Are you pressed for time? The ROK Presso Manual Espresso Maker is the greatest manual espresso maker in our opinion and is therefore our top selection.
Investing in your very first hand-cranked machine?
You’ve entered the realm of people who are actual espresso artists.
Now I’m sure you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of strangely designed manual machines that are currently available on the market. Without a doubt, I was.
Because of this, I have conducted extensive research on all of the characteristics that a manual espresso machine should have, as well as which models currently available on the market contain all of these features.
I’m going to show you in this article what I believe to be the best manual espresso machine on the market today, as well as its two or three closest competitors.
Therefore, keep reading to learn more about this topic!
Are you pressed for time? The ROK Presso Manual Espresso Maker is the greatest manual espresso maker in our opinion and is therefore our top selection.
Investing in your very first hand-cranked machine?
You’ve entered the realm of people who are actual espresso artists.
Now I’m sure you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of strangely designed manual machines that are currently available on the market. Without a doubt, I was.
Because of this, I have conducted extensive research on all of the characteristics that a manual espresso machine should have, as well as which models currently available on the market contain all of these features.
I’m going to show you in this article what I believe to be the best manual espresso machine on the market today, as well as its two or three closest competitors.
Therefore, keep reading to learn more about this topic!
This model made by ROK has earned the number one slot on this list without a doubt. It is inexpensive, easy to use, portable, and simple to clean up after usage. If you ask me, those are the four aspects of a manual espresso machine that stand out to me as the most significant.
First, let’s discuss about design. You probably won’t even need to look at the documentation for this device because it is so easy to use. The portafilter is where you’ll put your coffee, while the pressure chamber is where you’ll pour your hot water.
After that, it’s time to get in a basic and speedy workout. To generate the necessary pressure for manufacturing espresso, it is sufficient to depress both of the levers located on the machine. One cup may be produced by this machine in fewer than thirty seconds.
The fact that this coffee maker can be easily transported is one of the aspects that I appreciate most about it. In addition to not requiring an electrical outlet, it is also quite compact and easy to transport. When you can make coffee at home whenever and whenever you want, there’s no reason to buy it from Starbucks.
Pros
• When compared to the majority of manual espresso makers now available on the market, this one won’t put as big of a dent in your wallet.
While you are applying pressure to the espresso machine, the rubber legs protect it from moving, preventing any accidents from occurring.
This coffee machine is ideal for taking on trips due to the fact that it is both lightweight and space-saving.
• It is simple to disassemble and clean each of the component parts.
Cons
• In order to bring the portafilter up to the temperature necessary for coffee extraction, you will need to preheat it.
Flair Espresso Maker
Imagine being able to take pleasure in your coffee wherever you go, whether you’re traveling or spending the weekend in the great outdoors. To put it simply, that is precisely what it is about this espresso maker that I adore.
This device operates only on human effort and requires no external power source. After putting the water and coffee in their respective compartments, all that’s left to do is draw the piston to make a cup of espresso.
Because the piston is capable of reaching a pressure of between 8 and 16 bars, you have the ability to experiment with varying degrees of coffee extraction. Additionally, the product provides you with a personalized pressure gauge, which enables you to obtain extremely accurate readings.
This coffee machine that makes espresso needs to be cleaned after each usage. That also includes taking apart each component and rinsing it in the sink after you’ve finished. It’s possible that this will seem like a lot of work, but in reality, it won’t take more than a few minutes to complete.
Pros
This model is kind to your money because it is one of the manual espresso makers that is available on the market that has the lowest price.
• This type, which is made of aluminum and stainless steel, will serve you well for a very long time.
• The pressure gauge enables you to monitor the pressure that is being applied, which enables you to alter the outcome.
• Has a warranty that covers defects for a period of three years, so you don’t have to worry about receiving a faulty item.
Cons
• Because the cylinder can become quite hot, you must refrain from cleaning it until it has had a chance to completely cool down.
Elektra S1 Micro Casa
When it comes to looks, manual espresso makers absolutely blow my mind, and this retro model by Elektra is clearly something else entirely. However, once you learn that this device has been there since the 1940s and hasn’t undergone any significant modifications since then, I guess everything starts to make sense.
I won’t sugarcoat it: this espresso machine is on the bulky side and definitely not portable. After all, it is equipped with a sizable boiler, which is not something that is typically included in manually operated equipment.
