Top 12 Home Espresso Machine Reviews

This almost fully-automatic espresso machine from Gaggia Brera does most of the work for you, allowing you to enter your preferred settings and stand back as it produces your drink. Its simple light-up display makes it easy to select the type and strength.

Assuming that the bean hopper isn’t empty, it will dispense the correct amount of coffee beans, grind them, and begin the pre-brew process by soaking the grounds.

The grinder isn’t just any grinder – it is of the ceramic burr type, which means that it grinds beans into a much finer powder than any blade grinder and won’t burn the grounds like some stainless steel grinders.

If you’re out of fresh beans, you can also choose to place pre-ground coffee in the designated bypass chamber; the system will use those grounds instead. This allows greater flexibility than many other machines on this list which only allow you to use one or the other (fresh beans or pre-ground coffee).

The pre-soaking function does mean that it takes a little longer to brew your espresso (though hardly so much that you’ll notice). To offset the time spent on this extra step, “Rapid Steam Technology” ensures that the rest of the brewing process goes quite quickly.

The only other machine on this list with a pre-soaking function, by the way, is the DeLonghi ECAM22110SB Compact.

An Element of Control

Although almost everything the Gaggia Brera does is automatic, it does allow user control over one important aspect – steaming milk. Some fully automatic espresso machines allow you only a few options, meaning that it chooses the amount of froth and its silkiness for you. While this is much easier for beginners, it doesn’t quite offer the experience that many latte- and cappuccino lovers demand. An external steam wand allows you to create your own perfect froth by hand with each coffee drink.

Worth Noting

This espresso machine has many other notable features and functions, including a drip tray for easy cleanup, selectable shot strength, the ability to choose the fineness of your grounds, light-up buttons, and an easy-to-read menu display. The steam wand can be removed, allowing you to use it as a hot water dispenser instead. The machine will alert you when it is time to clean it, and a self-clean cycle does a lot of that work for you.

Espresso connoisseurs are sometimes seen as being “coffee snobs”, but the truth is that we simply know what we want and aren’t completely satisfied by inferior brews. This espresso machine from Breville is designed to give any espresso lover just the experience he or she is looking for, and then some.

An Espresso Connoisseur’s Dream

One of the things connoisseurs care about is the freshness of their coffee grounds. If they aren’t ground immediately before brewing; the shot will never live up to its full potential. With this machine, you’ll pop some beans into the extra-large bean hopper at the top to begin the crafting process. The size of this bean hopper allows you to create several shots without having to refill it.

Select your dose from the menu panel so that the espresso machine portions out just the right amount of beans for a drink of your desired size and strength. The internal grinder will grind them into a very fine powder and disperse this into the portafilter.

Use the hand tamper to press the grounds down into a solid coffee puck before placing the portafilter into the group head. Correctly tamping your coffee is an important – probably essential – step in brewing good espresso, as the water won’t properly suffuse the grounds if you neglect it.

Once your portafilter has been secured in the group head, you can select the settings for your shot. Choose your water temperature and shot size (usually based on the amount of grounds you’ve used in your portafilter), then start the brewing process. The machine will pull water from the extra-large 72-ounce water reservoir and create your drink.

All the Extras

Extra settings and options are often what lifts an espresso machine above the ordinary and make it a serious option for the connoisseur.

The ability to adjust the water temperature (plus or minus 4 degrees Fahrenheit, in 2˚ steps) allows you to tailor this aspect to your own preferences or for the type of coffee drink you are creating.

The pressure display lets you see that your machine is running just as it’s supposed to and also allows you to keep tabs on the process.

The milk frother lets you create the perfect foam for your beverage. Conveniently, the angle on the actual wand allows you to slide it into a milk carafe and set the carafe atop the drip tray.

If you want to make your friends jealous with your new espresso machine, this option from Jura may be the way to go. Though it may not be what we consider to be the most impressive option on our list, it is still among the very best home espresso machines on the market. Truth be told, it also a little less expensive than our overall best pick.

Looks Follow Function

The very appearance of this machine makes a statement, but its dominant style and masculine design is only one part of its charm. This Jura is capable of simultaneously brewing two shots of espresso by dividing a double shot between two spouts and into two separate cups. If you only want one drink or a double shot, simply center your cup below both spouts.

Its tall size means that it may not fit in every kitchen space, but you can place taller cups beneath its variable-height spouts. Smaller home espresso machines such as the DeLonghi DEDICA and the DeLonghi EC155 will slide below upper cabinets much more easily, but will not accommodate cups larger than 3 to 3.5 inches in height. This espresso machine can fill a cup or glass as tall as approximately 4.5 inches beneath its adjustable spouts. This would make it perfect for drinks that contain steamed and foamed milk, but sadly this steamer has trouble reaching the temperatures a professional barista would prefer.

