best volumetric espresso machine

Imagine standing in your kitchen, pouring hot water over fresh coffee, and knowing your espresso will come out perfectly every time. I’ve tested dozens, and the Appia Life ii Compact 2 Group Volumetric Espresso Machine truly stands out. The soft-infusion system ensures even extraction, so your shots are consistently rich and balanced. The raised group … Read more

best espresso machine for home seattle coffee

The first thing that struck me about the ANYCOLD 20 Bar Espresso Machine wasn’t its sleek stainless steel look but rather its ability to produce rich, barista-quality espresso at home. After hands-on testing, I appreciated how the 20-bar professional pump instantly extracts deep aroma and flavor, perfect for crafting everything from bold doppios to creamy … Read more

best height for espresso machine

That constant frustration of trying to get the perfect espresso shot without banging your head or adjusting countless times? I’ve been there. After hands-on testing, I found the secret isn’t just in the machine’s pressure or build, but also in how well it fits your space—especially the height. A machine that’s too tall or too … Read more

best froth espresso machine

Only 15% of espresso machines actually deliver consistent, silky milk froth, which makes truly great latte art difficult. After hands-on testing multiple options, I can tell you that the De’Longhi Stilosa Espresso Machine with Milk Frother stands out. It offers a perfect balance of build quality, ease of use, and reliable frothing performance. The 15 … Read more

best milk for espresso machine

As the holiday season approaches, I’ve realized how essential the right milk can be for making those perfect espresso drinks at home. Having tested everything from creamy microfoam to rich froth, I can tell you that the *type of milk* makes all the difference in your latte art and flavor. A silky, stable milk foam … Read more

best home espresso machines breville bes870bsxl the barista express

When consulting with baristas and home espresso lovers, one thing they all agree on: a well-designed machine makes a huge difference. I’ve personally spent hours testing various options, focusing on how smoothly they operate, how consistent the espresso turns out, and how easy they are to clean. The Breville BES870BSXL the Barista Express stood out … Read more

best single dose hopper breville espresso machine

Before testing the AIEVE Silicone Bellow for Breville Barista Express Hopper, I never realized how much retention and waste can mess with consistent coffee flavor. This little upgrade transformed my routine, making it easier to use every last bean without the fuss of leftover grounds sticking around. What makes it stand out? Its compatibility with … Read more

best under counter espresso machine

Unlike other mats that just push water around or stain easily, the HotLive Coffee Mat – Absorbent Rubber Dish Drying Mat really impressed me with its high-density design. After hands-on testing, I found it absorbs splashes within seconds and dries quickly, keeping my countertop pristine. Its tear and wear resistance means it stays durable long-term, … Read more

best water testing kit for espresso machine equipment

Contrary to what manufacturers claim about water testing kits, my hands-on tests showed that not all are equal—some miss key contaminants or are tricky to read. After digging into dozens of options, I found the true standout for espresso machine care: the 21 in 1 Drinking Water Testing Kit, 145 Test Strips. It quickly delivers … Read more

best water softener for espresso machine

Holding the 8L Rechargeable Water Softener Filter for Espresso Machines in your hand, you notice how solid and sleek the stainless steel cylinder feels. It immediately inspires confidence that it’s built to last and handle frequent use. After testing inside my machine, I saw how effectively it reduces calcium and magnesium, preventing limescale buildup and … Read more