Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of a variety of high-end commercial machines currently available to customers.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, yet do most of the work.
This model is made for those who use espresso as a hobby and would like to have complete control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's small beauty is a cult favorite among espresso enthusiasts. It's simple to use and comes with all the features you require to ensure a top espresso shot every time. It's ideal for people looking to improve their coffee-making skills but don't want to spend an enormous amount of money on a premium commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion and the accelerated high-pressure extraction will ensure that the beans are evenly crushed for an even 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 consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system, which means you won't have 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 significantly more efficient than other machines.
Even the novice will be able to pull off a great shot using this espresso machine due to the automatic steam wand. It comes with presets that can create cappuccinos, latte, and other milk types and temperatures. It's not able to create the silky smooth microfoam that you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modifying and plenty of practice but it will create a smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has a removable water reservoir which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also extremely light and compact, which makes it to fit well into small spaces. It also has a glass top that is easy to clean, which is an important aspect for those with a small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra price. It is easy to use, and comes with many wonderful features. One of them is the auto-steam wand that will make milk froth for you. This is the perfect choice for anyone looking to make a great cup at home. Find out if you are pre-approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 and free shipping8 with the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a high-end espresso machine that isn't too much then the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It features many of the features you'd expect to find in an espresso machine that is more expensive such as a digital PID which controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also comes with an insulated steam wand, which is that is connected to its own heating system to allow for simultaneous steaming and brewing. It comes with a variety of energy-saving options, including an eco mode that will automatically shut off the machine after a specific time of inactivity.
Additionally 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 ensures that your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This is a result in a more even and better-tasting espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you the ability to alter the pressure applied on the coffee grounds during extraction. You can play around with different flavors and techniques. This is a great 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 makes it easy for novices to use. However, it also has some advanced features that will be appealing to baristas with more experience in the home. For example the PID display doubles as a shot timer to allow you to easily monitor your shots and make sure that they are made to perfection. There are lights on the steam and brew buttons to notify you when you have built up enough pressure and temperature for brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its high-end quality and workmanship. This is an appliance that will give you years of reliable performance and reliable service, especially when it is maintained properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for making excellent espresso machines for home use and even a few commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will reveal dozens of reviewers drooling over it. I do think that it's overshadowed, however by other devices that have more impressive features and a higher cost.
This machine has dual thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions, as well as precise milk frothing. Its PID lets you adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments, a level of precision usually reserved for larger machines. It also has a display that shows the temperature of the brew in the brew unit, not the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing change from the majority of espresso machines at home which use a basic digital display with blue numbers.
Another feature that is great is the large, active cup warmer. The steam wand is simple to use and has an auto-purge feature that doesn't burn after each use. It's also programmed for two sets of pre-infusion which means you can program the desired amount of time to let the portafilter soak before beginning the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite a few minor issues. Its rapid heating process and precise temperatures ensure your coffee is always made at the right temperature. Additionally, the pre-infusion programable helps you to improve your shot-making skills.
I would give it by a few points due to the plastic tamper included and its shockingly low steam power, but overall this is a great option for those who love home espresso. If you're willing to pay a little more, the Ascaso is worth the price for its additional features and a premium appearance.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for an old-fashioned espresso machine that gives you the best bang for your money then 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 comes in various colors to match your home's style.
The Silvia also features stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are simple 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 function as well as a temperature dial that keeps your drinks at the ideal temperature for a perfect 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 friends. The Silvia's brewing controls can be simple to use and allow you to personalize your drink by choosing 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 an Italian family-owned business that takes pride in its quality and craftsmanship. They stay in close contact with their espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and developing products that get the small important details right.
This machine is ideal for those just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It can also be a replacement for moka pots if your a barista. The biggest drawback of see post this machine is that it does not have an exchanger, so you'll need to wait a couple of minutes between making milk-based beverages.
It's also worth mentioning that the company puts every Silvia through a stringent series of tests, so you can be confident that your equipment is safe to operate. If you do find that there's any issue with your Silvia manufacturer, they offer a one-year guarantee.