Last Updated on October 13, 2023 by Timothy Byron Smith
As a coffee enthusiast, owning a high-quality espresso machine can transform your daily coffee routine. But, selecting the ideal one from the many available options can be overwhelming. There are various features and prices to consider, from semi-automatic to fully automatic machines.
To help you make the right choice, we have curated a list of the best espresso machines in the market.
This guide will assist you in finding a perfect match for your budget and brewing preferences, enabling you to make barista-quality espresso in the comfort of your home.
Read More: How To Use An Espresso Machine
A Quick Look At Our Top Picks
- Dual Heating System
- Smart Tamping Station
- Sensor Grinding Technology
- Compact Footprint
- 3 Second Heat Up Time
- Cafe Quality Crema
- 33.8 fl. oz water tank
- Stainless Steel Boiler
- Manual Milk Frother
The 10 Best Espresso Machines Reviewed
Nowadays, the best espresso machines incorporate advanced technology, which improves their performance and makes them easier to control. Some of these machines also come with automated settings that allow you to make tasty lattes and cappuccinos with just one button.
1. De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine (Best Overall)
Key Features:
Manufacturer: De’LonghiDimensions: 15 x 14.48 x 17.5 inches
Pressure: 19 bars
Machine Type: Semi-Automatic
Price Range: $$$
This elegant automated espresso maker has a built-in grinder making it simple to use and customizable to your tastes.
You can select any of the six grinding settings to make dark espresso with a coarse grind. Additionally, it can also provide hot water. This machine uses dual boilers to brew coffee and steam milk at the same time.
The La Specialista from De’Longhi includes an integrated intelligent tamping system that assists in correctly stuffing your grinds into the portafilter. The installed pressure gauge allows you to know and make sure you’re drawing the shot at the ideal pressure.
It also features a flexible boiler steam wand that can make flat milk for lattes or frothy milk for cappuccinos.
We like the quality of the shots brewed, It created a rich espresso experience with a delicate, velvety crema, which we adore while making specialized coffee drinks.
De’Longhi La Specialista
2. Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine (Best For Beginners)
Key Features:
Manufacturer: BrevilleDimensions: 7.6 x 12.5 x 12.2 inches
Pressure: 9 bars
Machine Type: Semi-Automatic
Price Range: $$
Pulling an espresso shot like an expert may require some training, Yet, an easy-to-operate espresso machine can make a difference. Talking about the most user-friendly coffee maker, Breville has got you covered. You can pull a satisfying espresso shot or do a complicated task like making lattes or cappuccinos with the Bambino Plus Espresso machine by Breville.
This espresso maker has a simple straightforward setting to provide consistently powerful results, even for beginners. For better extraction, this machine passes low-pressure water into the coffee grind which helps in maintaining the same flavor and crema all the time.
Its 2-liter water tank is simple to take out, clean, and refill. The machine intelligently rinses milk out from the wand after you’ve finished frothing.
You are getting a milk pitcher, cleaning supplies, and a helpful trimming tamped with this Bambino espresso machine. However, there is no built-in grinder and a spout for brewing hot water in it.
This machine evolves alongside your expertise and gives a self-assurance of a better espresso experience with time. The extendable steam wand has a manually operated micro-foam setting and an automated option for newbies.
Breville Bambino Plus
3. De’Longhi Stilosa Bar Pump Espresso Machine (Most Affordable)
Key Features:
Manufacturer: De’LonghiDimensions: 8.07 x 13.5 x 11.22 inches
Pressure: 15 bars
Machine Type: Semi-Automatic
Price Range: $
Want to know about a good affordable espresso machine then Look no further, the De’Longhi Stilosa is an economical option with a premium setting.
Get the authentic 13 Barr pressure, double spout portafilter, stainless steel boiler, and built-in Milk Frother in a budget-friendly package.
Keep in mind that being a manual espresso machine, the grinding, measuring, tamping, and frothing all will be done by you. So, if you are a beginner then it is better to start with a semi-automatic espresso machine.
Yet, if you are willing to learn after a few experimental shots, you will get hang of the process and how to use this machine.
Boiler quality and build is the most crucial aspect of any best espresso machine, here the boiler is made of stainless steel making it more durable. Even though some of the hardware used in this machine is less resilient than on most expensive models.
De’Longhi Stilosa
4. Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine
Key Features:
Manufacturer: BrevilleDimensions: 12.7 x 15.5 x 16 inches
Pressure: 9 bars
Machine Type: Automatic
Price Range: $$$$
This automatic espresso machine produces 9-bar extraction for a better brewing experience.
It has an integrated grinder to get the best grind size all the time. Get the freedom to choose from 30 grind levels and five heat settings by using the Barista Pro. Furthermore, the espresso system includes two filter baskets for whole coffee beans and two options for pre-ground coffee.
