Espresso machines can add plenty of convenience to Canadian households. They can also save you some money, if you are used to going out for coffee in the morning or in the afternoon. You can also get to personalise your espresso more to your liking. With so many espresso machine options available, you may be struggling to find the right one.
We have compiled a list of the best espresso machines in Canada of 2023. Based on features important to Canadians and plenty of in-depth research, we uncovered the best on offer. Here’s what the best espresso machines can offer you.
6 Best Espresso Machines for Canadians in November 2023
- Best Overall: Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine
- Best Luxury: Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine
- Best Steaming: Breville Café Roma Espresso Machine
- Best Features: De’Longhi 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
- Best Cafe Quality: Breville the Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
- Best Range: Nespresso Vertuo Next Expresso Machine
Why Did We Choose These Espresso Machines in Canada?
We chose each of the best espresso machines in Canada for a reason. During our evaluation process, we identified areas where each option stood out. These standout features became the reason we recommended these espresso machines to you. Here is why we chose each of the options on our list.
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is our best overall choice. This option has a built-in conical burr grinder with integrated dose control. Those seeking rich flavour in their espresso should consider this choice, as it allows you to grind coffee beans before using them. The machine comes with interchangeable filters and automatic or manual settings.
When it comes to luxury, no one beats the super-automatic Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine. This option can make five different coffee options, and it allows you to choose your preferred aroma, grind, and more. It does the work for you!
The Breville Café Roma Espresso Machine is the best espresso machine in Canada for steaming. This semi-automatic option is simple to use and offers a ton of simple features, making it great for beginners and experienced baristas alike.
The De’Longhi 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino Machine offer a host of helpful features, including an adjustable tray, steaming wand, adjustable flavour controls, and a simple-to-use portafilter.
The Breville the Bambino Plus Espresso Machine is a programmable option that brings café quality to your home. The machine is a compact choice that saves on counter space and includes precise espresso extraction. The Breville delivers balanced taste with a silky mouthfeel.
The Nespresso Vertuo Next Espresso Machine offers a great range with 5 different cup sizes and an easy one-touch interface that is user-friendly and intuitive. The patented Centrifusion extraction system delivers high-quality taste and body, while the 2-minute automatic shut-off feature offers energy efficiency.
Best Overall
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine
- Type: Automatic, Manual
- Size: 35.05 x 31.75 x 40.39 cm
- Programmable Settings: 2
- Water Tank Size: 2 liters
- Pressure Bars: 9
It's Great For:
- Canadians seeking full flavour
- Those looking for versatility
- Quick great tasting espresso
- Authentic café-like results
The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is a great overall choice that allows you to easily switch between automatic and manual operation. The sleek brushed stainless steel look of the machine provides enhanced visual appeal to any Canadian household. With this espresso machine, you can grind your own beans then proceed to the extraction. There are interchangeable filters available so you can always get the best quality espresso with a few simple steps.
With this espresso machine from Breville, you can become your own personal barista at home. Using the right dosage of ground coffee, between 19 and 22 grams, you can then create a balanced cup thanks to the digital temperature control that delivers precise water temperature. The high pressure extraction process then ensures that the final result is creamy and delivers a velvety mouthfeel.
The espresso machine comes with a built-in conical burr grinder, along with a thermocoil heating system and a steam wand that lets you create delicate micro-foam milk texture. There are volumetric controls available on the machine that can be used as presets or as customised settings for single or double shots.
The Barista Express has an analogue gauge button control for that retro feel, and has a compact footprint despite its many features. With this machine, you can easily make a great-tasting cup of espresso in less than a minute. From start to finish, you can control the process and get an espresso that best suits your preferences. This high performance machine can let you enjoy the café experience in your own home, without having to go out or spend more.
Key Features
- Automatic and Manual Switch. You can use automatic or manual functions when operating this machine for more versatility.
- Built-In Grinder. Before you make your espresso, you can grind your own coffee beans using the integrated conical burr grinder.
- Interchangeable Filters. The interchangeable filters contribute to the quality of the coffee and the long-lasting functionality of the machine.
