Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, so do consumer choices. Many top-rated commercial machines that are of the highest quality are now available to consumers as prosumer models.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, but they can do the bulk of the work.
This model is made for those who take espresso as a hobby and want complete control over the process of brewing.
The Bambino Plus
This tiny beauty from Breville is a top choice for a lot of espresso lovers. It's got the features to make a fantastic shot every time and isn't overly complicated to use. It's ideal 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 give a balanced taste. You can also set different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots by pressing of a button. This is extremely helpful to achieve consistently good results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating technology, which means you won't have to wait around until it reaches the optimal temperature in the early morning. It will be hot and ready to go in less than three seconds which is much faster than other models.
Even the most novice user can pull off an excellent shot with this espresso machine, thanks to the automatic steam wand. It has presets to create cappuccinos, latte and other milk types and temperatures. It won't produce the super-smooth microfoam that you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires modifying and lots of practice. But it can produce a smooth, creamy latte or a cappuccino.
This model comes with an open reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also light and compact making it easy to fit into small spaces. It also has a glass lid that's easy to clean, which is another important feature for those with a limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is worth the extra price. It's easy to use, and has numerous great features. One of them is the auto-steam wand, which will froth milk for you. It's the perfect option for anyone looking to make the perfect cup of espresso at home. Check if you're pre-approved. earn up to 10% in rewards1 + free shipping8 with a new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great option if you're looking for an affordable espresso maker for the home. It has numerous of the essential features you'd expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, like a digital PID which regulates the temperature to within a few degrees and an actual steam wand which is connected to its own heating circuit to allow near-simultaneous brewing and steaming. It is equipped with many energy-saving features, such as an eco mode, which automatically turns the machine off after a specific period of inactivity.
As an additional bonus As an added bonus, as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a high-quality professional-grade portafilter that measures 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines, and it helps ensure that your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This means you get a better tasting and more evenly distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This lets you fine-tune the pressure exerted on your coffee during extraction and allows you to experiment with various flavors and techniques. This is a great feature for coffee lovers, 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 is easy to use for beginners due to its easy-to-use interface. It also has some advanced features that will attract experienced home baristas. The PID display can also be used as a shot-timer, which allows you to track your shots without difficulty and ensure they're made to perfection. The brew and Steam buttons have lights that inform you when you've reached the right temperature and pressure to begin brewing or steaming.
In addition, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy which speaks to its quality and workmanship. This is a machine that will provide you with years of reliable performance and reliable service, particularly when you maintain it properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer that is known for its production of some outstanding home espresso machines and even a few commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that many reviewers are admiring the Steel Duo PID. However, I believe it's overshadowed by machines with more impressive feature-sets and a higher price tag.
This machine has dual thermoblocks to ensure stable espresso extractions, as well as accurate clicking here milk frothing. The PID of this machine allows you to adjust brewing temperatures in one-degree increments. This degree of precision is normally reserved for expensive machines. It also displays a graph that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit instead of at the boiler or thermoblock. This is a welcome departure from the simple digital display on most espresso machines at home which use blue numbers.
Another great feature is the large, active cup warmer. The steam wand comes with an easy-to-use non-burn feature that automatically purge after each use. It can also be programmed for two sets of pre-infusion which means you can program the time you'd like to soak the portafilter before proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have some minor issues, it's a great home espresso machine. Its fast heat-up time and precise temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always at the optimal temperature. Additionally, the pre-infusion programable allows you to improve your shot-making abilities.
The plastic tamper included and the surprisingly low power of steam are two points I would not recommend, but this is an excellent option for those who love espresso at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra money for its stylish design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
Rancilio Silvia is the perfect espresso machine for those who want the best bang-for-your-buck. 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 complement the style of your home.
Silvia Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to remove, clean and maintain. This machine features a removable reservoir that can be filled while the machine is in use. It also has an automatic shutoff function and a temperature dial that will keep your drinks at the ideal temperature.
The steam wand on this machine is commercial grade and lets you create silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your friends. The control knobs for brewing on the Silvia are simple to understand and let you choose the desired extraction and brew time for a custom drink. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting and robust, which is the reason it has stood the test of time since its first release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned Italian company that is proud of its craftsmanship and quality. They stay always in touch with their community, and listen to feedback. They design products that are refined by the tiny little details.
This machine is an excellent option for those just beginning their journey to making espresso at home. However, it could also be a good upgrade over a moka pot in the hands of a professional barista. The biggest drawback of this machine is that it does not have a heat exchanger, so you will need to wait a minute or two between making milk-based beverages.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests to be certain that the machine will operate safely. The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty in the event of an issue.