An immersion-style or Moka pot is the easiest to use but it doesn’t produce authentic espresso.
The easiest kind of espresso machine for beginners to use is an immersion-style model like a stovetop “Moka pot” or “Stovetop Espresso Maker”.
This type of coffee maker functions like a French press only with pressure applied by steam.
You pour water into the bottom chamber insert a filter and coffee grounds then boil the contents until you have espresso.
These machines are easy to use because they don’t require electricity; instead they operate on direct heat from your stove.
Another option that’s fairly simple for novices is pod-based espresso machines (like Nespresso).
You can pick from a variety of flavors and enjoy your espresso with minimal effort as you only need to put the pod into the machine and press a button.
An electric pump-style machine is next on the list.
These models often come with easy-to-use menus and dials which simplify the process of selecting your coffee intensity or temperature setting.
Many also have automatic milk frothers that make it even easier for newbies to create café-quality drinks.
The stovetop method of making espresso is time-consuming compared to other options primarily because you must heat water in a separate vessel before transferring it to the machine’s chamber for brewing.
Electric pumps take less time than steam machines but there is some wait involved since you need to heat both the milk and the espresso shots.
An electric single boiler is next on the list of easiest types of espresso makers for novices to learn how to use.
With this design all coffee-making steps happen within a single container: You insert a filter and grounds into a portafilter basket; add boiling water from your kettle; press down on the plunger to create pressure; and finally pump steam through the grounds.
This type of device makes it easy to prepare one or two shots at a time but not many more than that.
As with other electric models you must heat both milk and shots separately before combining them.
An electronic steamer comes in last place because it’s difficult for newcomers to control steam or pressure so there’s a greater chance of making mistakes.
To use it you load water into the machine’s reservoir and choose one of two buttons for single or double shots of espresso.
The machine heats the water to boiling temperature with an electronic heating element then pumps steam through your grounds until you have your drink.
Can Beginners Start From A Regular Espresso Machine?
If you want to start making espresso shots as soon as possible then yes.
However if you’d like to adjust your shot’s strength or milk-frothing technique before moving up to a more advanced machine it’s probably worth learning how an immersion-style model works first.