Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of a variety of high-end commercial machines currently available to consumers.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, but do most of the work.
This model is designed for people who take espresso as a hobby and want to have full control over the brewing procedure.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a favorite for espresso enthusiasts. It's simple to use and has all the features you need to get a great espresso shot every time. It's ideal for those who want to improve their coffee making skills, but aren't yet ready to invest in the top of the line commercial equipment.
Its low-pressure pre-infusion as well as stepped up high-pressure extraction ensure that the beans are evenly pressed to ensure a balanced flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots at the touch of a button. This can be very beneficial to achieve consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating technology, which means you won't have to wait around for it to get to the ideal temperature in the morning. It will be ready to use in just three seconds which is a lot quicker than other models.
Even the most novice user will have no trouble pulling a perfect shot with this espresso machine because of the steam-powered automatic wand. It can create a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, as well as presets for cappuccinos and lattes and more. It won't produce the super-smooth, microfoam you get with a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires modifying and lots of practice. However, it can produce an incredibly smooth and creamy latte or a cappuccino.
This model comes with a water reservoir that is removable that makes it simple to clean and refill. It's also lightweight and compact which makes it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It also has a glass counter that is easy to clean, another important aspect for those with a small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is worth the extra cost. It is easy to use, and has numerous great features. One of it is the auto-steam wand which will make milk froth for you. This is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to make a delicious cup at home. Check to see if you're approved - earn up to 10% in rewards1 + free shipping8 today with a new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a professional espresso machine that isn't too much and isn't too expensive, the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It comes with many features you'd expect to find in an espresso machine that is more expensive, including a digital PID which controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also has an actual steam wand that is connected to its own heating system for fast steaming and the brewing. It also comes with a variety of energy-saving features, including an eco mode that automatically sets the machine in standby mode after a certain period of inactivity, and an insulated boiler and short water path that help reduce the loss of heat.
As an additional bonus, as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a premium, professional-grade portafilter that measures 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines, and it helps ensure that your beans are evenly spread during extraction. This results in a more delicious and evenly-distributed espresso.
Another thing that sets 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 test different styles and flavors. This is an excellent 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 their explanation springs to mind).
The Diletta Mio has a simple user interface that makes it easy for novices to use. However, it has some advanced features that will be appealing to baristas with more experience in the home. The PID display can be used as a shot timer, permitting you to keep track of your shots with ease and ensure they're perfect brewed. There are lights next to the brew and steam buttons to inform you that you have created enough pressure and temperature to allow the brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio is made in Italy which is a testimony to its high-end quality and workmanship. This is an appliance that will give you years of reliable performance and reliable service, particularly when it is maintained properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for making excellent espresso machines for home use and even a few commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will reveal dozens of reviewers swooning over it. However, I believe it gets overshadowed by other machines with more impressive feature-sets and a higher price tag.
This machine has dual thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk foaming. Its PID allows you to adjust the brewing temperature in one-degree increments, which is a degree of precision normally reserved for larger machines. It also has a display that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit rather than the boiler or thermoblock. This is a welcome change from the majority of espresso machines at home that use a simple digital display with blue numerals.
Another excellent feature is the large, active heated cup warmer. Its steam wand is easy to use and comes with a non-burn function that auto-purges after each use. It can also be programmed to allow two pre-infusions so that you can set the time for which the portafilter needs to be soaked prior to proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite some minor issues. Its rapid heating process and precise temperatures ensure your coffee is always at the right temperature. Additionally, the pre-infusion programable helps you to improve your shot-making skills.
I would give it by a few points due to the plastic tamper that comes with it and its shockingly low steam power, but overall it is a great option for espresso lovers who want to make their own. The Ascaso is worth the extra money for its elegant design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
Rancilio Silvia is the perfect espresso machine for those looking for the most value for money. The Silvia comes with one boiler that can be used to brew and steamed coffee. It's easy to use, and comes in a variety colors to match the aesthetic of your home.
The Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to take off and clean, as well as maintain. This machine has an adjustable water reservoir that can be topped off when the machine is running, as well as an automatic shutoff function and an adjustable temperature dial that keeps your drinks at the right temperature for a perfect coffee experience.
Lastly, the steam wand in this machine is commercial grade and lets you create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that are sure to impress your friends. The brewing control knobs on the Silvia are simple to comprehend, allowing you to select the desired extraction and brew time for a custom drink. The Silvia has proven to be reliable, durable and long-lasting since its 1997 release.
Rancilio is a family-owned company that takes pride in their craftsmanship and quality. They stay in constant contact with their customers, and take feedback. They develop products that are perfected by the smallest of details.
This machine is ideal for those who are just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It can also be a great upgrade from moka pots if your a barista. The biggest downside to this machine is that it does not have an exchanger for heat, which means you'll need to wait for a few minutes before making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests so that you can be sure that your machine will work safely. If you discover that there is any issue with your Silvia manufacturer, they offer a one-year guarantee.