TABLE OF CONTENTS
If you’re interested in crafting high-quality espresso drinks – whether it’s for customers or yourself – then you’ve probably researched commercial espresso machines.
At glance, there are a ton of options, making the decision difficult. You can lose yourself easily in technical terminology and make the wrong investment for your business.
So if you’re looking for the best commercial espresso machine that’s perfect for you, but don’t know where to begin, then you’ve come to the right place. We'll talk about buying, selling, renting, or financing a commercial espresso machine to ensure you know what your best options are.
In this guide, we’ll go over these topics to help you make the best decision:
- Common options you’ll run into for espresso equipment and what they mean
- What to consider as you look for a product that fits your specific needs
- Which machines are best for homes, offices, restaurants, or coffee shops
- Our hand-picked options for the best commercial espresso machines and their features
COMMERCIAL ESPRESSO MACHINE BRANDS AND MANUFACTURERS
There are some companies that are best known for creating commercial espresso machines. Sometimes, choosing a product is as simple as knowing which brands you can trust to help you narrow down your search.
Trending: How to Choose a Commercial Espresso Machine for Your Business
If you're wondering which brands you can look to, here is a list of some common commercial espresso and coffee machine manufacturers (that we recommend and sell):
There are also other brands that make coffee machines capable of producing espresso. However, rather than making espresso from freshly ground coffee beans and relying on you to brew with them, these machines often use coffee pods.
These machines are oftentimes an excellent choice for establishments where employees won't really be focused on making espresso, such as in offices or hotels. Here are some other common manufacturers that we don't currently sell:
- Illy
- Keurig
- Lavazza
- Nescafe
- Nespresso
UNDERSTANDING THE TYPES OF COMMERCIAL ESPRESSO MACHINES
As you search, you’ll typically run into four types of product varieties:
- Manual/Lever Espresso Machines
- Semiautomatic Espresso Machines
- Automatic/Volumetric Espresso Machines
- Super-automatic Espresso Machines/Bean to Cup Machines
In a nutshell, manual espresso machines have the steepest learning curve, and then the learning curve gets progressively easier as you go down the list.
Here’s how they each work:
MANUAL/LEVER ESPRESSO MACHINES
Out of all your options, these product options are the most difficult to master.
Manual espresso machines use a lever mechanism that the barista pulls down, using their own strength to control espresso extraction.
The lever mechanism works usually with a spring piston that’s set off by barista when they pull it. It then pushes water through the espresso puck. Different levels of pressure applied by the barista can impact every shot of espresso.
As you can imagine, this means that’s there more room for error with this type of equipment.
At the same time, however, a highly skilled professional using a manual espresso machine can feel like they are creating a work of art, as each shot is essentially hand-crafted. This is a time-honored and classic way of drink making.
The flip side is that relying on individual users to create drinks means there may be variations in quality. If you want to maintain a constant level of quality or train employees quickly, then a manual espresso machine may not be the best choice for you.
Here are the reasons why you would consider a manual espresso machine:
- Perfect for niche or specialized coffee shops trying to achieve an artistic or vintage aesthetic
- Allows experienced baristas the maximum level of control over drinks
- A good choice for at-home aficionados who don’t need to make a large number of drinks daily
These are reasons why you may not want one:
- Drink quality is variable depending on the skill level of the user
- Not as fast as other espresso machines
- Takes more time to learn
If those concerns match yours, then a manual espresso machine is likely not a good choice for you.
Read Also: Best Manual Commercial Espresso Machines
SEMI-AUTOMATIC ESPRESSO MACHINES
Like the name suggests, semiautomatic espresso machines are a happy medium between manual and fully automatic machines.
Baristas don’t need to pull a lever to operate them, and instead use automatic pump mechanisms that are controlled by buttons on their display.
By pushing the right button, the user begins the espresso extraction process, and the pump is stopped when the barista chooses – which is how part of the aspects of a manual espresso machine come in.
This ability for baristas to choose when the pump stops has led to semiautomatic machines sometimes being called manual espresso machines. Compared with automatic or super-automatic machines, they are basically manual – especially since truly manual espresso machines are not as common anymore.
Here are the reasons you might consider a semiautomatic espresso machine:
- Baristas have some control over the espresso extraction process
- Being semiautomatic helps ensure more consistency in the espresso
- Users don’t have to physically exert themselves by pulling levers
Here are the reasons you may not want to choose a such a product:
- It can take longer to train new employees the necessary skills to use it properly
- May not be fast enough to meet the demands for busier businesses
Keep in mind that even though semiautomatic machines allow some room for barista control, their quality of being partially automatic does mean espresso extraction is less variable. They do still take time to learn, though.
Read Also: Best Semi Automatic Espresso Machines
AUTOMATIC OR VOLUMETRIC ESPRESSO MACHINES
If you have frequent rushes of customers, an automatic or volumetric espresso machine can make going through the lines simple.
The espresso extraction process in an automatic espresso machine is, like their name, fully automated. Once it’s started, the machine will handle dosing the right amount of water for the espresso using settings programmed by the manufacturer or sometimes by baristas.
Since the quality of the espresso extraction isn’t dependent on users fallible to human error, each drink will be consistent for customers time after time.
Automatic espresso machines have the added benefit of being much easier to train new employees on. For your more experienced baristas, some automatic machines even have manual buttons that allow them to switch to an analog system for greater control.
