Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, so do consumer options. Prosumer models of many high-end commercial machines now available for consumers.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, but they can do the bulk of the work.
This model is for someone who views espresso as an important pastime and wants complete control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a popular choice among espresso lovers. It's got all the features to give you a perfect shot every time and isn't overly complicated to operate. It's perfect for those looking to improve their skills in coffee making, but don't want to spend a lot of money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, when combined with the high-pressure extraction ensures that the beans will be evenly pressed to give a balanced taste. You can also set different output volumes for two shots and one-shots with the touch of a button. This can be very beneficial to ensure consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. espresso pod machine Coffeee won't need to wait for it to reach the right temperature in the morning. It'll be ready for use in just three second, which is much quicker than other models.
The steam wand's automatic feature makes 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, with presets for cappuccinos and lattes and many more. It's not able to create the silky smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modifying and a lot of practice, but it will still produce a satisfyingly smooth and creamy cappuccino or latte.
This model has an adjustable water reservoir that makes it simple to clean and refill. It is also light and compact making it easy to fit into small spaces. It also has a glass counter that is easy to clean, another important feature for those who have small counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra cost. It's easy to use and offers excellent features, including a convenient auto-steam tool that can create froth for your milk. This is the ideal choice for anyone looking to make a great cup at home. Find out if your pre-approved and earn up to 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 prosumer espresso maker. It has many features that you'd expect to find in an espresso machine that is more expensive that includes a digital PID which controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also comes with a solid steam wand that is connected to its heating system that allows for near-simultaneous steaming and brewing. It also comes with a variety of energy efficiency features, including an eco mode that automatically sets the machine in standby mode after a specified timer, and an insulated boiler as well as a short water path that help reduce heat loss.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industrial-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is the standard size for most commercial espresso machines, and it assists to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This will result in a more consistent and more delicious espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This gives you the ability to alter the pressure that is applied on the grounds of your coffee during extraction. You can test different flavors and techniques. This is a fantastic feature for coffee lovers especially since a lot of espresso machines are shipped out of the factory with the pressure set too high (the Rancilio Silvia springs to mind).
The Diletta Mio is easy to use for novices due to its easy-to-use interface. It also comes with advanced features that will appeal to experienced home baristas. The PID display can also be used as a shot timer, permitting you to keep track of your shots with ease and ensure they are perfect brewed. The Steam and Brew buttons are lit up to inform you when you've reached the right temperature and pressure for brewing or steaming.
Finally, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy which is a testimony to its high-end quality and craftsmanship. This machine will give you years of solid performance and reliability, especially if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for making some outstanding home espresso machines and even a couple of commercial models. A quick YouTube search will reveal that many reviewers are admiring the Steel Duo PID. I do think that it is overshadowed, however, by other machines that offer more features and cost more.
This machine is equipped with two thermoblocks that ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk foaming. The PID of this machine allows you to adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments. This degree of precision is normally reserved for high-end machines. It also has a display that displays the temperature of the brew at the brew unit, not the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing change from the standard digital display of most home espresso machines that use blue digits.
Another great feature is the large, active cup warmer. The steam wand is simple to use and comes with a non-burn function that auto-purges after each 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 beginning the extraction.
While the Ascaso has a few minor issues, it's an excellent home espresso machine. Its fast heat-up time and precise temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always made at the optimal temperature. Plus, the programmable pre-infusion makes it easier to perfect your shot-making skills.
I would give it a few points for the plastic tamper included and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall this is a fantastic choice for home espresso lovers. The Ascaso is worth the extra money for its premium look and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is the ideal 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 can be purchased in different colors to fit with the style of your home.
The Silvia also features a stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are simple to clean and remove. This machine has a water reservoir that is removable and can be filled up when the machine is running as well as an automatic shutoff function as well as the temperature dial, which keeps your drinks at the perfect temperature for the ideal coffee experience.
Lastly, the steam wand on this machine is commercial-grade and lets you make silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will surely delight your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls are simple to operate and allow you to personalize 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 Italian company that is proud of its quality and craftsmanship. They stay always in touch with their community, and listen to feedback. They design products that are refined by the small aspects.
This machine is a great option for those just beginning their journey in making espresso at home. However, it can also be a good upgrade to an old moka pot in the hands of a skilled barista. The machine doesn't have an exchanger for heat, so you will need to wait several minutes between making milk-based drinks.
It is also important to note that the company puts each and every Silvia through a rigorous series of tests so that you can be sure that your machine is safe to use. The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty if you discover a problem.
