Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows as do the options for consumers. Prosumer models of several commercial machines are currently available to customers.
These heavier systems require greater precision from the user in grinding and tamping, as well as extraction time, but do most of the work for you.
This model is for someone who sees espresso as an intense hobby and would like complete control over the espresso process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's tiny beauty is a cult favorite among 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 skills but aren't quite ready to splurge on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, when combined with the high-pressure extraction, ensures that the ground beans are evenly pressed to produce an even flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two shots and one-shots by pressing of a single button. This is very helpful to ensure consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This means you won't have to wait for it to get to the ideal temperature in the morning. It'll be ready for use in just three seconds which is significantly more efficient than other machines.
Even the most novice of users will be able to pull off a great shot with this espresso machine, thanks to the automatic steam wand. It can create a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, along with presets for cappuccinos, lattes, and much more. It's not able to create the silky smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modding and plenty of practice but it will make a deliciously smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has an open reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It is also lightweight and compact which makes it easy to fit into small spaces. It also has an easy-to-clean glass lid to clear, which is an important aspect for those with a limited counter space.
Although it's a bit more expensive than some other models, the Bambino Plus is worth the cost. It's simple to use and comes with many wonderful features. One of it is the auto-steam wand, which will make milk froth for you. It's the perfect choice for anyone looking to make an excellent cup of coffee at home. Find out if you are approved and earn 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 with the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a high-end espresso machine that won't cost too much, the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It has many features that you'd expect to see in the higher-end espresso machines that includes the digital PID that controls the temperature within a couple of degrees. It also comes with a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating system that allows for near-simultaneous steaming and making. It is equipped with many energy-saving options, including an eco mode that automatically shuts off the machine after a certain time of inactivity.
Additionally as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a high-quality professional-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is the standard size that is used by the majority of commercial espresso machines, and it assists to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This results in a more delicious and more evenly-distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to fine-tune the pressure exerted on your coffee during extraction and allows you to experiment with different flavors and techniques. This is an excellent feature for coffee lovers especially since a lot of 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 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 make sure that they are brewed to perfection. The Steam and Brew buttons are lit up to inform you when you've reached the right temperature and pressure to begin making steam or brewing.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its high-end quality and workmanship. This is an appliance that will provide you with years of reliable performance and reliable service, particularly when it is maintained properly.
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. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar. A quick YouTube search will show scores of reviewers who are drooling over it. I think it's overshadowed, however by other devices with more advanced features and are priced higher.
The machine is equipped with two thermoblocks to ensure stable espresso extractions and precise milk frothing. Its PID allows you to adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one-degree increments, a degree of precision that is usually reserved for more expensive machines. It also has a display that displays the temperature of the brew in the brew unit instead of the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing departure from most espresso machines in the home which use a basic digital display that has blue numbers.
It also comes with a large and actively heated cup warmer, which is another great feature. The steam wand comes with an easy-to-use feature that does not burn and automatically purge after every use. It can also be programmed for two sets of pre-infusion that allows you to program in the time you'd like to let the portafilter soak before continuing with the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have a few minor issues, overall it's a great home espresso machine. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up, precise temperatures and fast heating ensure that your coffee will always be brewed at the right temperature. In addition, the programable infusion helps you perfect your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper and the surprisingly low power of steam are two points that I'd like to point out, but this is an excellent option for those who love espresso at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra cash for its stylish design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is the ideal espresso machine for those who want the most value for money. The Silvia comes with an individual boiler to make and steamed coffee. It's easy to use and comes in a variety colors to complement the style of your home.
Silvia Silvia features a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to remove, clean and maintain. The Silvia comes with a removable reservoir that can be filled while the machine is being used. It also comes with an automatic shutoff feature and a temperature dial to keep your drinks at just the perfect temperature.
The steam wand is of commercial grade and will allow you to make lattes and cappuccinos that are silky smooth that will impress your friends. The controls for brewing on the Silvia are simple to understand and let you choose your desired extraction as well as the brewing time find more information to create a customized drink. The Silvia has been proven to be reliable, durable and long-lasting since its 1997 release.
Rancilio is an Italian family-owned company that is proud of its quality and craftsmanship. They are in constant contact with their community of espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and developing products that get the little important details right.
This machine is perfect for those just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be an upgrade from moka pots if your a barista. The main drawback to this machine is that it does not have a heat exchanger, so you'll have to wait a few minutes between making milk-based beverages.
The company also puts each Silvia through an extensive series of tests so that you can be certain that the machine will operate safely. The manufacturer provides a one-year warranty if you discover an issue.