Commercial Espresso Machine Buying Guide
Choosing the right commercial espresso machine can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re opening a new café, upgrading your current setup, or looking for a reliable machine for an office or hospitality setting, you want to find the perfect fit.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of commercial espresso machines, key factors to consider, and how to ensure a smooth installation.
What is a commercial espresso machine?
A commercial espresso machine is designed for high-volume coffee production, built with durability, consistency, and efficiency.
Unlike domestic machines, which are suited for occasional home use, commercial machines are more robust, have greater capacity, and can handle continuous use in cafés, restaurants, and offices.
At Mulmar, we stock the best commercial espresso machines out there, from the most reputable brands out there including Faema, Casadio and La Marzocco.
Types of commercial espresso machines
Manual espresso machines
A traditional machine that requires complete control over the extraction process, including manually pulling the shot using a lever.
Benefits:
✔ Full control over the espresso-making process
✔ Produces high-quality, artisanal shots
Drawbacks:
✕ Requires skill and experience
✕ Slower and less practical for high-volume settings
Standout Product: La Marzocco GS3 (MP Version)
The La Marzocco GS3 MP brings café-quality espresso directly into your home.
Featuring a conical mechanical paddle, the GS3 allows unparalleled control over water flow and brewing pressure, enabling a smooth, even pre-infusion and consistently balanced espresso shots.
Its innovative dual boiler system maintains precise, stable temperatures, allowing simultaneous brewing and steaming.
The exposed saturated group further enhances temperature stability and ergonomics, providing clear visibility and ease of use during brewing.
Semi-automatic espresso machines
These machines have an electric pump but require the user to manually start and stop the extraction process.
Benefits:
✔ Greater control over shot timing and quality
✔ More consistency than manual machines
Drawbacks:
✕ Requires training and practice
✕ Slightly slower than fully automated machines
Standout product: FAEMA E61 Legend
The Faema E61 transformed the espresso machine world back in 1961 by introducing revolutionary group head technology.
It’s equipped with a volumetric pump system which maintains consistent 9-bar pressure throughout the brewing process.
It also features an advanced pre-infusion technique which evenly saturates coffee grounds before extraction, enhancing flavour depth and aroma.
With its iconic, stylish design and proven reliability, the E61 continues to be a classic favourite among coffee enthusiasts and speciality cafés.
Automatic espresso machines
These machines automate the shot timing, delivering consistent espresso at the press of a button.
Benefits:
✔ Consistent results with every shot
✔ Easier to use with minimal training
Drawbacks:
✕ Less control over the extraction process
✕ More expensive than semi-automatic machines
Standout Product: Faema E71 Touch
The Faema E71 Touch takes espresso brewing to a new level.
Ideal for high-demand cafés and coffee specialists, it features an intuitive 4.3″ touchscreen interface, advanced filter holders for peak performance, and exceptional consistency during the busiest periods.
It also includes auto-steam and purge functions to streamline milk preparation and cleanup, allowing baristas to consistently deliver high-quality espresso.
Super-automatic espresso machines
Fully automated machines that grind, tamp, brew, and even froth milk at the touch of a button.
Benefits:
✔ No barista experience required
✔ Fast, efficient, and consistent
Drawbacks:
✕ Limited customisation of espresso quality
✕ Higher upfront cost
Standout Product: Faema X15
The Faema X15 compact coffee machine is sleek and compact, perfect for bustling hotels and modern offices.
Despite its size, it handles up to 150 cups of coffee a day with ease, and with 96 customisable recipes, users can personalise each cup to their exact preferences.
The machine is also compatible with the Cup4You app, allowing users to create their coffee straight from their phone.
Key things to consider
1. Budget: Commercial espresso machines vary widely in price. Consider not just the upfront cost but also maintenance, repairs, and energy consumption.
2. Volume & usage: How many cups of coffee do you expect to serve daily? A busy café will need a machine that can handle high output without slowing down.
3. Water source: Some machines require a direct water line, while others use refillable water tanks. Plumbed-in machines are ideal for high-demand settings, while tank-based machines offer flexibility in smaller spaces.
4. Maintenance & support: Regular maintenance will keep your machine running smoothly. Check if the manufacturer or supplier offers servicing and after-sales support.
Can I install a commercial espresso machine myself?
Installing a commercial espresso machine isn’t as simple as plugging it in. Many models require plumbing, electrical setup, and precise calibration. If you don’t have prior experience, hiring a professional installer can save time and prevent costly mistakes. For more advice and guidance, read our full installation guide.
Rather we handled the installation for you? We have expert technicians available at a moments notice – contact us for installation support today.
Find your espresso machine
With so many options available, choosing the best commercial espresso machine comes down to your business needs, budget, and how much control you want over the coffee-making process. Whether you’re after a manual machine for an authentic barista experience or a super-automatic model for convenience, the right choice is out there for you.