Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, as do the options for consumers. Prosumer models of a variety of commercial machines are can now be purchased by consumers.
These heftier systems demand greater precision from the user in grinding or tamping as well as extraction time, yet they do most of the work for you.
This model is made for those who take espresso as a pastime and would like to have complete control over the brewing procedure.
The Bambino Plus
This little beauty from Breville is a top choice for many espresso aficionados. It has the right features to give you a perfect shot every time, and it's not overly complicated to use. It's a great choice for those looking to improve their coffee-making skills, but aren't yet ready to invest in a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion process, along with the high-pressure extraction guarantees that the beans will be evenly pressed to give an even taste. You can also set different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots by pressing of a single button. This is very helpful to achieve consistently good results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This means you won't need to wait until it reaches the right temperature in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in just three seconds which is much quicker than the majority of other machines.
Even the novice can pull off a perfect shot with this espresso machine, thanks to the automatic steam wand. It can produce a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, as well as presets for cappuccinos, lattes, and more. It won't create the super-smooth microfoam that you get from a hands-on, professional-grade machine that requires modding and lots of practice but it will make a deliciously smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has a water reservoir that is removable that makes it simple to clean and refill. It's also light and compact, which makes it fit nicely into tight spaces. It also has an easy-to-clean glass lid to keep clean, which is an important aspect for those with a limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than the other models, is worth the extra price. It is easy to use and comes with many great features. One of it is the auto-steam wand which will make milk froth for you. This is the ideal option for anyone looking to make a delicious cup at home. See if you're pre-approved - earn up to 10% back in rewards1 plus free shipping8 today with the brand new Williams Sonoma credit card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a prosumer espresso machine that isn't too much then the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It comes with many of the key features you would expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, like a digital PID which regulates the temperature to within a few degrees and a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit for fast steaming and brewing at the same time. It has many energy-saving features, including an eco mode, which automatically turns the machine off after a certain period of inactivity.
As an additional bonus As an added bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a high-quality professional-grade 58mm portafilter. This is a standard size used by most commercial espresso machines, and it assists to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This results in a more delicious and more evenly distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to fine-tune the pressure exerted on your grounds during extraction, allowing you to experiment with various methods and flavors. This is a fantastic option for coffee lovers since many espresso machines are shipped with pressures that are too high.
The Diletta Mio has a simple user interface that is easy for beginners to use. However, it also has certain advanced features that will appeal to baristas with more experience in the home. The PID display can be used as a shot timer, allowing you to monitor your shots without difficulty and ensure they're brewed perfectly. There are lights on the steam and brew buttons to inform you that you have created enough pressure and temperature for steaming and brewing.
The Diletta Mio is made in Italy this speaks to its quality and craftsmanship. This machine will provide you with years of solid performance and reliability particularly if it's well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso the Spanish manufacturer, is known for its exceptional home espresso machines. They also make a few commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar. A quick YouTube search will show dozens of reviewers swooning over it. However, I think it's overshadowed by models with more impressive features and higher prices.
This machine is equipped with two thermoblocks that ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk foaming. Its PID allows you to alter the temperature of the brewing in one-degree increments, a degree of precision that is usually reserved for higher-end machines. It also features a display showing the brew temperature at the brew unit rather than at the boiler or thermoblock. This is a refreshing departure from the majority of espresso machines at home that rely on a simple digital display with blue digits.
It also comes with a large and actively heated cup warmer, which is another excellent feature. The steam wand is simple to use and has an auto-purge feature that doesn't burn after each use. It's also programmed best budget espresso machine for two pre-infusions which means you can program the amount you want to soak the portafilter before proceeding with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite some minor problems. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up, precise temperatures and fast heating ensure that your coffee will be made at the ideal temperature. In addition, the programable infusion will help you improve your shot-making technique.
The plastic tamper and the surprising low power of steam are two things that I would criticize, but this is a great choice for espresso lovers at home. If you're willing to spend more it, the Ascaso is definitely worth it for its extra features and a premium appearance.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine for those who want the most value for their money. The Silvia comes with an individual boiler to make and steaming coffee. It is simple to use, and comes in a variety colors to match the aesthetic of your home.
The Silvia comes with stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are easy to remove and clean. This machine has a removable water reservoir that can be filled when the machine is in operation and also has an automatic shutoff function as well as a temperature dial that keeps your drinks at the perfect temperature to provide the best coffee experience.
The steam wand is commercial grade and will allow you to create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your guests. The control knobs for brewing on the Silvia are simple to comprehend and allow you to choose your desired extraction and the brewing time to create a customized drink. The Silvia has proven to be reliable, durable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned company which is proud of their craftsmanship and quality. They are in constant contact with their community, and take feedback. They create products that are refined by the tiny little details.
This machine is a great option for those who are just beginning their journey in making espresso at home, but it can also be a solid upgrade to an old moka maker under the supervision of a barista who is skilled. The machine doesn't have a heat-exchanger, which means you will need to wait for a few minutes between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth mentioning that the company puts each and every Silvia through a stringent series of tests, so that you can be sure that the machine is safe to operate. If you do find that there is any issue with your Silvia it comes with a one-year guarantee.