Simply choose the beverage type from five selections with a predefined setting ideal for making espresso, latte, cappuccino, Americano, and Flat White. The full touch screen user interface is beginners friendly and can be used to adjust consistency, volume, froth texture, and temperature.
Additionally, with the fully automated steam wand, you can produce flawlessly milk foam or smooth latte milk with automatic milk texturing system. The steam wand used here is simple, you can froth milk as per your liking and preferences.
To dial in your preferred brewed setting, we advise experimenting with the options, after getting to know the default settings. Each component is simple to wash, clean, and dry.
Breville Barista Touch
5. Nespresso Vertuo Espresso Machine
Key Features:
Manufacturer: NespressoDimensions: 12 x 8 x 12 inches
Pressure: N/A
Machine Type: N/A
Price Range: $
The Nespresso Vertuo is a great one-touch alternative if you prefer the robust espresso flavor without dealing with coffee grinding and brewing.
It literally just requires pressing a button, to get your preferred drink by using Nespresso Vertuo specialized pods. All these pods are Pre-dosed and recycle-friendly, yet they need to be bought separately every time.
We see numerous Nespresso models available in the market, but this one comes with a removable water tank. It does not have a built-in steam wand or milk frother, yet you can get Nespresso Aeroccino 3 or 4 sold separately.
The Nespresso Vertuo, like all Nespresso makers, is well-known for brewing espresso with consistent taste and even a layer of crema.
Nespresso Vertuo
6. De’Longhi ESAM3300 Magnifica Super Automatic Espresso
Key Features:
Manufacturer: De’LonghiDimensions: 11 x 15.3 x 14.4 inches
Pressure: N/A
Machine Type: Super-automatic
Price Range: $$$
Get a fully-automated bean-to-cup espresso maker for less than the cost of a new smartphone. The Magnifica espresso maker is made to automate the coffee brewing process with minimal user interaction.
Just some beans into the machine hoppers, select the desired settings, and coffee recipe, and start the machine. Its internal grinder puts the freshly grounded coffee in the portafilter, tamps it, and delivers a consistent shot with minimal effort.
With the customizable setting, you can try and test volume and strength until finding the right balance for you.
After the extraction, the machine discards the coffee puck into an inner container, and when it gets full, the machine automatically notifies to empty the container.
It does feature a steam wand, yet for cappuccino, you need to use an external frother for topping.
De’Longhi ESAM3300 Magnifica
7. Philips LatteGo 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine
Key Features:
Manufacturer: PhilipsDimensions: 17 x 10 x 15 inches
Pressure: N/A
Machine Type: Automatic
Price Range: $$$
The Philips LatteGo 32000 series is great if you want complete automation and are ready to pay top dollar for it.
It features, a beautiful control panel, and you can choose between one or two shots of espresso, Americano, latte, cappuccino, coffee, or hot water for tea. The drinks that are made with LatteGo were found delicious and moderately strong. However, you can control the volume, strength, and ground size with customizable setting options.
You don’t have to do anything just fill the bean hopper, milk, and water containers select the drink and LatteGo will do the rest. This machine not only grinds, tamps, and brews your espresso, but it automatically adds frothed milk using the LatteGo milk system.
A milk chamber and filling spouts are placed on the front of the machine making it a unique coffee machine.
Philips LatteGo 3200 Series
8. Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine with Iron Frame
Key Features:
Manufacturer: RancilioDimensions: 9.2 x 11.4 x 13.3 inches
Pressure: 9 bars
Machine Type: Semi-Automatic
Price Range: $$$
Looking for an Italian espresso maker? Rancilio Silvia is an option to consider, it carries a vintage commercial espresso maker look at an affordable price for home baristas.
This particular machine was developed by Racilioa as a prototype to gift their top distributors as an office espresso machine. Yet, this machine maintains a strong steel body that signifies Racilioa’s commitment as a commercial espresso machine manufacturer.
Rancilio machines are made to withstand damage over time, you can expect the same from Silvia because it still has a commercial footprint.
While using it, we found this machine silent and easy to use in comparison to coffee appliances. The company also offers quick and cooperative customer service in case you are looking for parts or want to replace them. Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine is the best choice if you are looking for a heavy-duty yet portable commercial espresso machine.
Rancilio Silvia
9. Keurig K-Cafe Single-Serve K-Cup Coffee Maker
Key Features:
Manufacturer: KeurigDimensions: 17.32 x 14.17 x 14.41 inches
Pressure: N/A
Machine Type: N/A
Price Range: $
Keurig is a special coffee maker that is fully capable of brewing espresso with their espresso-based K-cups.
Looking for the latest Keurig K-Cup machine to replace you’re old Keurig? This Keurig K-Cafe machine is one of the more advanced single-cup coffee makers you can get.