Here’s why you’d want to choose an automatic espresso machine:
- Consistent standard in drinks no matter who makes them
- User-friendly for both new and experienced baristas alike
- One of the fastest options on this list, freeing baristas to work on other tasks while making drinks
Of course, there are some drawbacks to automatic machines, too:
- Fewer options for baristas to control water volume
- Tendency to be more expensive initially than semiautomatic machines
As with any of the other kinds of machines in this guide, you’ll need to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks. Many businesses find the advantages are greater than the disadvantages when it comes to automatic espresso machines.
See Our Collection: Volumetric / Automatic Espresso Machines for Sale
SUPER AUTOMATIC ESPRESSO MACHINES/BEAN TO CUP ESPRESSO MACHINES
If an automatic espresso machine fully automates the espresso extraction process, a super-automatic espresso machine truly goes the extra mile. These machines are also often called bean-to-cup machines.
Rather than just automating espresso extraction, every aspect of drink creation, from grinding to milk frothing, is handled by the machine.
Super-automatic machines are divided into two categories: one- and two-step machines.
A one-step machine takes care of any drink for you right from the start, freshly grinding the espresso, dosing the water, and pouring the milk all with the push of a single button.
Its counterpart, the two-step machine, does most of the same work, but you do need to have a milk pitcher filled separately for it to froth, whereas the one-step machine can pour the milk for you.
Both the one-step and two-step machines have a lot of steaming options the user can choose from to add customization to any drink for that personal touch.
Predictably, there are many reasons you’d want to choose a super-automatic machine:
- New users can be trained in literally minutes
- A consistent level of quality can be expected in each drink
- Drinks can be prepared much more quickly
- Employees are freed for other tasks, such as customer service, while the machine handles the rest
- Built-in grinders prevent you from needing to make expenditures on a separate grinder
Here’s the main reason you may choose not to go with a super-automatic machine:
- A greater initial investment than other machines in this guide
You might have thought that there would also be less flexibility for on-the-fly customization, but that’s not a problem with super-automatic machines. There are many models that come with a large number of programmable settings, opening up an extensive array of beverages for you to prepare.
Price can be a concern with super-automatic espresso machines. When you’re considering one for your own business, remember: if you have a high volume or customers or need to train new baristas often, it could pay for itself in time.
See Our Collection: Super Automatic Espresso Machines for Sale
See Our Guide: Best Superautomatic Espresso Machines
Espresso Machine Features and What They Mean
You're going to come across a variety of terms when you're shopping for an espresso machine. We're going to define some of those terms here to make sure you know what the terms mean.
FROTHER
Part of what makes an espresso machine, an espresso machine is its attached milk frother. Milk-based drinks (including things such as lattes or macchiatos) are among the most popular drinks on the menu at a coffee shop.
How do you make those drinks? By heating and steaming milk, both to mix into the espresso and to top it off with milk foam.
This is what a frother does. A frother is a wand attached to the side of the machine that hot water flows through. Pressure generated from this hot water textures your milk without watering it down.
Read Also: Best Espresso Machines with Milk Steamers
STEAM VALVE
You turn the milk frother off and on generally through a steam valve located at the base of the wand. The design for the steam valve varies depending on the machine.
Traditionally, it's a simple valve with a wheel you turn from side to side. Some ergonomic espresso machines have done away with this design, since it can sometimes cause baristas to get sore wrists. Instead, these machines will use a steam switch or trigger that you can push back and forth to turn the steam on and off.
WATER TANK/RESERVOIR
If you don't have water, you don't have espresso. It's as simple as that. This is why all espresso machines have some way of supplying water to themselves for the brewing and steaming processes.
Most espresso machines will have an integrated water tank or reservoir. The way this reservoir is filled can vary depending on the type of machine you have.
Plumbed-in machines refill themselves automatically through their water line connections. Pour-over machines must have water added to them manually as they empty.
WATER FILTER
Water filters can be installed in your espresso machine to reduce scale buildup and prevent minerals in your water from affecting the flavor of drinks. This is especially important when you're using a pour-over machine, although we would recommend a water filter for most espresso machines.
Filters are an easy way to boost the longevity of your machine. It's not a bad investment, considering how important the machine likely is in your home or business.
TOUCH SCREEN
You're probably already familiar with what a touch screen is, since most people have a smart phone these days. Touch screens are famous for their user-friendliness and for their clean look.
What you might not have known is that some high-end espresso machines can be controlled through touch screen panels, as well. These popular design elements are particularly common on superautomatic and bean-to-cup models.
However, you may also find touch screens occasionally on either automatic or semiautomatic machines, too. We don't think it's a deal-breaking feature if they don't have one, but this may be important for you if you're going for a certain look or simply want a machine that feels easier to operate.
We've compiled an easy list of the best espresso machines with touch screens for you to take a look at if this is a feature you're interested in.
GRINDER
A grinder is used to crush coffee beans into grounds that can then be brewed with. Typically, grinders are standalone appliances that you purchase alongside your espresso machine.
In some situations, though, an espresso machine may have a grinder built right into it. You'll see this most often with superautomatic espresso machines - they're not called bean to cup for no reason! These machines truly are designed to take care of it all for you, from grinding your beans to foaming milk.
See Also: Best Commercial Espresso Machines with Built In Grinders
HOPPER
Where there's a grinder, there's usually a hopper. Hoppers are compartments that hold whole coffee beans in them, usually before dispensing them into a grinder to be pulverized.
