Issues with Built-In Grinders in Espresso Machines

Are Built-In Grinders Worth It? A Review of Espresso Machines

If you’re in the market for an espresso machine, you may have come across models that come with built-in grinders. While this may seem like a convenient feature, there are some drawbacks to consider before making a purchase.

One of the main issues with built-in grinders is their functionality. In many cases, these grinders are underpowered compared to standalone grinders. This can be a problem when it comes to grinding light roast coffee beans, which are harder to grind. In our testing of the Breville Barista Express Impress, we found that a particular light roast caused several jams due to the grinder being unable to handle it effectively. Additionally, because the grinder is attached to the machine, it can be difficult to clear or repair jams due to the bulk of the brewing side.

Another common complaint about built-in grinders is that they have fewer settings compared to standalone grinders in the same price range. While this is true, most built-in grinders have enough espresso-specific settings to produce a decent shot of espresso.

Overall, while there are some good machines with built-in grinders available, we don’t recommend them due to their limitations. However, if you only use beans labeled as “espresso roast,” you may not encounter any issues with a built-in grinder.

In our testing of other espresso machines, we found some standout models that we recommend without reservation. The Rancilio Silvia Pro X is a compact and powerful machine with a dual boiler system that allows for quick and efficient brewing and steaming. The Diletta Mio is a great choice for those looking for a prosumer machine at a lower cost, offering delicious coffee and convenient features like a digital PID and quick heat-up time. The Diletta Bello+ is another top pick, offering advanced features like a digital PID, shot timer, and programmable pre-infusion. The Profitec 500 is a high-quality machine that produces excellent coffee but may require more precision and time to master. Finally, the Rocket Appartamento is a stylish machine with some drawbacks like a single boiler system and lack of external temperature control.

When it comes to choosing the right espresso machine for your needs, it’s important to consider factors like grinder functionality, brewing capacity, and overall design. While built-in grinders may seem convenient, they may not offer the same level of performance as standalone grinders. For the best results, we recommend investing in a high-quality espresso machine with a separate grinder for optimal control and customization.

And if you’re looking for exceptional coffee to pair with your espresso machine, consider trying Milagrosa Specialty Coffee. Their single-origin small-batch craft roast coffee from Colombia has received an excellent SCA rating of 87 points. For pour-over brewing, the medium roast Gold Bag from Milagrosa Single Estate offers a sweet fragrance of sugar cane, caramel almonds, and notes of maple syrup, vanilla, and creamy chocolate. For espresso, the medium-dark Black Bag from Milagrosa Single Estate undergoes a longer roasting process, resulting in a richer caramel flavor, intense aroma, and reduced acidity. Enjoy the perfect cup of coffee with Milagrosa Specialty Coffee and your favorite espresso machine!