Espresso Machine vs. French Press Which One Is Right for You?

Last updated on March 10th, 2025 at 12:14 pm

Ever wondered whether a French press or an espresso machine is the right choice for you?

I’ve been there. Back in my school years, I had a French press, and at the time, I thought it could do it all. I used it to make everything from lattes to cappuccinos, thinking I was a coffee expert.

It wasn’t until one unfortunate morning when I knocked it off the counter and shattered the glass that I realized one of its biggest downsides: durability.

Years later, I upgraded to a Breville Barista Express, and wow—what a game-changer. The first time I pulled a real espresso shot, complete with rich crema and bold flavor, I knew I had entered a whole new world of coffee. That’s when I realized just how different these two brewing methods really are.

So, should you go for a classic French press or take the plunge with an espresso machine?

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences in taste, convenience, cost, and brewing method so you can pick the best option for your coffee routine!

Key Differences Between Espresso Machines and French Press

When it comes to brewing coffee, the Espresso Machine and the French Press offer distinct experiences. Understanding their key differences can help you choose the method that works for your taste and lifestyle.

Aspect	Espresso Machine	French Press
Brewing Method	Utilizes high-pressure extraction (9+ bars) to force hot water through finely ground coffee, producing a concentrated shot.	Involves steeping coarsely ground coffee in hot water for several minutes before pressing to separate grounds, resulting in a full-bodied brew.
Coffee Strength & Flavor	Delivers a strong, concentrated coffee with bold, complex flavors and a layer of crema on top.	Produces a milder, smooth coffee with a rich, full-bodied texture, allowing the natural oils to remain in the cup.
Brew Time	Quick extraction, typically taking 25-30 seconds per shot.	Requires a longer brewing time, usually around 4-5 minutes for proper steeping.
Equipment & Cost	Higher initial investment, ranging from $300 to $2,000+, depending on the model and features.	Budget-friendly option, with prices typically between $20 and $80.
Maintenance & Cleaning	Requires regular maintenance, including cleaning, descaling, and backflushing to ensure optimal performance.	Simple to clean; usually involves rinsing and occasionally scrubbing the mesh filter.

Tips:

• Consider Your Preferences: If you enjoy a quick, intense coffee experience and are willing to invest in equipment, an espresso machine might be ideal. For those who prefer a hands-on approach with a fuller-bodied coffee, the French Press is a great choice.
• Space and Convenience: Espresso machines can be bulky and require counter space, while French Presses are compact and portable.
• Versatility: Espresso machines allow for a variety of coffee-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, whereas French Presses are best suited for straightforward coffee brews.

Note: Both methods have their unique advantages, and your choice depends on your personal taste, budget, and how much time you’re willing to dedicate to your coffee preparation.

What Is an Espresso Machine?

An espresso machine is a coffee lover’s best friend when it comes to brewing rich, concentrated espresso with that iconic crema on top.

Unlike a regular drip coffee maker, it uses high pressure (at least 9 bars) to push hot water through finely ground coffee, extracting all the bold flavors in just 25-30 seconds.

As a result you get a smooth, intense shot of espresso that forms the base of drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos.

Different Types of Machines

Espresso machines come in manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic versions. Each has different levels of control and convenience.

No matter which type you choose, you’ll need a good espresso grinder since grind size makes a huge difference in the quality of your shot.

And yes, they need more regular cleaning and maintenance to keep running smoothly.

Pros	Cons
Makes high-quality espresso with crema	More expensive than other brewing methods
Lets you brew milk-based drinks like cappuccinos and lattes	Requires a proper espresso grinder for the best results
Offers different levels of control, from fully automated to hands-on	Needs regular cleaning and maintenance
Delivers consistent, café-style coffee at home	Some machines have a learning curve, especially manual ones

Examples of Espresso Machines

Espresso machines range from hands-on barista experiences to push-button convenience. So here’s a breakdown of three different types:

1 – Fully Automatic Espresso Machine (Jura E8)

If you want amazing coffee with zero effort, a fully automatic machine like the Jura E8 is a dream come true. It grinds, tamps, brews, and even froths milk with the touch of a button.

These machines are perfect for busy people who just want great coffee without the hassle—but they do come with a higher price tag.

2 – Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine (Breville Barista Express)

For those who love control but still want some convenience, the Breville Barista Express is a great semi-automatic option.

It lets you grind, dose, and tamp the coffee. However, the machine handles extraction and steaming. You kinda get the best of both worlds, giving you room to experiment while keeping things relatively simple.

3 – Manual Espresso Machine – Flair Classic

If you’re a true coffee purist, the Flair Classic is for you. This manual espresso machine is completely hand-powered. In other words, you control everything from pressure to extraction time.

Well, I have to say it’s not for the faint of heart. But if you love the art of making espresso, you’ll enjoy these machines.

What Is a French Press?

A French press is a classic and easy coffee brewing device that uses immersion brewing to extract rich flavors from coffee grounds.

Contrary to drip coffee makers or espresso machines, it doesn’t rely on paper filters or high pressure. Instead, just hot water, coarsely ground coffee, and a little patience.

And as a result, you get a full-bodied, aromatic cup of coffee with natural oils and a bold taste that many people enjoy (myself included).

Pros:	Cons
Easy to use—just add coffee, hot water, steep, and press.	Cleanup can be a bit messy due to wet coffee grounds.
No need for electricity, making it great for travel or camping.	Requires careful timing to avoid over-extraction and bitterness.
Retains coffee’s natural oils, enhancing flavor.	Some sediment may end up in your cup if the grind size isn’t right.
Affordable compared to espresso machines or high-end brewers.

Examples of French Press

If you want a solid French Press, here two great options:

1 – Bodum Chambord French Press

A timeless favorite, the Bodum Chambord features a durable stainless steel frame and a heat-resistant borosilicate glass carafe. It’s stylish, easy to clean, and available in multiple sizes. I suggest it for both solo coffee drinkers and households.

2 – Espro P3 French Press

If you want a cleaner cup of coffee with minimal grit, the Espro P3 is a fantastic choice. It comes with a unique double micro-filter system that reduces sediment while preserving French press coffee’s rich flavors. Plus, its shatter-resistant glass makes it extra durable.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between an espresso machine and a French press boils down to your personal coffee preferences and lifestyle.

• If you’re after a bold, concentrated shot with the versatility to craft lattes and cappuccinos, an espresso machine is your go-to.
• However, if you prefer a smoother, full-bodied cup and appreciate a straightforward brewing process, the French press is a fantastic choice.

Do you have questions or personal experiences to share? I’d like to hear your comments below and with that voilà!