When it comes time to spend your hard-earned dollars on an espresso machine, there’s no one-size-fits-all option. So to make your life a little easier and to help you make the most informed buying decision, this article answers the question: “What is the best espresso machine?”
We searched broadly and deeply to present you with a selection of the best espresso machines across a range of categories and criteria. Furthermore, we’ve researched the full gamut of espresso machines on the market today. Each selection was chosen based on overall quality, desirable features, value for the money, and a number of positive user reviews.
No matter your budget, there’s sure to be one of the best espresso machine reviews that will make your caffeine-craving, latte-lovin’ dreams come true.
If you’re shopping for an espresso machine, why not choose the one you know will perform at a high caliber and last for a long time? The problem with some of the entry-level machines on the market is that they’re somewhat disposable and only intended to last for a few years.
But luckily, not all espresso machines fall prey to cheap components. One such machine is the Rancilio Silvia, our choice for the best espresso machine under 1000 dollars.
The Rancilio Silvia is built with commercial-grade components, has stood the test of time, and has gained the devotion of serious home baristas everywhere.
In production for over 18 years, Silvia’s design and core features have remained relatively consistent, while each new incarnation receives upgrades to make it a better machine overall.
Now, you won’t find any bells and whistles on this workhorse of a machine. However, what you get is a machine capable of brewing world-class shots of espresso and steaming milk that would make any pro barista proud. If you’re looking for a home espresso machine to help you develop and hone your barista skills, go with the Rancilio Silvia, and you won’t be sorry.
Let’s dig into the Rancilio Silvia’s features to find out what makes this one of the best espresso makers under $1000:
Commercial-grade components. When you open the top panel of the Silvia, you’re greeted by hardware made of beautiful brass. Other machines in this price range often use cheaper components, and while they do work for some time, eventually break and often aren’t worth the trouble to repair. The Silvia, however, uses scaled-down commercial components that are built to deliver years and years of reliable use. And if needed, can be repaired by a qualified espresso technician (and it’s actually worth it).
Heavy-duty brass boiler. The Silvia uses a single 12oz boiler to get the job done. Brass heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly. Inside the boiler are three thermostats used to monitor espresso temperature, steam temperature, and the boiler’s heating element.
Stainless steel everywhere. A quick glance at the Silvia and you’re immediately greeted by the modern yet stylish stainless steel case. Beneath the case is a rust-resistant steel frame, along with stainless steel bolts and screws throughout. Inside the boiler, you’ll find a stainless steel heating element that if cared for properly, will stand up to years of consistent use.
Full size 58mm professional portafilter. The Silvia’s portafilter is the very same portafilter used in many of Rancilio’s commercial espresso machine models. Included with the machine are two stainless steel portafilters, a single and a double. It’s important to point out that this is not a pressurized portafilter. Therefore, you will need to use some precision when selecting your grind size and pay close attention to how you tamp the bed of coffee to get the best results.
Professional steam wand. The steam power of the Silvia is phenomenal. Since it’s a traditional, commercial-style steam wand, you’ll need to develop a technique to steam good milk consistently. However, over time you’ll love the control you have to make your milk exactly how you like it! This machine also has enough steam power to create the micro foam needed to pour latte art. So if you’ve ever admired the beautiful designs baristas pour in lattes, the Silvia will help you create milky masterpieces of your own.
Large 67 oz removable water reservoir. The water tank can be filled either by removing it from the machine and filling it in the sink or by adding water while still in the machine.
A rock solid machine for the dedicated espresso connoisseur. Let’s be real: this machine is not for everyone. Those who only want a quick caffeine fix and don’t want to indulge in the finer points of espresso will do better with a super-automatic machine, or something more hands-off. But, if you want not only to enjoy drinking the beverages you create, but also enjoy the process and craft of creating those beverages, the Rancilio Silvia just might be the machine for you.
TheDe’longhi EC155 is a small but mighty machine that has won the hearts of thousands upon thousands of budget-conscious home baristas. At this price point, you won’t get a machine that does it all for you. But what you do get is a machine capable of producing crema-rich espresso and frothy steamed milk without breaking the bank.
