Everything the M1 represents can be broken down to two words in its name: “super automatic.” It’s designed to handle every aspect of the drink-making process for you, from grinding your beans to foaming your milk. The result is consistent beverages across the board regardless of who’s making them.

Superautomatic Machine Type
The single most important feature of the M1 is its basic machine type, which is super automatic. There are three basic types for espresso machines: semiautomatic, automatic, and super automatic.

The difference between them is how much the machine will do for you. In a semiautomatic machine, for instance, baristas must grind the coffee beans, time the duration of the brew cycle, and froth milk. They are generally the most difficult type of espresso machine to master.

Automatic machines will end the brew cycle at the right time for you. Baristas must still grind beans and froth milk on their own.

Super automatic machines take care of the whole process for you. There are multiple benefits to this design.

For one thing, it can reduce the time you need to train new hires, since super automatics are so simple to use. Additionally, super automatic machines can eliminate inconsistencies in quality, as the machine is programmed to handle many aspects that would otherwise be susceptible to human error.

Read Also: Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines with Water Lines

Two-Step Design
Super automatic machines come in one- or two-step formats, which means that they’ll either do everything in one step or that you’ll be required to add the espresso to the frothed milk at the end, which adds a second step.

The M1 is a two-step machine, so your baristas will need to add the espresso to the milk or vice versa. Keep in mind that the machine still froths the milk for you.

If this sounds inconvenient, consider how it feels adding milk yourself. It’s a much more tactile sensation than just waiting for the drink to be built, which helps keep your employees feeling invested in the process.

Furthermore, two-step machines tend to be slightly more affordable than one-step machines.

Single-Group
An espresso machine’s group head is where the espresso dispenses. The number of groups a machine has will therefore limit the amount of espresso you can brew at one time.

The La Cimbali M1 is a single-group machine. Because of this, the most espresso it can brew simultaneously is two shots.

This might not be a problem for your establishment, especially when you factor in the time your employees save simply by virtue of using a super automatic. They won’t have to time shots or froth milk themselves, so they can multitask while the machine works, increasing their output and keeping customers happy.

Related Article: Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines for Offices

Drink Menu
All super automatic espresso machines have a range of beverages that they can make. Drink menus can vary from machine to machine, so this is a vital thing to consider before you buy.

The M1 supports eight different drinks: espresso, cappuccino, café crème, Americano, caffe latte, latte, double espresso, and cappuccino with a double shot. These drinks cover the basics for what is offered in your standard coffee shop.

You can easily make modifications to the flavor by adding your own flavor syrups afterward. Similarly, you can pour the drinks over ice to make an iced version.

Compact Size
Many espresso machines are hulking behemoths that need more than a little counter space. One of the best things about the La Cimbali M1 is that this isn’t a problem for it.

It measures at 13.8 inches wide, 24.4 inches deep, and 32.5 inches high. While it won’t fit under your average cabinet, it still is a pretty petite machine.

Remember that it combines the functions of both an espresso machin