10 Fundamentals To Know Best Coffee Espresso Machine You Didn't Learn In The Classroom
10 Fundamentals To Know Best Coffee Espresso Machine You Didn't Learn In The Classroom
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Best Coffee Espresso Machine - Prosumer Models
As the espresso market grows and so do the choices for consumers. Many top-rated, high-end commercial machines are now available to customers as models for prosumers.
These heavier systems require greater precision in the user's grinding, tamping and extraction times, but do most of the work.
This model is designed for those who considers espresso to be an important pastime and wants full control over the brewing process.
The Bambino Plus
Breville's little beauty is a cult favorite among coffee lovers. It's easy to use and comes with all the features you need to ensure a top espresso shot every time. It's perfect for those looking to improve their coffee-making abilities and don't want spend a lot of money on a premium commercial machine.
The low-pressure pre-infusion, when combined with the high pressure extraction ensures that the ground beans are evenly pressed, resulting in a balanced taste. You can also program distinct output volumes for two shots and one at the touch of the button, which is very helpful 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 get to the right temperature in the morning. It will be hot and ready to go in just three seconds which is much faster than other models.
The steam wand's automatic feature can make it simple for even the most novice users to make a amazing shot. It comes with presets for cappuccinos, latte, as well as other milk-based textures and temperatures. It's not going to create the super-smooth microfoam you get from a hands-on, professional-grade machine that requires modding and plenty of practice but it will make a deliciously smooth and creamy cappuccino or latte.
This model comes with a removable water reservoir which makes it easy to clean and refill. It's also light and compact which makes it easy to fit into small spaces. It also has a glass top that is easy to clean, another important aspect for those who have limited counter space.
The Bambino Plus, while a little more expensive than other models, is definitely worth the extra cost. It's simple to use and offers excellent features, including a convenient auto-steam wand that can create froth for your milk. This is the perfect choice for anyone looking to make a great cup at home. Find out if your approved and earn up to 10% in rewards1 plus free shipping8 with the Williams Sonoma Credit Card.
The Diletta Mio
If you're looking for a prosumer espresso machine that isn't too much and isn't too expensive, the Diletta Mio is an excellent alternative. It has many features that you'd expect to find in the higher-end espresso machines, including the digital PID that controls the temperature within a couple of degrees. It also comes with an insulated steam wand, which is connected to its own heating system for simultaneous steaming and making. It also comes with a variety of energy efficiency features including an eco mode that automatically sets the machine in standby mode after a specified period of inactivity, and an insulated boiler and short water path that helps reduce heat loss.
In addition as an additional bonus, the Diletta Mio comes with a professional-grade, high-quality portafilter measuring 58mm. This is the standard size used by commercial espresso machines and ensures that your espresso beans are evenly distributed during extraction. This, in turn, results in a more consistent and a better tasting espresso.
Another thing that sets the Diletta Mio apart from its competitors is its adjustable OPV valve. This gives you the ability to adjust the pressure exerted on your coffee grounds during extraction. You can play around with different flavors and techniques. This is a great feature for coffee enthusiasts especially since a lot of 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 thanks to its simple interface. However, it also has some advanced features that will appeal to more experienced home baristas. The PID display can be used as a shot-timer, allowing you to monitor your shots without difficulty and ensure that they are brewed perfectly. There are also lights on the steam and brew buttons to let you know when you have built up enough pressure and temperature to allow the brewing and steaming.
The Diletta Mio is made in Italy, a fact that speaks to its quality and craftsmanship. This machine will provide you with years of reliable service and solid performance particularly if it's well maintained.
The Ascaso Duo
Ascaso is a Spanish manufacturer, is known for its exceptional espresso machines for homes. They also make a few commercial models. Their Steel Duo PID doesn't fly under the radar; a quick YouTube search will show dozens of reviewers drooling over it. However, I think it is a bit overshadowed by machines with more impressive feature-sets and a higher price tag.
The machine is equipped with two thermoblocks to ensure steady espresso extractions as well as accurate milk frothing. Its PID allows you to adjust the brewing temperature in one degree increments, a degree of precision that is usually reserved for more expensive machines. It also has a display that shows the temperature of the brew at the brew unit rather than at the thermoblock or boiler. This is a refreshing change from the majority of espresso machines at home that use a simple digital display that has blue numerals.
It also comes with a large and actively heated cup warmer, which is another fantastic feature. Its steam wand is easy to use and comes with a non-burn feature that automatically purges after each use. It's also programmed to allow two pre-infusion sets that allows you to program in the time you'd like to soak the portafilter prior to proceeding with the extraction.
While espresso coffee machines the Ascaso does have a few minor issues, overall it's an excellent espresso machine. Its quick heating time and precise temperatures ensure your coffee is always made at the right temperature. Plus, the programmable infusion will help you improve your shot-making technique.
The plastic tamper that comes with it and the low-power of steam are two points that I'd like to point out however, this is an excellent choice for espresso lovers at home. The Ascaso is worth the extra cost for its stylish design and features.
The Rancilio Silvia
Rancilio Silvia is the perfect espresso machine for those who want the most value for their money. Featuring a single boiler that is heated for brewing and steaming, the Silvia is simple to use and comes in different colors to complement the style of your home.
The Silvia comes with stainless steel drip pan and cup tray that are simple to clean and remove. The Silvia comes with an ejector which can be filled up while the machine is being used. It also features an automatic shutoff feature as well as a temperature dial that will ensure that your drinks are at the right temperature.
The steam wand is commercial quality and will allow you to create silky smooth cappuccinos and lattes that will impress your guests. The control knobs for brewing on the Silvia are simple to understand and let you choose the desired extraction and the time of brewing for a custom drink. The Silvia has been proven to be reliable, durable and long-lasting since its 1997 release.
Rancilio is a family-owned business that takes pride in their quality and craftsmanship. They are constantly in contact with their community and listen to feedback. They design products that are perfected by the tiny details.
This machine is an excellent option for those just beginning their journey to making espresso at home. However, it can also be a great upgrade to an old moka maker under the supervision of a skilled barista. The machine isn't equipped with a heat exchanger, which means you will need to wait for a few minutes between making milk-based drinks.
It is also important to note that the company puts each and every Silvia through a stringent series of tests, so that you can be sure that the machine is safe to use. If you find there's any issue with your Silvia it comes with a one-year guarantee.