If you are slowly moving past the coffee-loving stage of French presses and milk frothers, you will soon need one of those fancy-schmancy espresso machines. While having a coffee maker at home may not be a necessity, it sure makes lives a lot easier for coffee lovers. But, browsing through the sea of options on Amazon is overwhelming, to say the very least.
And that’s where we come in! We don’t want to brag but we have a list of some of the best home espresso machines that will fill you in with some rich brown goodness. From classic retro styles to a modern-day machine that does all the job — you’ll surely find something you’ll love.
Let’s get brewing, ermm.. started!
Best Espresso Machine
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine
With brewing features typically found in higher-end machines, the Breville Barista Express will make you feel like a real barista when brewing a cup. It comes with an integrated conical burr grinder with over 16 settings, from ‘coarse’ on one end to ‘fine’ in the other! Whether you want a cup of espresso or double shot, the amount can be adjusted accordingly.
The stainless steel chassis looks stunning and the bean hopper, hefty steel portafilter, and magnetic tamper overall make an aesthetic espresso machine for your kitchen counter space.
Plus, the steam wand lets you hand texture micro-foam milk for a rich, velvety mouthfeel. So whether you like to indulge in the perfect espresso as dark as your soul, or have fun with some latte art, the Breville Barista Express will be your go-to machine in no time.
However, it can be tricky to use. So read the manual from cover to cover if you don’t want to waste your coffee beans on bad shots of espresso.
Pros
- Bean hopper capacity: 0.5 lb
- Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz
- Adjustable grind amount
- 16 grind settings
- Real pressure gauge
- Automatic ‘clean me’ signal
- The manual is easy to understand
- Integrated coffee grinder
- Drip tray catches stray ground beans or liquid
- Removable water tank with a sturdy handle
- Comes with an assorted set of cleaning tools
- Relatively low price tag for such a great espresso maker
Cons
- Can be tricky to use if you don’t read all the instructions
- Drip tray is rather small and needs to be emptied often
- Advice: Clean the group head regularly with hot water and steam
De’Longhi Magnifica Super-Automatic Espresso & Coffee Machine
As an entry-level super-automatic espresso machine, the De’Longhi Magnifica is an excellent choice for beginners and pros alike. It comes with a patented “Cappuccino System” frother that makes one of the creamiest milk froths for your coffee.
The conical burr grinder offers 7 settings while the push-button control panel is easy to use with programmable menu settings. De’Longhi Magnifica does come with an integrated bean hopper along with a ground coffee bypass if you ever wanted a decaf (although we don’t know why you would).
You wouldn’t miss going to your favorite coffee shop because this home espresso machine can make everything from espresso to latte, cappuccino, macchiato, and flat white at the push of a few buttons!
Pros
- Bean hopper capacity: 8.8 ounce
- Water Tank Capacity: 60 ounce
- Super-automatic espresso machine
- Automatic shut off after 3 hours
- Programmable menu settings
- Removable water tank
- Manual steam wand for frothing
- Can make all espresso drinks
- Integrated conical burr grinder
- Removable drip tray for easy cleanup
- Electronic steam and coffee thermostat
- High-quality machine, made in Italy
- Adjustable coffee spigot for different cup heights
- Easy maintenance and cleaning
- Stainless-steel removable double boiler
- Grinds, tamps, and extracts coffee beans automatically
- Exclusive cup tray keeps cups warm before use
- Patented “Cappuccino system” for creamy froth
Cons
- The grinder is quite noisy
Gaggia Classic Pro Home Espresso Machine
If you want an authentic cafe-style espresso at home, the Gaggia classic pro will not disappoint.
The rugged brushed stainless steel housing gives this Italian made machine an elegant look. The biggest improvements in this model from its predecessor are the commercial-style steam wand and the new drip tray. The steam wand has a two-hole steam tip that makes some really nice textured milk for latte art. The new pump mount makes the brewing process much quieter and faster.
The Gaggia Classic Pro comes with a pressurized basket and other commercial baskets for single and double shots. This ensures that you get some crema and a great espresso no matter what coffee beans you use. Plus, we love how the top of this machine has been utilized as a passive cup warmer.
