Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows so do the choices for consumers. Many top-rated, high-end commercial machines are now accessible to consumers as prosumer models.
These heftier systems demand more precision from the user to ensure grinding, tamping and extraction time, but do much of the work.
This model is ideal for those who views espresso as a serious hobby and wants complete control over the espresso process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's small beauty is a cult favorite among coffee lovers. It's easy to use and comes with all the features you require to make a perfect espresso shot every time. It's ideal for those looking to improve their coffee making skills but aren't quite ready to invest in a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
Its low-pressure pre-infusion as well as the accelerated high-pressure extraction will ensure that the ground beans are evenly pressed for the best flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two shots and one by pressing the button, which is very helpful for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating technology, which allows it to warm up quickly in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in just three seconds which is much quicker than the majority of other machines.
The automatic steam wand makes it easy for even the most novice users to pull off a great shot. It can produce a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, along with presets for cappuccinos and lattes and many more. It won't create the super-smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modding and plenty of practice however, it can make a deliciously smooth and creamy cappuccino or latte.
This model comes with a removable reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also very lightweight and compact, which helps it fit nicely into tight spaces. It also has a glass lid that's easy to clear, which is an important aspect for those who have a small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is definitely worth the extra cost. It's user-friendly and offers great features, including an automatic steam wand that can make your milk frothy for you. It's the ideal choice for anyone who would like an excellent cup of coffee at home. Find out if you are approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 when you purchase the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great alternative if you're looking to buy a low-cost prosumer espresso maker. It has many features that you'd expect to see in the higher-end espresso machines, including the digital PID that controls the temperature within a couple of degrees. It also comes with an insulated steam wand, which is that is connected to its heating system that allows for simultaneous steaming and making. It also has a range of energy-saving features, including an eco mode that automatically sets the machine in standby mode after a specified timer, and an insulated boiler as well as a short water path that helps reduce the loss of heat.
In addition, as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a premium, professional-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. espresso home machine is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and helps ensure that your espresso beans are evenly distributed during extraction. This will result in a more consistent and a better tasting espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to alter the pressure applied on the grounds of your coffee during extraction. You can test different styles and flavors. This is a great 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 novices due to its simple interface. It also has advanced features that 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 perfect brewed. The Steam and Brew buttons have lights that indicate when you've reached the correct temperature and pressure to begin brewing or steaming.
The Diletta Mio is made in Italy which speaks to its quality and craftsmanship. This machine will provide you with years of solid performance and reliability, especially if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso, a Spanish manufacturer, is known for its exceptional home espresso machines. They also produce commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will show scores of reviewers who are drooling over it. However, I believe it's overshadowed by models that have more advanced features and a price tag that is higher.
This machine comes with dual thermoblocks for steady espresso extractions and precise milk foaming. The PID in this machine lets you alter the temperature of brewing in one-degree increments. This degree of precision is normally reserved for high-end machines. It also features a display that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit rather than the boiler or thermoblock. This is a refreshing change from the simple digital display that is common to home espresso machines, which uses blue digits.
Another feature that is great is the large, active cup warmer. The steam wand features an easy-to-use, non-burn feature that automatically cleanses after every use. It's also programmed for two sets of pre-infusion which means you can program in the time you'd like to soak the portafilter before proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite some minor issues. Its fast heat-up time and precise temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always at the optimal temperature. In addition, the programable infusion will help you improve your shot-making techniques.
The plastic tamper included and the surprising low power of steam are two things that I'd like to point out however, this is an excellent option for espresso lovers at home. If you're willing to spend some more, the Ascaso is definitely worth it for its additional features and a premium appearance.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for an old-fashioned espresso machine that can give you the most value for your buck Look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. With a single boiler that heats up for brewing and steaming, the Silvia is simple to use and comes in different colors to fit with the style of your home.
The Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to take off and clean as well as maintain. The Silvia has an adjustable reservoir which can be filled up while the machine is in use. It also has an automatic shutoff feature and a temperature dial that will ensure that your drinks are at the perfect temperature.
The steam wand comes in commercial quality and allows you to create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your guests. The controls for brewing on the Silvia are simple to comprehend, allowing you to select the desired extraction and the brewing time to create a customized drink. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable, and reliable, which is why it has been able to stand the test of time since its first release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned company which is proud of their craftsmanship and quality. They stay in close contact with their community of espresso lovers, observing feedback and creating products that get the little things right.
This machine is ideal for those just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be a replacement for moka pots if your a barista. This machine does not have an exchanger for heat, so you'll have to wait some time between making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through an extensive series of tests to be sure that your machine will function safely. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty if you discover an issue.