Commercial Espresso Machine

Best Commercial Espresso Machine

It’s one thing to have an espresso machine in your home and another one for your business. Apart from the higher volume of work that the commercial models need to provide, they also have to come with specific features. Keep reading for the details.

Should you look for a commercial espresso machine?

No matter how much of an espresso snob you are, you don’t always need a commercial espresso machine in your home.

Here are the most common situations that you should consider buying a commercial espresso machine:

  • You need it in a profitable food-service business
  • You have a considerable home and money isn’t an issue when purchasing
  • An office with high requests for coffee drinks throughout the day
  • A coffee place that is always busy

Three essential questions to ask yourself before buying!

Assuming that your mind is set on a commercial espresso machine, you should also be able to answer the following questions:

  • What types of coffee drinks do you want to have?
  • How many cups of coffee does the machine have to produce in a day?
  • Do the people operating the machine have the skills for it?

What are the special features of commercial espresso machines?

Not only that the commercial espresso machines are huge and pricey, but they also need to be connected straight to the waterline (for more comfortable use). They need a floor-drain and a 24-volt circuit.

The commercial espresso machine has at least two groups and allows consistent and impressive quality for the espresso. The first espresso in the day should be just as tasty as the last one in the day.

Good commercial espresso machines can give even more than 200 drinks in the day, so they’re made to take the excess use for a long time.

What counts the most when selecting?

Choosing the commercial espresso machine isn’t easy, so you need to keep in mind some significant aspects:

  • Volume

You need to tackle the volume aspect from two different points of view. First, how big is your establishment? How many people drink espresso in a day in your shop? Make sure that the espresso machine you select matches your needs and the volume of your business.

  • Automation

You should decide if you want a semi-automatic, a fully or a super-automatic machine. A semi-automatic ensures more control throughout the process and lets the barista shine.

Even if it’s easier to operate, the fully or super-automatic machine is going to be more challenging to customize.

  • Price

Does the machine come with a built-in frother or steam wand? Sometimes, you may have to buy more equipment, so give the price and features of the device a good thought.

One last tip before you go buying

You should know what you want and need for your establishment so that you don’t end up with an espresso machine that is too much for your business. It can go the other way around also, so make sure that you think it thoroughly.

TOP 10

   1. Barista Express Espresso Machine

Anyone interested in having a barista-grade espresso at home or owning a small coffee already should take a look at the Breville, the Barista Express Espresso Machine. The espresso machine is one of the most affordable you could have within the commercial category, which is why you should keep scrolling.

There are many good things that the machine puts on the table, with the reliable grinder being just one of the many. You can get does control with the grinder, with the conical burr grinder grinding at your command. It gives the amount you want, and it’s pouring it into the espresso port filter. The espresso extraction is precise, and the machine comes with digital temperature control (PID), proving water at the ideal temperatures.

You can choose a single or a double shot, just the way you want. The low-pressure pre-infusion and the 9bare extraction pressure are going to give a good espresso every time.

If you want to have a latte, you should try the micro-foam frother for a rich and textured foam.

The stainless steel build gives it a professional appearance, and the machine is durable and reliable. You also get a manual that is easy to follow and tools for cleaning the filters.

Let’s have a look at the main good things:

  • It comes with an easy-to-clean grinder
  • You may try single or double shots
  • It’s affordable and reliable
  • It’s well made and has a rugged build

The downsides aren’t significant:

  • It’s not all made of stainless steel
  • The risk for water lakes isn’t null

Stay focused on the goods, as the machine can be a solid choice for a small coffee place or anyone looking for commercial solutions in their home.

   2. Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine

When it comes to good espresso, nobody does it better than the Italians. The Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine is going to prove it, for sure.

Made in Italy, the machine comes loaded with features that anyone looking for commercial-grade espresso is going to love.

The commercial-grade group head ensures incredible stability for the heat and quality for the extraction. The steam allows a nice range of motion, whereas the professional steaming knob give you control over the steaming pressure accurately.

You’re going to find the portafilter handle easy to maneuver thanks to its ergonomic design too. The machine impresses with the robust linear housing, and it comes with iron frame and stainless steel side panels.

Even if the machine comes with a single boiler, it has a large volume capacity (12oz), and it’s made with plated brass. It’s able to provide amazing steaming power and has an incredible recovery time between shots.

As for the two-quart water reservoir, you may fill it from the top anytime, even while the machine is running. It’s easy to remove when in need.

The machine gives you a creamy espresso, even if you may need a bit of time until you learn how to control the temperature.

