Best Espresso Machines
Espresso is a rich, concentrated coffee loved by many for its bold flavor and creamy layer of crema on top. Making espresso at home can save money and give you control over your coffee experience. A good espresso machine lets you craft cafe-quality drinks in your kitchen without the daily trip to a coffee shop.
We love the ritual of brewing espresso – the whir of the grinder, the tamping of grounds, and the satisfying hiss of steam. Home espresso machines range from simple manual devices to fully automatic models that do everything for you. Some focus on just espresso, while others come with milk frothers for making lattes and cappuccinos.
When shopping for an espresso machine, pay attention to the pump pressure. A good machine needs at least 9 bars of pressure to properly extract espresso. Look for machines with 15-bar pumps, which provide plenty of pressure for consistent shots.
Temperature stability is crucial for good espresso. Machines with PID temperature controllers maintain more precise temperatures than those without. This helps ensure your coffee isn’t bitter from water that’s too hot or sour from water that’s too cool.
For milk drinks, consider the steam wand quality. Better wands create finer microfoam for silky lattes. Some entry-level machines have “panarello” wands that add air automatically but offer less control.
Size matters too – some machines can take up significant counter space. The learning curve is another factor to consider. Manual machines give you more control but require more skill, while automatic machines are easier to use but offer less customization.
We spent several weeks testing 15 espresso machines at various price points to find the best options for different needs and budgets.
Key features to look for in an espresso machine
The heart of any espresso machine is its pump and heating system. A good machine needs at least 9 bars of pressure to properly extract espresso. Look for machines with 15-bar pumps, which provide plenty of pressure for consistent shots.
Temperature stability is crucial for good espresso. Machines with PID temperature controllers maintain more precise temperatures than those without. This helps ensure your coffee isn’t bitter from water that’s too hot or sour from water that’s too cool.
For milk drinks, consider the steam wand quality. Better wands create finer microfoam for silky lattes. Some entry-level machines have “panarello” wands that add air automatically but offer less control.
Types of espresso machines
Semi-automatic machines are the most common type for home use. They handle the pressure and temperature, but you control when to start and stop the shot. This gives you flexibility to adjust extraction time based on taste.
Fully automatic machines do everything with a button press. They’re convenient but limit your ability to customize drinks. Super-automatic machines even grind the beans and froth milk automatically.
Manual lever machines require physical effort to pull shots. They’re challenging to master but give complete control over pressure during extraction. These machines appeal to enthusiasts who enjoy the hands-on process.
Our testing process
We evaluated each machine based on ease of use, consistency, cleaning requirements, and the quality of espresso produced. We tested with various coffee beans and grind sizes to assess versatility.
Best Espresso Machines
We’ve tested dozens of espresso machines to find the ones that deliver the richest flavor and creamiest crema. Our list includes options for every budget and skill level, from beginner-friendly automatic models to professional-grade manual machines. Each of our recommendations balances quality, features, and value to help you make the perfect cup at home.
Breville Barista Express
The Breville Barista Express offers excellent value for anyone who wants cafe-quality espresso at home without spending thousands on professional equipment.
Pros
- Built-in grinder saves counter space and ensures fresh grounds
- Precise temperature control creates balanced, flavorful shots
- Powerful steam wand makes excellent microfoam for latte art
Cons
- Learning curve can be steep for beginners
- Takes up significant counter space
- Clean-up requires some time and attention
We’ve been testing the Breville Barista Express for several weeks now, and it’s truly transformed our morning routine. The brushed stainless steel design looks sleek in our kitchen, and the all-in-one system means we don’t need separate equipment for grinding beans.
The integrated conical burr grinder is a standout feature. It delivers freshly ground coffee directly into the portafilter, and we can easily adjust the grind size depending on our bean choice. This makes a huge difference in shot quality compared to pre-ground coffee.
Temperature control is spot-on with this machine. The digital PID system maintains consistent water temperature, which means our shots taste balanced every time. The pre-infusion function gently soaks the grounds before extraction, resulting in more flavor and a beautiful crema.
Making milk drinks is surprisingly easy. The steam wand heats and textures milk quickly, and with some practice, we’ve been able to create microfoam good enough for decent latte art. The included stainless steel milk jug is perfectly sized for one or two drinks.
