Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows and so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of several commercial machines of the highest quality are can now be purchased by consumers.
These heavier systems require more precision from the user for grinding, tamping and extraction time, but they do the majority of the work for you.
This model is designed for people who use espresso as a hobby and want to have full control over the brewing procedure.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a cult favorite among coffee lovers. It's easy to use and has all the features you require to get a great espresso shot every time. It's a great choice for those who want 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 and the accelerated high-pressure extraction will ensure that the ground beans are evenly pressed to ensure a balanced flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two shots and one-shots by pressing of a button. This is very 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 less than three seconds, which is a lot quicker than most other machines.
Even the most novice of users will be able to pull off a great shot with this espresso machine, thanks to the automatic steam wand. It is able to create a broad range of milk temperatures and textures, with presets for cappuccinos and lattes and many more. It won't create the super-smooth microfoam you can get from a hands-on, professional-grade machine that requires modding and a lot of practice, but it will still produce a satisfyingly smooth and creamy cappuccino or latte.
This model has a removable water reservoir which makes it easy to clean and refill. It is also compact and lightweight which makes it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It also has an easy-to-clean glass lid to keep clean, which is an important feature for those who have a small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is worth the extra cost. It's simple to use and comes with amazing features, such as an auto-steam wand that will froth your milk for you. It's the ideal choice for anyone who wants a great cup of coffee at home. Find out if you're 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 an inexpensive prosumer espresso maker. It features many of the features you'd expect to see in a higher-priced espresso machine such as the digital PID that controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also has an actual steam wand that is connected to its own heating system for near-simultaneous steaming and the brewing. It has many energy-saving options, including an eco mode that automatically shuts off the machine after a certain period of inactivity.
Additionally as an additional bonus, as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a premium, professional-grade 58mm portafilter. This is the standard size that is used by the majority of commercial espresso machines, and it assists to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This will result in a more uniform and a better tasting espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to alter the pressure that is applied on the grounds of your coffee during extraction. You can play around with different methods and flavors. This is an excellent feature for coffee enthusiasts, especially as 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 beginners due to its simple interface. It also has some advanced features that be appealing to experienced baristas at home. The PID display can be used as a shot-timer allowing you to monitor your shots with ease and ensure that they are perfect brewed. There are also lights next to the steam and brew buttons to notify you when you have built up enough pressure and temperature for the brewing and steaming.
Finally, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy, a fact that speaks to its quality and craftsmanship. This is an appliance that will give you years of solid performance and reliable service, particularly when it is maintained properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for producing an impressive espresso machine for home use and even a couple of commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will show dozens of reviewers drooling over it. However, I believe it's overshadowed by models with more impressive features and higher prices.
This machine is equipped with dual thermoblocks for stable espresso extractions and accurate milk foaming. espresso machines home allows you to adjust the brewing temperature in one degree increments, a level of precision usually reserved for more expensive machines. It also has a display that displays the temperature of brewing at the brew unit, rather than the boiler or thermoblock. This is a refreshing departure from the standard digital display that is common to espresso machines at home, which uses blue digits.
It also comes with a large, actively heated cup warmer, which is another fantastic feature. The steam wand is simple to use and has a non-burn feature that automatically purges after each use. It is also programmable to allow for two pre-infusions, which means that you can control the time for which the portafilter must be soaked prior to beginning the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite a few minor problems. Its rapid heating process and precise temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always at the optimal temperature. Plus, the programmable pre-infusion helps you to improve your shot-making skills.
I would slash it down a few points for the plastic tamper included and its shockingly low steam power, but overall it is a great option for those who love home espresso. The Ascaso is worth the extra cost for its stylish design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for an old-fashioned espresso machine that gives you the best bang for your buck then look at the Rancilio Silvia. The Silvia features one boiler that can be used to brew and steamed coffee. It is simple to use and comes in a variety colors to complement the style of your home.
The Silvia has a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to take off and clean as well as maintain. The Silvia comes with an adjustable reservoir that can be filled when the machine is being used. It also has an automatic shutoff feature as well as an adjustable temperature dial to keep your drinks at just the perfect temperature.
The steam wand comes in commercial quality and allows you to make silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your guests. The brewing control knobs on the Silvia are easy to grasp and let you choose the desired extraction and brew time for a custom drink. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable, and robust, which is the reason it has stood the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned company that is proud of their craftsmanship and quality. They are in constant contact with their community and listen to feedback. They create products that are perfected by the small little details.
This machine is an ideal option for those just beginning their journey to making espresso at home. However, it could also be a good upgrade from an old moka maker under the supervision of a barista who is skilled. The machine doesn't have an exchanger for heat, so you'll have to wait some time between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth mentioning that the company puts each and every Silvia through a stringent series of tests, so that you can be certain that the machine is safe to use. The manufacturer provides a one-year warranty if you discover any issues.