Even the nerdiest coffee geeks can struggle to choose the best home espresso machine. In my espresso machine reviews I've personally tested dozens of models to find the best in each category. This detailed guide gives you an understanding of models and types available, so you can decide which one is best for your needs.
Espresso Machines Reviewed
Espresso Shots Pulled
Hours of Testing
 Time and patience required Affordable espresso machine Can produce exceptional results Clever design Steep learning curve Lots of small parts View offer ! This article contains affiliate links |  A solid step in your espresso journey Easy to use Tons of adjustable settings Great value Grinder is rather limiting Not much steam pressure View offer ! This article contains affiliate links |  An awesome entry-level hybrid Sleek and stylish design Intuitive user interface Zero Static grinder No dedicated hot water outlet View offer ! This article contains affiliate links |  Breville has done it again Intuitive touchscreen interface Assisted tamping Easy to use Limited adjustable settings View offer ! This article contains affiliate links |  A solid upgrade High-quality appearance Steam wand with plenty of power Heats up quickly Requires constant cleaning due to splashes when making espresso View offer ! This article contains affiliate links | It doesn't get much better than this Beautiful design Commercial-grade components Heat exchanger boiler Might seem intimidating Small drip tray View offer ! This article contains affiliate links | An exceptional machine High-quality build Small footprint Sleek, minimalist design Slow to heat Steep learning curve View offer ! This article contains affiliate links |  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 View offer ! This article contains affiliate links |  The best hybrid espresso machine one the market Genuine espresso Suitable for espresso newbies Automatic or manual milk frothing Very high price View offer ! This article contains affiliate links |  Even better than the original Intuitive user interface Stainless steel conical burr grinder Assisted tamping Rather bulky Limited steam power View offer ! This article contains affiliate links | Simply superb Two boilers Digital PID temperature control Tons of customizable settings Rather pricey View offer ! This article contains affiliate links |  A flawed diamond 30 grinder adjustments Intuitive digital display Precise temperature control Noisy grinder No dosing funnel View offer ! This article contains affiliate links |  Great if you already own a grinder Compact design Stainless steel housing Simple user interface No built-in grinder Better value for money elsewhere View offer ! This article contains affiliate links |  Small, consistent, simple Compact design Simple, intuitive user interface Pre-infusion function Few customization options Auto shutdown works too quickly View offer ! This article contains affiliate links |
Updated on: 5. September 2025 We aim to provide you with the most relevant content! However, prices and availability can change at short notice. That's why we've integrated fact checking into our editorial process. During this additional step, our team members make sure that every article has the most current information available. That way you're always up to date! If you happen to notice an issue, please leave us a comment. Thank you! Facts checked by Nicholas Marshall
Written by people for people
Updated on: 5. September 2025 We aim to provide you with the most relevant content! However, prices and availability can change at short notice. That's why we've integrated fact checking into our editorial process. During this additional step, our team members make sure that every article has the most current information available. That way you're always up to date! If you happen to notice an issue, please leave us a comment. Thank you! Facts checked by Nicholas Marshall
Written by people for people
Hi! My name is Arne. Having spent years working as a barista I'm now on a mission to bring more good coffee to the people. To that end, my team and I provide you with a broad knowledge base on the subject of coffee.
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, even the best espresso machines had an image problem; consumers saw something labor-intensive and hard to operate, and 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 espresso machines for home use is on the rise. With that in mind, I decided to update this guide with the latest information.
Table of Contents
Semi-automatic espresso machines provide an authentic espresso experience and offer opportunities for experimentation. While they usually require manual dosing and tamping, these machines use pumps and likely include some level of automation and adjustable settings.
With a manual espresso machine, the user is in charge of creating the pressure required for extraction. With that in mind, these machines are ideal for those who are willing to put in the effort required to master advanced barista skills.
While not capable of producing “true” espresso, many fully automatic espresso machines can come fairly close. This makes them ideal for those looking for the most convenient home espresso machine. Feel free to head on over to our guide to the best fully automatic espresso machines to find out more.
