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Espresso machines come in hundreds of varieties - there are the simplest candle driven models to the very high technology, dual thermostat and multiple-chamber machines you see in today’s cafes. Despite these complexities, espresso machines have very basic cores - they are either steam- or pump- driven.

Types of espresso machines

Steam espresso machines. These are the simplest kinds of espresso machines, as they work by pressure. How exactly do they work? Water boils in an airtight container below the machine. The water becomes steam, and then forces its way through the coffee grounds, and eventually into a coffee cup.

There are different types of steam espresso machines -the stovetop version and the electric version. They work on the same principle, except that the stovetop machine only relies on the heat of the stove to produce steam, while the electric version uses an electric coil to heat the water.

Pump espresso machines. Pump espresso machines do not wait for the water to heat up and become steam. They pump the water through the coffee at a temperature that is a little cooler. Coffee experts say that pump espresso machines create more superior espresso than the steam machines, provided they are used correctly.

There are different types of pump espresso machines. There is the electronic pump that most modern coffee houses use. They are very accurate, because you can calibrate the temperature according to your liking. There are also pump espresso machines with manual levers. It takes a lot of skill to master this type of machine, so don’t invest in one unless you have a ‘barista’ background. For the less gifted, the automatic pump is the way to go. It does virtually everything by itself - it grinds the coffee beans, tamps and pumps.