There are three different types of espresso maker, steam, pump and automatic. As the names suggest steam makers produce espresso coffee via steam and the pump via pressure. The disadvantage of the steam maker is that as pressure is not applied steam isn`t actually produced, just hot water; therefore the quality of espresso becomes slightly degraded. These are cheaper than the other types of espresso maker. The pump maker applies adequate pressure however the coffee must be manually grinded. These provide a good quality espresso, suitability for restricted budgets and enjoyment for those who prefer grinding their own coffee. The automatic is literally automatic, as the process requires minimal effort, as it both pressurises and grinds. Some people enjoy participating in the coffee making process and therefore may find the automatic machines less rewarding. The automatic machines are more expensive therefore a flexible budget is required. They are suitable for those who would like to minimise the time and effort involved in producing a perfect espresso.

DeLonghi EC5 Steam-Driven 4-Cup Espresso and Cappuccino Maker is one of the more expensive steam espresso makers retailing at $35.10 (Amazon at a reduced price). It can produce up to four cups of espresso or cappuccino and some models have a light, Medium or strong setting to control the intensity of the coffee. It has two outlets; therefore two cups of coffee can be produced simultaneously. Cleaning of the outlets and filter are required, however not on a regular basis. It is recommended for every cycle where 300 cups have been made. It is also recommended to descale at the same interval.

The Lello 1375 Ariete Cafe Prestige Coffee Maker is one of the more expensive pump espresso makers retailing at $165.08 (Amazon); in comparison to the high-end DeLonghi EC5 (mentioned earlier) it is evident that the pump espresso makers are far more expensive. Cuisinart EM-100 and the DeLonghi BAR32 have similarities such as operating at 15 bars and having a portafilter however their retail price differs greatly due to the difference in their reservoir capacities. Cuisinart EM-100 retails at $119 and has a 53 ounce reservoir however DeLonghi BAR32 retails $89.39 and has a 35 ounce reservoir. A budget pump espresso maker such as DeLonghi EC155 retails at $79.99 however still provides 15 bar pressure and a 35 ounce tank which can also be removed for easier descaling.

The DeLonghi ESAM3500.N Magnifica Digital Super-Automatic Espresso/Coffee Machine is a high end automatic espresso maker retailing at $1468.98, which clearly shows the difference in price range between the different types of espresso maker. Krups XP7260 Compact Fully Automatic Espresso Machine with Auto Cappuccino Kit is a cheaper alternative at $549 but is still five times more expensive than a high end pump espresso maker. The main fresh coffee beans difference between the high and low end products is the amount of energy required to process the maker. The DeLonghi has been more efficiently designed.

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