NOTE: Super automatics (also called fully automatic espresso machines) can’t really be considered authentic espresso machines because the user can’t exert enough control over the outcome. With that in mind, fully automatics don’t meet the criteria for this home espresso machine guide. However, because they’re so practical and easy to use at home, I still wanted to include one or two if you’re searching for a more convenient option. This is why I’ve created a special separate section if you want to learn more. So, jump there if you’re interested. For the rest of you, keep reading about the home espresso machines I’ve selected for you.
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 explain everything you need to know in my how to choose an espresso machine companion guide. So, head over there first if you need tips and pointers about which espresso machine might be your best bet.
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.
The best professional espresso machines for home baristas or commercial espresso machines can easily set you back $10,000. Who can afford that in this day and age? In light of that, 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.
With that out of the way, here’s a quick overview of the home espresso machines I’ll be discussing today:
Compact and affordable
Straightforward operation
Versatile steam wand
Compact design
Intuitive controls
Automatic frother
Touchscreen display
Built-in grinder
Makes great espresso
Clever design
Small footprint
Lightweight and portable
Powerful steam wand
Sturdy and durable
Timeless design
Stunning design
Brass boiler
Pressure gauge
Beautiful design
Heat exchanger boiler
Commercial-grade components
Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone who’s already familiar with espresso preparation, you may still be on the fence about which espresso machine you want. Here are some things to consider:
Let’s face it, how much you’re able to spend on a home espresso machine will play a big part in your decision. As it happens, you can find very reasonably priced manual, semi-automatic and fully automatic espresso machines. With that said, you’ll sacrifice quality by going for a bargain basement model.
If you’re fortunate enough to have a more substantial budget, you can get hold of a machine that’ll be capable of producing much more convincing results. And that’s the case for both fully automatic models and semi-automatics. Just remember that getting the best out of a prosumer espresso machine means investing in extra equipment like a high-quality espresso grinder, coffee scale and tamper.
I’m well aware that not everyone is as obsessed with espresso as I am! With that in mind, you should think about the kind of learning curve you want to deal with. So, if you prefer simplicity, a fully automatic espresso machine will be your best bet. However, those who want to get a little more involved and experiment with various settings and parameters should definitely opt for a semi-automatic home espresso machine.
And then there are manual espresso makers, which demand a lot from the user. These machines are ideal for purists who want complete control over every aspect of their espresso extractions.
Following on from what I just discussed, you should think long and hard about how much time you’re willing to invest in your daily coffee routine. A fully automatic espresso machine will have your coffee ready lickety split – all you have to do is push a button. On the other hand, both semi-automatics and manual machines require a more detail-oriented approach. And this could mean spending extra time dialing in your shots and manually steaming milk for your morning cappuccino.
I can’t overstate the importance of making sure you have enough room on your kitchen counter for your new home espresso machine. So, make sure to take accurate measurements before buying, paying close attention to any overhead cabinets that could cause access issues. Incidentally, it’s often the case that prosumer espresso machines and super automatics are on the bigger and bulkier side. Plus, if the machine has a rear-mounted water tank, you’ll need easy access for refilling.
No matter which type of home espresso machine you end up buying, there’s going to be cleaning and maintenance involved. Still, many fully automatic espresso machines come with automated cleaning programs, making them easier to maintain. As for manual espresso machines, cleaning and maintenance is usually fairly straightforward. Finally, a semi-automatic machine requires a good deal of daily maintenance if you want it to keep performing well. You won’t spend hours cleaning the thing, but you will have to get into the habit of cleaning the portafilter, rinsing the group head and backflushing the machine on a regular basis.
If you can’t survive without your daily latte, a machine’s milk system will be of the utmost importance. These days, fully automatic espresso machines almost always come equipped with sophisticated milk frothing systems that produce great results at the touch of a button. Plus, you’ll have a menu full of different drinks to choose from. Alternatively, semi-automatic machines have manual steam wands that demand a lot more from the user. And while there’s a learning curve involved, you’ll have full control over the results and be able to craft much more authentic cafe-style drinks.
If you’re a member of a coffee-loving family, you’ll need a machine that can keep up. Fortunately, there are plenty of fully automatic and semi-automatic machines with large water tanks and even dual boilers. On the other hand, you may be the kind of person who only makes espresso once or twice a week, so a huge machine could be more than you need.
