A coffee maker is an electric coffee-making device in which hot water under pressure or high heat is forced through ground coffee. The ground coffee is in a special horn, hence the name of the device. A lot has been written about carob coffee makers, so we will focus on practical issues: how to choose, what to count on and pay attention to, what can you get for your money?
Why are coffee makers called carob coffee makers?
Carob-type coffee makers get their name from the nest into which ground coffee is poured and compacted. It is called a horn, and in a foreign manner - a holder.
The coffee maker can be single- or double-horned. The latter are, as a rule, semi-automatic and automatic coffee makers designed for large volumes of preparation.
Are carob and espresso coffee makers the same thing?
A carob coffee maker is a type of espresso coffee maker. Depending on the functions of the coffee maker, you can also prepare espresso-based drinks in it - cappuccino, lungo, flat white, and so on.
Full-cycle automatic coffee machines are essentially complex carob coffee makers with automated processes, a sophisticated design of the heating group and expanded functionality. In everyday life, coffee machines are still classified as a separate group of devices, and the term “carob” is applied to automatic, semi-automatic and manual coffee makers of the initial and middle class.
Steam coffee maker
It has the simplest design and primitive operating principle. Water enters a hermetically sealed chamber and is heated to a boil (98-100 degrees). A pressure of up to 4 atmospheres is created in the chamber - it simply cannot be higher according to safety regulations. When the water reaches the desired temperature, under the pressure of hot steam, the water from the heating chamber is pushed out and passes through the ground coffee, turning into ready-made coffee. Such coffee makers are sometimes called boiler coffee makers.
Distinctive features of a steam coffee maker
- A small tank due to the fact that the water requires strong and uniform heating.
- The coffee maker does not have a thermostat. The design requires heating water almost to boiling.
- Low pressure, compared to pump coffee makers, up to 4 bar.
- The taste of the drink in a steam coffee maker, according to experts, is rougher and harsher due to the fact that it is brewed with water at too high a temperature.
- A manual cappuccino maker, called a “panarello”, is found in all models of steam carob coffee makers.
Pros of a carob steam coffee maker
- Low cost. Price tags for steam coffee makers start from 2,500 rubles, and for promotions they are lower by another 10-15%.
- Compact sizes. The water reservoir is small, the coffee maker does not take up much space.
- Quick cooking, approximately 2-4 minutes. This is longer than in a pump coffee maker, but less than in a drip or geyser coffee maker.
- High temperature promotes good extraction and strength of the drink.
Cons of a steam coffee maker
- Relatively low pressure - up to 4 bar, for comparison, in a pump pump - 15 bar.
- There is no way to adjust the temperature; the coffee is brewed with almost boiling water, which reduces its aromatic properties.
- Small volume for 2-4 cups of espresso.
- Slight variation in recipes. Basic ones - espresso and cappuccino.
- Difficulty in mastering the operation of a cappuccino maker. Many users cannot adapt to a simple manual panarello cappuccino maker.
Who is a steam coffee maker suitable for?
- Members of a small family or people living alone who like to drink a cup of espresso and expect strength and energy from it.
- For beginner lovers of natural coffee.
- Thrifty users.
Reviews of steam coffee makers
Several reviews from real owners will give a rough idea of what you should be prepared for when purchasing a steam coffee maker.
Irina, owner of the De Longhi EC 7 coffee maker
— A simple and unpretentious model. It seems to me that the coffee is not as strong as it is brewed in a regular cafe, but it is quick and easy. In the morning she is the only one who helps out when there is no time to stand with the Turk. There is a cappuccino maker, you need to get used to it, but if you take good milk and do not immerse the cappuccino maker to the very bottom, then the froth for cappuccino will be excellent. I consider the speed and simplicity to be a plus, but the plastic horn and low pressure to be a minus.
Vladimir, owner of the Scarlett SC coffee maker
— I was flattered by the price. The model was on sale and I got it very cheap. The coffee brews quickly. On the plus side, milk foam turns out well. I see a lot of disadvantages - there is no water indicator, there is no automatic shutdown, the seal of the water tank lid began to crack two months after the start of operation. I wasn't thrilled, but my wife likes it because of its compact size.
Nina, owner of the Polaris PCM model
— My coffee maker makes coffee quickly, almost silently. It is stable and does not slip. The horn is metal, the water container is made of special glass, there are no unnecessary odors. My coffee always turns out delicious, although they say that steam coffee makers are worse. Among the advantages, I will mention the build quality and materials of the coffee maker, delicious coffee, appearance and build quality. The downside is that it cooks a small amount, just one cup. If you buy for a family, it will definitely be too small.
