Which professional coffee machine to choose for business

Leading brands on the Russian market

In general, the coffee equipment market in the HoReCa sector is focused on espresso. Accordingly, the most popular in coffee shops are single- and double-group espresso machines, which are famous for their reliability, relative affordability and wide selection. They are represented mainly by Italian manufacturers, since Italy is the birthplace of espresso. Among the leaders are La Cimbali, whose coffee machines can withstand up to 20 years of intensive work, as well as CMA Astoria with an assortment of 25,000 units and the technically advanced Nuova Simonelli with its luxury sub-brand Victoria Arduino.

How to choose the best professional coffee machine

When choosing a coffee machine, it is extremely important to consider in which establishment you plan to use it.

For a coffee shop

When choosing a coffee machine for a coffee shop, preference is given to automatic or super-automatic devices , which are designed for a large flow of people. Devices must be of high quality. The cleaning control function is extremely important here.

Among the main criteria that are taken into account when purchasing, the following are worth highlighting:

• the presence of attachments that allow you to prepare various espresso-based drinks;
• the ability to connect the unit to a water supply;
• customizable coffee brewing process;
• counter for the number of prepared portions.

For mobile coffee shops where people take their coffee with them, an espresso machine is considered the best option.

Important functions include the presence of a coffee grinder and the ability to froth milk.

For a restaurant

For restaurants, semi-automatic professional coffee machines are considered the best option. It is recommended to give preference to carob options, which involve cleaning and filling the reservoir with water manually .

For cafe

For such establishments, you should choose a coffee machine that can prepare a variety of drinks, including cocktails and hot chocolate. It is advisable to have a non-resettable counter designed to control the number of portions sold.

Semi-automatic devices with manual dosing of portions are suitable for cafes . The standard option is considered to be a horn device equipped with additional functions.

For the bar

When choosing a device for a bar, preference is given to models that are easy to use and maintain. The standard option is capsule devices. For large establishments, carob-type coffee machines are suitable.

Choosing a coffee machine for a coffee shop

Establishments of this format require professional equipment with a high resource and extended service. It comes in several varieties.

Super automatic

It is better to install coffee machines where there is a lot of traffic and you need to prepare a lot of a fairly high-quality drink - in fast foods, station cafes, shopping centers, hotels, gas stations. The barista's control over the process is minimal; all stages are controlled electronically. However, this equipment is expensive; when working with it, it is very important to strictly follow the instructions, perform daily maintenance and interact with the customer service.

Semi-automatic

It is recommended to install in coffee shops where coffee is the anchor product. The barista is involved in the cooking process at all stages, so it is important to invest additional money in training specialists. Due to the simplicity of the device, units of this type are cheaper and more durable than automatic ones.

Carob

Professional-class coffee makers are the most affordable, but the least automated; in addition, they require the installation of a good burr coffee grinder. Their main difference from household ones is the use of a rotary pump in the design, which provides stable pressure.

Types of coffee machines

Professional coffee machines are divided into several types. The type of device determines how it is used. To choose the most suitable option, you should study the features of all varieties.

By automation

Coffee machines come in the following types:

• automatic. The unit independently grinds the grains, brews the drink and cleans itself. You just need to set the desired program, select the degree of grinding and preferred proportions;
• superautomatic In such devices it is possible to prepare not only espresso and Americano. Superautomatic coffee machines also prepare ristretto, latte, cappuccino, macchiato, and lungo. The devices make it possible to brew two types of coffee beans at once, set the water heating temperature;
• semi-automatic Portions of coffee powder in such devices are poured manually. You also have to clean the device yourself. All other actions are carried out automatically;
• manual. Used exclusively at home. Such devices are not suitable for restaurants and cafes.

By embedding method

They are divided into only two varieties:

• stand-alone;
• built-in

Both options are suitable for coffee establishments. The choice is made taking into account personal preferences and design features of the room.

