The Best Home Espresso Machine
Superautomatic espresso machines are a great alternative for those who do not have barista experience but still would like to enjoy premium coffee at home. These machines have electronic features that are automatic and provide convenience. They heat quickly, and they don't require any counter space.
This model has a programmable volumetric dose and an adjustable preinfusion. It also includes steam wand as well as a commercial-grade group head.
1. Breville Bambino Plus
Despite its cute name, the Bambino Plus is a serious espresso machine. It is packed with features that make it a good choice for anyone who wants to upgrade from the basic Breville espresso machines or need a more automated alternative than manual.
It uses an PID controller that handles the temperature and pressure control, which means it's ready for brewing when you press the button. It makes use of a technology referred to as Thermo jet which allows it heat up in only 3 seconds. This means that you will make your coffee faster than other espresso machines at home.
The machine was designed with simplicity in mind. There is only one button that controls everything. You can choose either a single or double shot as well as choose the brewing time as well, which is something you're required to manually like other espresso machines of this price range. The polished stainless finish gives it a classy appearance, and its compact dimensions are ideal for those with a small counter space or a smaller kitchen.
The Bambino Plus includes everything you require to get started making your own. It comes with a metal 54mm tamper as well as a dose trimming tool. This is the only machine of its kind that can do this. It shows how Breville wants to make their products as foolproof and reliable as possible. It also comes with built-in reminders for cleaning and descaling to ensure it runs smoothly.
The Bambino Plus may be the most affordable espresso machine for those who are new to the world of espresso. It's simple to use and has a quick heat-up time and does a decent job of automatically blending milk for you. However, its cost could make it beyond the reach of some people.
2. De'Longhi Stilosa
The De'Longhi Stilosa is a well-rounded, budget-friendly manual espresso machine that is suitable for beginners and coffee aficionados alike. It's user-friendly, looks nice on the counter and makes good espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes. However, it does have a few drawbacks that should be taken into consideration.
In our metrics for brewing we found that the Stilosa scored below average to average for its brew quality and control. This was due to the small size of the filter baskets, as well as the lack of temperature control. Both of these issues make it difficult to customize extraction. We liked that this machine heats up quickly and that the spout is able to be adjusted to a good height.
The unit also comes with a convenient water reservoir that can hold up to 34 ounces. It has a built in indicator for the level to let you know when to refill. It is removable, which is beneficial if you have to clean it or don't have access an indoor sink. This model also has an adjustable drip pan that allows you to use taller cups underneath the spout.
Stilosa was also a disappointment on our steaming metrics. This resulted from its lack of control of the temperature of steam and the absence of pre-infusion features. Both of these are features that are common in machines that cost more. Despite its flaws we liked its ease of maintain and comes with a one-year warranty. The De'Longhi Stilosa is a great option for a home coffee bar. It's a bit easier to use than the other models we've tested and will reduce the cost of the cost of cafe drinks.
3. Breville Barista Express Impress
The Breville Barista Express Impress (that's a mouthful I bet!) This machine is intended for people who are new who are interested in espresso. This single pump-driven boiler is designed to make it simple for anyone to make an espresso shot without sacrificing flavor or consistency of the brewing.
First of all it takes the guesswork out of changing the grinder, tamper, and brew group settings using its simple-to-use controls. You can also select between single or double shots and choose the desired temperature. The built-in thermocoil heater makes sure that your espresso is ready to use in 30 seconds. This is a lot faster than the 30-minute wait most single boiler machines require to reach temperature.
The "impressive" dosing-and-tamping device that works with the tamper dials in the right amount of ground coffee per shot. The system utilizes an integrated sensor to gauge the depth of the basket and adjusts the amount of ground coffee dispersed. If you're not sure that you can control the grind size and temperature of the water the machine has presets that may help.
Finally, the Barista Express Impress includes the famous single-hole steam wand that can create some impressive artworks of latte also. This is the same wand that is found in Breville's top-of-the-line Barista Express machines, and it works great.
I'm not a fan of coffee shortcuts, fully automated machines, or pods. However, the Impress does exactly what it says without being daunting or taking the enjoyment out of preparing an espresso. I'm pleased with it and recommend it to everyone!
4. Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great choice for home baristas who value quality, design and convenience. Its sleek design, professional grade components, and consistent performance make it an espresso maker eye-catching addition to your coffee bar. Beginners can also benefit from this machine because it lets them learn about steaming and espresso without having to worry about programming or the complexity.
One of the most striking features of this machine is its brew boiler controlled by PID that guarantees quick warm up times and a stable temperature. This is important, especially for espresso, because even small variations in temperature of the water can alter the taste and quality of the espresso.
The Diletta's steaming thermoblock is another feature that stands out. It lets you steam milk and make espresso at the simultaneously. This will save you lots of time and ensure that your milk is the right texture. This saves energy as it only requires energy only when it is required.
This machine has an indicator of pressure on the head of the group. It's a nice feature, as it lets you check the pressure of your extraction in real time. You can alter the OPV to get a more precise extraction. This is a feature that's usually reserved for machines that cost more.
Other important features of the Diletta include its easy-to-clean side-accessible water tank, as well as its optional energy saver mode, which can be adjusted in increments of 10 minutes that can last up to two hours. Its insulated boiler wrap further reduces heat loss. Its dual-temperature system minimizes static electricity, resulting in less waste and lower energy costs.
However, some customers have reported issues with the longevity of this machine and long repair times. Diletta has also been criticized for its poor customer support and inability to resolve warranty problems.
5. Jura E8
This premium super-automatic machine offers an array of specialty drinks that are made at the push of a single button. It also makes macchiatos, ristrettos and cappuccinos, flat whites and teas and plain hot chocolate, plain coffee and plain espresso. This machine is distinguished by its cutting-edge technology for brewing and stylish display in color.
The E8 makes use of an Aroma G3 grinder for a quick and accurate grind of whole beans. It has eight grind settings which may seem a lot when compared to other super automatics that only have 3 or 4. But the fact is, the higher range gives you greater control over the size and consistency of your grind, and this is essential to ensure a perfect cup of coffee.
In addition to its powerful burr grinder, the Jura E8 has an intelligent pre-infusion system and a pulse extraction process that are both responsible for making a top-quality cup of espresso each time. The PEP process uses short bursts of water to force the coffee through the grinder, which allows for full flavor extraction. The resultant cup is richer and fuller, as well as more flavorful than the average instant coffee that comes from a Keurig.
The Jura E8 can make a variety of drinks and does it very well. It makes a robust, smooth cappuccino and an excellent espresso. The only issue is that it's not able to make an espresso. This requires a steam high pressure boiler to produce an extremely thick, foamy the foam.
Like many super automated machines however, this one does require some maintenance, however, it is quite easy to keep clean. It will descale automatically and self-clean after every use. It is easy to program it to perform a more thorough cleaning every year, or at least twice. It will remind you to change the filter every 80 drinks.