Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows as do the options for consumers. Many top-rated commercial machines, including top-of-the-line models, are now accessible to customers as prosumer models.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, but do most of the work.
This model is for someone who views espresso as an intense hobby and would like full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a favorite among coffee lovers. It has the right features to deliver a great shot every time and isn't too complicated in its operation either. It's ideal for those who are looking to improve their coffee-making abilities, but don't want to spend much money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion system and the accelerated high-pressure extraction will ensure that the beans are evenly pressed to ensure an even flavor. You can also set different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots by pressing of a button. This is very helpful to achieve consistently good results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This means you won't need to wait until it reaches the right temperature in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in only three seconds which is much faster than other models.
Even the most novice user will have no trouble pulling a perfect shot with this espresso machine, due to the automatic steam wand. It can produce a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, with presets for cappuccinos, lattes, and much more. It's not going to create the super-smooth, microfoam you get with a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires modifying and a lot of practice. But it can create an incredibly smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has an adjustable water reservoir which makes it easy to clean and refill. It is also lightweight and compact which makes it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It also has a glass top that is easy to clean, which is an important feature for those with small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is definitely worth the extra cost. It's user-friendly and has a variety of great features, including a convenient auto-steam wand that can create froth for your milk. This is the perfect choice for those who want to make a great cup at home. See if you're pre-approved - earn up to 10% back in rewards1 plus free shipping8 with the new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're in the market for a professional espresso machine that doesn't cost too much, the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It includes many of the key features you'd expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, like a digital PID which regulates the temperature to within a few degrees and a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit to allow near-simultaneous brewing and steaming. It has many energy-saving options, including an eco mode that automatically shuts off the machine after a set period of inactivity.
As an additional bonus As an added bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a professional-grade, high-quality portafilter that measures 58mm. This is a standard size used by most commercial espresso machines, and it helps to ensure that all of your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This is a result in a more uniform and better-tasting espresso.
Another thing that makes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is the adjustable OPV valve. This lets you fine-tune the pressure exerted on your grounds during extraction, allowing 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 has a simple user interface that makes it easy for beginners to use. However, it also includes some advanced features that will appeal to more experienced home baristas. For instance, the PID display doubles as a shot timer, which will let you easily monitor your shots and make sure that they are brewed to perfection. There are also lights next to the brew and steam buttons to inform you when you have achieved enough pressure and temperature for the brewing and steaming.
Finally, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy which confirms its quality and craftsmanship. This is a machine that will provide you with years of solid performance and reliable service, particularly when you maintain it properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for producing some outstanding home espresso machines and even a couple of commercial models. A quick YouTube search will reveal that many reviewers are drooling over the Steel Duo PID. However, I think it is a bit overshadowed by models that have more advanced features and a higher price tag.
This machine is equipped with dual thermoblocks for reliable espresso extractions as well as precise milk foaming. The PID on this machine lets you alter the temperature of brewing in one-degree increments. This degree of precision is typically reserved for expensive machines. It also has a display that shows the temperature of the brew in the brew unit rather than the thermoblock or boiler. This is a welcome departure from the traditional digital display of most espresso machines at home that use blue numbers.
Another feature that is great is the large, active cup warmer. Its steam wand has an easy-to-use feature that does not burn and automatically cleanses after every use. It's also programmable to allow two pre-infusion sets that allows you to program the amount you want to soak the portafilter prior to proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have a few minor issues, it's an excellent home espresso machine. Its fast heat-up time and precise temperatures ensure that your coffee is always at the perfect temperature. Additionally, the pre-infusion programable makes it easier to perfect your shot-making abilities.
I would give it one point for the included plastic tamper and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall it is a fantastic 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 to buy a classic espresso machine that will give you the most bang for your money Look at the Rancilio Silvia. Featuring a single boiler that is heated for brewing and steaming, the Silvia is easy to use and is available in different colors to match your home's aesthetic.
Silvia Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to take off and clean, as well as maintain. The Silvia has a water reservoir that is removable and can be filled when the machine is running, as well as an automatic shutoff feature espresso coffee machine uk and the temperature dial, which ensures your drinks are at the perfect temperature to provide the best coffee experience.
The steam wand is of commercial grade and will allow you to make silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your guests. The controls for brewing on the Silvia are simple to understand and let you choose your desired extraction and brew time for a custom drink. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable and reliable, which is why it has stood the test of time since its first release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned business that takes pride in its craftsmanship and quality. They keep close contact with their espresso lovers, observing feedback and designing products that get the smallest important details right.
This machine is a great choice for people who are just beginning their journey to making espresso at home, but it can also be a good upgrade over a moka pot in the hands of a professional barista. The main drawback to this machine is that it does not have a heat exchanger, so you'll have to wait for a couple of minutes between making milk-based beverages.
It's also worth mentioning that the company puts every Silvia through a rigorous series of tests, so that you can be certain that your machine is safe to operate. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty in the event of a problem.