15 Bar vs 20 Bar Espresso Machine – Which One Is the Best?

Pressure plays a big role in how an espresso tastes. Espresso machines often advertise their pressure levels, with 15 bar and 20 bar being the most common options. Both numbers sound impressive, but what do they really mean for your daily cup of coffee?

A higher bar level doesn’t always guarantee stronger flavor or creamier crema. Instead, balance between pressure, grind size, and brewing method decides the final result. Coffee lovers often wonder if a 20 bar machine offers real benefits over the traditional 15 bar standard.

The difference affects not only the extraction process but also the consistency of each shot. Home baristas aiming for café-quality espresso need to understand how pressure impacts taste, texture, and overall brewing control.

Comparing 15 bar vs 20 bar espresso machines helps reveal which option fits your style, budget, and expectations for that perfect morning espresso.

15 Bar Espresso Machine vs 20 Bar Espresso Machine

Choosing an espresso machine can feel confusing. Numbers like 15 bar or 20 bar may leave you wondering which is better. Both machines promise rich flavor and creamy crema, but they perform differently.

To make things easier, let’s look at two popular examples. The first one is the De’Longhi 15 Bar Espresso Machine. The second one is the CASABREWS 20 Bar Espresso Machine.

De’Longhi Stilosa Espresso Machine 15 Bar

 

Product Details

• Brand: De’Longhi

• Color: Black and Stainless

• Dimensions: 8.07″D x 13.5″W x 11.22″H

• Special Feature: Milk Frother

• Coffee Maker Type: Espresso Machine

• Capacity: 1000 ml

• Material: Plastic, Stainless Steel

• Weight: 9.5 pounds

• Wattage: 1100 watts

Features

• Compact, modern design that saves space on the counter.

• 15 bar pump for strong espresso extraction.

• Manual milk frother for cappuccino, latte, and flat white.

• Stainless steel boiler for long-lasting use.

• Portafilter with two filters for single or double shots.

• Two-level cup holder for different cup sizes.

What is the good?

This espresso machine is reliable for beginners. The 15 bar pump gives steady pressure for balanced flavor. The manual milk frother lets you practice making creamy foam. The design is compact, so it fits well in smaller kitchens. Cleaning is also simple because of its removable parts.

What is the bad?

The body is partly plastic, so it may not feel as premium as full stainless steel machines. It has fewer features compared to advanced espresso makers. The milk frother requires practice and may take time to master.

Overall Opinion

The De’Longhi 15 Bar Espresso Machine is a strong choice for people who want quality espresso without too many complex features. It is user-friendly, compact, and makes consistent shots, perfect for beginners or casual users.

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar

 

Product Details

• Brand: CASABREWS

• Color: A-Silver

• Dimensions: 12.28″D x 5.47″W x 11.97″H

• Special Feature: Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, Cappuccino and Latte Maker

• Coffee Maker Type: Espresso Machine

• Capacity: 34 oz (2.1 pounds of water)

• Material: Brushed Stainless Steel

• Weight: 8.6 pounds

• Wattage: 1350 watts

Features

• Semi-automatic 2-in-1 espresso maker.

• 20 bar Italian pump for stronger extraction.

• Built-in pressure gauge for brewing control.

• Powerful steam wand for creamy microfoam milk.

• Compact stainless steel body with a modern look.

• Removable 34 oz water tank for multiple servings.

• Includes filters, tamper with spoon, and clear instructions.

What is the good?

The 20 bar system produces strong pressure for a rich crema and bold taste. The pressure gauge helps you control the brewing process better. The design is stainless steel, making it stylish and durable. The detachable water tank is large enough for several cups at once. It is compact and easy to place on any kitchen counter.

What is the bad?

The machine needs time to cool down after milk frothing, which can slow your workflow. The strong 20 bar pressure may sometimes over-extract coffee if not used carefully. Beginners may need practice to get the perfect taste.

Overall Opinion

The CASABREWS 20 Bar Espresso Machine is a good fit for people who want more control and a stronger brew. It looks modern, comes with helpful tools, and delivers professional-style espresso. It is slightly more advanced compared to the De’Longhi 15 bar model.

Details Comparison for 15 Bar vs 20 Bar Espresso Machine

The De’Longhi 15 Bar Espresso Machine focuses on simplicity, while the CASABREWS 20 Bar Espresso Machine aims for stronger performance. Both can make espresso, cappuccino, and latte, but they handle pressure differently.

The De’Longhi uses 15 bars, which is enough for balanced espresso. The CASABREWS pushes it to 20 bars, creating stronger extraction and richer crema.

Still, higher pressure does not always mean better taste. Many baristas agree that 9–15 bars are enough for smooth espresso. Beyond that, flavor depends more on grind size, tamping, and beans.

In terms of build, the De’Longhi has some plastic parts, while the CASABREWS is mostly stainless steel.

Both machines are compact, but CASABREWS has a slimmer width and a larger removable tank. De’Longhi offers steady performance and is easier for beginners, while CASABREWS offers more control and a professional touch.

FAQs

Q1: Does higher bar pressure always make better espresso?
Not always. While higher pressure can give more crema, flavor depends on coffee beans, grind size, and brewing skill.

Q2: Which is better for beginners, 15 bar or 20 bar?
A 15 bar machine is easier to start with. It gives good results without needing too much adjustment.

Q3: Can both machines make cappuccino and latte?
Yes. Both come with milk frothers to make cappuccino, latte, and other milk-based drinks.

Q4: Do these machines need special coffee beans?
No, but using fresh espresso beans will improve taste and crema.

Q5: Which one lasts longer?
Both can last years with proper care. The stainless steel build of CASABREWS may feel more durable compared to De’Longhi’s plastic parts.

Conclusion

The choice between a 15 bar espresso machine and a 20 bar espresso machine depends on your needs. The De’Longhi 15 Bar Espresso Machine is simple, steady, and beginner-friendly.

The CASABREWS 20 Bar Espresso Machine is stylish, powerful, and offers more control. Both can make rich espresso, but the best one for you depends on how much control and strength you want in your daily cup.