Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, as do the options for consumers. Prosumer models of many commercial machines are now available for consumers.
These heavier systems require more precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, yet they do the majority of the work.
This model is for someone who sees espresso as an intense hobby and would like full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's small beauty is a cult favorite among espresso lovers. It's got all the features to deliver a great shot every time and isn't overly complicated to operate. It's a great choice for those who want to improve their coffee making abilities but aren't ready to splurge on the top of the line commercial equipment.
The low-pressure pre-infusion process, along with the high pressure extraction ensures that the beans will be evenly pressed, resulting in an even taste. You can also program different output volumes for two shots and one-shots with the touch of a single button. This can be very beneficial to ensure consistently good results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This means you won't have to wait for it to get to the optimal temperature in the early morning. It will be hot and ready to go in just three seconds, which is a lot quicker than the majority of other machines.
Even the most novice user will have no trouble pulling a perfect shot with this espresso machine, because of the steam-powered automatic wand. It comes with presets that can create cappuccinos, latte and other milk types and temperatures. It won't produce the super-smooth microfoam that you get from an actual professional-grade machine which requires tweaking and lots of practice. But it can make a smooth, creamy latté or a cappuccino.
This model has a removable reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also light and compact which makes it easy to fit in small spaces. It has a glass top that is easy to clean, an important feature for those with limited counter space.
Although it's a bit more expensive than some other models but the Bambino Plus is worth the cost. It's user-friendly and comes with great features, including an automatic steam wand that will make your milk frothy for you. It's the ideal choice for anyone who would like an excellent cup of espresso at home. Find out if your approved and earn 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 when you purchase a Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great option if you're looking for a low-cost espresso maker for your home. It has many features that you'd expect to find in an espresso machine that is more expensive, including a digital PID which controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also comes with a solid steam wand connected to its own heating system to allow for fast steaming and making. It has many energy-saving options, including eco mode, which will automatically shut off the machine after a specific period of inactivity.
Additionally, as an additional 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 espresso beans are evenly distributed during extraction. This is a result in a more uniform and more delicious espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to adjust the pressure that is imposed on your coffee during extraction, allowing you to experiment with various flavor profiles and techniques. This is a fantastic alternative for coffee lovers, as many espresso machines are sold with the pressure too high.
The Diletta Mio is easy to use for beginners due to its easy-to-use interface. However, it also has some advanced features that will appeal to more experienced baristas at home. The PID display can be used as a shot-timer, which allows you to track your shots with ease and ensure they're made to perfection. The Steam and Brew buttons are illuminated to indicate when you've reached the correct temperature and pressure for brewing or steaming.
In addition, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy this confirms its quality and workmanship. This is an item that will provide you with years of why not look here solid performance and reliable service, especially when it is maintained properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer, is well-known for its outstanding home espresso machines. They also make commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that dozens of reviewers are drooling at the Steel Duo PID. I think it's being overshadowed by other devices with more advanced features and are priced higher.
This machine has dual thermoblocks that ensure stable espresso extractions, as well as accurate milk frothing. The PID of this machine allows you to adjust brewing temperatures in one-degree increments. This degree of precision is typically reserved for machines that cost a lot of money. It also has a display that displays the temperature of the brew in the brew unit rather than the boiler or thermoblock. This is a refreshing departure from the traditional digital display of most home espresso machines which use blue digits.
Another feature that is great is the large, active cup warmer. The steam wand features an easy-to-use non-burn feature that automatically purge after each use. It can also be programmed to allow for two pre-infusions, so that you can set the amount of time the portafilter should be soaked before proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have some minor issues, overall it's a great home espresso machine. Its quick heating time and precise temperatures ensure your coffee is always made at the right temperature. Plus, the programmable pre-infusion allows you to improve your shot-making abilities.
The plastic tamper included and the low-power of steam are two points that I would criticize, but this is an excellent choice for espresso lovers at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra money for its elegant design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for an old-fashioned espresso machine that gives you the most bang for your money Look at the Rancilio Silvia. It has a single boiler which heats up for brewing and steaming the Silvia is easy to use and can be purchased in different colors to fit with the style of your home.
The Silvia features 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 an ejector that can be filled when the machine is in use. It also has an automatic shutoff feature and a temperature dial to keep your drinks at just the right temperature.
The steam wand that comes with this machine is commercial grade and lets you create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will surely delight your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls are simple to operate and allow you to customize your drink by selecting the desired extraction time and brew temperature. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting 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 that is proud of their quality and craftsmanship. They stay constantly in contact with their community and take feedback. They create products that are refined by the small little details.
This machine is a great option for those just beginning their journey in making espresso at home. However, it could also be a good upgrade over a moka maker under the supervision of a barista who is skilled. This machine does not have a heat-exchanger, which means you will need to wait several minutes between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth mentioning that the company puts each and every Silvia through a rigorous set of tests so that you can be sure that your machine is safe to operate. The manufacturer provides a one-year warranty if you find an issue.