Even the nerdiest coffee geeks can struggle to choose the best home espresso machine. I've put dozens of espresso machines through their paces to find the best in each category. This guide gives you an overview of brands, models and types available, so you can decide which one is best for your needs.
Breville Barista Express | Calphalon Temp IQ Espresso Machine | DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro | Rocket Appartamento | Rancilio Silvia | DeLonghi La Specialista | Breville Oracle Touch | Breville Barista Express Impress | Breville Dual Boiler | Diletta Bello | Breville Barista Pro | Breville Infuser | Breville Duo Temp Pro | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 A solid step in your espresso journey. Easy to use Tons of adjustable settings Great value Grinder is rather limiting Not much steam pressure | A smart way to brew! Thermoblock and PID control Compact design Easy to operate Quite noisy in operation Only comes with dual-wall filter baskets | A solid upgrade! High-quality appearance Steam wand with plenty of power Heats up quickly Requires constant cleaning due to splashes when making espresso | It doesn't get much better than this! Beautiful design Commercial-grade components Heat exchanger boiler Might seem intimidating Small drip tray | Low price, High Power. Excellent workmanship Compact appliance Minimalistic Milk froth requires skill Risk of rust if poorly operated | Best Mid-Range Breville Espresso Machine! Great value for money Intuitive touchscreen interface Compact design Single boiler No auto tamping | Wakes you up to the art of good espresso — but makes you work for it. High-quality, super automatic and espresso-machine combo Intuitive setting options and functions Fuss-free, fantastic milk froth A lot of work to fine-tune settings | The Best Semi-Automatic Portafilter Machine on the Market. Genuine espresso Suitable for espresso newbies Automatic or manual milk frothing Very high price | Even better than the original! Intuitive user interface Stainless steel conical burr grinder Assisted tamping Rather bulky Limited steam power | Simply superb! Two boilers Digital PID temperature control Tons of customizable settings Supply chain issues have affected the price | Dazzling in every way! Heat exchanger boiler Powerful steam wand Accurate pressure gauge No milk pitcher included | I love this machine! 30 grinder adjustments Intuitive digital display Precise temperature control No pre-programmed drinks Quite a steep learning curve | Great if you already own a grinder! Compact design Stainless steel housing Simple user interface No built-in grinder Better value for money elsewhere | Small, consistent, simple! Compact design Simple, intuitive user interface Pre-infusion function Few customization options Auto shutdown works too quickly |
If you’re searching for the best home espresso machine, you’ve come to the right place. I’m excited to share all I’ve learned from dozens of reviews.
In the past, espresso machines had an image problem; consumers saw something labor-intensive and hard to operate. So, they often said: “Thanks but no thanks.” That’s why super automatic espresso machines exploded in popularity – they deliver similar results with far less hassle.
However, as more folks get excited about specialty coffee, the popularity of home espresso machines is on the rise. With that in mind, I decided to update this guide with the latest information. Here’s a rundown on what we’ll explore together:
Before we go any further, though, let’s make sure we’re on the same page. Here’s my home espresso machine 101:
Choosing the best home espresso machine is relative to each person’s needs, and depends on both price and features. With that said, the DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro and the Breville Oracle Touch are definitely strong contenders.
Absolutely! And not just because of how much money you could save by not visiting the local coffee shop every morning. Seriously, though, as long as you’re willing to put a little work in, learning how to prepare espresso is a hugely rewarding experience.
Again, if you’re looking for full control over every aspect of the espresso brewing process and you love the idea of manually steaming milk, a home espresso machine is the way to go. On the other hand, if you’d rather just press a button and call it good, maybe you should consider a fully automatic machine instead.
Before I give you all the details on my favorites, here’s a bit of background to my approach: much like with my super automatic reviews, if a unit doesn’t make sense for end consumers, I don’t review it.
Very good espresso machines can easily set you back $10,000. Who can afford that in this day and age? In light of such, I’ve set $3,000 as the upper price limit for the average end user. Anything priced north of that isn’t getting a second look.
Table of Contents
Whether you’re ready to spend some serious money, or you’re on a tight budget, you’re likely to be wary of jumping into a purchase. I mean, what if you make the wrong decision?
Don’t worry, I’ll explain everything you need to know before committing later in this guide. Heck, I’ll even give you a checklist to help you figure out whether it’s an espresso machine you actually want.
In the meantime, here’s a top 10 list of my favorite home espresso machines:
Intuitive user interface
Stainless steel construction
Thermoblock heating
High-quality construction
Automatic and manual milk systems
Smart tamping
Powerful steam wand
Sturdy and durable
Compact and minimalist design
Automatic or manual milk frothing
Makes excellent espresso
Touchscreen display
Great value for money
Stylish design
Easy to operate
The world has changed. It’s the dawning of a new age for home espresso machines. Manufacturers are constantly launching new prosumer, consumer and entry-level espresso machines into the market. The mid-range price segment is also buzzing with activity.
