Are you a true coffee aficionado? And are you looking for the best espresso machine for the money in 2023? Then, you’re in the right place. The best home espresso machines we have listed can help you get everything from a breakfast latte to a mid-day cappuccino to an after-dinner espresso. But knowing how to choose the right espresso machine model can be quite difficult because there are many options on the market with prices ranging from less than a hundred to thousands of dollars.
Thankfully, our experts have done the hard work for you. We have researched the marketplace for dozens of days, taking into account the pros and cons of each design, and have put our favorites on the list. We’re pretty sure these are the best espresso machines that you can’t miss in 2023.
Quick Recommendations
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Best Espresso Machine Overall: Breville Bambino Plus
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Customizable Automatic Espresso Maker: De’Longhi La Specialista Maestro
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Best High-end Espresso Machine: Breville Oracle Touch
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Best-looking Home Espresso Machine: Ascaso Steel PID Programmable Machine
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Best Manual Espresso Machine: Microcasa a Leva Espresso Machine
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Best Espresso Machine For The Money: Philips 3200 Series
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Best All-In-One Espresso Maker: Miele CM6350 Coffee Machine
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Best Designed Espresso Machine: Rancilio Silvia
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Best Single Serve Espresso Machine: Breville Nespresso Creatista
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Best Compact Espresso Machine: Jura A1 Super Automatic Coffee Machine
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Best Stainless Steel Espresso Machine: Gaggia Classic Pro
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Best Budget Espresso Machine: Smeg Espresso Machine
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Best Espresso Machine for Beginners: Cuisinart Programmable Espresso Maker
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Best Capsule Espresso Machine: Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine
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Best Commercial Espresso Machine: La Pavoni BAR-T 2 Group
15 Best Espresso Machines of 2023
1. Breville Bambino Plus – Best Espresso Machine Overall
Feature Summary
- Dimensions: 7 ¾ W x 12 ½ D x 12 ¼ H Inches
- Tank capacity: 64 oz.
- Weight: 11 lbs.
- 54mm Porta-filter
The Breville Bambino Plus features a stainless-steel construction, which means it’s more durable than its plastic competitors. It’s among the narrowest of Breville’s espresso machines, so it should fit on the tight counters. Among its unique selling points, including the quick 3-second heat-up time, thanks to the innovative thermojet heating technology.
Users also love that the appliance comes with an automatic steam wand for milk texturing. You can effortlessly adjust the milk texture and temperature to your preference. Breville is known for its consistent, top-quality shot pulling abilities, and this model is not an exception.
It comes with a 54mm porta-filter that extracts the full flavor. You can select a single shot or double shot, thanks to the 15-bar pump and Digital Temperature Control. The pre-infusion function helps to increase the water pressure consistently for an even extraction. The company offers a 2-year warranty on the product and boasts one of the best customer services in the country. The espresso machine also features a 360-degree steam wand that supplies high-pressure steam to froth your milk into a fine texture. The wand is easy and safe to use even for beginners, and you can quickly clean it under running water.
Pros:
- PID temperature control.
- Ensures maximum extraction.
- Large capacity tank.
- It has a sleek design.
- 360-degree high-pressure steam wand.
Cons:
- It lacks an integrated grinder.
2. De’Longhi La Specialista Maestro – Customizable Automatic Espresso Maker
Feature Summary
- Material: Stainless steel
- Capacity: 100 milliliters
- Programmable
- Type: Semi-automatic
De’Longhi La Specialista is a superb machine that looks stylish and brews coffee perfectly. The fully stainless-steel machine incorporates a grinder, milk frothing wand, and smart tamper. The machine has everything you need making it one of the best coffee makers in its price. Users appreciate that this espresso machine maintains the temperature throughout the brewing process.
The La Specialista comes with a smart dual heating system that keeps the temperature at the required level of up to 205 degrees, suitable for different kinds of coffee. It also boasts the pre-infusion technology that’s essential for brewing flavorful coffee. Users can choose between 5 temperature settings depending on bean type.
The tamper works better than in most models because it leaves no mess at all. Also, you do not have to worry about using special techniques because the smart tamper stops working once it detects the dose is perfect. You also don’t have a hard time cleaning the smart tamper.