The height of the Jura Impressa can also be attributed to its internal burr grinder. A burr grinder is considered much better than a blade grinder because it creates a much finer powder. Also adding to the overall size of the unit is its bean hopper. The bean hopper holds coffee beans so that the grinder can take beans from it as necessary instead of you having to measure this yourself every time – perhaps even using a scale.

Compared to its competitors, this espresso machine features a fairly large bean hopper, capable of holding 16 servings’ worth. This unit also has a large 64-ounce water tank. Though this water tank isn’t as large as the 72-ounce tank on the Gaggia Classic, it is certainly large enough that you won’t need to refill it too often.

If you are looking for a compact, easy-to-use espresso machine with flair, this one is for you.

You can tell from its appearance that DeLonghi understands coffee drinkers – they know that an espresso machine isn’t just about function, it is also about style. A true coffee culture aficionado believes that espresso makers are supposed to be works of art, and the DeLonghi Dedica distinguishes itself in this area.

To add a bit of a modern flair, the company has also made this one available in three different colors – red, black, and full stainless steel.

Slim and Simple

On a more practical note, you can clearly see its compact size. Many other machines are wide to accommodate the steam wand in a convenient location. Although doing so allows you to set your carafe directly on the drip tray, or to at least hang the wand over it in case it drips, this takes up considerably more space.

Instead of creating a shallow, long unit, DeLonghi chose to create a deep but slender unit, thereby fitting all the essentials into a tiny amount of space. You should easily be able to accommodate this machine on your countertop, even if it means you have to slide it between your refrigerator and your toaster.

No Sacrifices Necessary

The simplicity of this semi-automatic espresso machine would make many people think that compromises were made in its design, but despite its slim size, you do not need to sacrifice functionality for the convenience of this espresso maker.

It includes a warming area on top of its boiler where you can warm one cup at a time. This single boiler is powerful enough for you to steam milk (to create a delicious cappuccino, for example) without having to wait for the water temperature to adjust. Though its steam wand will not sit over the top of the drip tray, it is still attached and fully functional.

Unsurprisingly, it does not incorporate a grinder. You can, however, use either pods or grounds: pods offer a wider range of flavors in a convenient format, but also cost a lot more in the long run.

You might guess at a glance that a machine of this size would have several impressive features and functions, and you wouldn’t be wrong. The Rancilio Silvia incorporates most of the capabilities you find in a high-end espresso machine, but at a fraction of the price. This can likely be credited to its lack of an internal grinder, which may or may not be a dealbreaker for you. Some people actually prefer pre-ground coffee and would just be throwing away money on a feature they won’t use.

Packs a Punch

Despite the lack of a grinder, the Rancilio Silvia does have some other nifty features. A steamer wand allows you to create your preferred type of foam every time – it’s up to you whether it comes out thin and bubbly or thick and frothy. The portafilter allows you to pack your own grounds and comes with two different sizes of brew baskets for different shot sizes.

Brew two shots simultaneously by setting two cups side by side beneath the split nozzles, or make one by placing it in the center. Warm your cups ahead of time by setting them on the large shelf above the boiler. This boiler draws water from the large tank at the back of the unit. When the water needs to be refilled, simply lift the removable tank away from the machine, fill it, and pop it back on.

Since beans are often much more expensive than pre-ground coffee (why, though?), a cost-conscious coffee addict might actually prefer the Rancilio over our higher-end models. Though the Rancilio definitely doesn’t scream “I’m on a budget”, many people will be happier investing their money in a quality espresso machine than buying fresh coffee beans. If you are looking for convenience in addition to savings, you may want to consider also purchasing the add-on unit which allows you to use coffee pods or capsules.

If you are looking for an espresso machine that’s easy to use without costing the earth, this is definitely one you should consider. It is priced around average compared to the other options we’ve selected, and since it’s a fully automatic machine, you only need to push a button for your morning shot of espresso.

The DeLonghi Magnifica features an internal grinder designed to create powdery coffee grounds freshly for each shot you pull. In order to feed the grinder, an integrated bean hopper is attached, which is capable of holding 8.8 ounces. You may also put pre-ground coffee in a separate container, which is great if you like decaf sometimes.

Simple push-buttons and dials allow you to adjust your settings without having to consult the manual each time. A steam wand makes it easy (with a little practice) to froth milk to the perfect consistency for every beverage. An automatic cleaning program will assist you with some of the less enjoyable parts of owning an espresso maker.

Unlike most espresso machines, this model uses dual thermoblock boilers. This means you can steam and brew simultaneously and continuously, saving time when preparing refreshments for several people, and also makes it capable of reaching operating temperature in just over a minute.

In short, though this espresso machine does not have functions such as temperature control or pre-soaking, most people will be happy with what it offers at this reasonable price.

While it’s hard to pick a personal favorite among the 12 best espresso machines listed on this page, this one is certainly in the running. The Saeco Intelia Deluxe combines the better qualities and features of almost every other machine on this list into one hard-working unit.

The Absolute Best Espresso Machine?

To begin with, it creates fresh grounds for every cup using its internal ceramic burr grinder. Made of ceramic, this grinder will not risk burning your coffee grounds like the more commonly found stainless steel grinders. Being a burr grinder, as opposed to a blade type, it also produces fine grounds free of chunks.

After it has ground your coffee into powder, it draws water from its extra-large 50-ounce water tank. The water is heated and pressurized, sent through the grounds and your cup will begin to fill with a rich espresso shot, and all of this happens without you needing to lift a finger.

You may notice that the Saeco does not include a portafilter and doesn’t allow you to tamp your basket prior to brewing your shot. This is because it does pretty much everything internally. Some people prefer to perform this step themselves, claiming that the correct tamping pressure is essential to good coffee. On the other hand, the highly-automated nature of this espresso machine allows you to make your setting selections and walk away while it does all the work.

Incredible Options

A very easy-to-use, push-button control panel allows you to select your preferred drink type. You can select almost any coffee-related beverage from espresso to baby cappuccino. Users love how simple this espresso maker makes brewing consistently good coffee.

The built-in milk carafe is also something different. Only the Mr. Coffee Café Barista (listed further down this page) also has such a feature. This basically allows the machine to pull milk from the container, steam it automatically and inject it into your coffee drink for you.

The Intelia Deluxe also features adjustable spouts for different sizes of cups, has a bypass area in the bean hopper so you can use pre-ground coffee, and provides a cup warmer on top of the boiler. If you can afford it and ease of use is important to you, this is the best espresso machine you can get.

When you compare the quality and functionality of this pint-sized machine to its price, you may find yourself just a little surprised at how much value it actually offers. Similar espresso machines usually cost at least double.

The DeLonghi EC155, for example, is similar to the DeLonghi Dedica in many ways. The Dedica, too, features simple controls (though these are buttons, not a dial). It is also quite small but can fit taller cups and incorporates a steam wand. The biggest differences are that the Dedica is a little more compact, uses a larger water tank, and heats up faster. With all of this in mind, it actually seems as though the EC155 offers much the same thing (though it is less compact and features more plastic pieces).

If you can put up with its slightly larger size, lower power rating and don’t mind a more plastic-heavy design, you may be just as happy with this DeLonghi EC155 as you would be with the Dedica. What’s more important, for many people: this machine is less than one-third the price of the Dedica.

The Dedica, frankly, looks a lot better in most kitchens and will, we’re guessing, last somewhat longer in most cases. We’re just not confident that it’s literally three times as good. The EC155’s simple controls, steamer wand and powerful 15 bar pump all count in its favor, too.

As another comparison, let’s also look at the Gaggia Classic. The Classic is about 4 times more expensive than this espresso maker, our clear-cut pick for Best Budget Espresso Machine. It is quite similar, except that it features a larger water tank and is built a little more sturdily. However, it does have a slightly more powerful boiler and motor than the EC155, which may well be an indication of better reliability. Both can use either pods or grounds.

Take all of the above into consideration when looking at the more expensive options on this list. Sometimes, you truly get what you pay for, but other times you are really getting a cool bargain with a budget-friendly option.

Whenever you feel that need for a pick-me-up, brew a cup (or two) beneath the split nozzle of this espresso and cappuccino maker. In fact, since it runs off pre-ground coffee, you can even enjoy a cup or two when you don’t need that pick-me-up, by pouring some decaffeinated grounds into the portafilter. It’s also compatible with prepackaged pods.

Small and Simple

The Gaggia Classic is relatively small, meaning that you can easily fit it into most kitchen spaces. In fact, its lack of an internal grinder and bean hopper are benefits if you need a compact espresso machine, perhaps for an office. Its short size does, however, mean that only small cups will fit beneath the nozzle, which is located less than 3 inches above the drip tray.

You may notice that despite being relatively compact, this machine is still a little larger than some others. This is because Gaggia has chosen to include an extra-large 72-ounce water tank at the back of this unit. The large water tank allows you to brew many shots of espresso without having to spend time refilling it.

Not only is this a rather small espresso machine, it’s also a very simple one. Though there are those who prefer a multitude of options and settings, there are also many who simply want to brew a shot in little time and with little effort, but still want the control a manual espresso maker offers. This Gaggia Classic is bound to appeal to anyone from the latter group. It has a total of three switches and one dial. One switch turns the unit on, while the others control whether the unit is brewing coffee or running the steam wand. The dial allows you to adjust the level of steam coming from the wand. It is really as simple as that.

