If you're looking for the best espresso machine under $1000, you're in luck. As it happens, this is the sweet spot in terms of price-performance ratio for home espresso makers. Essentially, you're going to end up with a machine capable of making a superb espresso shot, cappuccino or americano. Plus, you'll have loads of models to choose from.
If you’re looking for the best espresso machine under $1000, you’re in luck. As it happens, this is the sweet spot in terms of price-performance ratio for home espresso makers. Essentially, you’re going to end up with a machine capable of making a superb espresso shot, cappuccino or americano. Plus, you’ll have loads of models to choose from.
Still, not all espresso machines under $1000 are created equal, which is why I’ve compiled this list of my top picks. I’ll also give you a quick rundown on what to look for in an espresso machine at this price point.
Incidentally, if you want more detailed information on brands, espresso preparation and accessories, check out my best home espresso machine guide 2024!
Best Espresso Machines Under $1000 at a Glance
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick look at the espresso machines under $1000 I’ll be reviewing today.
Breville Barista Pro
Built-in grinder
Intuitive user interface
Precise temperature control
Gorgeous design
Makes superb espresso
Powerful steam wand
Assisted tamping
Built-in grinder
Stainless steel construction
What to Expect from an Espresso Machine Under $1000
I’m sure you won’t be surprised to learn that truly high-end home espresso machines cost many thousands of dollars. In fact, I had to put a price cap on the machines I could select for my prosumer espresso machine guide 2024.
So, although a budget of $1000 will allow you to choose from a wide range of models, you’ll still be looking at a mid-range home espresso machine.
With that said, you’ll be relieved to hear that there are some truly special machines available for under $1000. Plus, you can expect to find machines with durable construction, thoughtful features and even some commercial components at this price point. Not only that, all the machines on my list are capable of producing delicious espresso and fantastic milk foam.
In my guide to the best espresso machines under $500, I wondered why you’d want to spend more, given the quality on offer at that price point. Well, I can answer that here by saying that a budget of $1000 gives you the freedom to choose from a range of machines with built-in grinders. These offer the convenience of a super automatic espresso machine and the versatility of a semi automatic espresso machine.
That’s huge, seeing as a good espresso grinder can cost as much as a good espresso machine. With that said, if a hybrid machine isn’t what you’re looking for, check out my best burr coffee grinder guide. You’ll find a couple of reasonably priced espresso grinders there that’ll fit into your budget.
The 5 Best Espresso Machines Under $1000
Rancilio Silvia
PROS
- High-quality build
- Powerful steam wand
- 58mm portafilter
- Sleek, minimalist design
CONS
- Slow to heat
It’s no secret that the Rancilio Silvia is one of my all-time favorite home espresso machines. Seriously, for $900.00, the Silvia is one of the most budget-friendly ways to get into serious espresso preparation.
For starters, the Rancilio Silvia espresso machine is equipped with a 58mm portafilter and commercial-grade group head. What’s more, the machine’s professional steam wand really packs a punch.
Of course, mastering espresso preparation with the Silvia takes time and patience. Seeing as this is a single boiler machine, you’ll have to learn how to temperature surf in order to get consistent results. Oh, and you’ll have to wait for around 20 minutes for the thing to heat up in the morning.
However, once you’ve got to grips with the Rancilio Silvia, it’ll provide years of hard-working service and produce exceptional espresso and milk foam. Plus, let’s not forget to mention how cool this Italian classic will look in your kitchen!
See Also: Rancilio Silvia Review
Breville Barista Pro
PROS
- Built-in grinder
- Intuitive digital display
- Precise temperature control
- Tons of accessories
CONS
- Noisy grinder
- No dosing funnel
If you’ve checked out my guide to the best Breville espresso machines you’ll know how highly I rate the Australian manufacturer’s products. Seriously, these guys have really nailed it when it comes to producing high-quality espresso machines for aspiring home baristas.