Examples of steam coffee maker models
Models from well-known manufacturers are often found on the shelves of chain stores. Among the steam carob coffee makers you may encounter the following models:
- De Longhi E.C.
- Scarlett S.C.
- Polaris PCM
- Rowenta Allegro ES
- Redmond R.C.M.
- Sinbo SCM
Rating of steam carob coffee makers
You can read more about our rating in the article “Rating of carob coffee makers.”
TOP 3 steam carob coffee makers in the segment up to 8,000 rubles looks like this.
- 1st place – Polaris PCM 4002 at a price of 3990 rub. The best balance of quality, functionality, reliability and price in its category.
- 2nd place – De Longhi EC 7 at a price of 3500 rub. Second place due to frequent complaints about the quality of the finished drink and the high price.
- 3rd place - Scarlett SC-037 at a price of 2990 rub. The model received an honorable third place for its affordable price tag.
Top 10 best carob coffee makers for home
When buying, you need to look at more than just the price. Consider the material, packaging and built-in functions. We have compiled a rating of the best carob coffee makers for home according to consumer opinions. The review will help you choose a model.
Smeg ECF01
Price – 38,790 rub.
Dimensions:
| Diameter | 15 cm |
| Height | 30 cm |
| Depth | 33 cm |
Compact carob machine with steam function. The body consists of painted metal and colored plastic. The base is made of chrome-plated plastic. Stainless steel was used for the frame, cappuccino maker, and cup tray. Includes measuring spoon, latte tray, removable water tank and filters: double, single and paper pods.
The quantity and temperature of coffee can be adjusted. The water hardness can also be adjusted (hard, medium and soft). For cappuccino lovers, steam adjustment is provided.
Advantages
- good quality;
- drop protection;
- simple control panel;
- presence of a cappuccino maker;
- The device beeps when cleaning is required.
Flaws
- high price;
- You need to whip up the foam yourself.
De'Longhi ECI 341 Distinta
Price – 10,740 rubles.
Dimensions:
| Diameter | 20 cm |
| Height | 31 cm |
| Depth | 32 cm |
This product is the best value for money. The coffee maker has a metal finish and chrome parts. The body is matte and has vintage-style patterns on the surface.
Control type – mechanics. You can prepare several servings at the same time. Either ground coffee or filter bags are used.
You will have to monitor the preparation of the drink; there is no automatic shutdown. There is also no hot water supply or cup warming.
Advantages
- low price;
- water level indicator;
- removable tray for collecting drips.
Flaws
- lack of control panel;
- There is no switch-on lock if water is not poured.
De'Longhi EC.680.M
Price – 15,000 rubles.
Dimensions:
| Diameter | 15 cm |
| Height | 31 cm |
| Depth | 33 cm |
Horn device with adjustable cappuccino system. You can adjust the milk frother, whisk and heat the liquid. Heated by a thermoblock. It maintains pressure up to 15 bar, which is enough for foam and rich aroma.
Pods are used for preparation. You can brew several servings at the same time - the coffee maker has a double tray.
Advantages
- removable tray (you can use glasses of different heights);
- heating after shutdown;
- high pressure.
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Disadvantages
- lack of a coffee grinder;
- you need to prepare cappuccino manually;
- no control over coffee strength.
Gaggia Carezza DeLuxe
Price – 21,900 rub.
Dimensions:
| Diameter | 28 cm; |
| Height | 33 cm |
| Depth | 32 cm |
Metal product with a boiler. Reaches pressure up to 15 bar. Allows you to prepare several servings. You can make cappuccino, but you will have to monitor the process from start to finish. The device will not turn off after preparing a drink.
There is a water level indicator and a tray for collecting drips. Heating is also provided. Another useful feature is hot water supply. This way you can adjust the strength and temperature of the coffee.
Advantages
- compactness;
- automatic washing;
- pressure gauge;
- power-on indication.
Flaws
- no anti-drip system;
- There is no auto-dosing of espresso.
Ascaso Dream Ground
Price – 42,990 rub.
Dimensions:
| Diameter | 25 cm |
| Height | 35 cm |
| Depth | 28 cm |
The device is made of different types of steel. The horn is made of metal and the body is made of polished aluminum. There is a special grid on the surface for easy cleaning. It can be removed and the device can be completely cleaned.
You can easily track the temperature and water level. A sensor was placed on the front wall of the carob coffee maker. It shows the degree of liquid from the thermoblock. To estimate the volume, just look at the transparent tank.
Advantages
- hot water supply and protector;
- preparing two cups at a time;
- measuring spoon and tamper included.
