Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of several high-end commercial machines now available for customers.
These heavier systems require more precision from the user for grinding, tamping and extraction time, yet they do the majority of the work.
This model is designed for people who enjoy espresso as a hobby and want complete control over the process of brewing.
The Bambino Plus
This small beauty from Breville is a top pick for a lot of espresso lovers. It's got the features to deliver a great shot every time and isn't too complicated in its operation either. It's perfect for those who want to improve their skills in coffee making and don't want spend an enormous amount of money on a premium commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, combined with the high-pressure extraction guarantees that the beans will be evenly pressed to give an even taste. You can also program different output quantities for two and one-shots by pressing a button, which is extremely beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating technology, which means you won't need to wait for it to get to the ideal temperature in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in just three seconds, which is a lot faster than other models.
Even the most novice user will have no trouble pulling a great shot with this espresso machine because of the steam-powered automatic wand. It can produce a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, as well as presets for lattes, cappuccinos, and many more. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam that you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires modifying and a lot of practice. However, it can make a smooth, creamy latte or a cappuccino.
This model has a water reservoir that is removable that makes it simple to clean and refill. It's also light and compact, which helps it fit nicely into small spaces. It also has a glass lid that's easy to clear, which is an important feature for those with limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra cost. It's easy to use, and comes with numerous great features. One of it is the auto-steam wand which will make milk froth for you. This is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to make a fantastic cup at home. See if you're pre-approved - earn up to 10% in rewards1 and free shipping8 with a new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a high-end espresso machine that doesn't cost too much and isn't too expensive, the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It has many of the features you'd expect to find in a more expensive espresso machine, such as an electronic PID that regulates the temperature to just a few degrees and a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit for simultaneous steaming and brewing. It has many energy-saving features, such as eco mode, which automatically shuts off the machine after a specific time of inactivity.
The Diletta Mio also comes with a professional-grade portafilter of 58mm. This is a standard size for most commercial espresso machines, and it assists to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This results in a more delicious and more evenly distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to fine-tune the pressure exerted on your grounds during extraction, allowing you to experiment with various methods and flavors. This is a great option for those who love coffee since many espresso machines are sold with a pressure that is too high.
The Diletta Mio has a simple user interface that is simple for new users to use. However, it also includes some advanced features that will appeal to more experienced baristas at home. The PID display can be used as a shot timer, permitting you to keep track of your shots with ease and ensure that they are brewed perfectly. There are lights next to the brew and steam buttons to inform you when you have achieved enough pressure and temperature to allow the brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio is made in Italy this confirms its quality and craftsmanship. This machine will provide you with years of reliable service and solid performance particularly if it's well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso the Spanish manufacturer, is known for its top-quality home espresso machines. They also make commercial models. A quick YouTube search will reveal that many reviewers are drooling at the Steel Duo PID. I do think that it's overshadowed, however by other devices that have more impressive features and cost more.
This machine comes with two thermoblocks to ensure reliable espresso extractions as well as precise milk foaming. Its PID allows you to alter the temperature of the brewing in one degree increments, a degree of precision normally reserved for larger machines. It also has a display showing the brew temperature at the brew unit instead of at the boiler or thermoblock. This is a welcome change from most espresso machines in the home that use a simple digital display with blue digits.
Another feature that is great is the large, active cup warmer. Its steam wand has an easy-to-use feature that does not burn and automatically purges after every use. It is also programmable to allow two pre-infusions so that you can control the time for which the portafilter must be soaked before proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite a few minor issues. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up and precise temperature settings as well as its speedy heating ensure that your coffee will always be made at the perfect temperature. Additionally, the pre-infusion programable allows you to improve your shot-making abilities.
I would give it by a few points due to the plastic tamper included and its shockingly low steam coffee espresso machine power, but overall it is an excellent option for those who love home espresso. The Ascaso is worth the extra cash for its elegant design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is the ideal espresso machine for those looking for the best bang-for-your-buck. Featuring a single boiler that heats up for brewing and steaming, the Silvia is simple to use and comes in different colors to match your home's style.
Silvia Silvia features a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to take off and clean, as well as maintain. The Silvia has an adjustable reservoir that can be filled when the machine is in use. It also has an automatic shutoff feature and a temperature dial that will ensure that your drinks are at the right temperature.
Finally, the steam wand that comes with this machine is commercial-grade and lets you make silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will surely delight your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls are easy to use and allow you to customize your drink by choosing the desired extraction time and the temperature at which you want to brew. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable and reliable, which is why it has been able to stand the test of time since its first release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned company that is proud of its craftsmanship and quality. They stay in close contact with their community of espresso lovers, observing feedback and developing products that get the little important details right.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning to make espresso at home. It could also be a replacement for moka pots if you're 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 few minutes between making milk-based beverages.
It's also worth noting that the company puts every Silvia through a rigorous set of tests so that you can be certain that your equipment is safe to use. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty if you find a problem.