More and more folks are obsessing over the ideal combination of coffee beans, grind size and pressure. And, they’ve realized the hard truth: even with the best will in the world, a super-automatic machine just isn’t up to perfection.
Enter the hybrid machine. This relatively new category of espresso maker aims to fill the gap between super-automatic machines and professional portafilters.
As for the genuine article, there are tons of different options at a range of price points. What about the perfect all-rounder? The bottom line is there’s no such thing. The myriad of different machines operate on different principles and meet different needs. It’s much like buying a car. A soccer mom, for example, is more apt to benefit from an SUV than a pickup truck.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at a few things to consider when trying to find the best home espresso machine to fit your needs.
It’s likely that your budget will be at the forefront of your mind as you search for the best home espresso machine. Of course, there are those lucky enough to consider money as no object. But, I imagine most folks will have a limit as to what they can spend.
How much you can or should spend will also be determined by how much use your espresso maker will get. I like to think about it in terms of how much you’re dropping at the local cafe each morning. Seriously, that morning cappuccino probably costs around $5, which adds up quickly across the span of a month. It could be that a good espresso machine will pay for itself within a year!
Of course, you’ll be spending money on milk and coffee beans. Plus, you’ll likely need to invest in a good coffee grinder unless you’re buying a hybrid espresso machine. Ultimately, though, a home espresso machine can be a great investment that’ll save you money in the long run.
Deciding on which type of home espresso machine to buy comes down to a number of factors including budget, convenience and skill level. There’s also the question of how much time and effort you’re willing to put in. For example, you might love the idea of a manual-lever machine, but it takes a lot of trial and error to get good results from something like the .
Traditional single boiler machines like the Rancilio Silvia take a long time to heat up and can be difficult to handle. However, once you’ve mastered this machine you’ll get exceptional results. Dual boiler machines offer much more flexibility and are easier to use. Still, you’ll most likely have to spend more money for the convenience.
If you’re willing to spend a little more and want an authentic barista experience, a heat exchanger espresso machine like the Rocket Appartamento is the way to go. This type of prosumer machine uses commercial-grade components and will deliver the goods.
Of course, you can always consider a hybrid machine. These things have been gaining a lot of ground recently and for good reason. After all, the best hybrids will hold your hand if you want, or let you take over and get your barista on. While I’ll always advocate for an espresso machine and a separate grinder, hybrids offer an ideal compromise for a lot of people.
We all know how beautiful an espresso machine can be. Let’s face it, the Italians just can’t help but create stylish and attractive things, even when they’re just meant to be functional. Anyway, there’s no shortage of home espresso machines that’ll steal the show in your kitchen. With that said, many of the more budget-friendly options are more utilitarian in appearance.
Regular Coffeeness readers will know that I always prefer a coffee maker with plenty of stainless steel in its construction. Still, if you’re on a tight budget, you’ll likely have to settle for more plastic than metal.
One of the most important aspects to keep in mind is the size of the machine you’re interested in. Don’t forget to take measurements before purchasing. Remember, overhead cabinets could impede your ability to easily remove the water tank. Plus, you will need adequate space beside the machine so you can steam milk comfortably.
At this point, I should mention that just because you own a $3,000 machine doesn’t mean you’ll get great espresso. There are tons of factors involved in good espresso extraction, including grind size consistency, coffee bean quality and skill level. Most budget espresso machines will only take you so far due to their inherent limitations.
A machine with a pre-infusion function is always preferable. Plus, the more temperature stability the machine can manage, the better. As for filter baskets, there’s a lot of debate about whether bigger is better, but I’d say opting for single-wall baskets is more important. I’ll tell you why a little later.
Making milk froth with a steam wand is no cakewalk, which is why I dedicated an entire section to the subject in my article on milk foam. There, you’ll find all the basic pointers on how to perform the decidedly tricky wand procedure to create a pourable microfoam at just the right temperature.
Despite all the milk frothing finesse I’ve learned over the years, I have to admit that the automatic milk wands on many inexpensive espresso machines and hybrids are amazing! Okay, so they do nothing for developing your skill set. And not every automatic wand produces results that a latte artist would be proud of. But producing froth like the DeLonghi La Specialista is no mean feat!
Which is to say that professional-style milk wands are a hallmark of very premium espresso machines. Mastering the techniques for using one gives you a lot of status among the barista elite. If the thought of having to froth milk this way is one of the reasons a home espresso maker gives you the heebie-jeebies, fear not. The new generation of consumer machines will come to your rescue. And, they’ll do it more hygienically than the integrated system on a super-automatic machine.
I already touched on the importance of pre-infusion when it comes to extracting espresso. That initial dampening of the coffee grounds really helps develop aroma and complexity. Depending on the machine, you’ll be able to control the duration of the pre-infusion, which will only give you more control.
