Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows, so do consumer options. A variety of top-rated commercial machines that are of the highest quality are now available to customers as prosumer models.
These heavier systems require more precision in the user's grinding, tamping, and extraction times, yet they do the majority of the work.
This model is designed for those who sees espresso as an intense hobby and would like full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's small beauty is a cult favorite among espresso enthusiasts. It's simple to use and comes with all the features you need to ensure a top espresso shot every time. It's a great choice for those looking to improve their coffee-making abilities but aren't ready to spend the money on the top of the line commercial equipment.
The low-pressure pre-infusion process, along with the high-pressure extraction ensures that the beans are evenly pressed to produce an even taste. You can also program different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots at the touch of a button. This is very helpful to achieve consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This means you don't need to wait until it reaches the optimal temperature in the early morning. It will be hot and ready to go in just three seconds, which is a lot faster than other models.
Even the most novice user will have no trouble pulling an excellent shot using this espresso machine thanks to the automatic steam wand. It is able to create a broad range of milk temperatures and textures, as well as presets for cappuccinos and lattes and many more. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam you can get from a professional-grade hand-held machine, which requires modding and a lot of practice. But it will still make an incredibly smooth and creamy latte or a cappuccino.
This model has a removable water reservoir which makes it easy to clean and refill. It is also compact and lightweight which makes it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It has a glass top that is easy to clean, an important aspect for those with little counter space.
Although it's a bit more expensive than some other models but the Bambino Plus is worth the extra cost. It's easy to use and comes with great features, including an auto-steam wand that will create froth for your milk. It's the perfect choice for anyone who would like a great cup of coffee at home. Find out if you are pre-approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 when you purchase the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great alternative if you're looking to buy an inexpensive prosumer espresso maker. It has many features that you'd expect to see in a higher-priced espresso machine, including a digital PID which controls the temperature within a few degrees. It also has a solid steam wand connected to its own heating system that allows for simultaneous steaming and making. It comes with a variety of energy-saving features, including an eco mode that automatically shuts off the machine after a certain period of inactivity.
As an additional bonus as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a premium, professional-grade portafilter that measures 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and helps ensure that your espresso beans are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This is a result in a more even and a better tasting espresso.
Another characteristic that sets the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is its adjustable OPV valve. This lets you fine-tune the pressure exerted on your grounds during extraction which allows you to play with different methods and flavors. 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 easy for new users to use. However, it also includes certain advanced features that will be appealing to more experienced home baristas. For example the PID display doubles as a shot timer, which will enable you to easily track your shots and ensure that they are made to perfection. There are also lights in the area next to the steam and brew buttons to let you know when you have achieved enough pressure and temperature for steaming and brewing.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its quality and craftsmanship. This machine will provide you with years of reliable service and solid performance particularly if it is 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 show that a lot of reviewers are drooling over the Steel Duo PID. However, I believe it is a bit overshadowed by models with more impressive features and a higher price tag.
The machine is equipped with two thermoblocks to ensure stable espresso extractions, as well as accurate milk frothing. Its PID lets you alter the temperature of the brewing in one degree increments, a level of precision usually reserved for larger machines. It also displays the temperature of the brew in the brew unit, not the thermoblock or boiler. This is a welcome change from most espresso machines in the home that use a simple digital display that has blue digits.
It also comes with a large and actively heated cup warmer, which is another fantastic feature. Its steam pop over to this website wand has an easy-to-use feature that does not burn and automatically cleanses after each use. It is also programmable to allow two pre-infusions so you can set the time for which the portafilter must be soaked before proceeding with the extraction.
While the Ascaso has a few minor issues, it's an excellent home espresso machine. Its rapid heating process and precise temperatures ensure your coffee is always at the right temperature. In addition, the programable infusion helps you perfect your shot-making technique.
The plastic tamper that comes with it and the surprisingly low power of steam are two things that I'd like to point out however, this is a great choice for espresso lovers at home. If you're willing more then the Ascaso is definitely worth it because of its extra features and premium look.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine for those who want the most value for money. With a single boiler that is heated for brewing and steaming the Silvia is easy to use and comes in various colors to fit with the style of your home.
The Silvia comes with a stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are simple to remove and clean. This machine comes with a water reservoir that is removable and can be topped off when the machine is in operation and also has an automatic shutoff function as well as an adjustable temperature dial that keeps your drinks at the right temperature for the ideal coffee experience.
The steam wand in this machine is commercial-grade and lets you create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will delight your friends. The brewing control knobs on the Silvia are simple to understand and allow you to choose your desired extraction and the time of brewing for a custom drink. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting, and robust, which is the reason it has endured the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned business which is proud of their craftsmanship and quality. They are always in touch with their community and take feedback. They develop products that are perfected through the tiny little details.
This machine is a great choice for people who are just starting their journey into making espresso at home, but it can also be a solid upgrade from an old moka pot in the hands of a skilled barista. The machine isn't equipped with an exchanger for heat, so you'll need to wait for a few minutes between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth noting that the company puts every Silvia through a rigorous series of tests, so you can be certain that your equipment is safe to operate. If you do find that there's any issue with your Silvia manufacturer, they offer a one-year warranty.