Different types of group heads: complete guide to help you choose the right espresso machine

When choosing an espresso machine, the group head is one of the most important components to consider. It plays a key role in coffee extraction, directly influencing the result in the cup. This is where water meets coffee, the right pressure is generated, and espresso comes to life.

There are various types of group heads, each with unique characteristics that impact thermal stability, water flow and extraction control. In this article, we’ll explore at the most popular ones without getting too technical: the Ring Brew Group, E61, Lever and Saturated group. 

E61 Group Head: the classic of Italian tradition 

The E61 group is one of the most iconic and recognizable components in the espresso world, thanks to its distinctive shape protruding from the machine. Introduced by Faema in 1961, it remains highly regarded for its thermal stability and mechanical pre-infusion.

Although the E61 unit takes longer to reach extraction temperature (up to 20 minutes), it excels at heat retention thanks to its thermosyphonic circulation system and brass. This superior thermal stability ensures consistent and balanced extractions, which is ideal for those seeking a true barista experience with even and balanced extractions. 

Finally, due to its popularity and long history, there is a wide availability of spare parts, which results in much easier maintenance for those who choose a machine with an E61 group. 

Among the machines with E61 group, we recommend: 

Rocket Appartamento TCA - Developed from the iconic Rocket Appartamento, the new Appartamento TCA version features Temperature Control Adjustment, a system that allows users to choose from 4 temperature presets. 

Lelit Bianca - Double boiler espresso machine equipped with flow control paddle, perfect for those who want to customize each extraction. 

ECM Synchronika II - Brand new from ECM, Synchronika II is a double boiler machine with a rapid heating system: the unit reaches the ideal temperature for extraction in less than 7 minutes. 

Ring Brew Group: compact and efficient 

The Ring Brew Group is a modern, more compact alternative to the E61. Among the groups listed in this article, it is undoubtedly the one which heats up the most rapidly. It has a very simple design and uses a 3-way valve to release excess pressure after extraction.

Although it is not the best choice in terms of thermal stability, it is more cost-effective to manufacture than other group types, and this is reflected in lower machine cost as well. 

Recommended machines with Ring Brew Group: 

Profitec Go - A compact and sleek choice, perfect for those who want to start with great espresso. 

Rancilio Silvia V6 - A classic in the world of home machines, synonymous with reliability and quality construction. 

Profitec Move - One of the latest entries in Profitec, with a modern design and a group designed to ensure stability and ease of use. 

Saturated group: precision and total control 

First introduced by La Marzocco in 1970 in the first GS machine (named after the initials “Gruppo Saturo” italian for Saturated Group), the saturated group is used in the most advanced and professional espresso machines, offering exceptional thermal stability.

Unlike traditional group heads, it is not a separate component but an extension of the coffee boiler itself. Water continuously circulates through the group, maintaining a consistent temperature shot after shot. 

To achieve this level of performance, the saturated group requires a more complex design, which is why machines equipped with this system tend to be more expensive. 

Exceptional thermal stability makes the saturated group head particularly popular among commercial machines but it can also be found in domestic models such as: 

La Marzocco GS3 - We could not but recommend the GS3, an evolution of the GS, the first machine with a saturated group. It is a professional-level espresso machine with two boilers, used by both experienced home baristas and small venues. 

Rocket R Nine One - Advanced technology with PID control and programmable pre-infusion. 

Slayer - The ultimate in customization with water flow control paddle, perfect for those who want to experiment with unique extractions. 

Lever Group: the allure of traditional espresso 

Lever espresso machines represent the essence of traditional espresso, offering a unique experience thanks to complete manual control over the extraction pressure.

Developed in 1938 by Achille Gaggia, this type of group operates without a pump to generate pressure. Instead, water is forced through the coffee by the pressure exerted manually via a lever, resulting in a smoother extraction and a rich flavuor profile. This system ensures a natural pre-infusion, which helps achieve coffee with full body and a thick crema.

Lever machines are particularly prized for their iconic design, handcrafted construction, and the ability to customize each extraction. 

At the same time, these machines need more practice to achieve the ideal extraction profile for one's taste. Also, for some models, in order to relieve the pressure generated during extraction and to be able to remove the filter holder, you have to wait a few minutes, which does not always make them suitable for today's busy life. 

Recommended machines with lever unit: 

Profitec Pro 800 - With elegant wooden accents, this machine is perfect for those seeking manual extraction with high-quality components and a modern design. 

La Pavoni Models - Esperto, Stradivari, Milano, Expo... all of La Pavoni's espresso machine models bring a historic and charming touch to any coffee station and are ideal for those who want to approach the world of lever machines with a vintage style. 

Spiritello by Kees van der Westen - a standout among espresso machines, Spiritello combines the timeless appeal of lever brewing with the latest technology and a unique design that is recognizable at a glance. 

Which to choose? 

The choice of group head depends on one's needs and the level of customization desired.

If you want a classic design and great thermal stability, the E61 group is an ideal choice.

For those looking for speed and compactness with a lower cost, the Ring Brew Group offers an excellent alternative.

If, on the other hand, you want maximum control over your extraction, the Saturated Group is the perfect solution for professional results.

For vintage and timeless design lovers who want to carve out their own time to extract espresso manually, then the lever group is the right choice. 

Check out all these machines and more at Espresso Coffee Shop and find the one that best suits your needs!