Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of many commercial machines are now available for consumers.
These heftier systems demand more precision from the user to ensure grinding, tamping and extraction time, but they do much of the work.
This model is designed for those who views espresso as an important pastime and wants complete control over the espresso process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a cult favorite among espresso lovers. It's user-friendly and has all the features you need to ensure a top espresso shot every time. It's a great choice for those who want to improve their coffee-making abilities but aren't ready to spend the money on an expensive commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion process, along with the high-pressure extraction guarantees that the beans are evenly pressed to produce a balanced taste. 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 uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This means you don't need to wait for it to reach the right temperature in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in only three seconds which is much quicker than most other machines.
Even the most novice of users will be able to pull off a great shot using this espresso machine because of the steam-powered automatic wand. It comes with presets for cappuccinos, latte, and other milk textures and temperatures. It won't create the super-smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires mods and plenty of practice, but it will still create a smooth and creamy cappuccino or latte.
This model has a water reservoir that is removable which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also very lightweight and compact, which helps it fit nicely in tight spaces. It also has a glass lid that is easy to clean, which is an important feature for those who have a small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is worth the extra price. It's simple to use and comes with many great features. One of it is the auto-steam wand that will froth milk for you. This is the ideal choice for anyone looking to make a fantastic cup at home. Check if you're pre-approved. earn up to 10% back in rewards1 and free shipping8 today with the brand new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a professional espresso machine that isn't too much, the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It has many features that you'd expect to find in the higher-end espresso machines, including the digital PID that controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also has an actual steam wand that is that is connected to its own heating system that allows for fast steaming and the brewing. It has many energy-saving options, including eco mode, which will automatically shut off the machine after a specific time of inactivity.
In addition, as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a professional-grade, high-quality 58mm portafilter. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and helps ensure that your beans are evenly spread during extraction. This will result in a more uniform and better-tasting espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to alter the pressure applied on the grounds of your coffee during extraction. You can experiment with different methods and flavors. This is a fantastic option for those who love coffee as a lot of espresso machines are sold with a pressure that is too high.
The Diletta Mio is easy to use for beginners due to its easy-to-use interface. However, it has several advanced features that draw more experienced home baristas. For instance, the PID display doubles as a shot timer, which will let you easily monitor your shots and ensure they are made to perfection. The brew and steam buttons are illuminated to inform you when you've reached the right temperature and pressure to begin making steam or brewing.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its high-end quality and craftsmanship. This machine will give you years of reliable service and solid performance, especially if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for making an impressive espresso machine for home use and even a few commercial models. A quick YouTube search will reveal that many reviewers are drooling over the Steel Duo PID. However, I think it gets overshadowed by other models with more impressive features and higher prices.
The machine is equipped with two thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions as well as accurate milk foaming. The PID on this machine allows you to adjust brewing temperatures in one-degree increments. This degree of precision is typically reserved for high-end machines. It also has a display that displays the temperature of brewing at the brew unit, rather than at the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing change from most espresso machines in the home that use a simple digital display with blue numbers.
Another great feature is the large, active heated cup warmer. Its steam wand is easy to use and has an auto-purge feature that doesn't burn after each use. It's also programmable for two sets of pre-infusion that allows you to program the desired amount of time to soak the portafilter 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 that your coffee is always made at the optimal temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion will help you improve your shot-making techniques.
The plastic tamper and the low-power of steam are two aspects that I'd like to point out however, this is an excellent choice for espresso lovers at home. If you're willing to spend more it, the Ascaso is worth the price for its extra features and its premium design.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for a classic espresso machine that can give you the best bang for your money, look at the Rancilio Silvia. The Silvia features an individual boiler to make and steamed coffee. It is easy to use, and comes in a variety of colours to match the design of your home.
The Silvia comes with stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are simple to clean and remove. The Silvia has an adjustable reservoir which can be filled up while the machine is being used. It also comes try what he says with an automatic shutoff feature as well as an adjustable temperature dial to keep your drinks at just the perfect temperature.
The steam wand is commercial quality and will allow you to make lattes and cappuccinos that are silky smooth that will impress your guests. The Silvia's brewing controls can be simple to operate and allow you to personalize your drink by choosing the desired extraction time and brew temperature. The Silvia has proven to be durable, reliable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned company which is proud of their craftsmanship and quality. They stay constantly in contact with their community, and take feedback. They develop products that are perfected through the tiny little details.
This machine is perfect for those just beginning to make espresso at home. It could also be a replacement for a moka pot if you're a barista. The biggest drawback of this machine is that it does not have a heat exchanger, so you'll need to wait for a minute or two between making milk-based beverages.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests to be sure that your machine will operate safely. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty if you find any issues.