As a semi-automatic machine, you, the barista, are in charge of the espresso and milk steaming processes. But don’t let that intimidate you; the EC155 is very user-friendly. Just a quick read of the owner’s manual will have you producing delicious espresso, cappuccinos, and lattes in no time.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the features that make this the best espresso maker under $100:
Ground espresso or E.S.E pod compatible. Thanks to a patented dual function filter holder, if you don’t have a grinder, or if you simply want a more convenient option, you can use your favorite Easy Serve Espresso pods in place of traditional ground espresso.
Pressurized portafilter for fool-proof crema. This is one of the more “user-friendly” features of the machine. It allows baristas of any skill level to produce great shots of espresso without having an exact grind setting or perfect tamping technique.
Built in tamper. Conveniently located next to the brew head is a built-in tamper, so you won’t have to worry about buying (and possibly losing) a separate tamper. Since the machine uses a pressurized portafilter, precise tamping isn’t necessary. A quick push with the built in tamper to compress the bed of espresso is all you need.
Separate water and steam thermostats. This feature is a nice touch that gives you a little extra control over the temperature of your espresso and steamed milk to tailor your drinks to your personal preference.
Self-priming functionality. Simply turn on the machine, and it will get itself ready to brew!
Swivel jet milk frother. The milk frother on this machine is very easy to use and creates beautifully frothed milk without much hassle.
Removable 35 ounce water reservoir. The water reservoir is easily accessible for filling and cleaning.
Small, compact, and counter-friendly. Not only is this a great machine for the money, but it’s also a great machine if you’re short on space. At 7 inches wide, 8.5 inches deep, and 10 inches tall, this machine tucks under any cabinet and leaves plenty of room for your other appliances.
A great starter machine. If you’re new to the world of espresso and want to test the waters, the De’longhi EC155 is a great place to start. With a minimal upfront investment, you’ll be well on your way to home barista mastery.
There are several good espresso machines available for under $200, but there is one that stands out both for overall quality and desirable features: theMr. Coffee Cafe Barista.
Since you, the barista, grind the coffee, load the portafilter, and tamp, the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista is classified as a semi-automatic machine. But, with an automatic milk frother (and a good one at that), it gives you some of the same convenience and consistent results as a super-automatic machine, but at a fraction of the price.
What makes this the best espresso maker under $200? Let’s take a look at the features to find out:
One-touch control panel. On the face of the machine, you’ll find three buttons: espresso, cappuccino, and latte. After you’ve loaded your portafilter with ground espresso and added milk to the frother, press the button of your drink of choice (once for small, twice for large), and the machine does the rest.
15 bar pump with a pressurized portafilter. High pressure is a key to delicious espresso, and the Cafe Barista more than delivers. The pressurized portafilter helps you make thick, rich crema every time without stressing out about having perfect technique.
Automatic milk frother. Add milk to the frother container, use the dial to select your desired amount of foam for either a latte or cappuccino, make your drink selection, then watch as the milk automatically froths and pours into your mug to be mixed with espresso.
Adjustable mug tray. This feature allows you to use a broad range of cup sizes, from tiny demitasse espresso cups to tall insulated travel mugs.
Single and double shot filter baskets. Regulate your caffeine intake by using either the single or double shot filter basket included with the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista. The baskets pop out of the portafilter and can be changed in a matter of seconds.
Measuring scoop/tamper combo included. Dose the perfect amount of ground espresso every time with the included scoop. Flip the scoop around, and now you have a tamper to compress the bed of coffee before brewing.
Easy cleanup. With a removable drip tray, milk container, and water reservoir, cleaning up the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista is quick, easy, and convenient.
Bumping up your espresso machine budget to $300 brings you a serious increase in quality and features, especially when you go with theDe’longhi Dedica EC680M.
Stylish and space efficient, the Dedica EC680 is equipped to brew high-grade espresso and steam barista-quality milk with ease. With full programmability, a straightforward and intuitive control panel, and a brewing system designed to extract optimal flavor and aroma, the Dedica EC680 is hands down the best espresso maker under $300.
