The Best Home Espresso Machine
A superautomatic espresso machine is a great choice for someone who doesn't have barista experience but would like to enjoy a quality cup of coffee at home. These machines have automatic features and are also digitally-controlled. They also are quick to heat up and don't occupy much counter space.
This model comes with a programmable volumetric dose as well as an adjustable preinfusion. It also comes with steam wand as well as a commercial-grade group head.
1. Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus, despite its cute name, is a serious machine. It is packed with features and makes it a great option for those looking to upgrade from the basic Breville espresso machines or need an automated alternative to manual.
It has an PID controller that performs the hard work of temperature control and pressure control so that it's ready for brewing when you press the button. It also uses the technology known as Thermo Jet, which lets it heat up in only 3 seconds, meaning you can enjoy your espresso quicker than other espresso machines for home use (which take between 10 and 30 minutes to warm up).
This machine was built with simplicity in mind, which is why there's just one button that can control everything. You can select a single shot or a double shot, and set the brewing time which is something you can't do with other espresso machines at this price. The brushed stainless steel finish gives it a classy look, and its compact dimensions make it ideal for those who have limited space for countertops or a small kitchen.
The Bambino Plus includes everything you require to get started with brewing. It comes with a metal 54mm tamper as well as a dose trimming tool. This is the only machine of its kind that does this. It demonstrates how Breville intends to ensure that their products are as secure and reliable as they can. It also comes with built-in reminders for cleaning and descaling to ensure it runs smoothly.
If you're new to espresso coffee, the Bambino Plus is arguably the ideal basic home espresso machine. It's user-friendly and has a quick heat-up time, and does a good job of automatically blending milk for you. The high cost of the product could be too expensive for some people.
2. De'Longhi Stilosa
The De'Longhi Stilosa manual espresso machine is an excellent, budget-friendly choice that's perfect for both beginners and coffee enthusiasts. It's easy-to-use, looks good on the counter, and can make excellent cappuccinos, espressos, and lattes. However, it has a few disadvantages that need to be taken into consideration.
The Stilosa scored below average in its brew control and quality in our metrics for brewing. This was mostly due to its small filter baskets and the absence of temperature control, which limit your ability to customize the extraction process. We liked the fact that this unit can be heated quickly and that the spout can be adjusted to a good height.
It also comes with a handy water tank that can hold up to 34 ounces and comes with a built-in indicator for the level to tell you when it's time to refill. It is removable, which can be useful if you need to clean it or don't have access a sink. Another new feature on this model is a removable drip tray that lets you place taller cups underneath the spout.
In our steaming measurements, the Stilosa also fell short. This was due to its limited control over the steam temperature and lack of a pre-infusion option that are typical features on more expensive machines. Despite these flaws we were pleased with the fact that it doesn't require any maintenance and is covered by a one-year warranty. For the price and the performance it's a great choice. De'Longhi Stilosa makes a great addition to any home coffee bar. It's a little simpler to use than other models we've tested, and will save you money on paying for cafe drinks.
3. Breville Barista Express Impress
The Breville Barista Express Impress (that's an impressive name, don't you think?) is a machine made specifically for those who are interested in learning about espresso. This single boiler, pump-driven machine is designed to make it easy for anyone to make an espresso shot that is decent without sacrificing flavor or brewing consistency.
The simple controls make it simple to adjust the settings for the grinder, tamper and brew groups. You can choose between double or single shots, and your preferred temperature. The thermocoil heater built-in ensures that your espresso is ready to go within 30 seconds. This is a lot faster than the 30-minute wait most single boiler machines require to be at temperature.
The "impressive" dosing-andamping system that works with the tamper, dials in the right amount of ground coffee for each shot. The system utilizes an integrated sensor that measures the depth of the basket, and adjusts amount of ground coffee dispensed. If you're not sure of your ability to regulate the grind size and temperature of the water, the machine has presets that can help.
Finally, the Barista Express Impress includes the infamous single-hole steam wand that can produce some stunning artworks of latte as well. It's the same wand you can find in Breville's sophisticated, premium Barista Express models, and it's an absolute delight.
I'm not a big fan of coffee shortcuts, fully automated machines or even pods. However, the Impress does exactly what it says without being daunting or taking the enjoyment from making espresso. I'm pleased with it and recommend it to everyone!
4. Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio makes a great option for home baristas that prioritize quality, design and ease of usage. Its sleek design, professional-grade components, and constant performance make it an eye-catching addition to your coffee corner. It's also a great option for beginners who want to understand the basics of steaming and espresso without getting overwhelmed by programming and complexity.
One of the most impressive aspects of this machine is its brew boiler controlled by PID, which ensures rapid warm-up times and stable water temperature. This is crucial, particularly for espresso, as even tiny variations in temperature of the water can alter the taste and quality of the espresso.
The Diletta's separate steaming thermoblock is another thing that stands out. It allows you to steam milk and make espresso at the simultaneously. This is a huge time-saver, and it helps to ensure that your milk is of the proper texture for your beverages. This saves energy as it only draws energy only when it is required.
The machine has a pressure gauge on the head of the group. It's a nice touch because it lets you monitor your extraction pressure live. You can adjust the OPV to fine-tune the extraction, which gives you an option of personalization that's normally reserved for more expensive machines.
The Diletta also has an accessible side-by-side, easy-to-clean water tank, and an optional energy-saving mode that can be adjusted in increments of 10 minutes up to two hours. Its insulated boiler wrap further reduces heat loss, and its dual-temperature technology reduces static electricity, which means less waste and lower energy bills.
Some users have complained about the long repair time and the poor quality of this machine. Diletta has been criticized for its poor customer support and inability to resolve warranty issues.
5. Jura E8
This premium super-automatic espresso machine comes with a dizzying variety of specially-programmed drinks that can be accessed by pressing one button. It can also make macchiato, cappuccino, ristretto, and flat whites, as well as tea, hot chocolate, and plain coffee. Its modern brewing technology and elegant color display are only a few of the attributes that distinguish this machine from other machines.
The E8 uses the Aroma G3 grinder to grind whole beans quickly and accurately. It also has 8 grind settings, which could seem like a lot when compared to other espresso maker super-automatics which only offer 3 or 4. However, the higher range gives you more control over the size and the consistency of your grind and this is crucial for creating a great cup of coffee.
In addition to its powerful burr grinder, the Jura E8 has an intelligent pre-infusion system as well as a pulse extraction process that are both responsible for making a top-quality cup of espresso each time. The PEP process utilizes short bursts of water to force the coffee through the grinder, which allows for full flavor extraction. The coffee is more full and more flavorful than instant coffee brewed with the Keurig.
The Jura E8 is designed to make a wide variety of drinks and it does it very well. It produces excellent, strong espresso and smooth cappuccino. The only downside is that it's unable to make a proper latte, which requires the pressure of a steam boiler to create an extremely thick foam.
This machine is not as difficult to clean as super automatics. It will automatically clean itself and descale after every use. It can also be programmed to perform more thorough cleaning at least every two years. It will remind you to change the filter every 80 drinks.