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To some people, stopping by Starbucks before work or class is essential to kick start their day with a nice shot of espresso. Often, after you finish your drink, you might find yourself wondering about the reason behind its unmatched taste and quality.
Usually, it’s a mixture of premium coffee beans, perfect brewing methods, and using one of the best coffee makers out there. So, what espresso machine does Starbucks use?
What espresso machine does Starbucks use?
Starbucks uses the Mastrena high-performance espresso machine. This beast of a coffee machine is created specifically to match Starbucks coffee standards.
Ready to know more about it?
The Awesome Features of Mastrena Starbucks Espresso Machine
The first thing you should know about this beauty is that it’s a model exclusive to Starbucks branches all over the world. Made by Thermoplan, which is a Swiss-based company, this machine has many worthwhile features.
Barista-Friendly Design
If you were to break down the design of this unique masterpiece, you’ll find out that it’s a barista’s best companion.
For starters, it’s short enough so that it allows eye contact between the barista and the customer. Not to mention that it’s simple to use, which makes the bartender’s job even much easier.
Because it’s a bean-to-cup machine, all that the barista will have to do is put the coffee beans in one end and welcome the drink in the other. This is thanks to the built-in coffee grinder.
Effortless to Clean
Another quality that the mastrena espresso machine has is that it’s painless to take apart. Of course, this makes cleaning a piece of cake for whoever is responsible.
Besides cleaning, being able to disassemble this machine with ease is convenient for maintenance. As a coffee shop manager, you’ll find that these considerations can take a lot of pressure off your back.
Maximum Performance
In addition to the previous points, the Mastrena is appreciated for its amazing performance. Knowing the high demand for Starbucks espresso, the makers of this machine ensured that it answers all commercial needs.
For instance, the Mastrena pairs incredible speed with the perfect water-to-coffee ratio to make espresso.
Also, this machine features an automatic coffee-making system. It’s computerized to remember the process of making other drinks besides espresso, namely cappuccinos and lattes.
After taking note of all those fantastic features, it’s easy to see why Starbucks espresso has the same admirable quality each time you have it.
This free cheat sheet will improve your coffee brew by providing quick information on brew ratio, grind size, optimal brewing time, and more.
How Much Is the Mastrena Espresso Machine Worth?
The price can vary from one place to another, but it’s mostly between $17,800 and $40,000.
Unfortunately, the mastrena espresso machine isn’t available for public purchase. So, whether you want it for home use or your little coffee shop, you’ll have to look for alternatives.
Luckily, we were able to find some remarkable substitutes that you may want to invest in.
Espresso Machines That Make Starbucks-Quality Coffee
We get it. Trying to create an espresso that’s similar to a Starbucks shot can be hard. This is mainly because you can’t have their work-of-art coffee machine at home.
However, a couple of coffee makers might be able to make up for that.
Let’s check them out.
Breville the Barista Express Espresso Machine
People who tried this machine claim that it produces coffee that’s quite similar to a Starbucks espresso. Yet, this isn’t the best thing about this Breville espresso coffee maker.
Marketed for home use, this beauty is much more affordable than the Mastrena machine. Plus, it offers many options to transform your overall coffee-making experience.
- 4 choices of portafilter baskets
- Variety of grind sizes
- Automatic espresso extraction
- Tamper included
- Tamper storage
- Small hopper
- Vague “grind amount” dial
For instance, it has a built-in grinder, which works on-demand to grant you the freshest morning coffee. Besides, it features precise espresso extraction technology. This enables it to deliver water at just the right timing for the perfect consistency.
Other awesome features include:
- Microfoam milk texturing
- Grind size control
- Hands-free operation
- You can choose from single or double shots
- Manual override
- Durable stainless steel body
Even though it’s not the same as the Starbucks machine, you’ll likely admire the results. Once you combine all these points, you should get a rich taste, balanced flavor, and great texture.
De’Longhi Fully Automatic Espresso Machine
De’Longhi is a trustworthy coffee machine supplier, so it’s only natural for it to appear on our list. While it’s still not a match for the Mastrena, you might come to appreciate its espresso.
This DeLonghi espresso machine depends on the even distribution of heat to create your favorite coffee drink. This way, you can count on it for an irresistible taste and a smooth coffee body.
- Heats up in 60 seconds
- Features integrated, professional burr grinder
- Easy-to-use control panel
- Saveable setting combinations
- Manual milk frothing system for cappuccinos and lattes
- Easy cleaning due to the removable brewing system and stainless-steel design
- Makes a loud noise during operation
Also, it’s equipped with an integrated burr grinder with settings that you can control and adjust to your liking. Of course, you could always rely on its automatic programs. However, having the liberty to modify these programs can be appealing to many coffee lovers.
In addition to these amazing options, we liked the following points.
- It includes a cappuccino system frother
- Lightweight and compact design
- A sturdy build to last you years
- Great value for the price
The Best Starbucks Coffee Beans for the Perfect Espresso
Of course, owning one of the previous espresso makers is only half the distance to creating a premium cup of coffee. If you want to get the closest thing to a Starbucks espresso shot, we recommend the following picks (paid links).
- Starbucks Espresso Dark Roast Whole Bean Coffee
- Starbucks French Roast Whole Bean Coffee
- Starbucks Medium Roast Whole Bean Coffee – Variety Pack
- Starbucks Dark Roast Whole Bean Coffee – Caffè Verona
- Starbucks Dark Roast Ground Coffee – Sumatra
The Bottom Line
A nagging question might occupy your mind, especially if you’re a coffee enthusiast. What espresso machine does Starbucks use?
Now, you know the answer. Starbucks depends on the Mastrena automatic espresso machine, a creation courtesy of Thermoplan. Keeping many factors in mind, the makers of this machine were able to provide baristas with amazing features to make the perfect coffee.
The next time you grab a Starbucks espresso, you may want to take a minute to silently thank the Mastrena for its wonderful masterpiece!
Brooke Davis
Hi everyone, my name is Brooke and I’m a Barista and freelance writer. I love brewing coffee and my favorite coffee drink is without doubt an Americano (espresso with added hot water). When I’m not busy making or writing about coffee you’ll find me hanging out at the beach with friends in California where I am currently residing. Follow me on: LinkedinThis free cheat sheet will improve your coffee brew by providing quick information on brew ratio, grind size, optimal brewing time, and more.
