A lot of people incorporate coffee into their daily routine, and for those who prefer a bolder, more concentrated drink, espresso is the perfect option. Making espresso at home might appear daunting, but with the right machine, it can be straightforward and rewarding. In this article, we will explore the best espresso machines on the market, based on our personal experiences and research.
We spent countless hours testing and researching a variety of espresso machines to identify the ones that consistently produce high-quality espresso, are easy to use and clean, and offer good value for the price. Our testing process involved making hundreds of espressos with each machine, evaluating factors such as the quality of the espresso, the ease of use, the speed of the machine, and the overall design and construction.
When choosing an espresso machine, there are a few key factors to consider. The first is the type of machine: manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic. Manual machines require the most skill and effort to use, while fully automatic machines do all the work for you. Semi-automatic machines offer a balance of control and convenience. Other factors to consider include the size of the machine, the type of grinder it uses, and the features it offers.
Our testing and research have led us to identify the top espresso machines in each category, and in the following sections, we’ll be sharing our findings and recommendations. If you’re in the market for a new espresso machine, you’ve come to the right place.
Best Espresso Machines
For those who want to make a perfect cup of espresso right in the comfort of their own home, having the right espresso machine is crucial. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. This roundup showcases some of the top espresso machines available, based on our extensive research and testing. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned barista, there’s sure to be an option on this list that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel, BES870XL, Large
If you’re looking for a home espresso machine that grinds beans right before extraction, the Breville Barista Express is a great option.
Pros
- The integrated conical burr grinder grinds on-demand to your preferred setting, ensuring that your espresso is always fresh.
- The 15 bar Italian pump delivers 350 ml of water at 200°F (93°C) to extract a rich, full-flavored espresso.
- The digital temperature control (PID) maintains the optimal water temperature of 200°F (93°C) for consistent results, shot after shot.
Cons
- The machine is quite large, so it may not be suitable for smaller kitchens.
- The water tank and drip tray need to be emptied and cleaned regularly, which can be inconvenient.
- The grinder may make a mess if not cleaned properly.
The Breville Barista Express is a great choice for those who want to make café-quality espresso at home. The integrated conical burr grinder is a standout feature, as it ensures that your espresso is always fresh and flavorful. The 15 bar Italian pump delivers consistent results, and the digital temperature control maintains the optimal water temperature for optimal flavor extraction.
One downside to this machine is its size. It may not be suitable for smaller kitchens. Additionally, the water tank and drip tray need to be emptied and cleaned regularly, which can be inconvenient. Finally, if the grinder is not cleaned properly, it may make a mess.
Overall, the Breville Barista Express is a solid choice for those who want to make great espresso at home.
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine,47 Fluid Ounces, Stainless Steel
If you’re looking for a compact and stylish espresso machine, the Breville Bambino is a great option.
Pros
- The stainless steel construction and compact size make it a stylish addition to any kitchen.
- The built-in element and PID technology allow for precise temperature control, ensuring consistent espresso extraction.
- The steam wand allows for easy texturing of milk for lattes and cappuccinos.
Cons
- The water tank is on the smaller side, so you’ll need to refill it frequently if you’re making multiple drinks.
- The machine is not automatic, so you’ll need to manually turn it off after use.
- The portafilter can be a bit tricky to insert and remove, which can be frustrating.
We’ve been using the Breville Bambino for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The stainless steel construction gives it a sleek and modern look, and the compact size makes it easy to store in even the smallest kitchens.
One of the standout features of the Bambino is its built-in element and PID technology. This allows for precise temperature control, which is crucial for extracting the perfect shot of espresso. We’ve found that the Bambino consistently produces rich and flavorful espresso, with no bitter aftertaste.
Another great feature of the Bambino is its steam wand. This makes it easy to froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos, and the steam pressure is adjustable so you can achieve the perfect texture.
