Machines which contain the addition of pumps, sensors, valves, and grinders to automate the brewing process generally are referred to as automatic.
Semi-automatic machines are automatic in the sense water is delivered by a pump and the user needs to manually press a button to turn on the brew cycle and then once more to turn off the brew cycle. Machines like these are known as semi-automatic. Examples:
- Rancilio Silvia
- Sunbeam Cafe Crema
Automatic machines are also known as volumetric machines. Automatic machines have the ability to have a programmed amount of water to be dispensed by the machine through the group head. Unlike semi-automatic machines, the pump is automatically turned on and off by the machine according to which pre-set button was pressed. Examples:
- Breville Professional 800 BES820
- Expobar Office Automatic
Super-automatic machines operate by automatically grinding the coffee, tamping it, and extracting; all an operator needs to do is fill the bean hopper, and if the machine is not connected to a water line, add water to a reservoir. Additionally, models may contain an automated milk frothing and dispensing device. The user essentially has no control over the process and often produces an inferior cup of coffee. Examples:
- Jura Impressa
- Delonghi Magnifica
