Best espresso machines for home baristas at every budget

It’s no surprise we love our coffee (in the morning for a pick-me-up and in the evening for a delicious decaf). One other thing we love: espressos that are made barista-style.

We don’t love espresso just because Sabrina Carpenter says so, either. At-home espresso brews can save you much time frolicking from coffeehouse to coffeehouse. Not to mention, some precious coin.

That’s why the Post Wanted team has been testing the best espresso machines for years and rounded up other best-in-class options to also consider. We highlighted our testing criteria below and you’ll find how we took our espresso-making rituals *very* seriously. After considering checkpoints like quality materials, ease of use, heat stability, grind consistency and dosing and more, we’re confident that the three we put to the test — and additional models we thoroughly researched — are your best bets.

RELATED: Best coffee mugs

No need to fear, either — these bad boys aren’t difficult to use. Much like your favorite coffee maker or coffee grinder, it may take a bit of time to perfect your brew just how you like it.

Whether you pick up a new espresso maker from Amazon or elsewhere, we’re certain you’ll adore your freshly whipped-up creations.

While you’re at it, check out the best coffee subscriptions we rounded up, along with some top-of-the-line French presses. If you’re on the fence, our Keurig versus Nespresso review may be able to help you out, too.

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Best Espresso Machines We Tested | Others We Recommend | Espresso Terms | FAQ Section | How We Tested

Best Espresso Machines We Tested

Best Overall: Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker with Milk Frother

The Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker with Milk Frother is an impressively terrific value for the money, given that it’s no more than $250 (not to mention, it’s commonly on sale) and brews barista-grade blends in no more than a minute.

“The Nespresso VertuoPlus is, by far, the best gift I received from my significant other,” Victoria Giardina, commerce journalist and content strategist, shared after using the machine for more than four years. “It’s reliable, compatible with a variety of delicious pods — both coffee and espresso — and is how I make the perfect latte: simply fill a glass three quarters of the way with ice, halfway with your milk of choice and brew a double shot of espresso, preferably. Topped with your favorite creamer, and you’re golden.”

It doesn’t take up too much space on Giardina’s kitchen counter, either, which is great for sharing the love with her Beautiful 2-Slice Toaster and Caraway Knife & Utensil Set. “While it’s somewhat noisy, it’s not the *loudest* appliance I’ve ever used, and the quality of the coffee is too incredible to let that negative steer me away from it,” she added.

Funny enough, Meaghan Roche, senior commerce SEO manager, also adores her VertuoPlus (and was influenced by Giardina to buy one for her home. “I’ve had my Nespresso Vertuo Plus for nearly a year now after being influenced by my coworker, and I’ve never had a bad coffee or espresso,” she shared. “The machine is almost stupid simple: you add the pod of your choice and with one click of a button, you have a beautiful and delicious drink brewed in under 30 seconds. Don’t be fooled by this simplicity though; the beverage creations are truly limitless, from a frothy latte to a brewed-over-ice iced coffee.”

Nespresso pods are rich and indulgent, with dozens of flavor offerings, sizes and seasonal additions, too. “One of the most important aspects of this machine for me is its slim and compact design, which is a huge benefit for my small NYC apartment kitchen counter,” Roche noted. “My Nespresso has saved me from ever having to go to a coffee shop again.” In short, buy this machine.

Dimensions: 5.6″ D x 16.7″ W x 12.8″ H | Weight: 15 pounds | Capacity: 5 pounds | Accessories: Milk frother | Warranty: 1-year manufacturer warranty

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Best Automatic: KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine KF8 with Milk Attachment

Though costing a pretty penny, the KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine KF8 with Milk Attachment does so much and looks great doing it!

“This first fully automatic espresso machine from KitchenAid, and while there are a few kinks, the range of drinks it makes, the levels of customization and the impact for the small footprint is amazing,” Sophie Cannon, commerce strategy and development manager, shared after reviewing it. “The machine has a fully automatic touchscreen in which you can select your drink and then customize the levels of coffee, milk, temperature and more.”

You can also add your milk (dairy or non-dairy) via the included carafe and hose. “The hose is a bit flimsy, so be sure to remove and store flat when not in use,” Cannon pointed out. “It also holds an impressive amount of beans in the hopper, which can be removed and swapped for other brews should you want to switch it up from morning to morning.”

