Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows so do the choices for consumers. Many top-rated commercial machines, including top-of-the-line models, are now accessible to consumers 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 designed for those who views espresso as a serious hobby and wants complete control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
This small beauty is made by Breville is a top-pick for many espresso aficionados. It has the right features to give you a perfect shot every time and isn't too complicated to operate. It's ideal for those looking to improve their coffee-making abilities but aren't ready to invest in the top of the line commercial equipment.
The low-pressure pre-infusion process, along with the high-pressure extraction guarantees that the beans are evenly pressed, resulting in a balanced taste. You can also program different output volumes for two shots and one at the touch of a button, which is very beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating system, which allows it to rapidly heat up in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in only three seconds, which is a lot quicker than most other machines.
The automatic steam wand can make it simple for even the most novice users to make a fantastic shot. It comes with presets that can create cappuccinos, latte and other milk-based textures and temperatures. It's not able to create the silky smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on, professional-grade machine, which requires mods and a lot of practice, but it will still produce a satisfyingly smooth and creamy cappuccino or latte.
This model comes with an open reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also lightweight and compact which makes it easy to fit into small spaces. It also has a glass top that is easy to clean, an important aspect for those with little counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is definitely worth the extra price. It's easy to use and has a variety of great features, including an automatic steam wand that will make your milk frothy for you. It's the perfect option for anyone who wants a great cup of coffee at home. See if you're pre-approved - earn up to 10% back in rewards1 and free shipping8 with a new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a high-end espresso machine that doesn't cost too much and isn't too expensive, the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It has many of the features you would expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, including a digital PID which regulates the temperature to within a few degrees and an actual steam wand which is connected to its own heating circuit to allow near-simultaneous brewing and steaming. It also comes with a variety of energy efficiency features, including an eco mode that automatically puts the machine into standby after a specified time of inactivity, as well as an insulated boiler and a short water path that helps reduce heat loss.
As an additional bonus As an added bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a premium, professional-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and ensures that your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This, in turn, results in a more consistent and a better tasting espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you the ability to adjust the pressure exerted on the grounds of your coffee during extraction. You can find more info play around with different methods and flavors. This is an excellent feature for coffee lovers, especially as many espresso machines leave the factory with the pressure set too high (the Rancilio Silvia springs to mind).
The Diletta Mio is easy to use for beginners thanks to its easy-to-use interface. However, it also has some advanced features that will appeal to more experienced home baristas. The PID display can also be used as a shot-timer, permitting you to keep track of your shots without difficulty and ensure they are made to perfection. There are lights next to the steam and brew buttons to inform you when you have built up enough pressure and temperature to allow brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its high-end quality and craftsmanship. This machine will give you years of solid performance and reliability particularly if it's well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer that is known for its production of some outstanding home espresso machines and even a couple of commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will show dozens of reviewers who are drooling over it. But, I think it's overshadowed by machines with more impressive feature-sets and a higher price tag.
This machine is equipped with two thermoblocks to ensure stable espresso extractions and 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 has a display that shows the temperature of the brew in the brew unit rather than the boiler or thermoblock. This is a refreshing departure from the simple digital display of most espresso machines at home which use blue numbers.
It also comes with a large, active heated cup warmer, which is another excellent feature. Its steam wand is easy to use and comes with a non-burn feature that automatically purges after every use. It can also be programmed to allow two pre-infusions, which means that you can control the time for which the portafilter needs to be soaked prior to proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite some minor issues. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up and precise temperatures as well as quick heating ensure that your coffee will always be made at the perfect temperature. In addition, the pre-infusion that can be programmed helps you to improve your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper included and the surprising low power of steam are two points I would not recommend but it's a great choice for those who love espresso at home. If you're willing more, the Ascaso is worth the price because of its extra features and premium look.
The Rancilio Silvia
Rancilio Silvia is the perfect espresso machine for those who want the most value for money. The Silvia has one boiler that can be used to brew and steamed coffee. It is easy to use, and comes in a variety of colors to match the aesthetic of your home.
The Silvia comes with stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are easy to clean and remove. This machine features an ejector that can be filled when the machine is in use. It also comes with an automatic shutoff feature and a temperature dial that will ensure that your drinks are at the perfect temperature.
Lastly, the steam wand that comes with this machine is commercial-grade and lets you make silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will delight your friends. The brewing control knobs on the Silvia are easy to grasp and let you choose your desired extraction as well as the brewing time to create a customized drink. The Silvia has proved to be reliable, durable and long-lasting since its 1997 release.
Rancilio is a family-owned Italian business that takes pride in its craftsmanship and quality. They are in constant contact with their community and take feedback. They create products that are refined by the tiny details.
This machine is a great option for those who are just beginning their journey to making espresso at home, but it can also be a good upgrade from an old moka maker under the supervision of a professional barista. The biggest downside to this machine is that it doesn't have an exchanger, so you'll need to wait for a minute or two between making milk-based beverages.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests so that you can be sure that your machine will function safely. If you find there is any issue with your Silvia, the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty.