Commercial Espresso Machine

Commercial espresso machines are sized by group heads. Power and water hookups decide what fits.

Updated Oct 20, 2026. Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.

Where to buy

Restaurant supply stores and specialist espresso dealers sell most new machines. Dealers often add installation and service. Used and refurbished units turn up on marketplaces and at equipment auctions.

Professional insight

Cafe equipment buyers size the machine to peak-hour drinks. Then they confirm local service support.

Steam boiler size limits milk drinks more than groups.
Test your water hardness before choosing a filter.
Ask which local technicians stock parts for that brand.
Two groups give a backup if one fails.

Check the label

Data plate voltage matches your supply, often 208 to 240 V.
Amperage and phase match your circuit.
Plug type is stated, for example NEMA 6-30.
NSF, UL or CSA marks appear where your health code needs them.
Group count and boiler size match the listing.
Serial number is legible for warranty and parts.
Model year is listed on used units.

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Types

Group count by daily volume
Groups	Drinks per day	Counter width
1 group	Under 80	18 to 24 in
2 group	80 to 300	28 to 32 in
3 group	300 or more	36 to 45 in

Volumetric machines stop each shot at a set volume. Semi-automatic machines leave timing to the barista. Volumetric control can raise speed and consistency at the same group count.

Specs to match

Water supply: plumbed line or reservoir.
Drain: gravity drain or pump to the sink.
Pump: rotary pumps suit plumbed lines and steady pressure.
Boiler layout: heat exchanger, dual boiler or multi-boiler.
Steam wands: one per barista on milk at rush.

Setup tips

1Measure the counter, including room behind for hoses.
2Book a dedicated circuit and a water line before delivery.
3Fit a water filter or softener sized to your water test.
4Have the dealer or technician commission the machine.
5Log the first filter change date on the machine.

Ways to save

Refurbished machines from a dealer often include a short warranty.
Leasing spreads cost and may bundle service.
Buy the group count you need now, not one size up.
Ask whether install and first service are included.

Red flags

Used machine with heavy scale around the group heads.
Seller cannot show it pulling a shot or steaming.
Grey-market import with the wrong voltage for your country.
No serial plate or a plate that has been removed.

Common questions

Can I plug a commercial machine into a normal outlet?: Most need a dedicated 208 to 240 V circuit. Small one-group models may differ, so read the spec sheet.
Do I need a plumbed water line?: Most commercial machines do. A few one-group models offer a reservoir option.
How many groups does a small cafe need?: Many cafes settle on two groups. Under 80 drinks a day, one may do.