- Ergonomic porta filter handle same as the proven design of Rancilio commercial machines
- Commercial grade group head for superb heat stability and extraction quality
- Articulating steam wand offers complete range of motion and professional steaming knob precisely controls steaming pressure
- Classic linear design fits most decors
- Optional pod and capsule adaptor kit available
Last update on 2022-01-08 at 01:39 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
It’s never easy to find an espresso machine that is worth the money for every coffee drinker. You either pay too much for features that you don’t use or pay too little for not enough features.
In order for an espresso maker to be labeled as “perfect,” it not only needs to be easy to use but it should also feature as many choices as you need. This is exactly why so many people came to appreciate Rancilio’s “Silvia” espresso machine.
Referred to as “Miss Silvia” to express their love for the device, this espresso maker can please both beginners and connoisseurs of espresso. Let’s see for ourselves what this lady can do.
Introducing The Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine
The Rancilio Silvia is a mix of many: it can remind you of the traditional espresso taste and also provide you exquisite beverages such as lattes, cappuccinos, and so on.
This machine has a variety of features that might make you fall for Miss Silvia as well. The group head and portafilter, for instance, are not only durable but convenient as well.
Not only is their surface large enough to be penetrated by water, but the chrome-plated bras can perfectly retain heat – providing you coffee of just the right temperature.
The 12 oz single boiler is also made from high-quality materials – specifically, marine grade brass that offers top heat conductivity. Thanks to the boiler size, you can make multiple espressos with a fast recycling time.
This unit offers two thermostats: one for brewing and one for steaming. You also have a safety switch that will prevent the boiler from overheating because of a malfunction.
The exterior is also very durable. Made from mixes of iron and stainless steel, the unit is not only durable but easy to clean as well. Plus, it can resist mineral buildups and erosion, which can further extend the life of the unit.
Overall, here are the features that you can get from the Rancilio Silvia espresso machine.
- Semi-automatic steam espresso machine
- 1 overheat switch and 2 thermostats
- Chrome-plated brass group head and portafilter
- 12 oz marine-grade brass single boiler
- 67 fl. oz. water reservoir
- 3-way solenoid valve
- Durable product made from iron and stainless steel
The Results
This semi-automatic espresso machine may take some time getting used to, due to the fact that you’ll have to set the temperatures yourself. They can go from 195F to 212F, and finding the perfect temp may be challenging for many people.
For me, I found that the best temperature for a great espresso shot is 199F. This, however, depends on each person’s taste. I don’t like my espresso to be scalding hot, which is why this temperature works just fine for me.
Since it only has one boiler, you have to wait a few seconds to enter the “steam mode” required to make the creams for cappuccinos and so on. Once more, getting the right adjustment will take a few tries, so practice makes perfect.
Despite the fact that it's semi-automatic, it’s very easy to use. Of course, it will take a few tries to get used to, but you do that with any electric device. You have only four rocker switches that read “brew,” “hot water,” steam,” and “indicator light.”
You also have a knob just above the steam wand that you can adjust for hot water dispensing or steaming.Click here to learn more about the product.
What Other People Say
The Rancilio Silvia is very popular, especially when it comes to North America. Most espresso enthusiasts love it for the fact that it’s simple to use, yet it still gives you some freedom to customize your drinks.
A lot of people also appreciate it for the construction quality, and even more for the quality of the provided espresso. Considering the price that it comes at, it also offers superior performance.
More than 80% of the people reviewing this espresso machine gave it a top rating for its durable construction and exceptional espresso-brewing ability.
The other people that were less impressed gave it a low rating due to its fussiness and the considerable learning curve that followed.
What We Liked
I liked the fact that compared to most espresso makers in this price range, this one has one of the largest boiler sizes. This means that you can pour more espressos in one round, without waiting for the water to heat up.
I also liked the fact that they used rocker switches instead of push-buttons. Compared to the latter, rocker switches are more durable and less prone to issues.
What We Didn’t Like
The Silvia is indeed rather fussy regarding the coarseness of the coffee grounds, which is why the taste of the espresso may differ from shot to shot.
Furthermore, if you are a beginner when it comes to espresso brewing, this unit may take some time getting used to. One of the most troublesome trials is surfing for the perfect brewing temperature.
Buying Advice
This unit is available for purchase on many websites, but you may want to give Amazon a try. Depending on the time of your purchase, you may get a pretty good discount or benefit from using a coupon code.
I didn’t get a discount when I bought it, but I did get the Free Shipping option. When you live in a fairly remote area, transportation tends to be as costly as the product – so you can say that the free shipping itself is a discount.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I recommend Rancilio’s “Silvia” for anyone who wants a good cup of espresso, cappuccino or latte every morning. It might take a few tries to get the perfect brew, but no one is born perfect. You’ll get used to it.
The espresso it makes is highly aromatic, and I personally find the brewing process fairly simple. Granted, it does have a few flaws; but when putting them into balance with the goods, it’s definitely a worthy purchase.
Last update on 2022-01-08 at 01:39 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API