Pros:
- It offers three heating levels.
- It has a convenient smart tamp system.
- Has dedicated spouts.
- Easy to set up.
- Straightforward to clean.
- Looks premium.
Cons:
- The steamer wand articulates relatively less.
3. Breville Oracle Touch – Best High-end Espresso Machine
Feature Summary
- Weight: 17 kg.
- Dimensions: 14.7 X 14.5 X 17.6 Inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- Tank capacity: 85 oz.
- 58mm Portafilter.
Among our favorites on this list is the Breville Oracle Touch, which is fully automatic with a convenient screen. The machine is integrated with a burr grinder that ensures a consistent grind to extract maximum flavor. Apart from this, the temperature and brewing pressure are automatically controlled by the dual boiler construction, pre-infusion, and digital temperature control systems.
Like every other Breville creation, the Oracle Touch is a sight to behold, featuring a neat stainless-steel design that will elevate your kitchen. The machine can store up to 2.5 liters of water, making it suitable for a household with a couple or several coffee drinkers.
The Oracle Touch also comes with an automated self-cleaning steam wand with its own dedicated boiler. Although everything is not hands-free, the brewing process using this machine has been simplified in a way anyone can brew. It’s no doubt among the best super-automatic espresso machines because you just press a button to get a quality drink. It can even work as the best commercial espresso machine in your small café.
Pros:
- It’s highly automated at every stage.
- It’s well built and looks appealing.
- Has touch interface with manual guidance.
- It’s easy to operate.
- Dual boiler allows steaming and brewing at the same time.
Cons:
- It is relatively expensive.
- Not compact.
4. Ascaso Steel PID Programmable Machine – Best-looking Home Espresso Machine
Feature Summary
- Type: Manual espresso machine
- Voltage: 110v
- Weight: 24 pounds
- 49mm portafilter
The Ascaso Steel PID espresso machine boasts a durable build and a stunning performance. It’s a great option in an office setting and even small coffee shops. This machine is built using high-quality aluminum, brass, and stainless steel to ensure years of use. The Thermoblock system allows unlimited steaming and consistent heating at reduced power use.
The brand used the PID temperature control system that allows you to operate a whole range of functions like temperature, steam, pre-infusion time, set the dose timer, and enable standby mode. To complement the PID system, the design features physical toggle switches, volumetric dosing, and more. No more removing the panels to adjust the pressure because the machine has an overpressure valve that can be manipulated using a screwdriver. The 58mm group portafilter allows you to use a range of aftermarket accessories, including dispersion screens and replacement gaskets.
Pros:
- It has a quality construction featuring durable materials.
- Programmable for a single and double shot.
- Powerful steam supply with constant pressure.
- 5-year warranty on the Thermoblock.
- It’s affordable.
Cons:
- Slow 3-minute warm-up.
5. Microcasa a Leva Espresso Machine – Best Manual Espresso Machine
Feature Summary
- Material: Brass
- Base: 10-inch diameter
- Type: manual (lever)
- Weight: 22 lbs.
If you love beautiful, efficient coffee makers no matter the cost, then you can check out the Elektra Microcasa a Leva. This lever espresso machine has a stunning brass finish that will enhance any room. Although the price is way over $1000, it’s well worth the price.
A superb feature of this machine is the pressure gauge that displays the pressure inside the boiler and indicates the time you can expect the brewing of the espresso to take. It also features a built-in thermostat which enhances heating while also contributing to safety.
Elektra also designed the boiler in a way it releases super dry steam to ensure the perfect foam in your cappuccinos. The water reservoir has a 2L capacity and is easy to refill. Controlling the Elektra espresso is easy with the three switches for power, coffee brews, and boiler refill. The steam valve employs a knob, which is easy to turn on and off.
Pros:
- Beautiful design.
- User-friendly design.
- Assembly is straightforward.
- Extracts the perfect latte art.
- Heat management along with bar pressure speed up the brewing.
Cons:
- Quite pricey.
