Are you at that stage of life when you cannot afford skipping your morning coffee?
It does not really make enough sense to pay for an expensive espresso at coffee shops every day; even if you are a die-hard coffee lover.
As a matter of fact, espresso machines are quite an investment to make, though, in the long run, it could actually save your money.
So finally you have decided to buy an espresso machine and are swirling through a thousand options available online.
Let us help you in this as we have combed through exactly what you want to know before buying one.
So, without wasting time, let us get right into it:
As espresso machines are of different sizes and shapes, you must get confused with the options out there.
Here are our top picks of the top 10 home best espresso machines available in 2021 after our espresso machine reviews:
Top 10 Reviews of the Best Espresso Machines in 2021
Comparison Chart
Mr. Coffee ECMP1000 – espresso maker below $200
Whether you are an amateur or pro, this espresso machine suits every need, lifestyle.
The Mr. Coffee ECMP1000 is a super-automatic espresso machine under $200. The cleaning process is easier than others and you can easily get familiar with this coffee maker soon.
The built-in milk frother feature of this coffee maker is something you would love. With Mr. Coffee, making creamier and smoother coffee is easier.
This espresso machine comes has both single and double-shot alternatives to make different sizes of cappuccinos and lattes.
Its one-touch control panel sets this apart and makes everything simple. There are pictures with every button, making you less confused.
This not ends here – you will even get a tamper to measure the single and double-shot filters and scoop. You will also be provided with free coffee recipes to help you get started with coffee making.
Pros
- Adjustable cup trays
- Fully automatic milk frother with cream
- Extras are included
Cons
- Low pressurization capacity
- Not enough durable
Breville BES870XL Barista Express – One of the best espresso machines with a grinder
Breville BES870XL makes your morning cup of joe more refreshing than ever!
The very reason why this espresso machine has got the first place on the top 10 list is its incredible mechanism. You can make quality beverages at the comfort of your home with the Breville espresso machine.
Coming to its equipment details, there is everything that you expect in a quality espresso maker for brewing a decadent cup of coffee.
It would also serve as a suitable kitchen tool. The Breville Barista Express has an adjustable setting, which means you can experiment with grind sizes, temperatures, and whatnot. Apart from that, you can customize the filters and the tampers are also removable. The storage compartments are hidden, allowing your coffee bar to be cleaned.
One of the most exciting parts of this coffee maker is – it would help you save a fortune! Your morning coffee will bring more joy to your life as you will no longer have to break the bank for just a tasty cup of joe.
Pros
- A lot of features and functions
- Latest technology
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Needs regular cleaning
- Low volume coffee produced
DeLonghi ESAM3300 Magnifica – A dual-purpose coffee and espresso machine
It cannot get any better than the DeLonghi Magnifica for a coffee lover. This espresso machine comes with an easy-to-customize function to suit every need.
There is more than one thing you will love about this coffee maker. Not to mention, you will no longer have to bicker about your preferences with your spouse. With the DeLonghi Magnifica, your morning cup of joy is going to be more excited than ever. Now, everyone can get their preferred flavor by just one tap.
You can opt for your favorite one from options like regular, decaf and specialty. Followed by that, grind your fresh coffee beans into the second chamber. Alter the settings of roast and sizes of cups just by a push-button and a comprehensive menu with options.
The DeLonghi Magnifica coffee maker has been created to be accommodating, meaning that you have a handful of choices while making your favorite drink.
Being a potent coffee maker, it can use every feature from a fully automated frother to a fully-integrated burr grinder, which ensures what you drink is of the best quality ever!
The coffee espresso machine is capable to self-adjust the mode of espresso shots that you want as per the programmed setting.
The last thing to mention about this espresso maker is it is an utterly compact version that certainly makes your coffee drinking experience better!
Pros
- Totally automatic double boiler
- This machine is equipped in a way to customize its feature for multiple taste buds
- Easily usable control panel along with a memory menu
- Self-cleaning as well as descaling
- Lighter weight and smaller size (perfect for kitchen use)
Cons
- Not suitable to produce a huge volume of coffee
- Needs regular maintenance and cleaning
SAECO HD88557/47 Philips Exprellia EVO – Best-in-class automatic espresso machine
If you are the person who loves specialty drinks, Saeco Exprelia EVO would be the best option to grab in the very first place.
