Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows as do the options for consumers. Prosumer models of several commercial machines of the highest quality are now available for customers.
These heavier systems require greater precision from the user in grinding, tamping and extraction time, but they do most of the work for you.
This model is designed for those who take espresso as a hobby and want complete control over the process of brewing.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's small beauty is a cult favorite for espresso lovers. It has the right features to make a fantastic shot every time and isn't too complicated to operate. It's ideal for those looking to improve their coffee making skills but aren't quite ready to invest in the top of the line commercial equipment.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, when combined with the high-pressure extraction, guarantees that the beans are evenly pressed, resulting in an even flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two shots and one-shots at the touch of a button. This is very helpful to ensure consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system, which means you won't have to wait around until it reaches the right temperature in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in only three seconds which is much quicker than most other machines.
Even the most novice user can pull off a perfect shot using this espresso machine due to the automatic steam wand. It can produce a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, with presets for cappuccinos and lattes and much more. It's not able to create the silky smooth microfoam you can get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modding and lots of practice however, it can produce a satisfyingly smooth and creamy cappuccino or latte.
This model comes with an adjustable water reservoir which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also extremely light and compact, which helps it fit nicely in tight spaces. It also has an easy-to-clean glass lid to keep clean, which is an important aspect for those with limited counter space.
While it's a little bit more expensive than some other models, the Bambino Plus is worth the cost. It is easy to use, and has numerous great features. One of it is the auto-steam wand, which will froth milk for you. This is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to make a delicious cup 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 high-end espresso machine that won't cost too much then the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It comes with many of the features you'd expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, such as 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 for near-simultaneous brewing and steaming. It also comes with a variety of energy efficiency features, such as an optional eco mode that automatically sets the machine in standby mode after a set time of inactivity, as well as an insulated boiler and short water path that helps reduce the loss of heat.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industry-standard portafilter that measures 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and helps ensure that your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This will result in a more uniform and a better tasting espresso.
Another characteristic that makes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is its adjustable OPV valve. This allows you to adjust the pressure exerted on your grounds during extraction and allows you to experiment with different flavors and techniques. This is an excellent feature for coffee lovers, 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 novices due to its simple interface. However, it also includes several advanced features that draw more experienced baristas at home. The PID display can be used as a shot timer, permitting you to keep track of your shots with ease and ensure they are perfect brewed. 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 is made in Italy which confirms its quality and workmanship. This machine can provide years of solid performance and reliability particularly if it's well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer, is known for its outstanding home espresso machines. They also make commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will reveal dozens of reviewers swooning over it. However, I think it gets overshadowed by other machines with more impressive feature-sets and higher prices.
This machine features dual thermoblocks that ensure stable espresso extractions as well as precise milk frothing. Its PID allows you to adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments, a level of precision usually reserved for higher-end machines. It also has a display that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit, instead of at the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing departure from most home espresso machines that use a simple digital display with blue numerals.
It also comes with a large and actively heated cup warmer, which is a excellent feature. Its steam wand is easy to use and has an auto-purge feature that doesn't burn after each use. It can also be programmed to allow two pre-infusions, which means you can set the amount of time the portafilter must be soaked before proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite a few minor issues. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up and precise temperature settings as well as its speedy heating ensure that your coffee will be made at the perfect temperature. Additionally, the programmable infusion helps you perfect your shot-making techniques.
The plastic tamper that comes with it and the surprising low power of steam are two aspects I would not recommend however, 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
If you're looking for an old-fashioned espresso machine that gives you the best bang for your money then look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. Featuring 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.
The Silvia comes with 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 ejector that can be filled when the machine is being used. It also has an automatic shutoff function and a temperature dial to ensure that your drinks are at the ideal temperature.
The steam wand is commercial quality and will allow you to make lattes and cappuccinos that are silky smooth that will impress your guests. The control knobs for brewing on the Silvia are simple to comprehend and let you choose your desired extraction and the brewing time to create a customized drink. The Silvia has proved to be durable, reliable and long-lasting since its 1997 release.
Rancilio is a family-owned company that is proud of their quality and craftsmanship. They stay always in touch with their community and take feedback. They develop products that are perfected through the tiny details.
This machine is a great choice for people who are just starting their journey into making espresso at home, but it can also be a solid upgrade over a moka maker under the supervision of a barista who is skilled. The machine isn't equipped with an exchanger for heat, so you will need to wait for some time between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth noting that the company puts each and every Silvia through a rigorous series of tests, so you can be certain that your equipment is safe to operate. If you do find that there's an issue with your Silvia manufacturer, they This Webpage offer a one-year warranty.