6. Philips 3200 Series – Best Espresso Machine For The Money
Feature Summary
- Capacity: 5 cups
- Programming: fully automatic
- Temperature control: dual boiler
- Material: plastic
The Philips 3200 series espresso machine efficiently brews aromatic coffee varieties right from your kitchen countertop. The unit is excellent for cappuccino, latte macchiato, and espresso, all of which you can brew at the touch of a button. The fully automatic espresso machine can quickly brew up to five coffees in no time.
Philips integrates a LatteGo system with each of these espresso machines. This mixes the milk with air at high speed in the frothing chamber to provide splash-free creamy milk froth. The unit has durable ceramic grinders that you can adjust in twelve steps from ultra-fine to coarse grinding. The pure ceramic is rated for up to 20,000 cups of coffee.
This unit has an aroma extract system that intelligently balances the brewing conditions to provide the most natural aroma and at the most optimal temperature. The LatteGo system is straightforward to clean as it has no hidden parts, and you can clean it under running water.
Philips includes an AquaClean descaler that can filter water for up to 5000 cups. The brew group is also easy to remove and clean under running water. You can keep your beans fresh with the aroma seal while also silencing the grinder noise.
In terms of convenience, you can put the entire milk system, coffee ground container, and drip tray in the dishwasher to save time on cleanups. The unit has an intuitive touch display that allows you to select your favorite brew and customize automatic settings. My coffee choice menu will enable you to adjust various strength and quantity parameters for your favorite brews.
Pros:
- It has a compact design in a small form factor that doesn’t sacrifice functionality.
- It’s easy to use and clean.
- You can preset your preferred brew temperature.
- The included water filter lasts for a long time, preventing the need to descale often.
Cons:
- The espresso machine automatically rinses every time you turn it off and on, requiring frequent refills.
7. Miele CM6350 Coffee Machine – Best All-In-One Espresso Maker
Feature Summary
- Capacity: 8 cups
- Voltage: 1500 watts
- Programmable
- Material: plastic
There is nothing like a good morning start with your favorite cup of coffee. The CM6350 countertop machine from the German-based appliance manufacturers serves all your coffee brews to perfection. A quiet grinder, unlike many machines, is made from wear-resistant steel.
The machine comes with instructions to make operations easy and a glass-milk container. The Excellency of blending power for this machine is immeasurable. Two of your favorite types of coffee can be made at once because of this appliance. One can save up to 10 different types of coffee.
It is easy to wash because it is dishwasher safe, and the milk pipe automatically cleans after every brewing. Appearances are always essential and this machine is visually attractive with a classical design. An advanced mechanism where one can select the amount of coffee, ground level, temperature level, milk level, and water amount to an exact personal choice. This information saved no worries about your cup of coffee’s perfection in less time henceforth. The taste of the coffee brewed in this machine is industrial grade.
Pros:
- Silent grinding.
- Unmatched taste quality.
- A massive saving of up to 10 settings.
- The personalized setting of a preferred type.
- Has a self-cleaning mechanism.
Cons:
- Quite expensive.
- A bit hard to operate.
8. Rancilio Silvia – Best Designed Espresso Machine
Feature Summary
- Capacity: 12 ounces
- Types: manual
- Temperature control: single boiler
- Material: stainless steel
If you are shopping for a home espresso machine that will consistently brew you a great cup, then the Rancilio Silvia is your best go-to choice. The Rancilio brand has over 90 years of the coffee grind and brewing track record. It’s a combination of reliability, durability, and hints of vintage Italian charm that stands out at this price point.
The espresso machine has a sturdy stainless-steel casing and burly brass components that are safe and durable for prolonged use.
This espresso machine features a three-way solenoid that prevents portafilter sneezes by purging excess pressure and controlling backflushing. Its compact and minimalistic design fits ideally on any kitchen counter.
The espresso machine has a small but mighty 58 mm bottomless portafilter that reduces metal contact keeping the espresso at an optimal temperature. The water tank is fixed on the back of the unit, and it’s easy to pull upwards and out to clean.
Pros:
- The unit has four rocker switches to control the steam and hot water levels quickly.
- Has a drip-free cup tray.
- Comes with a hefty wooden handle tamper.
Cons:
- You will have to temperature surf while using the unit to brew while also producing steam for milk frothing.
