Nothing helps you get the day started more than a shot or two of espresso. Aside from boosting our energy levels, espresso is also filled with antioxidants that help fight free radicals. It also plays a part in improving our digestion, so there are a lot of benefits that we can derive from this drink.
Espresso also makes a great base for a variety of coffee-based drinks, so true aficionados are eager to purchase their espresso machine. But what usually holds them back is the misconception that espresso machines are expensive. Fortunately, not all espresso machines come with expensive price tags – especially if they’re designed for home use. If you know where to look, you can easily snag a great value-for-money machine.
In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the best affordable espresso machine for every budget. We’ve divided them conveniently according to different price ranges to help you easily set your budget.
Best Affordable Espresso Machine: Product Reviews
If you’re looking for the best affordable espresso machine, you’ve come to the right place. I’m a barista and coffee lover, and I’ve rounded up the best budget espresso machines. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, these machines will help you make a delicious cup of espresso. And they’re all pretty affordable, so you won’t have to break the bank to get your caffeine fix.
De’Longhi EC155 15-Bar Espresso Machine
Pros
Cons
The De’Longhi EC155 is another impressive espresso machine for under $100. This durable espresso machine uses a 15-bar pump to ensure high-quality brews for years. Coming from a known brand like De’longhi, this espresso machine can certainly outdo its competitors in terms of brewing quality.
Thanks to its swivel jet frother, you can also enjoy drinks such as latte and cappuccino. This is great for entertaining guests – or for simply enjoying these drinks when you grow tired of espresso shots.
The De’Longhi EC155 semi-automatic machine uses a convenient dial that’s easy to operate. This makes it perfect for beginners since they’re not left guessing what each function does. And considering its price, this is certainly a great first espresso machine for anyone.
And while we’re on the subject of being user-friendly, this espresso machine also boasts a self-priming operation. Thus, you don’t have to perform elaborate rituals just to get it running.
We must note, however, that it has a maximum cup height of 66 centimeters. While this is a decent enough height, taller mugs won’t be able to fit under this machine. For your convenience, the De’Longhi EC155 has a removable water tank with visible water levels. This eliminates the need for guessing the water levels when it needs refills. It is also easy to access, so removing and mounting it back isn’t a problem.
And finally, we love that the components of this machine are removable and dishwasher-safe. This assures you that you don’t need to spend a lot of time cleaning up – just place them inside the dishwasher, and you’re done. That means more time to enjoy and focus on the bigger tasks at hand.
Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso And Cappuccino Maker
Pros
Cons
Another contender for the best cheap espresso machine under $200 is the Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker. This semi-automatic machine uses a 15-bar pump to help exert pressure during the extraction process. This guarantees cups of coffee that taste amazing – even with minimal effort on your part.
If there’s something we love most about the Mr. Coffee café barista espresso maker is that they are designed with the user’s convenience in mind. For starters, it has a simple one-touch panel that makes it easy to operate. Buttons are properly labeled, so you don’t have to guess each function.
It also comes with an automatic milk frothing function so you’re not left with making any guesswork. All you have to do is fill the milk reservoir, and wait for the machine to pour it onto your cup. The amount of milk poured depends on whether you select the cappuccino or latte button.
The water reservoir is also removable, so filling it up won’t be troublesome. This also means that cleaning up is a breeze, and this leaves you with more time to enjoy your coffee or get busy.
Overall, this cappuccino machine is an impressive entry-level coffee maker for those who love premium espresso, latte, or cappuccino on a budget. Because of its user-friendly design, we believe that this is one of the best cheap espresso machines for beginners.
Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15-Bar Espresso Machine
Pros
Cons
If you’re looking for a futuristic espresso machine that will complement your modern kitchen, then look no further than the Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 bar Espresso Machine.
This espresso machine uses a 15-bar pump to give you that tasty shot of espresso. Considering its price, we’re quite impressed by this unit.
Another impressive feature is its built-in steam wand. This allows you to create drinks like a cappuccino, latte, or cortado with ease. The nozzle is also adjustable so you can steam and froth the milk to your liking.
The Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine has a removable tank that has a maximum capacity of 1.3 quarts. This is equivalent to 6 cups of espresso – big enough for the whole family to enjoy.
Its brushed stainless steel exterior not only allows it to blend into most modern kitchens but also makes it easy to clean.
Overall, we love the Klarstein Passionata Rossa 15 Espresso Machine for its hassle-free yet reliable design. It comes with all the features you need to begin brewing amazing espressos at home – and for its price, this is a purchase you won’t regret.
EspressoWorks All-In-One Espresso Machine And Cappuccino Maker
Pros
Cons
The first on our list is the EspressoWorks All-In-One Espresso Machine & Cappuccino Maker. For what it offers, we’re quite surprised that it’s available for less than $300.
