Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, so do consumer options. A variety of top-rated commercial machines, including top-of-the-line models, are now accessible to consumers as prosumer models.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, but do most of the work.
This model is designed for those who views espresso as a serious hobby and wants full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
This small beauty from Breville is a top-pick for many coffee lovers. It's got all the features to deliver a great shot every time, and it's not overly complicated to operate. It's perfect for those who wish to improve their coffee making skills, but aren't yet ready to invest in an expensive commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, when combined with the high pressure extraction ensures that the beans are evenly pressed to produce an even taste. You can also set different output volumes for two shots and one-shots with the touch of a single button. This is extremely helpful to ensure consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This means you won't need to wait for it to reach the ideal temperature in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in only three seconds which is much faster than other models.
Even the novice will have no trouble pulling an excellent shot with this espresso machine due to the automatic steam wand. It can produce a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, as well as presets for cappuccinos and lattes and more. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam that you get from an actual professional-grade machine which requires modding and a lot of practice. But it can make a smooth, creamy latté or a cappuccino.
This model comes with a water reservoir that is removable which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also very lightweight and compact, which makes it to fit well into tight spaces. It also has a glass lid that is easy to keep clean, which is another important aspect for those with a limited counter space.
While it's a little bit more expensive than other models however, the Bambino Plus is worth the extra cost. It's easy to use, and comes with many great features. One of it is the auto-steam wand, which will froth milk automatically. It's the perfect choice for anyone looking to make the perfect cup of coffee at home. See if you're pre-approved - earn up to 10% back in rewards1 plus free shipping8 with a new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great option if you're looking for a low-cost prosumer espresso maker. It features many of the features you'd expect to see in the higher-end espresso machines, including the digital PID that controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also has a solid steam wand that is connected to its heating system to allow for simultaneous steaming and making. It is equipped with many energy-saving options, including an eco mode that automatically turns the machine off after a specific time of inactivity.
In addition, as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a premium, professional-grade portafilter that measures 58mm. This is the standard size that is used by the majority of commercial espresso machines, and helps to ensure that all of your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This means you get a better tasting and more evenly-distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you the ability to alter the pressure applied on the coffee grounds during extraction. You can play around with different styles and flavors. This is a great feature for coffee lovers particularly since many espresso machines are shipped out of 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 some advanced features that will appeal to experienced home baristas. For instance, the PID display doubles as a shot timer, which will let you easily monitor your shots and ensure that they are brewed to perfection. The brew and steam buttons have lights that inform you when you've reached the correct temperature and pressure for steaming or brewing.
In electric espresso maker addition, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy, a fact that is a testimony to its high-end quality and workmanship. This is an appliance that will provide you with years of solid performance and reliable service, particularly when it is maintained properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso the Spanish manufacturer, is known for its exceptional espresso machines for homes. They also produce commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will show scores of reviewers swooning over it. However, I think it is a bit overshadowed by models with more impressive features and a price tag that is higher.
This machine is equipped with two thermoblocks that ensure stable espresso extractions and accurate milk foaming. The PID of this machine allows you to adjust brewing temperatures in one-degree increments. This level of precision is usually reserved for expensive machines. It also has a display that displays 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 on most home espresso machines which use blue digits.
Another great feature is the large, active cup warmer. Its steam wand has an easy-to-use, non-burn feature that automatically purge after each use. It's also programmed for two pre-infusions that allows you to program the time you'd like to let the portafilter soak before beginning the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite some minor issues. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up 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 allows you to perfect your shot-making technique.
The plastic tamper and the low-power of steam are two points that I would criticize, but this is an excellent choice for those who love espresso at home. If you're willing more, the Ascaso is worth the price for its extra features and a premium appearance.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking to buy a classic espresso machine that can give you the most value for your money Look at the Rancilio Silvia. It has a single boiler which can be heated up for brewing as well as steaming the Silvia is simple to use and is available in various colors to match your home's aesthetic.
Silvia Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to take off and clean, as well as maintain. The Silvia has a removable water reservoir that can be topped off when the machine is in operation as well as an automatic shutoff feature and a temperature dial that ensures your drinks are at the ideal temperature for a perfect coffee experience.
The steam wand is of commercial quality and will allow you to make lattes and cappuccinos that are silky smooth that will impress your friends. The brewing control knobs on the Silvia are simple to comprehend, allowing you to select your desired extraction as well as the brewing time to create a customized drink. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting and robust, which is the reason it has stood the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned Italian business that takes pride in its quality and craftsmanship. They are in constant contact with their espresso lovers, listening to feedback and creating products that get the little details right.
This machine is ideal for those who are just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be a replacement for a moka pot if you're a barista. The biggest downside to this machine is that it doesn't have an exchanger for heat, which means you'll have to wait for a few minutes between making milk-based beverages.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests to be sure that your machine will function safely. If you discover that there is any issue with your Silvia, the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty.