Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows, so do consumer options. Prosumer models of many commercial machines of the highest quality are now available for consumers.
These heavier systems require more precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, yet they do the majority of the work.
This model is designed for those who views espresso as an intense hobby and would like full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a favorite among espresso lovers. Coffeee got the features to make a fantastic shot every time and isn't too complicated to operate. It's perfect for those who want to improve their coffee-making abilities and don't want spend an enormous amount of money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion process, along with the high-pressure extraction, ensures that the ground beans will be evenly pressed to produce a balanced taste. You can also program different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots by pressing of a single button. This can be very beneficial to achieve consistently good results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system, which means you won't have to wait for it to get to the optimal temperature in the early morning. It's ready to use in just three seconds, which is much more efficient than other machines.
Even the most novice of users can pull off a perfect shot with this espresso machine due to the automatic steam wand. It can create a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, as well as presets for lattes, cappuccinos, and many more. It won't create the super-smooth microfoam that you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modding and plenty of practice however, it can produce a satisfyingly smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with a reservoir that is removable, making it easy to refill and clean. It's also light and compact which makes it easy to fit in small spaces. It also has a glass counter that is easy to clean, which is an important feature for those with small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than the other models, is worth the extra price. It's simple to use and has a variety of excellent features, including an automatic steam wand that can create froth for your milk. It's the perfect choice for anyone looking to make an excellent cup of coffee at home. Find out if you're approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 with the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great alternative if you're in the market for an inexpensive espresso maker for the home. It features many of the features you'd expect to find on an espresso machine that is more expensive, including a digital PID which controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also has an actual steam wand that is that is connected to its heating system to allow for near-simultaneous steaming and making. It comes with a variety of energy-saving features, including an eco mode, which will automatically shut off the machine after a certain period of inactivity.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industry-standard portafilter that measures 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and ensures that your espresso beans are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This, in turn, results in a more even and more delicious espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to alter the pressure that is applied on the coffee grounds during extraction. You can play around with different styles and flavors. This is a fantastic option for coffee lovers since many espresso machines are sold with a pressure that is too high.
The Diletta Mio is easy to use for beginners due to its easy-to-use interface. However, it has certain advanced features that will appeal to more experienced home baristas. For instance the PID display doubles as a shot timer to allow you to easily monitor your shots and ensure that they are brewed perfectly. The Steam and Brew buttons have lights that indicate when you've reached the right temperature and pressure to begin steaming or brewing.
Finally, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy, a fact that is a testimony to its high-end quality and workmanship. This is an appliance that will provide you with years of solid performance and reliable service, particularly when you maintain it properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso the Spanish manufacturer, is renowned for its outstanding espresso machines for homes. They also produce commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar. A quick YouTube search will show scores of reviewers swooning over it. However, I believe it gets overshadowed by other models with more impressive features and a price tag that is higher.
This machine comes with dual thermoblocks for reliable espresso extractions as well as precise milk foaming. The PID of this machine lets you adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments. This degree of precision is typically reserved for high-end machines. It also displays the temperature of the brew at the brew unit rather than the thermoblock or boiler. This is a welcome departure from the simple digital display that is common to espresso machines at home that use blue numbers.
It also comes with a large and actively heated cup warmer, which is a excellent feature. The steam wand features an easy-to-use feature that does not burn and automatically purges after every use. It can also be programmed for two pre-infusions which means you can program in the amount you want to soak the portafilter before proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite some minor issues. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up and precise temperature settings as well as its speedy heating ensure that your coffee will always be made at the ideal temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion allows you to perfect your shot-making technique.
I would give it a few points for the included plastic tamper and its shockingly low steam power, but overall this is an excellent option for espresso lovers who want to make their own. The Ascaso is worth the extra cost for its elegant design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
Rancilio Silvia is the perfect espresso machine for those seeking the most value for money. The Silvia has one boiler that can be used to brew and steamed coffee. It's easy to use, and comes in a variety colours to match the design of your home.
Silvia Silvia features a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to remove, clean and maintain. The Silvia comes with an ejector that can be filled when the machine is in use. It also has an automatic shutoff feature and a temperature dial to keep your drinks at the perfect temperature.
Finally, the steam wand in this machine is commercial grade and lets you make silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will delight your friends. The brewing control knobs on the Silvia are simple to comprehend, allowing you to select your desired extraction and brew time for a custom drink. The Silvia has proved to be reliable, durable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned company which is proud of their quality and craftsmanship. They stay in close contact with their community of espresso lovers, observing feedback and designing products that get the little details right.
This machine is ideal for those who are just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be an upgrade from moka pots if you're a barista. This machine does not have an exchanger for heat, so you will need to wait for some time between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth noting that the company puts each and every Silvia through a stringent series of tests, so you can be sure that your equipment is safe to operate. The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty if you find a problem.