Having established the factors to take into account when searching for the best home espresso machine, let’s break it down further. Here are my recommendations for how you should proceed:
If you value convenience, ease of use and don’t care about going down an espresso rabbit hole, you should consider buying a fully automatic espresso machine.
If you’re interested in some level of experimentation and want to be able to prepare authentic espresso, an entry-level semi-automatic espresso machine will be your best bet.
If you’re excited about learning the espresso ropes and your budget will stretch to additional espresso accessories, the home barista espresso machines on my list will deliver the goods.
If you consider yourself an espresso purist and want complete control over every aspect of your extraction, you can’t go wrong with a manual espresso machine.
Now that you have a clearer idea of what you’re actually looking for, it’s time to take a closer look at our home espresso machine reviews to see what each machine can do. Oh, and I’ve personally tested all of the machines you’ll read about below.
Regardless of whether a machine is manual, semi-automatic or fully automatic, I’ve grouped my top picks into two distinct categories. These are based on the most common needs for those making espresso at home: entry-level machines and home barista models.
| Entry-Level Machines | Home Barista Machines |
| DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe | Rancilio Silvia |
| Gaggia Classic Pro | Lelit Mara X |
| Breville Bambino Plus | La Pavoni Professional |
| Breville Barista Touch | Breville Oracle Jet |
| Flair Classic Espresso Maker | Rocket Appartamento |
In the entry-level espresso machine section you’ll find my top picks for best home espresso machine under $1000. That’s not to say these are all cheap and cheerful machines. In fact, I’d say many of these models will appeal to seasoned home baristas as well as beginners. Still, for the most part, these are budget-friendly and approachable espresso machines for home use.
In the second section you’ll find my high-end home espresso machine picks. These babies feature professional-grade components, improved build quality and usually require more user skill. Plus, you’ll need a more substantial budget. However, despite a steeper learning curve, these premium espresso machines offer a more authentic barista experience and can produce truly exceptional espresso.
simple and affordable
Compact and affordable
Useful settings
Easy operation
Good espresso and milk froth
For beginners only
There are plenty of budget-friendly espresso makers out there, so it can be difficult to find one that can actually perform.
Enter the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe, which costs just $239.99 on Amazon. Having put this compact and affordable machine through its paces, I can tell you it really is one of the best budget espresso machines on the market.
Beginners will appreciate the machine’s pressurized filter baskets, as well as the option to program espresso shots volumetrically. What’s more, I can see the Dedica Deluxe appealing to more advanced users, thanks to its adjustable temperature settings.
Best of all, the DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe is equipped with a thermoblock heating system, so it’ll be ready to make espresso or steam milk in just a few seconds.
Speaking of steaming milk, I was very impressed by DeLonghi’s pannarello steam wand during my testing. There are a couple of settings here, one for creating pillowy cappuccino foam and another for just steamed milk. Seriously, you don’t find that kind of versatility on many machines at this price point, making the Dedica Deluxe stand out from the crowd.
See Also: DeLonghi Dedica Deluxe Review
Italian Classic
Extremely reliable
Durable construction
Easy to use
Professional steam wand
Rather heavy
Awkward water tank design
A single-boiler home espresso maker that’s been around for years, the Gaggia Classic Pro is a steal at $450.04. I guess that’s why it earned the top spot in my guide to the best espresso machines under $500.
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 evergreen Rancilio Silvia, improvements have been made over the years, but it was pretty much the same machine that I tested during my review. 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
great starter machine
Beautiful design with a tiny footprint
Automatic milk frothing with temperature sensor
Good espresso
Very easy to operate
Good value for money
Substandard portafilter
A little too lightweight
The Breville Bambino Plus is a long-time favorite here at Coffeeness. In fact, I recently awarded it the “Best Overall” title in my guide to the best small espresso machines.
The Bambino Plus isn’t just defined by its compact size, though. In reality, this is a powerful espresso machine with a 54mm portafilter and an automatic pre-infusion function.
Costing $499.95, the Bambino Plus isn’t exactly cheap. However, the machine’s solid stainless steel construction and ease of operation make it more than worth the investment.
In fact, as I’ve said elsewhere, the Breville Bambino Plus is ideal for novice baristas looking for something more authentic than a fully automatic espresso machine.
With that in mind, it seemed like a no-brainer to include the Bambino Plus on my list of the best home espresso machines. Incidentally, I should mention that the Breville Bambino Plus has a fantastic automatic milk frother. Seriously, this steam wand even has a temperature sensor and allows you to adjust the milk texture to your liking.
During my testing I was able to pull delicious espresso shots time after time, and enjoyed playing around with the machine’s adjustable settings. Ultimately, the Bambino Plus will appeal to a wide range of home baristas, especially those with small kitchens and limited barista knowledge.
See Also: Breville Bambino Plus Review
Very intuitive Espresso Machine
Great value for money
Intuitive touchscreen interface
Compact design
Heats up fast
Makes fantastic espresso
Single boiler
No auto tamping
I still feel like the Breville Barista Touch is overshadowed by some of the Australian manufacturer’s more high-profile offerings. However, this fantastic home espresso machine is still one of my personal favorites. Plus, at $999.95, the Breville Barista Touch represents seriously good value for the money.
Thanks to its slick touchscreen interface and built-in stainless steel conical burr grinder, the Barista Touch is very user-friendly, making it an ideal choice for beginners. With that said, its performance and versatility will appeal to more experienced home baristas too.
Featuring sturdy metal and plastic housing and Breville’s trademark elegant design language, the Barista Touch will look lovely in any kitchen. And while it doesn’t have assisted tamping like some of its more expensive siblings, it does allow you to play with espresso parameters like preinfusion time, temperature and volume. What’s more, the machine’s grinder has 30 adjustment settings, so you can dial in your shots to perfection.
During my testing, I quickly learned to love the Breville Barista Touch’s interface, which is super intuitive and easy to navigate. I also appreciated the fact that I could bypass the timed dosing function and take more control if I wanted. To be honest, this might be my favorite espresso machine from the Aussie manufacturer.
With its 54mm portafilter and lightning-fast ThermoJet heater, the Barista Touch can pump out really good espresso. Oh, and it’s even equipped with an auto frothing steam wand that produces better milk foam than I can make by hand!
See Also: Breville Barista Touch Review
Makes sublime espresso
Affordable espresso machine
Can produce exceptional results
Clever design
Lightweight and portable
Great fun for espresso nerds!
Steep learning curve
Lots of small parts
Okay, I admit it. I have a soft spot for machines like the Flair Classic Espresso Maker. Since technology has made manual espresso makers redundant, that probably makes me a bit of a show-off. Plus, when I tested the thing I found that getting to grips with the Flair involves a pretty steep learning curve.
With the right treatment, however, it’s capable of producing espresso of a higher caliber than many semi-automatic espresso machines. In fact, I’d go so far as to say well-extracted espresso from this machine is hard to beat.
Fortunately, at $229.00 for the version with the pressure kit, the Flair Classic isn’t going to break the bank. Still, you will need a very capable espresso grinder. 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 Flair Classic isn’t for everyone.
With that said, home baristas willing to dedicate themselves to this machine will be richly rewarded. Few other machines give you such fine control over your espresso extraction. What’s more, the Flair Classic can quickly be taken apart and stored in its very own travel case. So, wherever you go you’ll be able to enjoy superb espresso!
See Also: Flair Espresso Maker Review
cult classic
High-quality build
Small footprint
Sleek, minimalist design
Powerful steam wand
Plentiful spare parts
Slow to heat
Steep learning curve
I’ve been a huge fan of the Rancilio Silvia for a long time. First released in the late 90s, this awesome home espresso machine has hardly changed over the years. The Silvia’s classic boxy design, durable stainless steel housing and commercial-grade group head are all still in evidence. However, there have been some improvements to the brewing thermostats. Trust me, that’s a good thing!
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 Rancilio Silvia. 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. I was able to get top-notch espresso from this timeless classic when I tested it out. On top of that, the steam wand is as powerful as you could ever want.
