When you are in the market for an espresso machine you need to know which are the most important features to make the right choice. Since almost every manufacturer has more than one make and model you need to be a saavy consumer. Coffee houses see what other houses are using when picking out their espresso machines or use their knowledge to pick the best. Sometimes even the most sophisticated coffee consumer might need some help in picking out the best espresso machines on the market. Read on to learn how to buy one for your kitchen.



You know you have found a good espresso machine if it has a built-in grinder. A grind dial is usually present as well so that you know you are getting the right kind of grind. You need to calibrate your grinder and your new machine if you don't have a built-in grinder. Some grinder machines are set to a moka grinder which could be too coarse for your espresso machine. You might need to experiment with the right grind after a few shots of espresso. The right one should be about 2 ounces of espresso in 27 seconds from a double basket.

A good espresso machine should be able to take grinds that are of more than one thickness. You can tell if a machine is good because the grinds won't become stuffed up or jammed if they are on the coarse side. The best machines will have a check valve that allow them to go through grinds that need more pressure. There is a best pressure for extraction and higher pressures don't give this best flavor. You might even get a way too bitter espresso in this case.

The better your machine the less noise it should make. If your machine is too noisy it is not as good. You should always be able to hear your friend or partner in your kitchen when your espresso machine is going. If you can speak over your machine you can be able to tell your friends how yummy your espresso is before they even try it!