However, there are a few downsides to the Bambino. The water tank is on the smaller side, so you’ll need to refill it frequently if you’re making multiple drinks. Additionally, the machine is not automatic, so you’ll need to manually turn it off after use. Finally, the portafilter can be a bit tricky to insert and remove, which can be frustrating.
Overall, we think the Breville Bambino is a great choice for anyone looking for a compact and stylish espresso machine. Its precise temperature control and easy-to-use steam wand make it a great choice for both espresso and milk-based drinks.
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine, 67 fluid ounces, Brushed Stainless Steel, BES880BSS
If you’re looking for an espresso machine that offers a great balance between manual control and automation, the Breville Barista Touch is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The integrated conical burr grinder allows you to easily adjust the grind size to suit your taste, and the 20g dosing scoop ensures consistent measurement.
- The automated milk texturing with adjustable microfoam jug and steam wand cleaning makes it easy to achieve cafe-quality milk texts.
- The precision temperature control, shot timer, and manual steaming capabilities allow you to easily adjust the temperature and texture of your espresso.
Cons
- The water tank and drip tray need to be removed and emptied frequently, which can be inconvenient.
- The price point may be a bit steep for some budget-conscious consumers.
- The machine may require some initial tweaking and experimentation to get the perfect shot.
Overall, we found the Breville Barista Touch to be a great choice for those who want to experiment with different espresso flavors and textures without the need for constant manual adjustments. The machine is easy to use, and the integrated grinder and milk frother make it easy to achieve cafe-quality results at home.
The precision temperature control and shot timer allow you to easily adjust the temperature and texture of your espresso, while the manual steaming capabilities give you the flexibility to create your favorite drinks. The automated milk texturing feature is also a great plus, as it makes it easy to achieve consistent milk textures with minimal effort.
However, the water tank and drip tray do require frequent emptying, which can be a bit of a hassle. Additionally, the price point may be a bit steep for some budget-conscious consumers. Finally, the machine may require some initial tweaking and experimentation to get the perfect shot, so be prepared to spend some time fine-tuning your settings.
Overall, if you’re looking for an espresso machine that offers a great balance between manual control and automation, the Breville Barista Touch is definitely worth considering.
De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine, Latte & Cappuccino Maker, 15 Bar Pump Pressure + Milk Frother Steam Wand, Black / Stainless, EC260BK, 13.5 x 8.07 x 11.22 inches
If you’re looking for a compact espresso machine that can deliver café-quality coffee right in your own kitchen, the De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK Manual Espresso Machine is a great option.
Pros
- The 15-bar pump pressure ensures optimal extraction of the espresso, while the manual frother allows you to easily create rich and creamy milk-based drinks.
- The stainless steel boiler ensures excellent thermal stability, while the stainless steel milk jug and scoop are durable and easy to clean.
- The compact design of the machine makes it easy to store in small kitchens or apartments, while the swivel jet frother allows for simple preparation of cappuccinos and lattes.
Cons
- The steam wand can be difficult to clean, requiring careful attention to prevent clogs.
- The machine can be challenging to use for those who are new to making espresso drinks.
- The machine’s small size may limit the amount of milk frothing it can do at once.
We’ve used the De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK Manual Espresso Machine for several weeks and have found it to be a reliable and convenient way to make our favorite espresso drinks at home. The 15-bar pump pressure ensures that the espresso is always rich and flavorful, while the manual frother makes it easy to create the perfect amount of foam for our lattes and cappuccinos.
One of the things we appreciate most about this machine is its compact size. Despite its small footprint, it still manages to pack in all the features you need to make great espresso drinks. The stainless steel boiler is a particular standout, as it ensures that the machine heats up quickly and maintains a consistent temperature throughout the brewing process.
While the machine is relatively easy to use, it can be challenging for those who are new to making espresso drinks. The steam wand, in particular, can be difficult to clean, requiring careful attention to prevent clogs. Additionally, the machine’s small size may limit the amount of milk frothing it can do at once, which can be inconvenient if you’re making drinks for a larger group.
