Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of several commercial machines are currently available to customers.
These heftier systems demand more precision from the user in grinding, tamping and extraction time, yet they do most of the work.
This model is designed for those who views espresso as a serious hobby and wants full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts. It's simple to use and comes with all the features you require to get a great espresso shot every time. It's ideal for people looking to improve their coffee-making abilities but don't want to spend an enormous amount of money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion system and stepped up high-pressure extraction ensure that the ground beans are evenly pressed to ensure an even flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots with the touch of a button. This can be very beneficial to ensure consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating system, which allows it to warm up quickly in the morning. It'll be ready for use in just three second which is significantly quicker than other models.
Even the most novice user will be able to pull off a great shot with this espresso machine, because of the steam-powered automatic wand. It can create a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, with presets for cappuccinos, lattes, and more. It won't create the super-smooth microfoam you can get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modifying and plenty of practice, but it will still produce a satisfyingly smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has a removable water reservoir that makes it simple to clean and refill. It's also very lightweight and compact, which makes it fit easily in tight spaces. It also has a glass lid that is easy to clean, which is another important feature for those who have a small counter space.
While it's a little bit more expensive than other models however, the Bambino Plus is worth the additional cost. It's easy to use, and comes with many wonderful features. One of them is the auto-steam wand which will make milk froth for you. This is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to make a great cup at home. Find out if your pre-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 high-end espresso machine that doesn't cost too much then the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It comes with many features you'd expect to find in the higher-end espresso machines that includes the digital PID that controls the temperature within a couple of degrees. It also comes with a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating system to allow for near-simultaneous steaming and making. It is equipped with many energy-saving features, including an eco mode that automatically turns the machine off after a certain period of inactivity.
As an additional bonus as an additional bonus, as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a premium, professional-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and helps ensure that your beans are evenly spread during extraction. This results in a better-tasting and more evenly distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to adjust the pressure that is imposed on your grounds during extraction, allowing you to experiment with various methods and flavors. This is a great feature for coffee enthusiasts, 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 thanks to its easy-to-use interface. It also has some advanced features that be appealing to experienced baristas at home. The PID display can be used as a shot-timer permitting you to keep track of your shots easily and ensure they're brewed perfectly. The Steam and Brew buttons are lit up to indicate when you've reached the right temperature and pressure for brewing or steaming.
The Diletta Mio is made in Italy which is a testimony to its high-end quality and craftsmanship. This is an appliance that will give you years of solid performance and reliable service, especially when it is maintained properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso, a Spanish manufacturer, is known for its exceptional home espresso machines. They also make commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that a lot of reviewers are drooling at the Steel Duo PID. However, I think it is a bit overshadowed by machines with more impressive feature-sets and higher bean to cup espresso machine prices.
This machine has dual thermoblocks to ensure stable espresso extractions and precise milk foaming. The PID in this machine allows you to adjust brewing temperatures in one-degree increments. This level of precision is usually reserved for machines that cost a lot of money. It also features a display showing the brew temperature at the brew unit instead of at the thermoblock or boiler. This is a welcome change from most home espresso machines that rely on a simple digital display that has blue numbers.
Another excellent feature is the large, active heated cup warmer. The steam wand features an easy-to-use feature that does not burn and automatically cleanses after each use. It's also programmed for two pre-infusions that allows you to program in the amount you want to soak the portafilter prior to proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have a few minor issues, it's a great home espresso machine. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up and precise temperatures as well as quick heating ensure that your coffee will always be brewed at the right temperature. Additionally, the programmable infusion will help you improve your shot-making technique.
The plastic tamper included and the surprising low power of steam are two points I would not recommend but it's a great choice for espresso lovers at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra cost for its stylish design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine for those seeking the most value for their money. The Silvia has a single boiler for brewing and steamed coffee. It's easy to use, and comes in a variety of colours to match the design of your home.
The Silvia also features a stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are easy to remove and clean. This machine comes with an adjustable water reservoir that can be topped off when the machine is in operation, as well as an automatic shutoff feature and the temperature dial, which ensures your drinks are at the right temperature for a perfect coffee experience.
The steam wand is commercial grade and will allow you to make lattes and cappuccinos that are silky smooth that will impress your guests. The Silvia's brewing controls can be simple to use and allow you to customize your drink by selecting the desired extraction time and the temperature at which you want to brew. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting 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 are in constant contact with their customers, and take feedback. They design products that are perfected by the small aspects.
This machine is a great option for those just starting their journey into making espresso at home. However, it can also be a solid upgrade over a moka pot in the hands of a professional barista. This machine does not have an exchanger for heat, so you'll have to wait for several minutes between making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through a series of rigorous tests so that you can be sure that your machine will work safely. If you do find that there's any issue with your Silvia it comes with a one-year guarantee.