Clean-up isn’t difficult but requires regular attention. We’ve found a quick wipe of the steam wand and a rinse of the portafilter after each use keeps everything in good shape. The machine also lets you know when it’s time for a deeper cleaning cycle.
At this price point, we’re impressed with the quality and durability. For anyone ready to move beyond basic coffee makers, the Breville Barista Express offers an excellent middle ground between simple pod machines and high-end espresso setups.
Breville Barista Touch
This sleek touchscreen espresso machine combines ease of use with professional-quality results, making it worth the investment for serious home baristas.
Pros
- Intuitive touchscreen interface with programmable settings
- Built-in conical burr grinder with 30 grind settings
- Quick heat-up time for brewing and milk texturing
Cons
- Higher price point than entry-level machines
- Learning curve for perfecting milk texture
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
The Breville Barista Touch impressed us from the moment we unboxed it. Its brushed stainless steel finish gives it a premium look that elevates any kitchen countertop. The machine strikes an excellent balance between automation and hands-on control that both beginners and experienced coffee lovers will appreciate.
What sets this machine apart is its color touchscreen interface. We found it incredibly straightforward to select drinks, adjust settings, and save custom recipes. The built-in conical burr grinder delivers consistent grounds directly into the portafilter, eliminating the need for a separate grinder and reducing counter clutter.
In our testing, the espresso quality was outstanding. The Barista Touch heats up quickly and maintains perfect temperature stability throughout the brewing process. The automatic milk frother created silky microfoam that we used to pour basic latte art. We particularly appreciated the ability to adjust milk temperature and texture to match our preferences.
Cleanup is relatively simple thanks to the removable parts, though like all espresso machines, regular maintenance is necessary. The water tank is generously sized and easy to refill. While the price might seem steep initially, we believe the quality, versatility, and convenience make this a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about their daily coffee ritual.
CASABREWS Espresso Machine
This semi-automatic espresso machine offers excellent value with its 20-bar pressure system and milk frother, making it a solid choice for beginners wanting to craft barista-quality drinks at home.
Pros
- Powerful 20-bar pressure produces rich, aromatic espresso
- Versatile steam wand creates velvety microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos
- Compact design fits well in small kitchens
Cons
- Requires cooling period between milk frothing and brewing
- Learning curve for achieving perfect milk texture
- No built-in grinder
We recently tested the CASABREWS espresso machine in our home kitchen, and it impressed us with its performance relative to its price point. The stainless steel finish gives it a premium look that fits nicely even in our modest-sized kitchen space. During our testing, the pressure gauge proved incredibly useful for dialing in the perfect extraction.
The steam wand delivers impressive power for creating microfoam. After some practice, we were able to texture milk well enough for basic latte art designs. The 34-ounce removable water tank is convenient for refilling and provides enough capacity for several drinks before needing a refill.
One thing to note from our experience is the machine’s need to cool down after milk steaming before pulling shots. This safety feature prevents overheating, but requires patience when making multiple milk-based drinks. Despite this minor inconvenience, we found the CASABREWS machine delivers excellent espresso with beautiful crema that rivals what you’d get at many coffee shops.
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine
The Breville Bambino offers barista-quality espresso in a compact package that heats up quickly and delivers consistent results for home coffee enthusiasts.
Pros
- Heats up in just 3 seconds
- Automatic milk frother creates perfect microfoam
- Compact size fits easily on countertops
Cons
- Higher price point than basic machines
- Learning curve for beginners
- Limited customization compared to higher-end models
We’ve been testing the Breville Bambino in our home kitchen for several weeks now, and it’s impressive how much quality this compact machine delivers. The brushed stainless steel design looks sleek on our counter without taking up much space. For a semi-automatic machine, it strikes a good balance between convenience and control.
The standout feature is definitely the heating system. When we say it heats up in 3 seconds, we mean it! No more waiting around for your machine to warm up in the morning. The automatic milk frother also deserves praise – it textures milk to the perfect microfoam consistency for lattes and cappuccinos without requiring any skill.
We found the 54mm portafilter creates full-bodied shots with rich crema. The pre-infusion function gradually increases pressure at the start of extraction, which helps bring out balanced flavors in the espresso. Clean-up is straightforward too. While it’s not the cheapest option available, the quality and convenience make it worth considering if you’re serious about espresso at home.
LERTIN Compact Espresso Machine
This powerful 20-bar espresso maker delivers barista-quality drinks at home. It has impressive temperature control and versatility for both hot and cold brews.
Pros
- Quick 16-second preheating and easy-to-read digital display
- Versatile for multiple coffee types including cold brew
- Large 57.5 oz removable water tank for convenience
Cons
- Cold extraction function requires power to be off
- Learning curve for milk steaming technique
- Slightly bulky for very small countertops
We were immediately impressed by the LERTIN’s sleek stainless steel design when we unboxed it. The machine feels sturdy and well-built despite its compact size. The digital display is a standout feature, clearly showing temperature and brew time as we made our espresso.
The 20-bar pressure system delivers consistently rich espresso with excellent crema. During our testing, we found the PID temperature control maintained the ideal 198°F brewing temperature for optimal flavor extraction.
The preheated cups (using the warming area on top) made a noticeable difference in preserving the espresso’s aroma and flavor.
The milk frother works efficiently for creating velvety microfoam perfect for lattes and cappuccinos. We appreciated the insulated sleeve on the steam wand for safety.
The large removable water tank meant we could make several drinks without constant refilling. For outdoor coffee enthusiasts, this machine is portable enough for camping trips while still delivering cafe-quality results.
Atatix Espresso Machine with Milk Frother
This compact espresso maker offers excellent value with its 20-bar pressure system and versatile milk frother for crafting cafe-quality drinks at home.
Pros
- Powerful 20-bar pressure creates rich, flavorful espresso
- Versatile milk frothing system for lattes and cappuccinos
- Compact design fits easily in small kitchens
Cons
- Manual requires careful reading for beginners
- Water tank could be larger for multiple drinks
- Learning curve for perfect milk texture
We tested the Atatix espresso machine in our kitchen for two weeks and were impressed by its performance. The 20-bar pressure system consistently delivered rich espresso with a beautiful crema layer.
For a machine at this price point, the extraction quality rivals what you’d find in many coffee shops.
The milk frother works surprisingly well. After a few practice runs, we created silky microfoam perfect for lattes and cappuccinos.
The steam wand has enough power to create that velvety texture needed for latte art. We found the temperature control system maintained the ideal brewing temperature throughout multiple uses.
Its compact footprint makes it ideal for smaller kitchens. The stainless steel elements give it a premium look that wouldn’t be out of place in a modern kitchen.
Cleanup is straightforward with the removable drip tray and water tank. Having both automatic and manual extraction options provides flexibility to customize your coffee strength. This machine delivers excellent value for home baristas looking to craft café-quality drinks without breaking the bank.
De’Longhi Stilosa Espresso Machine
The De’Longhi Stilosa offers impressive espresso quality and milk frothing capabilities at an entry-level price point, making it perfect for beginners wanting to explore home espresso brewing.
Pros
- Compact design fits easily on small countertops
- Produces authentic espresso with good crema thanks to 15-bar pump
- Manual milk frother works well for lattes and cappuccinos
Cons
- Learning curve for first-time espresso makers
- Water tank needs frequent refilling with regular use
- Plastic components feel less premium than higher-end machines
We recently tested the De’Longhi Stilosa in our kitchen and were impressed by its performance considering the price. The machine heats up quickly, and within minutes we were pulling shots with a nice golden crema on top.
The 15-bar pressure pump delivers consistent results once you get the hang of proper tamping.
The stainless steel boiler is a standout feature not often found in this price range. Many competitors use aluminum or other materials that don’t last as long.
We found the manual milk frother straightforward to use, creating silky microfoam perfect for cappuccinos after just a few practice attempts.
Cleaning is relatively simple, though you’ll need to stay on top of maintenance. The drip tray removes easily for emptying, and the portafilter rinses clean without much effort.
For anyone looking to start their home espresso journey without breaking the bank, the Stilosa strikes an excellent balance between affordability and performance. It’s not perfect, but it delivers where it counts.
Breville Barista Pro
The Breville Barista Pro is worth every penny for serious coffee lovers who want café-quality espresso at home without the learning curve of more complex machines.
