Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows so do consumer choices. A variety of top-rated commercial machines that are of the highest quality are now available to customers as prosumer models.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, yet they do the majority of the work.
This model is designed for people who enjoy espresso as a pastime and want to have full control over the process of brewing.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's small beauty is a favorite among coffee enthusiasts. It's easy to use and has all the features you require to ensure a top espresso shot every time. It's ideal for those looking 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 ground beans are evenly pressed to ensure the best flavor. You can also program distinct output quantities for two and one-shots with the click of an button, which can be very beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating technology, which allows it to heat up quickly in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in only three seconds which is much faster than other models.
The automatic steam wand makes it easy for even the most novice users to make a amazing shot. It can create a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, along with presets for lattes, cappuccinos, and more. It's not able to produce the silky, microfoam you get with a professional-grade hand-held machine, which requires tweaking and a lot of practice. But it will still produce a smooth, creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with an open reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also lightweight and compact which makes it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It also has a glass lid that's easy to keep clear, which is an important feature for those with limited counter space.
While it's more expensive than some other models however, the Bambino Plus is worth the extra cost. It's simple to use and comes with excellent features, including an automatic steam wand that will froth your milk for you. It's the perfect option for anyone who would like a great cup of coffee at home. Check to see if you're approved - earn up to 10% in rewards1 + free shipping8 today by using a new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great option if you're looking for an affordable espresso maker for your home. It includes numerous of the essential features you would expect to find in a more expensive espresso machine, like an electronic PID that regulates the temperature to within a few degrees and an insulated steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit for simultaneous steaming and brewing. It is equipped with many energy-saving options, including eco mode, which automatically turns the machine off after a certain period of inactivity.
Additionally As an added bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a high-quality professional-grade 58mm portafilter. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and helps ensure that your beans are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This, in turn, results in a more consistent and better-tasting espresso.
Another feature that sets the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is an adjustable OPV valve. This allows you to alter the pressure that is applied on the coffee grounds during extraction. You can test find more information different flavors and techniques. This is a great feature for coffee enthusiasts, especially as many 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 certain advanced features that will appeal to more experienced home baristas. For instance, the PID display doubles as a shot timer, which will enable you to easily track your shots and ensure they are brewed to perfection. The brew and steam buttons have lights that inform you when you've reached the proper temperature and pressure for brewing or steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its quality and craftsmanship. This is an appliance that will give you years of solid performance and reliable service, particularly if you keep it well-maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for making excellent espresso machines for home use and even a couple of 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. I think it's overshadowed, however, by other machines that have more impressive features and are priced higher.
This machine has dual thermoblocks that ensure stable espresso extractions, as well as precise milk frothing. Its PID lets you alter the temperature of the brewing in one-degree increments, a degree of precision that is usually reserved for higher-end machines. It also has a display that displays the temperature of brewing at the brew unit instead of at the boiler or thermoblock. This is a refreshing change from the standard digital display that is common to espresso machines in the home which use blue numbers.
Another feature that is great is the large, active heated cup warmer. Its steam wand is easy to use and has a non-burn function that auto-purges after every use. It is also programmable to allow two pre-infusions, which means you can set the length of time that the portafilter should be soaked prior to beginning the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite some minor problems. Its rapid heating process and precise temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always at the perfect temperature. Plus, the programmable pre-infusion allows you to improve your shot-making skills.
I would knock it down by a few points due to the plastic tamper that comes with it and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall this is a great option for espresso lovers who want to make their own. If you're willing to spend a little more, the Ascaso is well worth it for its extra features and premium look.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking to buy a classic espresso machine that can give you the most value for your money then look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. The Silvia features a single boiler for brewing and steaming coffee. It is easy to use and comes in a variety of colors to complement the style of your home.
The Silvia also features a stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are simple to remove and clean. The Silvia has an adjustable reservoir that can be filled while the machine is in use. It also comes with an automatic shutoff function and a temperature dial that will keep your drinks at just the right temperature.
Finally, the steam wand in this machine is commercial grade and lets you create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that are sure to impress your guests. The control knobs for brewing on the Silvia are easy to grasp and allow you to choose the desired extraction and the brewing time to create a customized drink. The Silvia has proven to be durable, reliable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.
Rancilio is an Italian family-owned business that takes pride in 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 perfect for those just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be a replacement for a moka pot 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 for a few minutes between making milk-based beverages.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests to be sure that your machine will function safely. The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty in the event of any issues.