- Steam Wand. The steam wand creates micro-foam milk texture with ease, adding body and flavour.
Our Expert’s Take
“This espresso machine delivers top-notch quality. A built-in grinder, interchangeable filters, and a steam wand help meet all of your espresso needs.”
Best Luxury
Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine
- Type: Super-Automatic
- Size: 25.4 x 43.2 x 38.1cm
- Programmable Settings: 6
- Water Tank Size: 12 servings
- Pressure Bars: Variable
It's Great For:
- Canadians who want to enjoy different types of coffee
- Those who also like to grind their own beans
- Users with different preferences for strength, aroma, coffee quality, and milk
- Coffee aficionados who prefer a nice milk foam to go with their coffees
Luxury espresso makers usually host a ton of useful features, and that’s the case with the Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine. This option does everything you could possibly need when it comes to espresso, but it also features additional functionality for multiple different types of coffee. The touch controls feature a ton of different options, including settings for four more coffee varieties. In addition to espresso, this machine can make standard coffee, Americano, Latte Macchiato, and cappuccino. There’s a preset button for each option, as well as multiple other settings to enhance your coffee experience.
You can choose the strength, aroma, and milk for your coffee, as well as the bean quality. The grinder on top of the machine has 12 different grind settings, so you can choose how you want your fresh beans made. After that, the other settings allow you to customize your coffee and milk steaming to create your perfect cup every time.
LatteGo, the milk steaming system included with this machine, is one of the simplest and most effective available on the Canadian market. There are no tubes to clean, so it’s remarkably clean for an internal steaming system. The milk only travels between two different pieces, both of which can be rinsed easily with warm water. It’s simple to keep this part of the machine clean, which can ease your mind about using it. It’s also quick, as steaming milk in the standard way (with a steaming wand) can take time. When you’re in a hurry, this is the machine you want to make your latte.
In addition, the AquaClean filter helps you enjoy more coffee before you have to descale the water tank, too. This filter helps remove impurities and hard minerals from the water inside the tank. This means you won’t have to clean the interior of the tank as often as you might with other machines.
Key Features
- LatteGo. With this system, the espresso machine provides an easy steaming process with a to-go container included. It elevates all of your espresso to coffee-shop quality.
- 5 Coffee Options. This espresso machine can be used to also make Americano, latte macchiato, and cappuccino. Multiple coffee options mean it fits all your needs.
- In-Depth Grinder. The built-in grinder has 12 adjustments that allow you to get the best ground coffee. No matter what you like, you’ll get the right grind for you.
- Intuitive Display. The touchscreen display is user-friendly and offers various adjustment options. It’s simple to see your different options and make changes when necessary.
Our Expert’s Take
“The Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine is a luxury machine with a lot of options, so you can make your espresso drinks exactly how you like them.”
Best Steaming
Breville Cafe Roma Espresso Machine
- Type: Semi-Automatic
- Size: 23.5 x 22.9 x 29.8cm
- Programmable Settings: None
- Water Tank Size: 1.2 liters
- Pressure Bars: 15
It's Great For:
- Canadians who are experienced with espresso
- Those who want to steam milk as part of their espresso drink
- Users who want both single and double shots
- Those who want a simple espresso experience
The Breville Café Roma Espresso Machine is a manual espresso maker that makes espresso simple. While other machines have multiple settings and features to contend with, this machine allows you to get to the best part of making espresso: the coffee itself! There are two settings in this machine. First, the espresso setting helps extract the best flavour from your espresso beans. The steam function, on the other hand, helps you texture your milk to perfection. Both settings are simple to select with the control knob on the front of the machine.
This machine features a removable drip tray to help make cleaning simple. It also includes filters for a single or double shot, so you can make your coffee exactly how you like it. The high-powered steam wand is simple to use and adjustable, so you can make your milk simply and without any fuss. Want to keep your coffee warm while you steam your milk? The warming tray helps keep your coffee ready to drink while you prep other parts of your beverage.
