Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of many high-end commercial machines can now be purchased by consumers.
These heftier systems demand greater precision from the user in grinding and tamping, as well as extraction time, but they do much of the work.
This model is for someone who considers espresso to be an intense hobby and would like complete control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
This little beauty is made by Breville is a top-pick for many coffee lovers. It has the right features to make a fantastic shot every time and isn't overly complicated in its operation either. It's a great choice for those looking to improve their coffee-making abilities but aren't ready to spend the money on the top of the line commercial equipment.
Its low pressure pre-infusion and the accelerated high-pressure extraction will ensure that the ground beans are evenly crushed for a balanced flavor. You can also program different output quantities for two and one-shots with the click of the button, which is very helpful for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating technology, which allows it to rapidly heat up in the morning. It'll be ready for use in just three second which is significantly quicker than other models.
Even the most novice of users can pull off a perfect shot using this espresso machine thanks to the automatic steam wand. It is able to create a broad range of milk temperatures and textures, along with presets for cappuccinos and lattes and much more. It won't create the super-smooth microfoam that you get from a hands-on, professional-grade machine that requires modifying and a lot of practice however, it can create a smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with an open reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also very lightweight and compact, which makes it fit easily in tight spaces. It also has a glass top that is easy to clean, another important feature for those who have limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra cost. It's simple to use and comes with excellent features, including a convenient auto-steam tool that can make your milk frothy for you. It's the perfect choice for anyone who would like a great cup of coffee at home. Check if you're pre-approved. earn up to 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 today with the brand new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're in the market for a professional espresso machine that doesn't cost too much then the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It includes many of the key features you'd expect to find in a more expensive espresso machine, including a digital PID that controls the temperature to within a few degrees, and an actual steam wand which is connected to its own heating circuit for fast steaming and brewing at the same time. It has many energy-saving features, including 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 the standard size used by commercial espresso machines, and it helps ensure that your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This means you get a better tasting and evenly-distributed espresso.
Another thing that sets the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is its adjustable OPV valve. This allows you to adjust the pressure exerted on your grounds during extraction, allowing you to experiment 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 novices due to its easy-to-use interface. It also has advanced features which will attract experienced home baristas. For example, the PID display doubles as a shot timer to enable you to easily track your shots and ensure that they are brewed to perfection. The brew and Steam buttons have lights that inform you when you've reached the proper temperature and pressure for brewing or steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its high-end quality and workmanship. This is an item that will provide you with years of solid performance and reliable service, especially when it is maintained properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for making excellent espresso machines for home use and even a couple of commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that dozens of reviewers are admiring the Steel Duo PID. However, I believe it is a bit overshadowed by machines with more impressive feature-sets and higher prices.
This machine features dual thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions, as well as precise milk frothing. The PID lets you alter the temperature of the brewing over here in one degree increments, a degree of precision normally reserved for more expensive machines. It also displays the temperature of the brew at the brew unit rather than the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing change from the majority of espresso machines at home that use a simple digital display that has blue numbers.
It also comes with a large, actively heated cup warmer, which is a great feature. Its steam wand is easy to use and comes with a non-burn function that auto-purges after every use. It is also programmable to allow for two pre-infusions, which means you can set the time for which the portafilter should be soaked prior to beginning the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite a few minor issues. The Ascaso's fast heat-up time and precise temperatures as well as quick heating ensure that your coffee will always be made at the ideal temperature. Additionally, the programmable infusion helps you perfect your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper that comes with it and the surprising low power of steam are two aspects that I'd like to point out but it's a great choice for espresso lovers at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra cash for its stylish design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine for those looking for the most value for their money. With a single boiler that heats up for brewing and steaming, the Silvia is simple to use and can be purchased in various colors to match the style of your home.
The Silvia also features a stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are simple to clean and remove. This machine comes with a removable water reservoir that can be topped off when the machine is running as well as an automatic shutoff function and a temperature dial that keeps your drinks at the right temperature for a perfect coffee experience.
The steam wand is of commercial quality and will allow you to create lattes and cappuccinos that are silky smooth that will impress your friends. The brewing control knobs on the Silvia are simple to comprehend and let you choose your desired extraction and the brewing time to create a customized drink. The Silvia has been proven to be reliable, durable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned company that is proud of its craftsmanship and quality. They stay constantly in contact with their community and listen to feedback. They design products that are perfected through the small aspects.
This machine is an ideal choice for people who are just beginning their journey in making espresso at home. However, it could 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 need to wait several minutes between making milk-based drinks.
It is also important to note that the company puts each and every Silvia through a stringent series of tests, so you can be confident that the machine is safe to operate. If you find there's any issue with your Silvia it comes with a one-year guarantee.