Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows as do the options for consumers. Prosumer models of several commercial machines are now available for customers.
These larger systems require greater precision from the user in grinding or tamping as well as extraction time, but do the majority of the work.
This model is ideal for those who sees espresso as a serious hobby and wants complete control over the espresso process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a favorite among espresso enthusiasts. It's simple to use and has all the features you require to make a perfect espresso shot every time. It's ideal for those who wish to improve their coffee making skills but aren't quite ready to spend the money on an expensive commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion and stepped up high-pressure extraction ensure that the ground beans are evenly crushed for a balanced flavor. 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 ensure consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating system, which lets it heat up quickly in the morning. It will be ready to use in only three seconds which is significantly faster than other machines.
The automatic steam wand can make it simple for even the most novice users to make a amazing shot. It can produce a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, as well as presets for lattes, cappuccinos, and more. It won't produce the super-smooth microfoam you can get from an actual professional-grade machine which requires tweaking and lots of practice. But it can produce a smooth, creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with a reservoir that is removable, making it easy to refill and clean. It is also lightweight and compact, making it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It also has a glass lid that's easy to keep clean, which is another important feature for those with a limited 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 numerous great features. One of them is the auto-steam wand, which will froth milk automatically. It's the ideal choice for anyone looking to make the perfect cup of espresso at home. Check to see if you're approved - earn up to 10% back in rewards1 + free shipping8 with the new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a high-end espresso machine that doesn't cost too much, the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It includes numerous of the essential features you'd expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, such as an electronic PID that regulates the temperature to within a few degrees and a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit for simultaneous steaming and brewing. It is equipped with many energy-saving features, such as an eco mode, which automatically turns the machine off after a certain period of inactivity.
The Diletta Mio also comes with a professional-grade portafilter of 58mm. This is a standard size used by most commercial espresso machines, and it helps to ensure that all of your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This means you get a better tasting and more evenly distributed espresso.
Another characteristic that sets the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is the adjustable OPV valve. This allows you to adjust the pressure exerted on the coffee grounds during extraction. You can experiment with different styles and flavors. This this content is a fantastic feature for coffee lovers particularly since many espresso machines are shipped out of the factory with the pressure set too high (the Rancilio Silvia springs to mind).
The Diletta Mio has a simple user interface that is easy for new users to use. It also has some advanced features which will attract 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 are made to perfection. The brew and steam buttons are lit up to indicate when you've reached the right temperature and pressure for steaming or brewing.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This is a testimony to its quality and workmanship. This machine will give you years of reliable service and solid performance particularly if it's well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso, a Spanish manufacturer, is renowned for its top-quality espresso machines for homes. They also produce a few commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that a lot of reviewers are drooling at the Steel Duo PID. However, I believe it's overshadowed by machines with more impressive feature-sets and a price tag that is higher.
This machine is equipped with two thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk foaming. The PID on this machine lets you adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments. This level of precision is usually reserved for machines that cost a lot of money. It also displays the brew temperatures at the brew unit, not the boiler or thermoblock. This is a refreshing change from the standard digital display on most espresso machines at home that use blue digits.
Another feature that is great is the large, active heated cup warmer. Its steam wand is easy to use and comes with a non-burn feature that automatically purges after each use. It's also programmable for two pre-infusions which means you can program in the desired amount of time to soak the portafilter before proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite some minor problems. The Ascaso's fast heat-up time, precise temperatures and fast heating ensure that your coffee will be made at the ideal temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion will help you improve your shot-making technique.
The plastic tamper and the surprising low power of steam are two points that I would criticize, but this is an excellent choice for those who love espresso at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra cost for its stylish design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for an old-fashioned espresso machine that gives you the most value for your money, look at the Rancilio Silvia. It has a single boiler which is heated for brewing and steaming the Silvia is simple to use and comes in a variety of colors to complement your home's aesthetic.
Silvia Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to take off and clean, as well as maintain. The Silvia has an adjustable reservoir that can be filled when the machine is in use. It also has an automatic shutoff function and a temperature dial that will ensure that your drinks are at the right temperature.
Lastly, the steam wand that comes with this machine is commercial grade and lets you create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls are simple to operate and let you customize your drink by selecting the desired extraction time and the temperature of brewing. The Silvia has proven to be durable, reliable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned company which is proud of their quality and craftsmanship. They stay constantly in contact with their community, and take feedback. They develop products that are refined by the small little details.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning to make espresso at home. It can also be an upgrade from moka pots if you're a barista. The main drawback to this machine is that it doesn't have an exchanger, so you'll have to wait a few minutes before making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through an extensive series of tests so that you can be sure that your machine will operate safely. If you do find that there's any issue with your Silvia, the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty.