What is the best commercial espresso machine?
The history of espresso
The history of espresso dates back to the end of the 19th century – 1884 to be precise. It was at this year that Angelo Moriondo invented the steam-driven coffee making device, thus introducing the world to the magnificence of espresso’s delicious flavor. However, there’s a dispute among the historians – Ian Bersten (a famous inventor of various coffee brewers) have claimed that he was the first person to discover the device which Moriondo patented.
Anyhow, this was only the beginning, as various inventors struggled hard to improve the overall design of the first espresso coffee brewers. Among the most distinguished people who contributed to the invention of espresso we could name:
- Angelo Moriondo – Italian inventor;
- Ian Bersten – unknown;
- Luigi Bezzera – Italy, Milan, Inventor;
- Desiderio Pavoni – Italian inventor, founder of La Pavoni;
- Lino Meiorin – American inventor, one of the main contributors to the invention of Latte;
There was a long dispute when it came to the origins of espresso (and Latte, its counterpart), but the answer is quite obvious – Espresso is an Italian invention, whereas the Latte is American. This dispute started because “Latte” doesn’t quite “sound” American.
How to make an espresso?
Essentially, espresso is made by adding a speck of very hot water (just before it reaches a boiling point) under the pressure right through the finely ground beans. Espresso is much thicker when compared to regular coffee as it has a high concentration of dissolved solids (it also has a cream on top). The main reason why it’s served in such small quantities is because it has a large concentration of caffeine.
What is the best commercial espresso machine? Check these top models
Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine
Summary:
One of the finest Breville products, the BES870XL is an extra-large espresso machine which has an enormous storage capacity, a great motor, the ravishing outward appearance, and a durable design. However, it costs quite a lot, so it might not best-suited for home usage.
Detailed description of the product:
Breville is one of the prominent leaders in the coffee-maker industry, and they earned their name with the products such as this. The BES870XL Barista Express Espresso machine is beautiful and durable, and it’s built with a very straightforward design. You could easily monitor the activity of the 15-Bar pump with the gauge meter, and all of the other features are thoroughly explained in the manual.
Features:
This super automatic espresso machine comes supplied with a 15-Bar pump & 1600 watts of power in the heating system. The purge function allows you to adjust the temperature of the water after the steaming process so that the yield has optimal temperature while it’s extracted.
The stainless-steel design of the conical grinder is paired with 0.5-pound bean hopper, and the water tank can fit up to two liters of water.
Pros:
- 15-Bar pump & a great heating system – This super automatic espresso machine is supplied with a high-quality Italian pump & the heating system of 1600 watts;
- The purge function – with this feature, you could easily adjust the temperature of the water after the steaming process in order to reach optimal temperature of extracted yield;
- The stainless-steel construction of the conical grinder – it’s extremely durable, yet very beautiful. It is also paired with a 0.5-pound bean hopper;
- The great storage capacity – Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso machine can hold up to two liters of water (67 ounces);
The potential Flaws:
- First of all, this espresso machine is very expensive – it’s not too affordable, and definitely not for people who’re on a budget;
- Quite heavy – this espresso machine weighs 23 pounds. It’s not too much, but it’s quite heavy for an espresso machine;
Value for the price:
Here’s the deal – you could find a cheaper espresso machine, and, maybe you could even find a better coffee maker in the price range. However, it’s very disputable whether or not you could find a machine that’s as reliable as Breville Barista Express coffee maker. Now, it does cost quite a lot, but can you actually put a price on reliability? Great value for the price.
The final verdict:
Taking all things into consideration, this is a very good coffee maker, actually. Now, if you could only look past the price, you might be looking at the best coffee maker in the price point category. Great features, a beautiful design – what more could anyone possibly want?
Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine with Iron Frame and Stainless Steel Side Panels
Summary:
You might have heard about Rancilio before – their famous Rancilio HSD-ROC-SD Rocky Espresso Coffee grinder was one of the best-sellers in the past couple of years. This brand might not be as famous as De’Longhi and Breville, but their products can compare to the best without a problem. Now, Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine is a great coffee maker, so let’s see what it can offer you.
Detailed description of the product:
First of all, Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine has a design that makes it both handy and unique – it comes supplied with the ergonomic filter handle that’s practically their trademark feature. Rancilio are famous for equipping their products with these handles as they are exceptionally easy to use and feel natural to the touch.
Secondly, the commercial grade head for exquisite heat retention and stability is supplied – it may look ordinary to you, but there’s a lot more to it than just looks. The articulating steam offers a full range of professional steaming mechanism – you could specify the intensity and speed with the steaming knob controls.
