Automatic Espresso Machines

• Automatic espresso machines are sometimes called fully automatic. In an automatic machine, once the espresso is extracted, the machine will automatically turn off the pump for you. With this machine, you press a button to make the espresso shot. When the required amount of water has flown through the machine to make your espresso, the pump is automatically turned off and the pressure is released.
  
  

Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines

• In a semi-automatic espresso machine, you make the beverage in much the same way as an automatic. The only real difference is that after you deliver the hot water and make your espresso shot, you must manually turn the water pump off. This offers a little more control over your espresso.
  
  

Difference in function

• The only real advantage an automatic machine has over a semi-automatic is time. With the automatic, you don't have to wait 20 to 25 seconds to manually turn off the pump. The good news is that most automatic machines can actually be used in semi-automatic mode. This will give you a little more control over your espresso shot, and you get the best of both machines.
  
  

Subclasses

• There are three main subclasses among automatic and semi-automatic espresso machines that you should consider before purchase. Single-boiler, dual-use machines have one boiler and two or more thermostats. One thermostat controls water temperature and the other is set higher for steam. You can flip a switch between the two thermostats, but you cannot brew espresso and steam at the same time. Single-boiler, heat-exchanger machines maintain water temperature around 240F or higher. With these machines, you can brew espresso and steam simultaneously. Dual-boiler machines have two independent boilers, one to maintain water temperature and one that maintains steaming temperature. These allow you to brew and steam at the same time as well.
  
  

Difference in price

• Automatic and semi-automatic espresso machines do not generally vary in pricing because of the automatic pump shut-off feature. Instead, the price difference is found in the subclasses. The single-boiler, dual-use machines are the most common machine under $1,000, while the single-boiler, heat-exchanger machines are typically over $1,000. The dual-boiler machines are quite expensive, usually priced around $2,000 or higher.