Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, so do consumer choices. Many top-rated commercial machines, including top-of-the-line models, are now available to customers as prosumer models.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, yet they can do the bulk of the work.
This model is made for those who enjoy espresso as a pastime and want to have full control over the process of brewing.
The Bambino Plus
This small beauty from Breville is a top choice for a lot of espresso lovers. It's got all the features to deliver a great shot every time and isn't overly complicated to use. It's ideal for those who want to improve their skills in coffee making and don't want spend a lot of money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion system and stepped up high-pressure extraction 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 with the touch of a single button. This is very helpful to achieve consistently good results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating system, which lets it warm up quickly in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in just three seconds which is much quicker than the majority of other machines.
The automatic steam wand makes it easy for even the most novice users to pull off a fantastic shot. It can create a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, with presets for cappuccinos, lattes, and more. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on, professional-grade machine that requires modifying and a lot of practice however, it can create a smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with a removable water reservoir which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also light and compact, which helps it fit nicely in tight spaces. It also has a glass top that is easy to clean, an important feature for those with little counter space.
While it's a little bit more expensive than other models but the Bambino Plus is worth the extra cost. It's simple to use, and comes with many wonderful features. One of it is the auto-steam wand, which will froth milk automatically. It's the perfect option for anyone looking to make the perfect coffee at home. Find out if you're pre-approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 and free shipping8 when you purchase 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 many of the features you would expect to find in a more expensive espresso machine, including an electronic PID that regulates the temperature to within a few degrees, and an insulated steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit to allow simultaneous steaming and brewing. It is equipped with many energy-saving features, including an eco mode, which automatically shuts off the machine after a certain time of inactivity.
As an additional bonus As an added bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a high-quality professional-grade portafilter that measures 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and ensures that your grounds are evenly spread during extraction. This, in turn, results in a more even and better-tasting espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This lets you fine-tune the pressure that is imposed on your grounds during extraction and allows you to experiment with different flavor profiles and techniques. This is an excellent alternative for coffee lovers since many espresso machines are shipped with the pressure too high.
The Diletta Mio is easy to use for beginners thanks to its easy-to-use interface. However, it has some advanced features that will draw more experienced baristas at home. For instance, the PID display doubles as a shot timer to let you easily monitor your shots and ensure they are made to perfection. The Steam and Brew buttons have lights that let you know if you've reached the right temperature and pressure for brewing or steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This is a testimony to its quality and workmanship. This is an item that will give you years of solid performance and reliable service, especially when you maintain it properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer that is known for its production of excellent espresso machines for home use and even a few commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will reveal dozens of reviewers swooning over it. I do believe that it's overshadowed, however, by other machines that have more impressive features and are priced higher.
The machine is equipped with two thermoblocks to ensure stable espresso extractions, as well as 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 temperature of the brew in the brew unit, not the thermoblock or boiler. This is a welcome departure from the traditional digital display on most espresso machines at home which use blue digits.
Another great feature is the large, active heated cup warmer. The steam wand is simple to use and has an auto-purge feature that doesn't burn after each use. It can also be programmed for two pre-infusions, so you can program in the amount you want to soak the portafilter prior to beginning the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have a few minor issues, overall it's an excellent espresso machine. Its rapid heating process and precise temperatures ensure that your coffee is always made at the right temperature. In addition, the programable infusion will help you improve your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper included and the low-power of steam are two points that I'd like to point out but it's an excellent option for coffee lovers at home. If you're willing to pay a little more it, the Ascaso is definitely worth it because of its extra features and premium look.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking to buy a classic espresso machine that can give you the most value for your money then look at the Rancilio Silvia. It has a single boiler which heats up for brewing and steaming, the Silvia is simple to use and is available in various colors to fit with your home's style.
The Silvia also features stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are simple to remove and clean. The Silvia comes with an ejector that can be filled when the machine is being used. It also features an automatic shutoff feature and a temperature dial that will keep your drinks at just the ideal temperature.
Finally, the steam wand on this machine is commercial grade and lets you create silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that are sure to delight your friends. The controls for brewing on the Silvia are easy to grasp and let you choose your desired extraction and the brewing time to create a customized drink. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable, and robust, which is the espresso machines reason it has been able to stand 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 are in constant contact with their community of espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and designing products that get the smallest important details right.
This machine is ideal for those just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It can also be an upgrade from moka pots if your a barista. The biggest drawback of this machine is that it does not have an exchanger, so you'll have to wait a couple of minutes between making milk-based beverages.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests to be certain that the machine will function safely. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty if you discover any issues.