Best Prosumer Espresso Machines – Top 8 Models Reviewed

Are you an aspiring home barista looking to take your espresso-making game to the next level? If so, investing in a prosumer machine might be the right move for you.

These machines are not as complex as professional versions but offer many more features than consumer ones – especially when it comes to extracting the best flavour from quality coffee beans.

After a few days of researching different units with my team, we reviewed and ranked top prosumer espresso machines to help you find the perfect one for you.

Let’s start with the overview of the top units.

8 Best Prosumer Espresso Machines

Are you ready to explore these fantastic machines even further? We’ve scoured the market to bring you the reviews of the 8 best prosumer espresso machines we believe are worth every penny.

In this blog post, you will also get tips on how to find one that fits your particular needs and budget. And if you need help choosing, feel free to reach out to our team!

Rancilio Silva Pro X – Best Overall

The Rancilio Silva Pro X espresso machine is our top pick for the best prosumer espresso machine. The main reason? Its superior quality and performance.

In other words, this machine is capable of producing the perfect shot of espresso every time. Exactly what you want from your espresso machine, right?

One of the key features in this process is its PID temperature control system which ensures that the water temperature remains stable throughout the brewing process, leading to a consistent and flavorful espresso extraction.

The Pro X machine also boasts a powerful and precise pump, which delivers a maximum pressure of up to 15 bars, resulting in a rich and creamy crema on every shot.

Other notable features of this high-grade yet affordable prosumer machine include a spacious water reservoir, a commercial-grade steam wand, and a large cup warmer.

We loved the steam wand. You will love the fact that Pro X has a professional-grade steam wand that will make perfect foam every time.

Another significant benefit of the Pro X is its compact size, which makes it ideal for smaller kitchens or those with limited counter space.

Despite its smaller size, the machine is still able to produce high-quality espresso drinks.

While reviewing it, we discovered that Pro X is easy to clean and maintain, thanks to its removable brewing group and drip tray.

It comes with a two-year warranty, which will definitely provide you with peace of mind and protection in case of any defects or malfunctions.

All in all, the Pro X is a great choice for anyone who wants the best of both worlds – commercial-grade performance and durability, combined with the convenience and affordability of a prosumer machine.

Rocket Espresso Appartamento – Runner-Up

We simply loved reviewing the Rocket Espresso Appartamento machine. It’s no wonder it is regarded as one of the best prosumer machines.

Not only that we love its name but we confirmed that it is one of the best options currently available in the market, and it is favoured by home baristas worldwide.

At first glance, you will notice that one of the most prominent features of the Appartamento is its compact design. It is just 10.5 inches wide, which makes it easy to fit into any kitchen space.

Moreover, the machine’s stainless steel casing is not only stylish but also durable, and it is easy to clean and maintain. But that’s not why you are buying, right?

In terms of performance, the Rocket Espresso Appartamento is unmatched in its category. And we don’t joke easily with this.

The coffee machine is equipped with a powerful heat exchange boiler, which ensures that the temperature remains consistent throughout the brewing process.

The machine also features a professional-grade brew head that delivers precise pressure and maximum extraction for a perfect cup of espresso each time.

If you are wondering how to handle this machine, check out our guide for using espresso machines.

Just like the Silvia Pro X, this high-grade machine is equipped with a PID controller that enables precise control over the brewing temperature.

The Rocket Espresso Appartamento also comes with a range of accessories, including a professional-grade tamper and a high-quality stainless steel frothing pitcher.

These accessories make it easier to prepare perfect coffee drinks and frothed milk.

Moreover, the Appartamento is designed with the highest attention to detail and materials. The boiler is made of brass and insulated with a nickel-plated steel layer, ensuring long-lasting thermal stability.

So, if you’re someone who loves to enjoy a high-quality espresso as if it were made by a professional barista, then you might want to consider investing in the Rocket Espresso Appartamento if you don’t like our number one pick.

In my opinion, this is hands down one of the best prosumer espresso machines currently available in the market. Trust me; you won’t be disappointed.

Breville Barista Pro – Best On-Budget

I have to say, I am thoroughly impressed with the Breville Barista Pro. With its advanced technology and reasonable price, it truly stands out as a top-of-the-line and yet budget-friendly prosumer espresso machine.

It can’t compete with Silvia Pro X or Appartamento, however, the team and I were amazed at its brewing performance, which is the most important feature when it comes to machines in this range.

This is mostly thanks to its advanced ThermoJet heating system that can reach optimal brewing temperature in just three seconds.

On top of that, Barista Pro’s heating system is made of two boilers – one for brewing your coffee and one for steaming milk. This means that you can do both actions simultaneously without having to worry about compromising the temperature.

This is mostly thanks to its advanced PID temperature control ensures a consistent temperature. This minimizes the chances of burning your espresso.

One of the standout features for me is the machine’s steam wand, which offers multiple presets for different milk-based drinks, making it incredibly easy to achieve that perfect microfoam for your latte or cappuccino.

Even so, the steam wand allows enough manual control if you are like me and want ultimate control over your milk foam production.

But the real star of the show here is the integrated conical burr grinder, which offers a wider range of grind settings that allow you to dial in your espresso just the way you like it.

All other units on our list of top prosumer machines can’t brag about this feature. However, as much as the built-in grinder is a blessing, it is also a curse.

Let me explain.

If you are buying a top-of-the-line pro-consumer unit, then you probably want to get a standalone grinder that is equally good, right?

I’m not saying that the grinder on Barista Pro is low Q. In fact, it’s got a conical burr grinder with 30 grind settings. But it’s still good to have an option to pair your prosumer machine with a grinder of your choice.

In any case, there are no reasons for us to say that we had a bad experience with this unit. In fact, you can check out our comprehensive Breville Barista Pro review for more!

La Marzocco Linea Mini – Best Upgrade

If you’re an espresso coffee lover like me, then you’ll know that finding the perfect espresso machine can make all the difference in your daily routine.

That’s why I highly recommend the La Marzocco Linea Mini if you are ready to invest the top dollar. This top-of-the-line prosumer machine option has truly been crafted with all coffee enthusiasts in mind.

Not only does it feature state-of-the-art design elements, but it also delivers a superior taste profile that is sure to please even the most discerning coffee drinkers.

Plus, with its easy-to-use interface, you’ll find that brewing your perfect cup of espresso is simple and easy even if you don’t have much espresso experience.

The Linea Mini comes geared up with a commercial-grade portafilter, brew group, and steam wand, which are designed to withstand heavy use and provide consistent and high-quality results.

One of the most impressive features of the Linea Mini is its patented dual-boiler system. This system ensures precise control of temperature and pressure, producing an unbeatable espresso extraction every time.

Additionally, the machine is also equipped with pre-infusion technology that guarantees maximum flavour extraction and aromatic goodness.

Another benefit of this model is its unparalleled durability. The machine is built to last for years, thanks to its stainless-steel body and commercial-grade components.

This means that the Linea Mini can withstand even the busiest cafes, making it an ideal investment for any coffee shop owner or home barista.

By the way, you can also check out our list of top-rated commercial machines if you want to get one for your coffee shop.

The machine comes with a PID controller that allows you to monitor and adjust the temperature, shot time, and pre-infusion parameters, giving you full control over your brewing process.

I would go as far as to say that the La Marzocco Linea Mini is, the ultimate choice for coffee aficionados and professional baristas who don’t care about the price of the unit.

The machine’s advanced features and benefits make it stand out from the rest, which is why it has undoubtedly become the go-to prosumer option globally.

Its sophisticated design, easy-to-use interface, and unmatched durability all contribute to its status as one of the best prosumer espresso machines available in today’s market.

Lelit Bianca – Best Programmable

In our review process, the Lelit Bianca prosumer machine amazed us with its ability to program your shots exactly the way you want them.

So if you are a true espresso nerd, and you want a machine that will allow you to test every single type of blend out there, this could be a great match for you.

We simply couldn’t resist the stunning design and advanced technologies that this machine offers, giving you complete control over your espresso brewing experience.

Some of the key features of the Lelit Bianca include a stainless steel build, a PID temperature control system, and a customizable shot timer.

You will like the fact that it is a dual boiler machine. It allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming, making it ideal for those who want to make both espresso and milk-based drinks.

It also comes with a rotary pump, which ensures consistent pressure during extraction and results in a high-quality espresso shot.

However, as I mentioned a few lines ago, one of the standout benefits of the Lelit Bianca is its ability to be customized to fit your preferences.

The machine comes with a range of programmable settings, including the ability to adjust the pre-infusion time, shot volume, and brewing temperature.

On top of that, I really like that the Lelit Bianca has a modern, sleek design that is both eye-catching and functional. I’m sure you will agree with me.

Overall, the Lelit Bianca is one of the best programmable prosumer espresso machines on our list here due to its impressive features and capabilities.

Its ability to be customized to fit the user’s preferences, its consistent pressure during extraction, and its modern look and design really took us away.

Nuova Simoneli Oscar II – Best Heat-Exchange

The Nuova Simonelli Oscar II is a highly respected and sought-after espresso machine also known for its quality, reliability, and outstanding performance.

If you are looking for a sleek and modern design, but also care about the espresso quality, you might want to consider this machine.

It is designed with a sleek, compact body that is perfect for home or commercial use, and its advanced brewing technology makes it an excellent choice for espresso and coffee lovers and professionals alike.

One of the most notable features of the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II is its heat exchange boiler system, which allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming without any delay or fluctuations in temperature.

Another key feature of the Oscar II is its programmable pre-infusion. It helps to ensure maximum extraction and optimal flavour from every shot of espresso.

This means that you can easily adjust the pre-infusion time and pressure to achieve the perfect balance of flavour and aroma for your specific taste.

It doesn’t allow the same level of programmability and customization as Lelit Bianca, but it is close, very close.

In addition to these features, the Oscar II also boasts a commercial-grade brewing group, a professional-style steam wand, and a large, easy-to-use control panel.

These features, along with its durable construction and high-quality components, make the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II a great investment.

We can confidently say this because it boasts some of the most advanced features and exceptional performance capabilities among the best prosumer espresso machines.

Diletta Bello – Best Build Quality

This exceptional espresso maker has consistently received high recommendations from experts and coffee enthusiasts alike. And we agree with their ratings.

Firstly, the Diletta Bello boasts a powerful 1500-watt heating system that can quickly heat the water to an optimal brewing temperature. This means you can enjoy your perfect cup of coffee in no time at all.

Additionally, this machine allows for precise temperature control, just like Linea Mini or Simonelli Oscar, ensuring that you get consistent results every single time.

Another impressive feature of the Diletta Bello espresso machine is that it is equipped with a commercial-grade brewing group – E61 group – which allows for superior espresso extraction.

This means that the coffee produced by the Diletta Bello is richer and more flavorful than other probably cheaper espresso machines on the market.

It also comes with a milk frothing wand, which can be used to create delicious lattes.

We find that the Diletta Bello’s built quality is simply amazing. It is built to last, with durable stainless steel construction that can withstand daily use.

Its advanced technology and precise brewing capabilities ensure that every cup you make will be perfectly crafted to your liking, each and every time.

It’s no wonder this esteemed machine is favoured by espresso lovers worldwide.

La Pavoni Europiccola – Best Manual

If you’re looking for a high-end manual prosumer machine, you’ve got to check out the La Pavoni Europiccola.

It not only looks awesome but it is one of the best prosumer machines because of its advanced components such as a high-quality brass boiler, three-way solenoid valve, and a professional-grade portafilter.

This eye-catching prosumer machine is specifically designed for people like you who want more than just a basic cup of coffee. And I really mean this.

When the team and I reviewed it, we couldn’t help but feel like professional baristas in a fancy restaurant. Here’s why.

If you take a look at the image above, you’ll see that the machine features a brass boiler, chrome-plated brass portafilter, and a high-quality pressure gauge that allows you to monitor the brewing process.

Furthermore, it has a 38-ounce water tank and a steam wand for milk frothing.

One of the primary features of the La Pavoni Europiccola is its lever design, which allows for complete control over the brewing process.

In other words, this machine is fully manual, so you get to decide exactly how much pressure you want to exert on the coffee grounds.

We love this level of precision because it ensures that every shot of espresso has the perfect amount of crema and body.

If you are particularly excited by this, you might want to check out our list of the best manual espresso machines as well.

Another great benefit of the La Pavoni Europiccola is its durability. You will find that this machine is built to last, with high-quality materials that are designed to withstand long-term use.

Even cleaning your espresso machine is easy with this model.

And if you like to drink your coffee as soon as you get up, the Europiccola can heat up water and brew espresso in less than 5 minutes.

Overall, the La Pavoni Europiccola entered our list because it offers users complete control over the coffee-making process, it has a durable and high-quality build, and it produces consistently great-tasting coffee.

How To Decide On The Best Prosumer Espresso Machine For You

If you’re a coffee enthusiast and looking for an upgrade from your standard machine, a prosumer espresso machine is the next step.

But with so many options available, how do you choose the one that’s right for you?

Each machine on our list above has the ability to make incredible espresso and more, but finding the perfect fit depends on your unique needs.

To make things a little easier, we have put together this buying guide for you. With a little research, you’ll soon be on your way to making barista-worthy espresso at home.

Automation Type

When it comes to choosing the best prosumer espresso machine for your needs based on the automation type, there are a few key factors to consider.

First and foremost, you need to decide how much control you want to have over the brewing process.

Do you want to be able to adjust every parameter, from the grind size to the water temperature and pressure?

Or do you prefer a machine that takes care of these settings for you automatically, so you can focus on the other aspects of making great espresso, like tamping and milk frothing?

If you’re looking for maximum control, you’ll want to opt for a semi-automatic or manual espresso machine.

These types of machines allow you to adjust the brewing parameters manually, so you can customize your brew to your exact liking.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a machine that takes care of most of the brewing process for you, you may want to consider a fully automatic or super-automatic machine.

These machines use built-in sensors and programming to measure and adjust the brewing parameters automatically, so you don’t have to worry about making adjustments yourself.

Boiler Type

When it comes to shopping for an espresso machine, one of the key factors to consider is the boiler type.

Boilers are responsible for heating the water that is used to brew espresso, and their effectiveness can greatly impact the taste and quality of the final product.

• Single Boiler: A single boiler machine has one boiler that is used for both brewing espresso and steaming milk. This means that you can’t do both at the same time, and there can be a delay between pulling a shot and steaming milk. Single boiler machines are typically less expensive than other types of machines, but they may not be the best choice if you’re looking for speed and efficiency.
• Heat Exchanger: A heat exchanger machine has a single boiler that is used for brewing espresso and a heat exchanger that allows for simultaneous steaming of milk. This means that you can make multiple drinks quickly and efficiently. Heat exchanger machines are a good option for those who want to make both espresso and milk-based drinks.
• Dual Boiler: A dual boiler machine has two separate boilers, one for brewing espresso and one for steaming milk. This means that you can brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously, which is especially useful if you’re making multiple drinks. Dual boiler machines are typically more expensive than single boiler and heat exchanger machines, but they offer the best performance and efficiency.

Another factor to consider when it comes to boiler type is the material that the boiler is made of.

Stainless steel is a popular choice due to its durability and low maintenance requirements, but it can also be more expensive than other materials.

Brass is another common material for espresso machine boilers, as it is highly conductive and helps to ensure consistent heat distribution.

In addition to considering the type and material of the boiler, it’s also important to pay attention to the boiler size.

Larger boilers can hold more water, which can be helpful for those who need to brew multiple espresso shots at once. However, larger boilers can also result in longer wait times for the machine to heat up initially.

