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.

DeLonghi ECO310BK 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Machine

If you like getting your jumpstart in the morning from a cappuccino or espresso, you’ll love what the DeLonghi 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Machine has to offer. With 15-bars of pressure, you can expect the perfect temperatures, flavors and aromas. The self-priming pump allows you to pre-set the machine for the morning, while the maker includes a convenient frother and tamper. With options to use ground espresso or ESE pods, you can find your niche within this machine that promises to deliver excellence.

DeLonghi ECO310BK 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Machine Specifications:



Average Price: $350.00

Product Dimensions: 10.2 x 9.1 x 11.8 inches; 11.2 pounds

Pump or Steam: Pump

Pump Pressure: 15 Bars

Color: Piano Black

Warranty: One year

Features: Built-in tamper, removable water tank, steam wand, espresso pod adapter, cup warming plate, self-priming pump

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What’s So Great About the DeLonghi ECO310BK 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Machine?

Dual-Function Filter: This DeLonghi espresso maker has a patented dual-function filter holder that accommodates both ESE pods and ground espresso. The filter leaves plenty of options for the user, plus will allow you to cut down on the cost of using ESE pods only. You can also play around with making your own espressos; something that’s fun to do when you have the time and the patience to make your own espresso. And when you entertain, brew up ground espresso and have decaf ESE pods on hand to serve all your guests.

Temperature: You can’t make the perfect espressos and cappuccinos if you don’t have the right temperatures to work with. The DeLonghi 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Machine has two thermostats that control the water and steam pressure for both espressos and cappuccinos. The end result is hot beverages at just the right temperature, although you will have to warm the machine and mugs the right way to get the hottest temperatures.

User-Friendly: There are so many features that make the DeLonghi 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Machine easy to use and hassle free. The dual-function filter allows you to use ground espresso or convenient ESE pods, while the self-priming option eliminates the need to do the start-up preparation first thing in the morning. The Cappuccino System frother mixes steam and milk to create a rich and creamy froth, while a removable water tank and steam wand add to the practicality of the machine.

Pressure: You can’t get much better than 15-bars of pressure with this DeLonghi espresso machine. Pressure is necessary for getting the right strength and temperature in an espresso, and this maker doesn’t fall short. Even with this amount of pressure, you can still enjoy a quiet machine that won't disturb anyone in the morning. For the affordable price of the espresso maker, buyers are pleased to see this amount of pressure.

What’s Not So Great About the DeLonghi ECO310BK 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Machine.

Frother: There are some issues with the frother on this machine, although this is not uncommon on espresso makers. It seems as if built-in frothers and attachments are always subpar, which is why some people choose to buy a separate frothing pitcher and handheld tamper. In the case of the frother on this espresso maker, it falls off if too much pressure is applied and tends to be a bit flimsy. It also doesn’t stick out that far, so it can be awkward to grasp. Some users were able to work past this issue with a bit of time and patience, but others found that a separate frothing pitcher did the trick instead.

Preparation: Although the DeLonghi 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Machine is designed for simplicity and practicality, it requires the right amount of preparation to produce great results. For the price and the results of this machine, you probably won’t mind taking the necessary steps to prepare your espresso in the morning. But if you want exceptional results with the push of a button, you may be less than satisfied. To get the best results, you’ll want to run warm water through the machine before making a shot, while also running the filter and coffee mug under warm water. This will help keep the espresso at the perfect temperature.

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Is the DeLonghi ECO310BK 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Machine a Great Purchase?

There are many factors that make the DeLonghi 15-Bar-Pump Espresso Machine a terrific purchase. Made by DeLonghi, you know that you’re getting a quality, well-built machine that will stand the test of time and come with a one-year warranty. The espresso maker has plenty of options so that you can brew your own espresso using ground coffee or purchase the convenient ESE pods. The results are always consistent, with delicious tasting espressos that have creamy layers of froth. And with an array of user-friendly features, you can make the perfect beverages from the push of a button. With 15-bars of pressure and a sleek design, this fantastic espresso maker is a smart, affordable addition to any kitchen.