This espresso machine has been designed keeping frothy beverages in priority and you can make a range of drinks from milky macchiatos to velvety cappuccinos.
This comes with a fully automatic feature that would make your life even easier as you do not have to waste your valuable time doping out ways to control its function. A specialized technology has been used that makes it easier to prepare coffees with a layer of foamy cream.
Thanks to its H2 Technology Milk Carafe, you can steam, boil and even aerate the milk products to get finer bubbles every time you go for it. It has a dual chamber function that ensures you to get an optimal body and crema boost.
Its top-notch frother gives your coffee a frothy finish. This espresso machine is one of the best convenient products that automatically saves your favorite grind setting, gets descaled at your command and also automatically steams the chambers on power-up. There is barely anything that makes it this easy than Saeco Exprellia EVO.
Pros
- Perfect for preparing frothy and soft drinks
- Automatic dual boiler
- Descaling and self-cleaning functions are available
Cons
- Expensive
Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine – a uniquely designed semi-professional and automatic espresso maker
The Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine serves a range of both commercial and residential purposes and is worth your every penny.
The most noticeable feature of this espresso machine is the volume capacity. In this price range, Rancilio Silvia is beloved to be the largest coffee maker with 12oz in the boiler and 62oz in the water reservoir. You will be surprised by its production capacity as it can produce as much cups as you desire without any lagging.
This coffee machine well suits both the professional and personal setting in case you need it to produce more than one cup of coffee.
When it comes to its steaming capacity, there is nothing that matches its efficacy level. Its steaming knob allows you to gradually adjust the pressure and its articulating steam wand provides full motion. Having these tools in an espresso maker makes your job easier whenever you are up for drinking a magic cup of frothy coffee.
You might love its size and strength as this espresso machine is built iron frames. The side panels and the chrome-plated boiler of this espresso machine are of stainless steel, making it sturdy and compact.
It would not be an exaggeration to say, keeping its built quality in mind that this coffee maker could endure even a catastrophe, which is more expected of this machine. It would just not smash down like any other flimsy models available in the market. It would last a little longer.
Another exciting feature of this coffee maker is – it needs a little maintenance. Definitely, it requires cleaning, but that does not need any special techniques or tools. Plenty of filter baskets and a coffee scoop are there in this coffee maker that makes your coffee making experience even better in terms of convenience.
Pros
- Long lasting
- Meant to deal with high volume coffee making
- Supreme quality foam can be added due to the presence of steam accessories
Cons
- Single boiler
- Customized options are very limited
Keurig Rivo Cappucino & Latte System – quality capsule espresso machine
If you are the one with simple espresso needs, you can have your hands on this simplest espresso machine.
In case you are not interested in fancy drip trays or imported coffee bean, and just need a basic espresso machine, Keurig Rivo Cappucino gives you exactly what you want.
This machine comes with 15 bars of pressures along with 3 frothing modes – that means it can brew drinks super easily and quickly. Whether you want a cold froth glace or special-flavored Vienna, be sure you will get it right with this machine.
The easy-to-use feature of this coffee maker sets this apart from others and there are no signs of complicated whistles and bells. It comes with a simple set-up in which the cups and capsules are conveniently kept right in place.
You will find separate areas for milk frothing and coffee brewing in this machine, with an auto-on/off system, this ensures your safety. To get the brewing rolling, there is no need to see the instruction manual as the buttons are designed with its related pictures.
Nothing can beat the simplicity of Keurig Rivo System and you no longer have to look at your espresso maker trying to understand its features. As the name suggests, the term “Rivo” stands for “revolutionary” in Italian and what’s more revolutionary than simplicity in this modern era of technology.
Pros
- Compact and simple brewing station
- Multiple sizes – 1.4oz and 2.8oz
- It takes less than a minute to make a coffee
Cons
- Pods are a bit problematic at times
Nespresso Inissia – top-notch budget capsule espresso machine
With the Nespresso Inissia, you can save both your time and money at those local cafes.