Dimensions: 18.5″ D x 10.2″ W x 14.3″ H | Weight: 28 pounds | Capacity: 4.6 pounds | Accessories: Integrated coffee grinder | Warranty: 2-year manufacturer warranty

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Best with Grinder: Ninja Luxe Café Premier Series Espresso Machine Drip Coffee Maker

“The Ninja Luxe Espresso Machine is hands down my favorite appliance in my kitchen,” Ryan Murphy, commerce partnerships manager, said. “Ninja really did their homework and came out with not only a fantastic espresso brewer, but overall a great coffee machine.”

This machine, in particular, can brew espresso, (two sizes), a cup of coffee at 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, or 18 ounces, cold-pressed espresso which is perfect for espresso martinis, an over-ice coffee setting and cold brew! It truly can do it all.

“It grinds beans precisely to the setting of coffee you are setting, and also has a frother for dairy and plant-based options,” Murphy highlighted. “The frother can also whip you a cold foam for, I don’t know, a….pumpkin cold foam cold brew this fall!”

Dimensions: 13″ D x 13.4″ W x 14.6″ H | Weight: 25.7 pounds | Capacity: 4.4 pounds | Accessories: Milk frother, Integrated grinder, Assisted tamper | Warranty: 1-year manufacturer warranty

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Others We Recommend

Best Budget: De’Longhi 15-Bar Pump Espresso Machine with Manual Milk Frother

If you’re a coffee enthusiast on a budget, the De’Longhi 15-Bar Pump Espresso Machine offers exceptional value without sacrificing quality. With its powerful 15-bar pump pressure, this compact machine delivers café-quality espresso shots that are rich, aromatic, and perfectly extracted — just how you’d expect from more expensive models.

The heart of any great espresso machine is consistent pressure, and this De’Longhi model excels with its 15-bar pump. It ensures optimal extraction every time, resulting in a smooth, flavorful espresso with a thick, golden crema.

You can also create delicious lattes, cappuccinos and macchiatos with the easy-to-use manual milk frother. Whether you’re an espresso novice or a seasoned home barista, the frother allows you to steam milk to the perfect texture for velvety, café-style drinks.

Additionally, it’s designed to fit comfortably on any countertop, with a sleek and modern look that complements any kitchen all the while. Its slim profile makes it ideal for smaller spaces without compromising on performance.

Its user-friendly design is also worth mentioning. With simple controls and an easy-to-read water level indicator, this espresso machine makes it easy to brew your favorite espresso drinks with minimal effort. Whether you prefer single or double shots, this machine gives you the flexibility to brew just the way you like it.

Dimensions: 9.6″ D x 7.2″ W x 11.9″ H | Weight: 10.6 pounds | Capacity: 2.3 pounds | Accessories: Milk frother | Warranty: 2-year manufacturer warranty

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Best Splurge: Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

Elevate your coffee experience with the Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine. Though it’s not too far from the $1,000 price tag, it’s the perfect blend of convenience, performance and innovative features for those who demand the best from their coffee at home.

Whether you’re craving a rich espresso shot, a creamy cappuccino, or a velvety latte, the Philips 3200 Series ensures you can enjoy café-quality drinks at the touch of a button — every single time. The Philips 3200 takes the guesswork out of brewing. With its intuitive touch interface, you can easily select from a variety of drinks — including espresso, coffee, cappuccino, latte macchiato and more — with just a few taps.

The machine automatically grinds, tamps, brews and froths your coffee as well, giving you a fresh, expertly prepared cup with no hassle. Notably, it’s clad with premium ceramic grinders that ensure that each cup is made with perfectly ground beans; this helps preserve their natural flavors and oils for a more aromatic and flavorful espresso, regardless if you prefer fine or coarse grounds.

Thanks to the LatteGo milk system, frothing milk for your favorite lattes and cappuccinos has never been simpler. The innovative design of the LatteGo system delivers silky-smooth milk froth in seconds, while the system is incredibly easy to clean — no tubes or mess to deal with. As a whole, it’s the best machine worth the investment.