According to the method of water supply

Water can be supplied to the device in two ways:

• boiler room Steam pressure varies between 3-5 bar. The water is brought to a boil and passed through the crushed beans. Typically, such devices are purchased for takeaway coffee;
• pump action Steam pressure is 15 bar. The liquid in the unit warms up to 105 °C. The steam is then forced through the coffee powder under high pressure. As a result, it is possible to obtain the most aromatic, soft drink. The device is ideal for preparing traditional espresso.

According to the operating principle

Coffee machines differ significantly in their operating principle and, accordingly, in their application. Taking this criterion into account, the following types of devices are distinguished:

• capsule Water is poured into a special compartment, from where it enters the apparatus and is heated using a heating element. The steam then passes through a capsule filled with coffee powder. The grounds settle on the filter, and the finished drink enters the container. The quality of the resulting espresso is quite high. Therefore, such machines are perfect for coffee shops;
• drip. Boiling water passes through the filter with coffee powder drop by drop and enters a separate container. Due to the low preparation speed and relatively low quality of the finished drink, such devices are used exclusively at home;
• geyser At the top of the device there is a compartment intended for crushed beans. Boiled water rises into it from the lower reservoir. Thus, the drink is brewed and goes into a separate flask. As a rule, such devices are small in volume. They can only brew a few cups of coffee at a time. Therefore, they are used in establishments with a small flow of people;
• carob. When the liquid boils, steam is formed, which passes through the coffee powder pressed in the cone. Many coffee machines of this type are equipped with a built-in coffee grinder.

Drip

Geysernaya

Rozhkova

Capsule

Additional functions

The following functions will be useful:

• automatic cleaning mode;
• taste improvement system;
• cappuccino maker;
• making hot chocolate;
• quick steam function.

In addition, coffee machines can be equipped with a coffee powder consumption meter and connected to a cash register system . With such devices, calculating expenses is as simple as possible.

Types of coffee machines

Whatever the quality of the coffee beans, the creation of excellent coffee is largely determined by the availability of professional equipment. Although many people strive to use alternative methods of brewing coffee, the classic method in a coffee machine remains the same for any establishment. All types of this equipment can be divided into the following types:

• Carob;
• Capsule;
• pods;
• Espresso processors;
• Automatic.

Carob equipment is often presented in the form of coffee makers. Tamping ground coffee into carobs is a real art. Too compressed raw materials will make the drink bitter and oily. When compaction is not done tightly enough, the resulting product will be liquid and tasteless.

Pod coffee machines are one of the types of carob-type devices. The only difference is the design of the horn. The drink produced in this equipment is rich, aromatic, and strong. Oxygen-bleached cellulose is used as the paper element in this product.

Capsule equipment has become widespread due to its affordable cost and the ability to select capsules with different varieties and flavors of coffee. These products can be used at home or in the office.

Espresso combines are a semi-automatic unit that combines the carob-type principle and a built-in coffee grinder. Such equipment is often used in restaurants, bars, coffee establishments with average traffic levels or at home. To prepare the drink, you can use grain or ground raw materials. After each preparation of the drink, you must thoroughly rinse the holder. Automatic equipment performs all required functions independently. To start, you just need to add water, add coffee beans and press the appropriate button.

The best professional drip models

Bravior Bonamat Novo 2

Country of origin: the Netherlands.
The average cost is 24,500 rubles. The model is intended for use in catering establishments and offices. It is equipped with two heating platforms, which operate on the principle of self-regulation based on a manually set temperature. Bravior Bonamat Novo 2 has a metal body. Pouring water into the boiler is manual. Main characteristics:

• Productivity – 18 l/hour.
• Power consumption – 2115 W.
• The voltage required for operation is 220 V.
• The brewing time for a portion of coffee is 5 minutes.
• Dimensions – 214x391x424 mm.
• Weight – 4.83 kg.

The model kit includes: a plastic filter holder and a heat-resistant glass carafe.

Advantages:

• the ability to maintain the temperature of the finished drink;
• ease of maintenance;
• reliability of the design.

Disadvantages include the lack of an anti-drip system. The manufacturer gives the Bravior Bonamat Novo 2 a 6-month warranty.