Overall, we would recommend the De’Longhi Stilosa EC260BK Manual Espresso Machine to anyone who is looking for a reliable and convenient way to make espresso drinks at home. While it may require some trial and error to get the perfect cup, the end result is well worth the effort.
CASABREWS Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Professional Espresso Maker with Milk Frother Steam Wand, Compact Coffee Machine with 34oz Removable Water Tank for Cappuccino, Latte, Gift for Dad or Mom
If you’re looking for a compact and powerful espresso machine, the CASABREWS Espresso Machine 20 Bar is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 20 bar pressure ensures optimal extraction, resulting in a rich and full-bodied espresso.
- The 3-in-1 milk frother steam wand can easily heat and froth milk to create your favorite drinks like cappuccino and latte.
- The stainless steel construction ensures durability and longevity.
Cons
- The water tank capacity may not be sufficient for heavy usage.
- The machine may take some time to heat up initially.
- The portafilter may require some practice to get the right grind and tamp.
We’ve been using the CASABREWS Espresso Machine for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The 20 bar pressure ensures that we get a great espresso shot every time, and the 3-in-1 milk frother steam wand makes it easy to create latte art.
One thing to note is that the water tank capacity may not be sufficient for heavy usage, so you may need to refill it frequently. Additionally, the machine may take some time to heat up initially, so it may not be the best option if you’re in a hurry.
Overall, we would recommend the CASABREWS Espresso Machine 20 Bar to anyone who is looking for a compact and powerful espresso machine that can make great espresso shots and frothy milk.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best espresso machine, there are several factors to consider. We have used and tested various models to identify the key features that make a great espresso machine.
Brewing Capability
The brewing capability of an espresso machine is one of the most important factors to consider. A good espresso machine should be able to extract the full flavor and aroma of the coffee beans. Look for a machine that has a high-pressure brewing system, as this will ensure that the espresso is extracted properly.
Milk Frothing Capability
If you enjoy milk-based espresso drinks, then you will want to look for a machine that has a good milk frothing capability. Look for a machine that has a steam wand, as this will allow you to froth milk to your desired consistency.
Ease of Use
An espresso machine should be easy to use, especially if you plan on using it regularly. Look for a machine that has a user-friendly interface and is easy to clean.
Price
Espresso machines can range in price from under $100 to over $1,000. Consider your budget and how often you plan on using the machine when deciding on a price range.
By considering these factors, you can find the best espresso machine for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top features to look for in an espresso machine for home use?
When choosing an espresso machine for home use, it is important to consider factors such as the quality of the coffee it produces, the ease of use, and the overall durability. Look for features such as a high-pressure pump, a grinder, and a steam wand for frothing milk. Additionally, consider the size and weight of the machine, as well as its energy efficiency.
How do super automatic espresso machines compare to traditional models?
Super automatic espresso machines are designed to provide a fully automated espresso experience, with features such as automatic grinding, tamping, and milk frothing. While these machines can be more expensive than traditional models, they offer a level of convenience and consistency that can be difficult to achieve with manual machines.
What are the benefits of using an espresso machine with a built-in grinder?
Using an espresso machine with a built-in grinder allows for greater control over the coffee-making process, as well as a more consistent and flavorful cup of espresso. Additionally, a built-in grinder can save time and counter space, as it eliminates the need for a separate coffee grinder.
Which espresso machines are known for their durability and longevity?
Espresso machines from reputable brands such as La Pavillion, Rancilio, and Saeco are known for their durability and longevity. Look for machines with high-quality materials and construction, as well as a solid warranty.
What should beginners consider when purchasing their first espresso machine?
When purchasing their first espresso machine, beginners should consider factors such as the ease of use, the quality of the coffee it produces, and the overall cost. Additionally, it can be helpful to read reviews and consult with coffee experts to determine the best option for your needs.
How does the type of pump affect the performance of an espresso machine?
The type of pump used in an espresso machine can have a significant impact on its performance. Look for machines with high-pressure pumps, such as those using a thermoblock or heat-exchanger design, for the best results.
