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With so many of us working from home these days, stopping by a coffee shop to pick up a latte or other espresso drink may be less convenient than it used to be. You may be considering purchasing an espresso machine so that you can prepare your drinks from the comfort of home.
There are many different types of espresso machines available, such as manual, automatic, semi-automatic, or capsule-driven machines.
There is also a large variety in terms of pricing for machines, with some falling into a budget-friendly range and others being more of a splurge.
This article includes our picks of the best espresso machines for your home, as well as tips for how to choose which one is right for you.
When shopping for an espresso machine, there are quite a few factors to take into consideration.
There are a few different types of espresso machines, some of which tend to be a little more user-friendly than others. Depending on your experience level and interest in crafting espresso drinks, you may or may not wish to opt for a more advanced model.
The different types of espresso machines include:
In addition to type of machine, you’ll also want to consider which features you’d like included with your machine.
For example, if you expect to use your espresso machine to make lattes or other milk-based drinks, you may want to choose one that includes a milk steamer.
Additionally, some machines will have a coffee grinder included, which can be really convenient and removes the need to purchase a separate grinder.
If you think you’d like to bring your espresso machine with you, you may opt for a portable version that will allow you to brew a cup anywhere.
The size of the espresso machine can be important too, as some machines can take up quite a bit of counter space. When checking machines out, it’s a good idea to measure your own space to determine how well a machine will fit.
The pricing on espresso machines can vary quite a bit. A more expensive machine may have more bells and whistles, but you don’t have to spend too much to get a quality espresso machine. There are several highly-rated budget-friendly espresso machines available.
With so many different espresso machines available, it can be tricky figuring out which one is the best choice for you.
We chose the best espresso machines based on the following criteria:
General price ranges with dollar signs ($ to $$$$) are indicated below. One dollar sign means the product is rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher cost.
Generally, prices range from $29.49–$999.95, though this may vary depending on where you shop.
Pricing guide:
This espresso machine is semi-automatic, meaning it will auto-grind the beans for you, and then you can tamp and razor the grounds before starting the machine to brew a single or double espresso in less than a minute.
The integrated grinder allows the beans to be ground fresh right before your cup is brewed, and the water is kept at the optimal temperature throughout.
If you like to make milk-based espresso drinks, you can use the steam wand to hand-texture your milk to add to your drink.
The Breville Barista Express has more than 17,000 reviews on Amazon and 4.7 out of 5 stars. Many happy customers have written that the machine feels like professional quality, and it’s easy to use and clean — though you may have to get the hang of it first.
The Breville Barista Touch is the most expensive on our list, but it’s also the most convenient and user-friendly because it’s automatic.
To prepare your espresso, you’ll swipe on the touch screen to choose from several different drink options, such as Americano, latte, or flat white. Next, you’ll select the auto grind, then tamp and trim the grounds yourself.
From there, all that’s left is pushing the “brew” button, followed by the “milk” button, if applicable.
This machine has a 4.7 out of 5 on Amazon and many reviewers comment on the ease of use, especially with the touch screen feature. However, others have written that there is a bit of a learning curve when getting started.
This stove-top espresso maker comes in 4-, 6-, or 10-cup sizes.
To prepare a drink, you simply unscrew the bottom section and fill it with water, then place the funnel on top and fill it with grounds. As the machine heats up on the stove, the steam will be pushed through the grounds, brewing fresh espresso that can be poured directly from the spout.
If you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-use alternative to a more expensive espresso maker, this might be a good fit for you.
Keep in mind: you’ll have to purchase ground espresso beans or a grinder to grind them yourself.
Reviews are mostly positive, though some mention that the machine can overheat and boil over if you don’t keep an eye on it.
If you’re more experienced and appreciate the task of manually preparing an espresso drink, this is a great option for you.
You’ll have full control of grinding the beans — though keep in mind you’ll need a separate grinder — heating the water, and pushing it through with the included lever.
Because this machine does take a little more effort and skill, it likely isn’t the best choice for someone new to preparing espresso.
The Flair Espresso Maker has great reviews on Amazon, and many users comment on the convenience of having a manual espresso machine that can be portable as well.
La Pavoni definitely runs on the expensive side and can be more difficult to operate than other machines on our list. However, some people appreciate the time and effort spent preparing and customizing their espresso drink.
