The Best Home Espresso Machine
A superautomatic espresso machine is a great choice for someone who doesn't have barista skills but still wants to enjoy quality coffee at home. They have features that are automatic and are digitally dependable. They are quick to heat up, and they don't require much counter space.
This model comes with programmable volumetric dosing as well as an adjustable pre-infusion. It also comes with steam wand as well as a commercial-grade group head.
1. Breville Bambino Plus
Despite its adorable name, the Bambino Plus is a serious espresso machine. It's loaded with features that make it a good option for anyone looking to upgrade from the standard Breville espresso machines or wants an alternative that is more automated than manual.
It's an PID controller that handles the temperature and pressure control, which means it's ready for brewing at the push of a button. It also has the technology known as Thermo Jet which lets it heat up in just 3 seconds, meaning you can get your espresso faster than most other espresso machines for home use (which take 10 to 30 minutes to warm up).
This machine is built with simplicity in mind, and so there's just one button to control everything. You can choose either a single or double shot and also set the brewing time that you have to do manually with other espresso machines in this price range. The brushed stainless finish gives it a classy appearance, and its compact size is ideal for those with a small counter space or a small kitchen.
The Bambino Plus includes everything you require to get started making your own. It comes with a metal 54mm tamper, as well as a dose trimming tool. This is the only machine of its kind that does this. It demonstrates how Breville wants to make their products as foolproof and reliable as possible. It will remind you to descal and clean it so it can run smoothly.
The Bambino Plus may be the most basic espresso machine for those who are new to the world of espresso. It's easy to use and has a fast heating time and does a great job of automatically blending milk for you. Its price is too expensive for some people.
2. De'Longhi Stilosa
The De'Longhi Stilosa manual espresso machine is an excellent, budget-friendly choice that's perfect for both novices and coffee lovers. It's easy-to-use, looks good on the counter, and can make fantastic cappuccinos, great espresso and lattes. There are some disadvantages that should be taken into consideration.
In our metrics for brewing we found that the Stilosa scored average to below-average for its brew quality and control. This was primarily due to its small filter baskets and the absence of temperature control, which both make it difficult to alter the extraction process. We liked that this machine heats up quickly and that the spout could be adjusted to a good height.
It also comes with a handy water tank that holds up to 34 ounces and has a built-in level indicator to let you know when it's time to refill. It's also movable, which is helpful when you need to clean the tank or if there's no sink in the vicinity. This model also has a drip pan that is removable, which allows you to use taller cups under the spout.
Stilosa was also a disappointment on our steaming metrics. This was due to its insufficient control of the temperature of steam, and lack of pre-infusion options. Both of these are standard features in machines that cost more. Despite its shortcomings we liked that it is easy to maintain and comes with a 1 year warranty. For its price and performance the De'Longhi Stilosa makes a great addition to any home coffee bar. It's a little simpler to use than other models we've tried and will save you money over paying for cafe drinks.
3. Breville Barista Express Impress
The Breville Barista Express Impress (that's quite a mouthful I bet!) This machine is aimed at beginners who are interested in espresso. This single boiler, pump-driven machine is designed to make it easy for anyone to make an espresso shot that is decent without sacrificing flavor or consistency.
Its simple-to-use controls make it simple to alter the settings for the grinder, tamper and brew groups. You can choose between double and single shots, as well as the temperature you prefer. A built-in thermocoil heating system makes sure that your espresso is ready to drink in about 30 seconds, which is a lot quicker than the half hour that the majority of traditional single boiler machines take to get to temperature.
The "impressive" dosing-and-tamping device that works with the tamper, adjusts the amount of ground coffee per shot. The system makes use of sensors to determine the basket depth and adjusts how much ground coffee is dispersed. If you're a little less confident in the ability to control the size of the grind, water temperature, and dosing, the machine has a variety of presets to aid you.
The Barista Express Impress also comes with the famous single hole steam wand that can create stunning latte art. It's the same wand you will find in Breville's more advanced, top-of-the-line Barista Express models, and it works a treat.
I'm not one who advocates for coffee shortcuts, fully automated machines or even pods, however, the Impress does exactly what it's supposed to do without becoming difficult or removing the fun of preparing a good shot of espresso. I'm happy to give it a thumbs up for this!
4. Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great option for home baristas who value quality, design, and ease of use. Its sleek design, professional-grade components, and consistently high-quality performance make it a striking addition to your coffee area. Beginners will also benefit from this machine, since it allows them to learn about steaming and espresso without worrying about programming or complexity.
One of the most striking features of this machine is its brew boiler controlled by PID, which ensures rapid warm-up times and stable water temperature. This is crucial, particularly for espresso, as even minor changes in water temperature can alter the taste and quality of the espresso.
Another noteworthy feature is steaming thermoblock that is separate to the Diletta that allows you to prepare espresso and steam milk simultaneously. This is a huge time saver, and also assists in ensuring that your milk is of the proper texture for your beverages. This saves energy as it only uses energy only when it is required.
This machine has an indicator of pressure on the group head. It's a nice touch because it lets you monitor the pressure of your extraction live. You can alter the OPV to get a more precise extraction. This is a feature normally reserved for machines that cost much more.
Other notable characteristics of the Diletta include its easy-to-clean side-accessible water tank and its energy saving mode, which is adjustable in increments of 10 minutes that can last up to two hours. Its insulated boiler wrap further reduces heat loss, and its dual-temperature technology reduces static electricity, which means less waste and lower energy bills.
Some users have complained about the lengthy repair times and poor durability of this machine. Additionally, some have had poor customer service from Diletta and have had trouble solving warranty issues.
5. Jura E8
This premium super-automatic machine offers many different specialty drinks that are made with one button. It can also make ristretto, cappuccino, macchiato, and flat whites, alongside hot chocolate and plain coffee. Its modern brewing technology and elegant color display are only a few of the features that separate this machine from the rest.
The E8 utilizes an Aroma G3 grinder that provides an efficient and precise grind of whole beans. It has eight grind settings, which might seem a lot when contrasted with other super automatics that only have 3 or 4. The higher settings allow you to manage the size and consistency of your cup, which is vital for a great cup.
In addition to its powerful burr grinder In addition to its powerful burr grinder, the Jura E8 has an intelligent pre-infusion system and pulse extraction process, both responsible for creating a high-quality cup of espresso every time. The PEP process forces water through ground coffee in short bursts, which allows the flavors to be fully extracted. The resulting cup is richer, fuller, and coffee for espresso machine more flavorful than the average instant coffee from a Keurig.
The Jura E8 is designed to make a wide variety of drinks and it does so very well. It makes excellent, strong espresso and a smooth and silky cappuccino. The only issue is that it's not able to make a latte. This requires a steam high pressure boiler in order to create the thick, fluffy foam.
As with most super-automatics, this machine does require some attention, however it is relatively easy to keep clean. It will automatically self-clean and descale after every use. It can also be programmed to do a deeper cleaning once or twice per year. It will also remind you to change the filter every 80 drinks.