Features:
Besides the outstanding features (such as the ergonomic filter handle and the commercial grade head), this espresso coffee brewing machine is supplied with a stainless-steel design which makes it very durable. It’s also outfitted with the optional pod & capsule adaptor in case yours doesn’t fit.
Pros:
- High-quality materials – stainless-steel design and high-quality materials were implemented in the manufacturing process of Rancilio Silvia Espresso machine;
- Ergonomically designed filter handle – a trademark Rancilio feature which is extremely handy and feels very natural to the touch;
- Commercial grade head – This feature allows for the ultimate heat retention and stability;
- Articulating steam mechanism – a full range motion & professional steaming controls allow you to specify the intensity and speed of the steaming process;
- Classic design – Not too shabby, this design may look pretty plain and straightforward for an espresso machine, but it’s highly durable, practical, compact, and it doesn’t take up much of your storage or counter space;
- Optional pod & capsule adaptor – These features are supplied in case that your capsules (or pods) don’t fit in this espresso machine;
The potential Flaws:
- The price might be an overkill – even if we take into consideration all of the amazing features this super automatic espresso machine comes supplied with, the price is still quite steep;
- Best for coffee shops – most people would shy away from paying so much for a coffee machine;
- Not the most versatile of products – this coffee brewing machine allows you to make excellent coffee. However, it doesn’t have all the features that most products in the price range can offer (multiple coffee tastes, styles, other options);
Value for the price:
Rancilio Silvia Espresso machine is definitely worth the cash, but here’s the deal – you won’t like the price. There are some exceptional features that are supplied to this product (ergonomically designed filter handle, commercial grade head, articulating steam mechanism), but it’s still too expensive for most people’s budget. Anyhow, if you don’t mind the price, it’s an excellent product with a great value for the cash.
The final verdict:
Our unbiased opinion would declare this coffee machine as one of the best home espresso machine models on the market. Take away the enormous amount of cash that you need to buy it, and you will get a great coffee brewer.
Capresso 118.05 EC PRO Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
Summary:
Now, we’re looking at one of the best home espresso machine models on the market – it’s portable, lightweight, it has an affordable price, and the manifold of versatile functions are bound to prove useful to you. The only problem you could have with this machine is that it looks quite plain.
Detailed description of the product:
First of all, Capresso 118.05 is capable of brewing up to 2 espressos in a single batch. This feature is not unique, but it is definitely handy. You could make a coffee for your significant other and yourself in no time. It features an advanced boiler with unquestionable reliability, but the thing you might like the most is the price – it’s one of the cheapest and the best home espresso machine models that money can buy.
Features:
Capresso 118.05 EC PRO Espresso and Cappuccino machine includes 2 espresso filters. One is for convenience and the other for control. As we’ve mentioned earlier, it’s capable of brewing two espressos in a single batch. Additionally it comes supplied with an advanced boiler which is capable of maintaining hot temperatures for prolonged periods of time.
Pros:
- The set comes supplied with 2 espresso filters – you could use one for convenient purposes and the other for increased control;
- Capable of brewing two espressos in a single batch – a great feature for any household;
- Advanced boiler – this boiler is able to maintain hot water for increased periods of time;
- A great price – Capresso 118.05 EC PRO Espresso and Cappuccino machine is one of the most affordable cappuccino machines on the market;
The potential Flaws:
- This coffee brewer lacks versatility – there are not many settings you could choose from;
- An average design – satisfactory durability and a plain outward appearance;
Value for the price:
You could hardly do better for this price, but here’s the breaker – this coffee brewer is not perfect. The price alone is what makes it so good, else it would’ve been an average espresso machine with a feature of two.
The final verdict:
Good, but not too great, frankly. This espresso machine boasts a great value because of the bargain price and the ability to brew two espressos in a single batch. Other features are quite standard and plain. Anyhow, great product overall.
DeLonghi ESAM3300 Magnifica Super-Automatic Espresso/Coffee Machine
Summary:
People trust De’Longhi because they provide the best-quality products. However, their coffee and espresso machines are quite expensive, but extremely reliable. Such is the case with De’Longhi ESAM3300 Magnifica Super-Automatic espresso machine.
Detailed description of the product:
De’Longhi ESAM3300 Magnifica Super-Automatic Espresso machine is great, but very expensive. It has an amazing set of features, it’s highly durable, very reliable, and there are only a few apparent flaws that get in its way of being perfect.
Features:
This just may be the best home espresso machine in this brand’s catalog. It features the patented cappuccino system, a simple rotary control panel, it grinds the coffee beans instantly with Direct-To-Brew system, and it features the professional-quality low-pitch grinder with the adjustable grind settings.