Costing $995.00 on Amazon, the Rancilio Silvia represents extremely good value for your money. In fact, it topped out my list of the best espresso machines under $1000. 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 Review
Prosumer Powerhouse
Gorgeous to behold
Rugged build
Tons of adjustable settings
Makes superb espresso
Professional-grade components
Rather expensive
Although its $1,699.95 asking price is way more than what you’ll pay for a traditional single boiler machine like the Rancilio Silvia, the Lelit Mara X represents a big step up in quality and performance.
As it happens, I recently put this prosumer espresso machine through its paces in the Coffeeness kitchen. And let’s just say I wasn’t disappointed.
Featuring a rugged stainless steel chassis and very compact footprint, this sleek and stylish home espresso machine won’t take up much space in your kitchen. However, it will attract attention. Far from just a stunning piece of kit, the Lelit Mara X is a real workhorse. It’s equipped with a 58mm group head, professional steam wand and an awesome heat exchanger boiler. It also sports a classic E61 group head and Lelit’s patented double probe system for temperature stability.
As if all that weren’t enough, the Mara X is rocking a PID controller with three temperature settings as well as two operating modes. When using the so-called Xmode Steam, the machine diverts more pressure to the steam wand. However, you can still pull a shot and steam latte art-worth milk simultaneously. On the other hand, you can put the machine in Xmode Coffee if you want to pull multiple shots in a row without a cooling flush.
Of course, you’ll need to learn the espresso ropes to get the best out of the Lelit Mara X. And you’ll need a very good espresso grinder. However, if you’re looking for a home espresso machine to grow old with, this might be your best bet!
See Also: Lelit Mara X Review
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
Is there a more iconic home espresso machine than the La Pavoni PC 16 Professional? I don’t think so. Then again, leave it to the Italians to create something that’s beautiful, temperamental and incredibly effective.
Costing $1,161.27, the La Pavoni Professional represents a serious financial investment. Not only that, you’ll have to invest a lot of time and patience in learning how to get the best from this timeless classic.
During my testing I approached the La Pavoni Professional with no small amount of trepidation. After all, I’d heard reports from plenty of baristas who had failed to get good results from this manual lever machine. However, the more time I spent experimenting, the more I realized that this espresso machine is simply uncompromising. You have to rethink things like grind size, bean freshness and extraction times. Plus, you’ll need a seriously good espresso grinder.
Featuring a decent-sized brass boiler and sumptuous chrome construction, the La Pavoni Professional is about as premium as it gets. What’s more, the machine features a prominent manometer that’ll prove invaluable for assessing your manual extractions. And unlike some lever machines, there’s even a professional-grade manual steam wand.
Ultimately, this is a niche espresso machine that’s only really suitable for true espresso freaks. It’s frustrating to use, overheats too quickly and isn’t any good for coffee parties. But it’s one of my favorite espresso machines of all time – I just love the thing!
See Also: La Pavoni Professional Review
New release
Sleek design
Awesome touchscreen
Improved milk system
58mm portafilter
Many adjustable settings
Not suitable for true espresso nerds
I just had to include the Breville Oracle Jet on my list of the best home espresso machines seeing as I finally tested it out recently. Trust me, this latest release from the Aussie powerhouse is as close as you can get to a fully automatic machine while still being able to make authentic espresso and barista-worthy milk foam.
At $1,999.95, the Oracle Jet is one of the most expensive espresso machines for home use on my list. Then again, it comes fully loaded with all the features you could ever wish for. Seriously, this thing is premium to the max, thanks to its built-in Baratza grinder with 45 settings and fully automated tamping function.
And of course, Breville has included the latest version of its highly successful Milk IQ system. This auto frother has always blown my mind with the quality of microfoam it can produce. Seriously, I don’t know how Breville does it!
Located front and center, the Oracle Jet’s large color touchscreen interface lets you control every aspect of your espresso extraction. Alternatively, you can simply let the machine guide you as you pick a drink and follow instructions. Trust me, this baby will appeal to experienced baristas as much as it will to complete novices. And because of the professional 58mm portafilter, those seasoned experts will be more than happy with the results.
Thanks to its ThermoJet heater, the Oracle Jet is ready to go in seconds. Plus, Breville has installed a dedicated heater in the group head for optimal extractions right off the bat.
