Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows and so do the choices for consumers. A variety of top-rated commercial machines that are of the highest quality are now accessible to customers as prosumer models.
These heftier systems demand more precision from the user in grinding and tamping, as well as extraction time, but they do the majority of the work for you.
This model is ideal for those who sees espresso as a serious hobby and wants complete control over the espresso process.
The Bambino Plus
This little beauty is made by Breville is a top-pick for many coffee lovers. It's got all the features to make a fantastic shot every time, and it's not overly complicated to operate. It's perfect for those who are looking to improve their skills in coffee making, but don't want to spend an enormous amount of money on a high-end commercial machine.
Its low pressure pre-infusion system and stepped up high-pressure extraction ensure that the ground beans are evenly pressed to ensure the best flavor. You can also program different output volumes for one and two-shots by pressing a button, which is extremely beneficial for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system, which means you don't need to wait for it to reach the right temperature in the morning. It's ready to use in just three seconds which is significantly quicker than other models.
The automatic steam wand makes it easy for even the most novice users to pull a amazing shot. It is able to create a broad range of milk temperatures and textures, along with presets for cappuccinos, lattes, and much more. It won't produce the super-smooth microfoam you can get from a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires modifying and a lot of practice. But it can produce an incredibly smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model has an adjustable water reservoir which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also light and compact making it easy to fit in small spaces. It also has a glass lid that is easy to clear, which is an important aspect for those with limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a bit more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra cost. It's easy to use and offers great features, including an automatic steam tool that can make your milk frothy for you. It's the perfect option for anyone who would like the perfect cup of espresso at home. Find out if you're approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 along with free shipping8 when you purchase the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a prosumer espresso machine that doesn't cost too much, the Diletta Mio is an excellent option. It comes with many features you'd expect to find in the higher-end espresso machines, including a digital PID which controls the temperature within a couple of degrees. It also has an insulated steam wand, which is connected to its own heating system that allows for near-simultaneous steaming and brewing. It comes with a variety of energy-saving options, including an eco mode that automatically shuts off the machine after a specific period of inactivity.
Additionally, as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a professional-grade, high-quality portafilter measuring 58mm. This is the standard size that is used by the majority of commercial espresso machines, and it assists to ensure that all of your grounds are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This means you get a better tasting and more evenly-distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to fine-tune the pressure that is exerted on your coffee during extraction, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and techniques. This is a fantastic feature for coffee lovers especially since a lot of espresso machines are shipped out of the factory with the pressure set too high (the Rancilio Silvia springs to mind).
The Diletta Mio has a simple user interface that is simple for new users to use. 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 to enable you to easily track your shots and ensure they are made to perfection. The brew and steam buttons are lit up to inform you when you've reached the proper temperature and pressure to begin making steam or brewing.
In addition, the Diletta Mio is made in Italy, a fact that confirms its quality and workmanship. This is an appliance that will provide you with years of solid performance and reliable service, especially when you maintain it properly.
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 few commercial models. A quick YouTube search will show that a lot of reviewers are drooling over the Steel Duo PID. I think it's overshadowed, however by other models that have more impressive features and cost more.
Coffeee is equipped with two thermoblocks that ensure stable espresso extractions and accurate milk foaming. Its PID allows you to adjust the brewing temperature in one-degree increments, a degree of precision normally reserved for more expensive machines. It also has a display that displays the temperature of the brew at the brew unit rather than the thermoblock or boiler. This is a welcome departure from the simple digital display that is common to espresso machines at home that use blue numbers.
Another feature that is great is the large, active cup warmer. The steam wand features an easy-to-use feature that does not burn and automatically purge after each use. It's also programmable for two sets of pre-infusion that allows you to program in the amount you want to let the portafilter soak before beginning 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. Plus, the programmable pre-infusion allows you to improve your shot-making skills.
The plastic tamper that comes with it and the surprising low power of steam are two points that I'd like to point out but it's an excellent choice for coffee lovers at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra money for its elegant design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
If you're looking for an old-fashioned espresso machine that gives you the most bang for your money Look at the Rancilio Silvia. The Silvia features an individual boiler to make and steaming coffee. It is simple to use, and comes in a variety of colors to match the aesthetic of your home.
The Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel that are easy to take off, clean and maintain. The Silvia has a removable reservoir that can be filled while the machine is in use. It also features an automatic shutoff feature as well as a temperature dial that will keep your drinks at just the ideal temperature.
The steam wand is commercial quality and allows you to create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will impress your friends. The brewing control knobs on the Silvia are simple to comprehend and let you choose the desired extraction and the time of brewing 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 company that is proud of its craftsmanship and quality. They are constantly in contact with their community, and are open to feedback. They design products that are perfected through the smallest of aspects.
This machine is ideal for those just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It can also be a great upgrade from a moka pot if you're a barista. The biggest drawback of this machine is that it doesn't have an exchanger, so you'll have to wait for a few minutes before making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth noting that the company puts each and every Silvia through a rigorous series of tests, so that you can be confident that the machine is safe to operate. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty if you find an issue.