For coffee lovers who want to brew the perfect espresso at home, a piston coffee maker is an essential appliance. A piston coffee maker gives you complete control over the brewing process, from grinding the beans to extracting the espresso. But what should you look for when buying a piston coffee maker? In this article, we'll explain the key factors to consider so you can choose the machine that best suits your needs.
What is a piston machine?
A piston coffee machine, also called an espresso machine with a portafilter, is a type of coffee maker that allows you to manually make espresso. The key feature of a piston coffee machine is that you place the ground coffee beans in a portafilter (or piston), press it, and the machine forces hot water through the coffee under pressure. These machines are often used by baristas because they offer great control over the taste and quality of the espresso.
What should you pay attention to when buying a piston machine?
1. The piston machine type
Piston machines come in different types, depending on how much control you want over the coffee brewing process. Choose a machine based on your expertise and the level of control you want during the brewing process.
- Manual piston machines require you to manually flow water through the coffee using a lever. This offers maximum control, but also requires experience.
- Semi-automatic piston machines are the most popular for home use. You operate the machine yourself to start and stop the extraction, but the pressure and water temperature are regulated automatically.
- Automatic piston machines handle the entire process, except for filling the portafilter. This can be useful if you want to brew a consistent espresso quickly.
2. Quality of the espresso pump
The pump is responsible for creating the necessary pressure to brew a good espresso. Ideally, the pump should deliver at least 9 bar of pressure to produce a rich and full-bodied espresso. Higher-quality piston machines can deliver pressure up to 15 bar, which ensures even better extraction of the coffee beans.
3. Material and build quality
A good piston machine will last for years, but it's important that it's made of sturdy materials. Stainless steel machines are robust, wear-resistant, and heat-resistant. Cheaper plastic models can wear out or crack more quickly over time. Also consider the quality of the portafilter: a heavy-duty metal portafilter retains heat better, which is crucial for consistent extraction.
4. Heating time and temperature stability
Water temperature is crucial for a good espresso. A piston machine must be able to heat up quickly and maintain a stable temperature during extraction. Check if the machine has a good boiler or thermoblock, which can heat the water efficiently and maintain a consistent temperature.
5. Size and capacity
Piston machines vary in size and capacity. If you have limited countertop space, a compact model is ideal. You also need to consider the water tank capacity and how often you plan to use the machine. For someone who brews several cups a day, a larger water tank is more practical. For occasional use, a smaller tank will suffice.
6. Price and brand
Piston machines can range in price from a few hundred euros to several thousand, depending on the brand and features. Well-known brands like De'Longhi and Sage offer reliable, high-quality machines. However, you should also consider your budget and how much you're willing to invest.
7. Steam wand for frothing milk
If you love cappuccino or latte, a steam wand is an essential part of your piston coffee machine. This allows you to froth milk for a creamy foam on top. Not all piston coffee machines have a steam wand, so if you prefer milk coffee, choose a machine with a powerful steam wand that can generate steam effectively.
Summary
Choosing the right piston coffee machine depends on your personal preferences, coffee routine, and budget. Pay close attention to factors such as the type of machine, the quality of the pump, the construction materials, and any additional features like a steam wand.
Whether you're just starting to make espresso yourself or are an experienced barista, there's a piston machine that suits your needs and ensures you can optimally enjoy freshly ground coffee beans and a perfect espresso.