While the Breville Barista Pro might not be one of the brand’s most high-profile machines, it’s definitely worth checking out if you want to spend less than $1,000. Plus, you won’t need to spend extra on a grinder – the Barista Pro has an awesome burr grinder built in.
Costing $833.99, the Breville Barista Pro represents incredible value for money. During my hands-on testing, I was really impressed by the machine’s intuitive digital user interface, as well as features like adjustable pre-infusion and volumetric control.
Best of all, the Barista Pro heats up in a flash, thanks to its innovative ThermoJet heating system.
Ultimately, there’s a lot to love about this espresso machine, and it’ll appeal to both beginners and experienced baristas.
See Also: Breville Barista Pro Review
La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola
PROS
- Small footprint
- Great value
- It’ll impress your friends
- Easy to clean
CONS
- Steep learning curve
- Small water tank
OK, so I’m fully aware that most of you will take one look at the La Pavoni EPC-8 Europiccola and continue scrolling to the next machine on my list. And to be honest, I wouldn’t blame you. After all, the prospect of taking on a manual lever machine like this is intimidating to say the least.
Still, if you’re prepared to put in the time and effort required to master this beautiful piece of Italian art, you’ll definitely be rewarded.
The La Pavoni Europiccola will set you back $989.00, which is quite the sum for a machine with practically no mod cons. Still, considering how durable and well made this thing is, the price is actually quite reasonable.
And don’t forget that the La Pavoni will make quite the statement in your kitchen with its shiny chrome accents and elegant silhouette.
Of course, you’ll need to spend time learning the ins and outs of this manual lever espresso machine. Still, in my experience, making espresso with the La Pavoni Europiccola isn’t as hard as you might imagine. Plus, once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll be in complete control of your espresso shots, which feels really good!
Related: La Pavoni Professional Review
DeLonghi La Specialista Prestigio
PROS
- Professional steam wand
- Attractive design
- Tons of adjustable settings
- Built-in grinder
CONS
- Steep learning curve
I’d be willing to bet that a lot of you will be looking for hybrid devices as you search for the best espresso machine under $1000. In other words, a fully contained espresso machine with a built-in grinder on board.
I have to say that I see the appeal; I mean, it’s all very well to drop a chunk of cash on a fancy machine, but without a decent grinder you might as well forget the whole thing.
Enter the DeLonghi La Specialista Prestigio, which blew my mind during my hands-on testing. Not only does this Italian espresso machine look the part, it’s capable of producing exceptional espresso. Plus, this baby has an assisted tamping function, making it an even more attractive proposition.
Sure, it takes time to figure out how to get the best out of the La Specialista Prestigio, but once you’ve dialed in, there are tons of intuitive and helpful adjustment settings for getting the best out of your beans.
Oh, and I should mention that the machine’s MyLatte Art steam wand works an absolute treat. In fact, it produced sumptuous microfoam that was better than I could have hoped for.
Costing $699.95, the DeLonghi La Specialista Prestigio is a shining star in the competitive hybrid segment.
See Also: DeLonghi La Specialista Review
Breville Barista Express Impress
PROS
- Assisted tamping
- Built-in grinder
- Intuitive user interface
- Stainless steel housing
CONS
- Rather bulky
- Limited steam power
If you’re a complete novice looking for the best espresso machine under $1000, the Breville Barista Express Impress could be just the ticket.
One of Breville’s more recent offerings, this hybrid espresso machine has been designed to be as user friendly as possible. So, as well as a pretty cool assisted tamping function, the Barista Express Impress features an Intelligent Puck System, which offers feedback on your dose via an illuminated sliding scale.
To be honest, I had mixed results using this feature, but that’s probably because I’m a control freak! In reality, I’d say the machine’s user friendliness will come as a relief to those just starting out on their espresso journey.
As with the Australian manufacturer’s other offerings, the Barista Express Impress looks great. What’s more, I was really impressed by the machine’s build quality – Breville seems to have strapped it up a notch or two with the Barista Express Impress.
