Top-picked Espresso Machines for Multiple Budgets - Insights from a Former Barista
In the world of espresso, there are numerous machines to choose from, each with its own unique features and price points. Today, we're taking a closer look at three popular models: the Casabrews 3700 Essential, the Smeg EMC02, and the Breville Bambino Plus.
The Casabrews 3700 Essential: A Budget-Friendly Option
The Casabrews 3700 Essential is a budget-friendly espresso machine, priced at just $99 on Amazon. Despite its affordable price, it has received a 4-star review, making it a popular choice among those looking for an entry-level machine. The Casabrews 3700 Essential is compact, with a powerful(ish) steam wand and a low-profile design, making it suitable for smaller kitchens. However, it comes with dual-walled portafilters that pressurize the coffee during extraction, which can affect the taste. A bottomless portafilter from Casabrews can be purchased for $38 on Amazon to improve the flavour.
The Smeg EMC02: A Premium Choice
The Smeg EMC02 is a premium espresso machine, priced at $1,599 at Williams-Sonoma. This machine offers a range of advanced features, including the ability to select the extraction temperature to a degree, three boilers for quick switching between espresso and steam without heating-up time, and a built-in timer. The steam wand on the Smeg EMC02 is the closest the reviewer has ever gotten to a commercial steam wand, and it allows adjustment of pre-infusion and infusion. The Smeg EMC02 was made in collaboration with La Pavoni, a brand that is known for inventing espresso as we know it. The group head on the Smeg EMC02 is designed to resemble an iconic E61, although it is electric and heats up quickly.
However, the Smeg EMC02 is large, with a width of 14 inches, making it suitable for larger kitchens only. In April, a colleague said that a latte made with the Smeg EMC02 was the "best coffee I've ever had." In a 4.5-star review of the Smeg EMC02, the reviewer praised its professional-level coffee-making abilities and its ease of use.
The Breville Bambino Plus: A Mid-Range Favourite
The Breville Bambino Plus is a mid-range espresso machine, priced at $499 on Amazon. This machine offers rich, flavorful coffee and an ultra-powerful steam wand. It also comes with a PID controller for temperature regulation. In a review, the Breville Bambino Plus was hailed as the reviewer's personal favourite espresso machine. The machine does not come with a milk jug, but one can be purchased for $15 on Amazon.
In Conclusion
Each of these espresso machines has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice will depend on your budget, kitchen space, and personal preferences. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or a beginner, there's an espresso machine out there that's perfect for you.
