Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, as do the options for consumers. Many top-rated commercial machines that are of the highest quality are now accessible to consumers as models for prosumers.
These heavier systems require more precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, yet do most of the work.
This model is designed for those who views espresso as a serious hobby and wants complete control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's small beauty is a favorite for espresso enthusiasts. It's user-friendly and comes with all the features you need to make a perfect espresso shot every time. It's perfect for those looking to improve their coffee-making skills, but aren't yet ready to splurge on the top of the line commercial equipment.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, when combined with the high pressure extraction guarantees that the beans are evenly pressed, resulting in a balanced taste. You can also program different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots by pressing of a single button. This is extremely helpful to achieve consistently good results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This means you won'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 much faster than other models.
Even the novice can pull off an excellent shot with this espresso machine thanks to the automatic steam wand. It can create a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, as well as presets for cappuccinos, lattes, and more. It won't create the super-smooth microfoam 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 cappuccino or latte.
This model has a removable water reservoir that makes it simple to clean and refill. It's also very lightweight and compact, which makes it fit nicely into small spaces. It also has a glass lid that is easy to keep clean, which is an important aspect for those with limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is worth the extra cost. It's simple to use, and has numerous great features. One of them is the auto-steam wand, which will froth milk for you. This is the ideal option for anyone who wants to make a fantastic cup at home. See if you're pre-approved - earn up to 10% back in rewards1 + free shipping8 today by using the brand new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're in the market for a prosumer espresso machine that doesn'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, including a digital PID that controls the temperature to within a few degrees and a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit for fast steaming and brewing at the same time. It also has a number of energy efficiency features including an eco mode that automatically sets the machine into standby after a set 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 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 results in a more delicious and evenly-distributed espresso.
Another feature that makes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is its adjustable OPV valve. This allows you to adjust the pressure exerted on the grounds of your coffee during extraction. You can test different methods and flavors. This is an excellent 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 simple interface. However, it has several advanced features that be appealing to baristas with more experience in the home. The PID display can be used as a shot timer, allowing you to monitor your shots without difficulty and ensure they are brewed perfectly. The brew and steam buttons have lights that let you know if you've reached the correct temperature and pressure to begin brewing or steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its high-end quality and workmanship. This is a machine that will provide you with years of reliable performance and reliable service, especially when you maintain it properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for producing some outstanding home espresso machines and even a few commercial models. A quick YouTube search will reveal that a lot of reviewers are drooling at the Steel Duo PID. I do believe that it is overshadowed, however by other models that have more impressive features and cost more.
This machine features dual thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk foaming. Its PID allows you to adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one-degree increments, a degree of precision that is usually reserved for larger machines. It also displays a graph that displays the temperature of brewing at the brew unit, instead of at the boiler or thermoblock. This is a refreshing departure from most home espresso machines that rely on a simple digital display with blue numerals.
It also comes with a large, active heated cup warmer, which is another excellent feature. The steam wand is simple to use and comes with an auto-purge feature that doesn't burn after every use. It's also programmable to allow two pre-infusion sets which means you can program the time you'd like to soak the portafilter before continuing with the extraction.
While the Ascaso has a few minor issues, overall it's a great home espresso machine. The Ascaso's fast heat-up time, precise temperatures and fast heating ensure that your coffee will always be brewed at the right temperature. Additionally, the programmable infusion allows you to perfect your shot-making technique.
I would slash it down one point for the plastic tamper that comes with it and its shockingly low steam power, but overall it is a great option for those who love home espresso. The Ascaso is worth the extra cost for its premium look and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine for those looking for the best bang-for-your-buck. The Silvia has a single boiler for brewing and steaming coffee. It is easy to use and comes in a variety colours to match the design of your home.
The Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to take off and clean, as well as maintain. This machine features an ejector that can be filled while the machine is being used. It also has an automatic shutoff feature as well as a temperature dial that will ensure that your drinks are at the perfect temperature.
Lastly, the steam wand that comes with this machine is commercial grade and lets you make 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 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 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 enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and designing products that get the smallest important details right.
This machine is a great choice for people who are just starting their journey into making espresso at home, but it can also be a solid upgrade from an old moka maker under the supervision of a professional barista. The machine doesn't have a heat exchanger, which means you'll have to Full Guide wait for several minutes between making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through an extensive series of tests so that you can be sure that your machine will work safely. If you find there is a problem with your Silvia it comes with one-year warranties.