Pros
- Water Tank Capacity: 47 ounce
- Semi-automatic espresso machine
- Rugged brushed stainless steel housing
- Commercial three-way solenoid valve
- Redesigned, removable drip tray
- Passive stainless steel cup warmer on the top
- Improved access to the water reservoir
- Easy to use and durable for years
- Commercial basket for single and double shots
- 58mm chrome-plated brass group head and portafilter
- Pressurized basket for pre-ground coffee or ESE pods
- Steam wand with a two-hole steam tip for textured milk froth
Cons
- Long term cleaning can be difficult
- The steam wand lacks a bit of power
Nespresso Vertuo Plus Espresso Machine by De’Longhi
If you don’t want the hassle of a bigger espresso machine that takes up most of your little counter space, then this Nespresso machine is perfect for you. It’s a compact pod coffee machine that offers delicious brew with naturally formed crema. With a sleek design and 5 different cup sizes, the Nespresso Vertuo Plus makes a great travel companion as well.
Reviewers on Amazon love simple and intuitive it is to use this machine. Just fill the water reservoir, slot the coffee pod, and press the start button — it can’t get any easier than this! This coffee maker utilizes Centrifusion Extraction Technology that punches some holes in the pod and spins it to create centrifugal force and extract coffee. This results in thick, dense crema to go with your brew, although the taste can be overwhelming for some people.
Pros
- Water tank capacity: 40 ounces
- Blend specific brewing
- Automatic shut-off after 9 minutes
- Heats up quickly (15 seconds)
- Centrifusion Extraction Technology
- Very easy and intuitive to use
- Removable water tank
- Great for traveling too
- Makes espresso, doppio, lungo
- Removable drip tray for easy clean-up
- Fully recyclable aluminum capsule
- Automatic capsule ejection technology
- Capsule container can hold 10 pods
- Bar-code reader for blend-specific brewing
- Sleek retro-modern design with elegant chrome details
Cons
- Thick crema can be overwhelming to some
Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker | Café Barista
Mr. Coffee Espresso Machine not only makes authentic coffee house style espresso but also some equally delicious lattes and cappuccinos. As one of ‘Amazon’s choice’ for latte machines, this beast will make you much more inspired to wake up early for work. It features an electric 15-bar pump that extracts rich flavors from coffee beans while brewing.
This coffee maker may come in a relatively lower price tag, but don’t let it fool you. It features a one-touch control panel that lets you select a single or double shot filter or latte and cappuccino options.
This semi-automatic espresso maker is easy to use — just fill the milk and water tanks, push a few buttons, and you’ll soon have an aromatic brew in your hands. Not to mention the automatic milk frother! The Cafe Barista froths milk as it’s needed and since the tank is removable, you can store the unused milk in the fridge for your next brew.
Finally, it also comes with a recipe book so you can indulge in different espresso drinks without having to walk to the nearest coffee shop.
Pros
- Affordable price tag
- Semi-automatic espresso machine
- Removable milk and water tanks
- Electric 15-bar pump for rich flavor
- Easy to use, one-touch control panel
- Single and double shot of espresso filter
- Makes espresso, doppio, latte, cappuccino
- Comes with a recipe book for different types of espresso drinks
- Automatic milk frother with an adjustable control knob
Cons
- Not dishwasher friendly
- The milk canister needs to be cleaned frequently
Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine, Stainless Steel Side Panels
Do you want to splurge all out on one of the best home espresso machines? Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine is your answer!
This semi-automatic espresso machine has a durable housing of iron frame and stainless steel side panels. The steam wand is fully articulated for a complete range of motion, making luscious foam or creamy steamed milk in no time!
Although the Rancilio Silvia is such a great machine, it does fall back in some areas. For example, it doesn’t have a grinder and you may need to get it separately, which will further empty your wallet. Also, this is a complex machine and you will need to read the instructions carefully and play around with the settings before you can operate it and get a nice shot.
