Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of several commercial machines are currently available to consumers.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, yet do most of the work.
This model is designed for people who take espresso as a pastime and want to have full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
This tiny beauty is made by Breville is a top-pick for a lot of espresso lovers. It's got all the features to give you a perfect shot every time and isn't too complicated in its operation either. It's ideal for those who wish to improve their coffee making skills, but aren't yet ready to splurge on an expensive commercial machine.
Its low-pressure pre-infusion as well as the accelerated high-pressure extraction will ensure that the beans are evenly crushed for the best flavor. You can also program different output quantities for two and one-shots at the touch of a button, which is very helpful for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating system, which allows it to warm up quickly in the morning. It will be ready to use in only three seconds, which is much faster than other machines.
The automatic steam wand can make it simple for even the most novice users to pull off a amazing shot. It comes with presets that can create cappuccinos, latte and other milk textures and temperatures. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam that you get from a hands-on, professional-grade machine that requires modifying and lots of practice, but it will still produce a satisfyingly smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has a reservoir that is removable, making it easy to refill and clean. It's also lightweight and compact making it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It also has a glass top that is easy to clean, which is an important aspect for those with a little counter space.
While it's more expensive than other models, the Bambino Plus is worth the additional cost. It's simple to use and offers great features, including a convenient auto-steam tool that can make your milk frothy for you. It's the perfect option for anyone looking to make a great cup of espresso at home. Find out if your approved and earn 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 with a 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 features many of the features you'd expect to find in a higher-priced espresso machine such as a digital PID which controls the temperature within a couple of degrees. It also comes with an actual steam wand that is connected to its own heating system to allow for near-simultaneous steaming and the brewing. It has many energy-saving features, such as an eco mode, which automatically shuts off the machine after a specific time of inactivity.
As an additional bonus as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a high-quality professional-grade portafilter that measures 58mm. This is a standard size for most commercial espresso machines, and it helps to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This results in a more delicious and more evenly-distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to adjust the pressure that is imposed on your coffee during extraction and allows you to experiment with various flavor profiles and techniques. This is a fantastic feature for coffee lovers 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 simple for beginners to use. It also has advanced features that appeal to experienced home baristas. For instance the PID display doubles as a shot timer to enable you to easily track your shots and make learn the facts here now sure that they are brewed to perfection. There are lights next to the brew and steam buttons to inform you when you have achieved enough pressure and temperature to allow the brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its quality and craftsmanship. This machine will give you years of reliable service and solid performance, especially if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for making excellent espresso machines for home use and even 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's overshadowed by models that have more advanced features and higher prices.
This machine is equipped with dual thermoblocks for stable espresso extractions and accurate milk foaming. The PID on this machine lets you adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments. This level of precision is usually reserved for machines that cost a lot of money. It also displays the brew temperatures at the brew unit, not the boiler or thermoblock. This is a refreshing departure from the simple digital display on most home espresso machines that use blue numbers.
It also comes with a large, actively heated cup warmer, which is a great feature. The steam wand is simple to use and comes with a non-burn function that auto-purges after every use. It's also programmable for two sets of pre-infusion, so you can program the desired amount of time to let the portafilter soak before proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso has a few minor issues, it's an excellent espresso machine. Its fast heat-up time and precise temperatures ensure your coffee is always at the right temperature. In addition, the pre-infusion that can be programmed makes it easier to perfect your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper included and the low-power of steam are two aspects I would not recommend, but this is a great choice for espresso lovers at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra money for its premium look and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
Rancilio Silvia is the perfect espresso machine for those seeking the most value for money. With a single boiler that heats up for brewing and steaming the Silvia is easy to use and comes in various colors to match your home's style.
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 a removable reservoir that can be filled while the machine is in use. It also features an automatic shutoff function and a temperature dial that will ensure that your drinks are at the ideal temperature.
The steam wand that comes with this machine is commercial grade and allows you to create silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will surely impress your guests. The Silvia's brewing controls are easy to use and allow you to personalize your drink by selecting the desired extraction time and the temperature of brewing. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable and robust, which is the reason it has been able to stand the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned business that takes pride in its craftsmanship and quality. They keep close contact with their community of espresso lovers, observing feedback and creating products that get the smallest important details right.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning to make espresso at home. It can also be a great upgrade from moka pots if your a barista. The biggest downside to this machine is that it doesn't have a heat exchanger, so you'll have to wait a minute or two between making milk-based beverages.
The company also puts each Silvia through a series of rigorous tests so that you can be certain that the machine will function safely. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty if you find an issue.