Starbucks uses a machine called Mastrena. It is a brand that was developed exclusively for Starbucks by a Swiss company called Thermoplan AG. Starbucks uses super automatic machines that have built in grinders and a computerized menu that make the espresso making process as easy and quick as possible. The cost of a Starbucks espresso machine is around $18,000. Starbucks espresso machines are designed around ease of use and rapid production of drinks, not as much around drink quality. For this reason if you are a specialty coffee shop, focusing on artisan drinks is a good way to compete with Starbucks. If you are a home user, most people can pretty easily get better results than Starbucks with good quality coffee beans, some barista skills practice, a good espresso grinder (more important than the espresso machine) and a good espresso machine.
