Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, so do consumer options. A variety of top-rated commercial machines that are of the highest quality are now available to consumers as models for prosumers.
These heftier systems demand greater precision from the user in grinding and tamping, as well as extraction time, but they do much of the work.
This model is designed for those who views espresso as an important pastime and wants full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
This small beauty from Breville is a top-pick for many coffee lovers. It's got all the features to give you a perfect shot every time, and it's not overly complicated to operate. It's perfect for those who wish to improve their coffee making skills, but aren't yet ready to splurge on the top of the line commercial equipment.
Its low pressure pre-infusion system and the accelerated high-pressure extraction will ensure that the beans are evenly pressed to ensure a balanced flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two shots and one at the touch of the button, which is very beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system, which means you won't have to wait around for it to reach the optimal temperature in the early morning. It will be ready to use in just three second which is a lot quicker than other models.
The steam wand's automatic feature makes it easy for even the most novice users to pull a great shot. It comes with presets that can create cappuccinos, latte and other milk types and temperatures. It's not able to create the silky smooth microfoam you can get from a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires mods and a lot of practice however, it can create a smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with an open reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also very lightweight and compact, which makes it to fit well into tight spaces. It has a glass top that is easy to clean, an important feature for those with a small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than the other models, is worth the extra price. It is easy to use, and comes with numerous great features. One of it is the auto-steam wand which will make milk froth for you. This is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to make a fantastic cup at home. Check if you're pre-approved. earn up to 10% in rewards1 and free shipping8 with the brand new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great alternative if you're in the market for a low-cost espresso maker for the home. It includes many of the key features you would expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, like a digital PID that controls the temperature to within a few degrees, and an actual steam wand which is connected to its own heating circuit for simultaneous steaming and brewing. It comes with a variety of energy-saving features, such as eco mode, which will automatically shut off the machine after a set period of inactivity.
In addition as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a professional-grade, high-quality 58mm portafilter. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and helps ensure that your espresso beans are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This results in a better-tasting and more evenly-distributed espresso.
Another characteristic that makes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is the adjustable OPV valve. This allows you to alter the pressure that is applied on your coffee grounds during extraction. You can test different styles and flavors. This is this post a great feature for coffee lovers 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 makes it easy for novices to use. However, it also includes several advanced features that be appealing to more experienced home baristas. The PID display can be used as a shot-timer allowing you to monitor your shots with ease and ensure they are perfect brewed. The brew and Steam buttons are illuminated to indicate when you've reached the right temperature and pressure for making steam or brewing.
Finally, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy which confirms its quality and workmanship. This machine will give you years of reliable service and solid performance particularly if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for producing an impressive espresso machine for home use and even a few commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that a lot of reviewers are admiring the Steel Duo PID. I do think that it's overshadowed, however by other models with more advanced features and cost more.
This machine is equipped with two thermoblocks that ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk frothing. The PID of this machine allows you to alter the temperature of brewing in one-degree increments. This degree of precision is typically reserved for machines that cost a lot of money. It also displays the temperature of the brew in the brew unit instead of the boiler or thermoblock. This is a refreshing change from most espresso machines in the home that use a simple digital display with blue digits.
Another feature that is great 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 to allow for two pre-infusions so that you can set the length of time that the portafilter must be soaked before proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite some minor issues. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up and precise temperature settings as well as its speedy heating ensure that your coffee will be made at the ideal temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion helps you perfect your shot-making techniques.
I would knock it down a few points for the included plastic tamper and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall it is a fantastic option for espresso lovers who want to make their own. The Ascaso is worth the extra cost for its premium look and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
Rancilio Silvia is the perfect espresso machine for those seeking the most value for money. The Silvia has an individual boiler to make and steamed coffee. It is simple to use and comes in a variety of colors to match the aesthetic of your home.
Silvia Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to remove and clean, as well as maintain. The Silvia has an ejector which can be filled up while the machine is being used. It also comes with an automatic shutoff feature as well as an adjustable temperature dial to ensure that your drinks are at the right temperature.
The steam wand comes in commercial quality and allows you to make lattes and cappuccinos that are silky smooth that will impress your guests. The control knobs for brewing on the Silvia are simple to comprehend and allow you to choose your desired extraction and the time of brewing for a custom drink. The Silvia has been proven to be reliable, durable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.
Rancilio is an Italian family-owned company that is proud of its quality and craftsmanship. They keep close contact with their community of espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and designing products that get the smallest details right.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning to make espresso at home. It could also be a great upgrade from moka pots if you're a barista. The main drawback to this machine is that it doesn't have an exchanger, so you'll have to wait for a few minutes between making milk-based beverages.
It's also worth mentioning that the company puts every Silvia through a rigorous set of tests so that you can be certain that your machine is safe to operate. If you do find that there's any issue with your Silvia, the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty.