Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of many high-end commercial machines currently available to consumers.
These heavier systems require more precision from the user for grinding and tamping, as well as extraction time, yet they do most of the work for you.
This model is designed for those who use espresso as a pastime and want complete control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
This little beauty is made by Breville is a top-pick for a lot of espresso lovers. It's user-friendly and has all the features you need to ensure a top espresso shot every time. It's ideal for people looking to improve their coffee-making skills, but don't want to spend a lot of money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
Its low-pressure pre-infusion as well as stepped up high-pressure extraction ensure that the beans are evenly crushed for the best flavor. You can also program different output volumes for one and two-shots with the click of a button, which is extremely beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating technology which allows it to warm up quickly in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in less than three seconds which is significantly faster than other models.
Even the novice can pull off a perfect shot with this espresso machine thanks to the automatic steam wand. It comes with presets that can create cappuccinos, latte, and other milk-based textures and temperatures. It's not able to create the silky smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modding and a lot of practice but it will produce a satisfyingly smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has a reservoir that is removable, making it easy to refill and clean. It's also very lightweight and compact, which makes it fit easily into small spaces. It also has a glass lid that's easy to keep clean, which is another important feature for those who have a small counter space.
While it's more expensive than some other models however, the Bambino Plus is worth the extra cost. It's easy to use and comes with great features, including an automatic steam tool that can make your milk frothy for you. It's the perfect option for anyone who wants a great cup of espresso at home. See if you're pre-approved - earn up to 10% in rewards1 and free shipping8 with the new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're in the market for a professional espresso machine that isn't too much then the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. best espresso machine includes numerous of the essential features you would expect to find in a more expensive espresso machine, such as a digital PID that controls the temperature to just a few degrees and an actual steam wand which is connected to its own heating circuit to allow fast steaming and brewing at the same time. It is equipped with many energy-saving features, including an eco mode that automatically turns the machine off after a set 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 it helps ensure that your beans are evenly spread during extraction. This, in turn, results in a more consistent and more delicious espresso.
Another feature that distinguishes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is an adjustable OPV valve. This allows you to adjust the pressure that is imposed on your grounds during extraction which allows you to play with different flavors and techniques. smeg espresso machine is an excellent option for those who love coffee as a lot of espresso machines come with a pressure that is too high.
The Diletta Mio has a simple user interface that is easy for new users to use. However, it also includes certain advanced features that will appeal to more experienced baristas at home. The PID display can also be used as a shot-timer, which allows you to track your shots easily and ensure that they are brewed perfectly. The brew and Steam buttons are illuminated to let you know if you've reached the proper temperature and pressure to begin making steam or brewing.
In addition, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy, a fact that is a testimony to 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, a Spanish manufacturer, is renowned for its outstanding espresso machines for home use. They also make a few commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will show scores of reviewers who are drooling over it. However, I believe it is a bit overshadowed by models with more impressive features and a higher price tag.
This machine has dual thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions as well as precise milk frothing. Its PID lets you adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one-degree increments, which is a degree of precision that is usually reserved for larger machines. It also displays a graph that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit instead of at the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing departure from the standard digital display on most home espresso machines, which uses blue numbers.
It also comes with a large, actively heated cup warmer, which is a excellent feature. The steam wand is simple to use and comes with a non-burn function that auto-purges after each use. It's also programmed for two sets of pre-infusion that allows you to program the time you'd like to soak the portafilter prior to proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite some minor issues. Its fast heat-up time and precise temperatures ensure your coffee is always at the perfect temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion allows you to perfect your shot-making skills.
I would slash it down one point for the plastic tamper included and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall this is a fantastic choice for home espresso lovers. The Ascaso is worth the extra money for its premium look and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is the ideal espresso machine for those seeking the most value for money. It has a single boiler which heats up for brewing and steaming, the Silvia is simple to use and is available in various colors to fit with the style of your home.
Silvia Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to remove, clean and maintain. This machine features a removable reservoir that can be filled when the machine is in use. It also has an automatic shutoff function and a temperature dial that will keep your drinks at the right temperature.
The steam wand is commercial grade and will allow you to create silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your guests. The control knobs for brewing on the Silvia are simple to understand and let you choose your desired extraction as well as brew time for a custom drink. The Silvia has proven to be durable, reliable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned Italian company that is proud of its craftsmanship and quality. They keep close contact with their community of espresso lovers, observing feedback and creating products that get the little important details right.
This machine is ideal for those just beginning to make espresso at home. It could also be a great upgrade from moka pots if you're a barista. The biggest drawback of this machine is that it does not have a heat exchanger, so you'll need to wait a few minutes before making milk-based drinks.
It is also important to note that the company puts each and every Silvia through a rigorous series of tests, so that you can be certain that the machine is safe to use. If you discover that there is a problem with your Silvia it comes with a one-year guarantee.