Coffee maker vs. espresso machine: which one is right for you?

How do coffee makers and espresso machines work?

Drip coffee makers use gravity to filter hot water through grounds, while espresso machines use pressure to force water through finely ground coffee. Both heat water, but espresso machines create pressure for a more concentrated brew.

How does a coffee maker work?

A typical drip coffee maker heats water in a reservoir and then drips it over ground coffee in a filter. Gravity pulls the water through the grounds, extracting flavor as it passes into a carafe below, producing a traditional brew.

Coffee makers are familiar and easy to use, which is why they’re found in the homes of casual java drinkers and coffee aficionados alike. You can use them to brew anywhere between 1-14 cups of coffee and they allow you to customize brew strength by adding as much or as little coffee grounds as you prefer. On select KitchenAid^® coffee makers, you can even adjust the strength of your brew for your perfect cup of coffee with the Variable Brew Strength Selector.

Can you make espresso in a drip coffee maker?

You can't make true espresso in a drip coffee maker. Espresso requires high pressure that drip makers can't typically produce. You can make strong coffee, but it won't have espresso's intensity or crema.

While you can't make authentic espresso in a drip coffee maker, you can create a stronger brew by adjusting the grind as well as the coffee-to-water ratio. However, for genuine espresso with its characteristic crema and intense flavor profile, an espresso machine is necessary.

How does an espresso machine work?

An espresso machine forces hot, pressurized water through tightly packed, fine-ground coffee to produce a concentrated shot. It uses a pump to create pressure that extracts intense flavor in 20-30 seconds.

There are a few types of espresso machines: manual, semi-automatic and fully-automatic. Semi- and fully-automatic are the most popular among most coffee drinkers as they take a lot of the guesswork out of brewing espresso. Semi-automatic machines are a bit more hands-on in the brewing process, as they require you to grind and tamp your espresso grounds before placing them in the machine, while fully-automatic machines do all of the work for you with just the press of a button.

Do espresso machines make coffee?

Some espresso machines can make regular coffee, but it depends on the type of appliance. Fully-automatic—also known as super-automatic—machines can sometimes brew a traditional cup of coffee, while semi-automatic and manual machines typically only make espresso shots. Ultimately, it depends on the specifications of each machine.

What are the differences between coffee makers and espresso machines?

Drip coffee makers and espresso machines differ in brewing method, pressure, grind size and drink options. Compare the two types of coffee machines below to help you find the right choice for your kitchen.

Brewing process

Coffee makers usually use a drip brewing method, relying on gravity to pull hot water through coarser grounds over several minutes. Espresso machines, conversely, use high pressure to force hot water through finely ground coffee in about 30 seconds.

Flavor profile

Coffee from a drip maker is typically milder and less concentrated, with a lighter body. Espresso is intensely flavored, concentrated, and topped with crema—a layer of aromatic, reddish-brown foam.

Though you can use your preferred type of coffee bean in either machine, espresso is typically made with darker roasts like Robusta beans. Espresso generally has a higher concentration of caffeine per ounce, but since it's served in smaller quantities, a cup of drip coffee often contains more caffeine overall.

Versatility and drink options

Drip coffee makers primarily produce traditional brewed coffee, which can be the base for drinks like iced coffee, Irish coffee or cafe au lait. Espresso machines offer more variety, creating the foundation for lattes, cappuccinos, Americanos, mochas, espresso martinis and more.

Fully-automatic espresso machines are particularly versatile, often featuring built-in milk frothers to easily create a wide range of espresso-based drinks with both dairy and non-dairy milk alternatives.

Serving size and quantity

If you frequently serve batches of coffee for guests, you may want to opt for a drip coffee maker. These coffee makers typically brew larger quantities, often 4-12 cups per cycle, making them the perfect co-host for breakfast and brunch gatherings. Espresso machines usually produce single or double shots, though some can make multiple shots consecutively.

Size and space requirements

When you’re choosing which coffee machine to add to your coffee bar, consider the amount of counter space you have to work with. Drip coffee makers are generally more compact and require less counter space. Espresso machines, especially semi-automatic models, often have a larger footprint due to their various components.

However, fully-automatic espresso machines can be space-efficient options, as they often integrate features like burr grinders and milk frothers into one appliance, eliminating the need for separate appliances.

Specialty features

Both drip coffee makers and espresso machines can come with a range of features. Select coffee makers offer programmable brewing, adjustable brew strength and thermal carafes that keep your coffee warm for hours. Espresso machines, particularly fully-automatic models, often feature integrated coffee grinders, customizable drink options and precise temperature control.

Ease of use and maintenance

Consider the level of effort you want to make when creating coffee or espresso in the morning. Manual and semi-automatic espresso machines require a few extra steps and a little more attention, while drip coffee makers and fully-automatic espresso machines do most, if not all, of the work for you.

When shopping for a new model, you should also think about the level of maintenance and upkeep each type of coffee machine requires. Some coffee makers require frequent manual cleaning, while others offer self-cleaning cycles that help make maintenance less of a worry.

Price range

The wide range of coffee machine options on the market offer a machine suitable for a variety of budgets. Drip coffee makers generally have a lower price point, while espresso machines, particularly high-quality ones, may be a larger investment.

However, if you’re frequently running to your local coffee shop for your favorite iced lavender latte, investing in a home machine may lead to savings over time. The range of options available means there's likely a machine to suit various budgets and needs.

Should I get an espresso machine or drip coffee maker?

Whether you choose a drip coffee maker or an espresso machine is based on your preferred coffee style and routine. If you enjoy traditional coffee and often need to brew large batches, a drip coffee maker might suit you best. If you prefer a variety of espresso drinks, an espresso machine could be ideal.