Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows and so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of a variety of high-end commercial machines currently available to customers.
These larger systems require greater precision from the user for grinding and tamping, as well as extraction time, yet they do most of the work.
This model is designed for those who views espresso as an intense hobby and would like complete control over the espresso process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a popular choice among espresso lovers. It's user-friendly and comes with all the features you require to ensure a top espresso shot every time. It's a great choice for those who wish to improve their coffee-making skills, but aren't yet ready to spend the money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion process, along with the high pressure extraction guarantees that the beans are evenly pressed, resulting in an even taste. You can also program distinct output volumes for one and two-shots with the click of a button, which is extremely beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating technology, which lets it warm up quickly in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in just three seconds which is significantly faster than other models.
Even the most novice of users will have no trouble pulling a perfect shot with this espresso machine, due to the automatic steam wand. It can create a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, as well as presets for lattes, cappuccinos, and much more. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam you can get from a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires tweaking and lots of practice. However, it can make a smooth, creamy latte or a cappuccino.
This model comes with an open reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It is also lightweight and compact which makes it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It also has a glass top that is easy to clean, an important aspect for those with small counter space.
While it's more expensive than other models but the Bambino Plus is worth the additional cost. It is easy to use, and has numerous great features. One of them is the auto-steam wand that will make milk froth for you. This is the ideal choice for those who want to make a great cup at home. Find out if you're approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 with the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a prosumer espresso machine that won't cost too much then the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It features many of the features you'd expect to find on the higher-end espresso machines that includes an electronic PID that regulates the temperature within a few degrees. It also comes with an actual steam wand that is that is connected to its own heating system to allow for fast steaming and making. It comes with a variety of energy-saving features, such as an eco mode, which automatically turns the machine off after a specific time of inactivity.
In addition as an additional bonus, as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a high-quality professional-grade 58mm portafilter. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and ensures that your espresso beans are evenly spread 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 fine-tune the pressure exerted on your grounds during extraction which allows you to play with different flavor profiles and techniques. This is an excellent feature for coffee enthusiasts particularly since many espresso machines leave 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 new users to use. However, it has several advanced features that be appealing to more experienced home baristas. The PID display can also be used as a shot-timer permitting you to keep track of your shots easily and ensure that they are perfect brewed. The brew and Steam buttons are illuminated to inform you when you've reached the proper temperature and pressure to begin brewing or steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its high-end quality and workmanship. 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, is well-known for its top-quality espresso machines for home use. They also make a few commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar. A quick YouTube search will show scores of reviewers who are drooling over it. But, I think it is a bit overshadowed by models with more impressive features and a higher price tag.
The machine is equipped with two thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions and accurate milk foaming. The PID in this machine lets you alter the temperature of brewing in one-degree increments. This degree of precision is typically reserved for machines that cost a lot of money. It also features a display that displays the temperature of brewing at the brew unit rather than at the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing change from the traditional digital display on most home espresso machines which use blue numbers.
It also comes with a large, actively heated cup warmer, which is a fantastic feature. Its steam wand has an easy-to-use feature that does not burn and automatically purge after each use. It can also be programmed for two sets of pre-infusion which means you can program in the time you'd like to let the portafilter soak before continuing with the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have some minor issues, it's an excellent home espresso machine. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up, precise temperatures and fast heating ensure that your coffee will be made at the perfect temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion allows you to perfect your shot-making skills.
I would knock it down one point for the plastic tamper that comes with it and its shockingly low steam power, but overall it is a great option for espresso lovers who want to make their own. If you're willing a little more then the Ascaso is well worth it because of its extra features and premium look.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking to buy a classic espresso machine that gives you the most value for your money, look no further than the Rancilio Silvia. With a single boiler that can be heated up for brewing as well as steaming the Silvia is simple to use and is available in a variety of colors to complement your home's style.
The Silvia also features stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are easy to clean and remove. This machine has a water reservoir that is removable and can be filled up while the machine is running and also has an automatic shutoff function and the temperature dial, which keeps your drinks at the perfect temperature for a perfect coffee experience.
Finally, the steam wand that comes with this machine is commercial grade and allows you to create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your friends. The control knobs for brewing on the Silvia are simple to comprehend, allowing you to select the desired extraction and the time of brewing for a custom drink. The Silvia has proven to be durable, reliable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned Italian company that is proud of its craftsmanship and quality. They stay in constant contact with their customers, and take feedback. They design products that are refined by the small 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 solid upgrade to an old moka pot under the guidance of a barista who is skilled. The machine doesn't have a heat exchanger, which means you'll need to wait for a few minutes between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth mentioning that the company puts every Silvia through a stringent series of tests, so you can be confident that your machine is safe on front page to use. If you find there is a problem with your Silvia it comes with a one-year guarantee.