Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, as do the options for consumers. A variety of top-rated, high-end commercial machines are now available to consumers as prosumer models.
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 for someone who considers espresso to be a serious hobby and wants full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a favorite for espresso lovers. It's got all the features to deliver a great shot every time and isn't too complicated to use. It's ideal for those who want to improve their coffee-making skills but don't want to spend a lot of money on a top-of-the-line commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, when combined with the high pressure extraction ensures that the ground beans are evenly pressed to produce an even taste. You can also program distinct output quantities for two and one-shots at the touch of an button, which can be very helpful for consistent results.
The Bambino Plus uses Breville's lightning-fast ThermoJet heating system. This means you don't need to wait for it to reach the ideal temperature in the morning. It will be ready to use in only three seconds which is significantly quicker than other models.
The steam wand's automatic feature can make it simple for even the most novice users to pull a fantastic shot. It can produce a wide range of milk temperatures and textures, with presets for lattes, cappuccinos, and more. It's not able to create the silky smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modding and a lot of practice, but it will still produce a satisfyingly smooth and creamy latte or cappuccino.
This model comes with an open reservoir that makes it easy to refill and clean. It's also very lightweight and compact, which makes it fit easily in tight spaces. It also has an easy-to-clean glass lid to keep clean, which is another important aspect for those with a limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra cost. It is easy to use, and has many wonderful features. One of them is the auto-steam wand, which will froth milk automatically. It's the perfect option for anyone who would like the perfect cup of coffee at home. Find out if your approved and earn 10% in rewards1 along with free shipping8 when you purchase a Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great option if you're looking for a low-cost prosumer espresso maker. It has many features that you'd expect to see in the higher-end espresso machines such as an electronic PID that regulates 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 features, such as an eco mode, which will automatically shut off the machine after a specific period of inactivity.
The Diletta Mio also comes with an industry-standard portafilter that measures 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines, and it helps ensure that your beans are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This results in a more delicious and evenly-distributed espresso.
Another thing that distinguishes the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is the adjustable OPV valve. This lets you fine-tune the pressure that is imposed on your grounds during extraction and allows you to experiment with different flavor profiles and techniques. This is an excellent feature for coffee lovers 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 due to its simple interface. However, it also has certain advanced features that will appeal 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 make sure that they are made to perfection. There are also lights in the area next to the brew and steam buttons to let you know when you have built up enough pressure and temperature to allow the brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This speaks volumes about its quality and workmanship. This is an appliance that will give you years of reliable performance and reliable service, particularly 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 couple of commercial models. A quick YouTube search will reveal that dozens of reviewers are admiring the Steel Duo PID. I do believe that it is overshadowed, however by other devices that have more impressive features and are priced higher.
This machine comes with two thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk frothing. The PID on this machine allows you to adjust brewing temperatures in one-degree increments. This level of precision is usually reserved for high-end machines. It also has a display that shows the brew temperatures at the brew unit, not the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing change from most espresso machines in the home that rely on a simple digital display that has blue numerals.
Another great feature is the large, active heated cup warmer. The steam wand is simple to use and has a non-burn function that auto-purges after every use. It can also be programmed for two pre-infusions, so you can program in the time you'd like to soak the portafilter before continuing with the extraction.
The Ascaso is a fantastic home espresso machine, despite a few minor issues. The Ascaso's fast heat-up time, precise temperatures and fast heating ensure that your coffee will always be brewed at the right temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion allows you to perfect your shot-making technique.
The plastic tamper that comes with it and the surprising low power of steam are two points that I would criticize but it's an excellent choice for coffee lovers at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra cash for its premium look and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine for those who want the best bang-for-your-buck. With a single boiler that can be heated up for brewing as well as steaming the Silvia is simple to use and is available in various colors to match the style of your home.
Silvia Silvia comes with a drip pan and cup tray made of stainless steel. They are easy to take off, clean and maintain. The Silvia has an adjustable water reservoir that can be filled while the machine is running as well as an automatic shutoff function and the temperature dial, which ensures your drinks are at the right temperature for a perfect coffee experience.
The steam wand is commercial grade and will allow you to make silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your guests. The Silvia's brewing controls can be simple to use and let you customize your drink by selecting the desired extraction time and the temperature of brewing. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting 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 craftsmanship and quality. They are in constant contact with their espresso enthusiasts, taking note of feedback and creating products that get the little important details right.
This machine is perfect for those who are just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be a great upgrade from a moka pot if you're a barista. Coffeee does not have a heat exchanger, which means you'll have to wait for a few minutes between making milk-based drinks.
It's also worth mentioning that the company puts every Silvia through a rigorous series of tests, so that you can be confident that your equipment is safe to operate. If you do find that there's an issue with your Silvia it comes with one-year warranties.