Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models

As the market for espresso expands, so do consumer options. Many top-rated commercial machines that are of the highest quality are now available to consumers as prosumer models.

These heftier systems demand greater precision from the user in grinding and tamping, as well as extraction time, but do much of the work.

This model is designed for those who views espresso as a serious hobby and wants full control over the brewing process.

The Bambino Plus

Breville's small beauty is a popular choice among espresso enthusiasts. It has the right features to make a fantastic shot every time and isn't overly complicated in its operation either. It's a great choice for those who want to improve their coffee-making skills but aren't quite ready to invest in a top-of-the-line commercial machine.

Its low-pressure pre-infusion as well as stepped up high-pressure extraction ensure that the beans are evenly pressed for an even flavor. You can also set different output volumes for two-shots and one-shots by pressing of a button. This is very helpful to achieve consistently good results.

The Bambino Plus is equipped with Breville's ThermoJet heating technology which allows it to heat up quickly in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in only three seconds which is significantly quicker than the majority of other machines.

Even the most novice of users can pull off a perfect shot using this espresso machine due to the automatic steam wand. It is able to create a broad range of milk temperatures and textures, along with presets for cappuccinos and lattes and much more. It's not going to create the super-smooth, microfoam you get with a hands-on professional-grade machine, which requires modding and a lot of practice. But it can make a smooth, creamy latté or a cappuccino.

This model comes with a removable water reservoir which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also very lightweight and compact, which makes it to fit well into tight spaces. It also has a glass lid that is easy to clean, which is an important feature for those who have a small counter space.

The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is well worth the extra cost. It's easy to use, and has numerous great features. One of them is the auto-steam wand that will froth milk for you. It's the ideal choice for anyone who wants an excellent cup of coffee at home. Find out if your pre-approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 and free shipping8 when you purchase a Williams Sonoma Credit Card.

The Diletta Mio

The Diletta Mio is a great alternative if you're in the market for a low-cost espresso maker for the home. It features many of the features you'd expect to find on a higher-priced espresso machine such as the digital PID that controls the temperature within a couple of degrees. It also comes with a solid steam wand connected to its own heating system for simultaneous steaming and making. It has many energy-saving features, including an eco mode, which automatically turns the machine off after a set period of inactivity.

The Diletta Mio also comes with an industry-standard portafilter that measures 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 during extraction. This, in turn, results in a more even and better-tasting espresso.

The Diletta Mio also has an adjustable OPV. This allows you to adjust the pressure exerted on the grounds of your coffee during extraction. You can play around with different methods and flavors. This is a great option for those who love coffee as a lot of espresso machines come with pressures that are too high.

The Diletta Mio is easy to use for novices due to its easy-to-use interface. However, it also has several advanced features that appeal to more experienced home baristas. For example the PID display doubles as a shot timer to allow you to easily monitor your shots and ensure they are brewed to perfection. There are also lights in the area next to the steam and brew buttons to notify you when you have achieved enough pressure and temperature to allow brewing and steaming.

The Diletta Mio was made in Italy. This is a testimony to its quality and workmanship. This is a machine that will give you years of solid performance and reliable service, particularly when you maintain it properly.

The Ascaso Duo

Ascaso the Spanish manufacturer, is known for its top-quality home espresso machines. They also produce commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar. A quick YouTube search will show dozens of reviewers swooning over it. I do think that it's overshadowed, however by other devices that have more impressive features and a higher cost.

This machine comes with two thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions and precise milk frothing. The PID on this machine allows you to adjust the temperature of the brewing process in one degree increments. This degree of precision is normally reserved for machines that cost a lot of money. 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 refreshing departure from the majority of espresso machines at home that rely on a simple digital display that has blue numbers.

It also comes with a large and actively heated cup warmer, which is another excellent feature. The steam wand is simple to use and has an auto-purge feature that doesn't burn after every use. It's also programmable for two sets of pre-infusion which means you can program in the amount you want to let the portafilter soak before beginning the extraction.

While the Ascaso has a few minor issues, overall it's a great home espresso machine. Its quick heating time and precise temperature settings ensure that your coffee is always made at the optimal temperature. In addition, the pre-infusion that can be programmed allows you to improve your shot-making abilities.

I would give it a few points for the included plastic tamper and its surprising low steam power, but overall this is a fantastic option for those who love home espresso. If you're willing some more, the Ascaso is definitely worth it for its extra features and its premium design.

The Rancilio Silvia

The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine for those who want the best bang-for-your-buck. The Silvia features one boiler that can be used to brew and steamed coffee. It is simple to use and comes in a variety colors to complement the style of your home.

The Silvia also features a stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are easy to remove and clean. This machine comes with a removable water reservoir that can be filled when the machine is in operation as well as an automatic shutoff function as well as an adjustable temperature dial that keeps your drinks at the perfect temperature for the ideal coffee experience.

Lastly, the steam wand in this machine is commercial-grade and lets you create silky smooth lattes and cappuccinos that will surely impress your guests. The Silvia's brewing controls can be simple to use and allow you to personalize your drink by choosing the desired extraction time and brew temperature. The Silvia has been proven to be durable, reliable and long-lasting since its release in 1997.

Rancilio is a family-owned business that takes pride in their craftsmanship and quality. They stay always in touch with their community espresso coffee machine home and are open to feedback. They design products that are refined by the smallest of aspects.

This machine is an excellent option for those who are just starting their journey into making espresso at home, but it could also be a good upgrade over a moka pot under the guidance of a professional barista. The machine isn't equipped with a heat-exchanger, which means you'll have to wait for a few minutes between making milk-based drinks.

The company also puts each Silvia through rigorous tests to be sure that your machine will function safely. The manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty in the event of any issues.