I’m fully aware that lots of my Coffeeness readers are ready to take their home espresso game to the next level. If you’ve outgrown your entry-level machine, this guide to the best prosumer espresso machines is for you.
I’ve compiled a list of awesome machines, all of which are capable of producing the best espresso possible. As a bonus I’ll also give you a few pointers on what to look for in a prosumer espresso machine.
Incidentally, you’ll notice that I’ve linked to Seattle Coffee Gear for most of my picks. That’s because I feel like those guys are the best choice if you’re buying a prosumer machine. Trust me, they really know their stuff.
So, if you’re hankering after the ultimate home barista setup, sit back, relax and let me take you on a journey through the wonderful world of prosumer espresso machines!
Table of Contents
Best Prosumer Espresso Machines at a Glance
Here’s a quick look at the best prosumer espresso machines we’ll be looking at today:
Programmable volumetric control
Commercial-grade components
Huge boiler
Intuitive user interface
Programmable settings
Superb value
What Is a Prosumer Espresso Machine?
A prosumer espresso machine is a high-end home appliance that represents a big step up in quality from an appliance-grade model. In case you haven’t already figured it out, the word “prosumer” is a mashup of “professional” and “consumer.” Essentially, prosumer machines use components commonly found in commercial espresso machines, while still being aimed toward the home espresso market.
I guess you could say switching from an appliance-grade machine to a prosumer model would be like upgrading from coach to business class. In short, a prosumer espresso machine will allow you to produce cafe-quality espresso and milk foam.
Rather than relying on a single boiler or thermoblock, a prosumer machine often gets its super powers from dual boilers or a heat exchanger boiler. This means you’ll be able to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously. Plus, you’ll be guaranteed better performance and temperature stability, which means you’ll be able to brew back-to-back shots with more consistency.
Sounds pretty great, right? Well, if you’re serious about honing your espresso skills, a prosumer espresso machine is the way to go. However, you’ll need to spend a decent chunk of cash to get into one of these machines. Not only that, without a burr coffee grinder that’s good enough for espresso, you might as well forget it.
The 10 Best Prosumer Espresso Machines
Let’s dive right into my prosumer espresso machine reviews. Oh, and I’m sticking to the rule I set for myself in my home espresso machine guide. Namely, that there has to be some kind of price ceiling involved.
So, none of the best prosumer espresso machines on my list cost more than $3,000. Anything more than that is just silly money, and out of the range of most people.
Rancilio Silvia Pro X: Overall Best Prosumer Espresso Machine
Next level Silvia
Rancilio Silvia Pro X
All the upgrades under the sun
Built like a tank
Looks great
Tons of adjustable settings
Dual boilers
Dual PID controllers
Very expensive
| Rancilio Silvia Pro X | |
| Manufacturer | Rancilio |
|---|---|
| Model number | Pro X |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Black, Pink, Stainless Steel, White |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Text display with buttons |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 67.6 fl oz / 2.0 l |
| Number of boilers | 2 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 4.0 in / 10.2 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 1 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1000 W |
| Weight | 44.1 lb / 20.0 kg |
| Dimensions | 15.3 x 10.0 x 16.5 in |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Notes | Included Accessories: User manual, tamper, cleaning brush, 2 x filter baskets, cleaning tablets, backflushing disc, water filter |
| Current price on Amazon | $2,195.00 |
| All specifications | |
The original Rancilio Silvia has to be one of my all time favorite espresso machines. Still, getting to grips with it involves a lot of time and patience.
Enter the Rancilio Silvia Pro X, which takes the cult classic to new heights. Sure, you’ll have to shell out a whopping $1,990.00 for the Pro X model, but what you get is truly impressive.
For starters, this is a dual boiler machine, so you can pull a shot and steam milk at the same time. What’s more, there are dual PID controllers for maintaining accurate temperature. These can be adjusted to-the-degree via a digital display. Incidentally, the display doubles as a shot timer which is a nice touch.