Flaws
- heavy weight (7 kg);
- no display.
Polaris PCM 1523E
Price – 11,485 rub.
Dimensions:
| Diameter | 21 cm |
| Height | 32 cm |
| Depth | 31 cm |
Small-sized coffee machine made of metal. Easy to use. You just need to place the cups and select settings. You can adjust the temperature, milk foam density and strength. There is no need to monitor the process; the device will make a characteristic click and turn off itself.
For convenience, the kit includes a measuring spoon and a seal. There is also an adjustable tray for different types of glasses and a removable drip tray.
Advantages
- power sensor;
- speed (the drink is ready in 30 seconds);
- metal horn.
Flaws
- you cannot prepare several servings;
- no display.
De'Longhi ECP 33.21
Price – 12,000 rubles.
Dimensions:
| Diameter | 19 cm |
| Height | 31 cm |
| Depth | 34 cm |
Mechanical high pressure coffee maker. Heats liquid quickly. It only takes half a minute for the coffee to brew completely. After cooking it turns off automatically. You can prepare several servings at once. But the cups are limited in height; the glass should not exceed 13 cm.
The device will take up little space in the kitchen. It is easy to carry because the weight is small (4 kg). The body is lightweight and made of plastic.
Advantages
- economical consumption;
- you can choose the amount of water;
- accessory storage system.
Flaws
- vibration and noise during cooking;
- cup height limitation;
- small volume (liter).
Vitek VT-1516 SR
Price – 7,990 rub.
Dimensions:
| Diameter | 26.8 cm |
| Height | 35 cm |
| Depth | 33 cm |
Inexpensive device made of stainless steel and plastic. Three types of coffee are prepared: espresso, latte and cappuccino. Milk is also boiled separately. For preparation you need ground coffee. You can adjust the volume of liquids, make foam and adjust the temperature.
Reviews say that the device is easy to clean. In front there is a grill to collect drips. Additionally, there is a removable tank.
Advantages
- automatic cappuccino maker;
- overheat protection;
- control panel backlight;
- seal and sulfur spoon included.
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Disadvantages
- noise during operation;
- leaks are possible.
Kitfort KT-703
Price – 9,640 rubles.
Dimensions:
| Diameter | 26 cm |
| Height | 33 cm |
| Depth | 32 cm |
The top budget coffee machines include Kitfort KT-703. The device with a pump will prepare cappuccino, latte and espresso. The quantity is adjusted by pressing a button. You can add milk foam, which is whipped in a cappuccino maker. If you need to adjust the temperature, use the thermostat.
The body material and horn are made of metal. The set includes a spoon, milk container and removable trays. The device does not need to be washed manually - the manufacturers have thought of self-cleaning.
Advantages
- no plastic smell;
- stand for small glasses;
- auto shutdown
Flaws
- heavy construction;
- there is no fastening on the tank lids.
KRUPS Calvi XP 3440
Price – 18,990 rub.
Dimensions:
| Diameter | 14 cm |
| Height | 29 cm |
| Depth | 31 cm |
Compact device made of plastic. Heated by a thermoblock. Minimum functions: no hot water supply, display or pressure gauge. But there is a power indicator and a removable tray for collecting drops.
You can prepare two cups at the same time. Moreover, glasses can be of different sizes: there is an additional tray for short mugs. After cooking, the device will turn off automatically.
Advantages
- silent operation;
- small size;
- loads quickly.
Flaws
- the drink turns out cold due to low pressure;
- The filters are difficult to attach to the horn.
Problems that may arise with carob coffee makers
Even reliable and high-quality models can have nuances and features. We won’t be able to tell you about all the failures, but there are problems that are common to many models.
- Water splashes over the edge of the holder. Most likely the pressure is too high. Try turning off the steam function.
- Milk foam does not froth well. Try using a different type of milk, pre-cool it, and do not immerse the cappuccino maker deeply.
- Oddities of work - sudden stops or interruptions. Can't find anything at the service center? Check the mains voltage. Some models are very sensitive to this factor.
- Poor quality of seals and connections. This is mainly the case with cheap models. The only solution is to replace the seals.
- Unpleasant plastic smell. Try running just water through the system several times, without coffee, and then prepare the drink only with fresh and purified water.
Is coffee from a carob coffee maker tasty?
The taste of coffee depends not only on the type of coffee maker, but also on the selected beans and proper grinding.
We can say that coffee in a carob coffee maker turns out delicious if it is brewed according to all the rules from good beans. Espresso lovers value the drink brewed in a pump coffee maker more – it makes the coffee taste better. At the same time, espresso brewed in a steam oven will be tastier than instant coffee or cooked in a microwave oven.