With it you can enjoy by choosing the K-cup you prefer and then select from sizes with 6 oz, 8 oz, 10 oz, or 12 oz servings and coffee strengths.
However, a Keurig has its drawbacks like any other kitchen appliance. It does not deliver that much espresso crema, yet the built-in frother delivers hot and cold milk froth for hot or iced coffee.
We use the 6 oz Espresso Roast K-cup in the review, the flavor and strength of the drink are best for medium-strong espresso lovers.
Keurig K-Cafe Coffee Maker
10. Flair Signature Manual Lever / Piston Espresso Maker
Key Features:
Manufacturer: FlairDimensions: 13.39 x 10.35 x 3.98 inches
Pressure: N/A
Machine Type: Manual
Price Range: $$
Pulling an espresso shot manually has a sense of satisfaction to it. The Flair Signature Espresso Maker allows you to relive that experience, just like a professional.
This machine has no boiler or steamer, it provides complete manual experience from grinding, temping, and then extracting
You simply fill used it as recommended by the manufacturer with grounded coffee and hot water, then apply a good press to extract espresso.
With this machine, you can maintain the highest level of consistency with each extraction by using the pressure gauge that is included. This manual espresso machine is best for people who are looking for a portable lightweight option, yet not for those who prefer a quick solution.
Keurig K-Cafe Coffee Maker
What to Look for While Buying an Espresso Machine
There are multiple factors you should think about before buying one of the best espresso machines available.
After all, this isn’t a cheap investment; it will undoubtedly take a considerable sum of money in addition to a sizable counter space in the kitchen. Yet buying an espresso machine is not that hard if you are an informed buyer. In our series of tests, we looked thoroughly into the features of 20 espresso machines in a period of 10 days.
During that time we compare the taste, heating time, ease of use, and crema quality made by various espresso makers to identify the best performers.
Popular types
The first point to think about while looking for espresso machines is the type that suits your needs.
Whether to prefer a machine that is automatic with an installed grinder, or a typical semi-automatic hands-on machine that requires a portafilter and basket. There are some new technologies like a cup or capsule-based espresso machines that are super easy to use.
Compact Size
Space is a crucial factor in this situation. Getting a machine that is too bulky may result in less counter space for cooking-related tasks in the kitchen.
Therefore before buying consider the size of an espresso machine, and the space you are willing to compromise for espresso brewing. Be aware that giving too much counter space may hinder your cooking experience and accommodate other appliances.
Affordability
Espresso machine does not come cheap, yet this doesn’t necessarily mean spending thousands of dollar to leverage truly fantastic shot of espresso. However, expensive machines do offer a variety of added features and functionality.
Decide first if you can compromise on those features. If all you need is a finely brewed espresso shot, even a manual espresso maker can do that. For latte enthusiasts, get a machine with a steam wand but it will increase the cost.
Read More: Why Are Espresso Machines Expensive?
Heating Time
Heat-up time for an espresso machine is the important feature in my opinion. A machine that takes a lot of time to brew espresso can make you late for the office or college. The optimal warm-up time for an espresso machine is 3 to 5 minutes before brewing. An appliance taking more than that will probably have too much heating time.
Pressure
You should invest in an espresso machine that can hit 9 bars of pressure at least. When making socialized drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, or mochas. Opt for a dual boiler feature. This system will help you brew the coffee and steam milk simultaneously.
Simplicity
It is not that difficult to clean espresso machines, the modern technology used in these machines allows them to sustain hundreds of shots before needing to be properly descaled. For the complete descaling process refer to the user manual and act accordingly.
However, you need to clean the machine’s drip tray or discard the used coffee pucks or pods on regular basis. Some machines have large drip trays that can be a bit hassle to clean. Also, look for a machine with a user-friendly control panel and settings.
Benefits of Using an Espresso Machine
Learning how to brew espresso at home can become a lifetime hobby and a passion. Here are some reasons why you should get an espresso machine at home or at your office:
- Brewing process and operating an espresso machine is an in-demand skills.
- Taking a hot fulfilling cup of espresso can improve your mood at home or in the office.
- Brew espresso or prepare a latte with a push of a button, get a super-automatic espresso machine.
- It will save you the time and money spent at a local coffee shop.
- With a home brewing machine, you try different espresso recipes.
- Get the title of being a “Home Barista” and an ultimate party host.
FAQs
Final Thoughts
The taste of the perfect espresso shot may differ from person to person. Some people prefer milky lattes others like diluted Caffè Americano, the best espresso machines can deliver both.
When deciding how much to spend on an espresso machine is a personal preference. Buyers must also look into counter space, and ease of use as well.
But what if you regularly spend $6 on lattes at your preferred coffee shop It will cost you $2,190 per year. Well, in this case purchasing an espresso machine seem a wise decision.
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