The Rancilio Silvia Pro X also features a pressure gauge, which I always like to see. Best of all, Rancilio has equipped the Silvia Pro X with a pre-infusion function that can be switched on or off. To round things out, the Rancilio Silvia Pro X has a wake up function, so you can program the thing to start heating at a predetermined time. I can see that being very convenient, and I’m definitely thinking of upgrading to this version!
See Also: Rancilio Pro X Review
Gaggia Classic Pro: Best Budget Prosumer Espresso Machine
Italian Classic
Gaggia Classic Pro
Still going strong
Extremely reliable
Durable construction
Easy to use
Professional steam wand
Rather heavy
Awkward water tank design
| Gaggia Classic Pro | |
| Manufacturer | Gaggia |
|---|---|
| Model number | RI9380/46 |
| Product category | Hybrid espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Black, Chrome, White |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 71.0 fl oz / 2.1 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 3.3 in / 8.4 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 1 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | No |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1450 W |
| Weight | 18.7 lb / 8.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 14.2 x 9.5 x 8.0 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: Tamper, Coffee scoop, 4 x Filter baskets, Instruction manual. |
| Current price on Amazon | $452.96 |
| All specifications | |
The enduring Gaggia Classic Pro is a no-frills prosumer espresso machine that’s been captivating home baristas since the 90s.
If you’re on a tight budget and still want the freedom to make café-quality espresso in your own kitchen, the Gaggia Classic Pro could be the machine for you. After all, you’ll only have to shell out $452.96 for the Classic Pro, making it an absolute steal for what you get.
Sure, the machine only comes with a flimsy plastic tamper and you’ll need to invest in a good espresso grinder. But the Classic Pro comes with a powerful boiler, commercial steam wand and a solid 58mm portafilter.
When I tested the Classic Pro, I was a little frustrated at first. But once I got the hang of the machine, I was able to pull some excellent shots of espresso. And I was mighty impressed by the amount of steam power on offer. Overall, I felt like the machine represents great value for money.
The Gaggia Classic Pro is not without its quirks, but it has developed a devoted following. Finally, you’re able to pick up a variety of after-market mods if you want to turn your Classic Pro into a force to be reckoned with.
See Also: Gaggia Classic Pro Review
Lelit Mara X: Compact Pro Espresso Machine for Home
Prosumer Powerhouse
Lelit Mara X
This machine has it all
Gorgeous to behold
Rugged build
Tons of adjustable settings
Makes superb espresso
Professional-grade components
Rather expensive
| Lelit Mara X | |
| Manufacturer | Lelit |
|---|---|
| Model number | PL62X |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Black, Brushed Stainless Steel, White |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | 1 |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 84.5 fl oz / 2.5 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 4.5 in / 11.4 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 1 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1250 W |
| Weight | 40.5 lb / 18.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 13.8 x 8.7 x 16.3 in |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Notes | Included Accessories: User manual, 2 x filter baskets, blind basket, tamper, cup riser, coffee scoop, water filter, group brush, cleaning kit |
| Current price on Amazon | BUY NOW ON AMAZON |
| All specifications | |
Italian manufacturer Lelit is well-known for producing a premium range of fantastic prosumer espresso machines and the Lelit Mara X is no exception.
Costing around $1,700.00 at Seattle Coffee Gear, this compact and elegant espresso machine is available in a range of stylish colors. I absolutely love the Mara X’s durable stainless steel construction and clean lines – this baby sure is easy on the eyes!
As for its performance, the Lelit Mara X really delivers. The manufacturer has included a ton of thoughtful features, including adjustable temperature settings, automatic pre-infusion and a dual manometer that displays both pump and steam pressure.
What’s more, Lelit has included a sophisticated probe system that ensures temperature stability – something usually missing from heat exchanger machines. Oh, and there’s a PID controller on board, just for good measure.
Finally, the Lelit Mara X features two brew modes, one that prioritizes steam power and another for pulling back-to-back shots without cooling flushes. What can I say? This is a superb little espresso machine that’ll please newbies and experts alike.
