Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows, so do consumer options. Prosumer models of a variety of high-end commercial machines can now be purchased by customers.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, yet they do the majority of the work.
This model is made for those who take espresso as a hobby and want to have full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a cult favorite among espresso lovers. It's got all the features to deliver a great shot every time, and it's not overly complicated to operate. It's ideal for those who wish to improve their coffee making abilities but aren't ready to spend the money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion and increased high-pressure extraction ensure that the beans are evenly crushed for the best flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two shots and one-shots at the touch of a single button. This is very helpful to ensure consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating technology which lets it warm up quickly in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in only three seconds which is much quicker than the majority of other machines.
Even the most novice user will be able to pull off a great shot using this espresso machine thanks to the automatic steam wand. It comes with presets for cappuccinos, latte, as well as other milk-based textures and temperatures. It won't create the super-smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modding and lots of practice, but it will still create a smooth and creamy cappuccino or latte.
This model has an open reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It is also lightweight and compact, making it easy to fit into small spaces. It has a glass top that is easy to clean, another important aspect for those who have little counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than the other models, is worth the extra price. It's easy to use, and comes with numerous great features. One of them is the auto-steam wand, which will froth milk automatically. This is the ideal option for anyone looking to make a great cup at home. Check to see if you're approved - earn up to 10% back in rewards1 and free shipping8 today with the brand new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a prosumer espresso machine that isn't too much, the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It has many features that you'd expect to find on an espresso machine that is more expensive such as a digital PID which controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also has an insulated steam wand, which is that is connected to its heating system for fast steaming and the brewing. It comes with a variety of energy-saving features, including an eco mode, which automatically shuts off the machine after a set period of inactivity.
In addition, as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a professional-grade, high-quality 58mm portafilter. This is the standard size that is used by the majority of commercial espresso machines, and it assists to ensure that all of your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This is a result in a more consistent and a better tasting espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to adjust the pressure exerted on your coffee grounds during extraction. You can play around with different flavors and techniques. This is a fantastic feature for coffee enthusiasts 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 is easy for beginners to use. It also has advanced features that will be appealing to experienced baristas at home. The PID display can also be used as a shot-timer, which allows you to track your shots without difficulty and ensure they're made to perfection. The brew and steam buttons have lights that inform you when you've reached the right temperature and pressure to begin brewing or steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This hop over to this website speaks volumes about its high-end quality and craftsmanship. This machine can provide years of solid performance and reliability particularly if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso, a Spanish manufacturer, is renowned for its outstanding espresso machines for home use. They also make a few 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 do believe that it's overshadowed, however by other models that have more impressive features and a higher cost.
The machine is equipped with two thermoblocks to ensure stable espresso extractions, as well as accurate milk frothing. Its PID lets you adjust the brewing temperature in one-degree increments, which is a level of precision usually reserved for more expensive machines. It also has a display that displays the temperature of the brew at the brew unit instead of the boiler or thermoblock. This is a welcome change from the majority of espresso machines at home that rely on a simple digital display that has blue digits.
Another feature that is great is the large, active cup warmer. The steam wand is simple to use and comes with a non-burn feature that automatically purges after each use. It's also programmable to allow two pre-infusion sets that allows you to program the time you'd like to soak the portafilter prior to proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite some minor problems. The Ascaso's fast heat-up time and precise temperature settings as well as its speedy heating ensure that your coffee will be made at the ideal temperature. In addition, the programable infusion will help you improve your shot-making technique.
I would slash it down a few points for the included plastic tamper and its shockingly low steam power, but overall this is a great option for those who love home espresso. If you're willing to spend a little more, the Ascaso is definitely worth it for its extra features and its premium design.
The Rancilio Silvia
Rancilio Silvia is the perfect espresso machine for those seeking the most value for money. The Silvia has one boiler that can be used to brew and steaming coffee. It's easy to use and comes in a variety colors to match the aesthetic of your home.
Silvia Silvia has a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to remove and clean as well as maintain. This machine features an ejector that can be filled when the machine is in use. It also comes with an automatic shutoff feature as well as an adjustable temperature dial to keep your drinks at the perfect temperature.
The steam wand comes in commercial grade and will allow you to make silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your friends. The control knobs for brewing on the Silvia are easy to grasp and allow you to choose your desired extraction as well as the time of brewing for a custom drink. The Silvia has been proven to be durable, reliable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned Italian company that is proud of its craftsmanship and quality. They keep close contact with their community of espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and designing products that get the smallest details right.
This machine is an excellent option for those who are just starting their journey into making espresso at home, but it could also be a solid upgrade to an old moka pot in the hands of a barista who is skilled. The machine isn't equipped with a heat exchanger, which means you'll have to wait for several minutes between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth noting that the company puts each and every Silvia through a rigorous series of tests so that you can be confident that the machine is safe to use. If you discover that there is any issue with your Silvia it comes with a one-year guarantee.