Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, so do consumer options. Many top-rated commercial machines that are of the highest quality are now available to customers as prosumer models.
These heavier systems require more precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, but they can do the bulk of the work.
This model is ideal for those who sees espresso as an intense hobby and would like full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
This tiny beauty from Breville is a top choice for many coffee lovers. It's easy to use and comes with all the features you need to make a perfect espresso shot every time. It's ideal for those who want to improve their skills in coffee making, but don't want to spend a lot of money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, when combined with the high pressure extraction ensures that the beans are evenly pressed, resulting in an even taste. You can also set different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots with the touch of a single button. This is very helpful to ensure consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system, which means you won't need to wait around for it to get to the right temperature in the morning. It will be ready to use in just three second which is a lot more efficient than other machines.
The automatic steam wand will make it easy for even the most novice users to pull a amazing shot. It has presets to create cappuccinos, latte and other milk-based textures and temperatures. It won't produce the super-smooth microfoam that you get from a professional-grade hand-held machine, which requires modding and lots of practice. But it will still make a smooth, creamy latte or a cappuccino.
This model comes with a water reservoir that is removable, which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also very lightweight and compact, which makes it to fit well in tight spaces. It has a glass top that is easy to clean, which is an important feature for those with small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than the other models, is definitely worth the extra price. It's simple to use, and comes with numerous great features. One of them is the auto-steam wand that will froth milk automatically. It's the ideal choice for anyone who wants the perfect cup of coffee at home. Find out if you are approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 along with free shipping8 with a Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're in the market for a professional espresso machine that won't cost too much, the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It features many of the features you'd expect to find on an espresso machine that is more expensive such as an electronic PID that regulates the temperature within a couple of degrees. It also comes with a solid steam wand connected to its own heating system for simultaneous steaming and brewing. It also has a range of energy-saving features, including an eco mode that automatically puts the machine in standby mode after a set time of inactivity, as well as an insulated boiler and short water path that helps reduce the loss of heat.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industrial-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is a standard size that is used by the majority of commercial espresso machines, and helps to ensure that all of your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This will result in a more consistent and a better tasting espresso.
Another characteristic that distinguishes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is its adjustable OPV valve. This allows you to fine-tune the pressure that is exerted on your grounds during extraction and allows you to experiment with different flavor profiles and techniques. This is an excellent feature for coffee lovers especially since a lot of 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 for novices to use. However, it also has several advanced features that draw more experienced baristas at home. For example the PID display doubles as a shot timer, which will allow you to easily monitor your shots and make sure that they are made to perfection. The brew and steam buttons have lights that indicate when you've reached the right temperature and pressure for making steam or brewing.
Finally, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy which speaks to its quality and craftsmanship. This machine will give you years of solid performance and reliability particularly if it's well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer that is known for its production of some outstanding home espresso machines and even a couple of commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar. A quick YouTube search will show dozens of reviewers swooning over it. I do think that it is overshadowed, however by other devices that offer more features and cost more.
This machine is equipped with dual thermoblocks for reliable espresso extractions as well as precise milk foaming. The PID lets you alter the temperature of the brewing in one-degree increments, a degree of precision that is usually reserved for higher-end machines. It also has a display that displays the temperature of brewing at the brew unit, rather than the boiler or thermoblock. This is a refreshing change from the traditional digital display of most espresso machines in the home that use blue numbers.
Another excellent feature is the large, active heated cup warmer. Its steam wand has an easy-to-use feature that does not burn and automatically cleanses after each use. It can also be programmed for two pre-infusions, so you can program the desired amount of time to soak the portafilter prior to proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have some minor issues, it's an excellent home espresso machine. The Ascaso's quick heat-up time and precise temperature settings as well as its speedy heating ensure that your coffee will be made at the perfect temperature. In addition, the programable infusion helps you perfect your shot-making skills.
I would knock it down a few points for the included plastic tamper and its shockingly low steam power, but overall it is a great choice for home espresso lovers. The Ascaso is worth the extra cash for its stylish design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine for those looking for the most value for money. Featuring a single boiler that heats up for brewing and steaming the Silvia is easy to use and is available in a variety of colors to match your home's aesthetic.
The Silvia features a drip pan and cup tray made of more info here stainless steel that are easy to take off, clean and maintain. This machine features an adjustable reservoir that can be filled while the machine is in use. It also features an automatic shutoff function and a temperature dial that will keep your drinks at the perfect temperature.
The steam wand in this machine is commercial grade and allows you to create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that are sure to impress your friends. The controls for brewing on the Silvia are easy to grasp and allow you to choose the desired extraction and the time of brewing for a custom drink. The Silvia has 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 craftsmanship and quality. They stay in close contact with their espresso lovers, listening to feedback and developing products that get the small things right.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It can also be an upgrade from a moka pot if you're a barista. This machine does not have a heat-exchanger, which means you'll have to wait a few minutes between making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through an extensive series of tests to be sure that your machine will operate safely. The manufacturer provides a one-year warranty if you find a problem.