Dimensions: 10″ D x 15″ W x 17″ H | Weight: 17.6 pounds | Capacity: 3.8 pounds | Accessories: Milk frother | Warranty: 2-year manufacturer warranty

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Best Manual: SMEG 50s Retro Style Manual Espresso Machine

For those who appreciate the artistry of handcrafting the perfect espresso, the SMEG 50s Retro Style Manual Espresso Machine offers a stylish and high-performing option that combines timeless design with exceptional functionality.

Inspired by 1950s Italian aesthetics, this manual espresso machine brings a touch of vintage charm to any kitchen while providing the tools you need to brew café-quality espresso, exactly the way you like it. Much like the De’Longhi 15-Bar Pump Espresso Machine with Manual Milk Frother, this model’s 15-bar pump pressure ensures that every shot of espresso is extracted at the ideal pressure, giving you a rich, flavorful brew with a creamy layer of golden crema.

Perfect for lattes, cappuccinos or flat whites, the SMEG 50s Retro Espresso Machine is equipped with a professional steam wand. With the ability to easily froth milk to the perfect micro-foam consistency, this machine enables you to create café-style milk-based drinks with ease.

What’s more, the SMEG model includes simple, intuitive controls, including an on/off switch, temperature indicator and a water tank that’s easy to refill. It also features a cup warmer on top, keeping your espresso cups warm and ready for that perfect brew.

Dimensions: 13″ D x 6″ W x 13″ H | Weight: 10.4 pounds | Capacity: 2 pounds | Accessories: Milk frother | Warranty: 1-year manufacturer warranty

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Best for Beginners: Breville Brushed Stainless Steel Espresso Machine

If you’re just starting your journey into the world of espresso, the Breville Brushed Stainless Steel Espresso Machine offers an ideal blend of simplicity, performance and ease of use. Designed with beginners in mind, this machine features intuitive controls, user-friendly features and high-quality components that allow you to craft espresso drinks like a pro —without the steep learning curve.

The Breville Espresso Machine is designed with beginners in mind, featuring an intuitive, easy-to-navigate interface. The control panel includes simple buttons for turning the machine on/off, adjusting the steam and brew functions and selecting between single or double shots, making it easy to customize your brew with minimal effort.

Achieving the perfect espresso shot starts with stable temperature control, and this machine delivers just that. With its built-in PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control system, the Breville espresso machine ensures consistent, optimal brewing temperatures for better extraction and more flavorful shots. This feature gives you consistent results with every brew, which earns extra brownie points in Breville’s favor.

As far as aesthetics, the machine’s brushed stainless steel body not only looks sleek and professional but also ensures durability and easy cleaning. The materials used in its construction are built to last, making this a long-term investment for those who want a reliable espresso machine that can withstand daily use.

Dimensions: 13.8″ D x 12.5″ W x 15.9″ H | Weight: 22.1 pounds | Capacity: 4 pounds | Accessories: Integrated precision conical burr grinder, Milk frother | Warranty: 2-year manufacturer warranty

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Best for Double Shots: Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Machine

For those who love a strong double shot of espresso, the Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Machine delivers consistent, high-quality results with minimal effort. Its precision brewing technology ensures your double shots are extracted perfectly, with rich crema and deep flavor every time, while the one-touch operation simplifies the entire process.

This machine is ideal for coffee drinkers who want a fast, convenient, and customizable espresso experience, especially when it comes to double shots. With its versatile capsule system, sleek design, and easy-to-use features, the Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ is the perfect solution for anyone who enjoys a powerful cup of espresso, without the complexity of traditional espresso machines.

The Vertuo Pop+ heats up in just 30 seconds, so you don’t have to wait long for your morning cup of coffee. Whether you’re making a quick espresso or brewing a larger serving, this machine provides quick and efficient results, saving you time when you’re in a rush. With its generous water tank, you can brew several cups of coffee before needing to refill, making it perfect for busy mornings or for serving guests.

Dimensions: 14″ D x 8.6″ W x 10.4″ H | Weight: 10.3 pounds | Capacity: 2.3 pounds | Warranty: 2-year manufacturer warranty

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Espresso Terms

Below, the Post Wanted team simplified espresso terms — the quintessential cheat sheet to the espresso novice.

