Espressione EM-1020: All The Information You Need To Buy It. Buying a coffee machine is always a big decision and one that has to be taken only after solid consideration. Take a look at this blog to get all your information in one place. We are sure that will help you out.
Espressione EM-1020 Overview
Espressione EM-1020 depicts a perfect mix of performance and quality, though with limitations.
Espressione EM-1020 is manufactured by an Atlanta-based brand and brews coffee from espresso pods or ground coffee beans. The pump provided in this coffee machine operates at 1250 watts. This particular coffee maker comes among the 3 selling espresso coffee makers according to Amazon users despite being less expensive than the average coffee maker.
Its Atlanta-based manufacturer boasts a fine range of high-quality coffee, cappuccino, espresso makers, coffee grinders, a blend of whole bean coffee, and ESE espresso pods. Including the famous Espressione EM-1040 espresso maker that succeeds the EM-1020.
This semi-automatic espresso machine stands out for its powerful 19-bar commercial-like ULKA Italian pump. Which guarantees optimum extraction of flavours and aroma from the grounds. It also features a Swizz-style full-body stainless steel construction that embodies durability and the requisite ruggedness to thrive under heavy use.
Many other features give Espressione EM-1020 an edge over competitive espresso makers within its price range, and you will see them as you read. Sadly, the machine only makes espresso, unlike its successor- EM 1040, which has a coffee section. However, they do not have a built-in grinder.
Pros
- Powerful extraction pressure
- Sturdy construction
- Fast and consistent thermoblock heating system
- Easy-to-use functionality with programmable brew temperature and strength
- ESE pod compatible
Cons
- No built-in grinder
- No audio notification for complete brew
- Not fully automatic
Things to Consider Before Buying an Espresso Machine
1. Budget
Price plays a vital role in the overall quality/performance of the espresso machine you can get. It separates units of the same manufacturer by extra features like programmability, ease of use, speciality drinks available, and more. However, it hugely disperses espresso makers of different brands by durability, extraction ability, and the taste of your shots.
Having a budget will help you streamline your options. However, the journey isn’t so straightforward because the price isn’t the sole determinant of the quality of espresso makers, nor do they denote devices with tastier espresso. There are cheap units that produce better shots of espressos with more knacks than many pricier models.
Finally, espresso machines with built-in grinders and others like the EM1020 without. That means you will have to set out a section of your budget (maybe 30%) for a high-quality grinder. Otherwise, opt for ground coffee and invest all your budget in a high-quality espresso machine.
2. The Features
If you want an espresso machine that cuts, you might want to look beyond appearances. Your most suitable product might not be one that matches your home theme or appliances in your kitchen. Here are key features to look out for in an espresso machine:
- Pump Pressure – The higher the pump pressure, the better! Although the ideal pressure for extracting espresso is 9 bars, manufacturers equip their devices with more pressure to account for losses between the pump and group head. Imperatively, they may start at 19 bars but end up brewing at almost the standard 9 bars or a little higher.
- Heating Type – The heating type is further subdivided into the following types:
- Single Boiler – Inexpensive but inconsistent temperature control and cannot brew and steam simultaneously.
- Heat Exchanger Type – Can brew and steam simultaneously but without precise temperature control and requires cooling flush after use.
- Thermoblock System – More temperature control and precision in brewing but not suitable for making lots of drinks or large milk drinks.
- Dual Boiler Type – Supreme for a consistent brew, large milk drinks, and precise temperature control. Overall, it is suitable for all drink types, but units with this system are expensive.
- Construct – Machines with stainless steel outer bodies with the least plastic parts are the most durable.
- Product size
- Water reservoir capacity
- Does it have an integrated grinder?
- Is there a built-in steam wand on the machine?
Features and Benefits of Espressione EM-1020
Extraction (10/10)
Pump pressure is one significant factor determining an espresso machine’s performance and the shot it can pull. The EM-1020 comes with a powerful 19-bar Italian ULKA pressure pump system like those found in high-end commercial units.
Powerful pump pressure accounts for two primary benefits on your espresso’s extraction and overall quality. First, it improves extraction speed and lets you make the signature richness and crema you love a few seconds quicker than many competitors. Secondly, it increases extraction efficiency. Taking more flavours and aroma from the ground and guaranteeing full-bodied shots at all times.
Heating System (8/10)
Another outstanding feature of the EM-1020 is its thermoblock heating system. Though the device does not utilize the heating system (dual-boiler type), its heating system design helps it get the job done quite efficiently.
In simple terms, the thermoblock heating system on this product features a die-cast aluminium construction with a built-in stainless tube. Both of these ensure fast and consistent heat-up and constant temperature for perfect shots.
Lastly, the product has a pre-brewing function that infuses the coffee before the main brewing process to improve the flavour and aroma of the espresso.
Available Functions (8/10)
EM-1020 comes with a powerful spherical-headed plastic steam tube and a stainless steel steam nozzle to froth milk and prepare delicious cappuccinos and lattes. There is also a hot water function perfect for making tea or hot chocolate.
The semi-automatic espresso maker has a cup warming function at the height of the device that, you guess it right, pre-warms cups, ensuring your espresso retains heat and the crema for longer than usual.
The device can handle single and dual-cup brewing thanks to its moustache-style outlet on the integrated die-cast aluminium filter. It also has an electronic temperature control knob for selecting brew temperature and four more buttons for 1-cup, 2-cup, steam, and hot water. Nevertheless, two preset cup sizes allow you to quickly choose 1 or 2 cups for a single shot, a dual 2-ounce shot, or a 4-ounce double shot.
Convenience (8/10)
Unlike super-automatic espresso machines like the Jura E8 coffee and espresso maker or Espressione Concierge, the EM-1020 requires a little more attention and effort to pull an espresso shot. However, it offers all the convenience options available on many competitive products within its category (semi-automatic espresso maker).
The device has a height-adjustable drip tray that lets you use both small and large cups on the device. In addition, unlike many competitive products, the device features a large removable 1.5 L frontal water tank that can be removed from the front of the machine, eliminating the need to lift or move the unit before refilling.
Like the auto-shutdown feature on competitive products, an Automatic Standby function puts the machine in a low-power mode rather than shutting it down after 30 minutes of idleness.
Additional Features of Espressione EM-1020
The espresso maker is compatible with ESE pods. Its two espresso filers for 1 and 2 cups have a pressurized chamber to increase the crema. In addition, an empty tank detection function with an automatic pump stop keeps the machine from overheating when it runs out of water.
Lastly, the device comes with a tamper, and its cup rest grill shows you precise positioning for the cup to prevent spillage of your drink.
Product Warranty of Espressione EM-1020
EM 1020 has a one-year limited warranty from its manufacturer. However, there is a paid option for a one or two years extension.
Check prices on Amazon
Final Verdict on Espressione EM-1020
Overall, the Espressione EM-1020 espresso maker stands out for its powerful 19-bar pressure, excellent heating system, sturdy construction, and most importantly, its ability to consistently deliver delicious espresso shots along with steam milk.
Espressione EM-1020 is simple to use, built to last, and performs better than competitive products within its price. As a result, it is a great option for small to medium homes where there isn’t a need for large volumes of drinks requiring heating and steaming at the same time.
Whether or not you decide to buy the machine, the blog is worth a read because it gives us a good deal of information. A great coffee is just one thing in the morning that is out of your way and this machine can be your saviour for that.
