You may be wondering, what exactly is so super about super-automatic espresso makers? Do these machines contain mysterious, fantastical powers? It’s true that although these devices can’t fly like some superheroes, they can create tremendously great cups of coffee that’ll leave you in awe.
Small but mighty, super-automatic espresso machines take the humble coffee bean and turn it into a first-rate hot beverage. You simply press a few buttons, and hey presto, the appliance will get to work grinding, brewing, and dispensing your drink—all in less than 30 seconds! Some will add a heavenly froth to your cup of Joe. And some will even automatically give themselves a clean and a rinse without you having to lift a finger.
Unlike manual or semi-automatic espresso makers that need you to pre-grind the beans, attach a portafilter, or sometimes even pull your own shot, super-automatics require far less input from you. Simply ensure that the device is loaded with the correct amount of beans and water—the super-automatic will take it from there. Some of these nifty little machines even come with wireless connectivity, meaning you can control, program, and operate them through an app. Simple to use, convenient, and delivering delicious cups of espresso. What’s not to love?
If you crave the flexibility of choice when it comes to your coffee, then super-automatics have got you covered. Not only do they serve up premium quality espressos, but they also provide the option of adding steamed and frothed milk. Many of these coffee makers come with a steam wand or automatic milk frother—perfect if you like to switch up your caffeine fix from time to time.
Flat whites, lattes, Americanos with a dash of milk, you name it, the super-automatic can make it. Plus, several models of super-automatics create fabulous café crèmes. This popular coffee drink is a delicious, less strong version of an espresso. For some people, the fact they can own an espresso machine that serves this up is enough to get their wallets out!
From novice to connoisseur, any espresso lover will benefit from having a super-automatic coffee maker in their home. These espresso machines combine outstanding features and functionality with barista-style coffee. If you love your coffee, nothing can compare to the convenience and quality these devices provide.
And as with any home appliance, there’s a wide range of brands and models to choose from. Not to mention a pretty extensive price range to pick from, too! So, where do you start when you’re looking to buy one of these espresso makers? It’s a good idea to understand what differentiates a standard super-automatic espresso machine from one with additional features and functions. Let’s take a look at this now.
A Buyer’s Guide—Features of Super-Automatic Espresso Machines
Internal Brew Group
The brew group refers to a super-automatic espresso maker’s brew system. This mechanism automatically performs the functions required for creating high-quality cups of espresso. These functions include processing the ground coffee from the machine’s grinder, tamping, grind pre-soaking, brewing, and grind dumping. There’s no need to step in and give the device any assistance throughout this process. And the brew group will automatically reset and prepare for the next drink without you having to lift a finger.
The Grinder
Each super-automatic espresso maker comes with its own conical burr grinder. (The quality of which may vary from brand to brand and model to model.) These types of grinders are designed to be reliable and durable. Their tempered steel cutting surfaces optimize the successful grinding of coffee beans to produce top-quality espresso shots.
The ground level of the beans can be adjusted according to your preference and the type of drink you want to create, such as very fine or coarse. And there’s no fiddling about or complicated gadgetry to play around with. Simply press the brew button, and the machine gets to work. According to your instructions, the appropriate number of whole coffee beans kept in the device’s bean hopper is automatically fed into the grinder and ground.
The Drinks
Suppose you’re simply looking for an espresso machine that’ll deliver your espresso shot quickly and with minimum fuss. In that case, there are many models on the market to choose from, and you won’t necessarily require a super-automatic one. However, perhaps you like to vary your repertoire. For example, some days you want your coffee strong, others less so, and sometimes you like to add milk to your drink. For variety and flexibility, the super-automatic is a better buy.
Rather than serving up endless shots of the same espresso, super-automatic machines are equipped to brew a multitude of coffee drinks. Crave a cappuccino as soon as you wake up? Need a latte fix after lunch? Fancy a macchiato when you get home from work? A super-automatic espresso machine can handle your various orders.
Plus, you can even get the device to remember precisely how you like your drinks. Easily programmable, the espresso machine will deliver your favorite hot beverage consistently and to the highest quality. It’ll remember how strong you like your brew, how much hot water to add, and how you want your milk.
Design and Size
Naturally, you’ll want your espresso machine to look good as well as produce outstanding cups of coffee. Not all super-automatic models are the same. The size, dimensions, weight, color, materials, and overall aesthetic vary from appliance to appliance. If you have limited space to place your coffee maker, you’ll need to look for ones that take up less space.
If you plan on moving the device from the kitchen counter to a cupboard after every use, you’ll require a more lightweight one. And if looks matter to you, you’ll be wanting a more stylish version that’ll blend in perfectly with your home.
The design doesn’t just refer to aesthetics; it also applies to a machine’s ease of use. Does it have buttons and switches or a touchscreen? How easy is it to remove various parts for cleaning? Can you connect it wirelessly so you can use your phone or tablet to operate it? These are all questions you’ll need to ask. And everyone is different. Some people might prefer an appliance with extra features. Others may desire a simpler device without all the bells and whistles of a premium model.
All super-automatic espresso makers have their own strengths and weaknesses. The key is to identify the drinks you want your machine to produce while considering the ideal style and size and how you prefer to operate it. The great thing is there’s a range of models to suit any budget, so shop around, and you’re sure to find the perfect super-automatic for your caffeine needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth me buying a super-automatic espresso machine?
Are you someone who craves your daily fix of caffeine? Do you find yourself making several trips to your favorite coffee shop every week? In that case, super-automatic machines are a convenient, simple way to satisfy your coffee cravings while saving you money in the long run. Yes, they can seem pricey at first. But if you calculate how much you spend on takeout coffee every year, you’ll see that these devices are an ideal investment. Durable, reliable, and long-lasting, super-automatic espresso machines will make you consistently high-quality coffee drinks for years and years.
How does a super-automatic espresso machine work?
Think of a super-automatic espresso machine as your personal coffee shop and barista. These relatively small appliances contain everything needed to get from bean to cup. They’re equipped with all the essential tools a professional coffee house uses to create exceptional cups of coffee. The process is fully automated after selecting just a few settings, from grinding to brewing, controlling dosage and strength, tamping, heating, and steaming milk.
Do super-automatic espresso machines require a lot of cleaning and maintenance?
One thing that may put people off buying their own coffee maker is the misconception that they’re difficult and fiddly to clean. But many models come with automatic cleaning programs, including ones in which the milk steam wand is cleaned after each use.
Plus, many appliances will alert you when any part needs changing, emptying, or cleaning, such as the drip tray, bean hopper, water tank, and dreg drawer. The cleaning and maintenance will differ in frequency depending on the model and make and how often you use the machine. Generally, brew groups need a weekly clean. The whole machine usually requires descaling every three months or so (this also depends on what type of filter the device uses).
The Takeaway
Super-automatic espresso machines pack a punch. Not just with the superior espresso drinks they produce but also with their ease of use and convenience. Hopefully, this article has given you some idea of how these devices work and how they can fit your coffee-drinking needs. We’ve taken a look at some of their features and functions and what you should look out for when buying your own piece of coffee-making excellence.
Purchasing your own super-automatic machine doesn’t have to be stressful. Give yourself a budget and list the things you’re looking for relating to size, style, functions, extra features, user interface, and take it from there. Do some research, shop around, and read reviews. Before long, you’ll have access to barista-style coffee in the comfort of your own home. Brew-ti-ful!