The best espresso machines offer futuristic levels of service, allowing you to whip up café-quality lattes and cappuccinos right at home. But before you set out on your shopping expedition, it’s important to figure out your specific needs. After all, there’s a wide range of espresso machines on the market. Some require minimal user interaction, making your morning coffee experience a total breeze; others ask that you get somewhat more involved in the process, much like our favorite coffee makers. Our top pick overall is the Breville Bambino Plus for its ease of use, mid-range price tag, and superior results, but there are several other excellent options ahead.
The best espresso machines allow you to whip up barista-level shots and café-quality lattes right … [+] from the comfort of your home.
As tempting as it may be to get a professional-grade machine, the sheer size and cost of those units makes home use all but impossible. Luckily, many consumer-facing brands know that and have created models that fit perfectly in the modern home kitchen, with just one downside: You need to learn how to use them before you can really take advantage of all they have to offer. But with the help of user-friendly technology and a little bit of practice, you’ll be pulling perfect shots of espresso in no time. (You can also add to the fun with a coffee subscription—we’ve got tons of great recommendations in that arena, too.) Ahead, find the best espresso machines for making quality coffee at home, from fancy machines with all the bells and whistles to one-touch models that rely on pods.
- Best Espresso Machine Overall: Breville Bambino Plus
- Best Budget Espresso Machine: De’Longhi Manual Espresso Machine
- Best Professional-Quality Espresso Machine: La Marzocco Linea Mini Espresso Machine
- Best Small Espresso Machine: De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe Espresso Maker
- Best Espresso Machine With Grinder: Calphalon Temp IQ Espresso Machine
- Best Latte Machine: Jura S8 Fully Automatic Espresso & Coffee Machine
- Best Fully-Automated Espresso Machine: Breville Barista Touch
- Best Nespresso Machine: Nespresso Vertuo Chrome by Breville
- Best Stovetop Espresso Maker: Bialetti Moka Stovetop Espresso Maker
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Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
Dimensions: 7.75 x 12.5 x 12.25 inches | Pressure: 9 bar | Warmup time: 3 seconds
Whether you’re an espresso-pulling pro or you’re a bit lackluster in the “barista skills” department, Breville’s got you covered: Their Bambino Plus model can help you get the job done with that much more ease. Equipped with 9-bar extraction pressure (the same as commercial machines in coffee shops), this espresso machine is simple, straightforward and offers reliably robust results, even for newbies. When you start the machine, it pre-infuses ground espresso with low water pressure to soak and expand the grinds before kicking into high gear. This translates to more even extraction, balanced flavor and a picture-perfect layer of crema.
As your skills and confidence improve, the machine grows with you. The adjustable steam wand offers an automatic microfoam setting for beginners and a manual setting for those ready to go to the next level. The setup includes two filter baskets, a tamper, a frothing jug, a trimming tool and cleaning supplies.
Pros:
- Commercial-grade pressure
- Soaks grinds before brewing
- Adjustable steam wand
Cons:
- No temperature adjustment
- There is a learning curve
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De’Longhi Manual Espresso Machine
Dimensions: 9.62 x 7.25 x 11.87 inches | Pressure: 15 bar | Heating time: N/A
When it comes to espresso machines, you generally get what you pay for. But there are a few lower priced models that still pull worthy shots. De’Longhi’s manual machine is one of them. It comes equipped with 15-par pressure and features two thermostats—one for water and for one steam pressure—so whether you’re making a double espresso shot or an extra foamy cappuccino, everything will stay at the right temperature. The three-in-one portafilter includes a holder for one or two espresso shots, and another for pre-portioned espresso pods.
The fixed manual milk frother steams milk well too, so you can make lattes and cappuccinos without the need for a separate device.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Three-in-one portafilter
- Built-in milk steamer
Cons:
- Small water reservoir
- No automatic shut-off
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Seattle Coffee Gear
La Marzocco Linea Mini Espresso Machine
Dimensions: 14 x 21 x 15 inches | Pressure: 9 bar | Warmup time: 15 minutes
Those able to splurge on their espresso machine will be rewarded with perks like sleek design, temperature adjustment capabilities and a powerful frother with a commercial-grade steam valve that produces the ideal steamed milk for latte art. Even with a 3.5-liter water reservoir—enough to last through many brew cycles—the Linea Mini has a smaller footprint than other commercial machines, but it brings that same level of professional quality to your home kitchen.
Pros:
- Commercial-grade steamer
- Double boiler temperature control
- Large water reservoir
Cons:
- Pricey
- Reservoir is hard to clean
Best Small Espresso Machine
A Narrow Machine That Packs A Lot Into A Small Package
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De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe Espresso Maker
Dimensions: 5.9 x 13 x 12 inches | Pressure: 15 bar | Warmup time: 40 seconds
Most home espresso machines require some serious countertop space (a sacrifice that’s well worth it if you ask me). But if you don’t have any extra kitchen real estate to spare, or you just can’t bear the thought of a fairly large appliance on your counter, the De’Longhi Dedica Deluxe Espresso Maker is the answer to your cappuccino prayers. It packs a single boiler, adjustable manual milk frother and double drip tray into a 6-inch wide body. And even though it’s narrow, it doesn’t skimp on features.
It has a Thermoblock Heating System that brings water up to temperature in less than 40 seconds and advanced technology that helps maintain water temperature in between brews so you don’t have to wait if you’re making more than one drink. It also has a cup warmer, automatic flow stop function and removable 35-ounce water tank.
Pros:
- Petite
- Relatively inexpensive
- Heats up in 40 seconds and stays hot
Cons:
- Tamper isn’t the best
- Can be noisy
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Calphalon Temp IQ Espresso Machine
Dimensions: 14.5 x 12.5 x 15.75 inches | Pressure: 15 bar | Warmup time: N/A
Calphalon may be best known for its nonstick cookware, but the premium cookware brand knows how to make a serious espresso machine, too. The Temp IQ combines an espresso machine, grinder and steam wand into one sleek-looking countertop appliance. It has an integrated conical burr mill grinder that has 30 adjustable grind settings, plus advanced heating technology and temperature control that ensures a perfectly extracted br