See Also: Breville Oracle Jet Review
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, I found this gorgeous work of art to be really easy to use when I tested it. 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 professional results.
For around $2,000.00 from the folks at Seattle Coffee Gear, 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 well 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. And thanks to its powerful copper heat exchanger boiler, you can prepare espresso and steam milk simultaneously. Not to mention the famous E61 group head, that ensures thermal stability for consistent results.
All in all, the Rocket Appartamento represents a significant jump in quality from appliance-grade espresso machines — no wonder it’s one of the best-selling home espresso machines out there. If you truly want to develop your barista skills, it doesn’t get much better than this!
See Also: Rocket Appartamento Review
Both semi-automatic and manual espresso machines extract espresso by forcing water under nine bars of pressure through a compacted bed of finely ground coffee. In order to achieve a successful extraction, you must tweak parameters like grind size, the amount of coffee in the portafilter, amping pressure and more.
On the other hand, a fully automatic machine takes care of just about everything. Sure, you’ll have a few grind settings to play with, as well as some adjustable parameters. However, there’s no getting away from the fact that you have limited control and you’ll compromise on espresso quality.
With that said, I really do love super automatic espresso machines. And they are getting better all the time. It could be the case that one of these machines is the right choice for you, especially if thoughts like these are creeping into your head:
I love espresso and frothed milk drinks but don’t want to have to invest in tons of extra equipment.
My family is very coffee-politan — everyone likes something different.
I want a quick, no-hassle cup of coffee or latte in the morning.
I need a machine for the office.
Incidentally, if you find yourself somewhere in the middle, consider a hybrid espresso machine like the Philips Barista Brew.
In many ways, hybrids are much simpler than super-automatic coffee makers. But they don’t require the same level of expertise as a traditional espresso machine. Naturally, the integrated grinder and, in many cases, automatic steam wands are big pluses. And don’t forget the built-in tamper on machines like the Breville Barista Touch Impress. Best of all, you can whip up authentic espresso with one of these machines.
Anyway, as promised, here’s what I consider to be the best fully automatic espresso machine on the market right now:
Strong mid-range machine
LatteCrema Milk Frothing System
Color touchscreen display
Coffee Link app
Tons of adjustable settings
Easy to clean
Pot function is disappointing
Limited user profiles
The DeLonghi Dinamica Plus has long held the “Best Overall” title in my guide to the best fully automatic espresso machines. That’s because its price-performance ratio is so hard to beat.
Costing $1,499.00, the Dinamica Plus ain’t cheap. But in the super automatic world, it represents a real bargain.
Equipped with DeLonghi’s famous 13-step stainless steel conical burr grinder and an integrated LatteCrema milk flask, the Dinamica Plus is a powerful machine that allows you to whip up any number of specialty drinks at the touch of a button. And while you won’t get “true” espresso from this fully automatic machine, it does produce a top-notch version that’s very drinkable.
Although the dinamica Plus touchscreen display looks a little dated, it’ s still very intuitive and easy to navigate. What’s more, you can use the DeLonghi Coffee Link app to operate the machine from your phone.
Notes of Chocolate & Hazelnut
Easy on the stomach
Freshly roasted right in Brooklyn
Medium roast
Far be it from me to tell you how to choose coffee for your home espresso machine. After all, everyone has different tastes and expectations. With that being said, I would like you to know what your options are, and I can throw in a few tips to help you along the way.
Of course, it almost goes without saying that you should use high-quality, freshly roasted beans and grind ’em right before use. Oh, and please favor small, independent roasters over supermarket giants!
Personally, I almost always use a coffee blend that’s been crafted for espresso when I’m pulling shots. That’s because I’m more likely to experience a well-rounded shot with plenty of body, complexity and satisfying sweetness. Speaking of, my Coffeeness Signature Espresso Roast fits the bill perfectly. An expertly crafted blend of high-quality Brazilian beans, it delivers notes of chocolate and nuts while maintaining a subtle sweetness.
These days, single origin espresso is all the rage. And while I can appreciate an espresso shot pulled using a light roast Ethiopia Yirgacheffe, I always feel like I’m drinking something experimental. Still, I do recommend experimenting with different coffee beans and coffee roast profiles. After all, that’s all part of the fun of espresso preparation!