Let’s go over the sweet features of this classy machine to see if it’s the one for you:
Full programmability for customized drink preferences. Using the simple three-button control panel, you can program the water temperature and volume of espresso, the level of water hardness to achieve the best-tasting shots, and the amount of time it takes for the machine to go into standby mode. You can also program the length of pre-infusion (we’ll cover the machine’s impressive pre-infusion feature in a minute).
Panarello steam wand for easy frothing. A panarello is a special type of steam wand that simultaneously heats and injects spurts of air into the milk automatically. Unlike conventional steam wands, panarello wands require very little technique from the barista. This makes it possible for inexperienced baristas to create ideal milk froth with little to no skill. Basically, with this machine, you can count on perfectly fluffy milk every time. The panarello can also be used as a hot water spigot for your cafe americanos or tea.
Pre-infusion brewing. Instead of blasting the espresso grounds with hot, pressurized water right away, the Dedica EC 680 pre-infuses the grounds with water at a lower pressure for a brief period of time. This allows the coffee grounds to absorb water before being extracted gradually. The result? A more full-flavored, smooth, and an aromatic shot of espresso. As mentioned before, you can program the pre-infusion period and adjust it to taste.
Single, double, and E.S.E filter baskets. The Dedica comes with both single and double shot filter baskets for use with ground espresso. It also comes with a unique basket for use with Easy Serve Espresso pods.
Slim design. The Dedica ES680 packs all of its hardware and features into a very compact design that fits nicely on any counter.
Automatic descaling. A brief read of the owner’s manual will show you how to start the Dedica’s automatic descale mode. This is particularly useful if your local water is high in mineral content that can accumulate inside the machine’s boiler. Add the cleaning tablet, start the cycle, and the machine will take care of rest.
An excellent entry level machine. If you know you’re into espresso, and can’t see yourself living without your morning cappuccino, the Dedica ES680 is an excellent machine for the price. With basic care and upkeep, you can expect the Dedica to outperform well any of the lower priced models you may be considering. This really is one heck of an espresso machine for under $300!
TheBreville Infuser BES840XL is without a doubt the best espresso machine under 500 dollars. What you get is a real, barista-worthy espresso machine — essentially a scaled down, home-friendly version of a commercial espresso machine. Not to say that the other machines on this list aren’t “real” machines. However, the Infuser is just a lot closer to what you would find in a coffee shop.
The Infuser is a machine you can plan on keeping around for a while. It’s built with high-quality components and several features that give you incredible control over the espresso-making process. Thus, this machine is ideal for both novice home baristas and experienced espresso maestros alike.
Want to see why the Infuser is worth every penny as the best espresso maker under $500? Let’s check out the features:
Low-pressure pre-infusion. Named for this very feature, the Infuser uses low-pressure pre-infusion technology to gently “infuse” the espresso grounds with water before applying full pressure to brew the shot. This action essentially unlocks deeper flavors and aromatics within the coffee for a more full-bodied, nuanced espresso shot.
PID Controlled Temperature. Steady, stable, and consistent temperature is crucial to the espresso extraction process. The Breville Infuser features an internal PID temperature controller that keeps the water at an exact temperature for brewing espresso. This is the same technology found in high-end commercial espresso machines.
Thermocoil Heating System for accuracy and quick heating. The Infuser’s heating system is a huge improvement over some of Breville’s earlier espresso machine models in the same price range. The older models used a block-style heating system that was slow to heat, prone to leaking, and often simply wouldn’t get hot enough. The thermocoil heating system in the Infuser is made of solid stainless steel for increased durability and lifespan, and has a larger mass for more heat retention. Also, it heats quicker and more reliably thanks to a highly efficient design. In plain terms, the machine heats up fast and stays hot!
Auto purge temperature adjustment. When using an espresso machine’s steam wand, the temperature of the machine can fluctuate and affect the outcome of the espresso. The Breville Infuser compensates for this by using an auto purge function to automatically adjust the machine’s temperature after steaming milk, giving you the perfect temperature to brew espresso.
Professional steam wand. The Infuser features a steam wand of the same design as many of the best commercial machines. While there is a slightly steeper learning curve on a traditional commercial style steam wand than the panarello style steam wands, with a little practice, you’ll be steaming velvety, latte art-worthy milk in no time.
