Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, so do consumer options. Many top-rated commercial machines, including top-of-the-line models, are now accessible to customers as models for prosumers.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, but they do the majority of the work.
This model is ideal for those who views espresso as an intense hobby and would like complete control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a favorite among coffee enthusiasts. It has the right features to make a fantastic shot every time and isn't too complicated to operate. It's perfect for those looking to improve their coffee making skills but aren't quite ready to spend the money on the top of the line commercial equipment.
The low-pressure pre-infusion process, along with the high pressure extraction guarantees that the beans will be evenly pressed to produce an even flavor. You can also program distinct output volumes for two shots and one at the touch of a button, which is extremely beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This 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 a lot faster than other models.
Even the most novice of users will have no trouble pulling a great shot using this espresso machine due to the automatic steam wand. It comes with presets for cappuccinos, latte, as well as other milk textures and temperatures. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam that you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires tweaking and lots of practice. But it can make an incredibly smooth and creamy latte or a cappuccino.
This model comes with a removable reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It is also compact and lightweight making it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It has a glass top that is easy to clean, an important aspect for those who have little counter space.
While it's a little bit more expensive than other models but the Bambino Plus is worth the extra cost. It's easy to use and has a variety of great features, including an automatic steam wand that will make your milk frothy for you. It's the ideal choice for anyone who wants a great cup of coffee at home. Find out if your approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 along with free shipping8 when you purchase the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great option if you're looking for a low-cost espresso maker for the home. It has many features that you'd expect to see in an espresso machine that is more expensive such as a digital PID which controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also has an insulated steam wand, which is that is connected to its own heating system that allows for simultaneous steaming and making. It comes with a variety of energy-saving features, including an eco mode that automatically shuts off the machine after a set period of inactivity.
Additionally As an added bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a high-quality professional-grade portafilter that measures 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and helps ensure that your espresso beans are evenly spread during 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 fine-tune the pressure exerted on your grounds during extraction which allows you to play with different flavor profiles and techniques. This is a great option for those who love coffee, as many espresso machines are sold with pressures that are too high.
The Diletta Mio has a simple user interface that is easy for new users to use. However, it also has some advanced features that will be appealing to baristas with more experience in the home. The PID display can be used as a shot-timer permitting you to keep track of your shots with ease and ensure they're made to perfection. There are also lights on the brew and steam buttons to inform you when you have built up enough pressure and temperature to allow brewing and steaming.
Finally, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy this confirms its quality and workmanship. This machine will provide you with years of solid performance and reliability particularly if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for making excellent espresso machines for home use and even a few commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will reveal dozens of reviewers swooning over it. However, I think it gets overshadowed by other machines with more impressive feature-sets and higher prices.
This machine features dual thermoblocks that ensure stable espresso extractions as well as precise milk frothing. The PID in this machine allows you to adjust brewing temperatures in one-degree increments. This degree of precision is normally reserved for high-end machines. 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 welcome departure from the standard digital display on most espresso machines at home which use blue numbers.
It also comes with a large and actively heated cup warmer, which is another excellent feature. The steam wand is simple to use and has an auto-purge feature that doesn't burn after every use. It can also be programmed for two pre-infusions which means you can program the amount you want to let the portafilter soak before beginning the extraction.
While the Ascaso has a few minor issues, overall it's an excellent espresso machine. Its fast heat-up time and precise in the know temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always made at the right temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion will help you improve your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper included and the surprisingly low power of steam are two things that I would criticize, but this is an excellent option for those who love espresso at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra cost for its elegant design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is the ideal espresso machine for those who want the best bang-for-your-buck. The Silvia has a single boiler for brewing and steaming coffee. It is simple to use, and comes in a variety of colours to match the design of your home.
The Silvia also features a stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are simple to remove and clean. This machine comes with an adjustable water reservoir that can be topped off when the machine is in operation, as well as an automatic shutoff function as well as an adjustable temperature dial that ensures your drinks are at the right temperature to provide the best coffee experience.
Finally, the steam wand on this machine is commercial-grade and lets you create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your friends. The control knobs for brewing on the Silvia are simple to comprehend, allowing you to select the 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 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 customers, and are open to feedback. They create products that are perfected through the smallest of aspects.
This machine is a great option for those who are just starting their journey into making espresso at home, but it can also be a solid upgrade from an old moka pot under the guidance of a barista who is skilled. This machine does not have a heat-exchanger, which means you'll have to wait a few minutes between making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests so that you can be sure that your machine will operate safely. If you find there is any issue with your Silvia it comes with one-year warranties.