This machine does require a bit more time to reach the desired temperature after being started because the boiler has a capacity of 61 ounces. However, after that is done, you are free to prepare numerous cups of coffee in rapid succession. If we do the arithmetic, that comes out to between twenty and thirty cups of espresso.
There is not a great deal of room for speculation here. The pressure gauge will let you know when it is ready to extract espresso while the sight glass will show you how much water is currently in the machine. All you have to do is pull the lever all the way down.
I really like how this device comes with a variety of various safety measures. To begin, there is a safety switch located on the bottom that prevents the device from overheating. The overpressure valve, which stops the container from exploding due to excessive pressure, is the next component.
The plug at the end of the cord is grounded, which reduces the risk of electric shock. Because of all of these precautions, it is virtually impossible for this equipment to ever experience a malfunction.
Pros
• Includes a milk-based drink-making steam wand that can be withdrawn for simple cleanup; this wand is designed to be used with milk-based beverages.
• The pressure gauge will let you know when the machine has reached the ideal pressure for preparing espresso, ensuring that each and every cup is properly extracted.
• If you have a large boiler, you’ll be able to brew multiple cups of coffee at the same time.
• Includes a number of different safety mechanisms that protect against damage that could be caused by a malfunction.
Cons
• Because it takes so long to achieve the required temperature, it is not one of the most efficient versions that are currently on the market.
La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola Espresso Machine
This handy appliance is ideal for use in RVs and other vehicles with limited cooking space. In spite of its diminutive size, this model includes a water tank that is a respectable 20 ounces in capacity. Not only can you brew an entire pot of espresso without needing to replace the water, but you can also brew two cups at once in this machine.
Now, I’m not saying that a boiler with a capacity of 20 ounces is enormous, but for a family with two people who enjoy espresso, it’s more than plenty.
The maximum amount of time required to heat up the boiler is six minutes. The device will provide you with a light signal when it has reached the appropriate pressure level. After that, all you have to do to receive your cup of coffee is lower the level. In addition, there is an automatic frother, which enables you to enjoy beverages that contain milk.
This type comes equipped with a safety valve and a boiler fuse, both of which serve to protect against accidents caused by excessive heat or pressure. Even though it is unlikely that any of these things will ever occur, it is still beneficial to know that your equipment is prepared for them.
Pros
• A milk frother that is automatic gives you the ability to make all of your favorite milk-based coffee drinks.
• An eight-cup capacity lets you to make espresso with a 20-ounce boiler without having to reload it.
• Due to its modest size, this appliance is ideal for use in kitchens with limited space.
• Includes a cappuccino attachment in addition to a steam wand, allowing you to prepare espresso beverages that contain milk.
Cons
• It takes some time to reach the ideal temperature after being cooled down.
La Pavoni PC-16 Professional Espresso Machine
This espresso machine’s boiler has a capacity of 38 ounces, which allows it to produce up to 16 shots before requiring a refill. Because of this, the machine is ideal for use in homes with more than one person who enjoys drinking espresso.
You will receive not just one but two attachments to ensure that your foam is always correct!
The first option is a traditional steam wand, which provides you with foam that is uniform each and every time.
The second accessory is known as a “cappuccino attachment,” and it enables users to create elaborate latte art as well as huge foam. Therefore, depending on the beverage, you have a lot of leeway to experiment and come up with unique foam each time.
The body of this espresso machine is incredibly durable, and it will continue to serve you well for many years to come. Everything about it is composed of metal, with the exception of the handles, which are crafted from wood.
This, of course, also implies that you need to clean it on a regular basis. The good news is that each component can be dismantled quickly and is compatible with vinegar-based cleaning solutions.
Pros
• If you have a large boiler, you can create a lot of shots without having to replenish it.
• Because there are two alternative attachments for frothing, you may customize the foam to just as you want it.
• This espresso machine has two spouts, so you may prepare two cups of coffee at the same time.
• The machine’s solid and long-lasting build comes from its use of metal.
Cons
• Because it takes a while to heat the water, you have to turn on the appliance in advance so that it can get ready.
What You Need To Know About Espresso Makers That Are Manual
Espresso makers that are operated manually aren’t quite as user-friendly as their automatic equivalents.
Therefore, it is difficult to know what you should be searching for if you have never used one before.
I’m going to spend the rest of this part discussing some of the most essential aspects of manual machines.
Type Of Lever
Espresso machines that are operated by hand typically come with either a spring or a direct lever as the operating mechanism.
Because you don’t have to put in as much effort to operate the spring lever, it’s a little bit simpler to do so. You only need to apply downward pressure on it, but the spring is the one responsible for generating the necessary pressure to extract the grounds.
