Semi automatic vs. fully automatic espresso machine: how to choose

Would I love a fully automatic espresso machine?

Fully automatics (aka ‘super automatic espresso machines’) make espresso-based drinks a breeze, by taking care of every step. At the push of a button, you can select what you fancy, and have it dispensed right into your cup. Like having your own barista, it means you can avoid the queues at the coffee shop and sip in comfort. From Cappuccino to Americano, you call the shots. Just tap in your craving and voilà.

What does fully automatic mean?

Fully automatic means that it automates every part of the espresso process, from the grind to the tamp and temperature, aerating the milk and producing the ideal texture of foam. You’ll be guided through the recipe options on a display and after a few taps, the machine will do its thing.

Advantages of a fully automatic espresso machine

Go fully auto to tick all these boxes:

• Enjoy iconic drinks in moments

• Made at the touch of a button

• Consistent results every time

• Perfect milky drinks made too

• Save your preferences for next time

People who would suit a fully auto

Fans of drinks like Cappuccino and Lungo who don’t want to prepare them will jump at the chance to have a fully auto espresso machine. If your family or house mates are particular about coffee, they can even create profiles and customise favourites by strength, temperature and more. Everyone’s happy.

Fully automatic options – find your match

KitchenAid’s fully automatic machines come in three models, depending on your wish list. While the KF6 serves classic espresso-based drinks, higher models have even more on the menu, for those Macchiato moments. The ultimate KF8 fully automatic espresso machine offers a unique plant-based mode, so you can make non-dairy alternatives with a gorgeously rich texture. Whichever you go for, there are stylish colours like Juniper, and Quiet Mark certification across the range means the machine keeps noise to a minimum while it grinds, so coffee break will be nice and peaceful.

Would I love a semi automatic espresso machine?

A semi-automatic espresso machine is the icon of the coffee house. Coffee beans are ground and dispensed into the portafilter ready to be extracted in an intense shot. The steam wand magics up microfoam in the stainless steel jug, and is purged with a clean cloth. It takes a little practice to perfect your espresso game and texture the milk with the cool confidence of a barista. But it’s an exploration that you’ll enjoy and that soon becomes second nature.

What does semi automatic mean?

Semi automatic means that the machine automates some aspects of the brewing process, like the temperature and the pressure, while leaving you to create the espresso by hand. You can savour the ritual of conjuring up that shot, and texturising the milk to pour lavishly over the top.

Is a manual espresso machine different?

While a semi-automatic is considered a ‘manual machine’ by some, there is such a thing as a fully manual espresso maker. The process of extracting espresso from coffee can be done by hand with a lever-operated machine. These hand-pumped espresso machines take patience and skill to master. You’ll need to heat the water first and grind the beans, so you can force the water through the grounds to create your shot.

Advantages of a semi automatic espresso machine

Go semi auto to tick all these boxes:

• Be hands on, from tamping to foaming

• Enjoy all the sensations of espresso making

• Fine-tune to get the flavour from the beans

• Make your own latte art!

People who would suit a semi auto

If you’ve had the urge to leap over the coffee house counter and have a go at pulling a shot yourself, then you’re ready for a semi automatic espresso machine with burr grinder. It’s your chance to master the art of espresso and make it a highlight of your day. From selecting the fineness of the grind to doing a satisfyingly even tamp, you’ll soon be wowing your friends with your effortless skills.

What recipes can I make with an espresso machine?

Take an Espresso; a beautiful, intense shot. Based on that, you can make all kinds of recipes, from Americana to Lungo and Cortado. It doesn’t matter whether you opt for a Fully automatic or a Semi automatic machine, the results can be the same. Your Fully automatic will serve up whichever treat you fancy at the press of a button, from Ristretto to Macchiato. Armed with a Semi auto, you can make it yourself: dispense water for an Americano, or use the steam wand to texturise milk for foamy delights like Cappuccino. Even add chocolate, ice cream or more for any coffee creation. Explore 19 espresso-based recipes you can do with your preferred espresso machines.

Fully or semi automatic espresso machines – which is right for you?

Whatever your relationship with coffee, you’ll find a home espresso machine to suit you. Explore in your own way with KitchenAid, bringing all the aromas and joys of the coffee house to your kitchen. While the fully automatic espresso machines KF6, KF7 and KF8 put your favourite drinks at your fingertips, the semi automatic machine with burr grinder lets you roll up your sleeves for the full barista vibe.

Still unsure? Try the ‘Help me choose’ tool to tap in what matters most… and your perfect partner will be revealed!