Of course, I should remind you that good coffee beans don’t matter if you aren’t using good equipment. In saying that, I’m referring to the whole espresso grinder thing. Listen, you don’t have to go crazy here, but don’t skimp either. I mean, if you spend all your cash on a machine and use a substandard coffee grinder, you’ll end up living in a world of frustration and regret. Just sayin’!
You probably don’t need me to tell you that regular cleaning and maintenance will prolong the life of your espresso machine. Oh, and it’ll also keep your espresso quality high and make you feel good about yourself too! So, as much as this is rather a boring topic, I feel compelled to give you the lowdown on what to expect.
By the way, don’t forget to pay special attention to your burr coffee grinder as well. Whether it’s built-in or a standalone model, you should remove the burrs on a regular basis before brushing them off. And while you’re at it, feel free to vacuum out the burr chamber to remove dust and stray coffee grounds.
Compared to super automatic machines, cleaning a semi-automatic espresso machine is an absolute cinch.
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.
For most espresso machines, I generally recommend up to six different cleaning steps, which you have to perform with varying frequency and intensity:
Before, between and after brewing espresso shots
Quickly clean and dry portafilter handles and baskets.
Remove coffee grounds from the brew group and shower screen. Use a special brush, if necessary.
Flush the brew group. Let a little hot water pass through the machine without attaching the portafilter.
Before, between and after frothing milk
Clean and dry milk pitchers.
Quickly purge the wand with steam.
Remove milk froth residue from the wand’s exterior with a clean, damp cloth reserved exclusively for the purpose.
Every time the reservoir is empty
Briefly rinse the tank before refilling.
At the end of a day’s use
Flush and brush the brew group.
Deep clean and dry all removable components (baskets, handles, water tank, milk pitcher, drip tray, tamper, knock box, etc.).
Allow the steam wand to soak in a glass of water then thoroughly wipe down.
Once a week, depending on frequency of use
Backflush the brew group using a blind basket (see below).
Once a month, depending on usage levels
Backflush the brew group with a blind basket, using a little espresso machine cleaning powder.
Descale the machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The key tool for backflushing is the blind basket, which is a filter basket without any holes. If you have a Breville machine, 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.
Honestly, there’s a lot less to say about cleaning and maintaining a manual espresso machine. With that said, some manual machines are more complicated than others and will require more care and attention. Still, with the Flair Espresso Maker, for example, there’s little more to do than remove the brewing cylinder, dispersion screen and portafilter and rinse the lot under warm water. No backflushing, no descaling, no problem!
If you own a manual espresso machine like the La Pavoni Professional, things will look a little different. I mean, it has a steam wand, so you’ll need to make sure it’s free of residue after each use. What’s more, you will need to descale the boiler every once in a while, depending on the hardness of your water. Fortunately, this process is super simple – you just need to add citric acid descaler to the boiler and let it soak for half an hour.
Every machine is different, so it’s hard to give comprehensive instructions on how to make the perfect espresso. For example, pulling a shot with the Flair is a totally different experience when compared to making espresso with the Breville Oracle Jet. Still, for the purposes of this guide, I’ll give you a brief idea of what to expect from a semi-automatic machine like the Gaggia Classic Pro.
Before we get into the steps for pulling a shot, I should remind you to invest in a good espresso grinder. Plus, you’ll get better results by investing in a good espresso tamper. Oh, and using a quality coffee scale is non-negotiable, so check out my Acaia Pearl review to learn about the best of the best.
As for all the other fancy espresso coffee equipment out there, a distributor is nice to have, but far from essential. Same goes for puck screens and levelers. However, a WDT tool is something I simply can’t live without.
Start by wiping out your filter basket with a dry cloth. Then, weigh out your coffee beans and grind them before dosing your portafilter. Depending on the size of your filter basket, the amount of coffee you should use could be anything from 12-22 grams. And while you should try to keep your dose consistent, you may need to adjust it, depending on the type of coffee beans you’re using.