Listing the things we like the most about it:

  • It comes with commercial-grade group head and professional steaming knob
  • The temperature is stable, and the extraction is impressive
  • The articulating wand allows a remarkable range of motion
  • It’s sturdy and made in Italy

We’re not concerned about the minor issues:

  • Its footprint isn’t small, so you need a more extensive counter shop for placing
  • The water tank is small, but you can refill it while the machine is still running

All things considered, the device comes with many commercial features that explain its adequate controls, extraction, and tasty espresso.

   3. La Pavoni Automatic Espresso Machine

The first thing you’re going to notice at La Pavoni PA-1200 Napolitana Stainless Steel Automatic Espresso Machine is the appearance. However, the espresso machine is a lot more than meets the eye.

The stainless steel baskets, the built-in, conical burr grinder, and coffee press work smooth, and the use isn’t messy.

The machine gives 16 bars of pressure, ensuring the proper temperature of the water every time. It steams fast, and the pump doesn’t disappoint. The appliance makes tasty espresso and cappuccino.

The 100oz water reservoir and the removable drip trays are easy to use and have a durability feel.

The build recommends it for commercial use as the whole body is made of 18/8 stainless steel that was polished for a final gloss.

It’s a semi-automatic machine that allows you to control starting/stopping of the flow of coffee manually.

Here’s our list of pros:

  • It comes with a built-in burr grinder and coffee press
  • It gives 16 bars of pressure
  • The espresso and cappuccino are great
  • It’s semi-automatic and has a stainless steel body

The negatives aren’t deal breakers:

  • The tray is made of plastic
  • Some would like for the water to get even hotter

Despite the problems,  the machine is a reliable option to consider for a small business, especially if you’re new to the market.

   4. Breville Dual Boiler Espresso Machine

Many are going to be impressed with the features, build, and performance of the Breville BES920XL Dual Boiler Espresso Machine, so keep reading for finding out the details.

The machine comes with dual stainless steel boilers and double Italian pumps so that you can steam and extract espresso at the same time. You can enjoy the flexible shot control with the Over-Pressure Valve (OPS) limiting extraction pressure. The water temperature is accurate since the machine includes Electronic PID temperature control.

The backlit LCD displays brew temperature, shot clock, or time. The low-pressure pre-infusion and the 9 bar extraction pressure soak and expand the ground coffee evenly, and create a creamy extraction every time.

The machine is adjustable on many levels, allowing you to have your very own settings for various features. The Auto-on (it sets preheating the appliance at a specific time) and Auto-Fill function play their part into making the machine a dependable choice for so many. The top-fill (84oz) water tank allows straightforward access, whereas the hot water outlet ensures fast cup preheating. Any barista is going to get better thanks to the shot clock and the pressure gauge.

On top of everything else, the machine comes with descaling function so that cleaning runs smoothly.

Even though the machine ensures commercial-grade performance, it’s not a large machine and can work in an office correctly.

Let’s have another look at the best parts:

  • The machine includes dual stainless steel boilers and dual Italian pumps
  • You can control many features of the device
  • The backlit LCD is easy to read
  • It’s compact and gives commercial results

We’re not worried about the minor problems

  • Some elements inside aren’t high-quality
  • The steaming is slower than with other models

The good outweighs the bad, and the machine is a commercial-grade choice for many espresso snobs.

   5. Nuova Simonelli Oscar II Espresso Machine

The Nuova Simonelli Oscar II Espresso Machine gives you everything you may need for brewing your best espresso.

Marine grade brass was used for the marine group; brass is heat conductive and corrosion resistant too. The brew group ensures that the heat exchanger line from the boiler recirculates, always becoming prepared for brewing. The coveted 3-way solenoid valve lowers the risk for excessive pressure, eliminating built-up pressure at the end of brewing for drying the espresso puck. It also reduces the risk of dripping.

The boiler has features that reduce the overheating, expanding its durability. The Auto-Refill feature controls the water level in the boiler, and once the machine needs more water, it automatically adds more water. When there is not enough water in the system, the AutoFill system is going to turn the machine off automatically.

The machine has a steel frame and hardened ABS plastic exterior, taking excess use in an office (let’s say). It’s easy to clean, and it’s scratch-resistant too. The fingerprints and dirt don’t show off easily either.

You may flip the drip tray so that you use both small and large cups. On top of the unit, you may store a maximum of 12 cups for later use. The radiant heat of the boiler is going to keep them hot.

We sure like some things a lot:

  • The brew group is made with brass
  • The Auto-Refill keeps the water level under control
  • The machine has a steel frame and hardened ABS plastic exterior
  • You may store 12 cups on top of the machine

The inherent flaws don’t make us change our mind:

  • The heating element may develop problems in time
  • Some would like the machine to heat up faster

Whoever is looking for an espresso machine in their office, should give this one a try.

