Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of a variety of commercial machines are currently available to consumers.
These heftier systems demand greater precision from the user to ensure grinding and tamping, as well as extraction time, but do the majority of the work.
This model is designed for those who sees espresso as an intense hobby and would like full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's tiny beauty is a popular choice among coffee lovers. It's got all the features to deliver a great shot every time and isn't too complicated to use. It's perfect for those who wish to improve their coffee making skills, but aren't yet ready to invest in the top of the line commercial equipment.
Its low-pressure pre-infusion as well as the accelerated high-pressure extraction will ensure that the ground beans are evenly crushed for an even flavor. You can also set different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots by pressing of a single button. This is very helpful to achieve consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system, which means you don't need to wait until it reaches the right temperature in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in less than three seconds which is significantly faster than other models.
The steam wand's automatic feature makes it easy for even the most novice users to pull a amazing shot. It can create a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, 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 lots of practice but it will create a smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with a removable reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also extremely light and compact, which makes it to fit well into small spaces. It also has a glass top that is easy to clean, another important feature for those with limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra price. It's user-friendly and comes with great features, including an automatic steam wand that can make your milk frothy for you. It's the perfect option for anyone who would like a great 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 professional espresso machine that isn't too much and isn't too expensive, the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It has many of the key features you'd expect to find in a more expensive espresso machine, like an electronic PID that regulates the temperature to within a few degrees and a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit to allow near-simultaneous brewing and steaming. It is equipped with many energy-saving options, including eco mode, which automatically turns the machine off after a set period of inactivity.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industrial-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is a standard size for most commercial espresso machines, and helps to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This will result in a more uniform and better-tasting espresso.
electric espresso maker that sets the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is its adjustable OPV valve. This lets you fine-tune the pressure that is imposed on your grounds during extraction, allowing you to experiment with different flavor profiles and techniques. This is a great option for those who love coffee as a lot of espresso machines are shipped with a pressure that is too high.
The Diletta Mio has a simple user interface that makes it easy for beginners to use. It also has some advanced features that will be appealing to experienced baristas at home. The PID display can also be used as a shot-timer, allowing you to monitor your shots easily and ensure they're made to perfection. The brew and Steam buttons are illuminated to indicate when you've reached the correct temperature and pressure to begin making steam or brewing.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its quality and workmanship. This machine can provide years of solid performance and reliability, especially if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso, a Spanish manufacturer, is renowned for its top-quality home espresso machines. They also produce a few commercial models. A quick YouTube search will reveal that dozens of reviewers are drooling at the Steel Duo PID. However, I think it is a bit overshadowed by machines with more impressive feature-sets and higher prices.
This machine is equipped with two thermoblocks that ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk frothing. The PID on this machine allows you to adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments. This degree of precision is normally reserved for expensive 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 departure from the traditional digital display that is common to home espresso machines which use blue digits.
It also comes with a large, active heated cup warmer, which is another excellent feature. The steam wand is simple to use and has a non-burn function that auto-purges after every use. It is also programmable to allow for two pre-infusions so that you can set the length of time that the portafilter must be soaked prior to beginning the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite some minor issues. The Ascaso's fast heat-up time and precise temperatures as well as quick heating ensure that your coffee will always be made at the perfect temperature. In addition, the programable infusion will help you improve your shot-making skills.
I would knock it down by a few points due to the included plastic tamper and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall it is a fantastic option for espresso lovers who want to make their own. If you're willing to pay some more then the Ascaso is worth the price for its extra features and a premium appearance.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is the ideal espresso machine for those looking for the most value for their money. It has a single boiler which is heated for brewing and steaming the Silvia is simple to use and is available in a variety of colors to match your home's style.
The Silvia also features a stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are simple to remove and clean. This machine comes with a water reservoir that is removable and can be filled up while the machine is running as well as an automatic shutoff feature and an adjustable temperature dial that keeps your drinks at the perfect temperature to provide the best coffee experience.
The steam wand is commercial quality and allows you to create silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls are simple to use and let you customize your drink by choosing 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 business that takes pride in its quality and craftsmanship. They stay constantly in contact with their community, and are open to feedback. They create products that are perfected through the tiny details.
This machine is an ideal choice for people who are just starting their journey into making espresso at home. However, it can also be a great upgrade from an old moka maker under the supervision of a skilled barista. The biggest drawback of this machine is that it does not have an exchanger, so you'll need to wait a couple of minutes between making milk-based beverages.
The company also puts each Silvia through an extensive series of tests so that you can be certain that the machine will work safely. The manufacturer provides a one-year warranty if you discover an issue.