Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, so do consumer choices. Many top-rated, high-end commercial machines are now accessible to consumers as models for prosumers.
These heavier systems require more precision from the user in grinding, tamping and extraction time, yet they do the majority of the work.
This model is for someone who views espresso as an important pastime and wants full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
This little beauty is made by Breville is a top-pick for a lot of espresso lovers. It's got the features to give you a perfect shot every time, and it's not overly complicated to operate. It's perfect for those who want to improve their coffee-making skills, but don't want to spend a lot of money on a high-end commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion and increased high-pressure extraction ensure that the beans are evenly pressed to ensure a balanced flavor. You can also program different output volumes for one and two-shots at the touch of the button, which is very beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating system, which allows it to heat up quickly in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in less than three seconds, which is a lot faster than other models.
The automatic steam wand can make it simple for even the most novice users to make a fantastic shot. It can produce a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, along with presets for lattes, cappuccinos, and more. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam you can get from an actual professional-grade machine which requires modding and lots of practice. But it can produce a smooth, creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with a removable reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also light and compact making it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It also has a glass lid that's easy to keep clear, which is an important feature for those with a limited counter space.
While it's more expensive than some other models however, the Bambino Plus is worth the additional cost. It's user-friendly and has a variety of excellent features, including an auto-steam wand that will make your milk frothy for you. It's the perfect option for anyone looking to make an excellent coffee at home. Check if you're pre-approved. earn up to 10% in rewards1 and free shipping8 with the new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great alternative if you're in the market for an inexpensive prosumer espresso maker. It comes with many features you'd expect to find in a higher-priced espresso machine that includes an electronic PID that regulates the temperature within a couple of degrees. It also has a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating system to allow for near-simultaneous steaming and the brewing. It has many energy-saving options, including an eco mode, which automatically shuts off the machine after a certain period of inactivity.
Additionally, the Diletta Mio comes with a premium, professional-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is a standard size that is used by the majority of commercial espresso machines, and it assists to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This is a result in a more uniform and better-tasting espresso.
Another thing that makes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is the adjustable OPV valve. This lets you fine-tune the pressure that is imposed on your coffee during extraction and allows you to experiment with different flavors and techniques. This is a fantastic option for those who love coffee, as many espresso machines come with a pressure that is too high.
The Diletta Mio is easy to use for beginners due to its easy-to-use interface. However, it also includes several advanced features that appeal to baristas with more experience in the home. For instance, the PID display doubles as a shot timer, which will allow you to easily monitor your shots and make sure that they are brewed to perfection. The brew and Steam buttons are illuminated to indicate when you've reached the correct temperature and pressure for brewing or steaming.
In addition, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy this speaks to its quality and craftsmanship. This machine can provide years of solid performance and reliability particularly if it's well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso the Spanish manufacturer, is renowned for its top-quality espresso machines for home use. They also produce commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that dozens of reviewers are admiring the Steel Duo PID. But, I think it's overshadowed by models with more impressive features and a price tag that is higher.
This machine comes with dual thermoblocks for reliable espresso extractions as well as precise milk frothing. The PID on this machine allows you to alter the temperature of brewing in one-degree increments. This degree of precision is normally reserved for expensive machines. It also displays the temperature of the brew in the brew unit instead of the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing change from the standard digital display that is common to home espresso machines, which uses blue digits.
It also comes with a large, actively heated cup warmer, which is a excellent feature. The steam wand comes with an easy-to-use non-burn feature that automatically cleanses after each use. It can also be programmed to allow for two pre-infusions, which means you can set the amount of time the portafilter needs to be soaked before proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a great home espresso machine, despite some minor issues. Its quick heating time and precise temperatures ensure that your coffee is always made at the perfect temperature. In addition, the pre-infusion that can be programmed allows you to improve your shot-making abilities.
The plastic tamper that comes with it and the surprising low power of steam are two things I would not recommend however, this is an excellent choice for espresso lovers at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra cost for its elegant design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for a classic espresso machine that can give you the most value for your buck, look at the Rancilio Silvia. Featuring a single boiler that can be heated up for brewing as well as steaming the Silvia is simple to use and is available in different colors to complement your home's style.
The Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to take off and clean, as well as maintain. The Silvia comes with an ejector that can be filled while the machine is being used. It also has an automatic shutoff feature as well as a temperature dial that will keep your drinks at just the ideal temperature.
Lastly, the steam wand that comes with this machine is commercial grade and allows you to create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will surely impress your friends. The brewing control knobs on the Silvia are easy to grasp and allow you to choose the desired extraction and brew time for a custom drink. The Silvia has proven 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 keep close contact with their community of espresso lovers, listening to feedback and developing products that get the smallest important details right.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning to make espresso at home. It about his could also be a great upgrade from moka pots if you're a barista. This machine does not have a heat-exchanger, which means you will need to wait some time between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth noting that the company puts every Silvia through a rigorous series of tests so that you can be certain that your equipment is safe to use. The manufacturer offers a one-year warranty in the event of any issues.