It is pretty much given that everybody knows a thing or two about coffee; from the basics of grounds and beans to the fine art of brewing it. Having said that, we do have handy coffee brewing machines at our disposal to make our lives that much simpler.
Coffee makers are fine. Espresso machines are dandy. It is all fine and dandy until the need arises to differentiate between these two devices because; they are very much different in their own specific ways. Some might ask, ‘what’s the big deal anyway since it just makes your coffee?’ Well you might find yourself in a bit of a tough predicament should you have a coffee maker when you actually need an espresso machine.
It is actually not all that complicated. There are only two major distinctions between these two devices; and each of these factors compensates the other. The primary differential factor between a coffee and espresso maker would be its brewing time. Espresso machines brew espresso shots at a quicker rate than perk or drip grind coffee makers. As simple as it sounds, there is actually a reason behind this difference in brewing time.
The main reason why the brewing time is so much shorter for an espresso maker is because of the high pressure induced to force water through the coffee grind. Good espresso brewers can churn up to 15 atmospheres (ATM) of water pressure. Usually, a shot of espresso would be brewed by forcing 1.5 ounces of boiling water through densely fitted, finely ground coffee grinds. The end product would be a dark brown and thick concoction with a measure of crema on top. We will get to the crema part later.
Besides the brewing time and high pressure, another thing that differentiates espresso machines from coffee makers is the ingredient it uses for brewing. Espresso makers use fine ground espresso to brew the end product whereas coffee makers use conventional coffee beans to make your favourite drink. The consistency and texture of ground espresso is likened to powdered sugar. The finer the grounds, the longer it would take for hot water to be forced through it for your shots to be brewed. The consistency of espresso grounds is usually varied for controlling the brew time.
On the other hand, drip coffee makers work by dripping hot water onto your coffee beans or grounds. These grounds are usually rougher in texture compared to espresso grounds. The boiling water would eventually filter through the coffee and into the pot. Evidently, there is a considerable amount of difference in brewing times.
As for cremas, espresso machines tend to make espresso shots with a layer of crema on top. The crema is likened to the foam on the head of a beer. This is due to frothers on espresso makers, something which cannot be found on conventional coffee makers.
For a true coffee enthusiast, espresso shots are generally more preferred simply because of the way they are made. You get better extraction from your grounds with an espresso machine for that full and rich taste. However rather surprisingly, a cup of drip coffee contains more caffeine than a shot of espresso.
The choice is ultimately yours. Espresso machines are more of a luxury and they are generally priced more extravagantly than conventional coffee makers. Not all espresso machines are fantastic; some just don’t cut it. For the amount of money you pay, you might be better off getting a good coffee maker.
To find the best coffee maker and best espresso machine, feel free to visit us today!