I’m very particular when it comes to my coffee, so it should be no surprise that I’ve tried everything from a French press to a Keurig to cold brew and espresso machines. While some of them are fine, when I get to choose whatever kind of coffee I want, I’ll reach for an espresso drink or a cold brew.
I’m definitely guilty of spending more than my fair share at Starbucks on espresso drinks. And I probably still would be spending there, if my husband hadn’t gone and researched at-home espresso machines. (Not to say I don’t still treat myself once in a while, but since we can make espresso drinks at home I don’t go nearly as much as I used to!) Read on to find out which are the top at-home espresso machines.
There are SO many options for espresso machines at home. Which one is the best for you will depend on a few factors: How big of an espresso machine do you want? What features does it need to have? And what is your budget? I included notes on each of these questions below, including key features, dimensions, and where you can shop for the espresso machine.
Top Espresso Machines to Have At Home
Breville Bambino Plus
My top pick (and the one we have now) is the Breville Bambino. It’s compact, cute, and packs a punch. Plus, you can make cute latte art! (Still figuring that one out!)
- The “Plus” (vs. the Bambino) has a larger water reservoir
- Brews 1 or 2 shots at a time
- Produces even extraction for balanced coffee flavor
- Heats up quickly: Heating system takes just 3 seconds
- Designed to take up minimal counter space but with top performance
- Comes in a variety of colors, including stainless, red, white, black, and navy blue
- Includes frothing jug, filter baskets for one and two cup modes, trimming tool, cleaning tool, etc.
- Dimensions: 11.8″Wx7.7″Dx12.6″H
Best Espresso Machines Under $400
Viante Cafe Viante Enzo Single Serve Espresso Machine Coffee Maker
- Best budget buy
- Single serve coffee maker
- Brews coffee quickly and efficiently
- Easy to operate, refill, and clean
- This requires Viante and Nespresso Original Line capsules
- Note: You have to manually stop the machine after each brew
- Dimensions:
De’Longhi Dedica (EC680M)
- Compact, and De’Longhi’s slimmest countertop machine
- Large filter basket for quality drinks
- Brews 1 or 2 shots at a time
- No waiting in between: Can brew one cup after another easily
- Easy to use, with automatic stop feature and auto shut off
- Drip tray can be adjusted or removed to accommodate taller cups
- Dimensions: 13″ x 5.9″ x 12″
Nespresso Lattissima One Espresso Maker
- Easiest to use
- Single serve coffee maker
- Has a built in milk frother and auto shut off
- Easy to operate
- Consistent temperature across cups of coffee (including lattes)
- User can easily see remaining water level from front or side
- Requires Nesprosso pods
- Dimensions: 11″ x 7″ x 14″
Top Coffee Machines Over $400
Philips 1200 Series
- Most versatile of the bunch
- Can make coffee or espresso, or just hot water
- Intuitive touch display
- Double cup option and built-in frother
- Reusable filter
- Dimensions: 10″D x 15″W x 17″H
Breville Barista Touch
- Has a user-friendly color touchscreen that lets you easily swipe through options (includes espresso, Americano, latte, flat white, cappuccino, or add your own 8 personalized beverages)
- Brews 1 or 2 cups at a time
- Comes in 5 colors, including stainless, white, and navy blue
- Quickly brews a cup (in just 3 seconds)
- Easy to use: Has onscreen tutorials that guide you through each step
- Dimensions: 12.7″D x 15.5″W x 16″H
Gaggia Classic Pro
- 9 different espresso extractions
- Built-in steam wand/frother
- Has some commercial components, like the steam wand
- Made in Italy
- Made of stainless steel
- Dimensions: 8″D x 9.5″W x 14.2″H
More Info About Espresso Machines
How much should an espresso machine cost? You can expect to find a good espresso machine to be around $500. You could start with a ~$100 one and work your way up as your taste changes. A commercial espresso machine usually costs $1,000-$20,000 (a hugely wide range!).
P.S. If you have an espresso machine that doesn’t use pods, you probably also want to get a tamper and a knock box.
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