9. Breville Nespresso Creatista – Best Single Serve Espresso Machine
Feature Summary
- Capacity: 1.5 liters
- Programming: semi-automatic
- Temperature control: dual boiler
- Material: stainless steel
Breville Nespresso Creatista is your answer to authentic top-quality espresso brewing needs. With this unit, you can brew top-shelf latte art coffee with a combination of milk texturing technology and temperature control.
The espresso machine has an intuitive user interface on an HD screen that allows you to program some of the automatic presets. It also guides you on all maintenance, preparation, and settings aspects. Its robust design with a brushed steel finish will fit in perfectly on any interior decor.
Breville also includes a steam pipe for all your milk frothing needs, and the dual boiler setup ensures that the machine maintains constant espresso temperatures at all times.
The setup also includes a stainless-steel barista jug with a pour spout designed for latte art. The 50.7 ounces water tank has enough capacity for a few days’ worths of brew.
Pros:
- The espresso machine has a descaling alarm.
- The used capsule container can hold up to twelve of them.
- The machine allows you to program the cup sizes.
- Three seconds heat-up time for instant brews.
Cons:
- Some customers complained about the sliding drip tray getting loose over time.
10. Jura A1 Super Automatic Coffee Machine – Best Compact Espresso Machine
Feature Summary
- Capacity: 4 ounces
- Programming: super-automatic
- Temperature control: dual boiler
- Material: stainless steel
Jura’s A1 super-automatic coffee machine offers sophisticated elegance in a compact design focusing on delivering exceptional brewing results. This Slimline one-cup machine is everything a coffee purist desires, and it will fit perfectly on any countertop.
This coffee machine has a pulse extraction process that optimizes the brewing process to produce the best tasting espresso and ristretto, as well as other short specialty brews. The multi-level aroma grinder provides optimally ground coffee while preserving the aroma. To perfect this, the cutting angle is adjusted inside the grinding cone to grind the coffee beans efficiently.
The Operating panel provides one-touch controls to brew your specialty coffee as fast as possible quickly. You can program the cup sizes and coffee strengths as well as set the automatic energy-saving mode.
Pros:
- The single-cup brew provides ideal brewing conditions for an outstanding barista quality.
- The grinder has an optimized cutting angle to preserve the aroma.
- The compact design saves up on kitchen countertop space.
Cons:
- The lid easily breaks when dropped.
11. Gaggia Classic Pro – Best Stainless Steel Espresso Machine
Feature Summary
- Semi-automatic espresso machine
- Commercial style-wand
- Compatible with ESE pods and ground coffee
- Excellent milk frothing
- Made of premium stainless steel
If you are searching for a durable, proven home espresso machine on the market, the Gaggia Classic Pro is worth consideration. The machine will help you make barista-café style coffees in the comfort of your kitchen.
The machine boasts of unique features including having a 58mm commercial-style portafilter, meaning that it can hold a greater capacity of coffee grounds, which is a good thing for people who like to take concentrated espressos. You’ll find both single and double filter baskets, with the single basket holding 8-10 grams of ground coffee and the double shot basket holding 16-22 grams.
The Espresso machine has both pressurized and unpressurized filter baskets to give you a greater degree of control over the concentration of your espresso.
The coffee maker has a built-in steam wand that allows one to steam and froth milk to create microfoam. This is useful for people who create latte arts.
Another outstanding feature that makes this the best espresso machine in its category is the large 72-ounce water reservoir that allows you to store water for future brews.
The espresso machine has a 3-way solenoid valve that ensures you make your coffee in a cleaner and easier manner.
In addition, it has dual heating elements, meaning it heats up faster – you can brew a cup of concentrated coffee in five minutes.
For durability and robustness, the machine is made of brushed stainless steel. The material also gives it a modern, elegant look, thus making it perfect for your kitchen countertop.
Additionally, the Gaggia Coffee Maker has three switches for three main operations. There’s the on/off switch, brew switch, and steam switch.
Pros:
- Has a large water reservoir.
- Fast heat-up time.
- Quiet operation.
- Durable and sturdy thanks to the stainless steel construction.
- Easy to use and thus ideal for newbies.
- Equipped with pressured and unpressurized filter baskets.
- Has a commercial-grade steam wand.
