Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, so do consumer choices. Many top-rated commercial machines that are of the highest quality are now available to consumers as models for prosumers.
These heavier systems require more precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, yet do most of the work.
This model is made for those who enjoy espresso as a hobby and want to have full control over the brewing procedure.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's tiny beauty is a popular choice for espresso enthusiasts. It's got all the features to deliver a great shot every time, and it's not overly complicated to use. It's ideal for those looking to improve their coffee making skills but aren't quite ready to splurge on an expensive commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, when combined with the high-pressure extraction ensures that the beans are evenly pressed to give an even taste. You can also program different output quantities for two and one-shots with the click of a button, which is extremely beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating technology, which means you don't need to wait until it reaches the optimal temperature in the early morning. It will be hot and ready to go in just three seconds which is much quicker than most other machines.
The steam wand's automatic feature can make it simple for even the most novice users to make a amazing shot. It can produce a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, with presets for cappuccinos and lattes and many more. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam you can get from an actual professional-grade machine which requires modifying and a lot of practice. But it will still make an incredibly smooth and creamy latte or a cappuccino.
This model has an adjustable water reservoir that makes it simple to clean and refill. It's also compact and lightweight, making it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It also has an easy-to-clean glass lid to clean, which is another important aspect for those who have a small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is definitely worth the extra cost. It is easy to use, and comes with many great features. One of them is the auto-steam wand which will froth milk for you. It's the perfect option for anyone who wants a great cup of espresso at home. See if you're pre-approved - earn up to 10% in rewards1 and free shipping8 with the new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great alternative if you're looking to buy an affordable prosumer espresso maker. It includes many of the key features you would expect to find in a more expensive espresso machine, including a digital PID that controls the temperature to just a few degrees and an insulated steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit for simultaneous steaming and brewing. It also has a range of energy efficiency features like an eco mode that automatically sets the machine into standby after a certain period of inactivity, and an insulated boiler and a short water path that help reduce the loss of heat.
The Diletta Mio also comes with a professional-grade portafilter of 58mm. This is a standard size for most commercial espresso machines, and it assists to ensure that all of your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This, in turn, results in a more uniform and a better tasting espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you 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 fantastic feature for coffee lovers particularly since 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 simple relevant web-site for new users to use. However, it has several advanced features that be appealing to baristas with more experience in the home. For example the PID display doubles as a shot timer to let you easily monitor your shots and ensure that they are brewed to perfection. The brew and steam buttons are illuminated to let you know if you've reached the correct temperature and pressure for steaming or brewing.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This is a testimony to its quality and workmanship. This is an appliance 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 that is known for its production of an impressive espresso machine for home use and even a few commercial models. A quick YouTube search will reveal that a lot of reviewers are drooling over the Steel Duo PID. But, I think it's overshadowed by models that have more advanced features and higher prices.
The machine is equipped with two thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions as well as accurate milk frothing. The PID on this machine lets you alter the temperature of brewing in one-degree increments. This level of precision is usually reserved for expensive machines. It also displays a graph that displays the temperature of brewing at the brew unit rather than 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.
Another feature that is great is the large, active cup warmer. Its steam wand has an easy-to-use, non-burn feature that automatically purges after every use. It's also programmable to allow two pre-infusion sets that allows you to program in the time you'd like to soak the portafilter before proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite some minor issues. The Ascaso's fast heat-up time and precise temperatures as well as quick heating ensure that your coffee will be brewed at the right temperature. In addition, the pre-infusion that can be programmed helps you to improve your shot-making abilities.
I would slash it down by a few points due to the plastic tamper included and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall this is an excellent choice for home espresso lovers. The Ascaso is worth the extra cash for its elegant design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine for those seeking the best bang-for-your-buck. 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 complement your home's style.
The Silvia comes with a stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are easy to clean and remove. This machine comes with a removable water reservoir that can be filled up when the machine is in operation and also has an automatic shutoff feature and the temperature dial, which ensures your drinks are at the right temperature for a perfect coffee experience.
The steam wand is of commercial quality and will allow you to make silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your guests. The controls for brewing on the Silvia are simple to understand and let you choose your desired extraction as well as the brewing time to create a customized drink. The Silvia has been proven to be reliable, durable and long-lasting since its 1997 release.
Rancilio is a family-owned Italian company that is proud of its craftsmanship and quality. They are in constant contact with their community, and are open to feedback. They develop products that are perfected through the small details.
This machine is an excellent option for those who are just beginning their journey to making espresso at home. However, it could also be a great upgrade to an old moka maker under the supervision of a professional barista. The main drawback to this machine is that it doesn't have an exchanger, so you'll need to wait for a couple of minutes between making milk-based beverages.
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 confident that the machine is safe to use. If you discover that there's any issue with your Silvia manufacturer, they offer a one-year guarantee.