One important point of discussion when discussing espresso machines is when you are trying to find automatically-operated machines or manually-operated machines. Think of it like a car – the automatic ones are much easier to learn, and often take the guesswork out of switching gears and can save you hassle over the years. However, once you learn a manual, many folks swear they would never go back to an automatic machine and also can get much better gas mileage than their automatic cousins.

It is much the same way when trying to figure out which kind of espresso machines are better for you. There are really 4 subcategories when you are discussing this topic – there are completely manual machines, semi-automatic machines, regular automatic machines and “very” automatic machines. The manual ones can come in up to three configurations generally (single boiler, dual-use; single boiler, heat-exchanger; and dual-boiler machines). The semi-automatic machines generally have some aspect of temperature control or otherwise that is automatically-controlled; regular-automatic machines generally have more push-button functionality; and “very” automatic machines do literally everything with generally one or a few button pushes – from the grind to the final product.

Most semi-automatic machines come in the stripes listed out for the manual above (single boiler, dual-use; single boiler, heat-exchanger; and dual-boiler machines). Most automatics are generally regarded as “cheaper” (in the sense as not as well made or highly-regarded) because they are easier to operate and require more professional maintenance due to their automated components – which is generally not just a “take this piece out and replace” requirement. One important aspect is how the water flows – the preset amounts take out guesswork defined by users in the semi-automatic and manual models.

Usually, when commercial environments are considered, as opposed to home espresso enthusiasts, the more automated machines make more sense. Think about it – if you are trying to make quality espresso-based drinks as fast as possible and still maintain a good coffee, the more automatic the better. These machines also obviously offer consistency that the other models do not. However, for the home espresso maker, the non-automatic nature of some machines may be part of the charm.