Even though the Rancilio Silvia may overwhelm beginners, but once you get the hang of it, this machine will make a delicious cuppa that you’ll never get enough of.
Pros
- Semi-automatic espresso machine
- Elegant chrome-plated brass details
- Clean control panel with push buttons
- Ergonomic portafilter handle
- Professional level espresso maker
- Makes luscious foam and creamy steamed milk
- Allows for customization and experimentation
- Commercial grade group head for exceptional brew
- Optional pod and capsule adaptor kit available
- Can be used to steam milk and for milk frothing
- Fully articulated steam wand with a precise pressure control
Cons
- Expensive
- It doesn’t come with a grinder
- Requires to master some skills
- Doesn’t have a pressure gauge
Smeg 50’s Retro Style Aesthetic Drip Coffee Machine
Can you name a more retro-style, aesthetically pleasing espresso maker? This drip coffee machine is inspired by the 50s and will certainly add that vintage flair on your counter space. The 10-cup glass carafe ties the whole look together but this machine serves more than just looks.
Technically this is not an espresso machine, but it’s on our list because it makes one of the best drip ‘filter’ coffee, aka americano. What we absolutely love about this machine is the option of automatic brewing. The convenient Auto Start function lets you configure time to start the brewing process automatically so you can wake up to an aromatic, piping hot drink every morning. And even if you decide to press the snooze button ten times, fret not — the warming plate keeps your brew warm for an entire hour!
Pros
- 10-cup glass carafe
- 3 aesthetic color options
- Reusable coffee filter
- Anti-slip feet to avoid accidents
- Makes delicious drip coffee
- Water filter to adjust the water hardness
- Auto Start function for automatic brewing in the selected time
- Warming plate to keep your coffee warm for 60 minutes
- Intuitive digital control panel for ease of use
- Chic 50s retro style aesthetic design
- This coffee maker is easy to clean
Cons
- Small but ‘bulky’ design
- Slightly fussy setup process
- The glass jug is not dishwasher-safe
STARESSO Portable Home Espresso Machine
If drinking coffee in the morning is all it takes to set your mood straight for the long day ahead, do yourself a favor and get the STARESSO home espresso machine. It makes rich espresso with a thick layer of crema without the hassle of cords and electric plugs. You can either use ground coffee or Nespresso pods with this and it will always brew delicious Italian style espresso each time.
The 15-bar pump delivers just enough pressure for the hot water to go through the ground coffee, resulting in the “Golden Exaction Rate” espresso. And on days when you want to make other coffee drinks, this machine still has your back. You can use this manual machine to froth milk for lattes, cappuccinos, ice cream coffee, and any basically any espresso-based drink.
Pros
- Water tank capacity: 80ml
- Manual espresso machine
- Can store 0.53 ounces ground coffee
- Easy to read, descriptive manual
- Made with BPA-free material
- The pumping is effortless
- Great for traveling, camping, or at home/office
- Comes with a spoon for accurate measurement
- Detachable components for easy cleaning
Cons
- Cheap build quality
- You’ll need to get a coffee grinder
Flair Espresso Maker, Classic – Manual Press
This manual espresso machine does give a certain retro flair — that remarkably unmissable 1950s Italian cafe vibe. It’s a no-fuss machine with a lever to let you master the art of brewing a cup.
The Flair is easy to use and comes in a simple design, but if you’re always in a rush or you like getting ready while your coffee is brewing, this is not an ideal choice. Every step of the brewing process demands not just attention but also your action. This minimal style coffee maker lets you handcraft high-quality espresso exactly the way you like it.
The Flair also features a stainless steel brewing head that sets it apart from other machines and makes a consistent cup every time.
Pros
- Cylinder Water Capacity: 60ml
- Lever Pressure: 6 BAR to 10 BAR
- Stainless steel group head
- Pressure kit is available to buy
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Ergonomic lever design
- Cones with a custom travel case
- Makes consistent cup each time
- Durable base, post, and level
- Inexpensive manual espresso maker
Cons
- Not easy to travel with because of the design
- You need to get a separate coffee grinder
Bialetti Moka Stovetop Espresso Maker
With plenty of color options from the standard silver to aesthetic rose gold, the Bialetti Moka is a favorite among coffee lovers for decades.