The Café Roma features a Thermoblock heating system, which maintains the perfect, accurate temperature for extracting the best espresso. 15 bars of pressure work perfectly with the Advanced Dual Wall Crema system inside the machine. Together, they produce a rich espresso with the fluffiest, most flavourful crema you could ask for. If you appreciate a good amount of crema with your espresso, this is the machine to choose. A full 1,000 watts of power makes this machine effective and quick, so you’ll have your favorite espresso or cappuccino in no time at all.
The water tank is large enough for several shots without the need to refill. You can track the level of the 1.2-liter water tank with the handy viewing window, so you’ll always be aware of how much water you have left. While this machine won’t grind your favourite espresso beans, it will make some of the best coffee possible from your grounds. It’s simple to use and doesn’t get bogged down with unnecessary settings or programs.
Key Features
- Stylish Look. This Breville option features a sleek and stylish look that adds visual appeal to your countertop. It’s a great choice for modern kitchens.
- Efficient Steaming. The espresso machine delivers quick and easy steaming. It comes with a jug for easily adding your steamed milk to your beverages.
- 2 Simple Settings. You can easily switch from espresso making to steaming with the switch of the knob on the front of the machine. There are no complicated setting changes required.
- Easy to Use. The espresso machine is good for beginners and connoisseurs, as it is intuitive to use.
Our Expert’s Take
“This stylish espresso machine offers expert espresso brewing, as well as a built-in steaming option. The simple settings make it simple to switch from one function to another.”
Best Features
De'Longhi 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino Maker
- Type: Semi-Automatic
- Size: 18.4 x 24.4 x 30.2 cm
- Programmable Settings: None
- Water Tank Size: 37 ounces
- Pressure Bars: 15
It's Great For:
- Those who like cappuccinos as well as espresso
- Canadians who are concerned with the look of their kitchen
- Users who prefer manual steamers with rich textures
- Those who want customizable control over their coffee experience
De’Longhi’s 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino Machine is packed full of useful features. You’ll be making coffee like a professional barista in no time at all! If you’re willing to test out the machine and look at all of the different features available, you’ll have a great time getting the most out of this machine.
The water tank is removable, making it easier to remove and refill. You can see exactly how much water is in it this way, so you don’t have to guess while you’re filling it up at an awkward angle. In addition, the tray on the front of the unit is completely adjustable to fit your cup size. If you want a larger cup, you can remove the tray altogether to fit some of your taller cups.
The manual milk steamer doesn’t require much movement, so it’s much easier for you to learn how to use it. Unlike other machines, some of which may require a large amount of skill and practice, this steamer can be learned quickly. On the other hand, the espresso machine’s portafilter is a 3-in-1 model. This means it can hold a single espresso shot, a double, or a single-serve espresso pod. You can use whatever type of grounds you want to get a great result with this espresso machine.
This machine also excels at making delicious cappuccinos. It’s one of the only makers we’ve seen with a no-waiting system for making multiple cappuccinos at once. It’s great for entertaining, or when you just need a bit more of a boost. The Rapid Cappuccino system helps keep the temperature at optimal levels, so you don’t have to wait before brewing another. Altogether, these features create an espresso machine that is simple to learn and easy to use. The convenience features made it stand out on our list.
Key Features
- Adjustable Tray. The tray of the espresso machine can be easily adjusted depending on the cup size used.
- Removable Water Tank. The water tank can be easily removed and then placed back whenever needed, and you can always check the water levels.
- Manual Milk Steamer. The manual steamer is intuitive to learn so beginners don’t have to worry. It also offers more precise control.
- Great for Cappuccinos. Canadian cappuccino fans should consider this option as it can be used to make a great cappuccino right at home.
Our Expert’s Take
“The De’Longhi 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino Machine is a practical choice. The adjustable tray is useful for different cup sizes, the removable water tank is simple to fill, and the manual milk steamer is extremely simple to learn.”
Best Cafe Quality
Breville the Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
- Type: Automatic
- Size: 29.97 x 19.56 x 32 cm
- Programmable Settings: 1
- Water Tank Size: 1.9 litres
- Pressure Bars: 9
It's Great For:
- Canadians looking for café flavour
- Those seeking quick heat up
- Automatic milk texturing
- People seeking compact models
The Breville the Bambino Plus Espresso Machine is a stylish option with a button control interface and the option for café quality microfoam in just a few steps. The machine comes with a Thermojet heating system that has everything heated up in just 3 seconds. Once the machine is ready to go, Canadians can use the right amount of ground coffee to get the best results, usually 19 grams combined with the 54 mm portafilter. The pre-infusion follows a low pressure process that then increases little by little to preserve flavour from the beans. Once the cup is finished, you can then use the automatic micro-foam steam wand to add texture and body to your espresso.
This machine delivers full-bodied flavourful coffee, but uses a compact footprint to do so. It is one of the narrower espresso machines available, so you should consider it if you have limited space. The espresso machine automatically delivers precise milk temperature, so you won’t have to worry about that while you are making coffee. The electronic PID temperature control also ensures that water is at the correct level for the coffee.
When you want to combine your espresso with milk, you can choose between 3 adjustable temperatures and texture levels. Once the milk has been steamed, the steaming jug will automatically purge for additional convenience. The machine comes with a dual wall filter basket, cleaning tools, a precision dose trimming tool, and a milk jug.
Key Features
- Quick Heating. The Thermojet heating system heats up within 3 seconds, getting the machine ready for use. You won’t have to wait for it to heat up.
- Automatic Steam Wand. The micro-foam steam wand can automatically add steamed milk to your espresso without extra effort on your side.
- Temperature Control. Both the milk and the water used for the machine are kept at the right temperature at all times, so you can make your favourite drinks quickly.
- Automatic Purge. The milk jug will be automatically purged once it has been used, making it easier to clean and to maintain.
Our Expert’s Take
“Breville’s Bambino Plus Espresso Machine is extremely efficient. An automatic steam wand and fast heating make this a great option for Canadians on the go.”
Best Range
Nespresso Vertuo Next Espresso Machine
- Type: Automatic
- Size: 15.24 x 35.56 x 30.48 cm
- Programmable Settings: 1
- Water Tank Size: 1.1 litres
- Pressure Bars: N/A
It's Great For:
- Canadians looking for range
- Various cup sizes
- Smooth crema
- Those looking for easy interface
The Nespresso Vertuo Next Espresso Machine is a convenient option that offers 5 cup sizes, ranging from espresso to coffee and carafe. This allows Canadians to get a great range of options depending on what they need their coffee to be on each particular day. With this espresso machine, you also have easy access to a smooth crema that can be added to each cup. The Centrifusion patented extracted system used by Nespresso creates flavourful coffee with ease.
The intuitive interface features a one-touch system that is user-friendly. This system guides you through using each capsule to create the perfect cup of coffee at any point during the day. Once you place a capsule into the espresso machine, it will light up to show that it recognises it and will then proceed to extract the capsule and turn it into a great hot drink for you.
The Vertuo Next takes 30 seconds to heat up. It offers convenient cup support and practical use thanks to the one-touch button on top. Once the machine has stopped, it will automatically turn off after 2 minutes, which makes it a safe and more energy efficient option, which could be an appealing trait to many Canadians. This espresso machine updates itself on an automatic basis, so it will always be ready to provide you with a quick and tasty cup whenever you want to use it.
Key Features
- Great Range. From a small cup of espresso to a pour-over carafe, this espresso machine offers a range of options. You’ll have everything you need for great coffee drinks.
- Quick Heat-Up Process. Once you turn the espresso machine on, it will heat up within 30 seconds. You won’t have to wait long if you are in a hurry.
- One-Touch Interface. This interface is intuitive to use and will do most of the work for you once you press the button.
- Auto Shut-Off. The automatic shut-off process kicks in once the machine has been stopped for 2 minutes. There’s no way you can forget to turn it off.
Our Expert’s Take
“This capsule espresso machine offers great range and a user-friendly interface. Multiple options and a great extraction method make this machine ideal for multiple applications.”