The most noticeable part of Nespresso Inissia is its price. Despite being a fully-functional espresso machine, this coffee maker comes with a budget-friendly price. It provides you with the same quality as one of those costly espresso machines.
The size of this espresso maker is something that will impress you in the first place. Being a capsule espresso maker, its size is smaller than others and it is also light-weighted. And the most impressive thing is, you do not require a lot of space in your kitchen to place it. You can fit it into your kitchenettes, dorms and coffee bars. What’s more? Yes, you can carry it while you travel.
To top it off, this espresso maker, in terms of its convenience, adds real value to your money the long run. Although, you can get the ball rolling with this machine by getting started with 16 sets of “welcome” packs, still if you want to purchase capsules for your own, you can do that.
Pros
- Its small size enables you to keep it anywhere
- Fast brewing and heating times
- Thanks to its capsule technology, different types of coffee can be produced
Cons
- You can only use Nespresso capsules
Breville BES840XL – Best buy for beginners
Breville infuser is an incredible fusion of precision technology with the simplest functionalities.
As a beginner, it is quite a task to find out the right espresso machine in the world full of advertisers of espresso makers with various functions and features.
Then how do you figure out what works best for you? And what type of options should be taken into consideration?
Its advanced technology has extracting and state-of-the-art grinding systems. This espresso maker is quite impressive a due to the presence of thermocoils. Though there is a menu of controls and settings in the machine, as a newbie you do not need to utilize them – because its fully-automatic controls allow you to get your work done without putting your effort.
In between, you can carry on your morning work as the machine comes with an automated temperature regulating heater system and an automatic purge function. With its automated function, it becomes easy to make a refreshing cup of espresso no matter if you pay attention to it or not. It will be ready as soon as you blink your eyes. Isn’t it cool? Of course, it is!
This is the very reason why it is the best buy, especially for beginners. Moreover, this machine can be used as an automatic or customizable device.
Its internal mechanics allow you to sit back and relax as your coffee would be ready within minutes, without having you do all the hard work. If the time comes, when you are familiar with the machine and you find it comforting to mix your own espresso drink, by all means, take the plunge right then.
Pros
- Ideal for beginners
- Its fully automated control put off the pressure
- Includes cleaning tools
Cons
- A bit expensive
KRUPS XP100050 – best-in-class steam driven espresso machine
Now wake up in the morning with a large cup of coffee with KRUPS XP100050.
The KRUPS XP100050 is an ideal match for those having a little space in their house. It does not take a lot of space and make a mess.
With 4.4 pounds of weight and 12 x 9.8 x 14.1 inches size, this espresso machine is able to fit between your toaster and blender with ease.
You might be thinking about how it actually works. Let’s get you out of the doubt. This espresso machine is meant for all types of espresso beverages, you just need to load milk, water and coffee grounds into the respective compartments and in no big time, your steaming espresso is ready for you.
Its holding capacity is up to four cups, so you do not really have to be confused with the replacement filters in one of those cold mornings.
You would be amused by its customization options at once. Although there are no programmable menus or lights in this espresso maker, you will find a steam nozzle and an adjustable knob, which ensures your coffee to be properly blended with froth and flavor. Apparently, you might think it’s a simple machine, but the best part is – you can personalize it according to your choice.
In terms of simplicity, this machine is easy-to-clean. It’s dripping tray grid easily comes out and you can clean it if required.
Pros
- Four cups of glass carafes can be produced
- Its compact design enables you to fit it into small spaces
- Customizable knobs and nozzles are present
Cons
- Tight squeeze
- It does not have advanced technology
De’Longhi EC155 – best purchase under $100
Being a compact package, De’Longhi EC155 meets a range of espresso needs and is affordable as well.
Whether you are a fan of chocolate mint mocha or maybe you fancy raspberry latte with a lot of foam over it, be sure, with the De’Longhi EC155 espresso maker, you can make your preferred drink within minutes.
Its 15 bar brewing capacity gives you control over this machine to make coffee of your own choice. Its manual frother makes it easy for you to blend milk and steam perfectly.
