As for which classification of espresso machine is the right one for you, Mudge says that, “the best choice comes down to how involved you want to be in your daily coffee ritual.” Another way you might put it: Do you want to be the barista, or do you want your coffeemaker to be the barista for you? More on that below.
Why you should (or shouldn’t) get a super-automatic espresso machine
If you’ve got spreadsheets of roasts, grinds, and bloom times, you don’t need a rec for anything that makes your coffee for you. Check out some of the prosumer models senior editor Noah Kaufman recommends in this espresso machine review.
If you’re not that intense about your coffee, you should know what you get and what you give up going the super-auto route. “The biggest tradeoff is control,” Mudge advised. “A coffee enthusiast who enjoys experimenting with every variable may prefer a manual or semi-automatic machine,” but, she says, what they take away in control super-autos compensate for in consistency. “They grind fresh beans for every drink, precisely control brewing, and make it easy to prepare specialty beverage. If you’re someone who wants a cappuccino every morning without thinking about grind settings or extraction time, a super-automatic is ideal.”
And espresso-savvy home baristas can still find value in coffee quality and fine-tunability in a super-automatic setup, especially if they’re willing to pay for it. “As you move up in price, you typically get better grinders, quiet operation, and greater beverage customization,” Mudge said. “Ultimately, the higher price reflects greater durability, more advanced technology and a more refined coffee experience.”
The bottom line: Super-automatic espresso machines are like the fancy cousins of single-serve coffee makers. So if you’ve been underwhelmed by some of the cheaper pod options out there, perhaps these are how you level up.
The Best Super-Automatic Espresso Machine: De’Longhi PrimaDonna Aromatic
De’Longhi
Prima Donna Automatic Espresso Machine
Pros
- Hot and cold milk aeration
- Automated “bean adapt” walkthrough
- Easy cleaning of internal components
Cons
- Finicky menu screen buttons
- Limited cup size compatibility
Dimensions: 18.25 in. S x 10.3 in. W x 16 in. H
Drink styles: 38
Water tank capacity: 60 ounces
Milk system: Yes, hot and cold
Max. cup height: 5.46 in.
