Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, as do the options for consumers. Many top-rated commercial machines, including top-of-the-line models, are now accessible to consumers as prosumer models.
These heavier systems require more precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, but they do the majority of the work.
This model is made for those who use espresso as a pastime and would like to have complete control over the brewing procedure.
The Bambino Plus
This little beauty is made by Breville is a top-pick for many espresso aficionados. It's got the features to give you a perfect shot every time and isn't too complicated to use. It's ideal for those looking to improve their coffee making skills but aren't quite ready to spend the money on the top of the line commercial equipment.
Its low pressure pre-infusion and the accelerated high-pressure extraction will ensure that the beans are evenly pressed for the best flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots with the touch of a button. This can be very beneficial to ensure consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system, which means you don't need to wait around for it to get to the right temperature in the morning. It will be ready to use in only three seconds which is a lot more efficient than other machines.
The steam wand's automatic feature can make it simple for even the most novice users to pull off a amazing shot. It comes with presets for cappuccinos, latte, and other milk types and temperatures. It won't create the super-smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modifying and lots 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 is also light and compact which makes it easy to fit into small spaces. It has a glass top that is easy to clean, another important feature for those with little counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is definitely worth the extra cost. It's simple to use and comes with great features, including an automatic steam tool that can froth your milk for you. It's the perfect option for anyone who wants a great coffee at home. Find out if your pre-approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 with a Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're in the market for a prosumer espresso machine that won't cost too much then the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It has numerous of the essential features you'd expect to find in a more expensive espresso machine, like a digital PID which regulates the temperature to within a few degrees, and an actual steam wand which is connected to its own heating circuit to allow fast steaming and brewing at the same time. It has many energy-saving features, including an eco mode, which will automatically shut off the machine after a set time of inactivity.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industry-standard portafilter that measures 58mm. This is the standard size for most commercial espresso machines, and it assists to ensure that all of your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This means you get a better tasting and more evenly distributed espresso.
Another characteristic that makes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is an adjustable OPV valve. This allows you to adjust the pressure that is imposed on your coffee during extraction, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and techniques. This is a fantastic feature for coffee lovers 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 easy-to-use interface. It also has advanced features which will appeal to experienced home baristas. For example, the PID display doubles as a shot timer to allow you to easily monitor your shots and ensure they are brewed to perfection. The brew and Steam buttons are lit up to inform you when you've reached the proper temperature and pressure for steaming 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 particularly if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer that is known for its production of some outstanding home espresso machines and even a couple of commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that dozens of reviewers are admiring the Steel Duo PID. I do believe that it's being overshadowed by other models that have more impressive features and cost more.
This machine has dual thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions and accurate milk frothing. The PID of this machine lets you adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments. This degree of precision is typically reserved for expensive machines. read the article has 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 most espresso machines in the home which use a basic digital display that has blue digits.
It also comes with a large, actively heated cup warmer, which is another excellent feature. Its steam wand has an easy-to-use non-burn feature that automatically purges after every use. It's also programmed to allow two pre-infusion sets that allows you to program in the desired amount of time to soak the portafilter before continuing with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite some minor issues. The Ascaso's quick heat-up time and precise temperatures as well as quick heating ensure that your coffee will always be brewed at the right temperature. In addition, the pre-infusion that can be programmed allows you to improve your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper and the surprising low power of steam are two points that I would criticize but it's an excellent option for coffee lovers at home. If you're willing a little more it, the Ascaso is definitely worth it because of its extra features and its premium design.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for a classic espresso machine that gives you the best bang for your money, look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. The Silvia features one boiler that can be used to brew and steaming coffee. It is simple to use and comes in a variety colours to match the design of your home.
The Silvia also features stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are easy to remove and clean. This machine comes with a water reservoir that is removable and can be filled while the machine is running as well as an automatic shutoff function as well as the temperature dial, which keeps your drinks at the perfect temperature for the ideal coffee experience.
The steam wand is commercial grade and will allow you to create lattes and cappuccinos that are silky smooth 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 robust, which is the reason it has endured the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned business which is proud of their craftsmanship and quality. They stay in close contact with their community of espresso lovers, observing feedback and developing products that get the small important details right.
This machine is ideal for those just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be an upgrade from moka pots if your a barista. The main drawback to this machine is that it doesn't have a heat exchanger, so you will need to wait a couple of minutes between making milk-based beverages.
The company also puts each Silvia through an extensive series of tests to be certain that the machine will work safely. If you do find that there's an issue with your Silvia manufacturer, they offer a one-year warranty.