See Also: Lelit Mara X Review
Nuova Simonelli Oscar II: User-Friendly Prosumer Espresso Machine
Affordable prosumer machine
Nuova Simonelli Oscar II
Sleek and streamlined
Gorgeous design
High-quality build
Easy to use
Heat exchanger boiler
Great value
Limited adjustable settings
| Nuova Simonelli Oscar II | |
| Manufacturer | Nuova |
|---|---|
| Model number | Oscar II |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel with plastic parts |
| Color options | Black, Red |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | 2 |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 84.5 fl oz / 2.5 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 9 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 4.0 in / 10.2 cm |
| Grinder | |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 0 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1200 W |
| Weight | 30.8 lb / 14.0 kg |
| Dimensions | 15.8 x 11.8 x 16.8 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: Plastic tamper, plastic coffee scoop, 2 x filter baskets, user manual |
| Current price on Amazon | $1,495.00 |
| All specifications | |
Costing just $1,495.00, the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II is one of the most affordable options on this best prosumer espresso machines list.
Personally, I just love how this machine looks, though I imagine not everyone will love its retro futuristic vibe. Still, what’s important is that the shiny stainless steel housing makes this a durable workhorse.
The Oscar II is equipped with a 68 ounce (2 liter) heat exchanger boiler, and eschews the famous E61 in favor of a thermosiphon group head. Fortunately, this style is just as effective at maintaining consistent temperature.
Interestingly, the Oscar II uses timed dosing, which is programmed using buttons on the control panel. Frustratingly, there’s no manual mode, though an easy workaround is just to set the time to 60 seconds and stop the shot manually.
Although this Nuova Simonelli beauty has no hot water outlet, the steam wand is powerful and effective. I happen to love the ergonomic steam lever, which makes operating the frothing wand very straightforward.
See Also: Nuova Simonelli Oscar II Review
Flair 58 Plus 2: Best Home Espresso Machine for Baristas
A true masterpiece
Flair 58 Plus 2
Professional-grade manual espresso machine
58mm portafilter
Electric heating element
Huge lever arm
Stunning design
Rather expensive
| Flair 58 Plus 2 | |
| Manufacturer | Flair Espresso |
|---|---|
| Model number | 05116559B |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Aluminum |
| Color options | Black |
| Milk frother | None |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 3.4 fl oz / 0.1 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 10 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 5.0 in / 12.7 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 1 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | No |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 96 W |
| Weight | 12.0 lb / 5.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 11.0 x 7.5 x 13.5 in |
| Warranty | 5 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: User manual, 3 x filter baskets, shot mirror, pressure gauge, tamper, puck screen, drip tray |
| Current price on Amazon | BUY NOW ON AMAZON |
| All specifications | |
I recently tested the Flair 58 Plus 2, and I’m happy to report that this is easily the best manual espresso maker I’ve ever used.
Costing $685.00, the latest iteration of the Flair 58 is far from cheap. And unlike its more approachable siblings, there’s a pretty steep learning curve with this prosumer espresso machine. Still, once you get the hang of the Flair 58 Plus 2, you’ll be rewarded with an espresso-making experience like no other.
Featuring a beautiful design and wooden accents, the Flair 58 Plus 2 is really premium. And the machine doesn’t just come with professional-grade components like a 58mm portafilter and integrated pressure gauge– it’s also equipped with a three-stage heater for the brew chamber.
I absolutely love how the Flair 58 gives you the tools for manual pressure profiling while you’re pulling a shot. I felt like I had ultimate control over what happened during the extraction process. Trust me, if you’re an espresso aficionado, this manual espresso maker will lead you all the way down the rabbit hole!
