Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, as do the options for consumers. Prosumer models of a variety of high-end commercial machines currently available to consumers.
These heftier systems demand greater precision from the user in grinding and tamping, as well as extraction time, but do most of the work.
This model is designed for those who views espresso as a serious hobby and wants complete control over the espresso process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a cult favorite for espresso lovers. It's user-friendly and comes with all the features you require to ensure a top espresso shot every time. It's perfect for those who want to improve their coffee making abilities but aren't ready to spend the money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, when combined with the high pressure extraction guarantees that the beans are evenly pressed to produce a balanced taste. You can also set different output volumes for two shots and one-shots at the touch of a button. This is very helpful to achieve consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating technology, which allows it to rapidly heat up in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in only three seconds, which is a lot quicker than most other machines.
The automatic steam wand makes it easy for even the most novice users to make a amazing shot. It can create a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, along with presets for cappuccinos, lattes, and much more. It won't produce the super-smooth microfoam you can get from an actual professional-grade machine which requires modding and a lot of practice. But it will still produce a smooth, creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has an adjustable water reservoir that makes it simple to clean and refill. It's also light and compact, which helps it fit easily into tight spaces. It also has an easy-to-clean glass lid to keep clean, which is an important aspect for those with a limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra cost. It's easy to use, and has numerous great features. One of it is the auto-steam wand that will make milk froth for you. This is the perfect choice for anyone looking to make a delicious cup at home. Find out if your pre-approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 with a Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great option if you're looking for a low-cost prosumer espresso maker. It has many of the features you would expect to find in a more expensive espresso machine, such as a digital PID that controls the temperature to within a few degrees and an insulated steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit for simultaneous steaming and brewing. It also comes with a variety of energy-saving features, such as an optional eco mode that automatically sets the machine in standby mode after a set period of inactivity, and an insulated boiler as well as a short water path that helps reduce heat loss.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industrial-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines, and it helps ensure that your beans are evenly distributed during extraction. This results in a more delicious and more evenly-distributed espresso.
Another thing that sets the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is its adjustable OPV valve. This allows you the ability to alter the pressure that is applied 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 leave the factory with the pressure set too high (the Rancilio Silvia springs to mind).
The Diletta Mio is easy to use for beginners thanks to its simple interface. It also has advanced features which will be appealing to experienced baristas at home. For instance the PID display doubles as a shot timer to enable you to easily track your shots and make sure that they are brewed to perfection. There are also lights next to the brew and steam buttons to inform you when you have achieved enough pressure and temperature to allow the brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio is made in Italy which is a testimony to its high-end quality and workmanship. 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 that is known for its production of an impressive espresso machine for home use and even a couple of commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will reveal dozens of reviewers swooning over it. I do think that it's being overshadowed by other models that have more impressive features and a higher cost.
This machine features dual thermoblocks to ensure stable espresso extractions, as well as precise milk frothing. 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 high-end machines. It also features a display that displays the temperature of brewing at the brew unit, rather than the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing change from the traditional digital display that is common to espresso machines in the home, which uses blue digits.
It also comes with a large, active heated cup warmer, which is a excellent feature. The steam wand comes with an easy-to-use non-burn feature that automatically cleanses after each use. It's also programmable to allow two pre-infusion sets that allows you to program the time you'd like to soak the portafilter prior to continuing with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite some minor issues. Its rapid heating process and precise temperatures ensure that your coffee is always made at the optimal temperature. Plus, the programmable pre-infusion helps you to improve your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper that comes with it and the surprising low power of steam are two things that I would criticize, but this is an excellent option for coffee lovers at home. If you're willing a little more, 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 will give you the most value for your money, look at the Rancilio Silvia. The Silvia features an individual boiler view it now to make and steamed coffee. It is easy to use, and comes in a variety of colors to match the aesthetic of your home.
The Silvia features a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to take off and clean, as well as maintain. This machine comes with a water reservoir that is removable and can be filled up when the machine is in operation and also has an automatic shutoff function and an adjustable temperature dial that ensures your drinks are at the right temperature to provide the best coffee experience.
The steam wand is commercial quality and will allow you to create silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your guests. The controls for brewing on the Silvia are simple to understand and allow you to choose your desired extraction as well as brew time for a custom drink. The Silvia has proven to be durable, reliable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.
Rancilio is an Italian family-owned business that takes pride in its craftsmanship and quality. They stay in close contact with their espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and developing products that get the smallest things right.
This machine is an excellent option for those who are just beginning their journey in making espresso at home, but it could also be a good upgrade over a moka pot under the guidance of a barista who is skilled. The machine isn't equipped with a heat-exchanger, which means you'll need to wait for some time between making milk-based drinks.
It is also important to note that the company puts each and every Silvia through a rigorous series of tests so that you can be certain that the machine is safe to operate. The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty in the event of a problem.