If your espresso machine has an integrated grinder, it probably has a hopper. Be sure to pay attention to the size of the hopper in this case, and potentially even the number of hoppers. Some superautomatic espresso machines may have multiple hoppers so you can store different blends of coffee in the machine.
COMMON ACCESSORIES
If all you purchased was an espresso machine, you still wouldn't have enough to whip up delicious cappuccinos or lattes. There are a number of accessories that go with each espresso machine to guarantee smooth operation and drink creation.
PORTAFILTER
Easily one of the most important accessories is your portafilter. There are different types of portafilters for different needs, including bottomless, pressurized, and non-pressurized portafilters.
TAMPER
A tamper is another accessory worth your consideration. Many commercial espresso machines will already come with a tamper, but if yours doesn't, you'll need to purchase one. Tampers help guarantee that your espresso will be evenly extracted by allowing you to pack your grounds carefully into your portafilter.
MILK PITCHERS AND THERMOMETERS
Milk pitchers and thermometers are other accessories you may want to have nearby. Like with tampers, some commercial espresso machines include a milk pitcher, but this isn't a guarantee. If yours does not come with one, you'll want to purchase one separately so you can safely froth milk.
A thermometer, on the other hand, is simply a nice touch. It helps you monitor the temperature of your milk as you steam or froth, so you know exactly when your milk is at the ideal temperature range.
GROUP HEADS
Your espresso machine's output capacity will be directly impacted by its number of group heads. The group head is, in a nutshell, what the brewed espresso comes out of.
This is why commercial espresso machines come in a range of group head configurations. There are one-group, two-group, three-group, and even four-group espresso machines.
Small coffee shops may be able to make do with one-group machines. We'd also recommend this style for most home users or prosumers. This type of machine is often smaller and more affordable than those with more groups.
We recommend two-group machines for medium businesses, including coffee shops or restaurants. As you get into the territory of larger establishments with a high volume of drink orders, you may find you need three or four groups.
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IMPORTANT PARTS AND TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS
VOLTAGE/ELECTRICITY REQUIREMENTS
Like any other appliance in your kitchen, an espresso machine needs electricity to work. This means you'll want to consider the voltage and electricity requirements for each machine so you know where you can plug it in.
There are a range of common electricity and voltage requirements. Some typical voltages include 110 or 220v, for example. You may also see measurements in amps, such as 10-amp or 20-amp.
BOILERS
The boiler is one of the espresso machine's most crucial components. It helps warm water and generate pressure for brewing and steaming.
At a commercial level, espresso machine boilers usually come in one of two configurations: heat exchange or dual.
A heat exchange boiler is a single-boiler design that has a special tube running through it which carries water to the group heads. Water outside of the tube is used for steaming, which helps keep both types of water isolated from each other and at the appropriate temperatures.
In a dual-boiler espresso machine, there are two boilers. Each has its own function, which is either steaming or brewing. This is a particularly powerful boiler design, but it can also sometimes lead to the espresso machine in question being higher in price.
Looking for a dual boiler espresso machine? Take a look at our guide to the best dual boiler commercial espresso machines.
ROTARY PUMPS AND VIBRATORY PUMPS
Your espresso machine's pump is another key component in its daily function. The pump pushes water through the machine, also leading to pressure generation. There are two types of pumps common to most espresso machines:
- Rotary Pumps
- Vibratory Pumps
Rotary pumps are excellent in terms of longevity and noise level. These sturdy pumps are known for their long lifespans and their quiet volume. If you're concerned about your espresso machine being too loud, one of the things you can look for is if it has a rotary pump.
Vibratory pumps are powerful, but tend to be a little bit louder than rotary pumps. The benefit to them, however, is that they can oftentimes result in an espresso machine being a little more affordable if budget is a concern for you.
DRAINAGE AND DRIP TRAYS
All the water you're not using needs to go somewhere. This is where your machine's drainage and drip tray are going to factor in.
Virtually every espresso machine has a draining tray located beneath the group heads. Whenever you purge your group head or some espresso spills, the drip tray should ideally catch it and siphon the liquid away from your workspace.
The main benefit to this design is that it keeps your area clean. You don't need to worry about messy, time-consuming spills as much.
COMMON APPLICATIONS
Wondering who can use an espresso machine? You might be surprised at the variety of businesses and locations an espresso machine can become a star player in.
The following are a few of the most popular settings for espresso machines...
LARGE AND SMALL COFFEE SHOPS
When you imagine a commercial espresso machine, you probably picture a coffee shop. It's true that this is the typical setting for one.
Both large coffee shops and small coffee shops benefit from having a quality espresso machine on their counters. Commercial-level models help them produce shots of espresso or milk-based drinks quickly for lines of customers.
Some coffee shops may even want to consider having multiple espresso machines on hand to meet higher levels of demand.
FOOD TRUCKS
A food truck or coffee cart could also have an espresso machine. Many customers like to order something to drink along with their food, and espresso is a crowd-pleaser when it comes to drinks.
If you're looking for an espresso machine that can hit the road with you in these types of businesses, what you need is a compact espresso machine. You may also want to think about a pour-over one, since it won't need to be connected to a water line.
You can check out our list of the best espresso machines for food trucks to see some of our top suggestions for this type of business.
CATERERS
In a similar vein, caterers may also want to consider adding a commercial espresso machine to their business. Espresso is perfect for giving anyone attending an event a boost of energy - something that your catering business would be wise to offer.
Check Out: Best Espresso Machines for Catering
OFFICES
Offices are another excellent place for a commercial espresso machine. Busy office workers often need energy to help them get through the day. Offering more than just the standard drip coffee machine may be a fantastic perk for your employees.
Since employees in a typical office setting likely haven't been trained on how to use an espresso machine, user-friendliness is key here. You may want to consider purchasing a superautomatic machine that allows users to make drinks at the push of a button.
If you want the easiest espresso machine for your office, you can take a look at our guide to the best superautomatic espresso machines for office use.
HOTELS AND SPAS
For many, coffee and espresso aren't just a drink you prepare for an energy boost. Countless people view these drinks as a relaxing treat to be enjoyed when they're waking up or winding down for the day.
This is precisely why an espresso machine could be crucial to a hotel or spa. They allow you to offer an amenity to your guests that competitors may not have even considered yet.
Related Guide: Best Espresso Machines for Hotels
BARS
It's safe to say that most people at a bar are there to drink alcohol, but this isn't always the case. Many groups of friends hitting the town do so with someone who's their designated driver, and this person is often neglected at bars.
If you have an espresso machine at the bar, you can prepare a drink for those designated drivers or anyone else not looking for alcohol. It allows you to cater to everyone, making your bar into an inclusive destination all adults can enjoy.
RESTAURANTS
If you can put an espresso machine in a food truck, you can just as easily put one in a restaurant. Plenty of customers in a restaurant want a drink to help them wash down their food, and oftentimes, a simple glass of ice water isn't enough.
By making high-quality espresso drinks for customers, you can give them an additional energy boost. It may even be perfect for selling your dessert menu, since nothing pairs quite as well as a milk-based drink and a pastry.
HOME USERS/PROSUMERS
You technically don't even need to have a business at all to consider purchasing an espresso machine. Espresso lovers who want to save themselves a potentially costly trip to their local coffee shop are increasingly looking at adding an espresso machine to their home. That way, they can prepare their favorite drinks from the comfort of their own kitchens.
Read Also: Best Home Espresso Machines Under $2000
WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING
There’s a lot to think about before you pick the best commercial espresso machine for you.
Now that you understand the types of machines available, you’ll need to think about your own specific requirements.
In order to determine what your requirements are, consider these questions:
- What type of business do you operate?
- What sort of plumbing do you have available for a machine?
- How many espresso drinks to you typically make in a day?
- What sizes drinks does your business offer?
- How much space do you have available for an espresso machine?
WHAT TYPE OF BUSINESS DO YOU OPERATE?
A great starting place is defining your expectations based on your business itself.
Like many other things, business come in all shapes and sizes. It’s natural, then, that the needs of each business will be different across the board.
If you run a specialized coffee shop, have a specific classic aesthetic, or have highly skilled baristas, a manual espresso machine may be a great choice for you. It may also be worth considering if you’re an at-home espresso aficionado looking to craft drinks for yourself in your own kitchen.
A semiautomatic espresso machine is an excellent choice in a lot of commercial backgrounds, especially where baristas want more control over the drinks they’re making but need to be able to make them a little more quickly.
Alternatively, a busier coffee shop with lots of customers or a desire for consistent drink quality might be more interested in an automatic espresso machine.
If you find that your business experiences an especially large amount of customers or needs to hire new employees often, then a super-automatic espresso machine is probably ideal for you.
A super-automatic machine is also an excellent option in situations where users won’t be trained baristas, such as in an office setting.
Generally, your business type and its demands are an easy starting point in your espresso machine considerations. Once you’ve defined your business’s needs, the rest is more practical.
Browsing for a small business or cafe? Check out the best commercial espresso machines for small business.
WHAT SORT OF PLUMBING DO YOU HAVE AVAILABLE?
An espresso machine that can hook up to an existing water line in your business is called a plumbed or direct-connect machine.
This is typically considered the ideal, because it means your employees won’t need to stop whatever they are doing several times a day to refill a water reservoir. Direct-connect espresso machines also usually allow you to use a water softener or filter with them, so that your water quality only enhances the taste of your drinks and prevents damage to the machine from scaling.
The other option is pour-over machines, which have a built-in water reservoir that needs to be refilled when it’s depleted.
The benefit to pour-over machines is that they can be used from anywhere, because they don’t have to be near a water line.
Unlike with direct-connect machines, though, you’ll need to handle descaling yourself and filter water on your own.
If you’re a busy coffee shop, you’re likely going to want a direct-connect espresso machine to ensure your employees can focus on making beverages without having to stop for an empty reservoir.
Related Guide: Best Plumbed Espresso Machines with Water Line Hookup
HOW MANY ESPRESSO DRINKS DO YOU TYPICALLY MAKE PER DAY?
Some machines are going to be faster than others.
This is why it’s important to think about the number of espresso drinks you make on a daily basis.
You’ll need to consider if your machine needs to produce 20 espressos per hour, maybe even 50 or more. You also need to be aware of whether or not the machine you choose will have a necessary cool-down period after a number of drinks. This is uncommon for machines suited to busier coffee shops, but is still important to remember.
The factor that primarily affects how quickly an espresso machine can produce drinks is how many groups it has. More groups means more drinks can be made at once.
Usually, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you’re uncertain at all, look at espresso machines that can make a higher number of drinks than you may estimate, such as machines with more than one group.
Even if you have a machine that’s a little more heavy-duty than you need initially, you may grow into needing to use it for a greater capacity later on as your business expands.