This impressive all-in-one espresso machine comes with everything you need to enjoy a nice cup of espresso. This includes a coffee bean grinder, a tamper with a measuring spoon, a frothing cup, and 2 cups, to name a few. These alone guarantee that you’ll get the best value for what you pay for.
The EspressoWorks All-In-One also comes with a built-in steam wand, so you can enjoy milk and coffee drinks such as cappuccino and lattes. The premium filter that comes with this espresso machine comes with two baskets for single and double shots. This comes in handy during days when a single shot can’t seem to do the job.
Despite its value-for-money price, you’d be surprised that this espresso maker can also brew great-tasting coffee. Thanks to its 15-bar pump, the EspressoWorks All-In-One can extract and brew optimally. Also, this espresso machine uses a Thermoblock heating system that helps reach the ideal temperature in 45 seconds. This is not bad for an espresso machine since you don’t have to wait for a long time to enjoy your coffee.
And finally, we love the minimalist interface of the EspressoWorks All-In-One. This makes it really easy to operate, so you don’t have to worry about getting it running. It also has convenient LED indicators that signify when it’s turned on and ready for steaming milk and brewing espresso.
Overall, the EspressoWorks All-In-One is a great espresso machine that offers the best value for the money. The fact that it’s easy to clean is a bonus.
Nespresso CitiZ By De’Longhi
Pros
Cons
The Nespresso by De’Longhi EN167B Original Espresso Machine is one of the most popular machines from Nespresso and for a good reason.
First off, it has a beautiful classic design that makes it an eye-catching piece for your kitchen. It also has compact dimensions that make it portable and easy to store. This also helps save up on counter space, making it perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms.
The Nespresso by De’Longhi EN167B uses an impressive 19-bar pump system to make perfect extractions without compromising the flavor. This is paired with its fast heat-up system that gets the machine ready in 25 seconds.
Since this espresso maker uses the convenient Nespresso capsules, you don’t have to spend a lot of time measuring and tampering with the beans. Just mount the capsule, press the button, and wait for your delicious cup. This capsule system also makes discarding and cleaning up hassle-free.
To give you peace of mind, the Nespresso by De’Longhi EN167B Original Espresso Machine has an energy-saving feature that automatically turns the machine off after a period of inactivity. You can customize this anytime between 9 and 30 minutes. This assures you that even if you’re in a hurry, your coffee maker will turn itself off after the lapse of time.
We also love that it has an adjustable cup tray that allows you to fit cups for 1.35-ounce espresso shots to 5-ounce lungo. It also comes with two pre-programmed recipes for your convenience.
And did we mention that it’s incredibly easy to operate? Whether you’re a techie yuppie or someone new to technology, you won’t have a problem operating the Nespresso by De’Longhi EN167B Original Espresso Machine.
Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma
Pros
Cons
Another beautifully designed yet budget espresso maker is the Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Stainless Espresso Maker. And coming from a reputable brand like Breville, we expected a lot from this machine – and we’re glad to say that it delivered.
Boasting a 15-bar pump, the Breville Cafe Roma delivers the rich and tasty espresso shots that the brand is known for. This feature is paired with a Thermoblock heating system that helps bring out the flavor while also maintaining the ideal temperature for extracting coffee.
The dual-wall filter system also helps produce that velvety crema that improves the overall texture of each shot. The cup warming plate, on the other hand, helps with pre-heating the cup to help preserve the flavor of the espresso. All of these features add up to guarantee excellent flavor.
If you prefer making coffee-based drinks, you can easily do so from home with the Breville ESP8XL Café Roma Stainless Espresso Maker. Thanks to its steam wand, you can steam and froth milk to your desired texture before pouring it into your cup of espresso.
We also love that you can see the water levels on this espresso machine. You don’t have to make guesses or keep opening the tank just to see if it needs a refill.
Cleaning won’t be a problem, either. This espresso maker has a removable drip tray and grid for your convenience. Its boxy shape also makes it easy to clean.
While the Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Stainless Espresso Maker has an intimidating exterior, it is quite easy to use. It comes with a dial that helps you set it to steam, one-shot, or put it on standby mode. It also has convenient indicators that let you know if it’s turned on o heating.
Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Pro
Pros
Cons
The Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Pro Espresso Maker is an eye-catching machine, thanks to its stainless steel housing that’s guaranteed to be long-lasting and rugged.
This heavy-duty espresso machine allows you to create a wide variety of coffee-based drinks. Aside from brewing delicious espresso, the Gaggia Classic Pro comes with a commercial steam wand that can steam and froth milk to your desired texture. This is perfect for making milk and coffee drinks, and especially so for creating latte art.
The Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Pro Espresso Maker also comes with a chrome-plated brass portafilter that’s similar to those of commercial espresso machines. This assures you of the quality and durability of this element.
Another heavy-duty component on this espresso machine is its 3-way solenoid valve. This commercial-grade valve helps relieve the pressure off of the coffee to keep them dry. This makes it easy to discard, so cleaning up after won’t be such a headache.
Despite being a commercial-grade espresso machine, the Gaggia RI9380 is incredibly easy to operate. It has a friendly interface with simple buttons, so you won’t have to guess each function. The buttons also light up to indicate when it’s ready for use – and this makes it more convenient.
We also love that it has a fast-heating system that gets your boiler ready in five minutes, while the steam is ready in just 30 seconds. This makes it an efficient machine for your coffee shop.
The updated design on the frame of the Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Pro Espresso Machine not only guarantees its sturdiness but also allows for easier installation and access to your water reservoir.
Overall, the Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Pro Espresso Machine is a great entry-level commercial-grade coffee maker. Its versatility allows you to create almost every coffee-based drink imaginable, without compromising on taste and quality.
Breville BES810BSSUSC Duo Temo Pro
Pros
Cons
Another barista favorite is the Breville BES810BSSUSC Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine.
This espresso machine boasts a 15-bar pump that boasts brewing rich and flavorful espresso. The machine starts at a low pressure to evenly extract coffee from the beans which then gradually increases to give you that rich and full flavor. This is why it boasts giving you cafe-quality coffee from your home.
The Breville BES810BSSUSC Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine already comes with a steam wand, so you can steam and froth milk to your liking. This 1600-watt element is also capable of making micro-foam, which is known to enhance the flavor while being versatile enough to create intricate latte art.
You don’t have to worry about getting this machine to the right temperature. The Breville Duo Temp Pro has a built-in auto-purge system that effectively releases the heat to make sure that you brew at the ideal heat at all times. This also prevents it from overheating and breaking down.
Aside from the auto-purge system, this espresso machine also comes with digital temperature control technology. This feature helps maintain the right water temperature to guarantee a smooth extraction process while also making sure that the optimum flavor remains.
We also love that the Breville BES810BSSUSC Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine has a boxy shape that makes it easy to clean. It also boasts maintenance indicators that tell you when it’s time to make the necessary repairs. This keeps you from forgetting when you have to take your machine for regular maintenance.
Overall, the Breville BES810BSSUSC Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine is your best bet if you’re looking for a high-quality espresso machine that’s low-maintenance and specially designed for home use.
Calphalon BVCLECMP1 Temp IQ
Pros
Cons
Another barista favorite is the Calphalon BVCLECMP1 Temp iQ Espresso Machine. This beautiful espresso machine has a 15-bar pump that guarantees a flavorful extraction. This is paired with an enlarged portafilter that helps evenly wet the coffee grounds to maximize the flavor. Thus, you don’t have to worry about a watery or weak espresso shot with this machine.
The Calphalon BVCLECMP1 Temp iQ uses Thermoblock heating technology coupled with PID temperature control to ensure easy heating while maintaining the temperature to prevent overheating the beans for the best flavor. We also love that it has a 2-liter capacity, so you don’t have to make frequent refills. And even if you have to make a refill, the hinged lid makes it easy to access for your convenience.
While we’re on the subject of convenience, you’d be pleased to know that this has a classic dial that’s easy to operate. It also has convenient indicators that tell you when it’s ready to brew or steam so you’re not left with guessing or making estimates.
Another impressive feature of the Calphalon BVCLECMP1 Temp iQ Espresso Machine is its cup-warming tray. We all know that espresso tastes best in pre-heated cups, so the Temp iQ’s heating tray does the job for you. It also comes with a steam wand, which allows you to create virtually any coffee-based drink you want.
Without a doubt, the Calphalon BVCLECMP1 Temp iQ is a complete coffee machine that produces delicious and creamy cafe-quality single or double-shot espresso without breaking the bank.
Best Budget Espresso Machine: Buying Guide
Not that you know our top picks, but you might still seem hasty in immediately making a purchase – and we don’t blame you. After all, an espresso machine is meant to make your mornings better, so it’s best to give it some thought before buying one.
To help you make an informed decision, we have also prepared this comprehensive buying guide for you. Here, we will discuss the different factors that you have to look into when it comes to buying an espresso machine.
Heat-Up Speed
The first factor that you have to consider is the heat-up speed of the machine. This tells you how fast it can prepare your drink.
If you’re someone who’s always on the go, or if you’re planning on using the machine for your cafe business, then it’s best to go for a machine with fast heat-up speed. An espresso machine that heats up within a minute is generally considered fast.
