The Best Home Espresso Machine
A superautomatic espresso machine is an ideal choice for someone who doesn't have barista experience but would like to enjoy a quality cup of coffee at home. They have features that are automatic and are also digitally-controlled. They heat quickly, and they don't require any counter space.
This model comes with a programmable volumetric dose as well an adjustable preinfusion. It comes with a steaming wand and a commercial-grade grouphead.
1. Breville Bambino Plus
Despite its cute name, the Bambino Plus is a serious espresso machine. It's packed with features that make it a great option for those who wants to upgrade from the standard Breville espresso machines or who want an option that is more automated than manual.
It is equipped with a PID controller to manage the temperature and pressure control, which means it's ready to brew when you press the button. It also uses a technology called Thermo Jet that lets it heat up in just 3 seconds, which means you can get your espresso quicker than other home espresso machines (which take between 10 and 30 minutes to warm up).
This machine was built with simplicity in mind, which is why there's only one button that can control everything. You can select one or two shots and also choose the brewing time as well, which is something you're required to do manually like other espresso machines in this price range. The polished stainless finish gives it a premium appearance, and its small dimensions are ideal for those with limited counter space or a smaller kitchen.
The Bambino Plus also comes with all the equipment you require to get started brewing, such as the 54mm tamper from a steel and a dose trimmer tool. This is the only machine of its kind that does this. It shows how Breville intends to make their products as foolproof and reliable as they can. It will remind you to descal and clean it, ensuring that it runs efficiently.
The Bambino Plus may be the most basic espresso machine for those new to espresso. It's user-friendly and has a quick heat-up time, and does a good job of automatically texturing milk for you. Its high price may be too expensive for some people.
2. De'Longhi Stilosa
The De'Longhi Stilosa is a well-rounded, budget-friendly 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 excellent cappuccinos, espresso, and lattes. However, it has some drawbacks that should be considered.
The Stilosa scored below average for its control of brew and quality in our brewing metrics. This was due to its small filter baskets as well as its lack of temperature control, which make it difficult to alter the extraction process. We liked the fact that this unit is quick to heat up and that the spout is able to be adjusted to an ideal height.
It also includes a convenient water tank that can hold up 34 ounces. It also includes a built-in level indicator so you can tell when it's time to refill. It's also movable and can be used when you need to clean the tank, or in the event that you don't have a sink close by. Another feature new to this model is a removable drip tray that allows you to put taller cups on the spout.
Stilosa was also a disappointment when it came to our steaming measurements. This was due to its lack of control over steam temperature as well as the absence of a pre-infusion function which are both standard features on much more expensive machines. Despite these issues we did like the fact that it doesn't need any maintenance and is covered by a one-year warranty. For its price and performance, the De'Longhi Stilosa makes a great addition to any coffee bar. It's more user-friendly than other models we've tried and will save money on cafe drinks.
3. Breville Barista Express Impress
The Breville Express Impress Barista (that's quite a mouthful, don't you think?) is a machine made specifically for people who are interested in espresso. This single boiler, pumps-driven machine is designed to make it easy for anyone to take an espresso shot without sacrificing flavor or brewing consistency.
The simple controls make it easy to alter the settings for the grinder, tamper and brew groups. You can select between double or single shots, as well as your preferred temperature. The thermocoil heater built-in ensures that your espresso is ready to go within 30 seconds. This is much faster than the typical wait of 30 minutes single boiler machines require to get to temperature.
The "impressive" dosing-andamping system that works with the tamper dials in the correct amount of ground coffee per shot. This system makes use of an integrated sensor that measures the depth of the basket, and adjusts amount of ground coffee dispersed. And if you're feeling less certain about the ability to control the grind size, water temperature and dosing, the machine comes with several presets that can help.
The Barista Express Impress also comes with the infamous single hole steam wand that can create stunning latte art. This is the same wand that you'll find in Breville’s high-end Barista Express machines, and it's great.
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 daunting or taking the enjoyment out of making an espresso. I'm glad to give it a thumbs-up for this!
4. Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great option for home baristas who prioritize quality design, style and convenience. Its sleek design, professional grade components, and consistent performance make it a stunning addition to your coffee bar. Beginners will also benefit from this machine, because it lets them learn about steaming and espresso without having to think about programming or the complexity.
One of the most striking features of this machine is its PID-controlled brew boiler that ensures rapid warming up time and a steady temperature. This is especially important for espresso drinks, since even small fluctuations in the temperature of water can have a huge impact on the taste and quality of your coffee.
The Diletta's separate steaming thermoblock is another thing that stands out. It allows you to steam milk and brew espresso at the same time. This can be a major time-saver and assists in ensuring that your milk is of the proper texture for your drinks. This can save energy since it only requires energy only when it is required.
This machine also features a pressure gauge on the head of the group. This is a nice feature that lets you check the pressure of your extraction in real-time. You can adjust the OPV to get a more precise extraction. This is usually reserved for machines that cost more.
Other noteworthy features of the Diletta include its easy-to-clean side-accessible water tank and its optional energy saver mode, which can be adjusted in increments of 10 minutes that can last up to two hours. The boiler wrap is insulated, which reduces heat loss, and its dual-temperature system reduces static electricity, which means less waste and lower energy costs.
Some users have complained about the long repair times and low durability of this machine. Some have also had poor customer service from Diletta and have had difficulty resolving warranty issues.
5. Jura E8
This premium super-automatic espresso machine has a dazzling array of pre-programmed specialty drinks that you can choose from the click of a button. It also makes ristrettos, cappuccinos, macchiatos flat whites, teas and flat whites and plain coffee, hot chocolate and plain espresso. Its cutting-edge brewing technology and stylish color display are just a few of the attributes that distinguish this machine from other machines.
The E8 uses the Aroma G3 grinder to grind beans with speed and precision. espresso and filter coffee machine comes with 8 grind settings, which may seem like a lot compared to other super-automatics that provide three or four. The higher settings allow you to regulate the size and consistency of your cup, which is essential for a good cup.
The Jura E8 is equipped with a powerful burr grinder and an advanced pre-infusion process. These two elements make for an espresso that is consistently top-quality. The PEP process utilizes short bursts of water to push the coffee through the grinder, which allows for full flavor extraction. The resultant cup is richer and fuller, as well as more flavorful than typical instant coffee made by Keurig.
The Jura E8 is designed to create a variety of drinks and it does so extremely well. It produces a strong smooth cappuccino, as well as an excellent espresso. The only issue is that it's not able to make an espresso. This requires a high pressure steam boiler to make an extremely thick, foamy bubble.
This machine is not as difficult to clean as other super automatics. It will automatically clean itself and descale after each use and it can be easily programmed to do more thorough cleaning at least every two years. It will remind you to change the filter after 80 drinks.