Cons:
- Takes up a lot of counter space and thus is not ideal for small kitchens.
- Cannot fit big coffee mugs.
12. Smeg Espresso Machine – Best Budget Espresso Machine
Feature Summary
- Milk frother for making milky drinks
- Manual steam pipe
- Compatible with ESE pods and ground coffee
- 1-liter water capacity
- Two years guarantee
The Smeg ECF01 Espresso Coffee maker is a medium-sized appliance with a retro-classic look. Smeg is known to make appliances with retro styles, and this coffee maker is a reflection of their much-adored 1950s style. Despite it being a relatively new espresso on the market, the coffee machine is already making a name.
The Smeg ECF01 Espresso Coffee is a manual machine, meaning that you’ll need to have pre-ground coffee beans to make a cup of coffee. As a manual machine, you’ll need to fill the filter and tamp the coffee, then steam the milk too. Smeg ECF01 offers the controllability that you need.
It only features three buttons for setting the volume, temperature, and concentration of your coffee. The good thing is that it’ll remember your preference.
The simple lever design of this machine makes the steam wand easy to use. In an added twist, the Smeg ECF01 also has the option of using ground coffee and Easy Serving Espresso pods (ESE).
The coffee maker has also a manual milk frother that heats up fast and makes textured, frothy milk ideal for cappuccino, macchiato, and latte.
Overall, this manual coffee maker is easy to use, beautiful and produces excellent coffee. Plated with stainless steel, this machine is available in a wide array of vintage colors and is great for a small kitchen.
Pros:
- Stylish and compact.
- Simple to set up and use.
- Fast heat-up period.
- Can make two cups simultaneously.
- Two years guarantee.
- 1-liter removable tank.
- Professional-grade water pump pressure.
Cons:
- Pricey compared to equivalent espresso machines.
- Lacks a water filter.
- Limited functionalities.
13. Cuisinart Programmable Espresso Maker – Best Espresso Machine for Beginners
Feature Summary
- 15 bars of pressure
- Can use either pods or espresso
- Portafilter holder with a locking mechanism
- 69-ounce removable reservoir
Cuisinart has made a name in the appliance niche as they make authentic and reliable espressos. The EM-200NP1 espresso maker is for people who enjoy making freshly brewed coffee from the comfort of their homes. Not only is this a pocket-friendly appliance that allows you to brew both single and double shots, but can also help you make frothed milk.
Making espresso with this coffee maker is quite straightforward as it features six backlit buttons, labeled manual brewing, power, 1-cup, 2-cup, steam, and programming. The button flashes in sequence when the machine is heating up to the desired temperature.
There are two programmable brewing buttons – one for manual brewing and the options to use ESE pods and ground coffee.
In addition, there’s an adjustable steam wand that allows you to choose between different functionalities, including foaming and frothing milk. The adjustable steam wand makes it possible for you to make other unique coffee varieties such as latte, macchiato, and cappuccino.
When it comes to making espresso coffee varieties, pressure plays a crucial role in ensuring all the finest flavors from coffee beans are extracted. The 15-bar pump pressure in this Cuisinart EM-200NP1 espresso machine allows one to extract the best flavor from coffee beans and produces a thick cream.
Another outstanding feature of this appliance is that it has a 69-ounce water reservoir that provides enough water for several cycles. The fact that it’s removable makes it easier to clean.
For safety, Cuisinart used BPA-free construction materials. Cuisinart EM-200NP1 has a stainless-steel steam nozzle that makes it durable as well.
In addition, the EM-200NP1 uses a single boiler and has a heat exchanger to pump water through the machine. The water is heated to reach brewing temperature before passing over the filter and into a cup.
Pros:
- Has built-in milk frother.
- Durable and reliable.
- Feature a removable water reservoir.
- Can use ground coffee and ESE pods.
- Sturdy construction.
Cons:
- Can be somehow noisy.
- The machine is enormous.
14. Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine – Best Capsule Espresso Machine
Feature Summary
- 19 bar pressure
- Eco made
- Compact
- Fast-heat uptime
- 1310 watts
If you are looking for a machine that doesn’t compromise on the quality of your coffee and efficiency, this mini espresso machine by Breville is worth consideration. Let’s look at the features.
