Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows and so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of many commercial machines of the highest quality are can now be purchased by customers.
These larger systems require greater precision from the user for grinding, tamping and extraction time, but they do most of the work for you.
This model is designed for people who enjoy espresso as a pastime and want to have full control over the process of brewing.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's small beauty is a cult favorite for espresso 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 those who wish to improve their coffee making abilities but aren't ready to spend the money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion and the accelerated high-pressure extraction will ensure that the beans are evenly pressed for a balanced flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two shots and one at the touch of a button, which is extremely beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating system, which allows it to heat up quickly in the morning. It'll be ready for use in just three seconds which is significantly faster than other machines.
The automatic steam wand can make it simple for even the most novice users to make a great shot. It is able to create a broad range of milk temperatures and textures, with presets for lattes, cappuccinos, and much more. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam you can get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modding and lots of practice but it will produce a satisfyingly smooth and creamy cappuccino or latte.
This model comes with a water reservoir that is removable which makes it easy 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 is easy to clean, which is another important feature for those who have a small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than the other models, is definitely worth the extra price. It is easy to use, and has many great features. One of it is the auto-steam wand that will froth milk for you. It's the perfect choice for anyone who would like a great coffee at home. Check if you're pre-approved. earn up to 10% back in rewards1 plus free shipping8 with the brand new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a prosumer espresso machine that won't cost too much then the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It includes numerous of the essential features you would expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, like a digital PID that controls the temperature to just a few degrees and an actual steam wand which is connected to its own heating circuit for simultaneous steaming and brewing. It is equipped with many energy-saving features, such as an eco mode, which automatically turns the machine off after a set period of inactivity.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industrial-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is a standard size for most commercial espresso machines, and helps to ensure that all of your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This means you get a better tasting and more evenly-distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you the ability to adjust the pressure exerted on the grounds of your coffee during extraction. You can experiment with different flavors and techniques. This is a great feature for coffee lovers, 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 has a simple user interface that is simple for beginners to use. It also has some advanced features which will attract experienced home baristas. For instance the PID display doubles as a shot timer to enable you to easily track your shots and ensure that they are made to perfection. There are lights on the steam and brew buttons to notify you that you have created enough pressure and temperature for the brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its quality and craftsmanship. 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 known for making some outstanding home espresso machines and even a couple of commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will reveal dozens of reviewers drooling over it. However, I think it's overshadowed by machines with more impressive feature-sets and a higher price tag.
This machine is equipped with two thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk frothing. The PID on this machine lets you adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments. This degree of precision is typically reserved for expensive machines. It also displays the brew temperatures at the brew unit, not the boiler or thermoblock. This is a welcome departure from the standard digital display of most espresso machines at home which use blue digits.
Another excellent feature is the large, active heated cup warmer. Its steam wand has an easy-to-use feature that does not burn and automatically cleanses after every use. It is also programmable to allow for two pre-infusions so that you can control the amount of time the portafilter should be soaked prior to proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have some minor issues, it's a great home espresso machine. Its fast heat-up time and precise temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always made at the right temperature. In addition, the pre-infusion that can be programmed allows you to improve your shot-making abilities.
The plastic tamper included and the surprisingly low power of steam are two points that I'd like to point out but it's an excellent option for those who love espresso at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra money for its premium look and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking to buy a classic espresso machine that can give you the most bang for your buck, look at the Rancilio Silvia. Featuring a single boiler that can be heated up for brewing as well as steaming, the Silvia is easy to use and can be purchased in a variety of colors to match the style of your home.
Silvia Silvia has a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to take off, clean and maintain. The Silvia has a removable reservoir which can be filled up while the machine is in use. It also comes with an automatic shutoff feature and an adjustable temperature dial to keep your drinks at just the ideal temperature.
Finally, the steam wand on 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 first release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned Italian company that is proud of its you can check here quality and craftsmanship. They keep close contact with their community of espresso lovers, listening to feedback and developing products that get the small things right.
This machine is perfect 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 does not have an exchanger, so you'll have to wait for a few minutes before making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests so that you can be certain that the machine will function safely. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty if you discover any issues.