Many people believe that espresso in a geyser coffee maker and in a steam one are quite comparable in quality.
About pressure in different types
Drip brewing
If we take into account the stages of development of coffee makers, then the operating principle of the drip variety remains at the level of the 19th century. The water boils in the boiler, drops of condensate flow through the brewing unit into the prepared cup.
Expert opinion
Vadim Kudryavtsev
Coffee expert, professional barista and simply in love with this aromatic drink.
Ask the barista a question
Brewing occurs not with boiling water, but with liquid cooled by condensation at a temperature of 90-92 degrees. This way, more natural nutrients are preserved. The unit maintains pressure at 1.5 bar.
Only Americano is prepared in drip devices. For cooking, use medium grind grains
Universal percolators
In percolators, steam from boiling water travels up a tube, onto the coffee powder, and then onto the filter. Previously, to circulate water, the vessel was heated with coal, now - with electric heating elements.
The finished drink flows into a container and is poured into cups. Pressure 1.5 bar, water temperature 100 degrees.
The percolator has one container for water and the finished drink. This means it is bitter due to constant brewing. The versatility of the device lies in the ability to make a regular kettle out of it. To do this, you need to remove the percolation system.
Moke - geyser installation for brewing coffee
In this device, the liquid is heated on a gas burner and boils at the bottom of the device. Boiled water (100 degrees) rises and immediately passes through the filter funnel with coffee. Steam pressure 1.3 - 1.5 bar.
The finished brewed product ends up at the top of the installation. It pours into cups through the spout.
Now let's talk about what the grind size affects. To prevent excess substances from getting into the finished product, it is important to use a medium grind or a little finer for this brewing method.
Options for espresso
To make espresso you need to buy a steam or pump coffee maker.
In steam water, it boils in 2 minutes, turns into steam and enters the horn filter under a pressure of 5 bar. The liquid temperature is 100 degrees, which is a minus. Boiling water “pulls out” the bitterness from the grains.
Expert opinion
Vadim Kudryavtsev
Coffee expert, professional barista and simply in love with this aromatic drink.
Ask the barista a question
The most accurate espresso is made by pump-action models, where the water does not boil, but only heats up to 90 degrees.
The pump applies a pressure of 7 bar to a compacted coffee tablet. Both types of coffee makers create milk foam when brewing cappuccino. There is a special steam pipe for this.
Coffee machines work similarly. The pressure is not raised to 15 bar, since the standard for espresso is 9 bar.
Carob varieties
Carob coffee machines include semi-automatic and automatic coffee machines. This is a common type of espresso coffee maker. The grains in the required quantity are placed in the horn, which is why the design got its name. Otherwise the horn is called a holder.
Interesting! How to brew the perfect coffee?
In pump-action carob machines, the water reaches a temperature of a maximum of 95 degrees. Using a pump that creates a pressure of 8-10 bar, the liquid is pushed into the horn. In steam devices, the pressure ranges from 4 to 5 bar, and the water boils.
To preserve the taste and aroma of the drink, it is preferable to take a pump-action carob model.
The advantage of capsule types
If you don't want to bother with beans, buy a good capsule coffee machine. The name means that the unit operates on capsules. A person takes pressed coffee (capsule) and puts it in the desired compartment. One finger press and the process begins.
A hollow needle pierces a coffee capsule. Water (100 degrees) is supplied through the needle using a pump under a pressure of 5-15 bar. After passing through the coffee powder, the liquid is poured into the cup.
The drink options depend on what capsules we use. This could be tea or drinks with cream or milk.
Do you think the coffee from a regular coffee machine is different from a capsule coffee machine?
Not really
Combination devices
If you take a combination coffee maker for use, you can catch two birds with one stone. The main advantage is saving kitchen space. The disadvantages include a lot of effort to care for the nodes, because there are twice as many of them.
When combined, the drip design is combined with espresso. This unit makes a choice of espresso and Americano.
Another design combines a geyser with espresso. Two prescriptions are also issued upon request. The pressure in the machines ranges from 5 to 15 bar. Water temperature is from 90 to 100 degrees. The indicators depend on the selected type of coffee.
Both units are convenient when using capsules and tablets (pods). If desired, you can get a cappuccino.
Automation for ease
The development of modern technology and electronics has led to the creation of fully automated coffee machines. A person is required to load grains and water into containers. The only effort is pressing the desired button.
The devices have special panels with options for ready-made drinks. Among the possible types:
- milk lattes and cappuccinos;
- strong with less ristretto volume;
- voluminous due to lunge water;
- capsule hot chocolate.