Reviews

KitchenAid 5KCM0802

Country of origin: China. The average cost is 21,500 rubles. The model uses the pour-over coffee brewing method. Its essence is to pass water with a temperature of 92-96°C through a filter with ground coffee for several minutes. Unlike a conventional drip coffee maker, this method of preparing a drink significantly increases the productivity of the device.

KitchenAid 5KCM0802 has a body made of ABC plastic and a reusable filter.

Main characteristics:

• Power consumption – 1200 W.
• The voltage required for operation is 220 V.
• The brewing time for a portion of coffee is 5 minutes.
• Dimensions – 383.5x221x287 mm.
• Weight – 3.2 kg.

The strength of the drink is adjusted by increasing or decreasing the dosage of raw materials.

Advantages:

• the presence of a status indicator and a heating platform for the jug with the finished drink;
• simplicity of design.

The disadvantages include manual adjustment of the drink strength. The manufacturer's warranty period is 24 months.

Reviews

De`Longhi ICMI 211 Distinta

Country of origin: China. Average cost 9500 rub. The model is intended for small bars and home use. 10 servings of drink are prepared at the same time. The design of the device is made in retro style. The design has a heating plate installed in a stand. It can maintain the temperature of hot coffee for 40 minutes. Filter – mesh, reusable.

Main characteristics:

• Power consumption – 1000 W.
• The voltage required for operation is 220 V.
• The brewing time for a portion of coffee is 5 minutes.
• Dimensions – 180x340x280 mm.
• Weight – 2.7 kg.

Ground coffee is used as a raw material for De`Lonqhi ICMI 211 Distinta. Manufacturer's warranty – 24 months.

Advantages:

• auto shutdown;
• presence of water indicator.

The disadvantage is manual adjustment of the drink strength.

Reviews

Coffee machine service

Repairing a coffee machine and replacing spare parts is an expensive procedure. To avoid this, maintain the machine in accordance with the operating instructions:

1. Clean the device regularly using special tablets.
2. Empty the waste container regularly.
3. Do not use old dark roast beans.
4. Lubricate removable chargers with silicone grease.
5. Use filtered or bottled water.
6. Follow the maintenance rules according to the instructions.

Attention! To service expensive units, it is advisable to conclude a periodic maintenance agreement with a service center.

With proper maintenance, your coffee machine will serve for many years.

Best Capsule Options

De`Longhi Nespresso Lattissima Touch Animation

Country of origin: Italy. The average cost is 15.5 thousand rubles. Compact model with stylish design. The design is equipped with automatic cleaning of the cappuccino maker. It has 2 containers: for waste for 11 capsules and for milk. Control is touch.

Main technical characteristics:

• Power consumption – 1.4 kW.
• The voltage required for operation is 220 V.
• Dimensions – 170x250x320 mm.
• Weight – 4.5 kg.

Advantages:

• presence of a readiness indicator;
• auto shutdown;
• stylish design;
• compactness;
• reliability.

Disadvantage: passive heating of cups.

Reviews

Kenwood ES 020

Country of origin: China. The average cost is 9000 rubles. Semi-automatic model. Equipped with a removable tray for collecting drops. The case is made of stainless steel.

Main technical characteristics:

• Power consumption – 1.1 kW.
• The voltage required for operation is 220 V.
• Dimensions – 185x365x285 mm.
• Weight – 5.12 kg

The manufacturer's warranty period is 12 months.

Advantages:

• compactness;
• ease of maintenance;
• highly efficient pump;
• silent operation.

Disadvantage: little space for cups.

Reviews

Bosch TAS 3202/3203/3204/3205 SUNY

Country of origin: China. The average cost is 4000 rubles. The model is suitable for use in small cafes. The machine can prepare: latte, macitao, hot chocolate, classic espresso, as well as several types of tea. The cooking mode is selected automatically. The machine reads the barcode from the capsule packaging. The strength of the drink can be changed using manual settings.

Main technical characteristics:

• Power consumption – 1.3 kW.
• The voltage required for operation is 220 V.
• Weight – 2.1 kg.

The manufacturer's warranty period is 12 months.

Advantages:

• ease of operation;
• presence of a self-cleaning system;
• low cost.

The disadvantage is the inability to cook more than 1 cup at a time.