The Essenza Mini performs at 19-bars pressure, which is enough to extract all the flavors out of your preferred pod.
The pod machine can get your quality coffee without hands-on involvement on your part and will get the job done in under 30 seconds.
The 0.6-liter water reservoir may look small at first glance, but keep in mind that you’re using this appliance to make smaller drinks.
In terms of design, Nespresso Essenza Mini has a striking appearance and thus will add some class to your kitchen.
Another outstanding feature is its programmability – although it’s easy to use, this coffee machine offers some degree of flexibility thanks to its two different settings.
The auto shut-off features mean that you won’t have to worry about shutting it off as the machine will enter eco mode after nine minutes of being not used.
Overall, if you’re looking for a machine that can make you great coffee with as little fuss as possible, the Nespresso Essenza Mini is a solid choice. Yes, it restricts you to only using coffee pods, but there is a huge range of options to experiment with.
Pros:
- Can use 3rd party capsules.
- Solidly built.
- Compact and lightweight.
- You can adjust brew size thanks to the one-touch sizing system.
Cons:
- Inconsistent pressure.
- Small water reservoir.
15. La Pavoni BAR-T 2 Group – Best Commercial Espresso Machine
Feature Summary
- Capacity: 14 liters
- Voltage: 240 Volts
- Programmable
- Material: copper, glass, and brass
La Pavoni espresso machines are forged from brass with chrome plating to create the classic utilitarian look. Its vertical infusion chamber is paired to a pressurization system to brew an aroma-infused brew.
The espresso machine has a copper boiler with transversal heat exchangers with front injectors for every group. The radiator has an independent hydraulic system that serves every group and a double scale gauge for boiler pressure control if you need to manually reset the safety thermostat in the electrical heating.
La Pavoni espresso machines have anti-vacuum valves and automatic water levels for quick brewing with up to 14 letters in the boiler.
Pros:
- The unit has a dedicated hot water tap with an adjustable jet.
- Has an internal electric pump with an anti-vacuum valve.
- The boiler has transversal heat exchangers.
- Has a double scale gauge for boiler pressure control.
Cons:
- You have to install the water softener on the incoming water line manually.
Best Espresso Machine Buying Guide
What Is Espresso?
If you are a coffee aficionado, you’re most likely have wondered what espresso is and how it’s different from coffee. Well, here’s a simple definition and difference.
Espresso refers to the concentrated coffee prepared by forcing water through ground coffee beans. It’s robust and concentrated and has a rich aroma.
However, it’s important to mention that not all concentrated coffee beverage is espresso. True espresso has to be prepared using 200ºF water temperature, and nine bars of pressure applied when getting extracted in 25 to 30 seconds. This process is what is differentiate espresso from coffee.
The best espresso machines have to meet these criteria for your beverage to taste great.
Types of Espresso Machines
If you love espresso and are in the market looking for an espresso machine, you may not know where to start. The right way to approach the buying process is to get informed about espresso machines. Our espresso machine buying guide section discusses the main types of espresso machines you can find on the market. Understanding the different espresso machines will help you make an informed decision.
Manual Machines
These are the most common espresso machines, and many people are familiar with them as they are primarily found in many cafes and homes. Not to mention that they are the most affordable in the professional espresso machines category.
These machines require the user to control the brewing process (brew ratio, amount of water needed, temperature, and brew time).
They have steam mechanisms or pumps to manage brew pressure, but the user controls everything else instead of an automatic-type machine.
Manual espresso machines are available in different sizes, price points, and shapes and are generally versatile machines for making espresso beverages. They are available in both home and commercial sizes, but all have a similar way of working. These machines have inbuilt steam wands for steaming milk to prepare espresso-based beverages such as flat whites, macchiato, and lattes.
You have to be experienced or have the skills to use these machines. Also, they are messy and require frequent maintenance. However, if you can overlook all these downsides and learn how to use them correctly, they are one of the best, making excellent espresso.
Semi-automatic Machines
A semi-automatic espresso machine eliminates the manual process, although user involvement is needed. Unlike manual machines, a semi-automatic has push buttons for every brewing process. That means you need to be a little more experienced to use it right, but it allows for more customization on the upside.