See Also: Flair 58 Review
La Pavoni Professional: Elegant Manual Espresso Machine
A Great Way to Up Your Espresso Game
La Pavoni Professional
A beautiful manual-lever espresso machine
Heats up in under 10 minutes
Sleek design
Small footprint
Comes with a boiler and pressure gauge
Must cool down before water can be refilled
May overheat after some time
| La Pavoni Professional | |
| Manufacturer | La Pavoni |
|---|---|
| Model number | PC-16 |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Chrome |
| Milk frother | Integrated carafe and steam wand |
| User interface | None |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 51 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 37.2 fl oz / 1.1 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 9 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 3.0 in / 7.6 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 1 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1000 W |
| Weight | 14.3 lb / 6.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 12.0 x 7.0 x 11.0 in |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Notes | Included Accessories: User manual, tamper, coffee scoop, 2 x filter baskets |
| Current price on Amazon | $716.09 |
| All specifications | |
Let’s just say that the La Pavoni PC-16 isn’t for everyone. However, if you’re the type of home barista who relishes a challenge, this prosumer espresso machine might be for you. And let’s not gloss over the fact that the La Pavoni Professional is a gorgeous work of art; if anything is going to impress your friends it’s this manual lever machine.
Looks aside, the La Pavoni Professional is capable of producing sublime espresso. Still, you’ll need to invest a lot of time learning the intricacies of how different factors affect your shot’s outcome. What’s more, you’ll have to invest $716.09 for the privilege.
Fortunately, the pressure gauge really helps when it comes to dialing in. Plus, the 38 ounce (1.1 liter) boiler means you’ll have plenty of room to maneuver. With that said, the La Pavoni Professional tends to overheat quickly, so it’s not ideal for pumping out coffee for a crowd.
During my testing of the La Pavoni I was impressed by the steam power this thing can generate. The steam wand’s three-hole tip is ideal for creating microfoam, although there’s an automatic frother attachment if you need it.
Check Out: La Pavoni Professional Review
Diletta Bello: Versatile Commercial-Style Espresso Machine for Home Use
absolutely fabulous!
Diletta Bello
Dazzling in every way
Heat exchanger boiler
Powerful steam wand
Accurate pressure gauge
Elegant design
Suitable for beginners and experts
No milk pitcher included
| Diletta Bello | |
| Manufacturer | Diletta |
|---|---|
| Model number | Bello |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Stainless Steel |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 101.4 fl oz / 3.0 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 4.0 in / 10.2 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 0 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1500 W |
| Weight | 50.0 lb / 22.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 14.5 x 11.0 x 17.8 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: 3 x filter baskets, Single portafilter, Double portafilter, Group brush, Tamper, User manual. |
| Current price on Amazon | $1,749.00 |
| All specifications | |
A relatively new player in the prosumer espresso machine sector, Diletta is a collaboration between Seattle Coffee Gear and Milan-based Quick Mill. In my opinion, $1,749.00 is a steal for the Diletta Bello.
I mean, each one of these beautiful espresso machines is hand-made in Italy, using high-grade commercial components. Heck, the stainless steel boiler is even wrapped in a blanket! Speaking of the boiler, this is a heat exchanger machine with an E61 group head. That means you can brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously. Plus, you’ll have consistent temperature the whole time thanks to the pressurestat.
Although the Diletta Bello’s prominent pressure gauge enhances the machine’s overall vibe, it’s also very useful. You can monitor pressure in both the boiler and at the group head, making it easier to dial in your shots.
As for steaming milk, you’ve got oodles of pressure on board for whipping up a cappuccino or latte macchiato. Incidentally, both the steam wand and hot water outlet are double wall insulated, so you won’t burn your fingers. That’s a win!
See Also: Diletta Bello Review
Rocket Appartamento: Retro Pro Espresso Machine for Home
gorgeous prosumer machine
Rocket Appartamento
It doesn’t get much better than this
Beautiful design
Commercial-grade components
Heat exchanger boiler
Makes superb espresso
Compact footprint
Might seem intimidating
Small drip tray
| Rocket Appartamento | |
| Manufacturer | Rocket Espresso |
|---|---|
| Model number | Appartamento |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Black, Copper, Red, White |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 84.5 fl oz / 2.5 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 3.5 in / 8.9 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 0 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1200 W |
| Weight | 44.0 lb / 20.0 kg |
| Dimensions | 14.2 x 10.8 x 16.7 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: Instruction manual, Tamper, 2 x portafilters, Cleaning brush, Cleaning tablets. |
| Current price on Amazon | $2,150.00 |
| All specifications | |
If you feel like the Rocket Appartamento bears more than a passing resemblance to the aforementioned Diletta Bello, you’re not alone. I mean, at $1,750.00, the Appartamento even has an almost identical price tag.
