This article aims to investigate the main features and functionality of semi-automatic coffee machines, a solution used by an increasing number of consumers who want to enjoy a real espresso inside the own home.
WHAT IS A SEMI-AUTOMATIC COFFEE MACHINE?
Semi-automatic coffee machines are an excellent solution for preparing an espresso with characteristics very similar to beverages usually enjoyed in cafes and bars. However, the use of these models requires a certain level of knowledge and skills which, once developed, can be very useful for adapting drinks to your personal taste. The main difference between this type of appliance and an automatic coffee machine is that you have to put the ground coffee yourself inside the filter holder. Semi-automatic coffee machines can also be used to froth milk with the help of a special built-in steam wand.
THE MAIN COMPONENTS OF SEMI-AUTOMATIC COFFEE MACHINES
The main features and components of the semi-automatic coffee machines are the following:
- Extraction group: semi-automatic coffee machines intended for domestic use usually have a brewing group, while the professional models can have up to four groups.
- PID: The semi-automatic models have special PID indicators designed to check the pressure reached during coffee preparation (it should be around 9 bar). Professional models feature a second PID which also indicates the boiler pressure. When the barometer usually reaches the level of 1.1 bar, it means that the machine has already warmed up and can be used for extraction operations.
- Thermometer: the semi-automatic models allow you to adjust the temperature of the boiler water which must usually reach 90–94 ° C. The professional models also allow you to change the temperature of the steam to regulate the force used to generate the steam through the steam wand.
- Boiler: semi-automatic coffee machines have a boiler for beverage extraction. The professional models can also have two separate boilers respectively dedicated to the preparation of beverages and the production of steam for the preparation of milk-based beverages.
- Filter holder: essential tool to collect the ground coffee from the grinder and insert it into the coffee machine to proceed with the extraction operations.
- The semi-automatic models allow you to precisely control all the activities involved within the beverage extraction process. For this reason, they require a certain amount of attention and skill in managing the dispensing process.
- With these coffee machine models it is possible to prepare all the drinks that you can usually enjoy inside a bar: from espresso to cappuccino, from restricted coffee to latte macchiato.
- The knowledge and skills that you can develop by managing the various preparation activities, combined with the choice of a good coffee machine, will allow you to obtain results of the highest quality.
- The semi-automatic models available on the market for the domestic sector have reached an excellent level of quality and price.
- The first disadvantage is the need for immediate skills and knowledge for the preparation of even very simple drinks.
- The preparation process also requires more time than that required by the super-automatic models both as regards the technical time for heating the machine and for the times dedicated to all the manual activities of grinding, inserting the filter holder, extraction, etc.
- The use of all accessories requires a careful daily maintenance phase for cleaning the filter holder, the steam wand and the milk carafe.
- The semi-automatic models allow you to precisely control all the activities involved within the beverage extraction process. For this reason, they require a certain amount of attention and skill in managing the dispensing process.
- With these coffee machine models it is possible to prepare all the drinks that you can usually enjoy inside a bar: from espresso to cappuccino, from restricted coffee to latte macchiato.
- The knowledge and skills that you can develop by managing the various preparation activities, combined with the choice of a good coffee machine, will allow you to obtain results of the highest quality.
- The semi-automatic models available on the market for the domestic sector have reached an excellent level of quality and price.
CONS OF SEMI-AUTOMATIC COFFEE MACHINES
- The first disadvantage is the need for immediate skills and knowledge for the preparation of even very simple drinks.
- The preparation process also requires more time than that required by the super-automatic models both as regards the technical time for heating the machine and for the times dedicated to all the manual activities of grinding, inserting the filter holder, extraction, etc.
- The use of all accessories requires a careful daily maintenance phase for cleaning the filter holder, the steam wand and the milk carafe.
SOME TIPS FOR BUYING A SEMI-AUTOMATIC COFFEE MACHINE
After having illustrated the characteristics and main advantages and disadvantages of semi-automatic coffee machines, we offer you three different models, each one characterized by specific characteristics and respective price ranges.
ENTRY LEVEL MODEL – GAGGIA CLASSIC PRO
The new Gaggia Classic Pro, made entirely in Italy, improves the already very reliable reputation of the previous model. The machine features a group with professional filter holder, a new steam wand, rocker switches, a new interface with lights dedicated to temperature control and an aerodynamic frame available in five different colors. Gaggia Classic Pro can be defined as the best entry-level semi-automatic machine on the market.
MEDIUM MODEL – NUOVA SIMONELLI OSCAR 22
Nuova Simonelli Oscar 22 is a semi-automatic machine adaptable to all domestic needs and some professional needs like small offices and coffee shops. The machine is characterized by a new minimal and compact design. The machine body, available in three colors, is made mainly of stainless steel. The new thermo-filled group allows to obtain quality extractions while the new cool touch steam wand allows the preparation of milk-based drinks. The machine is very versatile and is available both with direct connection to the water mains and with a 2.3 liter water tank to prepare a good coffee anywhere.
TOP LEVEL – VICTORIA ARDUINO E1 PRIMA
Victoria Arduino E1 PRIMA is a professional espresso coffee machine that guarantees high quality standards with unique versatility. The machine has a double boiler technology which is thermally insulated and protected by an innovative material which avoids energy dispersion. The new engine with NEO (New Engine Optimization) technology guarantees high performance, reducing energy consumption and warm-up times. The Steam-by-Wire system allows you to dispense steam with a pressure of up to 2.5 bar (the standard size is 2.1 which heats 250g of milk, the equivalent of two cappuccinos, in less than 18 seconds). The machine can also be managed through a dedicated APP that allows you to optimize use and energy consumption.
