Unlike manual machines that let you do pretty much everything, fully automatic machines will get things done for you. They handle all the work from grinding the beans, heating the water, to dispensing the espresso.
With automatic machines, you get to enjoy freshly brewed espresso since they don’t use plastic cups or pods. In this article, we will explore some of the coffee makers & espresso machines that are worth the investment.
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Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine w/LatteGo EP3241
To start off our list, let’s talk about the Philips 3200 Series. This is a fully automatic espresso machine that delivers a great shot of espresso each time. It is equipped with great features, including the LatteGo Milk System, which is rare in other models on the market.
This unit features a modern design and comes with front panel indicators that are large and clear. The control interface has touch-sensitive buttons that render it easy to use. You will also get notifications when you are out of beans and water or when the grinder needs to be emptied.
This machine is an excellent choice for anyone that is after the convenience of an automatic machine without breaking the bank. It is also great for those that enjoy different styles of beverages.
Pros:
Several settings to adjust temperature, strength, and cup sizes
Delivers 5 different beverages
Easy to clean
Intuitive touch screen
Cons:
Intricate set-up
Small grease tube
Smaller portion sizes for some
Key Features:
LatteGo Milk System
A key selling point of the Philips 3200 Series is the LatteGo accessory, which automatically froths milk to achieve silky smooth milk foam. The system features a special container that is attached to the black holder that dispenses milk. This feature makes it among the top-rated fully automatic espresso machines.
To use, you simply need to fill the container with milk and then clip it to the steam wand. Plus, the notches will tell you how much milk you need to pour.
The LatteGo system works by mixing milk and air at high speed to form the milk foam. Once done, it will dispense the milk froth layer to your latte or cappuccino at the ideal temperature. Something else you should know is that the LatteGo Milk System only works if you choose either a cappuccino or latte.
Nevertheless, it is easy to clean since it doesn’t contain any tubes within the milk system. You simply need to clean the 2 parts in the dishwasher or under running water.
5 Beverages
This espresso machine comes with 5 preset coffee options that allow you to make 5 different beverages with just a touch of the button. Whether you want an espresso, coffee, latte macchiato, cappuccino, or americano, this fully automatic machine will deliver.
If you are up for a double portion, you can easily brew two cups under coffee, espresso, and americano options. It can also dispense hot water.
Plus, it gives you the ability to adjust strength as well as the quantities of milk and drink on low, medium, or high settings. Additionally, you can adjust the temperature to your liking.
Taste
Unlike the previous Philips espresso models, the 3200 espresso machine has a strong aroma and taste. It is designed with 3 aroma strength settings that deliver the most flavor.
12-Steps Grinder Adjustment
The Philips 3200 series fully automatic espresso machine is equipped with a built-in grinder to give you the freshest cup of espresso each time. The grinder is fully adjustable with 12 steps and allows you to grind freshly ground coffee beans to your liking. Whether you want coarse grindings or ultra-fine powder, the 12-step grinder adjustment will give you what you want.
AquaClean Filter
Thanks to the AquaClean filter, you won’t need to descale for up to 5000 cups. The filter will ensure that you get the most out of your machine.
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine
Whether you are a novice or an expert looking for an easy way to enjoy an excellent cup of coffee, the Breville BES970XL Barista espresso machine might be what you need. This semi-automatic coffee is renowned for providing a remarkable performance.
Since it is semi-automatic, it gives you the ability to control the extraction time and the outcome. It comes with all the necessary accessories to enhance your brewing experience. However, this unit is an excellent choice if you are willing to learn how to brew espresso.
Pros:
Includes steam wand for milk frothing
Comes with a burr grinder
Easy to clean
Comes with carbon filters
Pressure gauge for enhanced taste
Stainless steel casing
Cons:
Heavy
Some parts are plastic
Key Features:
Design
The Breville BES970XL has a stainless steel casing and features a large and more robust appearance. The quality build comprises Italian-made parts that are conveniently placed and give it a professional-looking appearance.
The machine measures 16″ tall by 13.5″ wide and has a depth of 12.5″. While this is twice wider than most drip coffee makers, it can still fit well in most counter spaces.
Programmability
Just by glancing at it, you will see several buttons that you can use to program the machine. From left to right, there is the power button, grind amount button, single or double shot button, pressure gauge, program, and single or double shot button.
Built-in Grinder
It is equipped with a burr grinder, which means that you don’t have to buy yours separately. Lovers of freshly-brewed coffee will love the fact that the built-in grinder has 16 settings.
With this, you can grind your freshly ground beans in various settings depending on what you want to brew. This will make a difference in the flavor and freshness of your beverage.