If you’re fairly confident that you don’t need to make an extensive number of espresso drinks, on the other hand, then it may be a better bet for you to look for machine that doesn’t have as many groups. This may be better for restaurants that don’t focus on serving espresso, or offices with a small number of people.
WHAT SIZE DRINKS DOES YOUR BUSINESS OFFER?
Do you offer a wide array of drink sizes, or find yourself making many larger drinks?
If that’s the case, you may also want to look into tall cup espresso machines.
Tall cup espresso machines are different from traditional cup machines because they allow users to fit bigger cups beneath the group head. They have flexible group heads so they can be adjusted when larger cups are necessary.
For a traditional cup machine, baristas may need to transfer espresso to a larger cup by hand if the cup won’t fit underneath the group.
The ability to pour espresso right into a larger cup without having to manually transfer it can save time, which adds up. Although this feature isn’t necessary for everyone, it is worth thinking about in your search for the best commercial espresso machine.
Also See: Want to browse a wide variety of machines? Check out our commercial machines for sale.
HOW MUCH SPACE DO YOU HAVE AVAILABLE FOR AN ESPRESSO MACHINE?
Espresso machines, like businesses, come in all shapes and sizes. There isn't really a "standard" size that you can plan for, which is why it's important to factor in the dimensions and weight of each espresso machine.
Before purchasing an espresso machine, you should determine where you would put it. Once you have a location in mind, get our your tape measure and measure its dimensions. Make note of those dimensions somewhere and compare them with each espresso machine you look at.
This will ensure that you end up purchasing an espresso machine with the correct dimensions for your home or business. You won't need to completely rearrange your space to accommodate it.
Don't worry if your home or business is a little on the cramped side. There are plenty of small commercial espresso machines on the market.
Another thing to consider is the weight of the espresso machine. If you're going to be moving the espresso machine around for maintenance or cleaning, you won't want one that's too heavy for you or your employees to lift.
Related Guide: Best Mini Commercial Espresso Machines
BEST COMMERCIAL ESPRESSO MACHINES TOP PICKS
The Unic Mira is a volumetric espresso machine constructed from stainless steel so it can withstand even the most heavy-duty wear and tear.
Since it comes in one, two, or three group options, it can be the solution for a variety of different businesses, from home coffee lovers to busy coffee shops.
Its programmable keys make it simple for users to decide the perfect amount of water that’s needed for dosing, and since it’s automatic, it’s wonderful for all skill levels.
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Automatic – Simple to learn and master for all skill levels.
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Direct-to-Boiler Mounted Group Heads – With water used right from the boiler, any heat loss is minimal.
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Overabundant Steam Boiler Supply – Waiting for an espresso machine to recover steam in the middle of the rush is a thing of the past, allowing for milk frothing on continuous orders.
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Multiple Infusion Options – Select from a variety of infusion options, including pre-infusion, specific to the time and extraction needed for each drink.
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Direct-Connect – Don’t let a limited reservoir stifle your business; with direct-connect, you won’t need to stop in the middle of a rush to refill a water reservoir.
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Tall Cup Option – Save time with the space to brew right into larger cups.
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SteamAir Option – Ensure your standards are consistently met with a SteamAir option that perfectly froths your milk every time – all you need to do is push a button.
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The Unic Stella Di Caffe was built with features in mind that you might not have considered, so you can amaze your customers with flair.
If you’ve ever been shocked by sipping from a cold mug when you expected something toastier, this machine has got you covered with a large cup warmer. You can keep each cup pleasantly warm for customers, which prevents heat loss in drinks that are poured into cold cups.
As an automatic machine that’s available in two- and three-group configurations, the Unic Stella Di Caffee can help medium or large businesses thrive.
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Automatic – You can expect each drink to be made speedily to cut through those lines.
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Dual Boiler – An innovative dual boiler design means you won’t need to be concerned with steam boiler depletion even during those busy morning rushes.
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Tall Cup Capacity – Avoid the hassle of having to pour espresso by hand when you need to make a larger drink by fitting those tall cups right under the group heads.
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Direct-Connect – This model will fill its reservoir itself and comes with a drip tray that can be fed into a drain for effortless cleaning.
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Central Control LCD Color Touch Screen – Control your machine easily with a beautiful crystal-clear central display.
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Programmable Pre-Infusion – Errors in tamping aren’t an issue here with pre-infusion that gently soaks the espresso grounds before extraction so the water distribution is even.
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Programmable Adjustable Hot Water Outlet – Controlling temperature is simple with programmable buttons for drinks like Americanos or teas.
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Graceful and elegant-looking, the Nuova Simonelli Appia 2 is a highly versatile machine that can meet the expectations of any setting, from home to business.
It’s available in either automatic or semiautomatic configurations, and there are different options for group heads depending on your needs. If you don’t have a lot of space, you can even select a compact version.
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Automatic or Semiautomatic Options – Choose a machine that’s specifically tailored to your needs with the choices the Nuova Simonelli Appia 2 offers.
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Raised Group Heads – Fit cups of virtually any size underneath the group heads.
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Soft Infusion System – Delicately dampens the coffee prior to extraction to help it settle.
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Reverse Mirror – A reflective surface gives baristas the ability to closely watch each drink and make any corrections necessary.
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Cool Touch Wands – Save your employees from painful burns with steam wands that are always cool to the touch.
