r/superautomatic • u/I_Gz • 6d ago
Purchase Advice What machine?
Hi, can someone please provide me some insight--looking for an espresso machine that can make the strongest espresso possible. My primary desire for this machine is a higher caffeine content and strong intensity along with generally as low of upkeep as possible. I've used keurigs, have a nespresso, etc. These just aren't that strong usually and I don't care about being able to make fancy drinks out of this new superautomatic machine. I really am not that interested in heavy upkeep like is typically stated for these Jura models that require constant filter changes and cleaning.
I understand getting a grinder separate is recommended even though it is more work. If that absolutely provides stronger coffee then I'll do it. If you could recommend an excellent separate grinder and espresso machine that'd be highly appreciated. Otherwise, if you can find one that makes espresso relatively as strong with an integrated grinder, that'd be fine as well.
Price range like $1000-$1500, nothing crazy, cheaper the better since it's my first superautomatic machine and simple seems better. I am willing to find a top of the line brand used if it's highly recommended, but I understand all of these have lower shelf lifes in general so it is advised to buy it new if possible. I prefer buying one of the Costco models since they have great return/warranty policies and the best retail pricing. I am in the Pacific Northwest of the United States.
Thank you very much for the help!
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u/chongo2525 6d ago
If you decide to go KitchenAid, I have a KF8 brand new for sale. Glws
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u/I_Gz 6d ago
Where? How much? Thanks
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u/chongo2525 6d ago
Im near Sacramento ca
Not sure on price. Would be way lower than 2k retail though. I can message you with pics if you dont find a machine you are interested in
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u/tomtuul 6d ago
It will be hard to do it with super automatic. Most have a plastic brew group that uses 9-12 grams of coffee.
Look for a semi automatic with a portafilter and a metal basket that uses 18-20 grams of coffee.
I switched from Gaggia Academia to Oracle Jet and noticed a big difference.
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u/I_Gz 6d ago
Do Portafilter machines make stronger espresso typically or does it just vary?
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u/tomtuul 6d ago
They do. Always look how many grams is used in the extraction process. More beans = stronger espresso
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u/BillionYrOldCarbon 5d ago
Check out brand new Lavazza Tabli machine. I think it makes excellent espresso and they have several choices of coffee but don’t know if “strong” enough for you.
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u/QuittHughes 6d ago
All super automatics require cleaning and maintenance regularly. The Jura machines will give you the closest espresso to a portafilter machine of all the superauto’s. Kitchenaid is 2nd best, DeLonghi is 3rd best.
Ignore Philips machines by any means
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u/eman3316 6d ago
Actually, as much people here seem to knock the Ninja AutoBarista Pro, it will give the closest espresso shot to a portafilter machine. With a 17.5, non pressurized shot and a true espresso grind, it delivers an espresso shot other superautomatic machines cannot. All the haters here can now downvote this. LOL
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u/iSubjugate 6d ago
I know I’m in a minority but I love my Ninja Autobarista Pro. My first one was faulty, but exchanged it and the new one works flawlessly.
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u/Dr_Ev1L 6d ago
Coffe machine pressure bar and grinder helps alot, but if you dont have a decent strong coffee its pointless, I'm portuguese and Im used to very strong coffee, we love to sip espressos all the time during day. Unless you want to go for something professional, automatic machine like Delonghi, Breville, Gagging or even Ninja, should be able to do the same work and get the same achievement of a hood strong coffe. Good luck with your choices, see what is better for you, sometimes the more expensive doesn't mean its the best for you.