Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows so do consumer choices. Prosumer models of many commercial machines are currently available to consumers.
These heavier systems require greater precision from the user for grinding or tamping as well as extraction time, but do the majority of the work.
This model is designed for those who enjoy espresso as a pastime and want complete control over the process of brewing.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a favorite among espresso enthusiasts. It's got the features to deliver a great shot every time and isn't overly complicated to use. It's a great choice for those looking to improve their coffee-making skills but aren't quite ready to splurge on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, combined with the high-pressure extraction ensures that the ground beans are evenly pressed to produce an even taste. You can also program distinct output volumes for two shots and one with the click of an button, which can be extremely beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This means you won't have to wait around for it to reach the optimal temperature in the early morning. It will be hot and ready to go in only three seconds which is significantly faster than other models.
Even the most novice of users will have no trouble pulling an excellent shot with this espresso machine because of the steam-powered automatic wand. It can produce a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, along with presets for cappuccinos and lattes and more. It won't produce the super-smooth, microfoam you get with an actual professional-grade machine which requires modifying and a lot of practice. But it can create an incredibly smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has a removable water reservoir, which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also light and compact, which helps it fit nicely into tight spaces. It also has a glass lid that is easy to keep clean, which is another important aspect for those who have a small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra price. It's simple to use and comes with numerous great features. One of them is the auto-steam wand that will froth milk for you. This is the ideal choice for anyone looking to make a fantastic cup at home. See if you're pre-approved - earn up to 10% back in rewards1 + free shipping8 today by using a new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're in the market for a professional espresso machine that doesn't cost too much, the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It comes with numerous of the essential features you would expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, such as an electronic PID that regulates the temperature to just a few degrees and a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit for fast steaming and brewing at the same time. It has many energy-saving features, including an eco mode, which automatically turns the machine off after a certain period of inactivity.
As an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a high-quality professional-grade 58mm portafilter. This is a standard size used by most commercial espresso machines, and it helps to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This is a result in a more consistent and more delicious espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This lets you fine-tune the pressure that is exerted on your coffee during extraction which allows you to play with various flavors and techniques. This is a fantastic option for coffee lovers since many espresso machines are shipped with a pressure that is too high.
The Diletta Mio has a simple user interface that is easy for beginners to use. However, it also has certain advanced features that will appeal to more experienced baristas at home. The PID display can also be used as a shot-timer, which allows you to track your shots with ease and ensure that they are made to perfection. There are also lights in the area next to the brew and steam buttons to inform you that you have created enough pressure and temperature for steaming and brewing.
In addition, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy, a fact that is a testimony to its high-end quality and workmanship. This machine can provide years of reliable service and solid performance particularly if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer, is renowned for its exceptional espresso machines for homes. They also make commercial models. A quick YouTube search will reveal that dozens of reviewers are drooling over the Steel Duo PID. However, I believe it's overshadowed by models that have more advanced features and higher prices.
This machine comes with dual thermoblocks for stable espresso extractions cheap espresso machine and accurate milk frothing. The PID lets you alter the temperature of the brewing in one degree increments, a degree of precision normally reserved for higher-end machines. It also has a display that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit, rather than the boiler or thermoblock. This is a welcome change from most espresso machines in the home that rely on a simple digital display with blue numerals.
It also comes with a large, active heated cup warmer, which is a excellent feature. Its steam wand has an easy-to-use feature that does not burn and automatically purges after every use. It is also programmable to allow for two pre-infusions, which means that you can set the time for which the portafilter should be soaked prior to proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite a few minor issues. The Ascaso's quick heat-up time and precise temperature settings as well as its speedy heating ensure that your coffee will be brewed at the right temperature. Plus, the programmable pre-infusion helps you to improve your shot-making abilities.
I would slash it down one point for the included plastic tamper and its surprising low steam power, but overall this is a great option for espresso lovers who want to make their own. If you're willing some more then the Ascaso is definitely worth it because of its extra features and premium look.
The Rancilio Silvia
Rancilio Silvia is the perfect espresso machine for those looking for the best bang-for-your-buck. The Silvia has a single boiler for brewing and steamed coffee. It's easy to use and comes in a variety colors to match the aesthetic of your home.
The Silvia also features stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are simple to remove and clean. This machine has a water reservoir that is removable and can be filled up when the machine is running, as well as an automatic shutoff function and the temperature dial, which keeps your drinks at the perfect temperature to provide the best coffee experience.
The steam wand comes in commercial quality and allows you to create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your guests. The control knobs for brewing on the Silvia are simple to understand and allow you to choose your desired extraction and the time of brewing for a custom drink. The Silvia has been proven to be reliable, durable and long-lasting since its 1997 release.
Rancilio is a family-owned business that takes pride in their craftsmanship and quality. They stay always in touch with their community, and are open to feedback. They develop products that are perfected through the small aspects.
This machine is an ideal option for those just starting their journey into making espresso at home, but it could also be a good upgrade over a moka pot in the hands of a professional barista. The machine doesn't have a heat-exchanger, which means you'll need to wait for several minutes between making milk-based drinks.
It is also important to note that the company puts every Silvia through a stringent series of tests, so that you can be sure that the machine is safe to operate. The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty if you discover an issue.