Another feature to look out for is PID temperature control. This is starting to show up on even the most affordable espresso machines and ensures temperature stability. Speaking of temperature, achieving the correct temperature for brewing can take quite a long time, which is why a thermoblock can be an attractive feature. Machines with thermoblock heating will usually be ready to roll in under a minute.
As for the user interface, some of the best espresso machines have little more than a pressure gauge. With that said, I’ve been really impressed by the touchscreen user interfaces on some hybrid machines. These usually offer programmable volumetric control, adjustable brewing temperature, one-touch specialty drinks and much more.
Personally, a gauge that indicates the pressure at the group head is what I always look for. I find this to be the most valuable tool in helping identify issues with espresso extraction.
Now that you have a clearer idea of what you’re actually looking for, it’s time to take a closer look at what each machine can do. Oh, and feel free to skip ahead to the model that interests you!
surprising quality for the price
Thermoblock and PID control
Compact design
Easy to operate
Powerful steam wand
Quite noisy in operation
Only comes with dual-wall filter baskets
After recently having spent time putting the Calphalon Temp IQ through its paces, I feel confident in awarding it the title of “Best Entry-Level” espresso machine.
Costing an entirely reasonable $294.75, the Calphalon Temp IQ has a host of impressive features, including PID temperature control, a thermoblock heating system and a commercial-grade manual steam wand. What’s more, I was pleasantly surprised by the weight and build quality of this machine – there’s more than enough stainless steel housing to make me happy.
Thanks to its straightforward user interface, operating the Calphalon Temp IQ is a piece of cake. Newbies and seasoned home baristas alike will have no problems getting going with this machine. Plus, that awesome steam wand works really well. I was able to create some silky microfoam during my testing.
My only complaint with this machine comes from the fact that it only includes dual-wall filter baskets. Beginners won’t struggle with these, but if you want to really get the hang of espresso extraction you’ll need to invest in an additional portafilter with a single-wall basket.
See Also: Calphalon Temp IQ Hands-On Review 2023
a lot of machine for the money
Compact and lightweight
Budget-friendly
Intuitive user interface
Thermoblock heating
Some stainless steel
Flimsy plastic tamper
Few accessories included
These days it seems like the market is flooded with affordable home espresso machines. They’re by no means created equally, though, making it difficult to find a winner.
That’s where the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine comes in. Although it costs just $172.99, this espresso maker packs a real punch. I just had to award it the title of “Best Budget Buy.”
For starters, the Gevi 20 Bar is lightweight and compact, making it ideal for small spaces. That’s not to say this machine isn’t powerful, though. Aside from the ample amount of pressure the machine provides, there’s also a thermoblock heating system on board. What’s more, dual thermostats control the temperature of the water for espresso and steaming.
As if all that wasn’t impressive enough, the Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine has a prominent LED display, which makes preparing a single or double shot of espresso a breeze. Overall, this home espresso maker is ideal for those on a budget, especially if counter space is limited.
See Also: Gevi 20 Bar Espresso Machine Review 2023
wonderful hybrid espresso machine
High-quality appearance
Steam wand with plenty of power
Heats up quickly
Produces fantastic milk foam
Requires constant cleaning due to splashes when making espresso
The DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro is a big, bulky beast of a hybrid espresso maker. I just love it! Costing $1,199.95, the La Specialista Maestro represents a sizable investment. Still, when you consider everything you’ll get from this beauty, I think you’ll agree it’s worth the money.
Featuring a built-in conical burr grinder with eight adjustment settings, dynamic pre-infusion and five adjustable temperature settings, the La Specialista Maestro offers numerous ways to dial in your espresso. There’s even a Smart Tamping Station that ensures the perfect amount of pressure each time. What’s more, there are two independent heating systems – one for brewing and one for milk steaming.
What really impressed me during my hands-on review of the La Specialista Maestro was its automatic LatteCrema milk system. Although there’s also a manual steam wand, I had a hard time beating the automatic system when it came to creating sumptuously silky milk froth.
All in all, the DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro is ideal if you’re looking for lots of the benefits of a super automatic but want more control over your espresso extraction. It’s little wonder I named it the “Best Performing” home espresso machine!
See Also: DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro Hands-On Review 2023
gorgeous prosumer machine
Beautiful design
Commercial-grade components
Heat exchanger boiler
Makes superb espresso
Compact footprint
Might seem intimidating
Small drip tray
If you’re new to the world of home espresso machines, you’d be forgiven for feeling a little intimidated by the Rocket Appartamento. However, this gorgeous work of art is actually really easy to use. Sure, there’s a learning curve involved, but that’s true for any espresso maker. The difference here is that this “prosumer” machine uses high-quality, commercial-grade components, so you’ll be able to get truly fantastic results.
For $N/A, the Rocket Appartamento is far from cheap. Still, if you’re set on being able to make professional quality espresso and milk foam, the price is worth it. Plus, the Appartamento is a real thing of beauty, and its retro-industrial vibe will definitely enhance your kitchen.