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Nespresso CitiZ C110 Espresso Maker

The Nespresso CitiZ C110 Espresso Maker is a wonderful accent piece to the modern-day kitchen. The single-serve machine uses Nespresso capsules that can be purchased in a variety of flavors such as Roma, Vanilla and Dark Chocolate. The machine holds up to 11 capsules so that you can use the espresso maker multiple times before having to empty it. With options to brew either Espresso or Lungo, you can choose the perfect brew for your taste. The Nespresso CitiZ is attractive, as the design is ultra sleek and compact so that you can fit it anywhere on your countertop. It's fast and efficient, making the espresso maker a top choice for coffee lovers.


Nespresso CitiZ C110 Espresso Maker Specifications:

Average Price: $279.99

Product Dimensions: 8 x 13.5 x 10 inches

Colors: Red, titanium, aluminum

Features: 19 bars of pressure, energy power saving mode, folding drip tray, automatic flow stop, programmable buttons

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What’s So Great About the Nespresso CitiZ C110 Espresso Maker?

Simple: There’s no reason why you can’t enjoy a delicious espresso without the hassle. With the Nespresso CitiZ, you can enjoy perfect cups of espresso in minutes and without any mess on your part. Simply place the mug of your choice under the coffee outlet, hit the “on” switch, insert a capsule, close the lever and press the Espresso or Lungo button. Your drink will be freshly brewed in minutes, with the flow of the coffee varying with the type of coffee that you choose. There’s no need to measure, control temperatures or tamp at various pressures.

Efficient: Not only is the Nespresso CitiZ effortless, but it’s efficient at what it does. With 19-bars of pressure, you can expect that all the aromas and flavors come to life in as little as 30 seconds. Start up time is approximately one minute, so in as little as two minutes, you'll have your cup of espresso. You can also enjoy the perfect amount of crema, giving each espresso the best foamy layer you’ve tasted in a long time. It’s easy to entertain with the Nespresso CitiZ by your side, as the results are always delicious and consistent. Plus, you won’t waste any coffee in the meantime by experimenting with different temperatures, pressures and grinds.

Design: Current owners can’t get enough of this urban-driven machine that is the picture of practicality and simplicity. The Nespresso CitiZ is compact and can fit anywhere you want it to. Even though it’s small, the espresso maker is powerful, with 19-bars of pressure and 1260-watts of power. The single-serve machine is available in black, titanium and aluminum colors so that you can easily match the machine to your current kitchen décor. You can also enjoy programmable volume control and folding cup support so that you can position the piece for a cup or a macchiato glass.

What’s Not So Great About the Nespresso CitiZ C110 Espresso Maker?

Noisy: Yes, this machine is certainly loud. But since it only takes about 30 seconds to brew the espresso, the machine is only loud during this time. The noise comes from the pump, and since the Nespresso CitiZ has some serious pressure, you can expect that this will make some noise. For most people, the noise doesn’t matter, as the sound lets you know that the machine is quality-made and performs true pressure. But if you’re an early riser, this machine may just wake up a few family members.

Capsules: Like any Nespresso machine, you have to buy the capsules directly from Nestle over the internet or phone. The idea of using pods is no longer foreign to most people however, as the majority of single-serve coffee makers utilize these handy pods and capsules. Plus, the pods are what enable you to enjoy a delicious espresso without the preparation and mess. The best tactic is to buy the pods in bulk and purchase a refillable capsule that allows you to get more out of the investment by using your own grinds.

Find more reviews here for the Nespresso CitiZ C110 Espresso Maker, Red

Is the Nespresso CitiZ C110 Espresso Maker a Great Purchase?

The Nespresso CitiZ C110 Espresso Maker is indeed an excellent purchase for espresso lovers who want the enjoyment of drinking espressos without having to balance temperature, pressure and grind. With this machine, all you have to do is pop in a capsule, and a few minutes later, the perfect cup of espresso is brewed. You can expect consistent results and take advantage of the compact design that won’t take up any space in the kitchen. With its refreshing design and programmable features, you will enjoy the Nespresso CitiZ for years to come. Most importantly, the espresso maker produces the best tasting espresso and foamy layer of crema - and you can’t beat that.

