Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, so do the choices for consumers. Many top-rated, high-end commercial machines are now available to consumers as models for prosumers.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, yet they can do the bulk of the work.
This model is made for those who take espresso as a pastime and want to have full control over the process of brewing.
The Bambino Plus
This tiny beauty is made by Breville is a top-pick for a lot of espresso lovers. It's user-friendly and comes with all the features you require to get a great espresso shot every time. It's perfect for those who want to improve their skills in coffee making but don't want to spend a lot of money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion system and increased high-pressure extraction ensure that the beans are evenly pressed to ensure the best flavor. You can also set different output volumes for two shots and one-shots by pressing of a single button. This can be very beneficial to ensure consistent results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating technology which allows it to warm up quickly in the morning. It's ready to use in just three second which is a lot more efficient than other machines.
Even the most novice user will have no trouble pulling an excellent shot with this espresso machine due to the automatic steam wand. It can create 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 get from a hands-on, professional-grade machine, which requires mods and a lot of practice, but it will still create a smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has an adjustable water reservoir that makes it simple to clean and refill. It's also light and compact, which helps it fit easily into small spaces. It also has a glass lid that's easy to clean, which is an important aspect for those with limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is definitely worth the extra cost. It's easy to use, and comes with many wonderful features. One of it is the auto-steam wand, which will froth milk automatically. inquiry is the ideal choice for anyone looking to make a great cup at home. Check if you're pre-approved. earn up to 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 with a 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 has many features that you'd expect to find in the higher-end espresso machines such as a digital PID which controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also has a solid steam wand that is connected to its heating system to allow for near-simultaneous steaming and making. It is equipped with many energy-saving features, including an eco mode, which automatically shuts off the machine after a set time of inactivity.
In addition, the Diletta Mio comes with a premium, professional-grade portafilter that measures 58mm. This is a standard size used by most commercial espresso machines, and it helps to ensure that all your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This means you get a better tasting and evenly-distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to alter the pressure applied on the grounds of your coffee during extraction. You can test different flavors and techniques. This is a great feature for coffee lovers especially since a lot of 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 makes it easy for new users to use. It also has some advanced features that will appeal to experienced home baristas. For instance the PID display doubles as a shot timer to let you easily monitor your shots and ensure that they are brewed perfectly. There are lights next to the brew and steam buttons to inform you when you have achieved enough pressure and temperature for brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its quality and workmanship. This machine can provide years of solid performance and reliability particularly if it's well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer that is known for its production of an impressive espresso machine for home use and even a couple of commercial models. A quick YouTube search will reveal that a lot of reviewers are drooling over the Steel Duo PID. I think it's overshadowed, however by other models that offer more features and are priced higher.
This machine comes with two thermoblocks that ensure stable espresso extractions and accurate milk foaming. The PID lets you adjust the brewing temperature in one degree increments, a level of precision usually reserved for more expensive machines. It also features a display showing the brew temperature at the brew unit, rather than the thermoblock or boiler. This is a welcome change from most espresso machines in the home that use a simple digital display with blue numerals.
Another feature that is great is the large, active heated cup warmer. The steam wand is simple to use and has an auto-purge feature that doesn't burn after every use. It's also programmable to allow two pre-infusion sets which means you can program in the time you'd like to soak the portafilter prior to proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso does have some minor issues, overall it's an excellent home espresso machine. The Ascaso's fast heat-up time and precise temperature settings as well as its speedy heating ensure that your coffee will always be made at the ideal temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion allows you to perfect your shot-making skills.
I would knock it down by a few points due to the plastic tamper that comes with it and its surprising low steam power, but overall this is a fantastic option for those who love home espresso. The Ascaso is worth the extra cost for its stylish design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine for those seeking the most value for their money. It has a single boiler which is heated for brewing and steaming, the Silvia is simple to use and can be purchased in a variety of colors to match the style of your home.
The Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to remove, clean and maintain. The Silvia has a removable water reservoir that can be filled up when the machine is in operation as well as an automatic shutoff function and an adjustable temperature dial that ensures your drinks are at the perfect temperature to provide the best coffee experience.
The steam wand comes in commercial grade and will allow you to make silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls are simple to operate and allow you to customize your drink by choosing the desired extraction time and brew temperature. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting, and robust, which is the reason it has stood the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned business which is proud of their quality and craftsmanship. They stay in close contact with their community of espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and developing products that get the small details right.
This machine is ideal for those just beginning to make espresso at home. It can also be a replacement for a moka pot if you're a barista. The biggest downside to this machine is that it does not have a heat exchanger, so you'll need to wait a couple of minutes before making milk-based drinks.
The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests so that you can be certain that the machine will work safely. If you do find that there is any issue with your Silvia, the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty.