Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of many commercial machines of the highest quality are can now be purchased by consumers.
These heavier systems require more precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, but they can do the bulk of the work.
This model is ideal for those who sees espresso as an important pastime and wants full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
This small beauty from Breville is a top choice for many coffee lovers. It's easy to use and has all the features you require to ensure a top espresso shot every time. It's perfect for those looking to improve their coffee-making skills but aren't quite ready to splurge on the top of the line commercial equipment.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, combined with the high-pressure extraction ensures that the beans are evenly pressed to give an even flavor. You can also set different output volumes for two shots and one-shots at the touch of a button. This can be very beneficial to ensure consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This means you won't need to wait until it reaches the optimal temperature in the early morning. It will be ready to use in just three second which is significantly more efficient than other machines.
The steam wand's automatic feature can make it simple for even the most novice users to pull a fantastic shot. It comes with presets for cappuccinos, latte, and other milk types and temperatures. It's not able to create the silky smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires mods and a lot of practice, but it will still make a deliciously smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with a water reservoir that is removable that makes it simple to clean and refill. It's also light and compact, which helps it to fit well into tight spaces. It also has a glass lid that's easy to clean, which is another important aspect for those who have a small counter space.
While it's more expensive than some other models, the Bambino Plus is worth the additional cost. It's user-friendly and offers amazing features, such as a convenient auto-steam tool that can froth your milk for you. This is the ideal choice for anyone who wants to make a delicious cup at home. Find out if you are approved and earn 10% in rewards1 and free shipping8 with the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're in the market for a prosumer espresso machine that isn't too much then the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It features many of the features you'd expect to see in an espresso machine that is more expensive that includes the digital PID that controls the temperature within a couple of degrees. It also has a solid steam wand that is connected to its heating system that allows for near-simultaneous steaming and making. It is equipped with many energy-saving features, such as eco mode, which automatically turns the machine off after a specific time of inactivity.
As an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a professional-grade, high-quality portafilter measuring 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines, and it helps ensure that your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This results in a more delicious and more evenly distributed espresso.
Another characteristic that distinguishes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is the adjustable OPV valve. This allows you to alter the pressure that is applied on your coffee grounds during extraction. You can test different styles and flavors. This is a great alternative for coffee lovers, as many espresso machines come with pressures that are too high.
The Diletta Mio is easy to use for beginners due to its simple interface. It also comes with advanced features that appeal to experienced home baristas. The PID display can be used as a shot-timer permitting you to keep track of your shots with ease and ensure they are perfect brewed. There are also lights in the area next to the brew and steam buttons to notify you that you have created enough pressure and temperature to allow brewing and steaming.
Finally, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy this confirms its quality and craftsmanship. This machine will provide you with years of reliable service and solid performance particularly if it's well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso the Spanish manufacturer, is well-known for its top-quality espresso machines for home use. They also produce a few commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that dozens of reviewers are admiring the Steel Duo PID. But, I think it is a bit overshadowed by machines with more impressive feature-sets and higher prices.
This machine has dual thermoblocks that ensure stable espresso extractions as well as accurate milk frothing. The PID lets you adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one-degree increments, a degree of precision normally reserved for higher-end machines. It also has a display that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit rather than the boiler or thermoblock. This is a welcome change from most home espresso machines which use a basic digital display that has blue numbers.
It also comes with a large, actively heated cup warmer, which is a fantastic feature. The steam wand features an easy-to-use, non-burn feature that automatically purge after every use. It can also be programmed to allow two pre-infusions, which means you can set the time for which the portafilter needs to be soaked prior to proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso has a few minor issues, overall it's an excellent espresso machine. Its fast heat-up time and precise temperatures ensure that your coffee is always at the optimal temperature. In addition, the pre-infusion that can be programmed allows you to improve your shot-making abilities.
The plastic tamper that comes with it and the surprisingly low power of steam are two aspects that I would criticize however, this is an excellent choice for coffee lovers at home. If you're willing to spend more, the Ascaso is worth the price because of its extra features and premium look.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking to buy a classic espresso machine that gives you the most value for your money Look at the Rancilio Silvia. With a single boiler that is heated for brewing and steaming the Silvia is simple to use and can be purchased in a variety of colors to match the style of your home.
The Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to remove, clean and maintain. The Silvia has an adjustable reservoir which can be filled up while the machine is being used. It also comes with an automatic shutoff function and a temperature dial that will ensure that your drinks are at the perfect temperature.
The steam wand comes in commercial grade and will allow you to create silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your guests. The controls for brewing on the Silvia are simple to understand and let you choose your desired extraction and the brewing time to create a customized drink. The Silvia has proven to be reliable, durable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned Italian business that takes pride in its quality and craftsmanship. They stay in close contact with their community of espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and creating products that get the small details right.
This machine is ideal for those just beginning to make espresso at home. It could also be a replacement for moka pots if your relevant web site a barista. The machine doesn't have a heat-exchanger, which means you'll have to wait several minutes between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth noting that the company puts every Silvia through a rigorous series of tests so that you can be certain that the machine is safe to use. If you find there's an issue with your Silvia, the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty.