Automatic vs. Semiautomatic Espresso Machines

Would you enjoy learning to make espresso, or would you rather press a button and get your drink? That’s the biggest question when choosing between a semiautomatic espresso machine and a fully automatic one.

What Do You Do with a Semiautomatic Machine?

You put ground coffee in the small basket, press it down, lock the handle into the machine, and brew. Some machines stop the shot for you, but you still prepare the coffee and empty the basket afterward.

A built-in grinder doesn’t make the whole machine automatic. The Breville Barista Express includes a grinder, but you’re still involved in making the espresso.

What Does a Fully Automatic Espresso Machine Handle?

It grinds and brews inside the machine. Choose your drink and use the available settings to adjust things such as strength and cup size. The used coffee collects in a container you empty later.

That can be easier when several people make drinks throughout the day. You’ll still refill water, add beans, clean the machine, and follow its maintenance steps.

Is the Milk Automatic Too?

Not always. Check the milk system separately. A machine might do the coffee for you but leave the milk to a manual wand. Another might help with milk while still asking you to prepare the coffee.

The Philips 3300 LatteGo and De’Longhi Magnifica Evo are worth comparing if you want more help with both.

Which One Will You Enjoy Using?

Choose a hands-on espresso machine if adjusting the coffee sounds like part of the fun. Consider a bean-to-cup machine if you mostly want fewer steps between the beans and your cup.

Before deciding, look at the cleanup. Where do used grounds go? How do you wash the milk parts? A drink menu only tells you part of what you’ll do every day. Our first espresso machine checklist helps you look at the rest.

Coffee Machines You Might Want to Look At

Still deciding? Have a look at our coffee maker reviews, espresso machine reviews, or cappuccino machines to see what else might suit you.