Whether you love those frothy lattes, cappuccinos with the perfect crema on top, or just a straight double espresso, there’s an espresso machine that’s perfect for you. From top-of-the-line barista style machines, to portable espresso making devices for your next camping trip, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite picks for the best espresso machines out there based on customization, affordability, and of course, excellent espresso brewing capabilities. Have your morning caffeine your way!
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine
Best espresso machine overall
Breville’s Barista Express is the absolute perfect blend of convenience and customization. While most machines require you to either buy finely ground beans — or grind them elsewhere — Breville includes a conical burr grinder capable of holding up to a half-pound of fresh coffee beans.
Why is this important? Freshly ground beans produce the richest and thickest crema on your espresso and provide a fuller espresso flavor. Moreover, the stainless steel conical grinder maximizes the surface area of each grind, which in turn optimizes the extraction of flavor. Because of this, even novice brewers have the ability to craft delicious-tasting espresso.
The Barista Express also features a clean interface that allows you to control the shot volumes and filter size and shows you the extraction pressure of your espresso. When lattes or cappuccinos are on the menu, the swiveling, 360-degree steam wands also allow for easy milk frothing and texture. Breville’s Barista Express is worth it.
Why we love it:
- Includes conical burr coffee grinder
- Control espresso shot volume and filter size
- Swiveling steam wand for frothing
Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine
Easiest to use espresso machine
It can be pretty harsh on your wallet to buy a stand-alone coffeemaker in addition to a stand-alone espresso maker, especially if you’re picky about your brew. With the Nespresso Vertuo, you get a quality 40 oz., two-in-one machine capable of producing some pretty tasty results. Brew five different sizes, from a large cup of coffee, to a single or double espresso.
The Vertuo features a laser reader that identifies barcodes printed on the edge of compatible Nespresso coffee and espresso pods, telling the machine to automatically adjust settings for brewing or pulling. This means that you won’t be able to use pods manufactured by other companies — or loose coffee grounds — but, in all honesty, you probably won’t want to. This bad boy makes some absolutely delicious espresso, and you can also choose up to five different coffee cup sizes when it’s time to brew.
The best part of the Vertuo is its simplicity. One button operates the entire machine, with different functions depending upon when you press it and how long you hold it down. Nespresso’s unique Centrifusion system spins the pod within its chamber, blending the grounds with water to create the trademark foamy Nespresso crema that you’re no doubt familiar with if you have experience with their products. For the extremely reasonable price, this puppy makes high-quality espresso — and coffee — and it does so quickly, without confusion.
Why we love it:
- One button operation
- Five different coffee and espresso sizes
- Centrifusion system creates perfect crema
Mr. Coffee Cafè Barista
Most versatile espresso machine
If you’re after the rich flavor and kick of an espresso beverage but aren’t willing to fork over too much cash, look no further than the Cafè Barista espresso, cappuccino, and latte maker from Mr. Coffee. What we love about this machine is that it nails all of the fundamentals of espresso-brewing without bleeding your bank account, and simple one-touch operation means that even an unvetted espresso drinker will be able to whip up a frothy brew.
The Barista uses a powerful 15-bar pump that builds up the perfect amount of pressure for extracting top-notch flavor and boldness from your morning brew. The simple touch panel lets you choose between single or double shots for your beverage. Just place your mug under the spout, load in your grounds, pick a single or double shot, and then you’re ready to brew. We also love the automatic milk frothing with adjustable control knob, so you won’t have to guess how much cream to load into your drink. Both the milk chamber and water reservoir are removable and easy to clean. This countertop champion also comes with a recipe book for experimenting with new espresso delights, or for a handy how-to for whipping up an old favorite.
Why we love it:
- Simple, one-touch operation
- Easy to clean milk and water reservoirs
- Single or double shot espresso selections
SOWTECH Espresso Machine
Best value espresso machine
A fine cup of espresso is not meant to be bitter and with the SOWTECH Espresso Machine, it doesn’t have to cost as much either. This budget model lets you brew like a pro in the comforts of home while being easy to use. All you have to tinker with is a single switch knob then you’d just have to mind the indicator light. And when you’re craving a latte or cappuccino, you’d just be thankful that it has a frothing arm for that creamy foam to top off your espresso.
Why we love it:
- Single switch knob operation
- Milk frothing arm
- Affordable price
STARESSO Portable Espresso Machine
Best portable espresso machine
The STARESSO Portable Espresso Machine is the ultimate dream come true for anyone who has been wanting to have access to good espresso anytime and anywhere. This compact device packs a punch as it is able to squeeze in a 15 to 20 bar pressure pump that ensures you extract maximum flavor and aroma. And since you’re doing it manually, you don’t have to worry about having a power source to plug it in. You can easily brew espresso, froth milk, and even make a great cold brew with this handy espresso maker. It also easy to assemble and disassemble which makes clean up painless.
Why we love it:
- Compact and portable
- No power source required
- Brews espresso, cold brew, and froths milk
When it comes to your morning coffee, you don’t have to go to a fancy coffee shop to get a great-tasting espresso drink. You can be your own barista and brew the perfect shot of espresso, specialty coffee drink, or even cold brew from the comfort of your own home. The best espresso machines on the market promise ease, customization, and great tasting espresso that will kick start your day with a bang.