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Automated Cleanings – Cleaning is effortless and painless – at the push of a button, the Appia 2 will clean itself.
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The Nuova Simonelli Aurelia 2 is an espresso machine crafted with beauty and convenience in mind.
With the ability to choose between semiautomatic and automatic options, the power is in your hands to shape your espresso into the best it can be.
Comfortable to use, the Aurelia 2 incorporates an ergonomic push-pull steam mechanism that prevents wrist strain and cool steam wands for pain-free cleaning. It can even be environmentally and budget-friendly, with power saving options that will lower your electricity bills.
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T3 Technology – Available in the T3 model only, multiple copper boilers are designed to make it easy for baristas to keep an eye on water temperature in the boilers and make adjustments as needed.
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Raised Group Heads – Brew right into cups of a wide variety of sizes.
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Soft Infusion System – Guarantee even extraction with an infusion system that softly soaks the coffee grounds beforehand.
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Cool Touch Wands – Keep your employees comfortable with a wand that won’t hurt to touch during use or cleaning.
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Reverse Mirror – Baristas can monitor their drinks through a reflective back plate.
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Power Saving Options – Reduce your energy usage (and your bills) using the Aurelia 2’s energy-saving capacity.
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If you’re a smaller to medium business, the La Spaziale S9 may be a fantastic choice for you.
As an automatic machine, it’s quick to learn and operate on a daily basis. With two groups, you can work on multiple drinks simultaneously, so you can easily serve more than one customer at a time.
It comes in compact, traditional, and tall cup options, making it flexible enough to meet the needs of a plethora of professional environments.
You can also keep your drinks at an optimal temperature for as long as possible with a convenient cup warmer.
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Automatic – A breeze to learn and capable of making drinks rapidly.
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Direct-Connect – A must for businesses serving a lot of customers, preventing you from having to refill a water reservoir several times a day.
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Built-in Rotary Pump – Quietly build up to the nine bars of pressure needed in the espresso extraction process so customers won’t be disturbed.
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Stainless Steel Hot Water Spigot – You won’t have to step away to another hot water tank to make Americanos with a rust-resistant hot water spigot built right in.
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Cup Warmer – Customers who opt to drink at your establishment will be able to enjoy warm drinks for the longest time possible with cups that are pre-warmed.
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The quiet La Spaziale S2 is an excellent selection for a variety of settings, including personal home use, office use, and for baristas with any amount of experience.
Aside from being budget-friendly, this machine can be tailored to exceed any expectations with one- to two-group options. You can achieve further optimization in compact and tall cup configurations.
Its stainless steel body translates to durability and longevity for you, in addition to lending it a modern look.
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Automatic – At home, in the office, or in a coffee shop, anyone will be able to learn to use this machine.
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Built-in Pump – Reach the amount of pressure necessary for espresso extraction at a low volume, preventing any disruption in the atmosphere or mood.
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Hot Water Outlet – Trips for hot water are eliminated, with a hot water outlet on the machine within easy reach.
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Direct-Connect – Let your employees focus on the customers with an automatic boiler design that guarantees you won’t need to waste time replenishing an empty reservoir.
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The La Spaziale Vivaldi II is an award-winning option that’s also conveniently good for shoppers limited by a budget. If you’re looking for something with a variety of options without breaking the bank, then this may be the machine for you.
It comes with direct-connect or pour-over options, and sturdy stainless steel construction that will allow it to push through the most strenuous demands.
Convenient touch pad group temperature control means you can adjust the temperature of groups without breaking a sweat at any time.
If you’re worried that budget means sacrificing quality, that couldn’t be further from the truth with the Vivaldi II.
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Pre-Infusion Option – Before extraction, a soft flow of water settles the coffee, protecting from mistakes in tamping.
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Dual Boiler – You won’t need to worry about your steam supply depleting, even with a line of customers out the door.
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Stainless Steel Construction – Attractive meets functional with a stainless steel body that is resistant to rust.
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Touch Pad Group Temperature Control – Make any tweaks you need to group temperature with a user-friendly touch pad display.
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Volumetric Dosing – Guarantee the perfect amount of water for espresso extraction with minimal effort using the automated water volume mechanism.
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Its name isn’t the only thing that’s dreamy about the La Spaziale S1 Dream.
This machine is a solid choice for many different settings, including homes, coffee shops, or restaurants.
Choose whichever fits your needs with direct-connect or pour-over configurations. If you or your baristas are more experienced, then you’ll love the manual semi-automatic button that allows you the freedom to pull any shot you need on the fly.
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Volumetric Dosing – Even beginners can make perfect shots with dosing handled by the machine.
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Dual Boiler – Enjoy the power of a dual boiler system that isn’t doesn’t leave you high and dry when you need to steam milk during a rush.
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Programmable Passive Pre-Infusion Options – Make the best of your flavor extraction every time with the option to program infusion prior to extraction.
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Manual Semi-Automatic Button – Skilled professional baristas can give themselves a challenge by utilizing the analog brewing option to make specialty drinks.
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Built-in Clock with Programmable Timer – Eliminate any need to buy a separate timer to attach to your espresso machine – the S1 Dream has that covered.
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If large lines of customers is something your business experiences often, then the La Pavoni Bar T 2V will be a breath of fresh air for you.
Its massive 14-liter copper boiler can deal with just about any level of demand. Since it’s made from copper, it’s also excellent at holding heat and it’s rust-proof.
