Types of coffee machines and coffee makers. How to choose a coffee maker for your home? Recommendations for choosing a good coffee maker for your home What types of coffee machine are there?
Many people cannot imagine their life without coffee. Going to work early in the morning without a cup can be a real nightmare. Undoubtedly, the most delicious drink is the one prepared in a Turk, however, this is a rather long and labor-intensive process, for which there is most often no time in the morning, and the result may be far from expectations if you do not have sufficient skills. It is much easier to buy a coffee maker or coffee machine and get a cup of aromatic and tasty coffee in a matter of seconds, besides, these devices can make a wide variety of types of coffee, but a Turk cannot do this. Depending on the type of coffee machine You can make different types of coffee, and some can make several types at once.
Choosing a coffee machine for your home. How is a coffee machine different from a coffee maker?
Before choose a coffee maker It’s worth thinking about what type of coffee we love most. After that, it’s worth taking a closer look at the types of coffee machines that are on the market. The last stage is going to the store to buy something. It’s worth mentioning right away that there is a significant difference between a coffee machine and a coffee maker.
A coffee maker literally brews coffee. Hot water passes through the pre-ground coffee and then into the cup. The taste of coffee from a coffee maker is significantly inferior to the drink prepared in a coffee machine.
The coffee machine is larger, more complex to set up, has a variety of functions and is more expensive. Coffee machines can be divided into two categories - automatic and semi-automatic. The former prepare coffee completely independently, while the latter require human intervention, in particular, it is necessary to monitor the foaming of milk in order to prepare a latte or cappuccino. In a coffee machine, water turns into steam and is forced through freshly ground coffee under high pressure, giving it a deeper taste and aroma. There are four types of coffee machines in total, so deciding which one to choose depends entirely on personal preference.
Carob type coffee machine (espresso).
For a long time, only two types of coffee machines could be found on the market - carob and drip. A striking example of the former are Delonghi coffee machines, which were able to gain a large market share and are still the most famous and purchased. Carob coffee machines prepare coffee under high pressure. A coffee horn is inserted into the coffee machine and coffee is poured into it. By firmly tightening the cone, it is installed in the desired groove, after which heated water under high pressure in the form of steam is forced through the coffee. The drink then flows slowly through one or two small holes into the cup.
Carob coffee machines can only make espresso. Some models have a special frother that heats milk in a separate cup, after which it can be added in the form of foam to freshly prepared coffee. A carob coffee maker allows you to pour one or two cups of coffee at a time. Before choosing a coffee maker of this type, it is worth remembering that delicious coffee will only be obtained in a device that has a pressure of at least 15 bar. Otherwise, the coffee will turn out “weak” and will not differ much from a regular instant drink.
Drip type coffee machines (filtration).
The second type of coffee machine, which is often found on the market and has not had serious competition for a long time, is the drip or filter coffee maker. The essence of this device is that coffee is poured into a special filter and hot water is passed through it. Unlike a carob-type coffee machine, here the water is not supplied under pressure and in its original state. Water passes through the coffee and drips into a special container. Since the coffee literally drips from a small hole located under the coffee filter, the brewing process is quite long. Therefore, the container is designed for a volume larger than one or two mugs. To ensure that the coffee does not cool down, a drink heating function is provided. Even if the coffee maker has finished working, the drink still remains hot.
Coffee prepared in such a device is called Americano, not least because it is very popular in the USA. This coffee is much weaker than the drink prepared in other types of coffee machines, but at the same time it has its own unique taste. Lovers of not very strong coffee, as well as those who drink this drink in large quantities throughout the day, can safely choose a drip coffee maker. Such devices are usually not very expensive and are the most affordable.
Capsule type coffee machine.
The capsule coffee machine is currently the most polarizing device on the market. This is explained by the low price and the ability to prepare a large number of types of coffee, hot chocolate, cocoa and even some types of tea. The operating principle of this device is based on the fact that water enters a capsule of a certain type, which already contains all the necessary ingredients for a specific type of coffee. The preparation process here is fully automated and you just need to add the required capsule.
After it is placed in place, special needles pierce it in two places, and a stream of air mixes the contents of the capsule. Next, water enters through the top hole in the capsule, and coffee is poured from the bottom. One capsule is designed for one cup; for some types of coffee, two capsules are required for one cup (milk and coffee).
The advantage of such coffee makers is the speed of preparation, a large selection of types of coffee, ease of care and use. When choosing a coffee maker with capsules, you should think about the fact that coffee makers from one company only work with branded capsules. There are several manufacturers on the market, but the most popular is the Dolce Gusto coffee maker. Their advantage lies in the price of capsules, as well as the largest selection of different flavors. Among them there are standard Americano, cappuccino, latte, as well as different types with flavoring additives, teas, chocolate and many more types.
Geyser type coffee machine (steam).
Geyser coffee machines are a fairly old, but not very popular type of coffee machine. Currently they are not in great demand, but they are still sold. It is recommended for Turkish coffee lovers to choose a geyser-type coffee maker. The drinks come out almost the same, but there are advantages to using a geyser coffee maker.
The principle of operation fully corresponds to the name. Structurally, in this coffee maker, the water is at the bottom, and above it is a filter with coffee. Experts say that it is better to use a medium grind and not compact the coffee, as in carob devices. The water heats up and, under pressure, begins to rise upward through a special tube, where it meets the coffee. After this, under pressure it is no longer water, but coffee that continues on its way and enters the coffee pot. Visually, the whole process resembles a geyser, which is where the name comes from.
