Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands as do the options for consumers. Prosumer models of several commercial machines are currently available to customers.
These heavier systems require more precision from the user for grinding or tamping as well as extraction time, but do the majority of the work.
This model is ideal for those who views 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 coffee enthusiasts. It's user-friendly and has all the features you need to make a perfect espresso shot every time. It's a great choice for those who want to improve their coffee-making skills, but aren't yet ready to spend the money on the top of the line commercial equipment.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, when combined with the high-pressure extraction, guarantees that the beans will be evenly pressed to produce a balanced taste. You can also set different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots by pressing of a single button. This is very helpful to achieve consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating system, which lets it heat up quickly in the morning. It'll be ready for use in only three seconds which is significantly faster than other machines.
The automatic steam wand will make it easy for even the most novice users to pull a great shot. It comes with presets for cappuccinos, latte and other milk types and temperatures. It's not going to create the super-smooth, microfoam you get with a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires tweaking and lots of practice. But it will still create a smooth, creamy latté 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 has a glass top that is easy to clean, which is an important feature for those who have little counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than the other models, is worth the extra cost. It's user-friendly and comes with great features, including an automatic steam wand that will froth your milk for you. This is the perfect choice for those who want to make a great cup at home. Find out if you are approved and earn 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 when you purchase the 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 the home. It comes with many features you'd expect to see in a higher-priced espresso machine that includes the digital PID that controls the temperature within a couple of degrees. It also has an insulated steam wand, which is that is connected to its heating system for fast steaming and making. It also comes with a variety of energy efficiency features such as an optional eco mode that automatically puts the machine into standby after a certain period of inactivity, and an insulated boiler as well as a short water path that helps reduce the loss of heat.
The Diletta Mio also comes with a professional-grade portafilter of 58mm. This is the standard size that is used by the majority of commercial espresso machines, and helps to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This, in turn, results in a more uniform and more delicious espresso.
Another feature that distinguishes 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 the grounds of your coffee during extraction. You can test different styles and flavors. This is an excellent feature for coffee enthusiasts particularly since many espresso machines leave 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 novices to use. However, it also includes several advanced features that draw more experienced baristas at home. The PID display can also be used as a shot-timer allowing you to monitor your shots easily and ensure that they are brewed perfectly. The brew and Steam buttons are lit up to indicate when you've reached the proper temperature and pressure for brewing or steaming.
Coffeee was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its high-end quality and workmanship. This machine will provide you with years of reliable service and solid performance, especially if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for making excellent espresso machines 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 drooling over it. I do think that it is overshadowed, however by other models that have more impressive features and are priced higher.
The machine is equipped with two thermoblocks that ensure stable espresso extractions and accurate milk frothing. The PID lets you alter the temperature of the brewing in one-degree increments, which is a degree of precision that is usually reserved for higher-end machines. It also features a display that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit, instead of at the boiler or thermoblock. This is a refreshing change from the traditional digital display of most espresso machines in the home, which uses blue numbers.
It also comes with a large and actively heated cup warmer, which is another excellent feature. Its steam wand is easy to use and has an auto-purge feature that doesn't burn after each use. It can also be programmed to allow two pre-infusions so that you can control the amount of time the portafilter should be soaked before proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite a few minor issues. Its fast heat-up time and precise temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always made at the perfect temperature. In addition, the pre-infusion that can be programmed allows you to improve your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper included and the surprising low power of steam are two points that I would criticize but it's an excellent option for espresso lovers at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra money for its premium look and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for an old-fashioned espresso machine that can give you the best bang for your money Look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. The Silvia comes with one boiler that can be used to brew and steamed coffee. It is easy to use, and comes in a variety colors to match the aesthetic of your home.
The Silvia also features a stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are easy to clean and remove. The Silvia has an adjustable water reservoir that can be topped off while the machine is running and also has an automatic shutoff function as well as the temperature dial, which ensures your drinks are at the right temperature to provide the best coffee experience.
The steam wand comes in commercial quality and will allow you to make silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls are easy to use and let you customize your drink by choosing the desired extraction time and brew temperature. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting, and robust, which is the reason it has endured the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned company that takes pride in their craftsmanship and quality. They are in constant contact with their community of espresso lovers, listening to feedback and creating products that get the small details right.
This machine is perfect for those just beginning to make espresso at home. It could also be an upgrade from a moka pot if you're a barista. The machine doesn't have an exchanger for heat, so you will need to wait for some time between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth noting that the company puts each and every Silvia through a rigorous set of tests, so you can be confident that your equipment is safe to use. The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty if you find an issue.