What should you look for when buying a piston machine?

What is a piston machine?

A piston machine, also known as an espresso machine with a portafilter, is a type of coffee maker that allows you to make espresso manually. The most important feature of a piston machine is that you place the ground coffee beans in a portafilter (or piston) yourself, press them down, and the machine forces hot water through the coffee under pressure. These machines are often used by baristas because they offer a lot of control over the flavor and quality of the espresso.

1. The type of piston machine

Piston machines come in different types, depending on how much control you want over the coffee-making process. Choose a machine based on your expertise and how much control you want to have while making coffee.

- Manual piston machines require you to pour water through the coffee yourself using a lever. This gives you maximum control, but also requires experience.

- Semi-automatic piston machines are the most popular for home use. You operate the machine yourself to start and stop the extraction, but the pressure and water temperature are controlled automatically.

- Automatic piston machines perform the entire process except for filling the portafilter. This can be useful if you want to quickly make a consistent espresso.

2. Quality of the espresso pump

The pump is responsible for creating the pressure needed to make a good espresso. Ideally, the pump should deliver a pressure of at least 9 bar to produce a rich and full-bodied espresso. Higher-quality piston machines can deliver pressures of up to 15 bar, which ensures even better extraction of the coffee beans.

3. Materials and build quality

A good piston machine will last for years, but it is important that it is made of sturdy materials. Stainless steel machines are robust, durable, and heat resistant. Cheaper plastic models can wear out or crack more quickly over time. Also pay attention to the quality of the portafilter: a heavy metal portafilter retains heat better, which is crucial for stable extraction.

4. Warm-up time and temperature stability

The temperature of the water is very important for a good espresso. A piston machine must be able to heat up quickly and maintain a stable temperature during extraction. Check whether the machine has a good boiler or thermoblock that can heat the water efficiently and maintain a constant temperature.

5. Size and capacity

Piston machines vary in size and capacity. Do you have limited space on your countertop? Then a compact model is ideal. You should also consider the capacity of the water tank and how often you want to use the machine. For someone who makes several cups a day, a larger water tank is more practical. Do you use it occasionally? Then a smaller water tank is sufficient.

6. Price and brand

The price of piston machines can vary from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the brand and functionality. Well-known brands such as De'Longhi and Sage offer reliable, high-quality machines. However, you should also consider your budget and how much you are willing to invest.

7. Steam pipe for frothing milk

If you like cappuccino or latte, a steam wand is an indispensable part of your piston machine. It allows you to froth milk for a creamy foam layer on your coffee. Not all piston machines have a steam wand, so if you like to make milk coffees, choose a machine with a powerful steam wand that can generate good steam.

Summary

Choosing the right piston machine depends on your personal preferences, coffee routine, and budget. Pay close attention to factors such as the type of machine, the quality of the pump, the construction materials, and any additional features such as a steam wand.

Whether you are just starting out making espresso yourself or are an experienced barista, there is always a piston machine that suits your needs and ensures that you can enjoy freshly ground coffee beans and a perfect espresso to the fullest.