You have finally decided it is time to purchase a new espresso machine. You may not even be sure you need an espresso machine. Maybe you just want to make cappuccinos at home and strong coffee with frothed milk will do just fine. (Actually cappuccinos, lattes and mochas are espresso based beverages so to make them correctly, you would need an espresso machine – but more on that later) Perhaps you are a true espresso aficionado and are longing to pull that perfect shot. Wanting to learn more before you buy, you head out to a store or start searching the web. How difficult can it be? Perhaps the first thing you realize is that "expresso machine" is not the correct spelling and your confidence may be shaken slightly. (Don't worry, expresso is a very common misspelling.) Next you start seeing words like super automatic, pump driven, semi-automatic, pressurized portafilters, semi-commercial, bars of pressure, double boiler, tamping and more. The more you look, the more confusing and overwhelming it seems. The high school sales person at the kitchen store recommends one espresso maker; your brother’s friend’s cousin who just vacationed in Italy recommends another. After a while you become numb and give up. Sound familiar? We certainly understand the frustration. That’s where we come in. When customers come into our store or call us on the phone asking for help choosing an espresso maker, we discuss many factors that may affect their decision. Considerations include lifestyle, budget, cosmetic preferences, durability and intended use to name just a few. When considering all of these questions, we usually start by asking what are you currently using, if anything, and what do you like and dislike about it. We may ask when do you enjoy your coffee beverages and what type of beverages you enjoy? Would you like to brew a coffee or cappuccino rushing out the door on the way to the office? Do you throw large dinner parties? Will you be using the machine in a coffee shop or doing catering on the side? Yes, there is a lot to consider, but as you read on and learn more about this magical brew and understand the differences between machine types and features, you will find it much easier to find that perfect espresso machine for you. Our virtual advisor will help lead you through some important questions and our product comparator will help you find the features and performance you desire. But first, we strongly recommend learning more about espresso itself and all of the wonderful beverages derived from this special brew. Become familiar with some of the industry terminology, learn about the different types of machines that are available and understand the advantages and disadvantages of each.