With its old-school knobs and levers, the Rocket Appartamento offers a tactile and traditional approach to espresso preparation. Other than a pressure gauge to monitor boiler pressure, there aren’t any screens, buttons or dials. Thanks to its powerful copper heat exchanger boiler, you can prepare espresso and steam milk simultaneously. Not to mention how the famous E61 group head ensures consistency.
All in all, the Rocket Appartamento represents a significant jump in quality from consumer grade espresso machines. If you truly want to develop your barista skills, it doesn’t get much better than this!
See Also: Rocket Appartamento Review 2023
cult classic
Excellent workmanship
Compact appliance
Minimalistic
Good steaming power
Easily available parts
Temperature stability = awesome espresso
Milk froth requires skill
I’ve been a huge fan of the Rancilio Silvia for a long time. First released in the late 90s, this awesome home espresso maker has hardly changed over the years. The machine’s classic boxy design, durable stainless steel housing and commercial-grade group head are all still in evidence, although there have been some improvements to the brewing thermostats.
The Rancilio Silvia is a single-boiler machine with few bells or whistles. That means you’ll need to wait around 20 minutes for the thing to heat up. You’ll also need to learn how to “temperature surf” in order to get the best out of the machine. However, that’s all part of the fun for many home baristas, myself included. Once you get the hang of using the Rancilio Silvia, it’ll offer a richly rewarding experience. You can get top-notch espresso from this machine. On top of that, the steam wand is as powerful as you could ever want.
Costing $859.95 on Amazon, the Rancilio Silvia represents extremely good value for your money. This durable, hard-working espresso machine will last for years. And, if something does fail there are cheap and readily available replacement parts.
See Also: Rancilio Silvia Hands-On Review 2023
Italian Classic
Extremely reliable
Durable construction
Easy to use
Professional steam wand
Rather heavy
Awkward water tank design
Another single-boiler home espresso maker that’s been around for years, the Gaggia Classic Pro is a steal at $443.16. Featuring rugged stainless steel construction and a sleek, minimalist design, the Gaggia Classic Pro has been serving home baristas well since 1991. Now, that’s what I call staying power!
As with the Rancilio Silvia, improvements have been made over the years, but we’re still looking at essentially the same machine. There’s a commercial-style 58 millimeter portafilter, powerful commercial-style manual steam wand and a generous 72 ounce (2.1 liter) removable water tank.
Although you’ll have to wait for the Gaggia Classic Pro to heat up, the improved aluminum boiler means we’re only talking around five minutes. Plus, when it comes to ease of use, the Classic Pro hits a home run. Seriously, there are three chunky buttons with lights and a steam dial. That’s it. In other words, you can concentrate on the important business of fine-tuning your espresso without any distractions!
See Also: Gaggia Classic Pro Review 2023
Best hybrid machine
Genuine espresso
Suitable for espresso newbies
Automatic or manual milk frothing
Easy to clean
Very high price
The Breville Oracle Touch is the machine that converted me to hybrid machines. Why? Because it succeeds in finding a reasonable middle ground between automation and the need to learn the ropes. You’re sure to pick up a whole bag of barista tricks – without needing to know every little detail – on your way to making yourself a good cup of coffee.
If you can’t decide between a super automatic and an espresso machine, the Breville Oracle Touch represents the best of both worlds. With its awesome built-in grinder and automatic tamping station, the Oracle Touch is a sophisticated device, to say the least. You can let the machine take care of all espresso preparation variables or take over and do the work yourself.
Thanks to its beautiful touchscreen display, the machine will walk you through all the steps involved in crafting any specialty coffee drink. Oh, and Brevile’s automatic frothing wand is a huge success. Though I was skeptical at first, the results from this thing were nothing short of phenomenal.
Costing $2,514.98, the Oracle Touch is, by far, the most expensive espresso machine on my list. However, thanks to its supreme capabilities, this machine easily justifies the financial investment.
See Also: Breville Oracle Touch Hands-On Review 2023
Perfect for beginners
Easy to use
Tons of adjustable settings
Great value
Stylish design
Solid and well built
Grinder is rather limiting
Not much steam pressure
While I didn’t exactly sing this espresso maker’s praises in my guide to the best Breville espresso machines, I have to admit that the Breville Barista Express is the obvious choice when it comes to picking the best entry-level hybrid machine. What’s more, its $704.99 price tag makes it an attractive proposition for those on a limited budget.
Featuring the Australian manufacturer’s distinctive design aesthetic and clad in brushed stainless steel, the Barista Express certainly looks the part. Not only that, the built-in grinder, with 18 adjustment settings, means this is an efficient and self-contained unit.
Although the Breville Barista Express is ideal for beginners, there’s plenty to keep more seasoned home baristas interested. Thanks to many adjustable settings and parameters, you can really dial in your espresso to perfection. Heck, there’s even a digital PID controller with finely adjustable temperature settings!