Keep in mind that this machine does not include a grinder, so you’ll also have to factor in the cost of one in addition to the machine.
La Pavoni has mostly positive reviews, with happy customers mentioning that while the price is steep, the machine is great quality and lasts a long time.
A capsule espresso machine can be convenient and easy to use. The Nespresso Vertuo Evoluo allows you to brew four different sizes of espressos from a capsule.
It also has the option to brew coffee, making this a great option for someone who enjoys both regular coffee and espresso drinks.
The Nespresso website has a wide variety of capsules available, with varying roasts and flavors.
This espresso machine has a 4.8 out of 5 star rating on Amazon and is a clear fan favorite, though a few disappointed customers mention that the espresso is not hot enough.
This espresso machine can create single or double espresso drinks and has a milk frother attachment to prepare lattes, flat whites, and more.
Typically, an automatic machine means fewer customizations. However, this particular machine allows you to choose the grind of the beans, the temperature, and the size of the espresso.
It also has clean and decalcify buttons, making it easy and almost effortless to clean.
Happy customers comment on the ease of use of this machine, though a handful of disappointed reviewers mention that the espresso is not hot enough and the machine did not last very long for them.
A semi-automatic machine is a great choice for someone who wants some level of customization without the effort required for a manual machine.
The KitchenAid Semi-Automatic does not include a grinder, so you’ll need to purchase one separately. You’ll grind your own beans before tamping and trimming the grounds. The machine takes care of the rest.
Some of the key features of this machine include a cup warmer and smart temperature sensors that ensure your cup is brewed at the perfect temperature.
Most reviews on this machine are positive, and many reviewers appreciate having some level of customization along with convenience.
The Essenza Mini is a simple capsule-based espresso machine that measures just over 3 inches wide, 8 inches tall, and 13 inches deep, making it suitable for smaller spaces.
Despite its small size, it can still brew various espresso drinks with a variety of Nespresso capsules. It’s also one of the less expensive versions of the different Nespresso machines.
This espresso machine has great reviews overall, though some disappointed customers have written that the espresso is not quite hot enough.
The Minipresso is a great option for individuals who would like to bring their espresso hiking, camping, or on other trips.
Compatible with Nespresso capsules, all you’ll need to do is add water and press a button to brew a shot of espresso directly into a drinkable cup.
This portable espresso maker is operated manually, so you won’t need batteries or electricity.
Reviews are mostly positive overall, but some mention that pumping the espresso can be a bit taxing, while other folks felt that it did not get hot enough.
Below is how these espresso machines compare.
Overall, there is a wide variety in price, type of machine, features, and customization possibilities.
Quite a few questions may come up as you’re beginning your search for the perfect espresso machine.
We’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions to help you understand certain specifics about espresso so that you feel more confident picking out your machine.
There are many different brands of espresso machines. Some of the most highly-rated brands include Breville, Nespresso, La Pavoni, De’Longhi, KitchenAid, and Philips, though this is not an exhaustive list.
How you’ll clean your espresso machine will largely depend on what type of machine you have.
Generally speaking, you’ll want to take off all of the removable parts of the machine and clean each individually. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how to clean each part properly.
Over time, limescale can build up in the machine. For this reason, some manufacturers may also recommend descaling the machine from time to time with a descaling solution or vinegar.
After cleaning and descaling the machine, it’s a good idea to flush it out by running the machine with just plain water a few times before preparing your next espresso drink.
Technically, espresso coffee beans are exactly the same as regular coffee beans. The difference comes in the roast and grind of the beans.
Espresso beans are roasted longer and are ground more finely than beans used for coffee.
Espresso beans should be ground to a fine consistency. Some espresso machines include a grinder that is designed specifically for espresso beans and will grind them to the right consistency.
You can also grind your own espresso beans, but a regular coffee grinder may not do the trick. Look for a burr grinder, or a grinder that is specific to espresso beans.
Espresso machines can be a great addition to any coffee lover’s kitchen.
They come in a variety types and sizes and with different features, such as a milk steamer or in-machine grinder.
Before deciding which espresso machine is right for you, consider the type of machine that matches your experience level and preferences, the size of the machine, as well as the price and any other features that stand out to you.
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