Pros:
- Cappuccino System frother – this feature allows you to froth and mix the steam & milk, creating a rich froth as a result;
- Easy-to-use rotary control panel – Various programmable settings are supplied to the control panel;
- Direct-To-Brew system – with as much as a push of a button you can grind the coffee beans instantly. This feature allows you to create espressos of highest quality;
- Professional quality low-pitch grinder – this feature comes supplied with a manifold of grind settings;
The potential Flaws:
- This coffee machine requires your attention – if you don’t maintain and clean it regularly, the motor might malfunction;
Value for the price:
It’s already clear that most high-quality espresso machines come at a high price, but De’Longhi’s ESAM3300 Magnifica Super-Automatic espresso machine has a different story. It’s not expensive at all if you take into account all of the exquisite features it comes supplied with.
The final verdict:
Now, we can’t just say that this espresso machine is perfect, but it’s definitely close. There are some features that make this coffee brewer unique, but there are some flaws (the motor of questionable durability, for example) as well. Anyhow, it’s a great coffee machine overall.
La Pavani PPG-16 Professional 16-Cup Espresso Machine, Brass
Summary:
A beautiful, high-performance espresso machine, La Pavoni’s PPG-16 is one of the best home espresso machine models, but it’s also the most expensive one (out of the ones we mentioned in our espresso machine reviews).
Detailed description of the product:
The first thing you will notice about this espresso/coffee machine is the design. The brass design feels like as if this machine was sparkled with pure gold, but don’t think that’s just for show. La Pavoni’s PPG-16 is a professional-grade espresso machine that’s capable of delivering rich-flavor coffee.
Features:
This espresso machine is equipped with nothing but the highest-quality features. The lever-model design makes it beautiful and easy to use, you can easily store up to 38 ounces of water in the solid-brass boiler. The steam-pressure piston allows you to get your coffee fast and to make cappuccinos & lattes.
Pros:
- The exquisite design – A gold/brass design is sure to capture the attention of everyone who’s gaze meets this espresso machine;
- Lever-model coffee brewer – this espresso machine is able to make up to sixteen cups of the finest espresso;
- A solid-brass boiler – you could store up to 38 ounces of water in this boiler, and it also features a fast heat-up, and the internal thermostat;
- Steam-pressure piston – get your coffee in an instant. The dual frothing system allows you to make both cappuccinos & lattes;
- Rosewood handles – everything about this espresso machine is exquisite, including the handles;
The potential Flaws:
- A ridiculously steep price – La Pavoni’s PPG-16 costs thrice as much as the next high-quality espresso machine;
- Some features are unnecessary – the rosewood handles augment the overly beautiful design, but you could easily do without them;
Value for the price:
It’s very hard to determine the actual value for the price of this model. Now, La Pavoni’s PPG-16 is very beautiful, it’s performance is undisputable, and the features it comes supplied with are unique and exquisite. However, the price is something only a few could afford. Moderate value for the price.
The final verdict:
This is not the most cost-effective espresso machine, but it sure is one of the best-looking ones. The brass design and the lever-model make this machine look ravishing while retaining a high level of performance, but it costs way too much for a coffee brewer. Anyhow, those who can afford it should be more than satisfied.
Gaggia 14101 Classic Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel
Summary:
Gaggia may not be too popular in the coffee brewer’s industry, but their products are not to be underestimated. Gaggia’s 14101 Classic Espresso machine is equally capable as most of the products we mentioned, and it has a more affordable price.
Detailed description of the product:
Great, compact design and easy-to-use features are, perhaps, all the things you need to know about Gaggia’s 14101. It’s very affordable, it’s compact, and it has a durable construction. Perfect for home usage and coffee shops.
Features:
The 72-ounce water reservoir and the stainless-steel housing make this product one of the best automatic espresso machine models. A great storage space and a durable construction are a must when it comes to coffee brewers. The 17.5-Bar pump and the high-voltage boiler features provide excellent heat retention while the single & double-shot filter baskets make the use of this machine convenient.
Pros:
- An affordable price – Gaggia’s 14101 is more affordable than most high-quality espresso machines;
- Stainless-steel housing – a highly durable construction is one of the best features of this coffee brewer;
- 17.5-bar Pump & high-voltage boiler – excellent heat retention and insulation properties;
The potential Flaws:
- The lack of outstanding features makes this machine quite average when compared to other we mentioned in our espresso machine reviews;
Value for the price:
It’s more affordable than most high-quality coffee brewers, and it’s capable of delivering a rich-flavor coffee. These qualities make Gaggia’s 14101 Classic Espresso machine pretty valuable for the cash.
