Finding the Best Espresso Machine
A top espresso machine can make cafe-quality drinks with a push of a button. However, finding the best one is contingent on your needs and your level of skill.
Fully automated machines can handle everything for you. However, they are expensive and do not allow you to experiment. Manual models let you manage the process but are more likely to make mistakes.
1. Wacaco Picopresso
If you want a portable espresso maker that can make the perfect double shot then the Wacaco Picopresso is one of the best choices around. It's not expensive, but it feels high-end and comes with a 2-year warranty. The Wacaco coffee maker is the most professional. This means it's the smallest, but also the most efficient in making premium espresso.
Picopresso does not rely on electricity, but relies on a hand-pump that creates pressure that can reach 18 bar. This is enough to make a double shot of espresso with a thick, rich crema that's better than what you can expect from the majority of third-wave cafes. The Picopresso is compact enough to fit into the palm of your hand. It also has an authentic leather sleeve to keep it cool while using it to extract espresso.
The most compact manual espresso machine made by Wacaco, it still feels substantial. It's made of metal and robust plastic parts, and all the accessories included are also durable. The set includes a stainless-steel funnel and tamper that is ergonomic as well as a plastic distribution device that will help you get an even puck.
There aren't any fancy steam wands, milk carafes, or steam wands on this model, but it does include mirrors to observe your bottomless filter extractions in peace. It's a nice touch and is in line with the Picopresso's traveling friendly ethos. Picopresso stands can be used at home to brew.
This allows you to heat the piston and pump hot water through it prior to when you begin brewing your espresso. It's a good idea as this ensures that you get the best results from your Picopresso by removing all of the essential oils out of the coffee you grind. It's important to note that making use of the Picopresso is time-consuming. This is especially true if you follow Wacaco’s recommendations for weighing your beans and adjusting the tamping pressure in order to get an excellent espresso every time.
2. Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia espresso machine is a great option for those who wish to learn how to make espresso. This single boiler, semi-automatic espresso machine is well-known for its longevity and durability. Many reviewers compare it with the Gaggia Classic Pro and claim that the coffee is of similar quality. The stainless cup tray made of steel and the steam wand feature a sleek design to complement any kitchen design.
This coffee maker features an iron boiler that is capable of achieving the perfect temperature for brewing espresso. It also features a thermostat that prevents the boiler from overheating. The Silvia also includes an insulated steam wand, which lets you create rich creamy steamed milk for macchiatos and cappuccinos. The brewing unit is also constructed of high-quality, durable materials that are easy to clean and maintain.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an espresso machine is its ease of use. The Silvia features a comfortable portafilter and an easy-to-use four-rocker interface which makes it simple to use. It also has an ejector that can be removed and a drip tray that is easy to clean. The machine comes with a safety feature that shuts off the heating element off when it has been running for 30 minutes.
The soft infusion feature is another characteristic that makes the Silvia stand out from other espresso machines. This feature reduces pressure applied to coffee grounds during brewing. This helps to preserve the quality and taste of the beans. It's available in two settings that can be altered according to the kind of espresso you're making.
Espresso enthusiasts can upgrade the Silvia to increase its functionality. This machine does come with a shot-timer as well as a pressure pump that can be programmed, but is compatible with a variety of accessories from the aftermarket, go now including PID controllers.
The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine for beginners and experienced baristas too. Its basic design doesn't offer the level of customization that more sophisticated espresso makers require, but it still produces excellent, high-quality espresso. It's also a great choice for those who are seeking to improve their barista abilities because it gives the feedback required to make better shots every time.
3. Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus is an entry-level machine, yet it offers a lot of the features that professional baristas need. It comes with a powerful steam tool that creates microfoam which can be used in latte art. It also has a high-quality metal tamper and stainless steel milk jug that is ideal for making cappuccinos and lattes. The Bambino Plus has a PID temperature control system that ensures an even temperature to ensure consistent results.
The most appealing aspect is that the Bambino Plus has a compact footprint. It's among the most compact espresso machines available which makes it perfect for small spaces. It is ready to heat up in just three seconds, which means you can use it immediately after the button is pressed. This is the same technology Breville employed in its Oracle line, which means you'll get a top-of-the-line espresso machine at a reasonable cost.
The Bambino Plus, like its siblings is a well-made machine that's easy for you to clean and use. It is available in brushed stainless that gives it an elegant look and feel at an affordable price. It also comes with a tamper portafilter, and stainless milk jug made of stainless steel.
This is among the most affordable espresso machines on sale, and it's a great choice for anyone who wants to improve their morning routine without costing a fortune. It's the cheapest espresso machine that can produce high-quality cafe-quality espresso and steamed milk at home, and it's also one of the easiest to use and clean.
Although the Bambino Plus doesn't come with a grinder however, you can use any espresso-quality grinder to use it. It doesn't have the ability to preinfuse. However you can easily solve the issue by running hot water several times through the portafilter before making the shot. You'll also need to flush and descale the boiler periodically to ensure it's running smoothly. As long as you flush it regularly and follow the guidelines it shouldn't face any issues with maintenance or buildup. If you want to make certain, you can purchase an inexpensive descaler on the internet.
4. Philips 3200 Series
The Philips 3200 Series comes with numerous great features. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking to get started with espresso making but doesn't want much money. This machine costs less than half as our second best option which is the Gaggia Cadorna Prestige. It is still capable of producing delicious drinks. However the Cadorna has a few more coffee options including 4 user profiles for saving drinks as well as a better grinder, but it's usually on sale so you may be able to get it for less.
This machine is a great option for those who love latte and cappuccino but don't need a full variety of espresso flavors. It also makes good iced coffee which is becoming more and more popular in home coffee machines. The 3200 also has a dedicated brewing option that makes use of a lower temperature to brew coffee iced so that it doesn't muddle the flavor.
Like the other machines on this list like others, the Philips 3200 can use both whole and ground beans. It comes with a large hopper for both and is simple to fill. You can also alter the size of the grind to suit your preferences. This machine has a bypass doser, which is ideal for those who want to brew caffeine but do not want decaf.
If you prefer milk-based drinks, the Philips has a LatteGo system that can serve heated or frothed milk in a single step. It is among the easiest milk frothing machines to use. It is also able to heat and froth other milks such as almond, soy and Oat.
It's not quietest machine, but it is quieter than other models. It's not nearly as loud as a professional espresso machine, but it's comparable to what you might hear in your local coffee shop. The only downside is the time it takes to warm up. This can be adjusted by altering the settings.