   6. Microcasa Semiautomatic Commercial Espresso Machine

If you want to have a functional, yet incredibly looking espresso machine for your intimate business, the Microcasa Semiautomatic Commercial Espresso Machine Finish: Copper and Brass. Not only that is functional, but it also looks incredible, stealing the show on any countertop. It’s a great addition to any décor, and many customers are going to want to have an espresso-only from admiring its looks.

The copper and brass design make the machine pop out, but its performance doesn’t disappoint either. The heat exchanger system gives the right temperature to extract the most delicious espresso drinks, whereas the round base is large and ensures stability. There are three red switches (power, coffee brew, and boiler refill) for effortless use of the machine.

Despite its sophisticated appearance, the machine is easy to put together, and you only need to attach the steam wand. The twist knob-controlled steam valve allows fast turn on/off — the water level sight glass with pressure gauge complete the build.

The boiler pressure relief valve ensures safety while using the machine. The espresso is good and creamy every time.

Let’s check the functional aspects once again:

  • It has an artistic look
  • It performs very well
  • It includes red switches for power, coffee brew, and boiler refill
  • The base is large and stays in place

The negatives are minor:

  • The drip tray is quite small
  • It doesn’t heat up fast

Amazingly beautiful and reliable, the espresso machine isn’t a regular machine, but it may look perfect in a small and intimate restaurant, nevertheless.

   7. Breville Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

When you want the commercial-grade machine in the comfort of your home, you should take the plunge with the Breville BES990BSSUSC Fully Automatic Espresso Machine.

The machine presents automatic control for every step of the process, so you only need to swipe and choose your drink (espresso, latte, flat white, long black, or cappuccino). It includes a conical burr grinder which grinds, doses, and tamps automatically.

Thanks to the digital temperature control (PID) technology, the temperature is maintained at all times. The Over Pressure Valve (OPV) controls the maximum pressure during extraction, reducing the risk for bitter flavors in the coffee drinks. The low-pressure pre-infusion is going to increase the pressure gradually so that the extraction is even.

The steam wand is powered by a separate steam boiler, texturing milk automatically. It cleans itself and gives smooth micro-foam.

The touch screen operation eases the use, and the machine is dependable for an office.

Here’s what we like the most about it:

  • It’s automatic and has a triple heat system
  • A dedicated steam boiler powers the steam wand
  • The touch screen is great to use
  • The quality of coffee drinks is commercial-grade

Don’t let the minor problems stay in your way when deciding:

  • Finding replacement filters is tricky
  • Some expect even better features

The machine can work in an office or a small business that doesn’t have a high request for espresso throughout the day.

   8. Nuova Simonelli Musica-Lux Espresso Machine

The Nuova Simonelli Musica Direct Connect Version Lux Espresso Machine is a perfect option for a small coffee shop or a small business. It’s a semi-automatic machine with one group head that impresses with its abilities.

Don’t let the size of the machine mislead you since the machine is loaded with great features. It’s the choice for the entry-level professionals, and it can serve up to 60 cups a day.

The compact build makes it easy to display, but its functions recommend it for commercial use. It includes automatic dosing, steaming system, and thermos-compensated group. It contains a sound-proof pump and insulated boiler with exchanger.

The list of features continues with the ergonomic portafilters and the push-pull steaming system that protect the user against injuries. You can use it with its 3-liter reservoir or connect it straight to the waterline. This feature alone makes the machine versatile.

The LCD menu allows easy adjustability for your drinks, whereas the full metal body ensures durability for the machine. The hot water wand and the versatile brewing make the appliance a dependable option for a small shop. You still have to tamp and grind your grounds, but the machine comes with an auto-shutoff function for shot pulling. It includes programmable buttons to one/two cup and continuous brews.

Let’s have another look at the best parts:

  • It’s great for a small business
  • It has easy to read LCD
  • You can use it with a boiler or connect it to the waterline
  • It’s robust, dependable and comes with full metal body

The downsides don’t make it as deal breakers:

  • You have to tamp and grind the grounds
  • It’s not for a coffee-oriented business

The long list of features, consistent performance, and durable build turn the machine into a good buy for a small coffee place.

   9. La Pavoni Volumetric Electronic Espresso Machine

Anyone owning a coffee place should know that having a reliable and robust espresso machine is the key for a business to grow. The La Pavoni PUB 2V-B Two Group Volumetric Electronic Espresso Machine is that, and the device has so many great features to list.

Due to the volumetric dosing and temperature stability, the machine is an excellent choice for a busy shop that has high espresso sales. The two-group machine comes with chrome-plated groups and two-press forged brass, allowing baristas to deliver several drinks at the same time.