Espresso pump pressure gauge. The gauge in the center of the machine’s control panel display allows you to monitor the pressure throughout the espresso extraction process.
Programmable espresso shot volumes. The Infuser features volumetric control that allows you to program both single and double shots to the size of your choice. Once you’ve found the perfect volume for your shots, load up the portafilter, push either the one or two shot button and your espresso is made to your specifications. The machine can also be operated in manual override mode which gives you more control of the single shot.
Magnetic tamper. Included with the Infuser is a tamper that is conveniently stowed away using the magnetic holder next to the portafilter.
Hot water spigot. If you like cafe americanos, you’ll find the hot water spigot convenient when adding water to your espresso.
Three-way solenoid valve. This often overlooked feature is very handy when it comes to keeping a tidy home espresso bar. The three-way solenoid valve stops excess water from filling the portafilter after the espresso is brewed. Why does this matter? Because without a three-way solenoid valve, the excess water in the coffee puck usually sprays and splashes when you remove the portafilter, causing a real mess! After you brew a shot of espresso with the Infuser, excess water is removed from the ground coffee, giving you a dry(er) puck that doesn’t make a mess!
61 oz removable water tank. The Infuser’s water tank is considerably larger than many of its competitors and is very easy to remove.
Replaceable water filter. The Infuser features a built-in water filter that removes impurities and limits the amount of scale build up making for better tasting espresso and longer boiler life.
A serious machine for serious espresso lovers. The Breville Infuser delivers high performance in a counter-friendly package and truly stands apart from all other espresso machines in the sub-$500 range. If you’re looking for an upgrade or getting started in home espresso from scratch, go with the Infuser, and you won’t be disappointed!
If you’ve ever dreamed of transforming your kitchen counter into a professional espresso bar, you’re going to need the right machine to make that dream come true. And if you want to go all the way, not just any espresso machine will do; you need the best. After much research, we’ve found that the best espresso machine for home is the Profitec Pro 700.
Profitec Pro 700
Now make no mistake: this machine is the real deal. German engineering and Italian style combine to create a remarkable “prosumer” espresso machine. It is not only beautiful to look at but designed to brew espresso and steam milk at a quality you never thought possible.
Let’s go over the high-end features of the Profitec Pro 700 that make this the absolute best espresso machine for home use:
Stainless steel dual boilers. Both the espresso brew head and steam wand have their own separate boilers made of stainless steel. Both boilers are wrapped with thermal insulation, increasing the machine’s heat retention and energy efficiency. One of the prominent benefits of dual boilers is that you can brew espresso and steam milk at the same time. Another advantage is that you get extremely stable and consistent results for both espresso and steam since they are independent of each other.
Powerful high RPM motor and rotary pump. Consistent and reliable pressure is generated by the machine’s powerful pump system. The high RPM motor significantly cuts down on the loud pump noise often generated by lower RPM pumps, making for a quieter, more peaceful brewing experience.
Professional E61 brew group. Jutting out from the front of the machine is the brew group; an E61, to be exact. This downsloping hunk of solid chromed brass may not seem like anything special to most. However, it is one of the most critical components of the entire machine, and is what makes the rich shots of crema-heavy espresso possible. E61 group heads were first developed in 1961 by the renowned Italian espresso machine manufacturer Faema. Moreover, these have since been regarded as one of the most significant innovations in espresso history. Exactly why E61 brew groups are so important would take an entire article to explain. But basically, they hold temperature extremely well, producing consistent shot after consistent shot of some of the finest espresso you’re likely ever to taste.
Insulated no burn steam wand and hot water dispenser. You won’t have to worry about burning your hands and arms when steaming milk or getting hot water, as both the steam and hot water arms are insulated. This is particularly useful when you’re first learning how to steam milk, and if the machine is within reach of children.
PID temperature control. The temperature of both the espresso boiler and the steam boiler are controlled via PID for pinpoint accurate temperatures and stability. A digital display on the front of the machine shows both temperatures which can be easily changed. It gives you full control over your espresso brewing and milk steaming parameters.
