Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows as do the options for consumers. Prosumer models of a variety of high-end commercial machines now available for customers.
These heavier systems require more precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, but do most of the work.
This model is made for those who take espresso as a hobby and would like to have complete control over the process of brewing.
The Bambino Plus
This small beauty is made by Breville is a top-pick for a lot of espresso lovers. It's easy to use and comes with all the features you need to make a perfect espresso shot every time. It's a great choice for those who want to improve their coffee-making skills but aren't quite ready to splurge on 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, resulting in an even flavor. You can also set different output volumes for two shots and one-shots with the touch of a button. This is very helpful to achieve consistently good results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system, which means you won't need to wait until it reaches the ideal temperature in the morning. It's ready to use in just three seconds which is significantly quicker than other models.
smeg espresso machine can make it simple for even the most novice users to pull a amazing shot. It comes with presets for cappuccinos, latte and other milk textures and temperatures. It's not going to create the super-smooth, microfoam you get with a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires modifying and lots of practice. But it can produce a smooth, creamy latté or a cappuccino.
This model comes with an adjustable water reservoir which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also extremely light and compact, which helps it fit nicely into tight spaces. It also has an easy-to-clean glass lid to clean, which is another important aspect for those with limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than the other models, is worth the extra cost. It's user-friendly and comes with amazing features, such as a convenient auto-steam wand that will make your milk frothy for you. It's the ideal choice for anyone who wants the perfect coffee at home. Find out if you're pre-approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 along with free shipping8 with a Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're in the market for a prosumer espresso machine that doesn't cost too much then the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It includes numerous of the essential features you'd expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, such as 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 is equipped with many energy-saving options, including an eco mode that automatically turns the machine off after a set period of inactivity.
Additionally, the Diletta Mio comes with a premium, professional-grade portafilter measuring 58mm. This is a standard size for most commercial espresso machines, and it assists to ensure that all of your grounds are evenly distributed during extraction. This will result in a more uniform and better-tasting espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you the ability to adjust the pressure exerted on the coffee grounds during extraction. You can play around with different methods and flavors. This is a fantastic 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 is easy to use for beginners thanks to its easy-to-use interface. However, it also includes several advanced features that draw 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 they are made to perfection. The brew and Steam buttons have lights that indicate when you've reached the correct 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 can provide years of reliable service and solid performance particularly if it is well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer, is well-known for its outstanding espresso machines for homes. They also produce commercial models. A quick YouTube search will reveal that a lot of reviewers are drooling over the Steel Duo PID. But, I think it is a bit overshadowed by models with more impressive features and a higher price tag.
This machine comes with two thermoblocks that ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk foaming. Its PID lets you adjust the brewing temperature in one-degree increments, a degree of precision that is usually reserved for more expensive machines. It also has a display showing the brew temperature at the brew unit rather than at the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing change from the standard digital display on most espresso machines in the home that use blue digits.
It also comes with a large, actively heated cup warmer, which is a excellent feature. The steam wand features an easy-to-use, non-burn feature that automatically cleanses after every use. It can also be programmed for two pre-infusions that allows you to program the desired amount of time to let the portafilter soak before proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso has a few minor issues, it's an excellent home espresso machine. Its quick heating time and precise temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always made at the right temperature. In addition, the pre-infusion that can be programmed allows you to improve your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper that comes with it and the surprisingly low power of steam are two points I would not recommend but it's an excellent choice for coffee lovers at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra cost for its premium look and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
Rancilio Silvia is the perfect espresso machine for those looking for the most value for their money. The Silvia features one boiler that can be used to brew and steamed coffee. It is easy to use, and comes in a variety colors to complement the style of your home.
Silvia Silvia has a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to take off, clean and maintain. The Silvia has an ejector which can be filled up while the machine is in use. It also has an automatic shutoff function and an adjustable temperature dial to keep your drinks at the right temperature.
Finally, the steam wand that comes with this machine is commercial grade and lets you create silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that are sure to delight your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls are simple to use and allow you to personalize your drink by selecting the desired extraction time and the temperature at which you want to brew. The Silvia is long-lasting, durable and reliable, which is why it has endured the test of time since its first release in 1997.
Rancilio is an Italian family-owned business that takes pride in its quality and craftsmanship. They stay in close contact with their community of espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and designing products that get the smallest important details right.
This machine is an excellent choice for people who are just starting their journey into making espresso at home, but it could also be a great upgrade from an old moka pot under the guidance of a barista who is skilled. The biggest downside to this machine is that it doesn't have an exchanger for heat, which means you'll need to wait for a minute or two between making milk-based beverages.
It's also worth noting that the company puts each and every Silvia through a stringent series of tests, so you can be certain that your equipment is safe to operate. If you find there is a problem with your Silvia manufacturer, they offer a one-year warranty.