Espresso Machine Parts & Functions

Portafilter: This refers to the metal handle with a basket that holds the ground coffee during brewing. It’s where the espresso shot is extracted from.

Group Head: This is the part of the espresso machine where the portafilter locks in and water flows through the coffee grounds to extract the espresso.

Brew Head : Also known as the group head, this is where hot water is dispensed over the coffee grounds. Some machines have multiple group heads for brewing multiple shots simultaneously.

Steam Wand: This is the metal wand used to froth milk by injecting steam. It’s essential for creating drinks like cappuccinos and lattes.

Pressure Gauge: This is a gauge that shows the pressure at which water is being forced through the coffee grounds. The ideal espresso is brewed at nine bars of pressure.

Drip Tray: This is the part of the espresso machine that collects spilled water or coffee, keeping your counter clean.

Boiler: This is the part of the machine that heats the water. Some machines have a single boiler, while others (like heat exchangers or dual boilers) allow separate boilers for brewing and steaming.

Espresso Brewing Process

Extraction: This refers to the process of brewing espresso by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee. Proper extraction is key to making good espresso.

Tamping: This is the act of pressing down the coffee grounds in the portafilter with a tamper to create an even and compact puck. This ensures uniform water flow during extraction.

Pre-infusion: This is the brief stage at the beginning of the extraction process where a small amount of water is released to moisten the coffee grounds before full pressure is applied. It helps ensure even extraction.

Shot: This is the single extraction of espresso from the portafilter. A “single shot” uses around 9 grams of coffee, and a “double shot” uses around 18 grams.

Double Shot (Doppio): This is the standard shot of espresso served in most coffee shops. It uses twice the amount of coffee grounds (about 18 grams) and yields approximately 2 ounces of espresso.

Crema: This is the golden, foamy layer that forms on top of a freshly pulled espresso shot. Crema is a sign of a well-pulled shot and good quality beans as well.

Espresso Drinks & Styles

Espresso: This is a small, concentrated coffee made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee under high pressure. A standard shot is around 1 ounce (30mL).

Americano: This is an espresso shot diluted with hot water, resulting in a drink similar to regular drip coffee but with the deep flavor of espresso.

Cappuccino: This is an espresso-based drink made with a shot of espresso, steamed milk and a thick layer of milk foam on top (traditionally a 1:1:1 ratio).

Latte: This is a drink made with espresso and steamed milk, typically with a thin layer of milk foam on top. It has a creamier, less intense flavor than a cappuccino and is commonly made from pouring a shot of espresso (or double espresso) over milk and ice.

Macchiato: Meaning “marked” in Italian, this is an espresso shot “marked” with a small amount of steamed milk or milk foam. A latte macchiato has more milk than a traditional macchiato, where the milk is steamed and poured into the cup before the espresso.

Flat White: This drink is similar to a latte but with a higher ratio of coffee to milk and a velvety, smooth texture from the milk’s micro-foam.

Ristretto: This is a “short” shot of espresso, brewed with less water, resulting in a more concentrated flavor. A ristretto typically uses the same amount of coffee grounds as a regular shot but less water (about half the volume).

Long Shot (Lungo): This is a shot of espresso made with more water than usual, yielding a larger, milder shot. It’s essentially an “over-extracted” shot compared to a standard espresso.

Affogato: This is a dessert-style coffee drink made by pouring a hot espresso shot over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or gelato. It’s one of our favorites!

Other Espresso Terms

Grind Size: This refers to the coarseness or fineness of the coffee grounds. For espresso, the grind should be very fine, almost like powdered sugar, to ensure proper extraction.

Dose: This refers to the amount of ground coffee used in the portafilter. A typical single shot uses about 9 grams of coffee, and a double shot uses about 18 grams.

Tamper: This is a tool used to press down the coffee grounds in the portafilter evenly and with the right amount of pressure (around 30 pounds of force) before brewing.

Bar (Pressure): This is the unit of pressure used in espresso brewing. Most espresso machines operate at 9 bars of pressure, which is considered optimal for extraction.

Espresso Blend: This is a blend of coffee beans specifically designed for espresso brewing, usually with a balance of beans that result in good crema, flavor and consistency under high pressure.