Plumb it in directly or use the large 3L water tank. Included in the machine is the hardware you need to plumb in the machine directly into your home’s water line. If you choose to do so, you’ll be able to take advantage of the machine’s pre-infusion ability. Moreover, if you don’t want to plumb in the machine, the 3L reservoir is plenty big for average daily espresso needs.
A long term investment machine. While the Profitec Pro 700’s price tag may come as a shock to some, this is a machine that is designed for decades of use.
Ever since the unveiling of the world’s first espresso machine at the 1906 World’s Fair in Milan, Italy, espresso machine technology has been continually improved upon, resulting in the highly advanced commercial espresso machines of today.
Some of the most groundbreaking innovations in espresso machine design have taken place in the last decade. Furthermore, one of the key players in espresso machine innovation is Nuova Simonelli, who we believe to make one of the best espresso machines for coffee shop use.
The Nuova Simonelli Aurelia II T3 is an espresso machine found on the bars of some of the world’s most prestigious specialty coffee shops. It was previously the official espresso machine of the World Barista Championship and is still regarded as one of the most impressive pieces of coffee equipment on the market. If you’re looking for a new machine for your coffee shop, you really can’t go wrong with the Aurelia II T3.
Let’s dig into the Aurelia II T3’s features to see why it’s the best espresso machine for coffee shops:
T3 temperature stability technology. One of the most celebrated facets of the Aurelia is its excellent temperature stability thanks to T3 technology. Using three separate parameters to regulate the machine’s temperature, the Aurelia holds supremely accurate temperatures no matter how intense the workload or conditions of the environment.
Barista-friendly ergonomic design. With all the repetitive movements and long hours of standing, making espresso professionally can be a physically demanding job. The designers of the Aurelia II T3 took this into consideration, making the machine as ergonomic and safe for the operator as possible. The lights under the machine’s brew groups illuminate the barista’s work surface along with LED steam arm nozzles that light up the inside of the milk steaming pitcher reduce eye strain. An angled backsplash with reflective surface provides a mirror for the barista to see the espresso shot pouring out of the portafilter. And lastly, its slanted portafilter handles help reduce wrist strain.
Made for intense, high volume use. As a heat exchanger machine, the barista can steam milk and pull shots at the same time, with a much quicker bounce back time than machines with dual boilers. The raised group heads allow for brewing espresso straight into large to-go cups, saving time in the drink-making process. The steam power of the Aurelia is truly unparalleled, helping the barista whip up batches of creamy, perfectly frothed milk in seconds.
A variety of options and versions to choose from. The Aurelia II T3 is available with several different configuration options, allowing coffee shop owners to choose the right machine for their unique needs. It’s available in two, three, and four grouphead models to accommodate cafes of any service volume. Standard semi-automatic and upgraded auto-volumetric versions are available, along with options for automatic “smart” steam wands for hands-free milk steaming.
Milk and espresso are unquestionably made for each other. If you happen to agree and love your espresso cut with a healthy dose of frothy, perfectly steamed milk, then check out theDe’longhi EC702.
To find out what makes the De’longhi EC702 the best espresso machine with a milk steamer, let’s take a peek at some of its features:
Easy to use patented milk frother/steamer. This machine has one of the most user-friendly milk steamers of any on the market. The milk steam arm simultaneously injects steam and air into the milk, giving you perfect frothy milk for your cappuccinos and lattes.
Use ground espresso or E.S.E pods. The patented dual function portafilter has interchangeable filter baskets, to switch from using ground coffee to Easy Serve Espresso pods on the fly.
Self-priming. Simply turn the machine on, fill up the water reservoir, and in a few minutes, the machine is ready to brew.
Stylish stainless steel body case. The machine’s stainless steel exterior not only looks great but adds considerable durability compared to some of the plastic-cased machines at a similar price point.
Compact, great for small spaces. If you want an espresso machine with a great milk steamer but aren’t sure where you’ll put it, the De’longhi EC702 may be just what you need. With such a small footprint, you’ll be able to find space for this great little machine, no matter how small of a kitchen space you’re working with.