Reviews

Differences between automatic and carob coffee machines

When choosing a professional coffee machine, you need to focus on the format of the establishment.

When choosing a coffee machine for arranging a bistro, cafe or restaurant, it is important to take into account the number of cups required by visitors at the same time during rush hour. It is necessary to take into account the average “attendance” so that all or at least the majority of customers can get their portion without a significant loss of time

For a small cafe or bistro where coffee is not the main product, the optimal solution would be to purchase an automatic coffee machine.

In bars, restaurants and coffee shops, customers are much more demanding about the quality of their favorite drinks, so a reputable establishment will need a professional carob coffee machine.

Horn professional equipment

Carob models can operate in semi-automatic and manual espresso preparation modes. Any other drinks based on espresso are already prepared exclusively manually.

The speed of preparing coffee drinks, which can be increased through the use of coffee machines, does not in any way affect the quality. Visitors will enjoy both the taste and the divine aroma

Some carob models are equipped with built-in coffee grinders, but they are very imperfect; it is better to have a professional high-quality model with millstones and grind adjustment nearby.

Only a professional barista can prepare a fragrant drink that is balanced in all qualities. In its absence, you will not be able to feel any advantages over automatic models.

Professional carob machines differ from super-automatic ones in that their advantages can only be revealed with the participation of a qualified barista.

The main criterion for choosing such a model is productivity, determined by the number of posts. For a very small establishment, you can limit yourself to a one-group model, but it is better to give preference to a two-group model. The latest models are distinguished by the presence of a second holder, equipped not with a single, but with a double watering can.

In a catering establishment with a heavy flow of visitors, it is better to use a device with two groups for brewing coffee. This way you can increase the speed of service

The following factors deserve special attention:

• The housing must be made of heat-resistant metal alloys . This will ensure the preservation of an attractive appearance even under high operating loads.
• Holders must ensure heat retention . For production, it is allowed to use only metals, since contact with even the highest quality plastic will negatively affect the quality of the espresso.
• The presence of a temperature and pressure sensor prevents the possibility of burnout.
• A large volume boiler (at least 4 liters) prevents a drop in temperature, which is often observed during active preparation of drinks.
• The presence of a cup heating function is mandatory, since espresso quickly loses its taste in a cold cup.
• Stationarity and autonomy . Connecting to a water supply helps solve a number of issues. We must not forget about the progressive water purification system, since its quality significantly affects the taste characteristics of the drink.

For heavy traffic, there is the option of purchasing three- and four-stage coffee machines, but it is better to give preference to installing two two-stage coffee machines.

Automatic coffee machines

Automatic models are equipped with a built-in coffee grinder with adjustable grain grinding. A built-in press with a dispenser is responsible for preparing the drink. The principle of operation is simple, it does not require any special or professional skills. You just need to press a button to get the finished drink without any problems.

With the help of super-automatic professional coffee machines, you can significantly expand the range of coffee and coffee-milk drinks. Basic care and maintenance consists only of timely cleaning of containers and replenishment of tanks.

Advanced functionality makes it possible to influence the quality of the drink to a certain extent, but it is impossible to get a truly ideal one in all respects. Therefore, such models are suitable for small bistros or eateries.

Modern automatic coffee machines have a wide range of functionality and a range of prepared drinks. They are not designed for gourmets, so the basic requirements for them are slightly different:

• Productivity . Depends on the number of groups, even the simplest models can prepare 100-150 cups of espresso in an hour. And two-group super-automatic models – up to 250.
• Simple intuitive interface . With a large flow of customers, there is no time to think about recipes.
• Large hopper for coffee beans . Helps minimize interference with work.
• Connection to water supply or volumetric boiler . They also have a significant impact on work autonomy.
• Password protection against factory reset . Eliminates the possibility of fraud on the part of staff.

Well, another important point is vandal resistance. Automatic coffee machines are often handled by ordinary salespeople or random people, so the body material must be durable and reliable.

The best professional horn-type devices

Nuova Simonelli Appia II

Country of origin: Italy. The average cost is 155 thousand rubles. The model is intended for commercial purposes. The machine has high productivity, which allows you to recoup the costs of its purchase in a short period of time. The machine can be connected to a water supply. The case is made of stainless steel.