Comparing the Best Espresso Machines for Canadians
| Category | Espresso Machine | Type | Programmable Settings | Tank Size | Pressure Bars |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine | Automatic, Manual | 2 | 2 litres | 9 |
| Best Luxury | Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine | Super-Automatic | 6 | 12 servings | Variable |
| Best Steaming | Breville Cafe Roma Espresso Machine | Semi-Automatic | None | 1.2 litres | 15 |
| Best Features | De'Longhi 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino Maker | Semi-Automatic | None | 37 ounces | 15 |
| Best Cafe Quality | Breville the Bambino Plus Espresso Machine | Automatic | 1 | 1.9 litres | 9 |
| Best Range | Nespresso Vertuo Next Espresso Machine | Automatic | 1 | 1.1 litres | N/A |
How We Selected These Espresso Machines in Canada
Over the past several years, we’ve paid attention to different trends in the home space. We look for trends in kitchen appliances, mattresses, lifestyle products, and more. We are now using our experience to help recommend the best products possible. Here, we looked at the best espresso machines in Canada. We combined information from our expert evaluations and in-depth analysis to produce our list of the best options.
We evaluated based on the following performance areas.
- Type of Machine. There are several types of espresso machines, and most are classified based on how much you have to do to produce a great cup of coffee. We’ve included options everyone should be comfortable with, including semi-automatic machines, automatic options, and super-automatic features.
- Size. The size of the espresso machine matters, especially when you consider the size of your kitchen. Espresso machines can get quite large, especially when they have many additional features. If you want a larger espresso machine and have counter space to hold it, great! If you don’t, we’ve included some options for you as well.
- Settings. Settings can make all the difference, especially if you’re looking for a more capable espresso machine. A range of settings is important, both simple and more complicated. We tried to include as many options as possible in the machines we recommended to you.
- Additional Features. Espresso machines can have a lot of other features, including grinders, steamers, and different filtering options. We looked for machines with a wide range of additional features, so you can have as simple or complex a machine as you want.
Important Considerations about Espresso Machines in Canada
Espresso machines are one of the most variable small kitchen appliances available on the Canadian market. There are so many things that an espresso machine can do, and each machine can have a host of unique and useful features. Some options have steamer wands, for instance. Others use grinders to help get you the freshest beans, and some can create a variety of different coffees.
It’s also worth noting that espresso machines can be difficult to operate. If you are new to espresso, it’s important to choose a simple machine with just a few settings and options. You can always upgrade when you become more familiar with the process, as it’s not at all similar to standard coffee makers.
Before you start shopping for an espresso machine, you should consider how you plan to use it. Consider the features you need, and how often you plan to make espresso or other types of coffee. Do you want foamed milk or steamed milk with your coffee? Do you want to grind your own beans or use pre-packaged grounds instead? Before you can consider the type of espresso machine you need, these are important questions you should answer.
Once you understand more about your needs when it comes to an espresso machine, you can start shopping.
How to Choose an Espresso Machine for Canadians
Once you know what type of espresso machine you need, it can be easier to find the option that works best for you. Espresso machines fulfill different needs, and some users may prefer a different type of machine for their kitchen. The following features and options can help you choose the espresso machine that works best for your lifestyle, whether you prefer espresso shots daily or only use it for special occasions.
Type of Machine
There are a few different types of espresso machines. Most of the options we looked at on our list of the best espresso machines in Canada are pump-driven machines, meaning that you don’t have to manually press the espresso using a lever system. Even within pump-based machines (which are the most common, especially in cafes), there are different options. Mostly, these are centred around what your role should be in the espresso process.
- Semi-automatic espresso machines feature a machine-regulated water pressure and temperature. You can’t control these features. However, you can control the grinding and tamping process for your grounds, as well as the extraction time required to achieve the perfect cup. These machines don’t stop the flow of the water, either – you’ll have to prevent your cup from overflowing.
- Automatic espresso machines work in much the same way as the semi-automatic options. The only real difference is that they automatically stop water from flowing once a certain amount has been dispensed. These machines are invaluable if you want to do other things while your espresso is brewing (such as preparing milk and other parts of your coffee beverage).
- Super-automatic espresso machines take care of every part of the process for you. These machines include a grinder, which helps them get the perfect amount of grounds for each shot. They self-measure, fill, and tamp the grounds. All you have to do is select the type of coffee you want.
