If you're ready to upgrade from an entry level espresso machine to something a little bit more robust, we've got you covered. Today we're taking a look at some killer prosumer espresso machine options that won't break the bank. It our Best Prosumer Espresso Machines of 2024 that come in around the $1,000 mark. Let's take a look!
Lelit Victoria
The Lelit Victoria is the most affordable of the machines we'll be covering today. This machine has a traditional boiler, which means that you won't be able to steam and brew at the same time. With that said, this espresso machine IS equipped with a PID controller. This means that you'll be able to see exactly when the boiler is up to temperature for your steaming or brewing. The Victoria also features a dual purpose steam wand that can provide hot water. This makes it a great option for any americano lovers out there.
Perhaps the biggest draw for the Lelit Victoria is the Lelit Control Center app. This app will let you change boiler temps easily from your phone, and also gives you access to pre-brew settings for the pump. These settings will allow you to saturate the espresso puck with a bit of water before the full brew pressure is applied, which can be a great way to brew a richer shot. Overall, this an excellent espresso machine for your first big step-up into the prosumer space. You can expect to get several years of use out of this machine at least when properly maintained.
Silvia PID
The Rancilio Silvia is one of the most classic home espresso machines on the market. It's a classic because it's so robust. This machine has been developed with the same ruggedness and durability of Rancilio's commercial espresso machines, making it a fan favorite for its tank-like construction. This machine is a single boiler unit similar to the Victoria, which means that you will have to heat it to steam, then let the temps fall again to get into brew range.
What makes this entry in our list special is the aftermarket addition that our techs make to the machine. The stock Silvia is a great machine, but it can be a challenge to manage its temperatures. Many Silvia users have to learn to "temperature surf", or ride the temperature waves that the stock boiler produces by flushing water to manage the heating element. With a Silvia PID from Seattle Coffee Gear, you'll get the benefit of an added PID controller. This PID controller lets you tweak boiler temps, and see clearly when it's where it needs to be heat-wise. Plus - this modification doesn't affect your machine's warranty!
The Silvia PID is a really excellent option if you want a machine that will last - this machine can run for a decade with regular maintenence, and can go for much longer than that if you're willing to make some longer term repairs. It even comes in black, white, or stainless, so you can fit it to your kitchen's aesthetic.
Diletta Mio
The Diletta Mio is our house label machine that we developed with Quick Mill. It's probably obvious, but we love this machine. The standout part of this machine is its dual heating element set up for brewing and steaming. A traditional boiler provides water for brewing with a PID controller, like the machines above. However, this machine also features a thermoblock heating element for steaming that allows you to brew and steam simultaneously. The downside here is that it does not have a hot water spout, so if you're a dedicated americano drinker you might want to look to the Silvia or the Victoria.
With all of that said, our customers love the Mio as much as we do. Thoughtful features like a side-loading water tank and an extra large drip tray are things you don't often see at this price point. Like the Silvia, the Mio also comes in black, white, or chrome, giving you the ability to match it to the rest of your appliances. Plus, it has longevity to match the other machines we've featured in this article.
The Mio is definitely the machine for you if you love a latte or cappuccino. The lack of hot water option might be a deal breaker for some, but the simultaneous steaming and brewing is a feature you are unlikely to find at this price point anywhere else.
We hope this info has helped you pick out your next espresso upgrade! Check out our video below to see the machines and hear more from John!