Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the demand for espresso grows, so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of a variety of commercial machines of the highest quality are currently available to customers.
These heavier systems require more precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, yet do most of the work.
This model is for someone who sees espresso as a serious hobby and wants complete control over the espresso process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a popular choice among espresso enthusiasts. It's got the features to give you a perfect shot every time and isn't overly complicated in its operation either. It's ideal for people who are looking to improve their coffee-making abilities, but don't want to spend much money on a high-end commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion and stepped up high-pressure extraction ensure that the beans are evenly crushed for the best flavor. You can also program distinct output volumes for two shots and one by pressing a button, which is very beneficial for consistent 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 optimal temperature in the early morning. It will be hot and ready to go in just three seconds which is much faster than other models.
The automatic steam wand makes it easy for even the most novice users to pull a great shot. It comes with presets for cappuccinos, latte, and other milk textures and temperatures. It won't create the super-smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modding and lots of practice but it will create a smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has a water reservoir that is removable, which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also lightweight and compact making 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 little counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than the other models, is definitely worth the extra price. It's simple to use and comes with excellent features, including an automatic steam tool that can froth your milk for you. This is the ideal choice for anyone who wants to make a great cup at home. Find out if you are pre-approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 and free shipping8 when you purchase the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a prosumer espresso machine that doesn't cost too much and isn't too expensive, the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It comes with many features you'd expect to find on a higher-priced espresso machine that includes the digital PID that controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also comes with a solid steam wand connected to its own heating system to allow for near-simultaneous steaming and brewing. It also comes with a variety of energy efficiency features, like an eco mode that automatically sets the machine in standby mode after a certain period of inactivity, and an insulated boiler as well as a short water path that help to reduce the loss of heat.
In addition as an additional bonus, as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a professional-grade, high-quality portafilter that measures 58mm. This is a standard size for most commercial espresso machines , and it assists to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This means you get a better tasting and more evenly-distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to adjust the pressure that is imposed on your grounds during extraction and allows you to experiment with various flavors and techniques. This is an excellent feature for coffee enthusiasts 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 has a simple user interface that is simple for novices to use. It also has advanced features that be appealing to experienced baristas at home. The PID display can be used as a shot timer, permitting you to keep track of your shots easily and ensure they are brewed perfectly. There are lights in the area next to the brew and steam buttons to inform you that you have created enough pressure and temperature to allow brewing and steaming.
In addition, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy which speaks to its quality and craftsmanship. This machine will give you years of solid performance and reliability particularly if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso, a Spanish manufacturer, is well-known for its exceptional home espresso machines. They also make commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar. A quick YouTube search will reveal dozens of reviewers swooning over it. However, I believe it's overshadowed by models with more impressive features and a price tag that is higher.
This machine has dual thermoblocks that ensure stable espresso extractions, as well as accurate milk foaming. Its PID lets you alter the temperature of the brewing in one-degree increments, which is a level of precision usually reserved for more expensive machines. It also has a display that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit instead of at the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing departure from the simple digital display that is common to home espresso machines which use blue numbers.
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 a non-burn function that auto-purges after each use. It can also be programmed for two sets of pre-infusion that allows you to program in the time you'd like to let the portafilter soak before continuing with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite some minor problems. The Ascaso's quick heat-up time, precise temperatures and fast heating ensure that your coffee will always be made at the perfect temperature. Additionally, the pre-infusion programable makes it easier to perfect your shot-making abilities.
The plastic tamper included and the surprisingly low power of steam are two points that I'd like to point out but it's an excellent option for coffee lovers at home. If you're willing to pay a little more, the Ascaso is well worth it because of its extra features and its premium design.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking to buy a classic espresso machine that gives you the most bang for your money, look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. The Silvia has an individual boiler to make and steamed coffee. It is simple to use and comes in a variety of colors to match the aesthetic of your home.
The Silvia also features a stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are easy to clean and remove. This machine has a removable water reservoir that can be filled up when the machine is in operation as well as an automatic shutoff function as well as the temperature dial, which ensures your drinks are at the right temperature for a perfect coffee experience.
The steam wand in this machine is commercial-grade and lets you make silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls are simple to operate and let you customize your drink by selecting the desired extraction time and the temperature of brewing. The Silvia has been proven to be reliable, durable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned business which is proud of their quality and craftsmanship. They keep close contact with their community of espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and developing products that get the smallest important details right.
This machine is ideal for those who are just beginning to make espresso at home. It could also be a great upgrade from a moka pot if you're a barista. The machine doesn't have an exchanger for heat, so you will need to wait a few minutes between making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through a series of rigorous tests so that you can be sure that your machine will work safely. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty if you discover an issue.