Here’s the best Espresso machine you can buy right now
In the 2nd part of our winter series, we move on from instant Coffee to the fan-favorite Espresso machines. Undoubtedly, there are a plethora of Espresso makers out there that you can buy but here I have shortlisted some of the most popular and well-rounded Espresso machines, all of which offer something unique and have their own character.
The best value: De’Longhi Stilosa Expresso
Being one of the cheaper Espresso machines in the market, it would seem obvious that this machine sacrifices much quality for cost but that could not be farther from the truth. If you’re familiar with the Espresso maker it can produce a shocking extraction yield of 21-23% however at first it may range around 11%. It is extremely convenient to use and refill the water tank. It only takes around 4 or so minutes for it to reach optimum temperature. It consistently pulls good-quality shots of Espresso and is quite unbeatable for the money as long as you maintain a high temperature.
Best for beginners: Breville Barista Express Impress
The Breville Barista Express Impress is a versatile espresso machine that suits both beginners and coffee enthusiasts. It combines the art of manual brewing with convenient automated features. With its powerful 15-bar Italian pump and quick-heating ThermoJet system, this machine is designed for speed and efficiency, reaching the ideal brewing temperature in just 3 seconds. One of the key highlights of the Barista Express Impress is its built-in burr grinder with 25 adjustable settings. This allows you to customize your grind size to match any type of coffee bean or personal preference. Whether you prefer a fine grind for espresso or a coarser grind for French press, this machine has got you covered. One of its standout features is the Assisted Tamping system, which automatically doses and tamps coffee grounds with 10kg of pressure, ensuring consistent results. This feature is particularly useful for those new to espresso making, as it takes the guesswork out of preparing an even puck for extraction. The machine also uses PID temperature control to maintain water temperature within 1 degree of the set point, which is essential for balanced and flavorful espresso. For milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, the manual steam wand provides powerful steam pressure to create creamy microfoam. This opens up endless possibilities for latte art and adds a professional touch to your homemade beverages. The Barista Express Impress comes equipped with a generous 2-liter water tank that can be easily removed for refilling. It also includes an integrated water filter to ensure clean and pure-tasting coffee. With its user-friendly interface featuring single and double shot buttons, stainless-steel portafilter, and informative LCD display, operating this machine is a breeze.
Best for enthusiasts: Diletta Mio Expresso
The Diletta Mio Espresso Machine is a compact, semi-automatic espresso maker designed for home baristas who want precision and control. With its classic Italian design, the Mio is crafted from durable stainless steel, giving it a premium look and feel. At the heart of the machine is a powerful 1.8-liter copper boiler, providing excellent thermal stability and optimal steam power for consistent espresso shots.
– E61 Group Head: The Diletta Mio features an E61 group head, a hallmark of high-quality espresso machines, which maintains temperature stability for even extraction.
– Commercial-Grade Portafilter: Paired with a commercial-grade 58mm portafilter, the machine delivers rich, crema-topped espresso shots.
– Vibration Pump: The machine also has a robust vibration pump that ensures consistent pressure, making it capable of producing professional-quality espresso.
– Powerful Steam Wand: For milk-based drinks, the Mio includes a powerful steam wand that provides ample steam pressure for creating creamy microfoam, ideal for lattes and cappuccinos.
– Manual Control: The manual control of the steam wand offers flexibility for latte art and other techniques.
– Removable Water Tank: It also has an easy-to-access, removable 2.5-liter water tank, making refills and maintenance simple.
Compact yet packed with professional features, the Diletta Mio is ideal for espresso enthusiasts looking for a high-performance machine that offers a hands-on approach.
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