Listen, I’m not sure which came first, but I’m just glad we get to choose between two superb machines. Because, like the Bello, the Rocket Appartamento is superb.
Another machine with a heat exchanger boiler and an E61 group head, the Appartamento is capable of producing outstanding espresso and milk foam. What’s more, this machine is quite compact, so you won’t have to redesign your kitchen around it.
Still, the Rocket Appartamento might make everything else in your kitchen look a little tired. After all, this is a stunning machine – its retro-industrial vibe and highly polished surfaces really float my boat!
See Also: Rocket Appartamento Review
Nuova Simonelli Musica: Premium Prosumer Espresso Machine
An outstanding espresso machine
Nuova Simonelli Musica
As good as it gets
High-quality build
Beautiful design
Volumetric programming
Prosumer components
Powerful steam wand
Suitable for commercial settings
Very pricey
| Nuova Simonelli Musica | |
| Manufacturer | Nuova |
|---|---|
| Model number | Musica |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Silver |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | 2 |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 101.4 fl oz / 3.0 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 9 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 3.5 in / 8.9 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 0 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1200 W |
| Weight | 44.1 lb / 20.0 kg |
| Dimensions | 16.9 x 12.6 x 15.8 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: Plastic tamper, plastic coffee scoop, 2 x filter baskets, user manual |
| Current price on Amazon | $3,250.00 |
| All specifications | |
Although similar in many ways to the Oscar II, the Nuova Simonelli Musica represents a step up in terms of features and functionality. With that said, you’ll have to shell out a not inconsiderable $3,300.00 for this espresso machine.
The Musica is another heat exchanger espresso machine with a thermosiphon group head. Overall, the machine does a great job of maintaining temperature stability, although you’ll need to get used to performing cooling flushes. Still, there isn’t much of a learning curve with this prosumer espresso machine.
Aside from sophisticated programmable volumetric controls, the Musica features Nuova Simonelli’s awesome soft pre infusion. This really helps even out your extraction, regardless of tamping inconsistencies. It’s great to see that the manufacturer has included a dedicated hot water outlet, as well as a powerful and ergonomic steam wand.
See Also: Nuova Simonelli Musica Review
Fellow Espresso Series 1: Affordable Prosumer Espresso Machine
Brand new machine
Fellow Espresso Series 1
There’s a lot to get excited about!
High-quality design & materials
Premium accessories
Great value
Tons of adjustable settings
Suitable for all skill levels
Unnecessary drink menu
| Fellow Espresso Series 1 | |
| Manufacturer | Fellow |
|---|---|
| Model number | Series 1 |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Black, Cherry Red, Malted Chocolate, Marine Blue |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Text display with buttons |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 67.6 fl oz / 2.0 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 4.0 in / 10.2 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 1 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | No |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1700 W |
| Weight | 21.7 lb / 9.8 kg |
| Dimensions | 11.0 x 12.4 x 17.2 in |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: User manual, 2 x filter baskets, shot splitter attachment, milk pitcher, tamper, cleaning supplies |
| Current price on Amazon | BUY NOW ON AMAZON |
| All specifications | |
Having spent time putting the Fellow Espresso Series 1 through its paces, I can tell you that this extraordinary model is everything I’d ever want from a prosumer espresso machine. Costing an entirely reasonable $1,499.95, the Espresso Series 1 is jam-packed with awesome features, and it’ll appeal to both beginners and seasoned pros.
For starters, the machine has an innovative boiler system and heated group head, so thermal stability is a non-issue. What’s more, the Fellow Espresso Series 1 offers a superb amount of control via its digital user interface and complimentary app. Seriously, you’re able to tweak just about any brewing parameter you can think of and create your own recipes. You can also mess around with pressure profiling, which is all the rage right now.
As you might expect, this Fellow espresso machine is fitted with a wonderful manual steam wand that really packs a punch. And of course, you’ll get a commercial 58mm portafilter as well as a stainless steel milk pitcher and a premium tamper.