You’re aiming for a solid coffee puck that’ll provide the maximum resistance against hot water under pressure. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to distribute the finely ground coffee beans using a WDT tool, which you now know is one of the best espresso accessories out there. Once that’s done, grab your tamper and compress the bed of coffee firmly and evenly.
Thermal stability is vital during espresso extraction, so make sure your group head is at the correct temperature by flushing it with hot water. This is especially important if you’ve just fired up your thermoblock espresso machine, seeing as the group head will still be cold.
Lock the portafilter into place in the group head, then place your coffee scale and espresso cup underneath. Next, start your espresso extraction and timer simultaneously.
Your brain will be multi-tasking big time at this stage. You should be keeping an eye on the timer, scale and pressure gauge (if your machine has one) as your shot is pulling. Not only that, you should monitor the espresso flow rate as well as the color of its crema. The specific yield and extraction time will depend on your espresso recipe. But for a 1:2 brew ratio using 20 grams of coffee, you’ll want to see a 40-gram shot of espresso in around 25-30 seconds.
If your shot ran way too fast or slow, you’ll know that a grind adjustment is in order. And if the espresso flowed unevenly, you should address your distribution and tamping technique. I do recommend tasting your espresso, no matter what it looks like. Not only will you learn more about espresso, you’ll find that sometimes a borderline shot can actually be really tasty!
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 the best budget espresso machine, 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.
I’ve spent countless hours testing home espresso machines in the Coffeeness kitchen. And any time a new model arrives, I make sure to put it through its paces over several sessions. After all, my aim is to provide you with authentic reviews of the very best home espresso machines on the market. And if a particular model doesn’t cut the mustard, I’m never afraid to tell it like it is.
I adhere to the following criteria when I’m evaluating any espresso machine for home use:
Espresso quality: I always use high-quality, freshly roasted 100% Arabica coffee beans. I pull shot after shot, evaluating the results in terms of body, complexity and balance. When a machine offers adjustable settings, I always make sure to tweak parameters to measure their effectiveness.
Consistency: I spend days testing a given machine, evaluating its consistency in terms of temperature stability, heat-up time and general performance.
Ease of use: I always try to approach an espresso machine as a beginner might. With that in mind, I’m able to assess the effectiveness of the user interface and whether or not the machine is intuitive and easy to use right out of the box.
Build quality and design: Whether it’s a budget-friendly model or a prosumer espresso machine, one of the first things I inspect is the overall build quality and materials. I also pay close attention to the machine’s design and suitability for home kitchens.
Special features: Whenever an espresso machine comes loaded with programmable features such as adjustable temperature, programmable shot volumes or an automatic milk frother, I make sure to pay close attention to their effectiveness and added value (if any).
Cleaning and Maintenance: Seeing as I perform multiple-day testing, cleaning and maintenance come into play by default. I always make sure to assess the ease of cleaning as well as the effectiveness of any automated cleaning systems.
Price/performance ratio: I know your budget is a major consideration, so I always take the machine’s asking price into consideration. It’ll score extra points if I feel like it offers exceptional value based on its features and performance.
In terms of price, home espresso machines run the gamut from very cheap to wildly expensive. In other words, you could spend anywhere from $100 or less to multiple thousands of dollars.
There’s really no such thing as the best home espresso machine, seeing as different people have their own needs and expectations. With that said, models like the Breville Bambino Plus, Rancilio Silvia and Rocket Appartamento are very solid choices for any user.
Choosing the best espresso machine depends on your budget, skill level and needs. Once you have a clear idea of what you’re looking for, you should compare a few different models to find one that’ll work best for you.
We switched out the Solis Grind and Infuse Perfetta for the DeLonghi La Specialista Arte Evo as “Best Entry-Level Espresso Machine With Grinder.”
We switched out a couple of machines in our top 10 and added updated manufacturer details.
Hi! My name is Arne. Having spent years working as a barista I'm now on a mission to bring more good coffee to the people. To that end, my team and I provide you with a broad knowledge base on the subject of coffee.
Hi! My name is Arne. Having spent years working as a barista I'm now on a mission to bring more good coffee to the people. To that end, my team and I provide you with a broad knowledge base on the subject of coffee.
