How to Shop for Espresso Machines
Shopping for an espresso machine can be overwhelming with so many options. Whether you’re brewing at home or running a small café, finding the perfect espresso machine is all about knowing what features to look for and choosing a brand that delivers consistent, high-quality espresso. Here’s a guide to help you make the right choice to brew your next perfect shot.
1. Types of Espresso Machines
First, decide between automatic, semi-automatic, or manual machines:
Automatic machines are best for beginners, as they do most of the work for you. Fracino’s Romano (shown here) stands out for its streamlined automatic performance, best suited for medium to large coffee shops.
Semi-automatic machines offer a bit more control over brewing than fully electric. The Fracino Bambino is a professional grade espresso machine made for small coffee shops, small restaurants, or luxury homes, and can have either fully electronic or semi-automatic abilities. This customizable machine is the best of both worlds.
For home use, the Fracino Cherub is a top semi-automatic choice, providing durability and precision for those who like to experiment.
Manual machines are for those who want full control over the brewing process. Retro, the latest innovation from award-winning Fracino, is a professional grade espresso machine made for medium to large coffee shops and restaurants. The espresso is manually pulled with levers rather than dials or buttons, making it user-friendly and providing maximum control.
2. Grind Quality
The grind size and quality are essential for a great espresso, and this is where your machine's compatibility with grinders comes in. Unless you opt for a machine with a built-in grinder, which may give you less control of the grind, you’ll need a high-quality burr grinder to get the perfect grind consistency. Finer grounds are essential for espresso, so ensure your machine pairs well with a grinder that allows precise adjustments.
3. Boiler Types and Temperature Control
When it comes to espresso, temperature stability is everything. There are three main types of boilers to consider:
Single boilers are affordable and efficient for espresso shots but lack simultaneous brewing and milk frothing capability.
Heat exchange boilers allow you to brew and steam at the same time, ideal for those who want to make multiple drinks quickly.
Dual boilers, like those found in premium machines like the Fracino Contempo (shown here), offer ultimate temperature control for both brewing and steaming. This is a great option for the ultimate control when pulling shots and making milk-based drinks.
4. Pressure Control
For a perfect shot, consistent pressure (9 bars) is crucial. All Fracino machines, from our home machines like Little Gem (shown here), to our fully automatic Romano, are equipped with commercial-grade pumps for optimal pressure, ensuring rich, balanced espresso with perfect crema.
5. Steam Wand for Milk Drinks
If you're a fan of cappuccinos or lattes, the quality of the steam wand is crucial. Machines with powerful steam wands will give you the ability to texture milk properly, creating that perfect microfoam for latte art. Automatic machines may offer built-in milk frothers, but for more precise control, consider a high-end semi-automatic machine with a commercial-grade steam wand like the Fracino Bambino (shown here).
6. Why Choose Fracino?
Fracino is a trusted name, known for combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. Their UK-made machines, like the Piccino and Contempo, are built to last, delivering consistent results whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned barista.
Choosing the right espresso machine means considering your needs and the machine's features. Fracino espresso machines offer excellent value, reliability, and performance, making them a great investment for anyone serious about espresso.