the classic steam wand tip. For lattes and cappuccinos, you’ll need steamed milk from the steam wand tip. Microfoam helps give flat white’s that distinctive mouthfeel as well as latte art designs.

Pressure Gauge

The pressure gauge is one of the more expensive pieces of equipment that can sometimes be an extra luxury because it allows you to read how much coffee is in a cup before it has even been poured. They’re not necessary, and they are simply used as an extra safety precaution.

Pre–Infusion Function

A coffee machine has the function of pre-infusion. It allows the machine to extract the coffee better by it first infusing water at a lower temperature before the coffee grounds are added. This is perfect for a higher-quality extraction and helps avoid channeling.

Water Reservoir

The key to a good espresso is the amount of pressure and time that it takes for the water to be distributed across the coffee grounds. To ensure this happens quickly, you will need an espresso machine with a water reservoir.

The Machine’s Size

Espresso machines are best known for their taste and convenience. With the price of an espresso machine ranging from $200 to $1,000, the machine’s size is a key factor in its purchase. A smaller machine is easier to store and clean. But a larger machine can make more drinks at once or make drinks with stronger coffee flavors.

Drip Tray function

The espresso machine has several different functions, and one is the Drip Tray function. This feature prevents coffee grounds from dripping onto your countertop or floor. It is a small device that sits about two inches below the coffee machine and collects excess grounds before they splash back into your cup.

Types Of Steam Espresso Machines

There are many types of espresso machines that use steam to create the taste and texture of coffee. The best machine will be able to produce a good-tasting cup of coffee in less than five minutes.

Pump vs. Steam Espresso Machines

A steam espresso machine is a heating system that keeps water at a constant, uniform temperature. This allows for longer steaming times with less energy. A pump espresso machine has an internal pump that pressurizes the water and sends it to the boiler. The boiler heats the water to create steam for pressure, which then pushes hot water through the coffee grinds.

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