Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, so do consumer options. Prosumer models of many high-end commercial machines can now be purchased by customers.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, but do most of the work.
This model is ideal for those who views espresso as an important pastime and wants complete control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
This small beauty is made by Breville is a top-pick for many espresso aficionados. It's got all the features to deliver a great shot every time and isn't too complicated in its operation either. It's perfect for those who are looking to improve their coffee-making skills but don't want to spend a lot of money on a premium commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, when combined with the high-pressure extraction guarantees that the beans are evenly pressed, resulting in a balanced taste. You can also set different output volumes for two shots and one-shots at the touch of a button. This is extremely helpful to ensure consistently good results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This means you won't need to wait until it reaches the ideal temperature in the 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 with this espresso machine thanks to the automatic steam wand. It comes with presets that can create cappuccinos, latte, and other milk types and temperatures. It won't produce the super-smooth, microfoam you get with an actual professional-grade machine which requires modifying and a lot of practice. But it can create a smooth, creamy latté or cappuccino.
This model comes with a water reservoir that is removable, which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also compact and lightweight which makes it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It also has a glass lid that is easy to keep clean, which is an important aspect for those who have a small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra cost. It's easy to use and comes with excellent features, including an auto-steam wand that will make your milk frothy for you. This is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to make a fantastic cup at home. Find out if you are approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 when you purchase a Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great alternative if you're looking to buy an affordable espresso maker for your home. It includes many of the features you'd expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, like a digital PID which regulates the temperature to just 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 is equipped with many energy-saving features, including an eco mode, which automatically shuts off the machine after a certain period of inactivity.
Additionally, the Diletta Mio comes with a premium, professional-grade 58mm portafilter. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and helps ensure that your espresso beans are evenly distributed during extraction. This, in turn, results in a more consistent and more delicious espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This gives you the ability to alter the pressure applied on your coffee grounds during extraction. You can experiment with different styles and flavors. Look At This is a fantastic feature for coffee enthusiasts, especially as 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 beginners to use. However, it also has certain advanced features that will appeal to more experienced home baristas. The PID display can also be used as a shot timer, allowing you to monitor your shots easily and ensure they are perfect brewed. There are also lights on the steam and brew buttons to inform you when you have built up enough pressure and temperature to allow steaming and brewing.
Finally, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy this confirms its quality and craftsmanship. This is an item that will give you years of reliable performance and reliable service, particularly if you keep it well-maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for producing an impressive espresso machine for home use and even a couple of commercial models. A quick YouTube search will reveal that a lot of reviewers are drooling at the Steel Duo PID. I think it's overshadowed, however by other models with more advanced features and cost more.
This machine features dual thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk frothing. The PID in this machine lets you adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments. This degree of precision is normally reserved for machines that cost a lot of money. It also features a display that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit instead of at the thermoblock or boiler. This is a welcome change from most espresso machines in the home which use a basic digital display with blue digits.
It also comes with a large, active heated cup warmer, which is another excellent feature. Its steam wand is easy to use and comes with a non-burn feature that automatically purges after each use. It can also be programmed for two sets of pre-infusion, so you can program the time you'd like to soak the portafilter prior to beginning the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have a few minor issues, it's an excellent home espresso machine. Its rapid heating process and precise temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always at the right temperature. Additionally, the programmable infusion allows you to perfect your shot-making techniques.
The plastic tamper included and the surprising low power of steam are two things I would not recommend however, this is an excellent option for those who love espresso at home. If you're willing some more it, the Ascaso is worth the price because of its extra features and premium look.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is the ideal espresso machine for those seeking the most value for their money. It has a single boiler which heats up for brewing and steaming, the Silvia is simple to use and can be purchased in various colors to match your home's style.
Silvia Silvia has a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to remove and clean, as well as maintain. This machine comes with an adjustable water reservoir that can be topped off while the machine is running, as well as an automatic shutoff function as well as the temperature dial, which keeps your drinks at the ideal temperature for a perfect coffee experience.
The steam wand comes in commercial quality and will allow you to make silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls can be simple to operate and allow you to personalize your drink by choosing the desired extraction time and the temperature at which you want to brew. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable, and robust, which is the reason it has stood the test of time since its initial 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 espresso lovers, observing feedback and developing products that get the small details right.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be an upgrade from moka pots if your a barista. The machine isn't equipped with a heat-exchanger, which means you'll need to wait for 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 do find that there is an issue with your Silvia manufacturer, they offer one-year warranties.