Its 3-in-1 filter holder contains espresso pods, double and single shots, meeting all the espresso needs.
You will notice another great feature of this coffee maker is the size of its water tank, which is 35oz.
The simple cleaning and refilling feature is something that makes you put less effort as the machine is easy-to-remove. So, the next time you get to experiment with your coffee making, be sure that you no longer will find it difficult washing those stains.
The De’Longhi EC155 is all you need to get everything done right. Probably it is not the one and only option available in the market, but it is indeed a value for money product with a diverse range of options.
Pros
- Large volume coffee production
- Easy-to-customize and use
- Affordable
Cons
- Devoid of fine controls and settings
As discussed, you are in luck as there are various options available in the market to choose from on the basis of your caffeine needs from simple brewing feature to advanced technology. So, take a wise decision and take time to understand what suits you most.
An insider’s guide on picking the right espresso machine
It gets quite a bit tricky to make a wise purchase with a range of alternatives to choose from. So how would you know which works best for you? Here we have jotted down some useful points to consider while making a purchase.
Get familiar with the most basic types
First things first, take a look at the basic types of espresso maskers:
- Manual
- Super-automatic
- Semi-automatic
- Full-automatic
In manual units, there will be a lever which is needed to be operated physically while making espressos of your choice. On the other hand, automatic units have electric pumps and motorized functions for grinding and frothing as well.
Assess every feature and function carefully
There are espresso machines with various features; some have more broilers, some have advanced steaming technology. Some can get you four cups in one shot, whereas others make more than just four cups. There are no hard and fast rules to follow while making a purchase, yet it is necessary to know what you are after.
Do not overlook your favorite drink
A majority of espresso makers can make drinks such as lattes, cappuccinos. But maybe you are looking for something unique and your favorite drinks are not as simple as cappuccinos, let’s tell you there is always a match. If your favorite drink is that supremely-rich chocolate mochas with milky foam on top, espresso makers with advance milk frothing option are best for you.
Set a price range
Espresso machines come with different price ranges from cheap to expensive ones. Before you go ahead, make sure you know how much you can afford.
Take a note:
Some espresso machines need special tools for cleaning or sometimes they need replenishment supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions / FAQs related to Espresso machines
With lots of brands and features, it might seem a bit difficult to make a decision on what to buy. There are a plenty of things to consider while buying the right machine as per your need. Conducting a thorough research would be wise anyway.
To guide you in this, here we have listed some useful questions for you to take a look at:
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Should I invest my money in an expensive espresso machine or a cheaper one?
Quality materials are used to build expensive coffee makers, making the whole coffee making the process a bit easier. However, speaking of the quality of your coffee, you might not notice a major difference from drinks made using cheaper products.
Coming back to the taste of your drink, it depends on the coffee beans’ quality and brewing process, not on the machine. Boatloads of videos and online forums entail the same. Buying affordable espresso machines is quite a good idea unless you are looking for making money from it.
There is another aspect that needs your undivided attention, or otherwise, the quality of your drink is at risk. So, make sure you check out its capacity of controlling water temperature. Not to mention, the greater the control is, the better your drink would be. Lastly, check if there is any thermostat present.
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When buying an espresso maker, what do I need to consider?
First, check out if the device’s maximum pump pressure is self-priming. Also, do not forget to check on the sort of boiler that is installed in the coffee machine.
Know if the cleaning process of the machine is easy or not. The cleaning process should not be an intimidating task and most of the espresso machines’ cleaning process needs keen attention and special tools. So before making the purchase, check out with that.
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Is an espresso machine adequate to provide me a soothing cup of joe every morning?
Not necessarily. The quality of the bean grinder needs to be better. If your machine does not have a bean grinder, you need to buy one. A quality grinder is all you need to enjoy the magic of your coffee. The smoother the grinds are the better taste you will get.
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Is it possible to learn how to brew coffee with an espresso maker?
Here is a detailed brewing guide on how to brew coffee that you might check out where you will find various types of brewing processes.
So, are you ready to take the plunge? How much you can afford to buy an espresso maker? Do not hesitate to let us know your opinion in the comment section.