Size and Aesthetics
Espresso machines bring a certain amount of class to your kitchen. That’s if you choose the right one. Most espresso machines are designed with the barista aesthetic in mind, turning a part of your kitchen into a scene right out of your favourite coffee shop. If that’s important to you, consider how each espresso machine looks. Go for sleek stainless-steel designs. If you have the room, choose a larger, more complicated machine – but only if you’ll use it!
Regardless of how you want your kitchen to look, it’s important to consider the size of your espresso machine. Do you have space for a large, complicated machine? If not, you can choose an option with a smaller footprint. There are smaller options on the Canadian market that have just as many features as the larger machines. The only limit is how much space you have on top of your counters. Avoid overlooking these small details, as they can make a difference in the option you choose.
Programmable Settings
The ability to program your espresso settings is important, especially if you use the machine often. Some options come with pre-programmed settings that allow for certain coffee types and sizes. Others feature programmable buttons that remember your settings and produce the exact coffee you want at any given time.
If you want to explore different options, pre-programmed settings might be best for you. If you want to make your coffee exactly how you like it, look for a coffee maker that offers programmable settings that you can change at will.
Water Tank
The water tank capacity and design can help your espresso machine be a little more convenient for you. A larger water tank means you’ll have to refill it less often. A removable water tank might mean less mess because you won’t have to move the machine and find the perfect angle to fill it without spilling water.
Regardless of the type of water type you chose, you should always look for one that includes a viewing window. You should always know how much water is left in the tank so you can refill it when needed.
Pressure Bars
Most espresso machines measure the pressure they can produce in pressure bars. This refers to the extraction pressure, which is part of the machine that creates espresso (instead of regular coffee). The pressure helps push water through the grounds quicker, creating a more intense, concentrated flavour and aroma.
But what pressure should you be looking for? Most experts say that between 7 and 9 pressure bars are ideal for the perfect espresso. However, most machines are rated for higher pressure bars than this. That’s because the pressure may be reduced as it moves through the machine. A pressure of 15 at the pump can quickly become an 8 by the time it reaches the filter. For this reason, you should choose an espresso machine with at least 15 pressure bars. More expensive machines with more intuitive pumps may be the exception to this rule.
Filters
Most commonly, espresso machines will use a portafilter to hold your grounds. No matter how you get those grounds (whether with the attached grinder or a separate option), you’ll need to understand how portafilters help you control the way your coffee brews.
Some larger commercial portafilters (such as those you’ll find in larger machines) require you to tamp your grounds down before brewing. This means using a tool called a tamp to compress the coffee. Like everything else about the espresso process, getting the right tamp is important.
Your home espresso machine might include a pressurized portafilter. They’ll tamp the grounds for you and build up the correct level of pressure to get great espresso every time. You’ll have less control over the flavour of the espresso this way. However, if you’re just beginning, learning how to adjust the flavour of your espresso via tamping and your portafilter might be a little advanced anyway.
Controls
Controls on your espresso machine should be simple and easy to understand. Touch-screen controls are best, especially when it comes to more expensive, capable espresso machines. However, for simple controls (and one or two options), a knob that allows you to switch between the options works just as well.
Don’t purchase an espresso machine without paying close attention to the controls. Like most small kitchen appliances, the controls can make all the difference when it comes to using the machine. You should choose options with visible, clear markings and switches that are large enough to use (especially if you have larger hands).
Steamer Wands
Do you want steamed milk on top of your latte? If you prefer to have a little foam on top of your coffee drinks, you’ll need an espresso machine with a steamer attachment, known most often as a steaming wand. There are other steaming methods available (and some attachments that froth milk instead if you prefer an airy foam rather than textured milk).
A steamer wand heats rapidly, raising the temperature of your milk and creating a foamy coating of small bubbles. This foam is great for the top of your espresso or other coffee drinks. Using a steamer wand requires a bit of skill, though. You have to hold it at the right angle to get the perfect results. Practice makes perfect, which is why choosing an espresso machine with a steamer wand can be best if you think you’ll use it a lot.
