The Best Home Espresso Machine
Superautomatic espresso machines are an excellent alternative for those who don't have barista experience but still would like to enjoy premium coffee at home. These machines come with automatic features and digital convenience. They heat quickly and don't need much counter space.
This model comes with 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, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to upgrade from the basic Breville espresso machines or need a more automated alternative than manual.
It comes with a PID controller to do the hard work of temperature control and pressure control so that it's ready to drink the moment you press the button. It also uses a technology called Thermo Jet that lets it heat up in just 3 seconds, meaning you can enjoy your espresso quicker than other home espresso machines (which take between 10 and 30 minutes to warm up).
The machine was built with simplicity in mind. There is only one button to manage everything. You can choose either a single or double shot as well as set the brewing time, which is something you have to do manually like other espresso machines of this price range. The brushed stainless finish gives it a premium appearance, and its small size is perfect for those who have limited counter space or a small kitchen.
The Bambino Plus also comes with all the equipment you require to begin brewing, including an tamper made of metal measuring 54 millimeters and a dose trimmer tool. This is the only machine of its kind that can do this. It shows how Breville intends to ensure that their products are as secure and reliable as they can. It also has built-in reminders for descaling and cleaning to ensure that it is running efficiently.
The Bambino Plus may be the best entry-level espresso machine for those new to the world of espresso. It's easy to use and has a quick heat-up time, and does a good job of automatically texturing milk for you. However, its high price could put it out of reach 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. However, it has some drawbacks, which should be considered.
In our brewing metrics The Stilosa scored average to below-average for its quality of brewing and its control. This was mostly due to the small size of the filter baskets and lack of temperature control, which both make it difficult to alter the extraction process. We liked the fact that this unit can be heated quickly and that the spout can be adjusted to a good height.
The unit also has an easy-to-fill reservoir that can hold up to 34 ounces. It also has an integrated level indicator to let you know when to refill. It is removable, which can be useful if you need to clean it or don't have access an indoor sink. This model also has a drip pan that is removable, which allows you to use taller cup sizes underneath the spout.
Stilosa was also a disappointment on our steaming metrics. This resulted from its lack of control of the temperature of the steam, and lack of pre-infusion options. Both of these are features that are common in machines that cost much more. Despite its shortcomings we liked the fact that it's easy to maintain and comes with a 1-year warranty. The De'Longhi Stilosa is a great option for a home coffee bar. It's a bit easier to use than some other models we've tried and will save you money on the cost of cafe drinks.
3. Breville Barista Express Impress
The Breville Barista Express Impress (that's an impressive name, don't you think?) This machine is designed for beginners who are interested in coffee. This single boiler, pumps-driven machine was designed to make it simple for anyone to make an espresso shot without sacrificing flavor or consistency of the brewing.
First of all it takes the guesswork out of setting the grinder, tamper, and brew group settings by using its simple-to-use controls. You can also choose between single or double shots and pick your preferred temperature. The thermocoil heater built-in guarantees that your espresso will be ready to use in 30 seconds. This is much faster than the typical wait of 30 minutes single boiler machines need to reach temperature.
The "impressive" dosing-and-tamping device that works with the tamper, dials in the correct amount of ground coffee for each shot. This system makes use of an integrated sensor that measures basket depth and adjusts the amount of ground coffee dispersed. If you are not confident about your ability to control the grind size and temperature of the water manually, the machine has presets that can help.
Finally, the Barista Express Impress includes the infamous single-hole steam wand that can create some stunning artworks of latte, too. This is the same wand that you'll find in Breville's premium Barista Express machines, and it's a great tool.
I'm not a big advocate for coffee shortcuts, fully automated machines espresso machines or even pods however the Impress does what it's designed to do without becoming difficult or removing the enjoyment of making an excellent espresso. I'm pleased with it and give it a thumbs up!
4. Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is a great choice for home baristas who value quality design, style and user-friendliness. Its sleek design, professional-grade components, and consistently high-quality performance make it a striking addition to your coffee corner. Beginners will also benefit from this machine, because it lets them learn about espresso and steaming without having to think about programming or the complexity.
One of the most impressive aspects of this machine is its PID-controlled brew boiler, which ensures rapid warm-up time and a steady temperature. This is particularly important for espresso drinks, as even tiny variations in temperature of the water can have a huge impact on the taste and quality of your beverage.
The Diletta's separate steaming thermoblock is another feature that stands out. It allows you to steam milk and make espresso at the simultaneously. This can help you save time and ensure that your milk has the right consistency. This saves energy as it only uses energy when it is needed.
This machine also features a pressure gauge on the head of the group, which is a nice addition that lets you track your extraction pressure in real-time. You can adjust the OPV to fine-tune the extraction, giving you the ability to customize your extraction, something that is typically reserved for more expensive machines.
Other noteworthy features of the Diletta include its easy-to-clean, accessible water tank on the side and its energy saving mode, which is adjustable in increments of 10 minutes to two hours. The boiler wrap is insulated, which reduces heat loss and its dual-temperature technology reduces static electricity, which means less waste and lower energy bills.
However, some users have complained about the durability of the machine and lengthy repair times. Additionally, some have had poor customer service from Diletta and have had difficulty resolving warranty issues.
5. Jura E8
This premium super-automatic espresso machine has a dazzling array of pre-programmed specialty drinks that can be accessed by pressing one button. It can also make macchiatos, ristrettos, cappuccinos flat whites, and teas along with plain coffee, hot chocolate and plain espresso. This machine is distinguished by its cutting-edge brewing technologies and stylish color display.
The E8 uses an Aroma G3 grinder that provides a quick and accurate grind of whole beans. It also comes with 8 grind settings, which might seem like a lot when compared to other super-automatics that only offer three or four. However, the higher settings give you greater control over the size and consistency of your grind, and this is crucial to ensure a perfect cup of coffee.
The Jura E8 is equipped with powerful burr grinders and an advanced pre-infusion process. These two components are responsible for producing an espresso that is consistently of high-quality. The PEP process utilizes short bursts of water to push the coffee through the grinder, which allows for full flavor extraction. The resultant cup is richer and fuller, as well as more flavorful than the average instant coffee that comes from a Keurig.
The Jura E8 can make a variety of drinks and does it exceptionally well. It makes excellent, strong espresso as well as a silky-smooth cappuccino. The only drawback is that it can't produce the latte. This requires a steam high pressure boiler to make a thick, foamy bubble.
Like most super automatics that are available, this one requires a bit of maintenance however it is relatively easy to keep clean. It will descale automatically and clean itself after every use. You can easily program it to perform more thorough cleaning at least once or twice a year. It will remind you to change the filter every 80 drinks.