SEATTLE, Nov. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- The team at Seattle Coffee Gear has determined an annual savings of up to $1948.68 in the first year by analyzing three different classes of espresso machines and balancing it against the cost of the average American's daily coffee consumption.

To begin the analysis, the team tested a wide selection of home espresso machines and scored them on a scale of 1 - 5 in the following categories: Quality of espresso shot, quality of steamed milk, ease of use, build quality, design & functionality and the overall value for the money. They then took the best performing semi-automatics and super-automatics and divided them into three price point levels, identifying a Good, Better and Best replacement option. Lastly, they analyzed the annual savings by comparing the cost of the espresso machines and average cost of coffee and milk to make a drink at home ($.44/cup or $513.92/year) with the average annualized spending on coffee, $2,861.92 (based on the average cost of an espresso drink of $2.45 and number of coffee drinks per day of 3.2).

The 'Good' options were identified as the Ascaso Basic and Capresso Infinity grinder combination for the semi-automatic solution ($399) or the Saeco Odea Giro for the super-automatic solution ($699). These models were selected as the highest performers at an entry-level price point. A coffee drinker can save between $1603.68 and $1948.68 by selecting one of these options.

Next, the 'Better' category features the Rancilio Silvia and Rocky Doser grinder combination for the semi-automatic option ($1079) and the Jura Ena 3 for the super-automatic option ($899). The team chose these machines because of their mid-level price point, more available features, improved quality of espresso and steamed milk. By purchasing one of these machines, a consumer can save between $1268.68 and $1448.68 per year.

Finally, the 'Best' models were determined as the Rocket Giotto and Macap Doser grinder combination for the semi-automatic choice ($2248) and the Saeco Talea Touch for the super-automatic ($2099). These machines were chosen from the mid- to high-level price range and have the most features, are incredibly easy to use and customize and produce the very best espresso and steamed milk. If a coffee enthusiast invested in one of these, they would save between $99.68 and $248.68 per year. While the savings on the Best models are significantly less than the savings seen in the Good or Better classes, these machines have excellent longevity and warranties, possibly resulting in an overall savings throughout the lifetime of the machine.

"In these tight economic times, we're all looking for a few ways to trim our budgets," remarks Victor Gehlen, founder of Seattle Coffee Gear. "Coffee is such an important part of American culture and daily espresso is a treat most folks just aren't willing to give up. By investing in a machine at home, however, they can easily make excellent coffee at a significantly reduced price."

ABOUT SEATTLE COFFEE GEAR

Seattle Coffee Gear was founded in 2005 with the singular goal of helping you make a better cup of coffee. Whether you shop in our Lynnwood, WA, location or our online store, we offer a diverse selection of espresso machines, coffee makers and related accessories backed by unbiased, frank and expert advice. Featured manufacturers include Jura Capresso, Saeco, Gaggia, Quick Mill, Ascaso, DeLonghi and Rocket. For more information, please visit http://www.seattlecoffeegear.com