The Bar T 2V also comes with a free water softener, which will guarantee the water going into each shot will not negatively impact its quality. On top of that, the water softener removes calcium and magnesium ions from hard water, which helps prevent scaling.
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Volumetric Dosing: Water dosing is automated, allowing baristas to whip through orders.
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Direct Water Feed – With a direct-connect setup, the water reservoir will be replenished on its own so you don’t have to.
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14 Liter Copper Boiler – A rust-proof and antimicrobial boiler with a large capacity can handle a high volume of orders.
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Independent Radiator Hydraulic System – Creates a uniform water temperature by circulating water in the boiler.
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Water Softener: An additional protection that comes with the Bar T 2V at no extra cost to you, and helps to prevent scaling.
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The La Pavoni Bar-Star is exceptionally suited for businesses of all sizes and can become the star of any countertop.
With configurations that offer two to four groups, even the fastest paced coffee shops or restaurants can always get customers served quickly.
The Bar-Star also implements the innovative anti-vacuum valve, which keeps liquid from getting into the steam wand during frothing. This can save you time on cleaning, as well as prevent inconvenient clogs from happening.
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Programmable Dosing – Set water dosing in advance so that you can focus on your customers while the machine handles espresso extraction for you.
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Water Softener – Make sure your water quality doesn’t hold you back, with a free water softener that comes with the machine.
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Large Copper Boiler – There’s no chance of your steam running out during your busiest times with a large capacity boiler that accommodates hundreds of drinks a day.
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Anti-Vacuum Valve – Cleaning the steam wand is made effortless with this design that stops liquids from entering the steam wand during frothing.
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Thermal Stability – There will be no hot or cold pockets in your water with this thermal stabilizing design.
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Pre-Infusion – Worried that new baristas will make mistakes while tamping espresso? Pre-infusion eliminates the margin for error by settling the coffee with a gentle stream of water before extraction.
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Energy-Saving Power Switch – Save money on electric bills with a four-position power switch that can reduce the Bar-Star’s energy consumption by up to 33%.
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For smaller coffee shops, businesses, or even home use, the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II is a superb choice.
It’s available in a direct-connect option for businesses that serve more drinks, or a pour-over option for those at home who may not have a water line to hook it up to.
Its programmable dosing makes it so that even the newest novices can make a great shot of espresso.
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Programmable Dosing – Dosing buttons that are programmable allow the craft of making drinks to be reachable for users of all skill levels.
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Heat Exchange Boiler – Easily brew and steam at the same time with a boiler that’s built with a separate internal compartment and copper tube that brings water to the group heads.
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Push Pull Steam – Froth milk with a gentle push of a switch, saving your wrists from strain.
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Reverse Mirror – With the ability to watch your espresso from all sides as it’s extracted, you can fix any errors immediately.
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Articulating Steam Arm – Enjoy the flexibility to froth milk however makes you most comfortable, with a steam wand that moves in any direction you need.
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Do you have a lot of employee turnover or need your employees to multi-task?
Then the Nuova Simonelli Talento might fit the bill for you.
As a super-automatic machine, the Talento can take care of the drink making process for you until the end, from grinding the espresso to frothing the milk. With just the push of a button, you can rest easy that the highest quality drink is being crafted while you’re free to attend to your business and customers.
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Super-Automatic – Train new users in just a few minutes on this user-friendly machine. Available in one- or two-step configurations to fit your needs. In the one-step configuration, all your barista needs to do is push a button and the machine will handle the rest. In the two-step configuration, you’ll need to fill a pitcher of milk, but once you place it under the steam wand, you can choose from an array of steaming options that will be done for you.
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Dual Hoppers and Grinders – Save on the cost of buying a separate grinder – two hoppers and grinders are built right into the machine for you, allowing you to grind two kinds of espresso at once.
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Multiple Drink Size Options – Brew directly into shot glasses or tall cups without having to transfer the espresso into the cup yourself.
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Temperature Stability – The solid metal build of the Talento holds heat far more efficiently than plastic, guaranteeing consistent temperatures for your espresso.
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Advanced, Easy to Use Menu – Even amateurs will be able to make a perfect drink using a clear display with simple, understandable options.
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Automated Milk Steaming – Baristas are free to focus on building rapport with your customers with a machine that will perfectly steam the milk for them.
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If the ease of a super-automatic machine sounds perfect for you but the price tag doesn’t, the Nuova Simonelli Prontobar could be just what you need.
At a lower price than the Talento, the Prontobar is a smaller investment while still granting you the advanced technology of a super-automatic machine. It’s the ideal solution for business that are medium-sized.
It comes in one- or two-step options. The one-step model can build the entire drink for you, while the two-step option will require you to fill a milk pitcher for it.
Super-Automatic – Enjoy the luxury of a machine that creates perfect drinks by itself for you with the one-step configuration. With the two-step machine, give your baristas more control over the quality of each drink by pouring milk themselves.
LCD Display – An easy to read display makes the Prontobar simple to operate for anyone whether they are a professional or not.
Energy Saving – An on/off setting or standby function brings energy efficiency to this espresso machine, lowering your energy bills.
Temperature Stability – The Prontobar uses a thermal system that protects against fluctuations in temperature that could render an espresso undrinkable.
Dual Hoppers and Grinders – Save time by being able to grind espresso and make drinks all in one place.
Automated Milk Steaming – Milk will be steamed to the perfect silky texture every time with a steaming process entirely automated.
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Beauty and efficiency are combined in the Victoria Arduino White Eagle.