If you want to change the amount of water you’re brewing with or grind coffee beans, you can do that with a push of a button.
Automatic Machines
Unlike semi-automatic machines, automatic espresso machines brew espresso as per the pre-programmed timers and automatically stop after the timer runs out. That means they are easier to use than manual espresso machines. They allow one to control most parts of the brewing process and have advanced features such as digital touch screens and built-in bean grinders. You can use these machines to make any espresso beverage
However, on the downside, they are a bit pricier than standard manual machines while the cheaper ones tend to develop problems within a short time.
Super-automatic Machines
Although they share features, these machines are more equipped and pricier than standard automatic machines. They take automation to a whole new level meaning that user involvement in brewing is reduced.
Modern super-automatic machines can grind coffee beans in their portafilters in addition to self-brewing shots of espresso.
You control the grinding and brewing process, including grind size, brew times, amount of coffee beans used, etc. They are highly versatile, and you can get them at varying price points in the market. However, it’s important to mention that you get what you pay for when it comes to these types of espresso machines. Avoid cheap versions of super-automatic machines as they tend to run into problems earlier on in their lifespan. These espresso machines are ideal for people who love espresso but are not a fan of the brewing process.
Capsule Machines
The rise of single-serve coffee makers like Nespresso coffee machines and Keurig have made capsule-based espresso machines popular. These machines take capsules filled with espresso grounds and use a pump to create a high pressure that makes one serving of espresso.
Many don’t have milk-steaming options and are usually expensive. They require one to measure your coffee or grind it, making them great for those looking for a convenient way of enjoying their espresso. In addition, they are great for those in small apartments.
How We Test Espresso Machines
Our test evaluates how easy it is to use an espresso maker, the time it takes to brew if it’s consistent in taste and quality of crema, and noise level.
In most of our tests, we analyzed over 40 best espresso makers and brewed tens of espresso cups. We also rate the smoothness and flavor of the espresso.
Where applicable, we test for milk frothing and if it works with both oat and skin milk. Our choices were those machines that were easy to set up, straightforward to use, and reasonably quick to make espresso. The best espresso machines produced a flavorful and smooth cup of espresso that was not too bitter or acidic, with a velvety crema that lacks noticeable air bubbles
How to Use an Espresso Machine
Making perfect espresso shots requires one to have the right equipment and skills. If you already have the best espresso maker, here is a quick way of pulling a great espresso shot:
Step 1 – turn on your espresso maker and allow it to preheat. This can take up to 25 minutes for some models.
Step 2 – Measure and fine grind your beans. You can fill your portafilter with around 20g of ground coffee. Make sure to write down the amount you’ve used to remain consistent. Also, there’s a capacity range for your machine’s portafilter provided by the manufacturer.
Step 3 – Tamp your grounds to make the bed flat and even.
Step 4 – Pull your first shot. In most cases, it is just for purposes of establishing a baseline. If it’s sweet, dark, and glorious, you’re good to proceed.
Step 5 – Dial in the shot if the first one came out perfect for consistency.
Step 6 – Steam your milk if you’re making a cortado, latte, or macchiato.
How to Clean An Espresso Machine
An espresso machine is complex, and thus cleaning them can be a bit of a task. You’ll need espresso machine cleaning powder, group head cleaning brush, cleaning blank, 1-liter cleaning container, and milk frother cleaner.
Here’re quick steps to follow when cleaning your espresso machine:
Step 1 – Remove the portafilter from the group head and later remove the portafilter basket.
Step 2 – Insert the cleaning blank in the portafilter.
Step 3 – Add the recommended amount of espresso machine cleaning powder into a cleaning blank.
Step 4 – Insert the portafilter into the group head the same way you would when making an espresso shot.
Step 5 – activate the brew cycle for 15-20 seconds. Do this for 60 seconds.
Step 6 – Remove the portafilter from the group head and rinse it in the stream of water.
Step 7 – Repeat steps 3 and 4 without using cleaning powder.
Step 8 – Remove the portafilter and use the group head cleaning brush to remove old coffee grounds from the rubber seal.
Step 9 – Repeat steps 1-8 on other group heads.
