Best Espresso Machine Reviews
Espresso requires high temperatures and pressure to make its unique flavor. If you wish to make the most of it, the top espresso machine is necessary.
This Breville model is equipped with ThermoJet Thermocoil, the same thermocoil that is used in commercial machines. It's heated in just three seconds so you can start brewing espresso in a matter of minutes.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
This reviewer was given promotional benefits or an entry in a sweepstakes.
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus makes a excellent choice if you're looking for a quick cup and don't care about the lack of steaming milk. This compact machine has a minimalist aesthetic and can easily fit on the counter (the water tank that comes with it can be adjusted for size, so you don't need to leave the machine unattended).
It is made using an extraction method known as "Centrifusion." The capsules are spun at more than 7,000 rpm in order to extract flavor without burning the grounds. This process also creates an extremely thick crema.
This machine has only one button, making it extremely user-friendly. The machine recognizes the specific blend of each capsule by analyzing its barcode, and then adjusts its brewing parameters in line with. It's a great option for those who would like to start their day with a delicious cup of coffee and have a lot of time. However, you're restricted to using Nespresso pods--which aren't cheap--and it isn't the most durable model.
2. Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia espresso machine is an excellent entry-level model for novices. It's constructed of commercial-grade components, and has a large second-hand market that speaks to its durability. It's not the ideal espresso machine for professionals, though. A more powerful boiler would be the better option for those who want to make coffee that will compete with the best cafe drinks, but the Silvia is a good starting point for any home barista.
Its portafilter is the exact size that cafes use which makes it much easier to follow recipes designed for commercial machines. The grouphead is an industrial-grade 58mm part that's thermally stable. The steam wand, too, is commercial grade and easy to use.
It's not perfect, such as a basic rocker switch to turn it off and on and only one boiler. It's not the ideal choice for those looking for programmable features such as pre-infusion and custom timed website shots. However, it performs quite well for the money. It also comes with a premium black wood-handled tamper.
3. Philips 3200 Series
This fully automatic espresso machine from Philips is a great choice for those looking to prepare cafe-quality drinks from home. The machine has numerous amazing features and is easy to use. It's also quite affordable.
It has a great selection of drinks that are one-touch. The most popular drinks include espresso, Americano latte macchiato and cappuccino. In addition the machine can dispensate hot water. The Philips 3200 Series also is relatively simple to clean.
While some might be apprehensive about the fact that this machine is made of plastic, it shouldn't be a deal-breaker. Many consumers are pleased with the durability and quality of the plastic.
The Philips 3200 Series is a practical espresso machine that will help you make your favorite milk-based coffee drinks at home. It's perfect for those looking to save money on coffee shop visits. It's also easy to use and requires minimal maintenance. If you're looking for a more rich espresso, there are alternatives. You can also purchase a version that does not include the LatteGo system for less cost.
4. Gaggia Classic Pro
Gaggia Classic Pro is an espresso maker that is built to last. It builds on the long-standing reputation of the classic Classic with a few improvements with a frame that indicates how much water remains, rocker switches and temperature ready lighting. The Classic Pro uses the same commercial-style portafilter and brew group that Gaggia uses for their professional coffee machines. It also features three-way solenoid which removes any residual water or steam after making. It also comes with a commercial-style steam wand, which is major improvement over the panarello wands found on the majority of lesser machines that do little more than inject air to increase the production of foam from boilers that aren't big enough.
The stainless steel body of the Classic Pro may not be as sleek and modern as some of its competitors however, it offers an excellent level of durability over their plastic counterparts. It is also devoid of unnecessary features, such as PID temperature control as well as fancy volumetric jiggery poking which can make pulling a perfect shot difficult to new baristas.
5. ECM Casa V
ECM (sister company to Profitec, another well known high-end espresso maker) isn't known for its basic machines, but they do make one in the Casa V. This is one boiler machine that is a lot cheaper than the Rancilio Silvia or Gaggia Classic Pro however it looks and functions like a more expensive machine. The stainless steel mirror-finished housing and the articulating steam wand are both striking.
The heating element with 1200 watts heats up the 0.4 Liter Eco Brass boiler quickly. It can reach brew temperature within 5-7 minutes and is ready for steam in just a minute. The brew gauge is an excellent feature as it allows you to monitor and adjust the pressure of your pump.
ECM has put the most reliable espresso machine technology in a compact package, which is easy to integrate into any kitchen. The Casa V will also look fantastic in any design that has a coffee theme. It's made exactly the same way as traditional commercial espresso machines have been built for decades, with easy-to-access parts that any mechanically inclined homeowner can be comfortable repairing or maintaining.