Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, as do the options for consumers. A variety of top-rated, high-end commercial machines are now accessible to customers as prosumer models.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, but they can do the bulk of the work.
This model is designed for those who use espresso as a hobby and want complete control over the process of brewing.
The Bambino Plus
This tiny beauty from Breville is a top pick for many coffee lovers. It's simple to use and comes with all the features you need to ensure a top espresso shot every time. It's ideal for people who want to improve their coffee-making skills and don't want spend much money on a high-end commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, combined with the high-pressure extraction ensures that the beans are evenly pressed to produce an even taste. You can also program distinct output volumes for one and two-shots at the touch of an button, which can be very helpful for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This means you don't need to wait for it to get to the ideal temperature in the morning. It will be ready to use in only three seconds which is a lot more efficient than other machines.
The steam wand's automatic feature makes it easy for even the most novice users to pull off a great shot. It comes with presets for cappuccinos, latte and other milk textures and temperatures. It won't create the super-smooth microfoam that you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modding and lots of practice however, it can make a deliciously smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has a reservoir that is removable, making it easy to refill and clean. It's also extremely light and compact, which helps it fit easily into small spaces. It also has a glass lid that's easy to clear, which is an important feature for those who have a small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than the other models, is worth the extra price. It's user-friendly and has a variety of amazing features, such as an auto-steam wand that will make your milk frothy for you. It's the ideal choice for anyone who would like a great cup of coffee at home. Find out if you're approved and earn 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 when you purchase the 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 comes with numerous of the essential features you would expect to find in a more expensive espresso machine, like a digital PID that controls the temperature to within a few degrees and an insulated steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit to allow near-simultaneous brewing and steaming. It also has a number of energy efficiency features, such as an optional eco mode that automatically puts the machine into standby after a set time of inactivity, as well as an insulated boiler and a short water path that helps reduce heat loss.
In addition as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a high-quality professional-grade 58mm portafilter. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and ensures that your espresso beans are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This will result in a more consistent and better-tasting espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This lets you fine-tune the pressure that is exerted on your coffee during extraction which allows you to play with different flavor profiles and techniques. This is a fantastic feature for coffee enthusiasts especially since a lot of espresso machines leave 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 new users to use. However, it has some advanced features that will be appealing to baristas with more experience in the home. For instance the PID display doubles as a shot timer, which will allow you to easily monitor your shots and ensure they are brewed perfectly. There are also lights next to the steam and brew buttons to notify you when you have achieved enough pressure and temperature to allow brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its high-end quality and workmanship. This is an item that will give you years of solid performance and reliable service, especially when you maintain it properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for making some outstanding home espresso machines and even a few commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that a lot of reviewers are admiring the Steel Duo PID. But, I think it gets overshadowed by other machines with more impressive feature-sets and a higher price tag.
This machine features dual thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions and accurate milk frothing. The PID on this machine allows you to adjust brewing temperatures in one-degree increments. This level of precision is usually reserved for machines that cost a lot of money. It also features a display that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit instead of at the boiler or thermoblock. This is a welcome departure from the traditional digital display that is common to home espresso machines which use blue digits.
Another excellent feature is the large, active heated cup warmer. Its steam wand has an easy-to-use, non-burn feature that automatically purges after every use. It is also programmable to allow two pre-infusions, which means that you can set the time for which the portafilter should be soaked prior to proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have a few minor issues, overall it's an excellent espresso machine. Its quick heating time 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 and the low-power of steam are two points that I would criticize, but this is an excellent choice for those who love espresso at home. If you're willing to spend a little more it, the Ascaso is worth the price for its additional features and a premium appearance.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for a classic espresso machine that can give you the most value for your money Look at the Rancilio Silvia. The Silvia comes with an individual boiler to make and steaming coffee. It is simple to use, and comes in a variety colors to complement the style of your home.
The Silvia features a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to take off and clean as well as maintain. The Silvia comes with an adjustable reservoir that can be get more info filled while the machine is being used. It also comes with 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 create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will surely impress your guests. The brewing control knobs on the Silvia are simple to comprehend, allowing you to select your desired extraction as well as the brewing time to create a customized drink. 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 an Italian family-owned business that takes pride in its craftsmanship and quality. They stay in constant contact with their customers, and take feedback. They create products that are refined by the smallest of little details.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning to make espresso at home. It could also be a replacement for a moka pot if you're a barista. The biggest downside to this machine is that it doesn't have an exchanger for heat, which means you'll have to wait for a few minutes between making milk-based beverages.
It is also important to note that the company puts every Silvia through a stringent series of tests, so that you can be certain that your equipment is safe to use. If you find there's any issue with your Silvia it comes with a one-year guarantee.