The final verdict:
It’s a great thing to have it at home, but would it be smart to use this machine in your coffee shop? It’s highly unlikely, but since we’re interested in commercial grade espresso machines, this might be your best bet of acquiring one. Great value, great price.
Nespresso A+GCA1 VertuoLine Coffee and Espresso Maker with Aeroccino Plus Milk Frother
Summary:
Nespresso’s products are great and affordable, and A+GCA1 VertuoLine espresso maker is a perfect example of that. It’s nice, small, and cheap, it won’t take up much of your storage space, and it’s conveniently easy to use.
Detailed description of the product:
One of the things that could interest you the most about Nespresso’s A+GCA1 VertuoLine Espresso maker is the cheap price. Don’t let it fool you – it’s a small powerhouse of high-performance.
Features:
This espresso machine is comprised of Aeroccino milk forther, the patented centrifusion technology, a capsule cognition tech, and easy insert points for capsules. It also features a compact and durable design that looks very modern.
Pros:
- Convenient design – small, compact, and beautiful. What more could you wish for?
- Aeroccino milk frother – prepare your milk froth with a simple push of a button;
- Capsule recognition tech – specific parametric brewing was made possible by this feature;
The potential Flaws:
- Lack of versatility when it comes to capsules – you could only use Nespresso’s VertuoLine capsules;
Value for the price:
It’s decently affordable and pretty powerful for the cash. Great features and a solid overall performance.
The final verdict:
Nespresso’s VertuoLine is cheap, strong, and sturdy. It’s functions and settings are pretty obvious and plain so you won’t need much time figuring them out on your own. It’s a great espresso machine to have at home, but it could decorate your coffee shop if you’re an owner.
KRUPS EA8250 Espressia Super Automatic Espresso Machine Coffee Maker with built-in Conical Burr Grinder
Summary:
KRUPS sounds big, and it definitely is – EA8250 Espressia Super automatic espresso machine coffee maker is a lean, mean, coffee machine. It will brew your coffee in the way you never thought possible.
Detailed description of the product:
A fully automatic espresso coffee machine that might not be as famous as some of the brands we’ve mentioned earlier in our espresso machine reviews. The KRUPS EA8250 Espressia Super Automatic Espresso machine coffee maker has all the features you need, so let’s see what it’s made of.
Features:
This espresso machine features a fully automatic design. 1450 watts of pure power are packed in the conveniently compact design. It’s not big for a coffee brewer, but it takes a lot of space if we compare it to other espresso machines. The built-in conical grinder is able to capture the full flavor of your coffee, and the user-friendly settings allow for simple use.
Pros:
- A fully automatic coffee maker – 1450-watts motor and a compact design;
- Built-in conical grinder – full flavor and the adjustable settings of grinding;
- Thermoblock heating tech – 15-bar pump & hydraulic tamping system;
The potential Flaws:
- The features are not so self-explanatory – you may need some time to get accustomed to them;
Value for the price:
KRUPS Espressia is available at a modest price, but its overall value is quite great, mainly because of the several exquisite features it comes supplied with.
The final verdict:
A great coffee maker to have at home, the KRUPS Espressia comes supplied with a set of unique features and you can brew the best-quality coffee with it. Exceptional features, decent durability, and a decently affordable price.
De’Longhi EC680M DEDICA 15-Bar Pump Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel
Summary:
Another amazing product from the reputable De’Longhi brand – ECM680M Dedica is great for various reasons. It features a sleek design, the Thermo-block tech and the infamous patented cappuccino frothing tech.
Detailed description of the product:
This De’Longhi product is smaller when compared to the one we’ve already mentioned, it’s less powerful, but it’s also more affordable. The features are pretty similar (and more miniature-like), but it’s equally capable of brewing delicious coffee.
Features:
De’Longhi DEDICA is supplied with the Thermo-block technology, the patented cappuccino frothing system, the flow stop feature, and the stainless-steel construction. Its design is quite compact, so it won’t take too much of your storage space.
Pros:
- Small, compact design – it saves you a lot of counter space while retaining high levels of durability;
- A great price – this product is very affordable;
- Flow-stop feature – one of the many exquisite features that allow for convenient coffee brewing;
The potential Flaws:
- The motor of De’Longhi DEDICA is inferior to that of most high-quality espresso machines;
Value for the price:
It’s already cheap, but it also has a set of extraordinary features. Needless to say, it’s highly valuable for the price.
The final verdict:
Perhaps, the best automatic espresso machine in our review. Stainless-steel construction, a sleek design, the thermo-block technology and the cappuccino frothing mechanism are just some of the reasons why you should consider it.