Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, so do consumer choices. A variety of top-rated commercial machines, including top-of-the-line models, are now available to consumers as models for prosumers.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, yet do most of the work.
This model is ideal for those who sees espresso as an intense hobby and would like full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
This small beauty from Breville is a top-pick for a lot of espresso lovers. It has the right features to give you a perfect shot every time and isn't too complicated in its operation either. It's perfect for those looking to improve their coffee-making skills, but aren't yet ready to splurge on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion system and stepped up high-pressure extraction ensure that the beans are evenly pressed to ensure a balanced flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots by pressing of a button. This is extremely helpful to achieve consistently good results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system, which means you won't have to wait until it reaches 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 novice will be able to pull off a great shot with this espresso machine, due to the automatic steam wand. It has presets to create cappuccinos, latte, and other milk types and temperatures. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam you can get from a hands-on, professional-grade machine that requires modifying and plenty of practice, but it will still make a deliciously smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has an open reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also light and compact, making it easy to fit into small spaces. It also has a glass counter that is easy to clean, an important feature for those who have limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is definitely worth the extra price. It's simple to use, and comes with many great features. One of them is the auto-steam wand that will make milk froth for you. It's the perfect choice for anyone who would like an excellent coffee at home. Check to see if you're approved - earn up to 10% back in rewards1 and free shipping8 with a new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a prosumer espresso machine that doesn't cost too much and isn't too expensive, the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It has many features that you'd expect to find in the higher-end espresso machines, including an electronic PID that regulates the temperature within a few degrees. It also has a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating system for near-simultaneous steaming and making. It also has a number of energy efficiency features, such as an optional eco mode that automatically sets the machine in standby mode after a certain period of inactivity, and an insulated boiler as well as a short water path that helps reduce the loss of heat.
Additionally as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a professional-grade, high-quality portafilter that measures 58mm. This is a standard size that is used by the majority of commercial espresso machines, and helps to ensure that all of your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This, in turn, results in a more consistent and a better tasting espresso.
Another feature that makes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is its adjustable OPV valve. This gives you the ability to adjust the pressure exerted on your coffee grounds during extraction. You can play around with different methods and flavors. This is a great feature for coffee lovers, especially as many espresso machines are shipped out of the factory with the pressure set too high (the Rancilio Silvia springs to mind).
The Diletta Mio is easy to use for novices due to its easy-to-use interface. However, it also includes several advanced features that be appealing to more experienced home baristas. The PID display can be used as a shot-timer, permitting you to keep track of your shots without difficulty and ensure they're brewed perfectly. There are also lights on the brew and steam buttons to let you know when you have achieved enough pressure and temperature to allow the brewing and steaming.
In addition, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy this confirms its quality and workmanship. This machine will provide you with 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 top-quality espresso machines for home use. They also produce a few commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will show scores of reviewers drooling over it. However, I think it gets overshadowed by other models with more impressive features and a price tag that is higher.
The machine is equipped with two thermoblocks to ensure stable espresso extractions, as well as accurate milk foaming. The PID on this machine lets you alter the temperature of brewing in one-degree increments. This degree of precision is normally reserved for machines that cost a lot of money. It also has a display that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit rather than the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing change from the traditional digital display of most espresso machines at home, which uses blue digits.
Another feature that is great is the large, active cup warmer. The steam wand comes with an easy-to-use non-burn feature that automatically cleanses after every use. It can also be programmed to allow two pre-infusions so that you can control the amount of time the portafilter should be soaked prior to proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite some minor problems. The Ascaso's fast heat-up time and precise temperatures as well as quick heating ensure that your coffee will be made at the ideal temperature. Additionally, the programmable infusion allows you to perfect your shot-making technique.
I would Suggested Reading knock it down a few points for the included plastic tamper and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall this is an excellent choice for home espresso lovers. If you're willing to pay more then the Ascaso is definitely worth it because of its extra features and a premium appearance.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for a classic espresso machine that can give you the most value for your money then look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. The Silvia comes with 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.
The Silvia has a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to remove and clean as well as maintain. The Silvia has a removable water reservoir that can be filled when the machine is running, as well as an automatic shutoff feature and a temperature dial that ensures your drinks are at the right temperature for the ideal coffee experience.
The steam wand in this machine is commercial-grade and lets you create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will delight your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls can be simple to use and allow you to personalize your drink by choosing the desired extraction time and the temperature at which you want to brew. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting, and robust, which is the reason it has endured the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned Italian company that is proud of its quality and craftsmanship. They are in constant contact with their community of espresso lovers, listening to feedback and creating products that get the small things right.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be a replacement for moka pots if you're a barista. The main drawback to this machine is that it doesn't have an exchanger for heat, which means you will need to wait for a couple of minutes between making milk-based beverages.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests so that you can be certain that the machine will work safely. If you find there's an issue with your Silvia it comes with a one-year guarantee.