Pros
- Heats up in just 3 seconds, letting you make coffee quickly
- Built-in grinder saves counter space and keeps beans fresh
- Intuitive LCD screen makes it easy to adjust settings
Cons
- Price tag is high for casual coffee drinkers
- Takes practice to master milk texturing
- Requires regular cleaning to maintain performance
We tested the Breville Barista Pro for several weeks, and it impressed us with how quickly it goes from beans to espresso.
The integrated conical burr grinder delivers freshly ground coffee directly into the portafilter with just one touch. Unlike cheaper machines, this one heats up in about 3 seconds thanks to its ThermoJet heating system.
The brushed stainless steel design looks professional on our counter. We found the LCD display particularly helpful for new users.
It shows clear animations for grinding and extraction progress, taking the guesswork out of making perfect espresso. The machine also lets you adjust grind size easily, which is essential for getting the right flavor.
Milk texturing takes some practice but creates restaurant-quality microfoam once mastered. We made lattes with silky microfoam after just a few tries.
The machine comes with useful accessories including a milk jug and cleaning tools. Daily maintenance is simple, though deep cleaning is needed occasionally.
For anyone serious about espresso but not ready to spend over $1,000, this machine offers the perfect balance of quality, features, and user-friendliness.
Ninja Luxe Café Premier
The Ninja Luxe Café Premier is worth every penny for coffee lovers who want a versatile, user-friendly machine that makes excellent espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew with minimal effort.
Pros
- Three machines in one (espresso, drip coffee, cold brew)
- Guided experience with Barista Assist Technology
- Hands-free milk frothing system works perfectly
Cons
- Takes up significant counter space
- Learning curve for first-time users
- Higher price point than basic models
We recently tested the Ninja Luxe Café Premier and were impressed by its versatility. This machine truly offers three distinct brewing methods in one sleek package.
The espresso function produced rich, crema-topped shots that rivaled our local coffee shop. The built-in conical burr grinder with 25 settings ensured we got the perfect grind every time.
The Barista Assist Technology makes a huge difference for beginners. It recommended the ideal grind size for our beans and automatically adjusted temperature and pressure settings.
We loved that the built-in scale measured grounds by weight instead of time, which coffee experts know is crucial for consistency. The assisted tamper created perfect pucks with even extraction.
Milk frothing is where many home machines fall short, but not this one. The hands-free Dual Froth System created velvety microfoam for our lattes with zero effort. It worked equally well with oat milk and dairy.
The cold brew function was a pleasant surprise, making smooth cold coffee in minutes instead of hours. For a premium all-in-one coffee station that removes guesswork and delivers professional results, this Ninja machine earns our highest recommendation.
CASABREWS Espresso Machine
This compact espresso machine offers impressive quality and versatility for its affordable price point, making it a solid choice for home baristas.
Pros
- Powerful 20 bar pressure system creates rich, flavorful espresso
- Versatile milk frother creates creamy microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos
- Large 49oz removable water tank reduces frequent refilling
Cons
- Requires some practice to master milk frothing technique
- Needs preheating before first use
- Steam wand position takes some getting used to
We recently tested the CASABREWS Espresso Machine in our home kitchen and were pleasantly surprised by its performance. The stainless steel design looks sleek on the counter without taking up too much space.
After following the initial setup instructions (don’t forget to remove that rubber plug!), we were pulling quality shots within minutes.
The 20 bar pressure system isn’t just marketing hype – it actually delivers consistent extraction with impressive crema. We noticed the difference immediately compared to lower-pressure machines we’ve used before.
The milk frother deserves special mention. It creates silky microfoam that’s perfect for creating latte art. The learning curve isn’t too steep, though we did find it takes a few attempts to get the angle and depth just right.
The separate one-cup and two-cup filters are convenient for different serving sizes, and the detachable water tank makes refilling and cleaning much easier than expected. For anyone wanting to make cafe-quality drinks at home without breaking the bank, this CASABREWS machine delivers impressive results.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right espresso machine can be overwhelming. We’ve put together this guide to help you find the perfect match for your coffee needs.
Budget
Consider how much you want to spend before shopping. Espresso machines range from under $100 to over $1,000.
Higher prices typically mean better durability, more features, and consistent results. However, there are good options at every price point.
