Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows so do consumer choices. Prosumer models of several commercial machines of the highest quality are now available for consumers.
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 ideal for those who considers espresso to be an important pastime and wants full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
This small beauty is made by Breville is a top choice for many espresso aficionados. It's easy to use and has all the features you require to ensure a top espresso shot every time. It's a great choice for those who want to improve their coffee making abilities but aren't ready to spend the money on an expensive commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, when combined with the high pressure extraction ensures that the ground beans are evenly pressed to produce an even flavor. You can also program distinct output quantities for two and one-shots at the touch of a button, which is very beneficial for consistent 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 optimal temperature in the early morning. It will be hot and ready to go in only three seconds, which is a lot quicker than the majority of other machines.
Even the novice can pull off a great shot with this espresso machine due to the automatic steam wand. It can create a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, with presets for cappuccinos and lattes and more. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam you can get from a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires modding and lots of practice. But it will still make a smooth, creamy latté or cappuccino.
This model comes with an open reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also extremely light and compact, which helps it to fit well in tight spaces. It also has a glass counter that is easy to clean, an important aspect for those who have little counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra price. It's easy to use and has a variety of amazing features, such as an auto-steam tool that can create froth for your milk. This is the ideal option for anyone looking to make a fantastic cup at home. Check to see if you're approved - earn up to 10% in rewards1 + free shipping8 today by using the new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're in the market for a prosumer espresso machine that won't cost too much and isn't too expensive, the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It features many of the features you'd expect to find in a higher-priced espresso machine such as an electronic PID that regulates the temperature within a few degrees. It also comes with an insulated steam wand, which is that is connected to its heating system that allows for simultaneous steaming and the brewing. It also has a number of energy efficiency features like an eco mode that automatically sets the machine into standby after a certain time of inactivity, as well as an insulated boiler and short water path that help reduce the loss of heat.
As an additional bonus as an additional 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 beans are evenly distributed during extraction. This results in a more delicious and more evenly-distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This lets you fine-tune the pressure that is exerted on your grounds during extraction, allowing you to experiment with various flavors and techniques. This is an excellent feature for coffee lovers especially since a lot of espresso machines leave 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 simple interface. It also has advanced features which will attract experienced home baristas. For example, the PID display doubles as a shot timer, which will enable you to easily track your shots and ensure they are brewed to perfection. There are lights in the area next to the steam and brew buttons to inform you when you have built up enough pressure and temperature to allow the brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio is made in Italy which speaks to its quality and craftsmanship. This machine can provide years of reliable service and solid performance particularly if it's 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 many reviewers are admiring the Steel Duo PID. However, I believe it gets overshadowed by other models that have more advanced features and a price tag that is higher.
This machine features dual thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions, as well as precise milk foaming. The PID on this machine allows you to adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments. This degree of precision is typically reserved for high-end machines. It also displays the temperature of the brew at the brew unit rather than the thermoblock or boiler. This is a welcome departure from the standard digital display that is common to home espresso machines, which uses blue numbers.
Another feature that is great is the large, active heated cup warmer. The steam wand is simple to use and comes with a non-burn function that auto-purges after every use. It can also be programmed for two sets of pre-infusion that allows you to program the desired amount of time to soak the portafilter prior to continuing with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite a few minor issues. Its quick heating time and precise temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always at the right temperature. Additionally, the pre-infusion programable allows you to improve your shot-making abilities.
espresso machine pods included and the low-power of steam are two things I would not recommend but it's a great choice for those who love espresso at home. If you're willing to spend some more then the Ascaso is worth the price for its extra features and premium look.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking to buy a classic espresso machine that gives you the best bang for your money, look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. With a single boiler that heats up for brewing and steaming the Silvia is easy to use and is available in various colors to complement the style of your home.
The Silvia also features stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are easy to clean and remove. The Silvia comes with an adjustable reservoir that can be filled when the machine is in use. It also comes with an automatic shutoff feature and an adjustable temperature dial to keep your drinks at the right temperature.
Finally, the steam wand on this machine is commercial-grade and lets you make silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls are simple to operate and allow you to personalize your drink by selecting the desired extraction time and the temperature at which you want to brew. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting, and robust, which is the reason it has endured the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned company that takes pride in their quality and craftsmanship. They are in constant contact with their community, and are open to feedback. They create products that are refined by the smallest of little details.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning to make espresso at home. It can also be an upgrade from a moka pot if you're a barista. The machine doesn't have a heat exchanger, which means you'll have to wait for a few minutes between making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests to be certain that the machine will function safely. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty if you discover a problem.