If you enjoy that perfect balance of espresso and frothed milk in a cappuccino or latte, but want it delivered in the most convenient, stress-free way possible, check out the Saeco Exprelia Evo superautomatic espresso machine. With this one-touch machine, you simply add milk to the froth carafe, select your desired drink, your drink is made, and you’re on your way.
Saeco Exprelia ​
To find out what makes the Saeco Exprelia Evo the very best espresso machine with milk frother, here’s an overview of its features:
Convenient removable milk frother carafe. For every drink you make with the Exprelia Evo, the machine steams only the milk you need. The removable carafe can be stored full of milk in the refrigerator until it’s time to make a drink. After a drink is made, the machine runs an automatic cleaning cycle that cleans the working components of the milk frothing system.
Additional conventional milk steam wand. This feature is something you won’t find on any other machine. In addition to the automatic milk frother, the Exprelia Evo has a traditional steam wand, giving you more flexibility and control over your milk. You can also use the steam wand to conveniently reheat your latte if it cools down before you have time to drink it. The steam wand doubles as a hot water spigot for making tea and Americanos.
Stainless steel double boilers. With dedicated boilers for both espresso and milk frothing, the Exprelia Evo is continuously ready to brew and can keep up with higher volume home use.
Pre-infusion brewing. Dubbed as the “Saeco Aroma System,” the Exprelia Evo uses pre-infusion brewing to create a more flavorful and aromatic shot of espresso. The amount of pre-infusion can be programmed and customized to your tastes.
Automatic cleaning. Maintaining the Exprelia Evo couldn’t be easier with an automatic cleaning cycle that keeps your machine nice and clean until the next time you brew.
An often overlooked component of the espresso making process is the grinder. Truly delicious espresso starts with high-quality beans, but how those beans are ground makes a big difference in the result of your espresso concerning taste and aroma. That’s why it’s incredibly important that when you buy an espresso machine, you also invest in a quality grinder. But what if you don’t want to buy a separate grinder?
Lucky for you, there are some fantastic espresso machines with built-in grinders available, and if you’re looking for the very best, there are none finer than theBreville Oracle. The Oracle is a perfect blend of a semi-automatic and superautomatic machine. It grinds, tamps, brews the espresso, and steams the milk; but you, the barista, still get to be part of the process.
To learn more about why the Breville Oracle is the best espresso machine with a built in grinder, let’s go over its many excellent features:
Built-in grinder with stainless steel conical burrs. No separate grinder is needed with the Oracle. The hopper holds a 1/2 lb of whole bean coffee, and the burrs can be easily removed for cleaning. The grind size is adjusted using the conveniently located dial knob on the side of the machine with the grind setting displayed on an LCD screen.
Automatic dosing and tamping. When you’re ready to brew a drink, simply lock the portafilter in under the grinder. The Oracle, then, automatically grinds, doses, and tamps the bed of coffee.
Full-size 58mm stainless steel portafilter. Made of high-quality stainless steel, the Oracle’s portafilter feels heavy in your hand and fits comfortably into the brew head.
Pre-infusion brewing. At the start of every shot of espresso, the Oracle pre-infuses the ground coffee with low-pressure water to create a richer, more aromatic shot of espresso.
Automatic or manual milk steaming. The Oracle uses an automatic milk steaming system for hands-free frothing. But, if you’d like a little more control over your milk, you can run the steam wand in manual mode, and it functions just like a traditional commercial steam wand.
Dual stainless steel boilers. Both the espresso group head and milk steam wand operate from their own individual boilers.
Programmable everything. Just about every little detail of the espresso and milk steaming processes can be programmed and customized to your liking. Grind size, ground coffee dose, tamping pressure, water temperature, pre-infusion length and power, the length of shot, the temperature of milk, and texture of milk. These can all be customized to meet your exact preferences.
Final Thoughts on Best Espresso Machine
The best espresso machine is the one you’ll use and love every day. So, what is the best espresso maker for you? As you can see, there are tons of espresso machines out there at nearly every budget. But, if you use the recommendations in this article, you’ll be off to a great start on your home espresso-making journey.
