Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of several commercial machines of the highest quality are currently available to customers.
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 people who enjoy espresso as a hobby and want complete control over the process of brewing.
The Bambino Plus
This small beauty is made by Breville is a top pick for many espresso aficionados. 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 those who want to improve their coffee-making skills but aren't quite 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 ground beans will be evenly pressed, resulting in a balanced taste. You can also program distinct output volumes for two shots and one at the touch of the button, which is very beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating technology which lets it warm up quickly in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in just three seconds which is much faster than other models.
Even the most novice user will be able to pull off an excellent shot with this espresso machine due to the automatic steam wand. It is able to create a broad range of milk temperatures and textures, along with presets for cappuccinos and lattes and much more. It's not going to create the super-smooth, microfoam you get with a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires modding and a lot of practice. But it can make a smooth, creamy latté or a cappuccino.
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 makes it easy to fit into small 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 well worth the extra price. It's easy to use and comes with excellent features, including an automatic steam wand that can froth your milk for you. It's the perfect option for anyone who wants the perfect cup of espresso at home. Find out if your pre-approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 and free shipping8 when you purchase a Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're in the market for a professional espresso machine that won't cost too much, the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It comes with numerous of the essential features you'd expect to find in a more expensive espresso machine, including a digital PID which regulates 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 comes with a variety of energy-saving features, such as eco mode, which automatically shuts off the machine after a set time of inactivity.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industrial-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and ensures that your grounds are evenly spread during extraction. This means you get a better tasting and more evenly-distributed espresso.
Another characteristic that makes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is an adjustable OPV valve. This gives you the ability to adjust the pressure exerted on the coffee grounds during extraction. You can experiment with different methods and flavors. This is an excellent option for those who love coffee since many espresso machines are sold with the pressure too high.
The Diletta Mio has a simple user interface that is simple for novices to use. However, it also has some advanced features that will appeal to baristas with more experience in the home. For instance, the PID display doubles as a shot timer to enable you to easily track your shots and ensure they are made to perfection. The brew and Steam buttons are lit up to let you know if you've reached the correct temperature and pressure best home espresso machine for making steam or brewing.
In addition, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy this speaks to its quality and workmanship. This is a machine that will provide you with years of solid performance and reliable service, particularly if you keep it well-maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer that is known for its production of 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 show dozens of reviewers swooning over it. I do believe that it's overshadowed, however, by other machines that have more impressive features and a higher cost.
This machine comes with dual thermoblocks for steady espresso extractions and precise milk foaming. The PID lets you adjust the brewing temperature in one-degree increments, a degree of precision that is usually reserved for larger machines. It also displays the temperature of the brew at the brew unit rather than the boiler or thermoblock. This is a welcome change from most home espresso machines which use a basic digital display that has blue numbers.
It also comes with a large, active heated cup warmer, which is a great feature. The steam wand comes with an easy-to-use non-burn feature that automatically cleanses after each use. It can also be programmed to allow two pre-infusion sets that allows you to program in the amount you want to soak the portafilter before continuing with the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have some minor issues, overall it's an excellent home espresso machine. Its rapid heating process and precise temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always at the perfect temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion allows you to perfect your shot-making techniques.
I would give it a few points for the plastic tamper that comes with it and its surprising low steam power, but overall it is a great choice for home espresso lovers. If you're willing some more then the Ascaso is worth the price for its extra features and its premium design.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for an old-fashioned espresso machine that can give you the most bang for your buck then look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. With a single boiler that is heated for brewing and steaming the Silvia is easy to use and can be purchased in various colors to complement the style of your home.
The Silvia comes with stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are simple to clean and remove. This machine comes with a water reservoir that is removable and can be filled when the machine is in operation as well as an automatic shutoff function as well as an adjustable temperature dial that ensures your drinks are at the ideal temperature for the ideal coffee experience.
Finally, the steam wand on this machine is commercial grade and allows you to create silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that are sure to impress your guests. The Silvia's brewing controls can be simple to use and allow you to personalize your drink by choosing the desired extraction time and brew temperature. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable, and reliable, which is why it has been able to stand the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned business that takes pride in its craftsmanship and quality. They stay in close contact with their community of espresso lovers, observing feedback and designing products that get the smallest important details right.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be a great upgrade from moka pots if you're a barista. The main drawback to this machine is that it doesn't have a heat exchanger, so you'll have to wait a minute or two between making milk-based beverages.
It is also important to note that the company puts each and every Silvia through a rigorous set of tests, so you can be certain that the machine is safe to use. If you discover that there's a problem with your Silvia it comes with one-year warranties.