Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows, so do consumer options. Many top-rated commercial machines that are of the highest quality are now available to consumers as prosumer models.
These heavier systems require more precision from the user for grinding or tamping as well as extraction time, but they do much of the work.
This model is for someone who considers espresso to be an intense hobby and would like complete control over the espresso process.
The Bambino Plus
This tiny beauty is made by Breville is a top pick for many coffee lovers. It's simple to use and has all the features you require to get a great espresso shot every time. It's ideal for people who want to improve their skills in coffee making but don't want to spend much money on a high-end commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion system and increased high-pressure extraction ensure that the beans are evenly pressed for an even flavor. You can also program different output quantities for two and one-shots by pressing an button, which can be extremely beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system, 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 automatic steam wand will make it easy for even the most novice users to pull a great shot. It is able to create a broad range of milk temperatures and textures, along with presets for cappuccinos and lattes and many more. It's not able to create the silky smooth microfoam you can get from a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires mods and lots of practice however, it can create a smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with an adjustable water reservoir which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also very lightweight and compact, which makes it fit nicely into tight spaces. It also has a glass lid that is easy to clean, which is an important feature for those with limited counter space.
While it's a little bit more expensive than other models but the Bambino Plus is worth the cost. It's simple to use and comes with amazing features, such as an automatic steam tool that can make your milk frothy for you. This is the ideal choice for anyone looking to make a delicious cup at home. Find out if your approved and earn 10% in rewards1 along with free shipping8 when you purchase the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're in the market for a high-end espresso machine that isn't too much and isn't too expensive, the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It has many features that you'd expect to find on the higher-end espresso machines, including an electronic PID that regulates the temperature within a few degrees. It also has a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating system to allow for near-simultaneous steaming and the brewing. 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 timer, and an insulated boiler and short water path that help to reduce heat loss.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industry-standard portafilter that measures 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines, and it helps ensure that your espresso beans are evenly spread during extraction. This results in a better-tasting and evenly-distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to adjust the pressure that is exerted on your grounds during extraction and allows you to experiment with different flavors and techniques. This is an excellent alternative for coffee lovers, as many espresso machines are sold with pressures that are too high.
The Diletta Mio is easy to use for beginners due to its easy-to-use interface. It also has some advanced features which will be appealing to experienced baristas at home. The PID display can be used as a shot-timer, which allows you to track your shots without difficulty and ensure they're made to perfection. There are also lights in the area next to the steam and brew buttons to notify you when you have achieved enough pressure and temperature for the brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio is made in Italy this speaks to its quality and workmanship. This machine will provide you with years of solid performance and reliability, especially if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for making some outstanding home espresso machines and even a couple of commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that a lot of reviewers are drooling at the Steel Duo PID. I do believe that it's being overshadowed by other models that have more impressive features and a higher cost.
This machine comes with two thermoblocks that ensure stable espresso extractions and accurate milk frothing. Its PID lets you adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one-degree increments, which is a degree of precision that is usually Full Statement reserved for more expensive machines. It also has a display that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit, rather than at the boiler or thermoblock. This is a welcome change from most home espresso machines that rely on a simple digital display with blue digits.
It also comes with a large, active heated cup warmer, which is another excellent feature. Its steam wand is easy to use and comes with an auto-purge feature that doesn't burn after each use. It can also be programmed to allow two pre-infusions, which means 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 a few minor problems. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up and precise temperature settings as well as its speedy heating ensure that your coffee will always be brewed at the right temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion will help you improve your shot-making technique.
I would knock it down a few points for the plastic tamper included and its shockingly low steam power, but overall it is an excellent option for those who love home espresso. If you're willing more it, the Ascaso is worth the price for its additional features and its premium design.
The Rancilio Silvia
Rancilio Silvia is the perfect espresso machine for those looking for the best bang-for-your-buck. The Silvia comes with an individual boiler to make and steaming coffee. It is simple to use, and comes in a variety colors to match the aesthetic of your home.
The 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 comes with an adjustable reservoir that can be filled when the machine is in use. It also features an automatic shutoff feature as well as an adjustable temperature dial to keep your drinks at just the perfect temperature.
The steam wand is of commercial quality and will allow you to create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your guests. The Silvia's brewing controls are simple to operate and allow you to customize your drink by choosing the desired extraction time and brew temperature. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable and reliable, which is why it has been able to stand the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned company which is proud of their quality and craftsmanship. They keep close contact with their community of espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and developing products that get the little details right.
This machine is ideal for those who are just beginning to make espresso at home. It can also be an upgrade from moka pots if your a barista. The biggest drawback of this machine is that it does not have an exchanger for heat, which means you will need to wait for a minute or two before making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests so that you can be certain that the machine will work safely. The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty if you find any issues.