360-Degree Swivel Wand
This coffee machine comes with an attached swivel wand that steams milk for when you want to make lattes or cappuccinos. The 360-degree wand moves in all directions for more convenience and to help you find the correct angle. For instance, you can turn it away from the machine when steaming the milk or customized to point downwards for easy storage.
Water Reservoir
The Breville Barista espresso machine comes with a 62 ounces water tank that is located behind the machine. This water tank capacity is enough for preparing several standard-sized cups of coffee without needing to refill it so often.
Cleaning
Just like most espresso machines, this model needs regular cleaning for it to work effectively. Fortunately, it is easy to clean when compared to most semi-automatic models, thanks to its less movable parts. It also features a built-in cleaning cycle that needs to be done periodically.
De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine with Sensor Grinder
If you are in the market for a high-performing semi-automatic espresso machine, then this espresso machine by De’Longhi may be worth considering. Although expensive, it is equipped with exceptional features, technology, and quality craftsmanship, making it worth every penny.
The machine has a dual heating system, integrated sensor grinder, and a water spout that can make Americano coffee and a cup of tea. These are just some of the outstanding functions that make this unit for anyone that doesn’t mind splurging on it.
Pros:
The integrated grinder includes a sensor
Shorter wait time
Reduces waste and mess
Great consistency and heat level
Quiet operation
Backed with full manufacturer warranty
Cons:
Expensive
Difficult to use
Malfunctioning drip tray full indicator
Key Features:
Built-In Coffee Grinder
When you purchase this espresso machine, you will get a sensor grinder for grinding coffee beans to get freshly brewed espresso. A major selling point of this grinder is that it uses a sensor grinding technology to produce fresh, consistent, and greatly-brewed coffee all the time.
In-Built Heating System
This semi-automatic espresso machine is integrated with a heating system that allows it to grind coffee at the right temperature. The coffee will be dispensed at the right temperature and level of freshness.
Smart Tamping Station
Do you get overwhelmed by the mess caused by the process of making coffee? If so, then you will be pleased to know that this espresso machine by De’Longhi has a smart tamping station that eliminates mess and waste.
Advanced Latte System
With the advanced Latte system, you can choose your preferred type of froth. The machine can make rich froths for cappuccinos as well as microfoam frothing. Plus, it allows you to froth manually or hands-free.
Active Temperature Control
With this feature, you can brew your cup of coffee at a preset temperature of your liking. Furthermore, it will retain the temperature set.
Second-Quick Start
This machine will save you time thanks to its fast start-up time of just one second. It will only take 1 second quick for the machine to start up grinding your coffee once you press go. No more waiting for it to warm up, which is quite impressive.
Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine w/Milk Frother
This is another espresso machine from Philips on our list of the best automatic espresso machines. Unlike the previous 3200 series that we covered, this model does not feature a LatteGo Milk System. Nonetheless, the two models share other features like an intuitive touch screen, 12-step grinder adjustment, AquaClean Filter, and more.
This machine is most if you crave for cappuccinos and latte macchiato, thanks to its classic milk frother. You will also enjoy 4 delicious coffee.
Pros:
4 preprogrammed coffee recipes
Includes classic frother
Intuitive touch screen
AquaClean filter to purify water
3 aroma strength setting
Cons:
Not very durable
Key Features:
Classic Milk Frother
This fully automatic espresso machine comes with a classic milk frother that is tasked with dispensing steam. This lets you prepare silk milk froth when you want to enjoy a cup of cappuccino. Better yet, the frother is easy to clean.
4 Aromatic Coffees
With this espresso machine, you can enjoy 4 coffees, including espresso, coffee Americano, coffee, espresso lungo, and hot water. You can make the coffee of your choice by just selecting the recipe.
3 Aroma Strength
This espresso machine by Philips lets you customize your coffee with 3 different aroma settings.
Intuitive Touch Display
Just like most Philip espresso machines, this unit has an intuitive touch display that ensures user-friendliness. Your next cup of high-quality coffee is just a button away. You simply need to select the recipe of choice, and the machine will handle the rest of the job.
12-Step Grinder Adjustment
This machine is equipped with a grinder that is not only tough but can also be adjusted to 12 settings. Whether you want coarseness or fineness, you can transform your coffee beans into what you want based on the recipe. This is an easy way to customize your coffee flavor.
AquaClean Filter
The Philips 3200 Series espresso machine with milk frother has an AquaClean filter that makes sure the water you use for your coffee is free from impurities. Plus, you won’t need to descaling frequently. You will enjoy up to 5000 cups of coffee before the next descaling.