Best Espresso Machine Reviews
The distinctive flavor of espresso is created by high temperatures and pressure. If you want to get the most of it, the best espresso machine is essential.
This Breville model makes use of ThermoJet Thermocoil which is the same thermocoil used in commercial machines. It's heated up in just three seconds, so you can start making espresso straight away.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
This reviewer has received promotional incentives or sweepstakes entries.
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus makes a excellent choice if you're looking for an easy cup but don't mind the lack of steaming milk. This compact and basic machine has a minimalist aesthetic and is able to be easily tucked away on the counter (the water tank that goes with it can be adjusted to size, so you don't need to leave the machine unattended).
It employs a method for extraction called "Centrifusion" to extract the flavor without overheating. This process also produces an extremely thick crema.
The machine is operated by one button, making it extremely user-friendly. The machine can identify the exact blend of each capsule through the barcode of each capsule, and then tunes all of its brewing parameters accordingly. It's a great choice for those who wish to start their day with a beautiful cup of coffee and have plenty of time. You're limited to using Nespresso capsules, which are expensive. It's also not the most durable of coffee makers.
2. Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia espresso machine is an excellent entry-level model for novices. It's made of commercial-grade components, and has a huge market for second-hand parts that speaks to its durability. It's not the top espresso machine for professionals, however. If you want to make coffee that is of a cafe quality the more powerful boiler is the better choice. However, the Silvia is a great place to start.
The portafilter of this machine is identical as that used in cafes. This makes it simpler to follow recipes for commercial machines. The grouphead, which is larger than 58mm in size and is thermally stable, is also a commercial-grade component. The steam wand, too, is a commercial-grade model that is easy to use.
It does have some limitations, for instance a single boiler and a basic rocker switch that turns it on and off. It's not ideal for people who want programmable features like pre-infusion or timed shots that can be customized however, it's an excellent performer for the price. It also comes with a black wood-handled premium tamper.
3. Philips 3200 Series
This fully automated Philips espresso machine is a great choice for those who wish to make quality coffee in the comfort at home. The machine comes with many amazing features and is easy to use. It is also relatively cheap.
It comes with a broad selection of drinks that can be made with a single touch. These include classics like espresso, Americano, latte macchiato, and cappuccino. The machine is also able to provide hot drinking water. The Philips 3200 Series is also fairly easy to clean.
While some may be apprehensive about the machine's plastic construction, it shouldn’t be a major issue. Most customers are satisfied with the quality of the plastic is great and durable.
The Philips 3200 Series is a handy espresso machine that can assist you in making your favorite milk-based beverages at home. It is perfect for those who wish to save money on coffee shop visits. It's also simple to use and requires minimal maintenance. However, if you're looking for the most powerful espresso there are better alternatives available. You can also buy an alternative that does not include the LatteGo system, but at a an affordable price.
4. Gaggia Classic Pro
Gaggia Classic Pro is an entry level espresso maker built to last. It builds on the decades-old reputation of the classic Classic with a few improvements including a frame that shows how much water remains as well as rocker switches and temperature ready lighting. The Classic Pro uses the same commercial-style portafilter and brew group Gaggia utilizes in their professional coffee machines. It also comes with three-way solenoid which removes any steam or water that remains after brewing. It also has a commercial steam wand which is a major improvement over the panarello wands on most lesser machines that do little more than inject air to increase the production of foam from boilers that aren't big enough.
The stainless steel body of the Classic Pro may not be as sleek or contemporary as some of its rivals however it provides an excellent level of durability over their plastic counterparts. It is also free of unnecessary features such as PID temperature control and fancy volumetric jiggery that could make the perfect shot a challenge to baristas who are new.
5. ECM Casa V
ECM (sister company of Profitec, another well-known high-end espresso maker) isn't well-known for its affordable machines, but they do have one in the Casa V. It's a single boiler machine that's a lot less expensive than the Rancilio Silvia or Gaggia Classic Pro, but it looks and performs like a more expensive machine. The mirror-finished stainless steel housing and the articulating steam wand are both eye-catching.
The 1200 watt heating elements can heat up the 0.4 liter Eco Brass boiler quickly. It is able to reach brew temperature within 5-7 minutes, and is ready for steam in just a minute. Brew gauges are an excellent feature as it allows you to monitor and adjust the pressure of your espresso machine coffee pump.
ECM has packed reliable espresso machine technology in small size, which is easy to incorporate into any kitchen. The Casa V will also look amazing in any design with a coffee theme. It's designed exactly the same way as traditional commercial espresso machines have been built for decades, using easy-to-access parts that any mechanically adept home user will feel comfortable fixing or maintaining.