The Best Home Espresso Machine
A superautomatic espresso machine is a great choice for someone who doesn't have barista experience but would like to enjoy a quality cup of coffee at home. These machines have electronic features that are automatic and provide convenience. They also are quick to heat up and don't occupy much counter space.
This model has a programmable volumetric dose as well an adjustable preinfusion. It also includes a steam wand and commercial-grade group head.
1. Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus, despite its cute name, is an actual machine. It's packed with features that make it a good option for those wanting to move up from the standard Breville espresso machines or who prefer an automated alternative to manual.
It's an PID controller that handles the temperature and pressure control, so it's ready for brewing the moment you push the button. It also uses the technology known as Thermo Jet, which allows it to heat up in only 3 seconds, so you can get your espresso faster than most other espresso machines at home (which take between 10 and 30 minutes to warm up).
The machine was created with simplicity in mind. There is just one button to control everything. You can select a single or double shot, and you can also set the brewing time as well, which is something you're required to manually like other espresso machines in this price range. The polished stainless finish gives it a premium appearance, and its compact dimensions are ideal for those with limited counter space or a tighter kitchen.
The Bambino Plus comes with everything you need to begin making your own. This includes a metal 54mm tamper as well as a dose trimming tool. This is the only machine of its kind to do this. It demonstrates how Breville wants to ensure that their products are as secure and reliable as possible. It also comes with built-in reminders to clean and descale to ensure that it is running efficiently.
The Bambino Plus may be the most affordable espresso machine for those who are new to the world of espresso. It's easy to use and has a quick heat-up time and does a great job of automatically blending 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 user-friendly, looks nice on the counter, and produces great espresso, cappuccinos and lattes. However, it does have a few drawbacks that should be thought about.
The Stilosa scored below average in its brew control and quality in our metrics for brewing. This was due to the small size of the filter baskets, as well as the lack of a temperature control. Both of these aspects limit your ability customize extraction. However, we liked the fact that it takes only a few minutes for the machine to heat up and that it offers an excellent amount of adjustment on the spout height.
The model also comes with a convenient water reservoir that can hold up to 34 ounces. It also has an inbuilt indicator for the level to let you know when to refill. It's also movable which is useful in the event that you want to clean the tank, or in the event that there's no sink nearby. It 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 over the steam temperature and the absence of a pre-infusion option that are typical features on more expensive machines. Despite its shortcomings we liked that it is easy to maintain and comes with a 1-year warranty. For the price and the performance, the De'Longhi Stilosa makes a great addition to any home coffee bar. It's much easier to use than other models we've tried and will help you save money on cafe drinks.
3. Breville Barista Express Impress
The Breville Barista Express Impress (that's an impressive name do you not think?) This machine is aimed at beginners who are interested in coffee. This single boiler, pumps-driven machine is designed to make it easy for anyone to take an espresso shot without sacrificing flavor and consistency in the brewing.
Its easy-to-use controls make it easy to adjust the settings of the grinder, tamper and brew groups. You can also choose between single or double shots and pick your preferred temperature. A built-in thermocoil heating system guarantees that your espresso will be ready to drink in about 30 seconds, which is a lot quicker than the half hour that the majority of single boiler machines require to get to temperature.
The "impressive" dosing-and-tamping device, which works with the tamper, dials in the correct amount of ground coffee per shot. This system uses an integrated sensor to measure basket depth and adjusts the amount of ground coffee dispersed. If you're not sure about your ability to control the size of the grind and water temperature manually The machine comes with presets that can be helpful.
The Barista Express Impress includes the famous single-hole steam wand, which can create some stunning Latte art also. This is the same wand is found in Breville's top-of-the-line Barista Express machines, and it's great.
I'm not one to advocate for coffee shortcuts, fully automatic machines, or even pods, but the Impress does what it sets out to do without becoming intimidating or taking away the fun of preparing a good shot of espresso. I'm pleased with it and I'm giving it a thumbs-up!
4. Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great option for home baristas who are devoted to quality design, style, and ease of use. Its sleek design, professional grade components, and constant performance make it a striking addition to your coffee corner. Beginners can also benefit from this machine, since it allows them to learn about espresso and steaming without worrying about programming or complexities.
One of the most striking features of this machine is the brew boiler that is controlled by PID that ensures rapid warm-up time and a steady temperature. This is essential, especially for espresso, because even minor changes in water temperature can alter the taste and quality of the espresso.
Another noteworthy feature is separate thermoblock in Diletta's steaming that lets you prepare espresso and steam your milk at the same time. This can be a significant time-saver and helps to ensure that your milk has the perfect texture for your drinks. This saves energy as it only requires power when needed.
The machine has an indicator of pressure on the group head. It's a nice feature because it lets you check the pressure of your extraction live. You can adjust the OPV to achieve a better extraction. This is usually reserved for machines costing much more.
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 to 2 hours. The boiler wrap is insulated, which reduces heat loss. Its dual-temperature system reduces static electricity, resulting in less waste and lower energy costs.
However, some users have complained about the longevity of this machine and long repair times. Coffeee has also been criticized for its poor customer service and inability to resolve warranty problems.
5. Jura E8
This premium super-automatic machine offers an array of specialty drinks that can be prepared with a single button. It can also make macchiatos, ristrettos, cappuccinos, flat whites and teas along with plain coffee, hot chocolate and plain espresso. Its innovative brewing technology and its elegant color display are only some of the features that distinguish this machine from the rest.
The E8 utilizes the Aroma G3 grinder to grind beans quickly and accurately. It also has 8 grind settings, which could seem like a lot compared to other super-automatics that only provide 3 or 4. The higher range allows you to regulate the size and consistency, which is essential for a great cup.
The Jura E8 is equipped with powerful burr grinders and an advanced pre-infusion process. These two elements are responsible for producing an espresso that is consistently top-quality. The PEP process utilizes short bursts in water to force the coffee through the grinder, allowing full flavor extraction. The result is more full and more luscious than instant coffee brewed with a Keurig.
The Jura E8 can make a variety of drinks and it does it exceptionally well. It produces an excellent, strong espresso and smooth cappuccino. The only real drawback is that it's not able to make a proper latte, which really needs the high pressure of steam boilers to make the thick foam.
Like many super automated machines that are available, this one requires some maintenance, however it is relatively easy to keep clean. It will automatically clean 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 every 80 drinks.