With configurations that come in two- or three-group options, it’s ideal to grace the counters of larger businesses.
Its volumetric dosing or manual dosing choices make it so more experienced baristas can enjoy more control or beginners can guarantee the same level of quality as their advanced counterparts.
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Volumetric or Manual Dosing – The ability to choose between volumetric or manual dosing can challenge experienced users or boost novices.
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Cool Touch Wands – Cleaning steam wands is no longer risky, with steam wands that are cool to the touch.
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Reverse Mirror – Monitor each drink closely for quality with a reflective back plate that also looks shiny and sleek.
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Automated Cleanings – Closing shop at the end of the day is even quicker with an automated cleaning function that will clean whichever group the user chooses.
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Raised Group Heads – Pour directly into cups of virtually any size, lowering the risk of disturbing the perfect layer of crema at the top of the drink.
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Shot Timer – There’s no need to buy a separate timer, as the White Eagle has built-in shot timers on each group head so each shot can be timed.
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T3 Technology – Temperatures for each group had can be programmed easily by baristas for a higher level of accuracy.
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Customers will be impressed by both the speed and look of the Victoria Arduino Black Eagle.
It comes in two – or three-group configurations that can make numerous drinks simultaneously, ensuring your customers never have too long a wait for their orders.
The Black Eagle uses a gravimetric technology that is nothing short of ground-breaking. It uses a scale in the drip tray that weighs every single espresso shot to guarantee unwavering quality.
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Gravimetric Technology – A unique system that weighs each espresso shot will make sure every drink you make is as good as the last.
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Cool Touch Wands – Your employees will feel more comfortable with a steam wand that will never burn them.
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T3 Technology – Baristas can set the temperature for each brew group, making a higher level of accuracy achievable.
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Volumetric or Manual Dosing – Volumetric or manual dosing options makes the Black Eagle suitable for every skill level.
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LED Screen – The Black Eagle’s straightforward and clear LED display lets users monitor boiler temperature, timing, and espresso volume all in one convenient place.
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Soft Infusion System – Drink quality will be high no matter who’s at the counter with a soft infusion system that evenly saturates the coffee before extraction.
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Specialty shops or businesses with a highly skilled staff will most likely be interested in the La Pavoni Bar L.
Baristas have complete control over the quality of each drink, using a lever mechanism so that drinks are essentially hand-made works of art. Your customers will undoubtedly be impressed by the work that will go into making their order with this machine.
The Bar L is available in in two- or three-group options so it can handle medium or high-level traffic.
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Manual Lever Operation – Skilled baristas will shine using a machine that gives them the highest level of control over the flavor of every drink.
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Anti-Vacuum Valve – Clogged steam wands are a distant memory, as the anti-vacuum valve stops liquid from backing up into the wand.
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Large Boiler – A large capacity boiler means you’ll never run out of steam in the middle of a rush.
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Telescopic Handles – Easily move the machine for cleaning or rearranging.
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Power Saving Switch – During lulls, employees can set the machine to three-quarters of its power, saving on energy consumption.
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Thermal Stability – Water temperature consistency means there won’t be any cold pockets in the water to lower the quality of your espresso.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW LONG TO DO COMMERCIAL ESPRESSO MACHINES LAST?
The lifespan of a commercial espresso machine depends largely on the type you get and how well you maintain it. Purchasing a higher-quality machine along with regular care will result in a longer lifespan.
We’ve heard of high-end machines that are well-maintained lasting for well over a decade. Some people report that their espresso machines have lasted for as much as a couple decades.
All of the machines on this list are designed to last an extremely long time as long as you perform regular maintenance and are using proper water softening.
The top brands we sell such as Nuova Simonelli and Victoria Arduino also have fantastic support packages.
Ask our live chat or give us a call for more details.
DO YOU HAVE FINANCING AVAILABLE?
Don’t have the means to pay the entire cost of an espresso machine up-front? No need to worry – there are financing options available. Majesty Coffee is pleased to offer financing to our customers through Klarna.
If you apply and you’re eligible, Klarna will finance the purchase so that you can pay for your espresso machine in installments as opposed to all at once. This is perfect for business owners and prosumers on a budget who don’t want to be restricted to a smaller number of espresso machine options.
WHICH ESPRESSO MACHINE DOES STARBUCKS USE?
Starbucks is one of the most recognizable and commercially successful coffee chains in the world. It’s only natural to wonder how much their machines contribute to their success, as well as what specific type of machine they use.
In every Starbucks, you’ll find a custom-made superautomatic espresso machine called a Mastrena. These machines are produced specifically for Starbucks coffee shops, and they’re designed to be shorter so baristas can see customers.
DO YOU OFFER ESPRESSO MACHINES FOR RENT?
Renting an espresso machine may be appealing to you if you want to test one before buying, you don’t need one long-term, or you don’t want to invest in one completely right now. Unfortunately, Majesty Coffee does not currently rent our espresso machines. Our espresso machines are purely for purchase.
If cost is a concern for you, though, keep in mind that we do offer financing through Klarna. This will allow you to break the cost of each machine down into more manageable payments.
TAKE OUR QUIZ TO FIND THE BEST ESPRESSO MACHINE FOR YOU
Our professional team at Majesty Coffee is here to help you make the best investment for your business. Reach out to our friendly staff via live chat, e-mail or by phone today at (888) 978-5224!
Want help right away? Book a call below with one of our espresso experts!