Most of these recipes use espresso as a base. Only the proportions of milk, cream, water change and the formation of foam is controlled.
The creation of the recipes listed depends on the water vapor pressure in the coffee machine. The minimum indicator is 4 bars, the maximum is 20.
Electric Turks
Don’t forget about the simplest devices. This is a Turk - a dish in the form of a small jug with a spout for easy pouring of the finished drink. The Arabs call it cezwa. Traditionally, they are made of copper and placed on an open fire, after pouring water and adding ground coffee. This is an old, proven method in which coffee was prepared in the east.
An electric Turk can be considered the same simple coffee maker. A portion of coffee is also poured into it and water is poured in, which is brought to a boil, but using heating elements. We are not talking about pressure here. And the water heats up to 100 degrees.
Low pressure pods
Coffee makers that are used to prepare portions in ready-made bags are called pod coffee makers. The operating principle is similar to horn devices. In steam models, a pod filter is additionally used.
Hot water at a temperature of 100 degrees passes through a bag of ground coffee. The aroma is guaranteed, but foam does not form, since the water pressure is only 3-4 bar.
Interesting! How many cups of coffee will be produced from 1 kg of beans?
How to choose a carob coffee maker
What characteristics are the most important?
Pressure
Steam coffee makers have a pressure of up to 4 bar, pump coffee makers - from 15 to 19. The higher the pressure, the better the espresso.
Water container material
It is better if it is fiberglass or borosilicate glass, then the water will not acquire an unpleasant “plastic” aroma.
Horn material
A metal horn is preferable - it’s easier to clean, and it heats up more evenly, so the coffee tastes better. In coffee makers with plastic holders, the coffee may taste sour due to insufficient extraction.
Housing material
Metal coffee makers are considered more reliable and durable than plastic ones, but in practice plastic serves faithfully.
Number of horns
Double-robe coffee makers allow you to prepare more servings at a time, which is why they are often found in office kitchens and large family homes. A regular coffee maker has only one horn.
Additional functions
Additional settings and functions in different models can make the preparation process easier and the finished coffee tastier.
- The water level indicator will tell you when it’s time to fill the container.
- With auto shut-off, you don't have to stand over the coffee maker.
- A removable drip tray is easier to clean than a non-removable one.
- Heating the coffee will help preserve the taste and aroma of the finished drink and prevent it from cooling down.
- The stop button will help you interrupt the process if something goes wrong.
- The drink strength regulator will ensure consistent espresso quality.
- The temperature regulator allows you to select the optimal water heating to obtain the desired coffee.
The volume of the water container does not greatly influence the choice. You can only prepare two servings of coffee from one cone at a time, no matter how big your container is. After this, the holder will have to be cleaned and washed, so fresh water can be poured into the container.
Price
A carob steam coffee maker can be bought within 5-8 thousand rubles.
Entry-level horn pump - for 8-12 thousand.
A good quality horn pump costs 15-25 thousand.
History of coffee makers
Optimal indicator
The pressure level in a coffee machine and coffee maker affects the formation of foam, enrichment of aroma, creation of taste, and cooling of the drink.
A pressure gauge reading of 9 bar guarantees good espresso coffee. It serves as the basis for all other coffee recipes. But it took years of work by inventors to arrive at this figure.
The first Italian mechanics
An Italian inventor named Moriondo created a device with a water vapor pressure of 1.5 bar. Patented in 1885, the coffee maker existed for 7 years. Luigi Bezzera improved it and achieved an indicator of 2 bars. But it was not possible to keep it constant. Whatever grain he ground during the cooking process, the taste in each cup was different in strength.
Signor Pavoni came up with the idea of installing a control valve. This helped keep the pressure at the same level. But it was not possible to increase the steam force. The figure did not exceed 2 bar.
Interesting! How to brew coffee in a coffee maker
Down with manual labor
The optimal pressure of 9 bar was achieved by 1940, when an additional lever was used to pump water. With this invention, Achil Gadzhia's establishment went down in history. The name appeared - coffee machine. The barista served the drinks with thin foam. It has become an indicator of proper espresso.
The manual piston was replaced with an automatic one after 20 years. Italian Carlo Valente used an electric pump. Now, creating the desired steam did not require any effort, and the taste of the coffee drink became better due to the precise brewing time.
Electronics got involved
The massive use of electronics at the end of the 20th century in all areas was also reflected in coffee machines. Inventors create multifunctional devices.
The desired button allows you to select the option of preparing a hot or cold drink. The menu depends on the device model.
