Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of several commercial machines are now available for consumers.
These heavier systems require greater precision from the user in grinding and tamping, as well as extraction time, yet they do the majority of the work.
This model is ideal for those who sees espresso as an important pastime and wants complete control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's small beauty is a cult favorite among coffee enthusiasts. It's got all the features to deliver a great shot every time and isn't too complicated to operate. It's ideal for those who are looking to improve their coffee-making skills, but don't want to spend much money on a high-end commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion system and the accelerated high-pressure extraction will ensure that the ground beans are evenly pressed for an even flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots with the touch of a button. This is very helpful to ensure consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating system, which allows it to warm up quickly in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in just three seconds, which is a lot quicker than most other machines.
The steam wand's automatic feature makes it easy for even the most novice users to pull off a fantastic shot. It is able to create a broad range of milk temperatures and textures, with presets for lattes, cappuccinos, and many more. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam that you get from an actual professional-grade machine which requires tweaking and a lot of practice. But it can produce an incredibly smooth and creamy latte or a cappuccino.
This model has a water reservoir that is removable that makes it simple to clean and refill. It is also lightweight and compact making it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It has a glass top that is easy to clean, which is an important aspect for those with little counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is worth the extra price. It's simple to use and offers amazing features, such as an auto-steam tool that can froth your milk for you. This is the perfect choice for those who want to make a great cup at home. Find out if you're approved and earn 10% in rewards1 and free shipping8 when you purchase the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a prosumer espresso machine that won't cost too much, the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It includes many of the 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 actual steam wand which is connected to its own heating circuit for fast steaming and brewing at the same time. It also has a number of energy-saving features, such as an optional eco mode that automatically puts the machine into standby after a certain timer, and an insulated boiler and short water path that help reduce the loss of heat.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industrial-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is the standard size used by most commercial espresso machines, and it helps to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This, in turn, results in a more uniform and a better tasting espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to fine-tune the pressure that is exerted on your coffee during extraction which allows you to play with various flavors and techniques. This is a fantastic alternative for coffee lovers as a lot of espresso machines come with the pressure too high.
The Diletta Mio is easy to use for beginners thanks to its easy-to-use interface. It also has advanced features which will attract experienced home baristas. For example the PID display doubles as a shot timer to let you easily monitor your shots and ensure that they are brewed perfectly. There are lights on the steam and brew buttons to inform you when you have built up enough pressure and temperature to allow brewing and steaming.
Finally, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy which speaks to its quality and workmanship. This machine will provide you with years of solid performance and reliability particularly if it's well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for making an impressive espresso machine for home use and even a couple of commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that a lot of reviewers are drooling at the Steel Duo PID. I do think that it's being overshadowed by other models that offer more features and are priced higher.
This machine has dual thermoblocks to ensure stable espresso extractions as well as accurate milk foaming. The PID in this machine allows you to alter the temperature of brewing in one-degree increments. This degree of precision is normally reserved for expensive machines. It also has a display that displays the temperature of the brew in the brew unit rather than the boiler or thermoblock. This is a welcome change from most espresso machines in the home that rely on a simple digital display with blue numbers.
Another excellent feature is the large, active heated cup warmer. The steam wand features an easy-to-use non-burn feature that automatically purge after each use. It is also programmable to allow two pre-infusions so you can set the amount of time the portafilter must be soaked prior to proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite a few minor issues. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up and precise temperatures as well as quick heating ensure that your coffee will be made at the ideal temperature. Plus, the programmable pre-infusion helps you to improve your shot-making abilities.
I would slash it down one point for the included plastic tamper and its surprising low steam power, but overall it is an excellent option for those who love home espresso. If you're willing to spend more it, the Ascaso is well worth it for its extra features and its premium design.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for an old-fashioned espresso machine that gives you the most value for your buck, look at the Rancilio Silvia. With a single boiler that heats up for brewing and steaming, the Silvia is easy to use and comes in different colors to match your home's style.
machine espresso comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to remove, clean and maintain. This machine features an adjustable reservoir that can be filled while the machine is being used. It also has an automatic shutoff function and a temperature dial that will keep your drinks at just the perfect temperature.
The steam wand is commercial quality and will allow you to make silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls are simple to use and allow you to customize your drink by choosing the desired extraction time and the temperature of brewing. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable and robust, which is the reason 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 quality and craftsmanship. They are in constant contact with their community of espresso lovers, listening to feedback and designing products that get the small important details right.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It can also be a replacement for moka pots if you're a barista. The machine isn't equipped with a heat-exchanger, which means you'll need to wait several minutes between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth noting that the company puts each and every Silvia through a rigorous set of tests so that you can be certain that your equipment is safe to use. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty if you find a problem.