The Best Home Espresso Machine
A superautomatic espresso machine is a great choice for someone who doesn't have barista expertise but would like to enjoy a quality cup of coffee at home. These machines are equipped with electronic features that are automatic and provide convenience. They heat up quickly and don't take up large counter space.
This model comes with a programmable volumetric dose as well an adjustable preinfusion. It comes with steaming wand as well as a commercial-grade grouphead.
1. Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus, despite its adorable name, is a serious machine. It's loaded with features that make it a good option for anyone looking to upgrade from the basic Breville espresso machines or need an alternative that is more automated than a manual.
It is equipped with an PID controller that performs the hard work of controlling temperature and pressure so that it's ready for brewing when you press the button. It utilizes a technology known as Thermo jet which allows it heat up in only 3 seconds. This means you'll be able to get your coffee faster than other home espresso machines.
The machine was created with simplicity in mind. There is only one button to control everything. You can select one or two shots and also set the brewing time as well, which is something you have to do manually with other espresso machines in this price range. The polished stainless steel finish gives it a premium appearance, and its small size makes it ideal for those who have limited space for countertops or a small kitchen.
The Bambino Plus also comes with all the accessories you need to get started brewing, such as an tamper made of metal measuring 54 millimeters and a dose trimmer tool. It's the only one in this category that can do this, and it shows that Breville is committed to making their products as reliable as is possible. It is equipped with reminders to descale and clean it so that it runs smoothly.
If you're new to espresso, the Bambino Plus is arguably the most suitable entry-level home espresso machine. It is easy to use, heats up quickly, and automatically sends milk to you. However, its price tag may put it out of reach for some people.
2. De'Longhi Stilosa
The De'Longhi Stilosa manual espresso machine is a well-rounded, budget-friendly option that's perfect for both novices and coffee lovers. It's easy to use, looks nice on the countertop, and produces excellent espresso, cappuccinos and lattes. However, it has a few drawbacks that should be considered.
In our metrics for brewing we found that the Stilosa scored below average to average for its quality of brewing and control. This was due to the small filter baskets, and the lack of temperature control. Both of these factors restrict your ability to adjust the extraction. We did however like the fact that it doesn't take long for this machine to preheat and also that it provides the ability to adjust on the spout height.
Coffeee comes with a handy water tank that holds up to 34 ounces. It includes a built-in level indicator to tell you when it's time to refill. It's removable, which is beneficial if you have to clean it or don't have access to the sink. This model also has a removable drip pan that allows you to use taller cups underneath the spout.
In our steaming metrics, the Stilosa also fell short. This was due to its limited control of the temperature of steam and the lack of pre-infusion options. Both of these are features that are common in machines that cost much more. Despite these issues, we did appreciate the fact that it doesn't require regular maintenance and is backed by a one-year guarantee. The De'Longhi Stilosa is a great option for a home coffee bar. It's a little simpler to use than other models we've tested and will save you money over paying for cafe drinks.
3. Breville Barista Express Impress
The Breville Express Impress Barista (that's quite a mouthful, don't you agree?) is a machine made specifically for espresso-curious beginners. This single boiler, pump-driven machine is designed to make it easier for anyone to pull an espresso shot that is decent without sacrificing flavor or consistency.
First of all, it takes the guesswork out of adjusting the grinder, tamper and brew group settings by using its simple-to-use controls. You can choose between double and single shots, as well as your preferred temperature. The built-in thermocoil heater guarantees that your espresso will be ready to drink in just 30 seconds. This is much faster than the typical wait of 30 minutes single boiler machines need to get to temperature.
Another important feature is the "impressive" dosing and tamping system that works with the tamper in order to adjust the proper amount of ground coffee per shot. This system makes use of an integrated sensor to gauge the depth of the basket, and adjusts amount of ground coffee dispersed. And if you're feeling less confident about your ability to manually control the size of the grind, water temperature and dosing, the machine has a variety of presets to aid you.
In addition, the Barista Express Impress includes the famous single-hole steam wand that can produce some pretty impressive artworks of latte as well. It's the same wand you will find in Breville's more sophisticated, premium Barista Express models, and it's an absolute delight.
I'm not a fan of coffee shortcuts, fully-automatic machines or pods. But the Impress does exactly what it claims to do without being too intimidating or taking the joy out of making an espresso. I'm pleased with it and I'm giving it a thumbs-up!
4. Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio makes a great choice for home baristas who focus on design, quality and user-friendliness. Its sleek design, professional grade components and constant performance make it a stunning addition to your coffee bar. Beginners will also benefit from this machine, as it allows them to learn about espresso and steaming without having to worry about programming or complexity.
This machine's PID-controlled brew heater is one of its most striking features. It provides quick warm-up time and stable temperature water. This is particularly important for espresso drinks, as even tiny fluctuations in water temperature can have a significant impact on the taste and quality of your drink.
The separate steaming thermoblock of the Diletta is another unique feature. It allows you to steam milk and make espresso at the simultaneously. This will save you a lot of time and ensure that your milk is the right consistency. This saves energy as it only requires energy only when it is required.
This machine has an indicator of pressure on the group head. It's a nice addition because it lets you monitor the pressure of your extraction in real time. You can adjust the OPV to fine-tune your extraction, giving you a level of customization that's typically reserved for much more expensive machines.
The Diletta also comes with a side-accessible, easy-to-clean water tank, and an optional energy-saving mode that can be set in increments of 10 minutes up to two hours. The insulated wrap helps reduce heat loss, while its dual-temperature control system helps reduce static electricity. This means less waste and lower costs.
However, some customers have complained about the durability of this machine and long repair times. In addition, some have had poor customer service from Diletta and have had difficulty in resolving warranty issues.
5. Jura E8
This top-quality super-automatic espresso machine has a dazzling variety of specially-programmed drinks that you can choose from the click of the 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 technology and stylish display in color.
The E8 uses the Aroma G3 grinder to grind beans with speed and precision. It also has 8 grind settings, which may seem like a lot compared to other super-automatics which only offer 3 or 4. But the reality is that the higher settings give you greater control over the size and consistency of your grind, and this is important to make a great cup of coffee.
The Jura E8 is equipped with a powerful burr grinder and an intelligent pre-infusion process. These two elements are the reason for an espresso cup that is consistently high quality. The PEP process pushes water through ground coffee in short bursts which allows the flavors to be fully extracted. The resulting cup is richer and fuller, as well as more flavorful than typical instant coffee made by Keurig.
The Jura E8 is designed to make a wide range of drinks and does so extremely well. It produces a strong, smooth cappuccino and an excellent espresso. The only drawback is that it's unable to make the proper latte that really needs the high pressure from steam boilers to make the thick foam.
This machine isn't as difficult to clean as super-automatics. It will automatically clean itself and descale after every use and it can be programmed to perform a deeper cleaning once or every two years. It will also remind to change the filter every 80 drinks.