Made in Italy, Moka pot doesn’t brew true espresso, but what comes out is a high-quality espresso-esque coffee nonetheless. It applies under 5 bars of pressure, compared to 10-15 in standard espresso makers, so the brew is in an interesting middle ground of an espresso shot and ‘regular’ drip coffee.
Moka pots were essentially designed for gas stoves or directly over the fire, so if you have an electric or induction stove, it may take longer for the brewing process. If you love grinding and filling your house with the aroma of freshly ground coffee, but hate tamping and milk frothing, the Moka Pot is the way to go!
Pros
- Stovetop espresso maker
- Affordable price tag
- Works great on gas stoves or over flames
- Very easy to use
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Can brew up to 12 cups of coffee
- Classic octagonal, Italian-made finish
- Small and compact but beautiful design
Cons
- Needs to be cleaned after each brew
- You may need to invest in a separate coffee grinder
Things To Consider Before Buying an Espresso Machine
Steam-driven vs pump-driven coffee machine
Espresso machines are either steam-driven or pump-driven.
Steam-driven machines further come in two types: stovetop espresso maker and pump-less electric ones. These machines are easy to use and will last you years on end. Also known as the Moka pot, or macchinetta del caffè, it pressurizes boiling water with steam and passes it through ground beans for an amazing cup of joe.
Pump-driven machines are a lot common in today’s world and may come in different types:
Manual espresso machine
Traditionalists love the manual espresso machine for the classic aesthetic of handcrafting a brew that they offer. Such machines feature a single boiler, pressure gauge, portafilter, and a manual lever for pulling the shot. No buttons or cords — this is as simple as it gets.
Semi-automatic espresso machine
With a semi-automatic espresso machine, you have to grind the beans, tamp them in the portafilter, and fix it to the group head. Turn the machine on and it will continue the rest of the brewing process. However, it doesn’t control the volume of water and you will have to turn it off after it has pulled the shot.
Automatic espresso machine
Just slightly more ‘advanced’ than the semi-automatic, this type of espresso maker will need you to grind and tamp the beans but will take the rest on. And, it will also turn itself off after it brews the espresso.
Super-Automatic espresso machine
This is the most expensive of the bunch — but it will do all the jobs for you, from grinding, tamping to milk frothing (in case you want a latte). Be ready to empty your pockets if you want the all-in-one appliance that can take on the entire brewing process.
Automated vs handcrafted coffee
When looking for espresso makers, first consider how much time do you want to spare for the brewing process. If you like to take a shower or dress up while your coffee is brewing, then an automatic or super-automatic espresso machine would be the right choice. However, if you want to indulge yourself in the brewing process and gain some craftsmanship of actually brewing a coffee, get a manual espresso machine that you the full control.
Single boiler vs double boiler
With a single boiler espresso maker, you can’t brew coffee and steam milk at the same time. You’ll do one of those first, wait for the system to heat up again, and do the second task. However, in machines with a double boiler, you can heat up both simultaneously and save your precious time.
Burr grinder
A grinder is the most important part of the brewing process regardless of what coffee machine you are using. Some machines today come with an integrated burr grinder, but if your machine does not, you will need to get a separate coffee grinder if you love whole beans coffee.
Portafilter and tamper
The handheld ‘device’ that holds your ground coffee is called portafilter. And the tool that helps you set the ground coffee inside the portafilter is called a tamper. This may seem like a mundane part of the process, but it helps to get just the right amount of ground coffee for the hot water to pass through. Eventually, this also dictates (a little) if your espresso will pass the taste test.
Conclusion
With the list of our top picks of the best espresso machines, whipping up a creamy latte or brewing a crisp espresso has never been easier. De’Longhi EC155 is a great option out of this list if your current bank balance hates you but your tastebuds crave delicious espresso coffee or cappuccino. At the end of the day, choosing a suitable espresso machine depends on how you like your coffee.
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