Is it possible to make espresso shots with a cheaper espresso maker?

Espresso is often considered the pinnacle of coffee drinking, with its rich, intense flavor and delicate balance of flavors that only comes from the perfect combination of water pressure, temperature, and grind quality. However, many coffee enthusiasts, including myself, wonder if it's possible to achieve this level of quality using a cheaper espresso maker. The short answer is: yes, it is possible, but with certain caveats.

Pressure

True espresso requires a machine that can generate at least 9 bars of pressure, a standard set by the industry that ensures the precise extraction necessary for the rich flavor and texture. While many budget espresso machines can achieve this, some may not, which can result in a lesser quality espresso. This is crucial, as the pressure provides the force needed to extract the essential oils and flavors from the coffee grounds, resulting in that characteristic crema on top of the espresso shot.

Temperature Control

Good espresso is made with precise temperature control, typically around 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C). This temperature range is essential for the proper extraction of the beans. Cheaper espresso machines may struggle to maintain the necessary temperature stability, leading to a potential loss of flavor and consistency. Accurate temperature control ensures that the water is at the optimal temperature for the volatile compounds in the coffee to be released, contributing to the rich and aromatic flavor of the espresso.

Grind Size and Quality

The grind of the coffee beans is crucial for making espresso. A burr grinder is generally recommended for consistent grind size, as it ensures that the coffee is ground to a uniform particle size. This consistency is vital for a good extraction, as it allows the water to pass through the grounds evenly and extract the flavors. If you're using pre-ground coffee, ensure it's suitable for espresso, as pre-ground coffee can vary greatly in freshness and grind consistency.

Build Quality

Lower-priced machines may use less durable materials, which can affect their longevity and performance over time. Ensuring that your machine is built to last is important, as a machine that breaks down frequently can be a setback for your coffee-making endeavors. A well-built machine will not only last longer but also provide more consistent results, which is crucial for making espresso.

Features

More expensive machines often come with additional features, such as a steam wand for frothing milk, which can enhance your coffee-making experience. While these features are not strictly necessary for producing espresso, they can make the process more enjoyable and versatile. If you don't have such features, don't worry, as with skill and attention to detail, you can still achieve excellent results with a basic machine.

User Skill

Making good espresso also depends on the barista's skill. Even with a lower-end machine, you can still produce decent espresso if you pay attention to the grind, tamping, and extraction time. Tamping the coffee grounds firmly into the portafilter is key, as it affects the compression of the grounds and, consequently, the flow of water through them. The right grind size and proper tamping are essential for achieving that perfect shot.

Conclusion

In summary, while a cheaper espresso machine can produce espresso shots, the quality may vary. If you're serious about espresso, investing in a mid-range machine could yield better results and consistency. There are also ways to upgrade your existing machine, such as making a portafilter pressurized using home hacks, which can help you achieve better results with the machine you have. However, if you're looking to consistently produce high-quality espresso, investing in a more robust machine is recommended.

For example, machines like the one mentioned in the original post are often referred to as steam toys by coffee nuts, including myself. They can produce a halfway decent latte with a skilled or quick-to-learn operator. However, for a decent espresso, it is practically impossible with such a machine. If you already own such a machine, you could try making the portafilter pressurized. I have created an ible about this: Make a Pressurized Portafilter for a Cheap Espresso Machine. If you do not have such a machine yet, and espresso is one of your desired drinks, go for a higher bracket machine.

Additional Resources

For more information on espresso machines and techniques, you might find the following resources helpful: