Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands as do the options for consumers. Prosumer models of many commercial machines of the highest quality are now available for consumers.
These heftier systems demand greater precision from the user to ensure grinding and tamping, as well as extraction time, but do the majority of the work for you.
This model is designed for those who use espresso as a hobby and want to have full control over the process of brewing.
The Bambino Plus
This tiny beauty from Breville is a top choice for a lot of espresso lovers. It's easy to use and comes with all the features you require to get a great espresso shot every time. It's perfect for those looking to improve their coffee-making abilities but aren't ready to invest in an expensive commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, combined with the high pressure extraction guarantees that the beans will be evenly pressed to produce a balanced taste. You can also program different output volumes for one and two-shots with the click of the button, which is extremely beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system, which means you don't need to wait around for it to reach the optimal temperature in the early morning. It will be hot and ready to go in less than three seconds, which is a lot quicker than most other machines.
The steam wand's automatic feature will make it easy for even the most novice users to make a amazing shot. It has presets to create cappuccinos, latte, as well as other milk-based textures and temperatures. It's not able to produce the silky microfoam you can get from an actual professional-grade machine which requires tweaking and lots of practice. But it will still produce a smooth, creamy latte or a cappuccino.
This model comes with a water reservoir that is removable that makes it simple to clean and refill. It's also very lightweight and compact, which helps it to fit well in tight spaces. It also has a glass lid that's easy to keep clean, which is an important aspect for those with a limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra cost. It's simple to use, and comes with numerous great features. One of it is the auto-steam wand, which will make milk froth for you. It's the perfect option for anyone who would like the perfect coffee at home. See if you're pre-approved - earn up to 10% in rewards1 + free shipping8 today by using a new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a professional espresso machine that won't cost too much and isn't too expensive, the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It has many of the features you'd expect to find in a more expensive espresso machine, including an electronic PID that regulates the temperature to just a few degrees and an insulated steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit for fast steaming and brewing at the same time. It also has a number of energy-saving features, like an eco mode that automatically puts the machine into standby after a certain timer, and an insulated boiler and a short water path that help to reduce heat loss.
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 your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This results in a better-tasting and more evenly distributed espresso.
Another characteristic that makes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is the adjustable OPV valve. This allows you to fine-tune the pressure exerted on your grounds during extraction and allows you to experiment with different flavors and techniques. This is an excellent feature for coffee enthusiasts especially since a lot of espresso machines leave 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. It also has advanced features which will be appealing to experienced baristas at home. The PID display can be used as a shot timer, which allows you to track your shots with ease and ensure they're made to perfection. There are lights next to the steam and brew buttons to notify you that you have created enough pressure and temperature for brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio is made in Italy, a fact that speaks to its quality and craftsmanship. This is an item that will give you years of reliable performance and reliable service, especially when you maintain it properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer, is known for its top-quality espresso machines for home use. They also make a few commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that many reviewers are drooling at the Steel Duo PID. However, I think it's overshadowed by models that have more advanced features and higher prices.
This machine comes with two thermoblocks to ensure stable espresso extractions and accurate milk foaming. Its PID allows you to adjust the brewing temperature in one degree increments, a level of precision usually reserved for more expensive machines. It also has a display that displays the temperature of the brew in the brew unit, not the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing change from the standard digital display on most espresso machines in the home which use blue digits.
It also comes with a large, active heated cup warmer, which is another excellent feature. machines espresso machines has an easy-to-use feature that does not burn and automatically purges after each use. It can also be programmed for two sets of pre-infusion, so you can program in the desired amount of time to soak the portafilter prior to beginning the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite some minor issues. Its quick heating time and precise temperatures ensure your coffee is always at the perfect temperature. Additionally, the pre-infusion programable helps you to improve your shot-making abilities.
I would slash it down a few points for the included plastic tamper and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall it is an excellent option for those who love home espresso. If you're willing to pay more then the Ascaso is well worth it because of its extra features and a premium appearance.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking to buy a classic espresso machine that can give you the best bang for your buck Look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. The Silvia features an individual boiler to make and steaming coffee. It's easy to use, and comes in a variety of colors to match the aesthetic of your home.
The Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to take off and clean, as well as maintain. This machine has a water reservoir that is removable and can be filled up when the machine is in operation and also has an automatic shutoff function as well as an adjustable temperature dial that keeps your drinks at the right temperature to provide the best coffee experience.
Lastly, the steam wand in this machine is commercial-grade and allows you to create silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will surely 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 brew temperature. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting, and robust, which is the reason it has been able to stand the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned business that is proud of their quality and craftsmanship. They are constantly in contact with their community, and take feedback. They design products that are perfected through the smallest of aspects.
This machine is an excellent option for those just beginning their journey in making espresso at home. However, it can also be a good upgrade to an old moka maker under the supervision of a barista who is skilled. The biggest drawback of this machine is that it does not have an exchanger, so you'll need to wait a few 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 function safely. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty if you discover any issues.