Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of several commercial machines are can now be purchased by consumers.
These heavier systems require more precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, but they do the majority of the work.
This model is for someone who views espresso as an important pastime and wants complete control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
This small beauty from Breville is a top choice for many coffee lovers. It's easy to use and comes with all the features you need to ensure a top espresso shot every time. It's perfect for those looking to improve their skills in coffee making, but don't want to spend a lot of money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion system and the accelerated high-pressure extraction will ensure that the beans are evenly pressed for the best flavor. You can also set different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots by pressing of a button. This is very helpful to ensure consistency in 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 optimal temperature in the early morning. It'll be ready for use in just three second which is significantly quicker than other models.
Even the most novice of users will have no trouble pulling a perfect shot using this espresso machine thanks to the automatic steam wand. It comes with presets that can create cappuccinos, latte, and other milk textures and temperatures. It won't produce the super-smooth, microfoam you get with a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires modding and lots of practice. But it will still produce a smooth, creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with a reservoir that is removable, making it easy to refill and clean. It's also compact and lightweight, making it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It has a glass top that is easy to clean, which is an important aspect for those who have limited counter space.
While it's a little bit more expensive than some other models however, the Bambino Plus is worth the additional cost. It's user-friendly and offers excellent features, including an automatic steam wand that will create froth for your milk. It's the perfect option for anyone who wants an excellent cup of coffee at home. Find out if you're approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 along with free shipping8 when you purchase the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great alternative if you're in the market for an affordable espresso maker for your home. It has many features that you'd expect to find in an espresso machine that is more expensive, including the digital PID that controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also comes with an insulated steam wand, which is connected to its own heating system that allows for fast steaming and making. It comes with a variety of energy-saving features, such as an eco mode that automatically shuts off the machine after a specific time of inactivity.
The Diletta Mio also comes with a professional-grade portafilter of 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and helps ensure that your grounds are evenly spread during extraction. This, in turn, results in a more consistent and better-tasting espresso.
Another thing that distinguishes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is the adjustable OPV valve. This gives you the ability to adjust the pressure exerted on your coffee grounds during extraction. You can experiment with different flavors and techniques. This is a great feature for coffee lovers especially since a lot of espresso machines are shipped out of the factory with the pressure set too high (the Rancilio Silvia springs to mind).
The Diletta Mio has a simple user interface that is simple for novices to use. However, it has several advanced features that appeal to more experienced baristas at home. The PID display can be used as a shot-timer permitting you to keep track of your shots easily and ensure they're made to perfection. The Steam and Brew buttons are illuminated to inform you when you've reached the right temperature and pressure to begin steaming or brewing.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its high-end quality and workmanship. This machine will give you years of reliable service and solid performance, especially if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso the Spanish manufacturer, is known for its top-quality home espresso machines. They also produce a few commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will reveal dozens espresso machines for home of reviewers who are drooling over it. However, I believe it is a bit overshadowed by machines with more impressive feature-sets and a higher price tag.
This machine has dual thermoblocks that ensure stable espresso extractions, as well as accurate milk frothing. The PID in this machine lets you adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments. This degree of precision is normally reserved for high-end 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 the standard digital display on most home espresso machines which use blue digits.
It also comes with a large, active heated cup warmer, which is a excellent feature. The steam wand features an easy-to-use non-burn feature that automatically purge after every use. It is also programmable to allow two pre-infusions, so you can set the time for which the portafilter must be soaked before proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso has a few minor issues, it's an excellent home espresso machine. The Ascaso's quick heat-up time and precise temperature settings as well as its speedy heating ensure that your coffee will always be made at the ideal temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion helps you perfect your shot-making techniques.
I would knock it down a few points for the included plastic tamper and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall this is an excellent choice for home espresso lovers. If you're willing to pay more then the Ascaso is definitely worth it for its additional features and a premium appearance.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking to buy a classic espresso machine that gives you the most bang for your buck Look at the Rancilio Silvia. The Silvia features a single boiler for brewing and steaming coffee. It is simple to use and comes in a variety colours to match the design of your home.
Silvia Silvia features a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to take off, clean and maintain. This machine comes with a water reservoir that is removable and can be topped off when the machine is in operation and also has an automatic shutoff function as well as a temperature dial that ensures your drinks are at the perfect temperature for a perfect coffee experience.
The steam wand is commercial quality and will allow you to make silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your guests. The Silvia's brewing controls are easy to operate 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 first release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned company that is proud of its craftsmanship and quality. They stay in constant contact with their customers, and listen to feedback. They develop products that are perfected by the smallest of aspects.
This machine is an ideal choice for people who are just starting their journey into making espresso at home, but it can also be a great upgrade to an old moka pot in the hands of a professional barista. The machine isn't equipped with a heat exchanger, which means you'll have to wait several minutes between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth mentioning 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 operate. If you do find that there is any issue with your Silvia, the manufacturer offers one-year warranties.