Although you’ll likely outgrow the Barista Express after a while, this is a solid hybrid espresso machine that’ll serve you well as you’re learning the ins and outs of espresso and milk steaming.
See Also: Breville Barista Express Hands-On Review 2023
A Great Way to Up Your Espresso Game
Heats up in under 10 minutes
Sleek design
Small footprint
Comes with a boiler and pressure gauge
Must cool down before water can be refilled
May overheat after some time
Okay, I admit it. I have a soft spot for machines like the . Since technology has made yanking levers redundant, that probably makes me a bit of a show-off. Plus, La Pavoni is a total diva whose every whim has to be met.
With the right treatment, however, it’s capable of producing espresso of a higher caliber than any other manual-lever machine. In fact, I’d go so far as to say well-extracted espresso from this machine just can’t be beat.
Here’s the thing, at $1,189.00, the La Pavoni professional requires a hefty financial investment. Not only that, it takes a lot of time, effort and patience to master the necessary skills to use this espresso machine. Suffice to say, the La Pavoni Professional isn’t for everyone.
With that said, home baristas willing to dedicate themselves to this machine will be richly rewarded. No other machine gives you such fine control over your espresso extraction. And let’s not forget that the La Pavoni Professional is a truly gorgeous machine to behold. There’s just no way that this beauty won’t attract envious stares from visiting guests!
See Also: La Pavoni Professional Hands-On Review 2023
awesome prosumer machine
Two boilers
Digital PID temperature control
Tons of customizable settings
Rugged stainless steel construction
Intuitive user interface
Supply chain issues have affected the price
During my Breville Dual Boiler review, I positively gushed about how much I love this espresso machine. Seriously, there’s just so much to recommend, and not just the fact that there are two boilers on board.
That being said, having two boilers is a huge advantage. It means you’ll be able to make espresso and steam milk simultaneously. Add in the fact that each boiler is precisely calibrated to the correct temperature and how the group head is actively heated and you know you’re onto a winner!
Other features, such as PID temperature control and volumetric control (by time or shot volume) are the icing on the cake. Plus, thanks to its intuitive user interface, large pressure gauge and multiple adjustable parameters, the Dual Boiler offers plenty for newbies and pros alike. Incidentally, Breville’s powerful manual steam wand really delivers too!
Costing $1,599.95, the Dual Boiler isn’t a budget option. Still, I believe this espresso maker is worth every penny and more.
See Also: Breville Dual Boiler Review 2023
For the most part, espresso machine manufacturers don’t hold back when it comes to releasing multiple variations on a theme. Take DeLonghi, for example. Here at Coffeeness, I’ve consistently expressed my frustration at the way in which the Italian powerhouse adds seemingly endless versions of its super automatics, each with a slightly different (and complicated) model number.
While DeLonghi’s home espresso makers are easier to sort through, there are still tons of machines to consider. Manufacturers like Gevi have jumped on the bandwagon too. Trying to wade through all the options can quickly get confusing.
With that in mind, I’ve decided to give you a quick summary of each brand. In addition to giving you some background on each manufacturer, I’ll offer tips on which machines to consider, as well as the ones that might not be worth your time.
I recently updated my guide to the best DeLonghi espresso machines, which helped put a few things into perspective. For starters, I was reminded just how successful the Italian manufacturer is when it comes to releasing popular, affordable and awesome fully automatic coffee makers.
Not only that, DeLonghi has really blazed a trail in the hybrid espresso machine segment. Seriously, the La Specialista series seems to just keep growing, so DeLonghi must feel like it’s doing something right. Other than the aforementioned hybrids, DeLonghi specializes in releasing dozens of budget-friendly espresso machines, some of which perform really well.
I just wish the Italians would quit referring to all their home espresso makers as “manual machines.” They’re not manual, they’re semi-automatic. Every last one of ’em. Anyway, here are a few of the affordable DeLonghi espresso machines I’ve reviewed:
Let’s give it up for Gaggia! Without the innovation of the company founder, Achille Gaggia, espresso as we now know it might never have existed. I mean, the guy dreamed up a new way to extract espresso using water pressure, effectively inventing crema in the process. Starting in the 70s, the manufacturer helped popularize home espresso machines, and in 1991 launched the beloved Gaggia Classic.
Let’s just say the company’s appetite for revolutionary espresso makers seems to have waned in the interim. Sure, the Classic Pro is a wonderful machine, but most of the rest of Gaggia’s lineup comprises unexciting machines with panarello wands and pressurized filter baskets. Sure, they look pretty, but you’re better off spending your money elsewhere.
On the flip side, Gaggia’s super automatics are on the up and up. I’ve reviewed several of these and have been consistently impressed. I guess the company’s focus is on the lucrative fully automatic sector now that Philips is the majority shareholder. Anyway, in case you’re interested, the Gaggia Carezza Deluxe could be worth checking out.
