The Best Coffee Espresso Machine Awards: The Top, Worst, Or Strangest Things We've Ever Seen
Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the market for espresso expands, so do the choices for consumers. Prosumer models of several commercial machines of the highest quality are currently available to consumers.
These heavier systems require greater precision from the user for grinding and tamping, as well as extraction time, yet they do the majority of the work for you.
This model is designed for those who take espresso as a hobby and want to have full control over the process of brewing.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a cult favorite among coffee enthusiasts. It's easy to use and has all the features you require to ensure a top espresso shot every time. It's ideal for those 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.
The low-pressure pre-infusion process, along with the high-pressure extraction guarantees that the beans will be evenly pressed, resulting in an even taste. You can also set different output volumes for two shots and one-shots at the touch of a button. This can be very beneficial to ensure consistency in results.
The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating technology, which lets it rapidly heat up in the morning. It's ready to use in only three seconds, which is much more efficient than other machines.
Even the most novice of users will be able to pull off a perfect shot using this espresso machine thanks to the automatic steam wand. It comes with presets that can create cappuccinos, latte, and other milk-based textures and temperatures. It's not able to create the silky smooth microfoam that you get from a hands-on professional-grade machine that requires modifying and lots of practice but it will 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 light and compact, making it easy to fit into smaller spaces. It also has a glass lid that's 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 worth the extra price. It's simple to use and offers amazing features, such as an automatic steam wand that will froth your milk for you. This is the ideal option for anyone who wants to make a delicious cup at home. See if you're pre-approved - earn up to 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 today with the brand new Williams Sonoma credit card.
If you're looking for a prosumer espresso machine that won't cost too much then the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It has many of the features you'd expect to get in a higher-priced espresso machine, such as a digital PID that controls the temperature to within a few degrees and a solid steam wand that is connected to its own heating circuit for near-simultaneous brewing and steaming. It also has a range of energy-saving features, including an eco mode that automatically puts the machine into standby after a set timer, and an insulated boiler and short water path that helps reduce heat loss.
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 espresso beans are evenly distributed throughout extraction. This results in a better-tasting and evenly-distributed espresso.
The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This lets you fine-tune the pressure that is imposed on your coffee during extraction and allows you to experiment with various flavors and techniques. This is a fantastic 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 has a simple user interface that makes it easy for beginners to use. It also comes with advanced features which will be appealing to experienced baristas at home. 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. The brew and steam buttons have lights that let you know if you've reached the proper temperature and pressure to begin making steam or brewing.
The Diletta Mio is made in Italy, a fact that confirms its quality and craftsmanship. This is an appliance that will give you years of solid performance and reliable service, particularly if you keep it well-maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer known for producing an impressive espresso machine for home use and even a couple of commercial models. A quick YouTube search will reveal that many reviewers are drooling at the Steel Duo PID. However, I believe it's overshadowed by machines with more impressive feature-sets and higher prices.
This machine is equipped with dual thermoblocks for stable espresso extractions and accurate milk frothing. 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 features a display that displays the temperature of brewing at the brew unit rather than the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing departure from the traditional digital display that is common to espresso machines at home that use blue digits.
Another feature that is great is the large, active heated cup warmer. The steam wand is simple to use and comes with a non-burn function that auto-purges after every use. It's also programmable for two sets of pre-infusion, so you can program the desired amount of time to soak the portafilter prior to beginning the extraction.
While the Ascaso has a few minor issues, overall it's an excellent home espresso machine. The Ascaso's speedy heat-up and precise temperatures as well as quick heating ensure that your coffee will always be made at the perfect temperature. Additionally, the pre-infusion programable makes it easier to perfect your shot-making skills.
I would give it a few points for the plastic tamper that comes with it and its surprisingly low steam power, but overall this is a great option for those who love home espresso. If you're willing to pay more it, the Ascaso is definitely worth it for its additional features and a premium appearance.
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. It has a single boiler which can be heated up for brewing as well as steaming the Silvia is easy to use and comes in different colors to fit with the style of your home.
The Silvia also features stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are easy to remove and clean. The Silvia comes with an ejector which can be filled up while the machine is in use. It also has an automatic shutoff feature and a temperature dial that will keep your drinks at just the right temperature.
The steam wand in this machine is commercial-grade and lets you make silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that are sure to impress your friends. The Silvia's brewing controls can be simple to use and allow you to customize your drink by choosing the desired extraction time and the temperature at which you want to brew. The Silvia is durable, long-lasting, and reliable, which is why it has endured the test of time since its initial release in 1997.
Rancilio is a family-owned Italian company that is proud of its craftsmanship and quality. They stay constantly in contact with their community and are open to feedback. They create products that are perfected by the smallest of details.
This machine is ideal for those just beginning their journey to make espresso at home. It could also be a replacement for a moka pot if you're a barista. The machine isn't equipped with an exchanger for heat, so you will need to wait some time 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 confident that the machine is safe to use. If you do find that there's an issue with your Silvia manufacturer, they offer a one-year guarantee.