The principle of preparation is completely similar to brewing in a Turkish coffee maker, but you do not need to stand over such a coffee maker, since the coffee will not run away, and there are no coffee grounds, which many will certainly like. The disadvantage of this type is the need to thoroughly wash the filter, as well as periodically replace the sealing gasket.
Combined and automatic coffee makers.
As the name suggests, a combination coffee maker combines several devices at once, namely a carob coffee maker for making espresso and a capsule coffee maker for all other types of coffee. Undoubtedly choose a coffee maker of this type Worth it for those who appreciate different types of coffee and want to be able to enjoy all types. To get invigorating, strong coffee in the morning, you can use a cone, and to treat yourself to weaker, but no less tasty types of coffee during the day, use capsules. Of course, such devices are somewhat more expensive, but functionality always requires additional costs.
An automatic coffee maker is the most high-tech device and the entire preparation process in it is fully automated. You just need to pour in the coffee beans, which will be ground here, pour in water, and also place a container of milk. An interesting feature of this species is that they are able to independently take milk even from the package in which it is sold. After this, the frothed milk is immediately poured into the cup, without the owner having to move it or monitor the process. Just press a button and then pick up the finished drink.
Coffee lovers always have at hand a unit for preparing it, a coffee maker or a coffee machine. Each of these devices has its own pros and cons. But more often they buy a coffee maker for home. Why coffee lovers prefer coffee makers and how to choose a coffee maker for your home is in the review below.
“Aroma brings people together,” sounds the coffee slogan from a famous advertisement. And really, what is the power of this drink, that love for it unites millions of people. We have no doubt that this is the number that will bring together all coffee lovers.
It’s nice to chat with friends over a cup of coffee, discuss business issues with clients, and spend time with loved ones and family. And even just being alone with a cup of coffee is, oddly enough, also pleasant.
Probably the first question is why many people choose a coffee maker rather than the latter, as we know, which produces a better-quality drink.
The first coffee makers, or rather their prototypes, appeared abroad at the beginning of the 19th century. And the first espresso machine was made in Italy.
Turka is also a prototype of a coffee maker. And it still has fans who love the process of making coffee with their own hands. Each country has its own national coffee making devices. For example, Fin in Vitenam, which is essentially the same coffee filter (or mini drip coffee maker).
When choosing a coffee maker for your home rather than a coffee machine, many point to the following advantages.
- Size. One of the first reasons why people buy a coffee maker is its small size and compactness. Still, compared to bulky coffee machines, coffee makers do not take up much space in the kitchen. And for some, this is a decisive factor, since the size of the kitchen does not allow placing an extra unit on it.
- Price. Compared to a coffee machine, a coffee maker is several times cheaper (the difference in price depends on the type of coffee maker and brand).
- Service. Coffee makers are not as complex devices as coffee machines, so they break down less often and are easier and cheaper to repair.
- Coffee makers are also easy to clean. You don't have to put a lot of effort into cleaning your coffee maker.
- Raw materials. For a coffee maker, the raw materials (that is, coffee) will be cheaper; you can buy ready-made ground coffee or beans. The quality of the drink will depend on the quality of the raw materials.
Many people love coffee, but not everyone knows how many types of coffee makers there are and how they work. But this is the first thing you need to know when choosing a device for high-quality preparation of this drink.
Let's list types of coffee makers:
- drip coffee maker (filtration);
- geyser;
- espresso coffee maker (carob);
- capsule coffee maker;
- combination coffee maker;
- French press;
- cezve (electric Turk).
We will not consider the last two types of coffee makers in detail, since the principle of their operation is simple and clear, and the price is low.
A French press is a simple unit into which we pour coffee, fill it with hot water, press it with a special piston, and, voila, quick coffee is ready. This type of coffee will be more instant, but with the flavor of ground beans.
An electric Turk works on the same principle as a regular one, but also has a special heating element at the bottom.
Coffee makers are improving, new functions appear - timer, heating, portion control, etc., which also affects the price. Coffee makers can be automatic or semi-automatic; some models are available with a cappuccino maker.
Let's look at how to choose the right coffee maker from the first three popular types.
The operating principle of this device is to slowly pass water through a filter into which ground coffee is poured.
Pros:
- simple operation - easy to clean, light weight, takes up little space;
- large tank volume, you can brew coffee for several people (up to 15 cups);
- low price.
Minuses:
- no pressure. As you know, to make real coffee, you need a pressure of 4 bar or higher. There is no pressure at all in this coffee maker. The coffee turns out unsaturated and not as aromatic;
- changing filters. Filters are not durable, so you will have to spend money on them and constantly change them;
- preparation time – coffee is prepared slowly, so it is not always hot;
- care - after each use, the container must be washed and the filter cleaned (or replaced).
We pay attention to the additional “buns” - a built-in anti-drip system, as well as the power and volume of the tank.
Price: from 700 rubles (the simplest model from Polaris) to 2000 rubles (for example, for a Bosch TKA 3A034 coffee maker), within 10,000 rubles for a selected unit from Philips (with a built-in coffee grinder).
The principle of operation is the opposite of a drip coffee maker, where water passes through the filter from bottom to top. This type of coffee maker can be powered either by electricity or heated on the stove.
Pros:
- low price;
- takes up little space;
- The coffee turns out a little better than in a drip coffee maker.
Minuses:
- you need to change the filter, which sometimes gets clogged with coffee grains, and wash the device;
- non-automated process, you need to monitor the coffee preparation time.
When choosing, we look at the volume, power, what material the machine is made of (it is better if it is stainless steel).
Price: from 400 rubles for the Chinese model Maestro Rainbow (MR1667-6) to 3000 rubles for the Belgian BergHOFF Studio Line.
One of the types of coffee makers, which is similar in operating principle to a coffee machine, which makes it popular among coffee connoisseurs.
Thanks to the pressure of several bars, steam passes through the coffee, which condenses in the cup, resulting in a rich, aromatic drink.
I call them carobs because the coffee is poured into a container shaped like a horn.
These coffee makers also come in regular and pump types; the latter are considered by coffee connoisseurs to be the best option, since the water in them does not boil and the coffee is prepared at the required temperature, resulting in thick foam.
Pros:
- there is pressure - in some models up to 15 bar, but to make perfect coffee, 7 bar is enough;
- speed of preparation;
- there is an opportunity to make cappuccino;
- many additional functions: built-in coffee grinder, overheating protection, anti-drip system, the ability to simultaneously prepare two cups of coffee, timer.
Minuses:
- price – this type of coffee maker is the most expensive;
- the dimensions and weight of such a device are slightly larger than other types of coffee makers;
- noise during operation;
- care and cleaning, replacement of components.
When purchasing, pay attention to the material of the horn; it is best if it is made of stainless steel.
Price: from 4,000 thousand for the VITEK VT-1513 model to 8,000 rubles for the expensive Delonghi EC 155 brand, almost 20,000 rubles for the Kenwood ES 020.
How to choose a good capsule coffee maker?
The operating principle of this coffee maker is simple: instead of ground coffee, the device uses a ready-made coffee capsule.
Pros:
- simple, fast and fully automated cooking process;
- easy care - no need to wash after each cup of coffee;
- The taste of the coffee is rich (however, some coffee lovers do not accept capsule coffee).
Minus:
- tied to the availability and purchase of capsules, which can be more expensive than using ground coffee;
- high price.
Price: 4000 rubles for the Krups kp 1006 model or 3000 rubles for the BOSCH Tassimo tas.
In addition to the listed types, combined coffee makers that combine the operating principles of drip and carob machines allow you to prepare high-quality coffee. Convenient, but not cost-effective and bulky in size.
Which model should you choose?
There are now a huge number of models of the listed types of coffee makers: with different functionality and different prices. Which company should you prefer? What is the best coffee maker for home and which one should you choose based on reviews?
It all depends on:
- the type of coffee maker you have chosen;
- your goals - you drink coffee rarely or over and over again; buy a device for treating guests; you are an avid coffee lover and several cups of real, rich coffee a day is your usual regimen;
- from the budget - how much you are willing to spend on the purchase;
- from space - how much space will the long-awaited coffee machine take up in your kitchen.
Having decided on these points, you can safely go to the store and purchase your treasured coffee maker.
Among the expensive brands, the following companies producing coffee machines and coffee makers stand out for their excellent quality and reputation: Guggia, Delonghi, Melitta, Krups, Blazer, Saeco.
From the average, but fairly reliable segment of electrical engineering brands, we can name Siemens, Bosch, Electrolux.
Now progress is taking place in such steps that coffee makers are improving, becoming more functional and more advanced. They've already invented a pocket-sized coffee maker that can make espresso and double espresso right where you want to drink coffee. An excellent hiking option for a real coffee lover.
So, let's summarize our review. Choosing a coffee maker is easy if you think about functionality, power, the number of cups of coffee prepared at a time, the richness and strength of the drink, size, manufacturer, and price.
In any case, a coffee maker in the kitchen of a true coffee connoisseur is the number one device. And if you want to save money, then just buy a Turk.
Coffee makers differ in operating principle, functionality and even the taste of the finished drink. The review we have prepared will help you understand the existing typology of coffee making devices. So, we study the types of coffee makers, their features, operating principles, pros and cons of each type of device.
Main types of coffee makers
A coffee maker is an automatic or semi-automatic device for preparing coffee by brewing.
- Geyser (Italian coffee pot);
- Drip (Americano);
- Rozhkova (espresso);
- Capsule (container);
- Chaldovaya (for coffee from “bags”).
Alternative brewing methods include a cezve and its electric variety, a French press, as well as all variants of devices for brewing coffee using the pour-over method: pour-over, Chemex, Aeropress and siphon. They stand out in a separate group.
Geyser coffee maker, also known as “Italian”
coffee pot"
Its prototype was created several hundred years ago, and at the beginning of the 20th century, the Italian Bialetti received a patent for his own version of the device. The main material of manufacture was aluminum. In the 21st century, devices are made from aluminum, steel, glass and combined materials. You can get a traditional or electric geyser model.
Operating principle
To make coffee, you need to place the coffee maker on a heat source. When heated, the water from the lower compartment rises and passes through a layer of ground coffee powder. Rising even higher, the coffee reaches the end of the tube and enters the upper tank, empty until this moment.
After a few minutes of heating, all the water will move from the bottom to the top, extracting the flavor and aroma from the ground powder. The coffee maker can be removed from the heat and the finished drink can be poured into cups.