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Nespresso Essenza C101 Espresso Maker

If you want great tasting espresso without the hassle, the Nespresso Essenza C101 Espresso Maker is the best option. This machine uses Nespresso capsules that come in a variety of flavors. Simply pop in the capsule, press the button and out comes a delicious cup of espresso – no mess, no fuss. The machine is lightweight and compact, with a sleek and stylish design that looks great in any kitchen. Best of all, you get consistent results and the best tasting espresso – all for an affordable price.

Nespresso Essenza C101 Espresso Maker




Specifications:

Average Price: $249.99

Product Dimensions: 8.1 x 10.2 x 13.5 inches

Features: Backlit on/off, coffee volume buttons, 0.9 Liter removable water tank, 19 bars of pressure

Brews: 40 mL for Espresso, 110 mL for Lungo

Weight: Six pounds

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What’s So Great About the Nespresso Essenza C101 Espresso Maker?

Compact: The Nespresso Essenza C101 is part of a compact line that focuses on practicality and convenience. The espresso maker is not big and bulky like other machines and will sit perfectly on any sized countertop. It weighs in at six pounds, so you can easily clean and maneuver the machine without breaking a sweat. And don’t expect the compact size and lightweight features of this product to compromise quality or style. The Nespresso Essenza C101 is available in black or titanium and sports a stylish, sophisticated design.

Simplistic: Many espresso machines can be tricky to use, taking weeks or even months to get the perfect balance. Not only can this be frustrating for people that just want a good cup of espresso, but also you can waste a lot of coffee this way. With the Nespresso Essenza, you can start brewing up cups of espresso without any effort. A simple touch of a button does the trick, and no formal lessons or tutorials are necessary. Just drop in a Nespresso pod of your choice, push the “on” button and 30 seconds later, your espresso will be done.

Consistent: One of the greatest advantages to pod espresso makers is their consistency. Since you don’t have to balance water temperature, grind size and tamp strength, you can just pop the capsule in and expect the same great results every time. This saves on the headaches and frustration, plus ensures that you won’t waste any coffee in the process. Plus, you never have to worry when you have guests over, as you can let everyone choose their own flavor and get the same consistent results for each.

What’s Not So Great About the Nespresso Essenza C101 Espresso Maker?

Pods: The Nespresso Essenza only takes pod coffees, more specifically, Nespresso capsules. There are many flavors available which is a nice perk, but you are limited to the pods that Nespresso offers and cannot use your own coffee flavors. Fortunately, the Nespresso pod coffees make great tasting espresso, although some people find them a bit weak and watered down. Just remember that you are trading the convenience of not having to actually make your own espressos with using pod coffee varieties. Some users also found that many of the capsules arrive dented, and this can make it more difficult for the bar to open the capsules properly.

Memory: Unlike other machines that have many programmable features, the Nespresso Essenza C101 does not. There are features you can play around with, but you’ll have to re-set them the next time you use the machine. Fortunately, most users don’t mind setting their espresso machines first thing in the morning, but for those that like the convenience of intuitive appliances, this machine falls a bit short.

Temperature: The Nespresso Essenza C101 doesn’t exactly make espresso drinks at the hottest temperature, so if you like your coffee super hot, you’ll have to make some adjustments. Some users simply heat up their espresso cup beforehand so that the espresso is warmer, while others settle for a slightly cooler temperature. But for those that don’t need their espressos to be piping hot, you’ll find the Nespresso machine to be a perfect temperature.

Find more reviews here for the Nespresso Essenza C101 Espresso Maker, Titanium Grey

Is the Nespresso Essenza C101 Espresso Maker a Great Purchase?

