Best Espresso Machine Reviews
The distinctive flavor of espresso is created by high temperatures and pressure. If you wish to make the most of it, a high-quality espresso machine is essential.
This Breville model is equipped with the same ThermoJet thermocoil that's found in commercial machines used by professionals. It heats in just three seconds so you can start making espresso as soon as you're ready.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
This reviewer has been offered promotional considerations or sweepstakes entries.
If you're looking for an easy cup of coffee and don't want the milk-steaming features of a traditional espresso machine, the Nespresso Vertuo Plus is a good option. This compact, basic machine is sleek and will fit on any counter. The water tank can be set to the dimensions of your preference so that you don't need to leave it unattended.
It utilizes a method of extraction known as "Centrifusion" to extract the flavor without overheating. This also results in an extremely thick crema.
The machine is operated by one button, making it super easy to use. The machine is able to automatically adjust its brewing parameters to the particular blends of each capsule based on the barcode. It's a great option for those who want to start their day with a beautiful cup of coffee and have a lot of time to spare. However, you're restricted to making use of Nespresso pods, which aren't cheap, and it isn't the longest-lasting model.
2. Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia espresso machine is an excellent entry-level model for novices. It's made of commercial grade parts and has a huge second-hand market, which speaks to its long-lasting durability. It's not the best espresso machine for professionals, however. For those who want to make coffee of cafe-quality an even more powerful boiler is the better choice. However, the Silvia is a great place to start.
Its portafilter is of the same size used in cafes, which makes it easier to follow recipes designed for commercial kitchens. The grouphead is commercial-grade and 58mm in size, which is thermally stable. The steam wand, which is also user-friendly and is a type of commercial quality.
There are some limitations, like only one boiler, and a basic rocker switch to turn it off and on. It's not ideal for people who require programmable features such as pre-infusion or customizable timed shots, but it's still an excellent performer for the price. It also comes with a black wood-handled premium tamper.
3. Philips 3200 Series
This fully automatic Philips espresso machine is a great option for those who want to prepare cafe-quality drinks in the comfort of their own home. The machine is easy to operate and comes with a variety of amazing features. It's also reasonably priced.
It has a wide selection of drinks that are one-touch. These include the machines espresso machines classics like espresso, Americano, latte macchiato, and cappuccino. The machine is also able to provide hot drinking water. The Philips 3200 Series also is relatively easy to clean.
Although some people may be apprehensive about this machine's plastic construction, it shouldn’t be a problem. Most consumers find that the quality of the plastic is good and that it's long-lasting.
The Philips 3200 Series espresso machine is a simple way to make your favorite milk based coffee drinks. It's perfect for those looking to save money on coffee shop trips. It is also easy to use and requires minimal maintenance. If you want a richer espresso, there are other options. You can also get an alternative that does not come with the LatteGo technology at an affordable price.
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 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 utilizes in their professional coffee machines. It also comes with a three-way solenoid that removes any remaining steam or water after brewing. It also includes the commercial steam wand which is a major improvement over the panarello-style wands that are found on cheaper machines. The wands can do little more than infuse water to maximize foam production using undersized boilers.
The stainless steel body of the Classic Pro may not be as sleek or modern as its rivals, but it offers a welcome 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 pokes that can make pulling the perfect shot a difficult task to baristas who are just starting out.
5. ECM Casa V
ECM, a sister company of Profitec (another well-known high-end espresso machine), is not known for its entry-level machines. However they do manufacture one model, the Casa V. It's a single boiler model, that is less expensive than the Rancilio Silvia and Gaggia Classic Pro. However, it appears and performs like an espresso machine that is expensive. The articulating commercial-style steam wand has a lot of power and the stainless steel mirror-finished housing is a nice talking point.
The heating element of 1200 watts heats up the 0.4 Liter Eco Brass boiler quickly. It reaches brew temperatures within 5-7 minutes, and is ready to steam in just a minute. The pressure gauge for brewing is an important feature, since it allows you to monitor and adjust the pressure of your pump.
ECM has put high-quality espresso machine technology into the form of a compact unit that can easily fit into any kitchen. The Casa V will also look fantastic in any design that has a coffee theme. It's made in the same manner as traditional commercial espresso machines have been built for decades, and features easily accessible parts that even a mechanically inclined home user can feel comfortable fixing or maintaining.