Exploitation
The geyser coffee maker has a collapsible design. Pour water into the lower reservoir, then attach the filter on top. Pour coffee powder into it. Install the top part with the lid and the device goes to the stove. Make sure the heating is even and slow. If the heat is too high, you won't get good coffee.
Peculiarities
Makes strong coffee, close to espresso quality, as long as you don't overheat it. Overheating happens if you forget about the coffee maker and leave it on the fire.
You won’t be able to brew anything other than regular black coffee in a geyser. Not long ago they released a model with a cappuccino function, but the result is most similar to regular coffee with milk due to the very unstable foam with large bubbles.
Advantages
- Easy to use.
- Reasonable price. Even an authentic Bialetti coffee maker can be purchased for up to 2,000 rubles. Chinese Nonames cost from 700 rubles.
- Coffee does not run onto the stove.
- Does not require descaling.
- The quality of the finished drink is good; many compare it to espresso.
- The assortment - color, material of manufacture and form factor of the coffee maker can be chosen from dozens of options.
- Compact size - easy to store and take with you.
Flaws
- One recipe, no options.
- Lack of indication - you will have to determine the degree of readiness of the coffee by sound.
- Coffee can “stay” if you forget it on the stove.
- Not all coffee makers are universal; the material must be chosen depending on the type of stove.
Drip coffee maker, also known as “Americano”
For 200 years, the drip coffee maker has been a reliable and trouble-free device for making coffee. Even a child can handle it, and its price will not ruin the family budget. Therefore, no one is surprised by the worldwide popularity of the device.
Operating principle
After connecting the coffee maker to the network, the water is heated and supplied through a tube to the filter, seeping through the ground coffee. The slow speed of droplets passing through the coffee ensures good extraction. Immediately after filling the coffee pot, the drink can be served.
Exploitation
Simple device - simple operation. The algorithm is even simpler than for a geyser. Pour water into the reservoir, put ground coffee into the filter at the rate of 2 teaspoons per 100 ml of water. Then turn on the device and you can go about your business. Modern models have an auto-shut-off and heating function, so the finished coffee will be waiting for you as long as you need it.
Peculiarities
The second name of the device is “Americano” coffee maker. It appeared due to the fact that US residents prefer this particular type of device, and also because the taste of the finished coffee is similar to a classic Americano from an espresso machine.
- A drip coffee maker makes only one type of drink. Its taste and strength depend on the proportions of water and powder. But don't count on crema like espresso.
- Modern drip coffee makers have additional functions.
- On/off indicators.
- Heating a container of coffee.
- Auto power off.
- Some models even have a delayed start timer.
Drip coffee makers may have a long-lasting, reusable filter that will need to be cleaned each time after brewing. Another configuration option is disposable filters; they can be disposed of immediately, but you will have to spend money on purchasing new ones.
pros
- Simple controls.
- Easy to use.
- Stable drink quality.
- Does not require supervision - you can turn it on and go about your business.
- Quite affordable price, from 1700-2000 rubles.
- Assortment of sizes, shapes, volumes.
Minuses
- One type of drink.
- The quality of the drink is average, although the strength of the coffee can be high.
- Additional costs: descaling required and purchase of disposable filters if you use them.
Carob coffee maker or espresso coffee maker
It is designed for preparing strong espresso and drinks based on it. The authorship of the device is disputed by many, but the palm remains with the Italians - they are the trendsetters for carob coffee makers.
Operating principle
This coffee maker is called a “carob” coffee maker based on the type of filter into which the coffee is loaded. It is some kind of ladle with a small scoop and a long handle. The filter holds very little coffee, from 7 to 12 g. Automatic coffee machines can have not one, but two or more filters to prepare many cups of coffee at once.
Carob coffee makers can be steam or pump. Despite the external similarity, the difference in design is significant. In a steam coffee maker, water is heated in a boiler until it almost boils. This boiling water then passes through a coffee filter.
Pump pumps use the principle of running water under high pressure. Hot, but not boiling water enters the filter. These are ideal conditions for high-quality extraction and preservation of the aromatic composition of coffee. This is why espresso prepared in a pump-type coffee maker is so aromatic.
Based on pump coffee makers, automated coffee machines with dozens of functions and modes are produced.
Exploitation
Simple models of carob coffee makers are not too difficult to operate. The main thing is to learn how to properly tamp coffee in a cone. A fully automated device can take a long time to master due to the abundance of modes and functions.
Peculiarities
A pump coffee maker makes the best coffee. Only it produces that same espresso with foam and a magical aroma. The quality of the finished drink depends on the skill of the person. Steam coffee makers will not prepare such a drink due to excessive heating of the water.
Most models of pump carob coffee makers and some steam ones have a device for frothing milk - a cappuccino maker. It expands the list of possible recipes, adding cappuccino, latte, flat white and other coffee and milk delights to your coffee menu.
Carob coffee makers require space to install.
Advantages
- High quality of the finished drink.
- Quick preparation, from 30 seconds to 2 minutes per serving.
- Variety of recipes.
- Large assortment of shapes, sizes, varieties.
- Wide additional functionality.
Flaws
- High price, and for pump-action models a very high price.
- Takes up a lot of space in the kitchen.
- Requires skills.
Pod coffee makers
A pod is a single serving of coffee in individual packaging.
