Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands as do the options for consumers. A variety of top-rated commercial machines, including top-of-the-line models, 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 considers espresso to be an important pastime and wants complete control over the espresso process.
The Bambino Plus
This small beauty from Breville is a top choice for many espresso aficionados. It's simple to use and comes with all the features you require to get a great espresso shot every time. It's perfect for those looking to improve their coffee-making skills but aren't quite ready to splurge on the top of the line commercial equipment.
Its low pressure pre-infusion and increased high-pressure extraction ensure that the ground beans are evenly pressed to ensure the best flavor. You can also set different output volumes for two shots and one-shots at the touch of a button. This can be very beneficial to ensure consistently good results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating system, which allows it to heat up quickly in the morning. It will be ready to use in just three seconds which is significantly quicker than other models.
The steam wand's automatic feature can make it simple for even the most novice users to pull a fantastic shot. It comes with presets that can create cappuccinos, latte, as well as other milk textures and temperatures. It's not able to create the silky smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on, professional-grade machine, which requires mods and a lot of practice, but it will still make a deliciously smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has a removable water reservoir which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also lightweight and compact making it easy to fit into small spaces. It also has a glass counter that is easy to clean, another important aspect for those with a limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is worth the extra price. It's easy to use, and comes with many wonderful features. One of them is the auto-steam wand which will froth milk automatically. It's the perfect option for anyone who would like the perfect cup of espresso at home. See if you're pre-approved - earn up to 10% back in rewards1 plus free shipping8 today with a new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great alternative if you're looking to buy an inexpensive prosumer espresso maker. It comes with many features you'd expect to find in an espresso machine that is more expensive such as the digital PID that controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also comes with a solid steam wand connected to its own heating system that allows for near-simultaneous steaming and brewing. It is equipped with many energy-saving options, including eco mode, which will automatically shut off the machine after a certain time of inactivity.
In addition, as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a professional-grade, high-quality portafilter measuring 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and helps ensure that your espresso beans are evenly spread during extraction. This, in turn, results in a more uniform and more delicious espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to fine-tune the pressure that is imposed on your coffee during extraction and allows you to experiment with different methods and flavors. This is an excellent option for those who love coffee as a lot of espresso machines are sold with a pressure that is too high.
The Diletta Mio has a simple user interface that makes it easy for novices to use. However, it has several advanced features that appeal to baristas with more experience in the home. The PID display can be used as a shot timer, permitting you to keep track of your shots easily and ensure they are made to perfection. There are also lights on the brew and steam buttons to inform you that you have created enough pressure and temperature to allow brewing and steaming.
In addition, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy this speaks to its quality and workmanship. This machine will provide you with years of reliable service and solid performance particularly if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer, is known for its exceptional home espresso machines. They also make commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will show dozens of reviewers drooling over it. However, I think it gets overshadowed by other machines with more impressive feature-sets and a higher price tag.
This machine comes with two thermoblocks that ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk frothing. The PID lets you adjust the brewing temperature in one-degree increments, which is a degree of precision normally reserved for more expensive machines. It also has a display that displays the temperature of the brew at the brew unit instead of the boiler or thermoblock. This is a welcome departure from the standard digital display on most espresso machines at home which use blue digits.
It also comes with a large, active heated cup warmer, which is a excellent feature. Its steam wand is easy to use and comes with a non-burn function that auto-purges after every use. It's also programmable to allow two pre-infusion sets that allows you to program the time you'd like to soak the portafilter before continuing with the extraction.
While the Ascaso has a few minor issues, it's an excellent home espresso machine. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up, precise temperatures and fast heating ensure that your coffee will always be made at the perfect temperature. In addition, the programable infusion will help you improve your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper that comes with it and the surprisingly low power of steam are two things that I would criticize, but this is an excellent option for coffee lovers at home. If you're willing a little more, the Ascaso is definitely worth it because of its extra features and a premium appearance.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for a classic espresso machine that can give you the most bang for your buck, look at the Rancilio Silvia. The Silvia features an individual boiler to make and steaming coffee. It is easy to use and comes in a variety colours to match the design 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. This machine has a water reservoir that is removable and can be filled up while the machine is running and also has an automatic shutoff function and the temperature dial, which keeps your drinks at the ideal temperature for the ideal coffee experience.
Finally, the steam wand that comes with this machine is commercial grade and allows you to create silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will surely impress your guests. The Silvia's brewing controls are easy to use and let you customize your drink by choosing the desired extraction time and brew temperature. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting and reliable, which is why it has endured the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is an Italian family-owned business that takes pride in its craftsmanship and quality. They stay in close contact with their espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and developing products that get the smallest important details right.
This machine is ideal 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. The biggest downside to this machine is that it doesn't have a heat exchanger, so you will need to wait for a few minutes before making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth noting that the company puts every Silvia through a rigorous series of tests, so you can be certain that the machine is safe to operate. The manufacturer the full details offers a 1-year warranty if you discover any issues.