You have to hand it to Breville. The Australian manufacturer has set about dominating a specific niche of the home espresso machine market. They’ve honed in on how aspiring home baristas want more control over their espresso, but like a certain amount of automation too.
Just go and check out Breville’s website; they’re definitely catering to a specific type of “third wave” coffee drinker. Anyway, I’m all for it! Then again, you probably guessed by the amount of Breville espresso machines on my list.
As I’ve said elsewhere, what impresses me the most is Breville’s dedication to constantly improving its coffee makers. Rather than rest on its laurels, the manufacturer ensures its products get better with each new release.
I aimed to include the very best Breville espresso machines above. However, there are plenty of others to consider:
Established in 2017, Gevi is a relatively new name in the home espresso machine world. Based in Hong Kong, the manufacturer specializes in producing affordable machines without skimping on advanced features and materials.
Of course, you can’t expect that a Gevi espresso maker will offer top-notch results, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how good these machines actually are. Seriously, it’s not unusual to find PID temperature control, thermoblock heating and separate thermostats for espresso and steam on a Gevi machine.
I guess this just goes to show that we need to refresh our ideas of what “Made in China” represents. That label no longer automatically means a product is cheap and substandard. In my experience with Gevi espresso machines, it actually means affordable and well-made! Check out a few more examples of what Gevi produces:
Rancilio has been in the espresso machine business since 1927. The Italian manufacturer spends most of its time developing really high-end commercial espresso machines, and also owns Egro, which produces top-of-the-line super automatics. By that I mean $20,000 machines.
The good news for home baristas is that Rancilio hasn’t abandoned the Silvia espresso machine. Quite the opposite. In 2021, the manufacturer launched a pretty fabulous update called the Rancilio Silvia Pro X.
Featuring two boilers, adjustable PID temperature control and programmable pre-infusion, this baby really means business. There’s even a digital shot timer on the front of the machine. The Silvia Pro X ain’t cheap, though. You’ll pay $1,940.00 for the privilege.
If that’s too steep, the Rancilio Silvia with PID might represent a happy middle ground at $1,159.00. This is essentially the good old Silvia with a digital PID installed, so you can monitor temperatures instead of having to guess.
Founded in 2007, Rocket Espresso began as a partnership between a New Zealander and an Italian. The company produces a range of drool-worthy prosumer espresso machines as well as some very impressive commercial models.
All of Rocket Espresso’s home espresso machines are made by hand in Milan, and the attention to detail involved is pretty staggering. I guess that explains the eye-watering price you’ll pay for most models.
Seeing as I put a price cap on espresso makers I’m willing to recommend, there are only a couple of additional Rocket models I’ll mention:
La Pavoni didn’t invent the espresso machine, but the company founder knew an opportunity when he saw one. Desiderio Pavoni bought the patent for an early model from Luigi Bezzera, and started producing it commercially in Milan in 1905. The takeaway? These guys really know espresso.
La Pavoni produces some gorgeous semi-professional home espresso machines, but we’re talking serious cash. Although the manufacturer produces more affordable models, they aren’t readily available in North America. Still, if it’s a manual-lever machine you’re after, La Pavoni should be on your radar. Aside from the La Pavoni Professional on my list, there are a few other models to consider:
You guys often ask me which espresso maker I would recommend. Another question that comes up at least as often is whether you should put a home espresso machine or a super-automatic coffee machine in your shopping cart.
The short answer is:
Doesn’t matter – as long as you use decent coffee beans.
For the longer version, you also need to answer this question:
How committed are you to making espresso?
And I don’t just mean in terms of willingness to learn, but also the time, money and patience involved. An espresso machine isn’t just nice to have the way a fully automatic is. To make authentic espresso, you have to use a portafilter. What comes out of super-automatic is espresso-esque. I could go on.
But that won’t help anyone. Instead, I’ve made you a kind of checklist with typical questions and answers to match. If there is anything important missing here, feel free to leave me a comment!
I’d need half the Internet to really get into the nitty gritty of espresso machine functioning. And you’d need an engineering degree just to understand me. However, none of that is necessary to get a handle on the basics:
According to the Italians, your machine is only one of five factors needed to create great espresso. They call it the 5M formula:
Although the formula never changes, you can tweak the variables to suit your taste, shot size, choice of blend and machine characteristics.
So you see, there’s more to mouth-watering espresso than just a machine. An insanely expensive professional machine can still produce a foul brew if you neglect the other aspects or use inferior quality coffee beans.
It’s NOT having the flashiest tools that makes a master barista, but knowing how to use them!
That little word “need” tells you the whole story: investing in making espresso unfortunately doesn’t begin and end with the machine. After all, unlike with super-automatic espresso machines, not all home espresso makers have a built-in coffee grinder. Which means buying a separate one.