The machine has a stylish design, a convenient backlit control panel and a mirror that allows you to monitor the extraction. The hot water supply is controlled electronically. You can prepare two cups of the same type of coffee at the same time. The package includes 3 horns.

Main technical characteristics

• Power consumption – 3.2 kW.
• The voltage required for operation is 220 V.
• Dimensions – 780x545x530 mm.
• Weight – 60 kg.

Advantages:

• multifunctionality;
• high performance;
• reliability and ease of maintenance.

Flaws:

• large dimensions;
• high price.

Manufacturer's warranty – 24 months.

Reviews

Expobar OFFICE PULSER 1GR

Country of origin: Sweden.
The average cost is 69 thousand rubles. The model is suitable for use in offices and coffee shops with average traffic. The main purpose of a professional semi-automatic machine is to prepare espresso. The design is equipped with a temperature sensor, has one brewing group and a platform for heating the finished drink. You can prepare 2 servings of the same type of coffee at the same time. Main technical characteristics:

• Power consumption – 2.1 kW.
• The voltage required for operation is 220 V.
• Dimensions – 250x410x425 mm.
• Weight – 17 kg.

The model has a built-in steam tap for frothing milk. This allows you to prepare lattes and cappuccinos on it.

Advantages:

• presence of a cappuccino maker;
• height-adjustable legs;
• reliability and ease of maintenance.

Disadvantage: after inactivity, problems with water supply may arise.

The manufacturer's warranty period is 12 months.

Reviews

Lelit PL42EM Cafeferia

Country of origin: Italy. The average cost is 48 thousand rubles. The model is equipped with a built-in coffee grinder with adjustable grinding degree. To prepare the drink, you can use grain and ground coffee, pods. The case is made of stainless steel. It rests on rubberized feet that prevent the machine from slipping on a smooth surface. The horn is made of metal.

Main technical characteristics:

• Power consumption – 1.2 kW.
• The voltage required for operation is 220 V.
• Dimensions – 330x250x370 mm.
• Weight – 12 kg.

The device can prepare 2 cups of drink at the same time. Manufacturer's warranty – 12 months.

Advantages:

• multifunctionality;
• the presence of a platform for heating the finished drink;
• reliability;
• ease of maintenance.

The disadvantages include the need to purchase accessories in addition to the car.

Reviews

The best inexpensive models of professional coffee machines (up to 30,000 rubles)

For a small establishment, it is better to buy an inexpensive coffee machine to quickly recoup your investment.

De'Longhi ECAM 350.15.B Dinamica

pros

• Convenient control
• Quiet operation
• Compact dimensions

Minuses

• Small water tank
• Large water consumption for cleaning the housing

From 26533 ₽

The device is equipped with touch controls, through which the user can select preset drink recipes - long, expresso, hot water for tea. In addition, you can adjust the temperature or strength. A high-quality model of coffee machine with a cappuccino maker that allows you to create lush foam. The volume of the water tank is 1.8 l.

Philips HD8827 3000 Series

pros

• Easily whips up milk foam
• Takes up little space

Minuses

• Loud noise during operation
• The plastic on the front panel gets scratched quickly

From 21075 ₽

This automatic coffee machine has a wide range of useful functions that allow you to prepare aromatic and tasty drinks. The undoubted advantage of the model is the ceramic millstones, which provide an impressive service life and quiet operation. An additional advantage is several preset recipes. Now the user only needs to press a single button to prepare the selected type of coffee. Tank volume – 1.8 l.

Kambrook ACM500

pros

• Minimalist design
• Easy to use
• The result is delicious coffee

Minuses

• There is no platform for warming cups
• No coffee temperature adjustment

From 19180 ₽

A powerful electronically controlled machine will allow you to prepare a delicious drink in a few seconds. The device has useful functionality. Pre-wetting is present, revealing the finest shades of taste. There is a separate program for cold coffee lovers. The maximum pressure is 19 bar, the volume of the water tank is 1.2 liters.