By type of device, pod coffee makers copy carob coffee makers. Some manufacturers have found a simple solution. They make a removable filter for pods in regular models of steam carob coffee makers. In such a device, you can use regular ground coffee or install a removable filter from the kit and use pods.
Operating principle
The pod is placed in the filter, and water is poured into the reservoir. Hot water flows through a coffee bag. The used pod is then disposed of. The finished coffee is aromatic, but you shouldn’t expect foam like espresso, since all pod coffee makers are steam-type with low pressure.
Each pod is well packed, so the coffee in it remains fresh and aromatic for a long time.
pros
- Easy to use.
- Convenient disposal.
- Consistent quality of the finished drink
- No skills required.
- The recipes are varied, as the pods are sold in different flavors.
Minuses
- Additional Costs – Pods cost more than ground coffee or coffee beans.
- Needs regular descaling.
- Pods are not easy to buy everywhere.
A capsule is a single-use package of ground coffee in a metallized individual container. Hermetically sealed capsule packaging keeps the contents fresh.
Capsule coffee machines are predicted to have a great future. They were originally created by one of the coffee producers for promotional purposes, but the marketing idea turned out to have great potential. Nowadays, capsule coffee machines are made by many large coffee brands.
Operating principle
Capsules are produced strictly for a specific model of coffee machine, and they are not suitable for others.
Water is poured into the reservoir, and the selected capsule is inserted into the recess. The lid closes and special spikes make a hole in the lid and bottom of the mini-container with ground coffee. Hot water is then passed through the opened capsule. The result is strong coffee. After the process is completed, all that remains is to open the lid, take out and throw away the capsule, and you don’t even have to wash anything.
pros
- Drink of stable quality.
- Simplicity and cleanliness of operation.
- Stable drink quality.
- No special skills are required for preparation.
- Variety of shapes and colors.
Minuses
- High purchase price.
- High cost of ownership - you only need certain capsules, and they cost more than ground or bean coffee.
- Brand connection.
- The need to descale.
Types of coffee makers: our conclusion
- Geyser: affordable and quite tasty, but you need to watch the process.
- Drip: inexpensive and reliable, average taste, but a high degree of autonomy - turned it on and went about its business.
- Steam carob: more expensive than drip, but fast.
- Pump-action carob: expensive, but excellent espresso.
- Pod: the same steam carob, only coffee from bags.
- Capsule: expensive connection to the brand, but you won’t have to get your hands dirty.
- What type of coffee makers is your favorite?
Takes ~3 minutes to read
There is no need to introduce a drink like coffee. The population of any country is familiar with it. Many people adore it and cannot imagine the morning without a cup of aromatic drink. They wake up easier, become more alert, and are charged with energy for the whole day, which is why it is very popular. In this article we will tell you how to choose a coffee maker for your home.
If you are captivated by the taste of an overseas drink, then sooner or later you will have to make a decision and choose a coffee maker for your home. This device will help simplify and speed up the process of brewing coffee beans at home. A successful purchase will delight the owner and his guests with freshly brewed coffee for a long time.
Technology does not stand still; now you can buy a wide range of different coffee makers. Before purchasing, you will have to find out which is better - drip or geyser - and what you should pay attention to.
Which coffee maker to choose for your home
The very first thing is to find out what requirements you have for such a device. There are several varieties, completely different from each other:
- Drip;
- Geyser;
- Electric Turk (cezve);
- Rozhkovaya (espresso coffee maker);
- Capsule;
- Combined.
Before you buy any coffee machine, you should understand the features of each type. This will help you make the right choice.
Drip coffee machine
The most common device for making coffee, easy to use and affordable. Drip - this is because after heating, water begins to drip onto the ground grains. The second name is a filter coffee maker - the liquid is forced through a filter mesh.
Principle of operation
Water is poured into a special container and heated to a temperature of 85–95°C. The finished drink ends up in the coffee pot after passing through a filter of ground coffee beans. Everything is simple and clear.
Flaws
- Long cooking time. If you have to cook for a group, you won’t be able to drink coffee together. While you prepare the third portion, the first portion will have time to cool.
- Even a very high-quality type of coffee will not be full of good taste and aroma. The preparation principle does not allow essential oils to saturate the drink. Hot drops of water dissolve a small part of the oils, but this is not enough.
What should you pay attention to?
When purchasing a drip coffee maker for your home, you should choose a powerful device. The principle is simple: the larger the volume of the container, the more powerful the heating element should be.
The speed of preparation and strength of the drink will depend on the power of the device. It is worth considering devices with a power of more than 1,000 W. They are able to quickly prepare coffee and give it enough aroma and taste.
Anti-drip systems are very practical. They allow you to drink coffee as it is prepared and not wait for the end of the cycle. You removed the device - it stopped working, put it back - it started working again.
Most of these machines have a glass coffee pot, and underneath it a heater that can maintain the temperature for up to 30 minutes. It is more practical to buy a device with a thermally insulated metal coffee pot that holds the temperature for a long time.
The volume of the coffee pot is chosen at your own discretion. If you are interested in personal consumption, that is, 2-3 cups at a time, a 500 g container will suffice. A two-liter coffee pot will quickly brew up to 15 cups of drink.
The coffee pot handle, insulated from overheating, ensures safe use.