Even if you dodge that bullet by getting a hybrid machine, you’ll notice after a bit of playing around with what comes in the box that something is missing. You haven’t yet reached absolute portafilter nirvana.
Let me help you out with a whistle-stop tour of the most important espresso machine accessories – from the essential to the optional extras:
Or better yet … an exceptional espresso grinder. One of the drawbacks to many entry-level automatic models is that they don’t grind the beans finely enough to ensure sufficient pressure builds up in the portafilter.
Believe it or not, you almost never encounter this problem with good manual espresso grinders like my Comandante (pricey) or the Porlex Mini. But who wants to crank up an arm cramp every time they want a shot of espresso?
Not sure what I mean by an exceptional grinder? Check out these three beauties, all of which feature in my coffee grinder guide 2023. Any of the following grinders are ideal for pairing with a home espresso machine:
For the most part, an espresso-worthy grinder will carry a rather hefty price tag. Based on my long-term testing, I can confidently tell you that the grinders I’ve mentioned are practically indestructible. What’s more, you’ll be hard pressed to find a grinder in this price range that produces a more even grind.
And don’t be so quick to dismiss a separate grinder just because you have a hybrid machine. With a standalone grinder, you can save yourself a lot of the hassle of resetting the DeLonghi La Specialista when, for example, you try out new beans. It’s not essential, but worth considering.
Let me be brutally honest. Many of the espresso makers I’ve tested for you come with a tamper that looks like something out of a Cracker Jack box. Most of them are not ergonomically designed. Plus, they’re too flimsy which is why you can’t generate that all-important surface pressure of about 30 pounds.
No pressure, no properly packed coffee puck. Insufficient resistance means the water passes through the ground coffee too easily. Not only will your espresso be under extracted, you’ll find a sloppy mess inside the portafilter when you remove it. Bottom line: Tamping saves the espresso!
Things usually go better when there’s an automatic tamping station – as on the DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro. But it doesn’t always produce the level of compaction you want. Or the mechanism is acting up. You get the picture.
A decent tamper is a convenience that needn’t cost the earth. Check out my espresso tamper guide for more information on how to tamp correctly, as well as inspiration for which tamper to buy.
So far, I haven’t settled on a favorite tamper. What matters to me is that the base is made of a very heavy and smooth alloy. The handle should be shaped so it fits perfectly in my hand, allowing me to apply firm downward pressure properly without pain.
So how do you get a used coffee puck out of the portafilter? Espresso machine manufacturers usually step back from the process at this point and leave it entirely up to you. You could bang your portafilter on the edge of the garbage can – ew! Otherwise, you have to find a suitable receptacle lying around the house or buy a knock box.
For your tabletop waste bin to be a knock box, it needs one special feature – the crossbar that you whack the edge of your portafilter against so that the coffee puck pops out in one go.
Considering the beating it’ll take, your knock box should be sturdy and as heavy as possible. A rubber or similar coating on the crossbar also helps dull the noise.
A dedicated knock box isn’t just a question of hygiene and rounding out your coffee station. It’s also a form of quality control. Observing how the puck comes out of the portafilter and how well it keeps its shape when it lands in the container tells you a lot about how successfully you pulled your shot.
A pile of wet mud that plops into the container is just as bad as a bone-dry briquette that crumbles into dust on impact. The perfect puck remains largely intact before drying out and disintegrating.
Do you need a milk pitcher that handles like a precision tool? Not unless you want to become a master of latte arts. Everyone else should be fine using the jug that arrives with their machine. If the manufacturer didn’t supply one, hop on Amazon and order this stainless steel milk pitcher. It’ll only set you back $12.99, but it’s more than good enough for a home barista.
Milk pitchers are shaped to facilitate frothing and are totally impervious to heat and steam. Do yourself a favor and stick with the stainless steel variety. Some showoffs like to use glass, but I’d say they’re just asking for trouble.
When your money is burning a hole in your pocket and you’re running out of ideas for what to spend it on, a tamping mat is sure to spark just as much joy as a fancy wooden cleaning brush. Of course, you can also splash out on a drawer base for your coffee pucks. And don’t even let me get started on the most exquisite espresso cups.
But before forking out for toys and accessories, always make sure you’re spending money on choice coffee beans. No supermarket brands, no mass-produced beans of dubious origin. Look for independent roasters who are not only open about their procurement channels and sources of supply but also take pains over the roasting process.
This really is non-negotiable. There’s a good reason that the “miscela” (blend) is what comes first in the 5M formula.
I’m not going to waste your time with an in-depth intro to the theory of espresso extraction using a portafilter machine. That would be pretty pointless. Because with these machines more than any other, learning by doing is the only way. And repeat. Over and over again. After all, no two machines – or grinders – are exactly alike.
Instead, here are a few good tips to help you eliminate common mistakes and get you pulling barista-quality espresso faster.