If you’re interested in making great tasting espressos without having to balance the ingredients and temperature on your own, the Nespresso Essenza C101 Espresso Maker is the perfect purchase. It has a streamlined design that’s available in black or titanium, and it’s easy to use and works efficiently with Nespresso pods. The machine is low maintenance, so you can expect years of worry-free use. And even though it may not be packed full of features, that means less to break and less to maintain, with the machine focusing solely on making great tasting espresso. With an affordable price tag, this espresso maker won't break the bank, either.

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Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine

The Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine maintains its high-end image within the espresso-loving community. This sophisticated machine has a sleek appearance, matching your stainless steel appliances to a tee. While this machine is designed for average to advanced espresso users, all it takes is a bit of practice to get the machine performing flawlessly. With the right burr grinder, you can achieve perfect results each and every time without having to depend on your local coffee shop.

Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine Specifications:

Average Price: $799.99

Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 11.2 x 13.2 inches; 30 pounds

Features: Three-way solenoid valve, large brass boiler, chrome brass portafilter

Find a great price here for the Rancilio Espresso Machine - Rancilio Silvia

What’s So Great About the Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine?

Quality: Current users have used terms such as “bullet proof” and “built like a tank” to describe the quality of this machine. Of course, you wouldn’t expect any less from Rancilio, but most are still surprised with how heavy and sturdy this machine is. It’s made from cast iron and stainless steel and will far outlast its cheaper alternatives on the market. Users say they use this machine on a daily basis, and without fail, it continues to perform flawlessly.

Performance: The Silvia is built to last, so don’t think you need to scale back on your coffee drinking habit. While users differ in how many espressos they drink on a daily basis, the machine continues to perform perfectly even after years of daily use. With the Silvia, you can entertain all you want, while knowing that your machine will keep up with the demands. And once you get the hang of making espressos with this machine, they will be the same consistent, exceptional quality that they should be.

Results: It’s true that the Silvia takes some getting used to, but once you learn the ropes, this machine will produce consistently brilliant results. Users rave about the quality of espresso that come out of the Silvia, rivaling what the commercial, high-end machines can produce. And since you can finally control all the elements, you won’t have to go to a coffee shop to get yourself a great tasting espresso. It is agreed that to make the results even more superior, a separate tamper is purchased.

What’s Not So Great About the Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine?

Expensive: No one ever said that brewing espressos was an inexpensive hobby. The Rancilio Espresso Machine is no exception, as this machine is a true investment. Even those that love making espressos may have to skip over this machine because it’s just too expensive to bear. That being said, purchasing a mediocre machine means you may have to purchase another one in a few years, while this machine will surely last the long haul.

Advanced: The Silvia is not for beginners, so don’t think this machine is the first step in learning how to make espressos. In fact, this machine takes careful precision, and you will certainly need to do your research to learn how to use it. Fortunately, once you read up on the internet tutorials, you'll find that the Silvia is not as difficult as it first appears. And since espresso making is considered a hobby, most users have no problem investing time and patience into the machine.

Grinder: You must have a quality burr grinder to use with the Silvia, otherwise it will not produce good tasting espressos. A very fine grind is needed with this machine, so you will need to invest in a quality grinder to achieve this level. While it’s not difficult to find a great grinder, you will need to consider this in the overall cost of your espresso making hobby.

Instructions: Users agree that this machine is not for novices, and don’t expect the instructions to be much help. In fact, many users ignored the instructions and went straight to the internet. The good news is that there are plenty of online tutorials and videos that will not only teach you how to use the Silvia, but also how to achieve the perfect temperatures. Just make sure that if you buy this machine, you know how to navigate online videos and instructions.

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Is the Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine a Great Purchase?

The Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine is surely a wonderful purchase for the espresso lover. It is sturdy and strong, attractive and stylish and consistent in its results. Surely, you’ll need to practice a bit at using the machine, but this is what the fun in espresso making is all about. What you can expect with the Silvia is that it’s a workhorse, designed for true coffee lovers and will certainly return the investment with all the money you’ll save from not having to buy espressos from the local coffee shop.

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