If you’re a home barista who only makes a few drinks at a time, a single boiler or heat exchanger machine may be sufficient.

If you’re making drinks for a larger group or want to make both espresso and milk-based drinks, a dual boiler machine may be the best option.

Keep in mind that dual boiler machines are typically more expensive than other types of machines, so it’s important to consider your budget as well.

Pump Type

Among the factors, one of the most significant determinants of the quality of a machine is the pump type.

First, it’s essential to understand what a pump does within an espresso machine.

Essentially, the pump is responsible for pressurizing and pushing water through the coffee grounds. The resulting extract is what produces the rich flavour and crema associated with high-quality espresso.

There are two primary pump types in prosumer espresso machines: vibratory and rotary.

Vibratory pumps are the most common type of pump found in home machines. They’re affordable, compact, and easy to use.

Vibratory pumps work by using an electromagnet to cause a piston to vibrate rapidly, which in turn pressurizes the water.

While vibratory pumps are generally reliable, their vibration can cause additional noise and wear and tear on the machine over time.

Rotary pumps, on the other hand, are typically found in commercial-grade machines or higher-end prosumer models.

These pumps use a rotating chamber and a set of gears to pressurize the water. Because rotary pumps are much quieter than vibratory pumps, they’re ideal for environments where noise is a concern.

Additionally, because they don’t vibrate, they tend to last longer than vibratory pumps.

Although rotary pumps are generally considered superior to vibratory pumps, they do come with a tradeoff.

Since they’re more complex than vibratory pumps, they tend to be more expensive to repair and maintain. They also require more space within the machine, which can raise the cost.

If you’re a home barista who only makes a few drinks at a time, a vibratory pump machine may be sufficient.

If you want a more powerful and durable pump for high-volume use or commercial applications, a rotary pump machine may be the best option.

Group Head

The group head is part of the machine that holds the portafilter and is responsible for ensuring even extraction of the espresso. You might want to consider this feature if you want the best espresso.

There are several types of group heads to choose from, each with its own unique features and benefits.

The first type of group head is the E61 group head, which is commonly found on traditional espresso machines. It is a heat-exchange design that utilizes a large, thermally stable brass or copper group head.

The E61 group head is typically reliable and consistent in terms of temperature and can maintain a stable temperature throughout the brewing process.

Another type of group head is the saturated group head. This design uses a smaller, stationary brass or copper group head and has the benefit of better control over water flow and pressure.

This enables the user to make finer adjustments to the espresso extraction, resulting in a more precise and consistent shot.

Finally, there is a thermoblock group head. A thermoblock group head uses a heating element to quickly heat water as it passes through the group head.

It is often found in lower-end espresso machines. While thermoblock group heads are fast and efficient, they can produce inconsistent shots and have difficulty maintaining temperature stability.

When selecting a prosumer espresso machine based on the group head, it is important to consider your personal preferences and brewing style.

If you value consistency and simplicity, the E61 group head may be the best choice. If you prefer more precise control over your espresso extraction, the saturated group head may be the better option.

Temperature Control

When it comes to picking the right espresso machine, temperature control is arguably one of the most important factors that you need to consider as an espresso enthusiast.

If you’re someone who values the perfect cup of coffee, you’ll want to choose a machine that can heat up to the desired temperature range quickly and maintain that temperature throughout the brewing process.

Therefore, a high-quality temperature control system is essential for brewing consistently delicious espresso shots.

There are various types of temperature control systems that come with prosumer espresso machines.

Some machines come with simple boiler systems that rely on pressure valves to control the internal temperature.

These systems are less sophisticated and less accurate than other systems that use PID controllers, which offer more precise control over the temperature.

Speaking of which, a PID controller is an advanced temperature control system used in a wide range of machines, including most of our picks above.

By the way, PID stands for Proportional-Integral-Derivative, which is a control algorithm used to regulate the temperature of the espresso machine.

