Best Espresso Machine Reviews
The unique flavor of espresso is a result of high temperatures and pressure. If you want to make the most of it, a high-quality espresso machine is vital.
This Breville model is equipped with the same ThermoJet thermocoil used in commercial machines used by professionals. It's heated in just three seconds, so you can begin making espresso right away.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
This reviewer was given promotional benefits or the chance to win a sweepstakes entry.
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus makes a perfect choice if you're looking to make a quick cup but don't mind the lack of milk steaming. This compact machine has a minimalist design and can easily be tucked away on the counter (the water tank that comes with it can be adjusted to the size of the tank, so you don't need to leave the machine unattended).
It uses a system of extraction known as "Centrifusion" to extract the flavor without overheating. This also creates the thickest crema.
The machine is simple to operate, using just one button. The machine is able to automatically adjust its settings for brewing to the specific blends of each capsule based on the barcode. This is an excellent option for those with lots of time and would like to start the day with a beautiful cup of coffee and espresso maker. You're limited to using Nespresso capsules which are costly. It's also not the longest-lasting of coffee makers.
2. Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia is a great espresso machine that is suitable for beginners. It is made of commercial-grade parts and has a huge second-hand market, which proves its long-lasting durability. It's not the most efficient espresso machine for professionals, but. A more powerful boiler would be the better option for those who want to make coffee that will rival cafe-quality drinks, but the Silvia is a good place to start for any barista who wants to make a home-based espresso.
Its portafilter is of the same size used in cafes making it simpler to follow recipes created for commercial kitchens. The grouphead is also an industrial-grade 58mm part that's thermally stable. The steam wand is a commercial-grade model that is easy to use.
It's not without its limitations, like a simple rocker switch that turns it off and on and only one boiler. It's not the best option for those seeking programmable features like pre-infusion, or custom timed shots. However, it performs well for its price. It also comes with a black, wood-handled premium tamper.
3. Philips 3200 Series
This fully automatic espresso machine from Philips is a good choice for those who want to prepare cafe-quality drinks from home. It is easy to use and comes with a number of impressive features. It's also relatively inexpensive.
It comes with a broad selection of drinks that can be made with just a touch. The most popular drinks include espresso, Americano latte macchiato and cappuccino. The machine also has the ability to dispense hot drinking water. The Philips 3200 Series is also fairly simple to clean.
While some might be a bit sceptical about the fact that the machine is made from plastic, it shouldn't be a deal-breaker. Most consumers find that the quality of the plastic is excellent, and it's durable.
The Philips 3200 Series espresso machine is a great method to make your favorite milk-based coffee drinks. It is perfect for those who want to save money on coffee shop trips. It's also very easy to operate and requires minimal maintenance. However, if you're looking for the most powerful mini espresso maker, there are better options available. You can also buy a version which does not have the LatteGo system at a lower cost.
4. Gaggia Classic Pro
Gaggia Classic Pro is an entry-level espresso maker built to last. It builds on the decades-old reputation of the Original Classic with a few upgrades including a frame which shows how much water is left along with rocker switches, as well as temperature-ready lighting. In terms of brewing, the Classic Pro utilizes the same commercial-style brew group and portafilter that Gaggia employs in their professional espresso machine for home coffee makers, and comes with a three-way solenoid valve to purge any residual steam or water left after the brewing. It also has a commercial steam wand, which is major improvement over the panarello wands on most less expensive machines that can do little more than inject air to increase foam production from boilers that aren't big enough.
While it may not look as sleek or modern as some of the competitors The Classic Pro's stainless steel body is a welcome quality over many of its plastic rivals. It also does not have unnecessary features such as PID temperature control as well as fancy volumetric jiggery poking that can make a perfect shot difficult to new baristas.
5. ECM Casa V
ECM, a subsidiary company of Profitec (another well-known high-end espresso makers machine), is not known for its entry-level machines. However they do produce one, the Casa V. It's one boiler machine which is much less expensive than the Rancilio Silvia and Gaggia Classic Pro. However, it looks and performs like an espresso machine that is expensive. The articulating commercial style steam wand packs a ton of power and the stainless steel mirror-finished body is a good talking point.
The heating element that is 1200 watts can heat 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 pressure gauge for brewing is an important feature, since it lets you monitor and adjust the pressure of the pump.
ECM has put high-quality espresso machine (made a post) technology into the form of a compact unit that is easy to integrate into any kitchen. The Casa V will also look amazing in any design with a coffee theme. It is made exactly the same way as traditional commercial espresso machines and is equipped with easy-to-access parts. Any mechanically inclined home owner can fix or maintain it.