See Also: Fellow Espresso Machine Review
How to Choose a Professional Espresso Machine for Home Use
Now that you know what a prosumer espresso machine is, the questions about what to look for are likely coming thick and fast. Well, fear not – I’m out ahead of you! Let’s take a gander at a few things to consider as you start to narrow down your search.
Boiler
For the most part, the best prosumer espresso machines are equipped with either a heat exchanger or dual boilers. By the way, you’re going to get excellent results with either option.
A heat exchanger boiler features a small isolated section inside that constantly circulates water out and around the group head. This cools the water to the right temperature for brewing. Meanwhile, the rest of the boiler’s water is kept at the right temperature for steaming milk.
Although that means you can brew and steam at the same time, heat exchangers do have disadvantages. The biggest downside is that the overall temperature will increase over time. Still, a simple cooling flush will take care of that issue.
Having dual boilers is your best bet. Seeing as there are dedicated boilers for steam and brewing, you’ll never have to perform a cooling flush. Plus, you can often control the temperature of each boiler independently. Still, dual boiler espresso machines are usually much more expensive.
PID vs Pressurestat
You may have heard of PID controllers – they’re actually quite common on appliance-grade machines. Incidentally, PID stands for Proportional Integral Derivative. There. Now you know. Anyway, a PID controller is a super accurate way of adjusting and maintaining temperature, although it can make an espresso machine more expensive.
On the other hand, a pressurestat is a simpler, more old school device that turns off the heating element once it reaches a certain threshold. When the temperature drops, the pressurestat kicks the element back on. As you might imagine, this can lead to some inconsistencies, although an E61 group head will smooth these out.
Group Head
Speaking of the E61 group head, let’s take a moment to appreciate its ingenious design. There’s a reason this type of exposed group head is so popular in heat exchanger and dual boiler espresso machines. In fact, it’s kind of the gold standard.
Thanks to its chrome plated brass construction and unique design, pressure builds up gradually, allowing for natural pre infusion. Plus, temperature inside remains incredibly stable because water is constantly flowing between the group head and boiler.
Other group heads can work just as well, with a shorter heating time. Still, the E61 is kind of where it’s at in my opinion!
Other Considerations
While I’ve just covered the main things to look for in a prosumer espresso machine, there are a few other considerations to take into account.
Budget: As I mentioned at the start of this guide, a prosumer espresso machine is going to involve a substantial financial outlay. Plus, if you’re going to do it, you might as well do it right. That means investing in a good grinder, espresso tamper, espresso knock box … the list goes on!
Pump: Prosumer espresso machines come equipped with either a vibration or rotary pump. While both are effective, a rotary pump is quieter and more powerful. Still, you’ll usually only find this kind of pump on really expensive espresso machines.
Preheat Time: If you’re set on a machine with an E61 group head, you’ll need to be prepared for prolonged heating times. I’m talking 20 minutes or more. On the flip side, a machine with a saturated group head – essentially an extension of the boiler – will be ready to go in less than 10 minutes.
Design: Personally, I love espresso machines with exposed group heads, fancy knobs and tons of polished metal. Still, that look isn’t for everyone. However, if clean lines and a more understated vibe are what you’re after, you shouldn’t have a hard time finding your dream machine.
Features: Just because an espresso machine is fully loaded with fancy functions doesn’t mean you need them. For example, ask yourself whether you’ll really need a shot timer and volumetric control. Maybe you’d be fine with your phone’s timer function and stopping the shot manually.
Decision Time: Best Professional Home Espresso Machine
As we’ve seen, when it comes to choosing the best prosumer espresso machine, there are quite a few factors to bear in mind. At the end of the day, though, you really can’t go wrong with any of the prosumer machines I’ve discussed.
Depending on your budget and design preferences, you should be able to find a machine that’ll help you to up your espresso game in a big way. Who knows? Maybe there’s a barista championship medal in your future!
I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best prosumer espresso machines. Is there a machine you feel should be included? I look forward to your comments!