Important detail:
There are devices with a function for manually controlling the strength of the drink. You can also purchase a device with overflow protection, which turns off when the coffee pot is filled. If the coffee maker is equipped with a filter compartment holder, then changing the ground powder will not be difficult. Any functions make devices more convenient and more expensive.
Most devices work with ground beans, but there are coffee machines that have a built-in coffee grinder and automatic grinding feed into the drip compartment.
Geysernaya
This is also a fairly simple device, in which the metal container is divided into two compartments. One of which is for water, the second for ground coffee.
How does it work?
The upper compartment is for water that needs to be brought to a boil. When water boils, increased pressure is created, due to which it passes through a special filter with ground grains. Thus, it is saturated with the aromas of essential oils and ends up in the compartment for the finished drink.
There are models where brewing occurs due to evaporation, that is, steam. The water boils away and forces steam into the upper compartment. Steam passes through ground natural coffee through a special steam tube.
To improve the taste, many users repeat this process one or two more times. This can significantly improve the taste. It takes about five minutes to prepare.
Flaws
The modern manufacturer offers geyser types from 1 to 18 servings! A device designed for cooking a certain number of portions cannot be filled with a smaller amount of liquid.
What to pay attention to:
There are two types of this type:
- Electrical;
- Slab.
An electric machine brews coffee that tastes better and is of higher quality.
Before buying such a device, you should think about its volume in advance. The power of the device directly depends on the volume of the water tank: the greater the amount of water, the greater the electricity consumption. Power can be 450 W and 1 kW.
A coffee maker with a metal flask and a transparent top is in great demand, which allows you to observe the pumping process. It can be glass or plastic. The handle of the housing must be a heat-insulating material.
Depending on the manufacturer and cost of the device, various options may be offered:
- Delay timer;
- Automatic shutdown;
- Temperature support;
- Thermostat;
- Strength regulator;
- Light indicators.
Electric Turks
A simple electrical appliance for quickly preparing several servings of a good drink. An electric Turk is capable of brewing coffee that does not differ in taste from that prepared in the usual way.
Work technology
The Turk can be plastic, metal or ceramic. The differences between them are minor and do not affect the quality in any way.
The container is installed on a special platform, sold as a set. According to the principle of operation, this is an electric kettle: a water container is placed on a platform that heats the device.
With an electric Turk, everything happens exactly the same. The only difference is that ground grains are added along with water.
Flaws
Electric Turks are not equipped with an automatic switch. It is necessary to monitor the preparation of the coffee drink.
What to pay attention to
The volume of such devices for one or two cups is 250–500 milliliters. Fast cooking is ensured by the fairly high power of the device, 500–1000 W.
Carob-type espresso cappuccino maker
These are very popular coffee makers today. There are two fundamentally different types of this coffee maker:
- Pump-action;
- Regular steam.
Principle of operation
A regular coffee maker relies on steam to operate. The water boils, turns into a gaseous state, and the pressure created forces the steam through the coffee filter. The result is coffee that is inferior in taste to the drink prepared in a pump device.
Pump machines work on a different principle. Their pressure is created not by steam from the evaporation of water, but by a specially built-in pump pump. There is no need to bring the water to a boil, which ruins the whole taste. The water temperature is adjusted to ± 90°C.
The second name is carob. This name was obtained due to the filter into which the coffee is poured; it has the shape of a horn. Water at a pressure of about 7 bar passes through this filter.
When choosing a device for your home, do not listen to sales agents who say that the device creates a pressure of up to 15 bar - this is not so. The truth is that such devices can theoretically create high pressure, but this is not necessary. The horn machine copes with its responsibilities using significantly less pressure.
Flaws
Long preparation before use, heating the water. Constantly maintaining the temperature requires energy consumption.
What to pay attention to
Many models of such coffee makers provide the preparation of milk foam for exclusive drinks. The so-called cappuccino machine can be used manually or automatically. It is much more convenient to get milk froth using an automatic cappuccino maker.
Having chosen espresso, you need to check the material used to make the main part – the filter horn. The only suitable material is metal, more precisely, stainless steel.
For those who like to drink coffee with friends, equipment with two nozzles is sold. Preparing a drink for two is equally quick.
It’s good when the kit includes a tamper - this is a compactor of ground coffee in the filter.
Built-in functions to protect equipment from overheating and the ability to quickly turn off are required.
If there is no water in the tank, the coffee maker should not turn on.
Capsule coffee machine
I like the capsule type of the device for its simplicity and ease of use. The coffee drink is prepared without any difficulties.
How does it work?
The capsule placed in the compartment is pierced with a specially designed needle. The needle is hollow - hot water is supplied through this cavity directly into the capsule. The water is filled with the taste and aroma of encapsulated coffee and poured into a cup. After which the capsule is moved to a specially designated compartment.
This technique can also be used to prepare a drink with milk, you just need to make sure you have capsules with dry or concentrated milk.
Flaws
The cost of capsule coffee will be more expensive than regular ground or grain coffee.
Only capsules from the manufacturer of this equipment are suitable. The choice of drink is limited by the manufacturer; you will have to drink only the variety that the company offers.
What to pay attention to
When purchasing a capsule coffee machine, you should pay special attention to the power of the device. The duration of preparation of the drink directly depends on this indicator; it is recommended to choose equipment with more than 1 kW of power.