Grinder Attachments
Usually, super-automatic espresso makers come with a coffee grinder. This grinder is an integral part of the machine, as it grinds the beans you choose to the right size to make the perfect espresso. Then, the machine will measure and distribute those grounds to the filter section to prepare for making your espresso.
Sometimes, grinding our own espresso beans can be a challenge. It takes longer than you’d like, it’s loud, and you never know if you’re making enough grounds for the perfect shot. Thankfully, a super-automatic machine will take care of all of this for you. Keep in mind that these machines usually have multiple other special features as well. It’s never just a grinder attachment! For this reason, super-automatic machines are considered more luxurious and usually cost more.
On the positive side, these machines take care of almost everything for you. Add your favourite espresso beans and water, and put a cup on the tray to get the perfect cup every time. It could save you a lot of time and effort.
If you still want the perfect grind but want to avoid an all-in-one machine, consider one of the many great coffee grinders on the Canadian market. There are options here for everyone, regardless of the type of beans you prefer or how fine you need your coffee to be.
Additional Coffee Varieties
Some espresso machines only provide espresso. However, many machines can make different types of coffee. Because of the way the machine is built, it may have the capability to make other types of coffee. Standard options include cappuccinos, Americano, macchiatos, lattes, and more. Some espresso machines can even make standard coffee! If you want to try different types of coffee drinks (or if you already love these coffees and want to make them), look for a coffee maker that includes settings for these drinks. Automatic and super-automatic machines can sometimes include settings to instantly create your favourite coffee beverages in addition to espresso.
There might be different processes for making these coffee varieties. Always make sure to check the recipes and user manual for your espresso machine to learn how to handle different brewing modes and options. With some super-automatic espresso machines, a cappuccino is only a button away!
Special Settings and Options
Some espresso machines offer varying degrees of control over the brewing process. Some machines allow you to choose the quality of your coffee, how textured your milk is, and how much crema is preserved in the process. There are even options for how you want your coffee to smell! Larger machines usually have more customizable options and settings, which allow you to play around with your ideal brew time, taste, and more. If this sounds like something you would enjoy doing, look for an espresso machine with a lot of different control options.
An Automatic or Semi-Automatic espresso machine is the best option for those who want more control over the process. The super-automatic espresso machine will do everything for you, so it’s important to make the distinction. Choosing one of these super-automatic machines can get your espresso made perfectly every time, so it’s definitely worth checking out if you are an espresso aficionado.
Frequently Asked Questions
Canadians seeking a luxurious cup of coffee or latte will benefit from purchasing an espresso machine. These machines can make better quality coffee than a traditional drip or pod machine, and many can make crafted beverages. For those who enjoy having steamed milk or layered coffee drinks, an espresso machine is an ideal option.
Even beginners can use an espresso machine, thanks to easy to follow instructions and recipes included with most machines. Some espresso machines may have more complicated looking settings, but users who are patient and willing to read or watch instructional videos will be able to use espresso machines from day one. Advanced espresso machine users will find they may enjoy a more high-end appliance with more settings and capabilities in order to grow their at-home barista skills.
Espresso machines can use the same type of coffee beans as regular drip coffee machines, but they need to be ground differently. Traditional drip coffee machines use a coarser ground bean, allowing for water to flow more easily through the grind. Espresso machines, however, need a much finer ground bean, and the water flows more slowly, creating a thicker and stronger brew. Many espresso machines come with a grinder attachment, taking the guesswork out of correctly grinding your beans.
Most espresso machines in Canada have a way of steaming milk, but not all have an attached steamer wand. Some espresso machines have a milk container that steams and pours the milk in for you automatically, while others have a wand that produces steam for you to heat your own milk up. Some espresso machines have a milk frother that is separate from the main machine. Your preferred type of coffee beverage will help you in choosing the best espresso machine for you.
Some Canadians may feel intimidated by using an espresso machine and worry about the safety of steaming and a high-pressure machine. Upon receiving your espresso machine, make sure to read all safety information in the instructional booklet. When using the steamer wand, make sure to gently release any pressure, if instructed, after the machine has fully cooled. When following proper instructions, espresso machines are completely safe for home use.