Mix the cleaning solution with water as recommended and add milk frother cleaner to clean the steam wand. Submerge the steam wand in the cleaning solution and engage the want. Repeat the step with cold water.
Types of Coffee
You’ll find two types of coffee beans – Arabica, the most popular due to its sweet, complex flavor, and Robusta, known to have a bitter taste and high caffeine content.
Both coffee beans make the following types of coffee drinks:
Black is produced when ground coffee beans are steeped in hot water. It isn’t doctored with sugar or milk.
Latte is another popular coffee drink made of a shot of espresso mixed with steamed milk. It can be taken plain or with flavor.
Cappuccino has foam and often has a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top.
Americano has a similar flavor to black coffee but has its espresso shot diluted in hot water.
Espresso is used as a foundation of most coffee beverages such as macchiato and lattes.
Cortado mixes espresso and warm steamed milk.
Doppio is a double shot of espresso.
Other types include cortado, red eye, galao, lungo, macchiato, flat white, affogato, ristretto, etc.
FAQs
What is the Best Home Espresso Machine?
There are plenty of popular espresso machines for domestic use, and it can be hard to find the best one. However, we have compiled a list of the best home espresso machines. You can find the best one on our list
How Much Is an Espresso Machine?
While a beginner can get a quality machine for less than $100, avid coffee drinkers can expect to pay up to $500 for a quality home espresso machine. Commercial models can go over $1,000 and even $20,000.
How to Choose an Espresso Machine?
Espresso is a highly personal beverage, meaning that there are different ways of making it. When comparing different models, it can feel overwhelming.
So how do you find the best espresso maker for your needs? You’ll need to consider how often you’ll be making espresso, the amount you want to brew at a time, customization you want to have in the brewing process, and if you’re going to be involved in the brewing process. A manual espresso machine can be ideal for those who want more control over the brewing process. A super-automatic machine will suit your needs if you want to have perfect shots conveniently.
What to Consider Before Buying an Espresso Machine
To find a suitable machine for your taste, here are factors and features to keep in mind:
Ease of Use
If you want a machine that’s convenient to use, go for a maker that falls into the automated category and has programmable settings. Ensure its interface is intuitive.
Ease of Cleaning
Make sure you have an idea of how to clean your espresso maker before buying.
Cost
Espresso machines come at different prices, and the range can be huge. Pricier models tend to have more features and are easy to use. If you’re someone who’s not too much concerned with ease of use and aim to dress your espresso with lots of sugar and milk, a lower-end model can be satisfactory for you.
If you don’t know what mode your budget can buy, don’t worry, because we have taken extensive research and we provide you with the best espresso machine for the money for every possible budget: under $100, $200-$300, $300-$400, $400-$500, $500-$600, $600-$700, $700-$800, $800-$900, $900-$1000, $1000-$1500, $1500-$2000, $2000-$3000, and finally $3000+.
Size
This is another factor to keep in mind. If you have a limited kitchen space, make sure you take note of the size of your countertops.
Warranty
A manufacturer that trusts their model will last offers a considerable warranty period. Go for machines that are backed by a sensible warranty.
Extra Features
Such as water filter, cup warmer, programmable settings, built-in coffee grinder, frothing wand, etc., are a plus. Keep in mind that extra features add to the cost of a machine.
Which Are The Leading Espresso Machine Brands?
- Breville
- De’Longhi
- Rancilio
- Gaggia
- Nespresso
- Philips
- Cuisinart
- Smeg
- Miele
- Elektra
- Ascaso
- Jura
- Nuova Simonelli
Conclusion
We’ve covered pretty much about home espresso machines, and now you’re in a good position to choose the right one from our list. With so many options in the market, it can be hard to find the best coffee maker. The perfect espresso machine depends on your budget, what you’d want the machine to do for you, and how much you want to be involved in the espresso brewing process.
Take your time to learn about different machine types and decide your ideal option. Once you find a suitable espresso machine, you’ll never be disappointed with your espresso again.
After you read these espresso machine reviews, you won’t be confused when purchasing. As professional reviewers, we highly recommend you to buy Breville Bambino Plus, DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro, Breville Oracle Touch, Microcasa a Leva, and Philips 3200 Series.
