Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows as do the options for consumers. Prosumer models of many commercial machines of the highest quality are can now be purchased by customers.
These heavier systems require greater precision from the user for grinding or tamping as well as extraction time, yet they do much of the work for you.
This model is designed for people who take espresso as a hobby and would like to have complete control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's small beauty is a favorite among espresso lovers. It has the right features to deliver a great shot every time, and it's not overly complicated in its operation either. It's ideal for those who wish to improve their coffee making abilities but aren't ready to invest in a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, combined with the high pressure extraction ensures that the beans are evenly pressed, resulting in an even taste. You can also set different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots at the touch of a single button. This is extremely helpful to achieve consistently good results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system, which means you don't need to wait for it to reach the optimal temperature in the early morning. It will be hot and ready to go in only three seconds which is significantly faster than other models.
Even the most novice of users can pull off a great shot with this espresso machine due to the automatic steam wand. It is able to create a broad range of milk temperatures and textures, as well as presets for cappuccinos, lattes, and more. It's not able to produce the silky microfoam that you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires modifying and a lot of practice. But it can make a smooth, creamy latté or a 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 lid that is easy to clear, which is an important feature for those with a limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is definitely worth the extra price. It is easy to use and comes with many wonderful features. One of it is the auto-steam wand, which will make milk froth for you. This is the ideal option for anyone who wants to make a delicious cup at home. Check to see if you're approved - earn up to 10% in rewards1 + free shipping8 today with a new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a prosumer espresso machine that won't cost too much and isn't too expensive, the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It includes numerous of the essential features you'd expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, like a digital PID which regulates the temperature to within a few degrees and an actual steam wand which is connected to its own heating circuit to allow fast steaming and brewing at the same time. It also comes with a variety of energy efficiency features, like an eco mode that automatically sets the machine into standby after a specified timer, and an insulated boiler as well as a short water path that helps reduce the loss of heat.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industry-standard portafilter that measures 58mm. This is the standard size that is used by the majority of commercial espresso machines, and it helps to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This means you get a better tasting and evenly-distributed espresso.
Another feature that sets the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is its adjustable OPV valve. This gives you the ability to adjust the pressure exerted on the coffee grounds during extraction. You can play around with different styles and flavors. This is a fantastic feature for coffee lovers particularly since many 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 novices due to its easy-to-use interface. However, it has some advanced features that will draw more experienced baristas at home. The PID display can be used as a shot timer, allowing you to monitor your shots without difficulty and ensure they're perfect brewed. The brew and Steam buttons have lights that indicate when you've reached the right temperature and pressure for making steam or brewing.
Finally, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy, a fact that is a testimony to its high-end quality and workmanship. This is an appliance that will provide you with years of solid performance and reliable service, especially when it is maintained properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso the Spanish manufacturer, is well-known for its outstanding home espresso machines. They also produce a few commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that dozens of reviewers are drooling at the Steel Duo PID. However, I think it is a bit overshadowed by models with more impressive features and higher prices.
This machine is equipped with dual thermoblocks for stable espresso extractions and accurate milk frothing. Its PID lets you adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments, a degree of precision normally reserved for higher-end machines. It also displays a graph that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit, rather than at the thermoblock or boiler. This is a welcome departure from the standard digital display of most espresso machines in the home that use blue digits.
It also comes with a large and actively heated cup warmer, which is another great feature. The steam wand is simple to use and has a non-burn function that auto-purges after every use. It's also programmable for two pre-infusions, so you can program the desired amount of time to soak the portafilter prior to continuing with the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have some minor issues, overall it's a great home espresso machine. Its rapid heating process and precise temperatures ensure that your coffee is always at the right temperature. Additionally, the programmable infusion helps you perfect your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper included and the surprising low power of steam are two aspects that I'd like to point out but it's a great choice for espresso lovers at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra cost for its elegant design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking to buy a classic espresso machine that gives you the most bang for your buck then look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. With 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 your home's style.
The Silvia also features stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are easy to remove and clean. This machine has a removable water reservoir that can be filled when the machine is in operation and also has an automatic shutoff function and a temperature dial that ensures your drinks are at the right temperature for the ideal coffee experience.
The steam wand is commercial quality and will allow you to make silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your guests. The Silvia's brewing controls can be simple to use and let you customize 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 been able to stand the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned business which is proud of their craftsmanship and quality. They are always in touch with their community and listen to feedback. They design products that are perfected through the small details.
This machine is an excellent option for those just starting their journey into making espresso website at home, but it could also be a good upgrade from an old moka pot in the hands of a professional barista. The main drawback to this machine is that it doesn't have an exchanger for heat, which means you'll have to wait for a minute or two between making milk-based beverages.
The company also puts each Silvia through an extensive series of tests to be certain that the machine will work safely. If you find there's an issue with your Silvia manufacturer, they offer one-year warranties.