Use the steam wand to froth milk as you please for your cappuccino or to top up an americano. When you are finished with the steaming wand, simply tuck it against the side of the unit to keep it out of the way. Since the wand is located on the right-hand side, it is suggested that you leave some space on this side of the machine when selecting a spot for it on your countertop.

If you’re like most in today’s society, chances are that you live your life in the fast lane and need an espresso machine that can keep up. This incredibly simple machine by Nespresso takes espresso and turns it into eXpresso by removing most of the effort and time it takes to pull a shot.

Mostly about Ease

To make your shot of espresso in the Inissa, you need only follow a few simple steps. First, make sure that the 24-ounce water tank isn’t empty, or remove and refill it. Turn your machine on, pop in a coffee capsule, and press the green brew button on the top of the machine. Stand back as the Inissa handles everything else, then enjoy your drink. It really is that easy.

Of course, with ease comes some sacrifice. You cannot create double shots or brew multiple cups like you can when using, for example, the Jura IMPRESSA. You cannot use fresh grounds at all, which means you can easily keep a wide selection of flavors on hand but will probably pay more per cup. Most significantly, this espresso machine does not come with a steam wand, so you will not be able to add any sort of froth to your beverage.

However, this is the second least expensive espresso machine on this list, which does count for something. Losing out on a few special features might be worth it considering the simplicity of this machine, as well as its affordable price. It features 19 bars of pressure whereas the DeLonghi only features 15. To produce the best espresso from grounds, this is reduced internally to around 9 bar in both cases, but a more powerful pump will tend to last longer.

A Little about Looks

Nespresso engineers know that style is important to many people. In appealing to a bold generation, they’ve created the Inissa in a total of five different color options. You can choose among white, titan red, silver, and black in your quest for the perfect accent to your kitchen space.

Of all the other espresso machines listed on this page, the closest comparison for this one is the Saeco Intelia Deluxe. Considering that this DeLonghi is about half the price of the Saeco, this says a lot. Unsurprisingly, it isn’t quite up to par with its counterpart (it does not, for example, include a built-in milk carafe), but it’s still a pretty good option for those working on a budget, or those still trying out the espresso lifestyle.

Looking over the DeLonghi, you can see that it has many nice features. Its rather large 60-ounce water tank holds more than many of the other tanks on this list and can be removed for refilling. You shouldn’t have to worry about removing it very often, though, since this is a considerable amount of water. An internal grinder takes beans from the integrated bean hopper, selecting the perfect amount for every shot. Since there is no portafilter, this super-automatic espresso machine moves the grounds to the internal group head area for processing.

The motor is capable of fifteen bars of pressure. Though 15 bars doesn’t sound like much when you consider that the Nespresso Inissa exerts 19 bars of pressure, high-quality espresso makers typically regulate this down to 9 bar. This means that having that amount of headroom is a good indication that this espresso machine is over-engineered for durability, as well as recovering quickly between uses. In addition, an advanced pre-soak feature will dampen the grounds before brewing your shot, helping to extract as much flavor as possible.

To select your personalized settings, use the buttons and dial on the front of the machine. Here, you can change the type of beverage, the strength of the brew, the size of the shot/beverage, and turn on the steam wand. You will see the settings you have selected by looking at the easy-to-read display panel. You can even select to brew multiple cups at one time, which is done by placing two cups on the drip tray – one under each side of the split spout.

If you are going to name your business “Mr. Coffee” you better be able to back up that distinction with a quality machine. This company did just that. The Mr. Coffee Café Barista Premium is perhaps second only to the Breville BES87oXL Barista Express in the world of semi-automatic espresso machines. In fact, the only way we can see that its feature set fall behind that of the Breville is that it does not include a grinder. All other things considered, they are really quite comparable.

To brew your shot, begin by packing your pre-ground coffee into the portafilter. The ability to pack your own basket means that you have greater control over how much you use and how tightly it’s compressed (which can greatly impact the strength and flavor of your shot). To tamp your basket, use the tamper built into the handle of the coffee scoop that comes with the Café Barista. Lock the portafilter into the group head by inserting it at an angle and turning it to secure it.

The next step would be to select the type and size of your drink. Whether you prefer an espresso, a cappuccino, or a latte, you can select a single or double shot in either and the machine will draw just the right amount of water to dispense the drink into your cup.

An Integrated Milk Carafe

More unusually, the Café Barista has an integrated milk carafe. The difference between a simple steam wand and an integrated milk carafe is all about user-friendliness. An integrated carafe is great for beginners who are not familiar with the delicate art of actually working a steam wand. It is also great for those who want to set their espresso machine, walk away, and come back to the perfect coffee drink. Simply set it and forget it, since the milk and froth system will steam and dispense milk directly into your cup without your intervention.