The results that you get from using a spring lever are reliable, making it an excellent tool for novices. On the other hand, it does not provide a lot of leeway for tinkering with the final output.
On the other hand, a direct lever is trickier to use than an indirect one. In order to remove your coffee, you will need to apply direct pressure. This indicates that you have complete control over the final product of your coffee, which is the realization of every barista’s lifelong ambition.
That further implies that there is a steep learning curve. The skill of brewing the ideal cup of espresso is one that requires some practice before it can be mastered. If, on the other hand, honing your barista abilities is what you have in mind, you’re going to adore the control that the direct lever offers you over the culmination of your efforts.
Electric Plug
In the case of espresso makers that are operated manually, electricity facilitates the heating of water prior to the brewing process. When utilizing a type that does not include an electric heating element, you will need to heat the water in a pot, kettle, or something else of a similar nature.
There is not one of these choices that is preferable than the other. Electric devices are typically more cumbersome and expensive than their manual counterparts. However, these machines can also come equipped with a steam wand, which is something that manual espresso makers do not have.
Capacity of the Tank
This is undeniably an important consideration to take into account if everyone in your household enjoys drinking espresso.
You need to keep in mind that the water capacity of the majority of manual machines is only sufficient for a single shot. Because of this, you will need to fill each cup with additional water as you make it.
There are certainly electric models available that do not require constant refilling because they contain a water tank that is big enough to hold eight or more cups of water. Bear in mind, however, that the majority of the time it will take some time for these devices to reach operating temperature.
Material
These days, you can buy manual espresso machines manufactured out of just about any material imaginable, from plastic to cast iron. In addition, the selection of the material is not only what decides the cost of the machine but also the amount of time it will last.
Brass and steel are the best available options in terms of quality, followed by aluminum as the next best choice. When it comes to the safety of plastic parts, you should seek for labels that say they are BPA-safe.
Maintenance
Espresso makers that are operated manually do not include self-cleaning settings or indicator lights to let you know when it is necessary to descale the machine. You are responsible for maintaining the established cleaning schedule.
Make sure the model you choose is simple to take apart and clean if you want your work to be a little less difficult.
If the components can be cleaned in a dishwasher, that is an added bonus. This does not apply to components made of cast iron or aluminum, as the dishwasher may scratch the coating on these materials.
FAQ
When first starting out, manual espresso makers might be fairly difficult to understand.
I’m going to answer some of the most often asked questions that people have concerning these machines in the next section.
What exactly is meant by the term “manual espresso machine”?
If you choose to use a manual espresso machine, you will need to be actively involved in each step of the brewing process. It is necessary to bring the water to a boil, to tamp the grinds, and for you to draw the shot while applying your own pressure.
You will have total command over everything with the help of this kind of equipment. This involves the grind of the coffee, the temperature, the pressure, and the length of time for the extraction. Everything is carried out by hand, as one might expect given the nature of the endeavor. However, as a consequence of this, you are able to customize your beverage exactly how you would like it to taste.
What sets an automatic espresso machine apart from a manual one, and why would you want one?
The amount of espresso that is brewed may often be adjusted using knobs or buttons on an automatic espresso machine. After that, it takes care of all the laborious tasks for you. There is no such thing as an automatic machine that does not draw the shot for you, but some go beyond that and also grind and tamp the grounds.
When using manual machinery, you are the one who must put in the most effort. In order to extract a shot of espresso, you not only have to grind and tamp the coffee grounds, but you also have to apply the necessary amount of pressure.
Are Coffee Machines That Require Manual Labor Better?
Neither model of coffee maker is superior to the other. It all depends on how actively involved you want to be in the process of making the beer. There is also a machine that is only semi-automatic, which falls somewhere in the midst of the two categories described above.
To summarize everything:
A manual espresso machine is a piece of equipment that is essential for every self-proclaimed “espresso geek.” The ROK Presso is particularly noteworthy, despite the fact that every other model on this list is also an excellent illustration of a high-quality manual machine.
You have complete command over the brewing procedure while yet benefiting from the product’s reasonable price and high level of quality. You have a lot of room for experimentation with this espresso machine, which is great if you want to become a barista.
There is no need for a handbook because firing a shot is as simple as pulling down on both of the levers with your hands. The best part is that you can do it almost anyplace. To brew coffee with this espresso maker, you do not require access to an electrical outlet in any setting, including whether you are camping or traveling by car.
