Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, as do the options for consumers. A variety of top-rated, high-end commercial machines are now available to consumers as prosumer models.
These heavier systems require greater precision from the user to ensure grinding and tamping, as well as extraction time, yet they do most of the work.
This model is ideal for those who considers espresso to be an intense hobby and would like complete control over the espresso process.
The Bambino Plus
This little beauty is made by Breville is a top-pick for a lot of espresso lovers. It's got all the features to make a fantastic shot every time, and it's not overly complicated to use. It's a great choice for those who want to improve their coffee-making skills, but aren't yet ready to invest in an expensive commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, combined with the high pressure extraction guarantees that the beans will be evenly pressed to produce an even flavor. You can also program different output volumes for two shots and one-shots with the touch of a button. This is very helpful to achieve consistently good results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating technology, which means you won't have to wait around until it reaches the ideal temperature in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in just three seconds which is much quicker than most other machines.
The automatic steam wand can make it simple for even the most novice users to pull off a great shot. It is able to create a broad range of milk temperatures and textures, along with presets for cappuccinos, lattes, and more. It won't produce the super-smooth microfoam you can get from an actual professional-grade machine which requires modding and lots of practice. But it can create an incredibly smooth and creamy latte or a cappuccino.
This model comes with a removable reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also compact and lightweight which makes it easy to fit in small spaces. It also has a glass counter that is easy to clean, an important feature for those who have small counter space.
While it's more expensive than other models, the Bambino Plus is worth the cost. It's simple to use and comes with amazing features, such as an auto-steam tool that can make your milk frothy for you. This is the ideal choice for those who want to make a delicious cup at home. Find out if your pre-approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 and free shipping8 when you purchase a Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're in the market for a professional espresso machine that won't cost too much, the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It includes many of the key 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 fast steaming and brewing at the same time. It comes with a variety of energy-saving features, such as eco mode, which will automatically shut off the machine after a set period of inactivity.
In addition as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a professional-grade, high-quality portafilter measuring 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, in turn, results in a more even and a better tasting espresso.
Another thing that makes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is an adjustable OPV valve. This allows you to fine-tune the pressure exerted on your grounds during extraction and allows you to experiment with different methods and flavors. 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 is simple for beginners to use. It also has advanced features which will be appealing to experienced baristas at home. The PID display can be used as a shot-timer, which allows you to track your shots easily and ensure that they are brewed perfectly. There are also lights in the area next to the brew and steam buttons to inform you when you have built up enough pressure and temperature for the brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its high-end quality and workmanship. This is a machine that will give you years of reliable performance and reliable service, particularly when you maintain it properly.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso, a Spanish manufacturer, is known for its outstanding espresso machines for home use. They also produce commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that a lot of reviewers are admiring the Steel Duo PID. However, I think it gets overshadowed by other machines with more impressive feature-sets and a price tag that is higher.
This machine comes with two thermoblocks to ensure reliable espresso extractions as well as precise milk foaming. The PID lets you alter the temperature of the brewing in one-degree increments, a level of precision usually reserved for more expensive machines. It also has a display showing the brew temperature at the brew unit, rather than the thermoblock or boiler. This is a welcome change from most home espresso machines which use a basic digital display with blue digits.
It also comes with a large, active heated cup warmer, which is another fantastic feature. Its steam wand is easy to use and comes with an auto-purge feature that doesn't burn after every use. It is also programmable to allow two pre-infusions, which means that you can set the length of time that the portafilter should be soaked prior to proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have a few minor issues, overall it's an excellent espresso machine. Its fast heat-up time and precise temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always at the perfect temperature. Additionally, the programmable infusion helps you perfect your shot-making techniques.
I would give it one point for the included plastic tamper and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall this is a fantastic option for espresso lovers who want to make their own. If you're willing to spend more, the Ascaso is worth the price for its additional features and a premium appearance.
The Rancilio Silvia
Rancilio Silvia is the perfect espresso machine for those looking for the best bang-for-your-buck. Featuring a single boiler that heats up for brewing and steaming, the Silvia is easy to use and comes in different colors to complement your home's style.
The Silvia also features stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are easy to remove and clean. This machine features an ejector which can be filled up while the machine is in use. It also has an automatic shutoff function and an adjustable temperature dial to keep your drinks at just the perfect temperature.
The steam wand on this machine is commercial grade and lets you make silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your friends. The controls for brewing on the Silvia are easy to grasp and let you choose the desired extraction and brew time for a custom drink. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable, and robust, which is the reason it has stood the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned business that takes pride in its craftsmanship and quality. They are in constant contact with their community of espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and designing products that get the little things right.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be a replacement for moka pots if your a barista. The biggest drawback of this machine is that it does not have a heat here exchanger, so you will need to wait a couple of minutes before making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests to be certain that the machine will function safely. The manufacturer provides a one-year warranty in the event of any issues.