The machine has a direct feed to the waterline, which is one of the essential features to have on an espresso machine in a shop. Baristas don’t need to refill the water reservoir, concentrating on other jobs in the shop.

You can make 200 or more drinks per day as the machine comes with a 14-liter boiler, taking excess use in a shop. Let’s not forget to mention the copper build, which makes the boiler heat-effective and antimicrobial (reducing the risk of bacteria). It’s iron-free as well, which means that it has no chance of rusting.

The groups of the machine come with an independent radiator hydraulic system that runs the water in the boiler. Therefore, the water has a stable temperature and no variable temperature pockets to alter the espresso.

It’s a volumetric machine that includes particular water volume measurements so that every espresso is extracted with the same specifications. The first espresso is going to be just as good as the last one in the day.

We should also mention the free water softener that removes calcium and magnesium ions from hard water that may cause scaling and damaging the machine.

Let’s check the functional aspects once more:

  • It’s a volumetric machine with a direct feed to the waterline
  • It includes a 14-liter boiler made of copper
  • The groups have independent radiator hydraulic system
  • It’s dependable for a small shop

We don’t worry because of some minor problems:

  • It works in a restaurant, and not in a large or busy coffee-oriented shop
  • You need to take care of it

Affordable considering its build, features, and performance, the machine is an excellent investment for a cute little restaurant downtown.

   10. Nuova Simonelli Aurelia Ii Digital 4

The sleek, clean, and attractive appearance of Nuova Simonelli Aurelia Ii Digital 4 is the first thing you notice, but the machine impresses with features and performance too.

The machine has the perfect number of group heads that recommend it for the businesses with high volume every day. If you need to make several shots of espresso simultaneously, the machine is going to deliver. It also includes two steam wands (one at every end), so that two baristas can use it as the same time.

The surface’s machine is bright and well-lit, which counts for its visibility in a busy shop. However, the back is angled so that the barista can see the coffee leaving the spout, which lowers the risk for burns.

The LED lights at the nozzles may light up the milk when using the steam wands, increasing the visibility and the chance of having a creamier and softer cappuccino or latte.

The machine includes temperature control displays, T3 technology systems (relates to the water supplies temperature precision), and photographic exhibitions with several colors. The groups have features that allow incredible versatility and control over many functions. You can brew and steam at a fast pace at the same time, without ever worrying about the consistency of the temperature.

The “soft infusion” system of the machine gives creamy and consistent espresso shots every time, eliminating the risk for mistakes. The “smart wand” helps while steaming milk, whereas the reverse mirror allows baristas to see the espresso shot throughout the pouring. The outside of the wand is cool to touch, which only makes the machine safer to use.

The machine won the World Barista Championship back in 2012 and 2014, which says a lot about its built, features, and overall performance.

Here’s what we like the most about it:

  • The machine is for the high-volume shops
  • It comes with two steam wands at every end
  • You can have a different temperature for the steam wands
  • It’s a winner and an excellent investment for any large coffee house

Bells and whistles aside, here’s what we like less:

  • It’s comprehensive, so make sure you got the place for it
  • It doesn’t come cheap

Regardless of the minor issues, the machine is quite the power-horse you may have been looking for now that your coffee shop has expanded.

FAQs on commercial espresso machines

Q: What is NSF certification, and why do industrial espresso machines need one?

A: The National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) checks the factories and their products. It releases  (or not) certification that the commercial espresso machine (or any other kitchen appliance) is both safe and sanitary. With many people running back and forth in a restaurant, it makes sense that has to be tough and handle a busy environment. It shouldn’t pose a risk for health or safety (hence, the NSF certification).

Q: Why are the commercial espresso machines so pricey?

A: Many aspects make the commercial espresso machines pricy. They’re made with long-lasting materials (aluminum is one), with impressive temperature consistency, to take the heavy-duty use, and to be long-lasting altogether. High-quality materials and unique technologies are required for achieving that kind of performance, making the commercial espresso machines pricier than models for home use.

Q: Is renting a espresso machine a good idea?

A: If you’re running a small business and you have a big-scale event, a rented commercial espresso machine can be a solution. You should also think about renting one if you have a big family event at your home. Just look in town for the rental options.

Q: Should you clean the commercial espresso machine?

A: It’s fundamental that you have the commercial clean and running, especially if you want to expand its durability. Do a routine cleaning for the industrial model and commercial coffee grinder at the end of the business day. It should take you less than 10 minutes from start to finish, so find out how do it right.

Q: What’s the lifespan for  a commercial espresso machine?

A: As long as you’re taking good care of the machine regularly, you should rely on it for 10-15 years. Descaling the device is also essential, and some models can even take two decades of use.

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