The Best Home Espresso Machine
Superautomatic espresso machines are a fantastic alternative for those who don't have barista experience, but want to enjoy high-quality coffee at home. These machines have automatic features and are also digitally-controlled. They also rapidly heat up and don't occupy much counter space.
This model comes with a programmable volumetric dose as well as an adjustable preinfusion. It comes with steaming wand as well as a commercial-grade grouphead.
1. Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus, despite its cute name, is an actual machine. It's loaded with features that make it an ideal pick for anyone looking to step up from the standard Breville espressi machines or those who prefer an option that is more automated than manual.
It is equipped with a PID controller that does the temperature and pressure control, which means it's ready to brew the moment you push the button. It also makes use of the technology known as Thermo Jet that allows it to heat up in just 3 seconds, so you can make your espresso faster than most other espresso machines for home use (which require between 10 and 30 minutes to warm up).
The machine was designed with simplicity in mind, and so there's only one button that controls everything. You can choose one or two shots and also set the brewing time that you have to do manually with other espresso machines in this price range. The brushed stainless steel finish gives it a luxurious look, and its compact dimensions make it ideal for those who have limited space for countertops or a small kitchen.
The Bambino Plus also includes all the tools you need to start brewing, including an tamper made of metal measuring 54 millimeters and the dose trimmer tool. It's the only machine in this class that can do this, and shows that Breville is dedicated to making their products as foolproof as is possible. It also comes with built-in reminders for cleaning and descaling to ensure that it is running efficiently.
The Bambino Plus may be the best entry-level espresso machine for those who are new to the world of espresso. It's easy to use, heats up quickly, and then automatically sends milk to you. Its high price may be difficult for some people.
2. De'Longhi Stilosa
The De'Longhi Stilosa is an affordable and well-rounded manual espresso machine that's ideal for coffee novices and coffee enthusiasts alike. It's easy to use and looks great on the counter, and makes good cappuccinos, espresso, and lattes. There are some disadvantages which must be taken into consideration.
In our brewing metrics The Stilosa scored below average to average for its quality of brewing and control. This was primarily due to its small filter baskets and lack of temperature control, both of which make it difficult to alter the extraction process. However, we liked the fact that it doesn't take long for the machine to warm up and that it offers a nice amount of adjustability in the spout's spout's height.
The model also comes with an easy-to-fill reservoir that can hold up to 34 ounces. It also has a built in level indicator to let you know when to refill. It is removable, which is beneficial if you have to clean it or don't have access an indoor sink. This model also has a drip pan that is removable, which allows you to use taller cups underneath the spout.
In our steaming metrics, the Stilosa also fell short. This resulted from its lack of control of the temperature of the steam and the absence of pre-infusion features. Both of these are standard features in machines that cost much more. Despite these shortcomings we were pleased with the fact that it doesn't need any maintenance and is covered by a one-year guarantee. For its price and performance, the De'Longhi Stilosa makes a great addition to any coffee bar. It's easier to use than other models we've tested and will save money on cafe drinks.
3. Breville Barista Express Impress
The Breville Barista Express Impress (that's quite a mouthful I bet!) is a machine designed specifically for espresso-curious beginners. This single boiler, pump-driven machine hopes to make it easier for anyone to get a decent shot of espresso without sacrificing flavor or consistency.
Its easy-to-use controls allow you to alter the settings for the grinder, tamper, and brew groups. You can also choose between single or double shots and select the temperature you prefer. The thermocoil heater built-in ensures that your espresso is ready to use in 30 seconds. This is much faster than the 30-minute wait most single boiler machines require to be at temperature.
Another key feature is the "impressive" dosing and tamping system that works with the tamper in order to dial in the right dose of ground coffee per shot. This system makes use of an integrated sensor to measure the depth of the basket and adjusts the amount of ground coffee that is dispensed. If you're not sure that you can control the grind size and water temperature manually The machine comes with presets that can help.
The Barista Express Impress also comes with the well-known single hole steam wand, which can produce some pretty stunning latte art. This is the same wand that you can find in Breville's advanced, top-of-the-line Barista Express models, and it's an absolute delight.
I'm not one who advocates for coffee shortcuts, fully automatic machines or even pods however the Impress does what it sets out to do without becoming daunting or removing the pleasure of making an excellent espresso. I'm happy with that and I'm giving it a thumbs-up!
4. Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great option for home baristas who value quality, design and convenience. Its sleek design, professional-grade components and consistently high-quality performance make it an ideal conversation piece in your coffee corner. Beginners can also benefit from this machine as it allows them to learn about steaming and espresso without worrying about programming or complexities.
This machine's PID-controlled brew heater is one of its most impressive features. It ensures rapid warming-up times and stable temperatures of water. This is essential, especially for espresso, because even small changes in the temperature of water can affect the taste and quality.
The Diletta's steaming thermoblock is another feature that stands out. It allows you to steam milk and brew espresso at the same time. This is a huge time-saver and helps to ensure that your milk has the right texture for your drinks. It also saves energy by only consuming power when it's required.
This machine also features a pressure gauge at the head of the group, which is a nice feature that lets you check your extraction pressure in real-time. You can adjust the OPV to fine-tune the extraction, which gives you an option of personalization that's normally reserved for more expensive machines.
Other important features of the Diletta include its easy-to-clean side-accessible water tank, as well as its energy-saving mode, which is adjustable in increments of 10 minutes that can last up to two hours. Its insulated wrap reduces heat loss, and its dual temperature control system reduces static electricity. This means less waste and lower costs.
Some users have complained about the lengthy repair time and the poor quality of this machine. Diletta has been criticized for its poor customer support and difficulty in resolving warranty issues.
5. Jura E8
This premium super-automatic machine offers a wide variety of specialty drinks that can be made with one button. It also makes macchiato, cappuccino, ristretto and flat whites as well as tea, hot chocolate, and plain coffee. This machine is distinguished by its cutting-edge brewing technologies and stylish color display.
The E8 makes use of the Aroma G3 grinder to grind beans quickly and accurately. It comes with eight grind settings which may seem like a lot if compared to other super automatics that only have three or four. The higher settings allow you to manage the size and consistency, which is essential to a perfect cup.
The Jura E8 is equipped with powerful burr grinders and an intelligent pre-infusion process. These two components are the reason for an espresso that is consistently top-quality. The PEP process pushes water through ground coffee in short bursts which allows the coffee's flavors to be fully extracted. The resulting cup is richer and fuller as well as more flavorful than typical instant coffee from a Keurig.
The Jura E8 can make a variety of drinks and it does it exceptionally well. It makes excellent, strong espresso as well as a smooth and silky cappuccino. The only drawback is that it can't produce an espresso. This requires a steam high pressure boiler to make the thick, fluffy the foam.
This machine isn't as difficult to clean as other super-automatics. It will descale automatically and self-clean after every use. It is easy to program it to do a more thorough cleaning every two or three times a year. It will also remind you to change the filter every 80 drinks.