Types of Espresso Machines
| Type | Ease of Use | Control | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manual | Low | High | $$$-$$$$ |
| Semi-automatic | Medium | Medium | $$-$$$$ |
| Automatic | High | Low | $$-$$$$ |
| Super-automatic | Very High | Very Low | $$$-$$$$ |
| Pod/Capsule | Very High | Very Low | $-$$ |
Key Features to Consider
Bar Pressure: Look for at least 9 bars of pressure for proper extraction.
Boiler Type: Single boilers are more affordable, while dual boilers let you brew and steam simultaneously.
Grinder: Built-in grinders save space but separate grinders often perform better.
Milk Frothing: Decide if you need a steam wand, automatic frother, or no milk capabilities.
Size and Capacity
Measure your counter space before purchasing. Consider water tank size if you make multiple drinks in succession.
Ease of Cleaning
Removable parts and self-cleaning functions make maintenance simpler. This is often overlooked but very important for long-term satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many consumers have specific questions when shopping for espresso machines. We’ve compiled the most common inquiries to help you make an informed decision for your home brewing needs.
What features should I look for in a professional-grade espresso machine for home use?
Professional-grade espresso machines for home use should have precise temperature control and pressure stability. Look for PID temperature controllers. These maintain consistent brewing temperature within 1-2 degrees.
A quality machine should offer 9 bars of pressure during extraction. It should also include a commercial-grade portafilter. The standard size for this is 58mm. Pre-infusion capability helps ensure even extraction by gently wetting the grounds before applying full pressure.
Durable materials like stainless steel boilers and brass groupheads will provide longevity. Consider machines with heat exchangers or dual boilers. These are useful if you frequently make milk-based drinks. They allow simultaneous brewing and steaming.
How do I choose the best espresso machine for a beginner?
For beginners, we recommend semi-automatic machines that balance control with ease of use. Look for machines with programmable shot volumes and intuitive interfaces.
Consider the learning curve. Machines with pressure gauges provide visual feedback to help you dial in your shots. Built-in grinders can simplify your workflow. But they aren’t necessary if you prefer a separate grinder.
Budget around $400-700 for a quality starter machine. The Gaggia Classic Pro and Breville Bambino Plus are excellent entry points. They can grow with your skills while being forgiving to beginners.
What are the top recommended automatic espresso machines currently on the market?
The Breville Barista Express consistently ranks among the best automatics for its integrated grinder and user-friendly interface. It offers 18 grind settings and programmable shot volumes.
For higher-end options, the Jura S8 delivers exceptional fully automatic performance. It has one-touch operation for 15 different specialty drinks. Its Pulse Extraction Process optimizes flavor extraction.
The DeLonghi La Specialista Prestigio provides an innovative approach. It has a built-in tamping system and separate brewing profiles for different coffee styles.
Considering value for money, what are the best budget espresso machines available?
The Flair Espresso Maker offers impressive manual espresso at around $160. This proves great espresso doesn’t require electronics. Its lever-operated design gives complete control over pressure profiling.
De’Longhi’s EC155 delivers respectable espresso and cappuccino capabilities under $100. While it uses a pressurized portafilter, it can produce decent crema and satisfying drinks.
The Breville Bambino stands out at approximately $300. It provides programmed pre-infusion and professional-quality steam wand capabilities in a compact, affordable package.
Which espresso machines with built-in grinders offer the best coffee quality?
The Breville Oracle Touch combines a conical burr grinder with automated grinding, dosing, and tamping. Its dual boiler system and touchscreen interface deliver exceptional results with minimal effort.
Jura’s Z8 features their Aroma G3 grinder with adjustable fineness and Pulse Extraction Process technology. This combination consistently produces well-extracted espresso with rich crema.
The Gaggia Anima Prestige offers excellent espresso from its ceramic burr grinder with adjustable settings. Its unique pre-brewing system wets the coffee grounds for optimal extraction.
What are the most highly regarded espresso machine brands among baristas?
La Marzocco enjoys legendary status among professional baristas. Their Linea Mini brings commercial quality to home users. It has exceptional temperature stability and build quality.
Rocket Espresso machines combine Italian craftsmanship with reliable performance. Their E61 group heads provide excellent thermal stability and pre-infusion capabilities.
Lelit and ECM have gained strong followings for their prosumer machines. These machines offer commercial components in home-friendly packages. Both brands emphasize precision temperature control and pressure consistency.
