Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows as do the options for consumers. A variety of top-rated, high-end commercial machines are now available to customers as models for prosumers.
These heavier systems require more precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, yet they do the majority of the work.
This model is ideal for those who sees espresso as an intense hobby and would like full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's small beauty is a popular choice among espresso enthusiasts. It's user-friendly and has all the features you require to make a perfect espresso shot every time. It's a great choice for those looking to improve their coffee-making abilities but aren't ready to splurge on the top of the line commercial equipment.
Its low pressure pre-infusion and the accelerated high-pressure extraction will ensure that the ground beans are evenly pressed to ensure the best flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots by pressing of a button. This is very helpful to achieve consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating technology, which allows it to rapidly heat up in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in less than three seconds which is significantly quicker than most other machines.
Even the novice will have no trouble pulling a great shot with this espresso machine because of the steam-powered automatic wand. It can produce a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, as well as presets for lattes, cappuccinos, and many more. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on, professional-grade machine that requires modifying and plenty of practice, but it will still produce a satisfyingly smooth and creamy cappuccino or latte.
This model has a water reservoir that is removable that makes it simple to clean and refill. It's also light and compact, which helps it fit nicely into small spaces. It also has a glass counter that is easy to clean, which is an important aspect for those with limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra cost. It's easy to use, and has numerous great features. One of them is the auto-steam wand that will froth milk for you. It's the perfect option for anyone who would like an excellent cup of coffee at home. See if you're pre-approved - earn up to 10% back in rewards1 plus free shipping8 today with a new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a prosumer espresso machine that isn't too much then the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It comes with many of the key features you would expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, like a digital PID that controls the temperature to within a few degrees, and an insulated steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit to allow near-simultaneous brewing and steaming. It has many energy-saving features, including an eco mode, which automatically turns the machine off after a specific time of inactivity.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industrial-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is a standard size that is used by the majority of commercial espresso machines, and it helps to ensure that all of your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This results in a better-tasting and more evenly distributed espresso.
Another characteristic that makes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is the adjustable OPV valve. This gives you the ability to alter the pressure that is applied on your coffee grounds during extraction. You can test different styles and flavors. This is a great feature for coffee lovers particularly since many espresso machines leave the factory with the pressure set too high (the Rancilio Silvia springs to mind).
The Diletta Mio has a simple user interface that makes it easy for novices to use. It also has advanced features which will attract experienced home baristas. For example the PID display doubles as a shot timer, which will enable you to easily track your shots and make sure that they are brewed to perfection. The brew and steam buttons are lit up to indicate when you've reached the proper temperature and pressure for making steam or brewing.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its high-end quality and craftsmanship. This is an appliance that will provide you with years of reliable performance and reliable service, especially when it is maintained properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer that is known for its production of some outstanding home espresso machines and even a few commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will reveal dozens of reviewers swooning over it. I think it's overshadowed, however by other devices that have more impressive features and a higher cost.
This machine features dual thermoblocks to ensure stable espresso extractions, as well as precise milk foaming. Its PID lets you adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one-degree increments, which is a degree of precision normally reserved for higher-end machines. It also displays a graph that displays the temperature of brewing at the brew unit rather than at the boiler or thermoblock. This is a welcome change from most espresso machines in the home that use a simple digital display that has blue numbers.
It also comes with a large and actively heated cup warmer, which is another excellent feature. Its steam wand is easy to use and comes with a non-burn feature that automatically purges after each use. It's also programmed to allow two pre-infusion sets which means you can program the desired amount of time to soak the portafilter before continuing with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite a few minor issues. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up, precise temperatures and fast heating ensure that your coffee will be made at the ideal temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion helps you perfect your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper that comes with it and the low-power of steam are two points that I would criticize, but this is an excellent choice for those who love espresso at home. If you're willing more it, the Ascaso is worth the price because of its extra features and its premium design.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for a classic espresso machine that will give you the best bang for your buck then look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. With a single boiler that is heated for brewing and steaming the Silvia is easy to use and can be purchased in a variety of colors to match your home's aesthetic.
The Silvia has a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to take off and clean, as well as maintain. The Silvia comes with an adjustable reservoir that can be filled while the machine is being used. It also image source comes with an automatic shutoff feature and a temperature dial that will keep your drinks at the ideal temperature.
Finally, the steam wand that comes with this machine is commercial-grade and lets you create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that are sure to delight your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls are easy to use and allow you to customize your drink by selecting the desired extraction time and brew temperature. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable and reliable, which is why it has endured the test of time since its first release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned Italian company that is proud of its craftsmanship and quality. They are in constant contact with their community of espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and designing products that get the little things right.
This machine is perfect for those just beginning to make espresso at home. It could also be a replacement for a moka pot if you're a barista. The biggest downside to this machine is that it doesn't have an exchanger for heat, which means you'll have to wait for a few minutes between making milk-based beverages.
The company also puts each Silvia through an extensive series of tests so that you can be sure that your machine will operate safely. If you do find that there is a problem with your Silvia, the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty.