For a good quality home espresso coffee maker, go with one with an internal electric pump for creating the water pressure. Steam-pressure units are smaller and cheaper, and somewhat inferior to the pump models. They’re not terrible, you’ll just get weaker espresso because the pressure levels are lower. It’s the pressure that brings the flavour out of the coffee grounds, so you want it to be sufficient.

Pump espresso machines can cost you anywhere from a hundred bucks, up to more than a thousand, so there is quite a quality range to consider. Most average household espresso drinkers are happy with machines between $100 and $500.

And you can even have the best of both worlds, with combo machines that can make both espresso and regular drip coffee. They’re convenient, but not always the best quality as the espresso part of the machine is usually smaller and simpler than a typical stand-alone espresso maker. Krups and Delonghi both make several models of espresso/coffee combo machines.

For making more elaborate espresso drinks, like a latte or cappuccino, you’ll need a machine that has a milk frothing attachment. These wands use the water pressure from the espresso machine to foam milk, either in a separate container or using its own tank for milk. Foamed milk is the traditional topping for espresso and adds a bit of style to your drinks. If you are watching your diet, you might be pleased to know that skim milk actually foams up better than whole milk.

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