Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands as do the options for consumers. Many top-rated commercial machines, including top-of-the-line models, are now accessible to consumers as models for prosumers.
These heavier systems require more precision from the user in grinding, tamping and extraction time, yet they do much of the work.
This model is for someone who considers espresso to be a serious hobby and wants complete control over the espresso process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a cult favorite among espresso lovers. It's easy to use and has all the features you require to get a great espresso shot every time. It's ideal for people who are looking to improve their coffee-making abilities but don't want to spend an enormous amount of money on a premium commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion and increased high-pressure extraction ensure that the ground beans are evenly pressed for a balanced flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots with the touch of a single button. This can be very beneficial to achieve consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating system, which allows it to heat up quickly in the morning. It will be ready to use in just three seconds which is significantly faster than other machines.
Even the most novice user can pull off a great shot using this espresso machine due to the automatic steam wand. It comes with presets that can create cappuccinos, latte and other milk-based textures and temperatures. It won't produce the super-smooth, microfoam you get with an actual professional-grade machine which requires modifying and a lot of practice. But it can create a smooth, creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with a removable reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It is also lightweight and compact which makes it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It also has a glass top that is easy to clean, which is an important aspect for those with limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than the other models, is well worth the extra cost. It is easy to use, and comes with many great features. One of it is the auto-steam wand, which will froth milk automatically. It's the perfect option for anyone who wants an excellent cup of coffee 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
The Diletta Mio is a great alternative if you're in the market for an inexpensive espresso maker for your home. It includes many of the key features you'd expect to find in a more expensive espresso machine, such as a digital PID that controls the temperature to within a few degrees and a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit for near-simultaneous brewing and steaming. It also comes with a variety of energy efficiency features, including an eco mode that automatically sets the machine in standby mode after a certain period of inactivity, and an insulated boiler as well as a short water path that help reduce heat loss.
Additionally as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a premium, professional-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is a standard size for most commercial espresso machines, and helps to ensure that all of your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This, in turn, results in a more uniform and better-tasting espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This gives you the ability to adjust the pressure exerted on the grounds of your coffee during extraction. You can experiment with different styles and flavors. This is an excellent feature for coffee enthusiasts especially since a lot of espresso machines leave the factory with the pressure set too high (the Rancilio Silvia springs to mind).
The Diletta Mio is easy to use for beginners thanks to its simple interface. However, it also has some advanced features that will be appealing to baristas with more experience in the home. For example, the PID display doubles as a shot timer to enable you to easily track your shots and make sure that they are brewed to perfection. There are lights next to the brew and steam buttons to let you know when you have achieved enough pressure and temperature to allow the brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its high-end quality and workmanship. This machine can provide years of solid performance and reliability particularly if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer, is renowned for its outstanding home espresso machines. They also produce commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will reveal dozens of reviewers drooling over it. I think it's being overshadowed by other models with more advanced features and a higher cost.
This machine comes with two thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk frothing. The PID of this machine allows you to alter the temperature of brewing in one-degree increments. This degree of precision is typically reserved for expensive machines. It also has a display that coffee machines espresso displays the temperature of the brew at the brew unit instead of the boiler or thermoblock. This is a refreshing departure from the majority of espresso machines at home which use a basic digital display with blue numbers.
It also comes with a large, actively heated cup warmer, which is a great feature. The steam wand is simple to use and has a non-burn feature that automatically purges after each use. It can also be programmed to allow two pre-infusions so that you can control the amount of time the portafilter needs to be soaked prior to beginning the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite some minor problems. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up, precise temperatures and fast heating ensure that your coffee will always be made at the perfect temperature. In addition, the programable infusion will help you improve your shot-making skills.
I would give it by a few points due to the plastic tamper included and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall it is a great option for those who love home espresso. If you're willing to spend some more then the Ascaso is definitely worth it for its additional features and a premium appearance.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine for those looking for the best bang-for-your-buck. The Silvia has a single boiler for brewing and steaming coffee. It is simple to use, and comes in a variety of colors to complement the style of your home.
Silvia Silvia features a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to remove and clean, as well as maintain. The Silvia comes with an adjustable reservoir which can be filled up while the machine is in use. It also features an automatic shutoff feature and a temperature dial that will keep your drinks at just the right temperature.
The steam wand in this machine is commercial-grade and allows you to create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your friends. The brewing control knobs on the Silvia are easy to grasp and let you choose your desired extraction as well as the brewing time to create a customized drink. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable and reliable, which is why it has stood the test of time since its first release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned business that takes pride in its craftsmanship and quality. They are in constant contact with their espresso lovers, listening to feedback and designing products that get the small details right.
This machine is perfect for those just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be an upgrade from moka pots if you're a barista. The machine isn't equipped with a heat exchanger, which means you will need to wait for a few minutes between 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 you can be certain that your machine is safe to operate. If you find there's an issue with your Silvia it comes with a one-year guarantee.