PID controllers provide superior temperature stability, and they offer more accuracy and control compared to other systems.

We highly recommend investing in one of our top picks with PID controller if you want the best espresso experience

Another essential feature to consider when choosing a prosumer espresso machine with a temperature control system is the pre-infusion feature.

Pre-infusion is a process that injects water into the coffee grounds before the actual brewing process. This process prepares the coffee grounds by saturating them with water and allowing them to swell and release more flavour.

The pre-infusion procedure also enables the temperature control system to stabilise before the brewing process begins, ensuring optimal brewing conditions.

In conclusion, when deciding which machine to purchase, the temperature control system is a crucial factor that should not be overlooked.

Choosing a machine with a robust temperature control system like the PID controller and pre-infusion feature will help you achieve the perfect espresso shot, every time.

Size and Built Quality

When it comes to finding the best machine for your home or business, it’s important to consider both its size and built quality.

Firstly, size is an important factor to consider.

Prosumer espresso machines are typically larger than regular home machines, so it’s essential to determine how much space you have available in your kitchen.

You’ll want to make sure the machine you choose fits comfortably in your desired location.

Also, keep in mind that larger machines may have a higher capacity for water and beans, which can be beneficial if you’re making multiple drinks at once or have a bigger household.

The built quality of the machine is also crucial in determining its durability and longevity.

Look for machines that are constructed of high-quality materials, such as stainless steel, and have solid components that are built to last.

This will ensure that your machine not only delivers great espresso but also holds up against wear and tear and is less likely to break down over time.

Additionally, a well-built machine will require less maintenance and have fewer issues, which can save you time and money in the long run.

Our #1 Recommendation

And there you have it – our roundup of the 8 best prosumer espresso machines on the market. Are you now ready to elevate your home brewing game?

While each machine has its own unique strengths and features, there was one that stood out above the rest and checked all the boxes from the above: the Rancilio Silvia Pro X.

So, whether you’re a seasoned barista or just starting out on your coffee journey, investing in a Silvia Pro X is sure to take your espresso game to the next level.

In case you find the prosumer machines too expensive, we have also reviewed and ranked the best espresso machines under $1000.

FAQs

What is a prosumer espresso machine?

A Prosumer is a high-end coffee machine that’s designed for home use, combining professional-grade features with convenience and ease of use.

These machines allow you to create espresso shots that are equal in quality to those made by the baristas at your favourite coffee shop.

They’re also incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different types of espresso drinks and milk-based drinks. Also, they are built using high-quality materials and parts.

How does a prosumer espresso machine differ from a consumer-grade or commercial-grade machine?

Consumer-grade espresso machines are typically designed for home use and have limited features and capabilities. Not to mention, they are cheaper.

They may use pressurized portafilters, which make it easier to produce a consistent shot, but don’t offer the same level of control and flexibility as commercial-grade machines.

Commercial-grade espresso machines are designed for high-volume use in coffee shops, restaurants, and other food service establishments.

They are generally more expensive and have more features, such as multiple boilers and group heads, which allow for faster and more efficient brewing.

Prosumers are designed for home baristas who want more control and flexibility than a consumer-grade machine can offer but don’t need the high-volume capabilities of a commercial-grade machine.

Are prosumer espresso machines worth the price tag?

Prosumer machines are definitely worth the investment if you crave a true cafe-quality cup of espresso. And here is why.

These machines offer a level of precision, control and quality that is unmatched by entry-level models.

They typically have larger boilers. In addition, prosumer machines often offer advanced features like programmable shot volumes, temperature control, and even pre-infusion.

How important is temperature control in a prosumer espresso machine?

Temperature control is critical in ANY espresso machine because it directly affects the taste and quality of the espresso shot.

The ideal temperature for brewing espresso is between 195°F and 205°F, and even small variations outside of this range can result in a shot that is sour, bitter, or lacking in flavour.

Prosumer models with temperature control features, such as PID controllers, allow for precise and consistent temperature control, resulting in a more consistent and high-quality espresso shot.