Espresso Coffee VS Drip Coffee: Which One is Better? (2023 Edition)

Before we can deep dive to answer the question which coffee is better, let's explain what is exactly espresso and drip coffee and what makes them unique.

What is Espresso Coffee? 

Espresso is a type of coffee that is made by forcing a small amount of hot water through finely ground coffee beans using high pressure. This process results in a strong, concentrated coffee that is rich in flavor and aroma.

There are 4 Types Of Espresso Machines:

1. Manual espresso machines: These machines require the user to manually control the brewing process by adding the ground coffee and tamping it down before pulling the shot, what makes them fully manual is they have a manual lever instead of electric pump. They can produce high-quality espresso but require a bit more skill and effort to use. Popular brands: Elektra, Pontevecchio, La Pavoni and more.

2. Semi-automatic espresso machines: These machines automate some of the brewing process but still require the user to manually control certain aspects, such as tamping the coffee and starting and stopping the flow of espresso. They are very similar to the manual machines but with an electric water pump. Popular brands: Rocket, Nuova Simonelli, Rancilio and more.
3. Fully automatic espresso machines: These machines handle all aspects of the brewing process automatically, from grinding the coffee to tamping it to brewing the espresso. They are convenient to use but may not produce espresso of the same quality as a manual or semi-automatic machine. Popular brands: Delonghi, PHILIPS, JURA and more.
4. Capsules/ Pods espresso machine: These machines use pre-packaged coffee capsules or pods that contain a single serving of ground coffee. To use a capsule machine, you simply insert a capsule into the machine and press a button to brew the espresso. The quality of the coffee is usually average compared to the other options above but they are the most convenient and easy to use machines. Popular brands: Nespresso, L'OR and more.

What is Drip Coffee? 

On the other hand, drip coffee is made by brewing ground coffee with hot water that is allowed to drip through a filter into a carafe or pot. The resulting coffee is generally less concentrated and has a milder flavor.

There are 3 Main Types of Drip Coffee: 

1. Pour-over coffee: This type of drip coffee is made by pouring hot water over ground coffee beans that are placed in a filter. The water is allowed to drip through the filter and into a carafe or pot. Pour-over coffee tends to have a clean, bright flavor and can be made with a variety of brewing equipment, including a cone-shaped filter holder. Popular brands: Chemex, Hario V60 and more.
2. Automatic drip coffee: This is the most common type of drip coffee, and it is made using an electric coffee maker. The coffee maker heats water and then automatically drips it over ground coffee beans that are placed in a filter. Automatic drip coffee makers are convenient and easy to use, but the flavor of the coffee may not be as complex as other types of drip coffee. Popular brands: Mr. Coffee, KRUPS, Cuisinart and more.
3. Cold brew coffee: This type of drip coffee is made by steeping ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period of time, usually 12-24 hours. The resulting coffee is much milder in flavor than regular drip coffee, and it is often served over ice. Cold brew coffee can be made using a variety of brewing equipment, including a French press or a specialized cold brew coffee maker. Popular brands: Ninja, Bodum and more.

 The Difference: 

One key difference between espresso and drip coffee is the brewing time. Espresso is made very quickly, usually in less than a minute, while drip coffee can take several minutes to brew. This is because the hot water in drip coffee has a longer time to extract the flavors from the coffee grounds.

Another difference is the amount of coffee used. Because espresso is a concentrated form of coffee, it requires less coffee per serving. A typical espresso shot is made with just 7-10 grams of coffee, while a drip coffee may use 15-30 grams or more. 

Espresso is also usually served in smaller quantities than drip coffee, as it is much stronger in flavor. A single shot of espresso is usually served in an "espresso" size cup, which is only about 1-2 ounces, while drip coffee is typically served in a larger mug or cup.

Despite these differences, both espresso and drip coffee can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Espresso is the base for many popular coffee drinks, such as lattes and cappuccinos, while drip coffee is often served black or with milk and sugar.

Ultimately, the choice between espresso and drip coffee comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the strong, bold flavor of espresso, while others enjoy the milder, subtle taste of drip coffee

So which one is better?

It is difficult to say definitively whether espresso or drip coffee is "better" as it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some people may prefer the strong, bold flavor of espresso, while others may enjoy the milder, subtle taste of drip coffee.

Both types of coffee have their own unique characteristics and can be enjoyed in different ways.

Ultimately, the choice between espresso and drip coffee comes down to personal taste and the type of coffee experience you are looking for. Some people may prefer the strong, bold flavor of espresso, while others may prefer the milder, subtle taste of drip coffee.

Conclusion: 

In conclusion both can be delicious options for coffee lovers, and it's worth trying both to see which one you prefer.

In case that you still do not own any Espresso Machine yet, check our full espresso machines collection here to buy the best machine for your needs.