Add in the fact that you’ll pay just $894.99, and I’d say the Breville Barista Express Impress is a serious contender for best espresso machine under $1000.
See Also: Breville Barista Express Impress Review
How to Choose the Best Espresso Machine Under $1000
Now that you’ve seen my picks for the best espresso machines under $1000, you’re probably getting pretty excited! Still, all the machines I’ve talked about are expensive, so you shouldn’t rush into a purchase. I mean, buyer’s remorse is real, right?
So, take a deep breath, relax and let’s look at a few things to consider before hitting the Buy Now button.
Type of Machine
At this price point, you’re able to choose from a fairly wide range of espresso machine types. As I mentioned earlier, a hybrid machine with a built-in grinder will likely appeal to lots of you. The convenience and cost effectiveness of this type of machine can’t be understated, but it might feel limiting after a while.
On the flip side, if you buy a more traditional machine like the Rancilio Silvia, you’ll need to spend extra on an espresso-capable grinder. However, that’ll allow you to dial in your shots with much more precision, and you can even upgrade to a better grinder down the road.
Finally, manual espresso machines like the La Pavoni Europiccola require the ultimate in barista skills. Still, if this type of challenge appeals to you, I say go for it!
Size and Design
When it comes to the aesthetics of any espresso machine, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Fortunately, a budget of $1000 allows you the luxury of choosing from a wide range of styles.
So, if a boxy, minimalist vibe is what you’re after, the Rancilio silvia will fit the bill. Alternatively, the La Pavoni Europiccola will appeal to those who want an espresso maker to make a statement.
Most home espresso machines are fairly compact, seeing as they’re designed to fit into a domestic setting. Still, remember to take precise measurements before committing.
That goes double for those of you with overhead cabinets in your kitchen. Remember that you’ll need to access stuff like the water tank and bean hopper on a regular basis, and that moving the machine around all the time will quickly get old.
Build Quality
To be honest, all the espresso machines on my list are durable and well made. With that said, it’s worth mentioning that not all espresso makers are created equal. Even at this price point.
With that in mind, look for a machine with plenty of stainless steel housing and as little plastic as possible. Personally, I pay special attention to portafilter handles – although they’re almost always made of plastic, some are more durable and well-designed than others.
Features
If you’re looking for a machine that’ll hold your hand as you learn the art of espresso preparation, either of the Breville models on my list will fit the bill. Take the Barista Express Impress, for example – it’ll give you feedback on your grind, tamp and dose, all of which are vital factors for a successful extraction. You’ll also have access to a ton of adjustable settings for pre-infusion, shot volume, water temperature and more.
With that said, you’ll get more professional results from putting the work in with a manual lever machine or a single boiler like the Rancilio Silvia.
If you plan on making milk-based coffee drinks and creating latte art, the quality of the machine’s milk frother will be high on your list of priorities. For the most part, you can expect a manual steam wand, which takes a little practice to get the hang of. However, some espresso machines do have automatic milk frothers, such as the DeLonghi La Specialista.
Performance
As I’ve already mentioned, all the best espresso machines under $1000 are capable of producing excellent espresso. Still, a more traditional single-boiler machine takes time to heat up and often requires a little finessing to maintain a consistent temperature.
If diving deep into temperature surfing doesn’t sound fun, consider a home espresso machine with a digital PID controller. This will ensure that the machine stays at the desired temperature without you having to lift a finger.
Decision Time
One thing’s for certain – if you’re fortunate enough to have a budget of $1000 for your next home espresso machine, you’ve got loads of options. Whether you’re looking for an all-in-one setup that’ll be ready to go right out of the box, or a challenging device that’ll test your barista chops, there’s plenty to choose from.
Either way, you can be certain of finding an espresso maker that’ll really deliver in terms of quality. By spending around $1000, you’re investing in a machine that’ll stand the test of time and allow you to seriously up your espresso game.
What’s the best espresso machine under $1000 in your opinion? Is there an awesome machine missing from my list? I look forward to your comments!