Time and again, you’ve heard me be a bit rude about dual-wall or pressurized filter baskets. Which may have given you the idea that not all baskets are equal. A quick way to tell an entry-level espresso machine from a more professional one is by checking the filter baskets – and sometimes the holders.
All you have to do is flip the baskets upside down and feel them:
If the baskets are double walled and have only a few small holes or a single hole at the bottom, they are “crema” baskets for beginners.
Baskets with a single wall and a base that looks like a strainer are the professional versions.
As the alternate name “crema strainer” suggests, this is all about producing that hotly debated layer of foam on an espresso. Whether you consider crema important for espresso or not, its presence is a foolproof indicator that your 5M preparation process is gelling nicely.
Achieving the necessary pressure is usually where the wheels come off. To do this, you need to dovetail four of the five aspects: machine performance, puck compression, grind and coffee dosage. Beginner machines and beginner skills often miss the mark on all four.
Which is where double-walled baskets come in. The smaller hole compensates for these shortcomings by creating the necessary resistance to the water. It’s a bit of a cheat to help you pull a drinkable espresso.
Of course, no pro would be seen dead with such things. Proper – perfectly calibrated – machinery and an unfailingly deft touch mean seasoned baristas are aiming for full, even and clean extraction. With a basket that’s up to the task.
Real purists go for the “naked” (bottomless) portafilter without the usual spouts. That way, you can watch the espresso extraction process directly. Some professionals even insist that it’s better for the coffee not to come into contact with too much metal or worse – plastic (cheap machines!).
Rationalizations for this thinking range from hygiene issues, through questionable materials, to how contact with metal reduces the temperature. I like naked portafilters, too. But my priority is a quality basket and a handle that fits perfectly in my palm.
Compared to a super-automatic machine, the cleaning list for an espresso machine is an absolute cinch. No milk hoses, no internal brewing group and no built-in grinder to painstakingly disassemble.
Unfortunately, this often lulls people into thinking that the usual flushing between shots is good enough and they can let the deeper cleaning slide. However, they’re forgetting about all the water that’s been used. And where there’s water, you’re going to have to descale.
Depending on the machine, I generally recommend up to six different cleaning steps, which you have to perform with varying frequency and intensity:
Before, between and after each espresso shot
Before, between and after frothing milk
Every time the reservoir is empty
At the end of a day’s use
Once a week, depending on frequency of use
Once a month, depending on usage levels
The key tool for this job is the blind basket, which is a filter basket without any holes. If you have the Breville Bambino Plus, it’s called the backflush disc. Whatever you call it, its job is to stop the water flowing out of the portafilter and keep it in the machine.
I’ve even heard it referred to in German as “letting the machine gargle.” Which is actually pretty accurate. Seeing as the dissolved detergent has nowhere else to go, it circulates around the brew group until it’s spotless.
If that sounds elaborate and complicated, it’s not. Seconds later, you’re all done. Make a habit of it and it soon becomes part of your routine. Cleaning a home espresso machine is really no big deal.
Descaling an espresso machine also sounds like a chore. Don’t worry, you don’t have to do it as often as cleaning and it’s a pretty routine affair. Of course, descaling intervals depend on:
In fact, descaling is easier and the intervals are longer than for a super-automatic. We’re talking once a month or even once a quarter.
Keeping an eye on your machine’s outward appearance will help you gauge things. When you spot mineral buildup in the coffee, on the portafilter handle or in the brew group, it’s almost too late.
For starters, simply put the descaler in the water tank or a bowl and allow all the moving parts to soak for the appropriate length of time. Portafilter baskets and handles should soak for about 30 minutes before being thoroughly washed and dried.
Fill the water reservoir with water and the appropriate amount of , and leave it to stand for a similar length of time. The same goes for steam wand tips (the kind that unscrew) and shower screens.
If you own a manual espresso machine such as the La Pavoni Professional, consider using an eco friendly citric acid descaler. Seeing as the La Pavoni boiler is nickel plated you can use citric acid with confidence.
However, this isn’t a good choice for espresso machines with aluminum boilers because the citric acid can cause them to corrode. Instead, consider using DeLonghi EcoDecalk Descaling Solution, which is a solid eco friendly option.
If you’ve made it this far, it probably means you’ve decided to skip the super automatics and jump onto the espresso machine train. That’s simply fantastic!
Whether you’re upgrading to a prosumer machine or starting out with an entry-level device, the future will be full of new discoveries. Becoming your own barista can be challenging at times, but the results will be worth it. Pinky swear.
My hope is that you found your new dream machine in this guide. Moreover, I hope you picked up some valuable information about preparing espresso and milk foam along the way.
Feel free to bookmark this page so you can jump back in if you need a refresher. Anyway, I’ll be updating my guide from time to time as more machines hit the market.
That’s a wrap! What’s the best home espresso machine in your opinion? I know you guys love to share your knowledge and experience, so feel free to reach out with any questions or comments!