On the other hand, if you’re not always in a hurry, then an espresso machine will do the trick.
Pressure
Bear in mind that espresso is extracted by pushing water evenly onto the coffee grounds. This is made possible with the use of pressure from the pump on the espresso machines.
A 9-bar pump is considered decent for the purpose of extracting flavorful and rich espresso shots. And with that said, higher pressures help preserve the natural flavor of the beans.
Nevertheless, this doesn’t mean that espresso machines with lower-pressure systems won’t do a good job. Some espresso makers with 3.5-bar pumps can also do the job well, especially if it has a temperature-maintenance system.
Temperature Maintenance
Working hand in hand with the machine’s pressure output is the temperature maintenance feature.
Ideally, espresso should be brewed somewhere between 190 and 195 degrees Fahrenheit to get that full and rich flavor. Beyond that, you’ll end up with a shot that’s too bitter – and that could seem unpleasant.
With that in mind, a good espresso machine must have a temperature maintenance feature that would prevent the machine from overheating. This guarantees that even if the machine has been turned on for a long time, the flavor will not be affected.
Easy Operation
Another important feature that you have to look into is whether it’s easy to use or not. The ease of use isn’t a big deal if you’ve operated an espresso machine before. But, if this is your first time owning an espresso machine, we recommend going for one that doesn’t require a complicated setup.
Fortunately, most of today’s espresso machines are relatively easy to use. Some have minimalist control panels that allow the user to easily input their desired settings. And with the push of a button, the machine automatically prepares their drink within seconds.
Also, you must consider all the coffee lovers in your household. Will your parents be able to brew their espresso easily? Will your kids be able to turn it on by accident? These are just some of the questions that you have to answer before buying.
Easy Clean-Up
Aside from ease of operation, you should also look into how easy the machine is to clean up. Some espresso machines come with removable elements that make them easy to clean. Some of them also have smooth surfaces, so wiping them down after use won’t be a problem.
In some designs, the drip tray is fully removable, so you can easily unload and clean them in the sink. You can also try and look for espresso machines with dishwasher-friendly components. This saves you a lot of time in cleaning up – especially if you’re a busy person.
Kitchen Counter Space
The space that the espresso machine occupies is also something that you should consider. This isn’t a problem if you have a large kitchen, or if you plan to use it for your business. However, if you are living in a place with limited space, you might want to go for a machine that doesn’t take up a lot of space on your counter.
Fortunately, a lot of manufacturers have considered kitchen counters. Most of today’s newer espresso machines do not eat up a lot of space, so your tiny kitchen won’t feel cluttered. This also leaves you with a bigger elbow room for when you’re preparing meals.
FAQs
Can You Make Espresso Without A Machine?
Yes. Espresso is produced using pressure exerted onto coffee grounds, and using an espresso machine makes the process easy and hassle-free. Alternative tools for espresso making include a French Press, an AeroPress, or a Moka Pot. All of these tools similarly make a rich and delicious espresso.
Can Espresso Machines Make Regular Coffee?
In general, espresso machines cannot make regular coffee. The processes required to make espresso and regular coffee are different, so you can’t make regular coffee with most average espresso machines. The only exception is if you own a dual-purpose machine that can make espresso and brew regular coffee.
What Kind of Water to Use in Espresso Maker?
To make the best-tasting espressos, experts advise using softened water for your espresso machine. Filtered tap water does the trick, especially if your espresso maker uses a removable water tank.
What Coffee Beans to Use?
In general, you can use all kinds of coffee beans for your espresso machine. The determining factor usually lies in the taste and aroma you want to achieve for your shot of espresso. However, you should also pay attention to your machine’s filter and filter basket.
What Is A Manual Espresso Machine?
A manual machine is a device that allows you to control the extraction process for your espresso. It features a lever that helps you exert your desired amount of pressure onto the coffee grounds to produce the espresso. Manual espresso machines allow you to save a ton of electricity bills.
Final Words
For those below $500, our top pick would have to be the Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Pro Espresso Machine. We were impressed by how a budget espresso machine works at par with premium machines that are twice its value.
For the machines below $300, we were in awe of the EspressoWorks All-In-One. This machine stayed true to its name as an all-in-one device that can brew delicious and aromatic coffee-based drinks for your home and office.
As we moved down the price level category, we found ourselves impressed by the Nespresso by De’Longhi EN85BAE Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine. We couldn’t believe how such a compact espresso machine could brew strong and flavorful coffee – and available in the market for less than $200.
And finally, the espresso machine that offers the best value for money is the De’Longhi EC155 15-Bar Espresso Machine. With a price tag that’s below $100, we couldn’t believe that you’re already getting a 15-bar espresso machine under 100 with some exciting features.
Enjoy Your Coffee!!
