10 Best Office Espresso Machines
Coffee, espresso, tea are a must-have in any office setting. So how do you get your regular dose without having to frequent the local coffee shop? Machines, yes, getting an espresso machine will not only save you money, but it will also save you the time of going back and forth to the coffee shop.
Making espresso requires less water than a traditional coffee. It has a smoother taste and takes a minimum of nine bars of pressure to get it ready, which shortens the brewing time to less than 30 seconds.
The result of brewing espresso is a thicker, creamier, and stronger-tasting coffee than a regular coffee. Note that espresso has more caffeine per fluid ounce than a regular coffee, and a single shot of espresso measures an average of .88 an ounce.
An espresso machine is undoubtedly an investment, so you must go for the best when purchasing one. Getting an espresso machine might seem easy, but not every machine gets the job done. If you are looking for a machine that can turn out espresso and froth milk, you should consider some crucial factors before purchasing.
What should you look out for when buying an espresso machine?
You certainly do not want a machine that will be difficult for everyone in the office to use. Also, no one likes being in charge of a messy clean-up. Below are some of the things to look out for when buying an espresso machine.
- It should be easy to clean.
- Low maintenance
- Efficient
- Durable
The good thing is several machines meet these requirements. The best office espresso machines can help you get your latte or cappuccino at the comfort of your office.
There are several ways to make an espresso, which brings us to the different espresso machines available.
Types of Espresso Machine
When considering buying an espresso machine, you must first decide on the type to meet your office needs. Espresso machines are available in three different types; they are:
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Super-automatic Machines
Super-automatic espresso machines are the best kind out there. They are easy to use and do everything from grinding the beans to setting the temperature. However, they are expensive and need more maintenance and care than other types.
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Semi-automatic Machines
The semi-automatic espresso machines are what you see in most coffee shops. It is popular amongst baristas. It requires the user to grind the beans and monitor the machine while using it. It is cost-efficient but requires more work to get your espresso ready.
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Fully automatic pod Machines
Pods are becoming quite popular among espresso lovers, though they are inferior to either of the other types. Pods are easy to use; it requires placing the pod and turning it on. Sadly, they produce inferior coffee in terms of taste and quality.
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Manual Machines
Manual espresso machines require finely ground beans to be scooped into a portafilter and tamped down. The filter is then attached to the brew head while the lever is used to pull water through the grounds manually. This method is quite difficult and stressful, but it is the most customizable method.
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Capsule Machines
This type of machine uses capsules or pods filled with pre-measured coffee to make espresso.
When choosing the right espresso machine, you must find an option that serves everybody’s needs in the office. If the machine is everybody, you should consider a top-of-the-line automatic large-capacity machine that can be programmed. It allows you to brew several cups in a row. If you’re buying for personal use, you can get the capsule machine that uses pre-measured pods; it allows you to quickly brew a single serving.
Whichever style suits your office, we’ve put together some of the best office espresso machines to help you make the right choice.
10 Best Office Espresso Machines
Nespresso VertuoLine Evoluo
The Nespresso VirtuoLine Evoluo is an easy and convenient machine to use. It is cost-efficient and comes with specialized Nespresso disposable capsules. The capsules are great as they are easy to install and produce quality coffee.
This machine is programmed to pick and grind the beans. It also comes with an Aeroccino Plus milk frother that heats milk quickly for a creamy drink or adds froth to an iced coffee.
Features
- Aeroccino Plus milk frother
- Removable capsule
- New revolutionary Centrifusion technology
- Removable water tank
- Capsule recognition and code reading technology
- Automatic off when inactive after 9 minutes
- Easy insertion and ejection of capsule
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Rapid one touch preparation of hot or cold milk froth
- Easy to store
- Foolproof operation
Cons
- Limited to the coffee capsules
- No handcraft presentation
Nespresso Inissia Espresso Maker
Nespresso Inissia Espresso Maker will make a beautiful addition to the staff kitchen. This is a compact model espresso machine that is suitable for offices on a strict budget.
Features
- Energy-efficient
- Fast pre-heating
- Two programmable buttons for espresso and lungo preparation
- Easy insertion and ejection of capsules
- Removable 24-ounce water tank
- 19 high-pressure bar pump
Pros
- Compact
- Start-up is fast
- Easy to carry
- It comes in different colours.
Cons
- It does not include the Aeroccino for milk frothing and heating.
Gaggia Accademia Espresso Machine
Gaggia Accademia Espresso Machine is a super-automatic machine suitable for a shared kitchen that requires a machine with a greater functional variety and a capacity to serve masses. Although expensive, you’ll get the value of the money spent on this machine.
Features
- Pre-brewing system
- Integrated bean hopper and double lid aroma saver
- Ceramic burr grinder
- Programmable coffee quantity
- Integrated coffee ground container
- Adjustable telescopic coffee dispenser
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Low maintenance
- Easy customization
Cons
- Not compatible with oily beans
- Not programmed to pick beans
- The internal drip tray must be emptied daily
Ultima Pro
Ultima Pro is easy and convenient to use. It produces smooth cups of creamy espresso.
Features
- Button for a double espresso
- Hot water and steam
- Programmed to brew customized sizes
- A holder for coffee-measuring spoon and coffee filter
- Water tank
Pros
- Easy to use
- Compact
- Steam wand linked to froth milk
- Great value for money
Cons
- Small water tank
Barista Pro
Barista Pro is an automatic espresso machine that allows you to choose from 30 different grind sizes and five temperatures.
Features
- Four filter baskets
- Two pre-ground coffee
- Two for whole coffee beans
- 30 grind sizes
- Five temperature options
Pros
- Automatic machine
- Steam wand for frothing milk
- Customizable
Cons
- It takes a while to get accustomed to the buttons.
Bambino Plus
Bambino Plus is a perfect automatic espresso machine for people who loves the traditional method of making espresso.
Features
- Two dual-wall filter baskets for pre-ground coffee beans
- Trimming cool
- Tamper
- Milk jug
- Steam wand
Pros
- Perfect for traditionalists
- Easy to operate
- Customizable
Essenza Mini
Essenza Mini is a small and compact capsule espresso machine. It allows you to choose either espresso or lungo.
Features
- 19 bars of pressure
- Water tank
Pros
- Removable drip base
Cons
- Small water tank
Krups Super Automatic Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
Krups super-automatic espresso machine is straightforward and easy to use. With the ON button, you can easily navigate your way through setting up the machine.
Features
- Thermoblock heating technology
- A built-in metal conical burr grinder
- Drip tray
- Adjustable grind setting
- Water tank
- Steam nozzle
Pros
- Clear instruction
- User-friendly control panel
- Compact
- Programmable brew time
La Specialista
La Specialista automatic espresso machine is easy to use and can be customized based on your preference.
Features
- Six grind sizes and five brew options
- Easy to use and adjust
- Adjustable steam wand
- Built-in tamping mechanism
- Dispenses hot water
Mr. Coffee Occasions Coffee Maker
Mr. Coffee Occasions Coffee Maker is an all-in-one machine. It can make espresso, K-cup based drink or even a full pot of coffee. It is easy to use and will keep your coffee hot for hours.
Features
- Steam wand for froth milk
- User-friendly control panel
- Thermal carafe
- Capability for espresso, K-cup brews, or pots of drip coffee
While each office has its policies, there’s no going wrong with a cup of your favourite espresso to boost morale and productivity. Regardless of an individual’s need, each of these products offers ease, quality, and good value for money.