It is very practical to choose coffee makers with a large volume of water - at least one liter. Water usually runs out quickly at the most inopportune moment. It is very good if the container with water is removed. There are models with a water filter, which users also like.
The function of automatic shutdown of the device and self-cleaning mode is desirable.
Combination coffee machines
Two different but important tools are built into the combined ones:
- Espresso combine. This type of equipment was created to be able to prepare a drink using ground or bean coffee of your choice. To put it simply – a coffee maker and a coffee grinder in one device.
- Coffee machine. You can make your own espresso or Americano. Complex and expensive coffee machine. It combines two different devices – a drip coffee maker and a carob coffee maker.
Which coffee maker is better? What to buy? (VIDEO)
Most modern people cannot imagine their morning without a cup of coffee. And the existing rhythm of life, the eternal rush, force us to come up with more and more advanced devices that can save as much time and effort as possible for its preparation. This is how new coffee makers and coffee machines appear.
What types of coffee makers are there?
The choice of coffee makers is enormous. There are both very simple and cost-effective models, characterized by a simple operating principle and minimal capabilities, as well as more complex models equipped with a wide variety of functions: a timer, temperature control that allows you to keep coffee hot for some time (from half an hour to 3 hours), regulation of strength, etc.
It is worth paying attention to the volume of coffee that is prepared at one time. As a rule, this information is indicated on the device itself and indicates the number of cups with a capacity of 100 ml. This will help you choose a coffee maker according to the amount of product you or your family consumes.
Types of coffee makers and coffee machines
All coffee makers and coffee machines are designed for one purpose - making coffee. The difference is in the method of extraction from coffee of the components required to obtain the taste and aroma. They also differ in the principle of formation of steam pressure. Depending on these indicators, there are different types of coffee makers and coffee machines.
Geysernaya
Another name is a steam coffee maker. The model was created back in the 19th century, but until now the components of the design and the principle of operation have not undergone any significant changes. The only innovation is that electric models with a cord that plug into an outlet have appeared. Manual ones are still placed on the stove.
Depending on the volume, coffee makers of this type are produced with different powers - from 450 W to 1 kW. Consist of 3 departments:
- lower water tank made of steel;
- compartments (filters) for ground coffee beans;
- upper container (coffee pot) for ready-made coffee, made of glass, ceramics or steel.
The cooking process takes place in several stages:
- Filtered water is poured into the lower container. The level is determined by the existing mark.
- Ground coffee, preferably medium grind, is placed in the filter. The coffee powder does not need to be compacted, it only needs to be slightly smoothed.
- The filter with coffee is installed above the container with water, and the coffee pot is placed on top. The coffee maker is placed on the stove or plugged into an outlet.
The principle of operation is reflected in the name of the model. When heated to a boil, the water begins to expand and enters a funnel-shaped tube, creating increased pressure. Along it, water, with the help of the generated steam, rises into the filter with ground beans and, passing through it and extracting the necessary components from the coffee, is pushed into the coffee pot. The ejection process resembles a geyser in appearance.
The device is turned off manually. A hissing sound will indicate that the coffee is ready and the water in the container has run out.
Attention! The advantage of a geyser coffee maker is the ability to regulate water heating. The slower it is, the richer the drink turns out.
Rozhkova
In this model, the compartment for ground coffee is a horn (holder). A special feature of this coffee maker is the need to firmly compact the finely ground coffee powder with a special pestle.
The cooking process takes place under high pressure of steam generated when water boils. It’s not for nothing that the device has another name – espresso (from Italian – under pressure).
Steam is generated in two ways, depending on the type of coffee maker:
- Steam. Steam occurs when water is heated to a boiling point of 100 °C, and under the influence of a pressure of 4 bar, it opens the valve between the water container and the horn. Hot steam passes through the coffee and, extracting coffee substances from it, enters the coffee pot in finished form. It takes about 3-5 minutes to prepare.
- Pump-action. Steam is produced by heating water with an electromagnetic pump to a temperature of 95 degrees. The pressure in this unit is 15 bar, so cooking takes very little time - about 30 seconds, and the consumption of raw materials is reduced. Coffee lovers know that the optimal temperature for brewing is between 92 and 95 °C. Therefore, its quality will be higher than in the steam model.
In carob coffee makers, a “cream” is formed on the coffee – a soft and aromatic foam, appreciated by many gourmets.
Reference! Some carob coffee makers are equipped with a cappuccino maker - an attachment for collecting and frothing milk, which allows you to prepare cappuccino and latte in addition to espresso.
Drip
Other names: filtration, Americano. They are in great demand due to their low cost and ease of use.
The device consists of 2 containers: for cold water and a ready-made drink, between which there is a mesh filter with coarse grains. The filter can be paper (disposable), nylon (enough for about 60 cups), metal or “gold” (titanium coated, does not require replacement).
Water, having been heated from the heating element to almost 100 ° C, expands and turns into steam, which passes through the outlet tubes to the upper part of the apparatus. There, the steam condenses and drips in the form of condensate drops through a special hole onto the coffee filter, and then passes through it into the coffee pot. In this case, part of the temperature is lost, reaching approximately 90-97 ° C (ideal temperature for Americano). The disadvantage is the lack of foam.
More expensive models have additional features:
- the coffee pot is located on a heater that can keep coffee hot for 3 hours;
- there is a shutter with an anti-drip function that protects the stove from product residues falling on it when removing the cup from the coffee maker;
- the ability to stop the operation of the device at any stage of preparation.