Extraction Time: This refers to the amount of time it takes for the water to pass through the coffee grounds. The ideal extraction time for a shot of espresso is typically between 25 to 30 seconds.

An FAQ on Espresso Machines

Do more expensive espresso machines make better espresso?

While not a hard and fast rule, more expensive espresso machines tend to craft a better espresso drink. However, the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee and Espresso Maker with Milk Frother, our best overall model we reviewed, is no more than $250.

Expensive espresso machines, particularly professional-grade machines, tend to have better temperature stability, pressure control and more accurate extraction. These features allow for a more consistent and precise brewing process, which is essential for making high-quality espresso.

And, while affordable machines may come with built-in grinders, but they often aren’t as precise or adjustable as a high-end grinder, which can affect grind consistency, resulting in poor extraction.

The best espresso machine for you depends on your preferences, so check out the superlatives we provided to each model for a more accurate depiction of which one is your best bet.

What coffee machine does Starbucks use?

Starbucks primarily uses La Marzocco espresso machines in its stores, which are known for their high performance, durability, and precision. Specifically, many Starbucks locations use the La Marzocco Strada and the La Marzocco Linea PB models.

These machines are favored for their consistency and ability to produce high-quality espresso shots, which is crucial for a coffee chain that serves thousands of customers daily.

How We Tested

Ahead, find the Post Wanted testing criteria for each espresso machine we reviewed in the past four years.

Build Quality and Materials

• Frame and Components: We checked each machine to see if it has a sturdy, durable frame. Machines made of stainless steel or high-quality materials tend to last longer and provide better stability.
• Group Head: A solid, well-machined group head is essential for consistent water temperature and pressure.
• Water Tank: We looked for a machine with a large, easily accessible water reservoir that’s simple to use each day.

Heat Stability and Temperature Control

• Steady Temperature: As you can imagine, espresso brewing requires precise temperature control. A temperature swing of more than a few degrees can affect the extraction.
• Warm-Up Time: A good espresso machine should be able to heat up within 15-20 minutes, depending on its size and type.

Grind Consistency and Dosing

• Grinder Compatibility: The espresso machine should pair well with your grinder, if it’s not already built into the machine. A high-quality grinder is as essential as the machine itself for achieving proper grind size and consistency.
• Dosing Control: We considered the machine’s ability to manage the dose. Some machines have programmable dosers, while others require manual input. The dose should be accurate for proper puck preparation.

Espresso Extraction

• Consistency of Extraction: We evaluated the consistency of shots over time. A good machine should provide evenly extracted espresso with rich crema.
• Crema: High-quality espresso machines should produce a thick, golden crema that holds its form for a few minutes. We took note of this for the different types of machines we tested.

Steam Power and Frothing Performance

• Steam Wand Performance: We tested the machine’s steam wand for power and control. A good steam wand should create micro-foam easily for lattes and cappuccinos. It should provide consistent steam pressure and be easy to maneuver.
• Frothing Speed: The time it takes to steam milk is important. A powerful machine can froth milk in around 30-45 seconds, while lower-powered machines might take longer.

User Interface and Controls

• Ease of Use: One of the most important characteristics is the model being ergonomic. We looked for intuitive buttons, switches and/or a touchscreen interface.
• Programmability: For more advanced machines, we tested the programmability of shot volumes, temperature settings and pre-infusion times. These features can make a big difference in consistency.
• Flow Control: Some machines offer flow control options to adjust the rate at which water flows through the coffee puck. This can help fine-tune the extraction process.

Cleaning and Maintenance

• Ease of Cleaning: The machine should be easy to clean, with removable parts like drip trays, portafilters, and the steam wand. We considered how simple it was to maintain on a regular basis.
• Self-Cleaning Features: Some machines come with automated cleaning cycles or reminders to backflush or replace water filters.
• Descaling: Regular descaling is important to maintain machine performance. We checked if the machine includes a descaling reminder or easy access to key components for maintenance.

Noise Level

• Operational Noise: While a downside for some, a good espresso machine may be somewhat noisy. We compared any noise to the end result.

Aesthetic Appeal

• Design and Size: While subjective, you should also consider how the machine looks and fits in your kitchen or coffee space. Whether it’s sleek and modern or retro, aesthetic appeal can make your coffee experience more enjoyable.

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