The Best Home Espresso Machine
A superautomatic espresso machine is a great option for those who don't have barista experience but would like to enjoy a quality cup of coffee at home. These machines have automated features and digital convenience. They heat quickly and don't take up large counter space.
The model is programmable for volumetric dosing and an adjustable pre-infusion. It includes 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 loaded with features that make it a great option for those who wants to upgrade from the standard Breville espressi machines, or for those who want a more automated option than manual.
It uses a PID controller that does the temperature and pressure control, so it's ready for brewing the moment you push the button. It also uses a technology called Thermo Jet, which allows it to heat up in only 3 seconds, so you can make your espresso quicker than other espresso machines for home use (which take between 10 and 30 minutes to warm up).
The machine was designed with simplicity in mind. There is only one button to manage everything. You can select one or two shots, and you can also choose the brewing time that you have to do manually like other espresso machines of this price range. The brushed stainless steel finish gives it a premium look, and its compact size makes it ideal for those with little countertop space or a cramped kitchen.
The Bambino Plus includes everything you need to begin with brewing. 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 shows how Breville intends to make their products as foolproof and reliable as possible. It also has built-in reminders to clean and descale to ensure it runs smoothly.
If you're just beginning to learn about espresso coffee, the Bambino Plus is arguably the ideal entry-level home espresso machine. It's simple to use, warms up quickly, and it automatically sends milk to you. However, its high cost could make it beyond the reach of some people.
2. De'Longhi Stilosa
The De'Longhi Stilosa is a well-rounded and budget-friendly manual espresso machine that is suitable for beginners and coffee aficionados alike. It's easy-to-use, looks good on the counter, and can make fantastic cappuccinos, great espresso and lattes. However, it has a few disadvantages that need to be considered.
The Stilosa scored below average in its control of brew and quality in our metrics for brewing. This was due to the tiny filter baskets and the absence of a temperature control. Both of these factors restrict your ability to adjust the extraction. However, we liked the fact that it doesn't take long for this machine to preheat and it has the ability to adjust on the spout's height.
The model also comes with a convenient water reservoir that can hold up to 34 ounces. It has an inbuilt level indicator to let you know when to refill. It's also removable, which can be useful if you need to clean it or don't have access a sink. The model also comes with a removable drip pan that allows you to use taller cup sizes underneath the spout.
Stilosa was also a disappointment when it came to our steaming metrics. This was largely because of its limited control over the steam temperature and the absence of a pre-infusion option which are both standard features on much more expensive machines. Despite these shortcomings we were pleased to see the fact that it's easy to maintain and comes with a one-year warranty. For the price and the performance the De'Longhi Stilosa makes a great addition to any home coffee bar. It's a little easier to use than other models we've tested and will save you money on the cost of cafe drinks.
3. Breville Barista Express Impress
The Breville Express Impress Barista (that's quite a mouthful don't you agree?) This machine is aimed at beginners who are interested in coffee. This single boiler, pump-driven machine aims to make it easy for anyone to get a decent espresso without sacrificing flavor or website consistency.
First of all, it takes the guesswork out of changing the grinder, tamper and brew group settings using its simple-to-use controls. You can select between double and single shots, as well as the temperature you prefer. The thermocoil heater built-in guarantees that your espresso will be ready to use in 30 seconds. This is a lot faster than the 30 minutes that most single boiler machines need to reach temperature.
Another key feature is the "impressive" dosing and tamping system that works with the tamper in order to adjust the correct amount of ground coffee per shot. The system utilizes a sensor to measure the basket depth and alters how much ground coffee is dispersed. If you're less certain about your ability to control manually the grind size, water temperature and dosing, the machine comes with various presets to help.
The Barista Express Impress also comes with the famous single hole steam wand, which can create impressive latte artwork. The same wand will find in Breville's more advanced, top-of-the-line Barista Express models, and it's a great tool.
I'm not a big fan of coffee shortcuts, fully automated machines or pods. But the Impress does exactly what it says without becoming intimidating or taking the fun out of making an espresso. I'm pleased with it and give it a thumbs up!
4. Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio makes a great alternative for home baristas who focus on design, quality and user-friendliness. Its sleek design, professional-grade components, and consistent performance make it an eye-catching addition to your coffee corner. Beginners can also benefit from this machine, because it lets them learn about espresso and steaming without worrying about programming or the complexity.
This machine's PID-controlled brew heater is one of its most impressive features. It ensures rapid warm-up time and stable temperature water. This is crucial, particularly for espresso, because even small changes in the temperature of water can impact the taste and quality.
Another noteworthy feature is separate thermoblock in Diletta's steaming that allows you to prepare espresso and steam milk at the same time. This can be a major time-saver and helps ensure that your milk has the right texture for your beverages. It also conserves energy by only using power when it's required.
The machine also has a pressure gauge at the head of the group. This is a nice touch that lets you check the pressure of your extraction in real time. You can adjust the OPV to fine-tune your extraction, giving you a level of customization that's normally reserved for more expensive machines.
Other noteworthy features of the Diletta include its easy-to-clean, accessible water tank on the side and its optional energy saver mode, which can be adjusted in 10-minute increments up to two hours. The boiler wrap is insulated, which reduces heat loss. Its dual-temperature system minimizes static electricity, which results in less waste and lower energy costs.
However, some customers have complained about the durability of the machine as well as long repair times. Diletta has been criticized for its poor customer service and inability to resolve warranty issues.
5. Jura E8
This premium super-automatic machine offers an array of specialty drinks that can be made at the push of a single button. It also makes macchiatos, ristrettos and cappuccinos flat whites, and teas and plain coffee, hot chocolate and plain espresso. This machine is distinguished by its cutting-edge technology for brewing and elegant color display.
The E8 utilizes an Aroma G3 grinder to provide a quick and accurate grind of whole beans. It has eight grind settings, which might seem like a lot if contrasted with other super automatics that only have three or four. The higher setting allows you to manage the size and consistency, which is vital for a good cup.
The Jura E8 is equipped with a powerful burr grinder as well as an advanced pre-infusion process. These two elements are responsible for producing an espresso that is consistently high quality. The PEP process uses short bursts in water to force the coffee through the grinder, allowing full flavor extraction. The result is a cup that is more rich and fuller as well as more flavorful than the average instant coffee from a Keurig.
The Jura E8 can make a variety of drinks and does it exceptionally well. It makes a powerful, smooth cappuccino and an excellent espresso. The only drawback is that it's unable to make a latte. This requires a high pressure steam boiler to make an extremely thick, foamy bubble.
The machine isn't as difficult to clean as super-automatics. It will automatically self-clean and descale after every use, and it can be programmed to perform more thorough cleaning at least twice a year. It will also remind to change the filter every 80 drinks.