Interesting! Coffee turns out tastier and stronger in a drip coffee maker, which has the lowest power.
Capsule
In this model, instead of a filter or a compartment for ground beans, special capsules with compacted coffee powder inside are used. To prevent coffee from oxidizing, losing its taste and spoiling, the capsules are sealed and filled with inert gas. During the cooking process, they are pierced on 3 sides with a special device.
First, an incoming powerful stream of air mixes the contents of the capsule. Heated water then passes through them under pressure. The resulting coffee is poured into a cup. The used capsule is discarded.
On the plus side– there is no need to calculate the required portion of loaded coffee or clean the filter from used coffee mass. Of the minuses– in some devices you can only use capsules from the manufacturer of the coffee maker.
Attention! When choosing a capsule model, pay attention to the volume of noise it produces.
Combined
Combines 2 types of coffee makers:
- carob, with espresso preparation;
- drip, for fans of Americano.
With such a device, it is worth considering that these drinks require beans of different grinds (fine for espresso, coarse for Americano).
When choosing, you need to pay attention to power. It is desirable that it be at least 1-1.7 kW. Then a pressure of 15 bar will arise.
Semi-automatic
It is stipulated that part of the work must be done manually before brewing. The device does not grind coffee beans on its own; it must be poured in already ground. Then you need to place the coffee in the filter and compact it properly. This type includes, for example, a horn model.
One of the advantages is that depending on what kind of coffee you prefer (strong, not very strong), you have the opportunity to determine the required amount of raw materials and the resulting volume of the drink.
Automatic
They practically do not require human intervention in the process of making coffee. The device, also called a combine or coffee machine, independently:
- Grinds coffee beans. They are placed in the compartment provided for this purpose, where they are ground according to the specified settings. The ground product enters the pressing department, where it is pressed into a soluble tablet and moistened.
- Heats water to the required temperature. Under pressure, it passes through the compressed powder and fills the cup with the finished product.
- Self-cleaning. The remaining waste is removed into a special container, after which washing occurs.
It takes only 30 to 40 seconds to prepare 1 cup of coffee from the moment you place the beans to pour it into the cup. The big advantage is that due to grinding immediately before preparation, the caffeine and essential oils are completely preserved in the finished coffee. The downside is the high cost.
Advice! It is undesirable to use flavored coffee in automatic machines - it leaves an odor that is difficult to eliminate for a long time.
Manual
Devices in which coffee is prepared under pressure created by manual muscular force. These include:
- French press (French press). It consists of a narrow cylinder, heat-resistant glass and a piston connected to a mesh filter made of metal. Ground coffee beans are poured into the bottom of the cylinder, hot water is poured in, and the lid is closed. The piston is in a raised state. After the coffee has brewed (after 5-7 minutes), the piston moves down, pressing the grounds and passing the finished drink through the filter.
- Aeropress. The principle of operation is the same, with the only difference being that the filter is made of paper and is disposable. It is placed in a mesh lid located at the bottom of the glass cylinder and discarded after the brewing procedure is completed.
- Handpresso (from the English word hand - “hand”). Miniature model that fits in one hand. A piston pump located inside pumps compressed air, creating a pressure of 9 bar. As soon as the pressure gauge needle reaches the green mark, ground coffee is poured into the coffee maker, hot water is poured in, and the filter lid is closed. The finished drink is poured into a cup at the touch of a button.
The advantage of manual coffee makers is their small size, which allows you to take them with you on the road, to the country house, or on any trip. They do not require electricity to function.
What types of coffee makers are there for home?
Coffee makers for home are:
- electric, operating when plugged into the network;
- for making coffee on a stove - gas or induction.
To the above models powered by electricity, you can add an electric Turk. Coffee is prepared in it, just like on a stove, but instead of a stove, it uses a special power stand. The shutdown is not automatic; after the brewing process is completed, the device must be turned off independently.
Stovetop coffee makers
Of the types of coffee makers discussed above, this includes the geyser model (if it is not electric), in which coffee is prepared on a heat source - a gas or induction stove. In addition, there are cezve (cezve), turk, and dalla, known since time immemorial.
A cezve is a vessel made of forged copper, steel, aluminum, brass or ceramics, the inner surface of which is coated with food-grade tin to prevent the ingress of substances hazardous to human health that are released when the copper or brass is heated. It has a wide base and a narrow neck, and a long handle, most often made of hard wood.
Most coffee lovers consider Turka to be the same cezve, without making any difference between them. According to one version, the difficult name could not take root in Russia, and since Turkish coffee was the most famous, the vessel began to be called Turk. However, some experts believe that there is still a difference: the Turks have a wider and shorter neck, shaped like a funnel.
Dalla is widely used in the countries of Saudi Arabia and Syria. This is a small, most often copper, vessel with a narrow neck, short spout and thick bottom, having a lid and a straight, long handle. The shape vaguely resembles a teapot.
The existing market for coffee makers and coffee machines offers a huge number of different models and types to suit any, even the most sophisticated, taste. The choice directly depends on the coffee lover’s preferences: desired strength, quantity, favorite recipe, etc. Having made a purchase taking into account all the pros and cons, you can become the owner of a device that can bring true pleasure with a cup of aromatic drink that can charge you with vigor and good mood for the whole day.
