Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of many high-end commercial machines now available for customers.
These heavier systems require more precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, but they can do the bulk of the work.
espresso machine with frother is designed for those who enjoy espresso as a pastime and want complete control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's small beauty is a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts. It's got the features to deliver a great shot every time, and it's not overly complicated in its operation either. It's a great choice for those who want to improve their coffee-making abilities but aren't ready to spend the money on the top of the line commercial equipment.
Its low pressure pre-infusion and stepped up high-pressure extraction ensure that the beans are evenly pressed for a balanced flavor. You can also set different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots at the touch of a single button. This can be very beneficial to achieve consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating system, which lets it heat up quickly in the morning. It's ready to use in only three seconds which is a lot faster than other machines.
The steam wand's automatic feature will make it easy for even the most novice users to pull off a great shot. It can create a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, along with presets for lattes, cappuccinos, and many more. It won't produce the super-smooth microfoam you can get from a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires tweaking and a lot of practice. However, it can produce an incredibly smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with a removable reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also light and compact, which helps it fit nicely into small spaces. It also has a glass counter that is easy to clean, an important aspect for those who have limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than the other models, is worth the extra price. It's simple to use, and comes with many wonderful features. One of them is the auto-steam wand, which will make milk froth for you. This is the perfect choice for anyone looking to make a fantastic cup at home. Find out if you're pre-approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 along with free shipping8 when you purchase the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great option if you're looking for an inexpensive espresso maker for your home. It features many of the features you'd expect to find on a higher-priced espresso machine such as a digital PID which controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also has a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating system that allows for fast steaming and making. It also comes with a variety of energy efficiency features, such as an optional eco mode that automatically puts the machine into standby after a specified timer, and an insulated boiler and a short water path that helps reduce heat loss.
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 even and more delicious espresso.
Another thing that distinguishes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is its adjustable OPV valve. This allows you the ability to alter the pressure that is applied on the coffee grounds during extraction. You can experiment with different flavors and techniques. This is a fantastic feature for coffee enthusiasts, especially as 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 makes it easy for beginners to use. However, it also has certain advanced features that will appeal to more experienced baristas at home. The PID display can also be used as a shot timer, allowing you to monitor your shots easily and ensure they are perfect brewed. The brew and Steam buttons are lit up to let you know if you've reached the right temperature and pressure for steaming or brewing.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its quality and craftsmanship. This is an item that will provide you with years of reliable performance and reliable service, particularly when it is maintained properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for making excellent espresso machines for home use and even a couple of commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will show scores of reviewers drooling over it. I do think that it's overshadowed, however, by other machines that offer more features and are priced higher.
The machine is equipped with two thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions as well as precise milk foaming. Its PID allows you to alter the temperature of the brewing in one-degree increments, a degree of precision that is usually reserved for larger machines. It also has a display that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit rather than at the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing departure from the traditional digital display that is common to espresso machines in the home that use blue digits.
It also comes with a large, actively heated cup warmer, which is another excellent feature. Its steam wand is easy to use and has a non-burn function that auto-purges after every use. It is also programmable to allow two pre-infusions so you can set the amount of time the portafilter should be soaked prior to beginning the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite a few minor problems. Its rapid heating process and precise temperatures ensure that your coffee is always at the optimal temperature. Additionally, the pre-infusion programable allows you to improve your shot-making skills.
I would knock it down by a few points due to the plastic tamper included and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall it is an excellent option for those who love home espresso. If you're willing a little more then the Ascaso is well worth it for its extra features and its premium design.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for a classic espresso machine that can give you the best bang for your buck, look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. With a single boiler that can be heated up for brewing as well as steaming, the Silvia is simple to use and is available in a variety of colors to match the style of your home.
The Silvia comes with stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are simple to clean and remove. This machine comes with a water reservoir that is removable and can be filled up when the machine is running as well as an automatic shutoff feature and a temperature dial that keeps your drinks at the ideal temperature for a perfect coffee experience.
Finally, the steam wand on this machine is commercial grade and allows you to create silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your guests. The Silvia's brewing controls can be simple to operate and let you customize your drink by choosing the desired extraction time and the temperature of brewing. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting, and reliable, which is why it has been able to stand the test of time since its first release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned company that takes pride in their craftsmanship and quality. They stay in constant contact with their community, and take feedback. They develop products that are perfected through the small aspects.
This machine is ideal for those just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be a great upgrade from moka pots if your a barista. The machine isn't equipped with a heat exchanger, which means you'll need to wait for some time between making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests to be certain that the machine will operate safely. If you discover that there is a problem with your Silvia, the manufacturer offers a one-year guarantee.