Standard Coffee of Espresso

There’s nothing better than being able to brew delicious cups of coffee at home. If you’re in the market for a new coffee maker, you may be wondering if you should stick to the basics or invest in an espresso machine. There are advantages to both machines and really, the decision should be made based on what you drink most: Coffee or specialty drinks. Let’s review the advantages so that you can make the best decision for your coffee drinking style.

A standard coffee maker is ideal for people that like to drink coffee and not much else. These machines have come a long way in recent years, with options to brew one cup or 12 and including handy timers and digital control panels. With the pause ‘n serve feature, you can pour yourself a cup of coffee mid-cycle, and the new pod coffee machines allow you to brew different flavors in single servings.

Espresso makers are more elite than coffee makers, with options to make espressos, cappuccinos or lattes, as well as drip coffee. Since a specialty cup of coffee can cost as much as $5, you save a lot of money just by having this machine in the home. You can experiment all you want with different beverages and have a reason to entertain. Espresso machines offer a range of fun features such as frothers, thermostats and chambers that mix milk and steam.

There are several advantages to choosing a simple coffee maker. Coffee makers are more economically priced and simpler to use, so you’re not overburdened with features you’ll never use. And if you choose to purchase a standard coffee maker that focuses on brewing great coffee instead of features, there’s less to break. Coffee makers are also cheaper and easier to maintain, and they are smaller in size, being ideal for compact spaces. Coffee makers also focus on programmable features, whereas espresso machines need a bit more involvement from the brewer.

If you enjoy drinking specialty coffee drinks, you’ll get the most use out of an espresso machine. These machines are a great choice, as they allow you to brew your standard coffee drinks, as well as make the creamy lattes and cappuccinos that you love. While the machines do cost more, you save on not having to buy coffee drinks, and you can experiment with different flavors, temperatures and frothy blends. These machines are larger however, so make sure you have the space on your countertop.

The bottom line: If you enjoy drinking coffee only, stick to the affordable, hassle-free coffee maker. Otherwise, extend the boundaries and go for a fun espresso machine where the possibilities are endless.