Home espresso makers allow you the convenience of brewing an authentic cup of coffee, espresso or cappuccino on your countertop. Some feature a bar pump, like the kinds at a cafe, and others feature a simple press button. They are an economical way to brew up a cup (or two) whenever the mood strikes and give you the ability to make it to your personal taste.
These espresso makers take the fuss out of brewing your own java as the process has been streamlined to your preferences. While “true” espresso requires a machine, you can get pretty close with more affordable and less delicate coffee makers at home. The AeroPress, uses a rapid, total immersion brewing process and can be used to make espresso at home or on the go. The stovetop coffee maker, first introduced by Bialetti, allows you to brew coffee on your stovetop in less than five minutes.
If you want something more traditional, you might choose the DeLonghi Espresso and Cappuccino maker. This machine brews authentic, barista-quality espressos, cappuccinos or lattes just as you would get at your favorite coffeehouse.
Whichever method you choose to brew, you’ll get an ideal and delicious cup of coffee every single time. And while that latte at the local coffee shop might taste delicious, you’ll get a lot more value — and feel better in the long run — using one of these at-home devices.
1. AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker
The AeroPress is a new kind of coffee press that brews coffee under what many java purists consider to be the most ideal conditions, including proper temperature, total immersion and rapid filtering. This results in delicious coffee with a wide range of flavors without the bitterness and acidity. The press acts as a suction of sorts, pushing down the coffee grinds and pushing out any air that might affect the taste. While this coffee maker is most commonly used in the home kitchen, it is lightweight and durable enough for use when camping, backpacking or traveling.
PROS: The AeroPress brews both espresso-style and regular American style coffee.
CONS: If you need your coffee brewed fast, this might not be the best option.
2. De’Longhi EC155 Espresso and Cappuccino Maker
De’Longhi’s Espresso and Cappuccino Maker guarantees every cup is to your liking with its 15-bar professional pressure that assures quality results every time. It also has adjustable controls that allow you to make modifications for your personal taste preferences, whether you prefer espresso or cappuccino, and comes with a dual function filter holder so you can use ground coffee as normal or convenient coffee pods for faster prep.
PROS: This comes with two separate thermostats which allow for water and steam pressure to be controlled separately, allowing you to always brew espresso at the right temperature.
CONS: Requires some time to familiarize yourself with it.
3. Bialetti 06800 Moka Stove Top Coffee Maker
The Bialetti Moka Express is a stovetop coffee maker that produces a rich, authentic espresso in just minutes. The aluminum pot features a distinctive eight-sided shape that allows it to diffuse heat perfectly to enhance the aroma of your coffee. It’s a trusted and simple way to make coffee and has been around since the 1930s. Add water, coffee grounds, screw the top on and place on the stove. Once the water heats up, the espresso will fill the top chamber and be ready to drink.
PROS: When making coffee, the handle and knob stay cool on the stovetop.
CONS: Requires a stovetop. This model does not work with induction stovetops.