Top-Rated Espresso Machines Brands to Elevate Your Home Coffee Experience

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Best Espresso Machine with Milk Frother

KitchenAid Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine

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If you’re looking to make your own lattes at home, look no further than the KitchenAid Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine.

From the start, this espresso machine is a joy to use. “Set up is a cinch,” says Mark. With a quick glance at the directions, he explains you can have an espresso brewed in just a few minutes. Another 30 seconds, and you can have that latte!

To make your favorite brew, you’ll compress the espresso grounds into a disc, just like you see your barista do at the coffee shop. Fit the portafilter into the machine, make your dosage selection and press start. It only takes about 45 seconds for the machine to reach the optimal brewing temperature. From there you get a perfectly hot and strong demitasse of espresso.

“This machine brews espresso with a beautiful, thick layer of crema (that’s that bit of foam that sits atop a freshly pulled shot) that doesn’t disappear quickly,” says Mark. “It’s a nice, bold espresso—delicious.”

If you want to take that shot of espresso to the next level, use the milk frother. This attachment heats and froths milk for all sorts of café-style drinks, including lattes. You can even make a flavored latte by using homemade coffee creamers. Mocha latte, anyone?

After you’ve made everyone in your home a next-level coffee drink, this sleek KitchenAid espresso machine is easy to clean. The exterior can be wiped clean and the other parts wash up easily in the sink (skip the dishwasher).

Features

• Cup warmer on top of the machine
• Programmable brew dosage and temperature
• Includes frothing wand and stainless steel milk pitcher
• Can brew two cups at once

Price: $350

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Best Small Espresso Machine

Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine

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With a name like bambino (meaning “baby” in Italian), is it any wonder we named the Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine the best small espresso machine?

This compact home espresso maker takes up about as much room as a traditional drip coffee maker and fits easily under cabinets with room to spare.

When it comes time to put this baby to work, Mark says it’s pretty simple. Each of the five buttons controls basic functions like temperature, brew strength and quantity—all of which you can customize to suit your espresso needs.

In the Test Kitchen, our team enjoyed cup after cup of espresso. “It makes a full-bodied, dark, beautiful espresso,” says Mark. “There’s a thick layer of crema on top and a lot of rich flavor.”

Take things to the next level with the attached frothing wand. Manually heat and froth milk with the included pitcher (a nice bonus piece of equipment) or use the machine’s hands-free milk frothing function. “Just set the temperature and degree of foaming you prefer and voila!” says Mark. “The machine does it all for you.” With this feature, making cappuccinos, lattes and macchiatos is easier than ever.

This machine is easy to clean; all parts should be washed in warm soapy water (skip the dishwasher). And after 200 uses, the machine will alert you that it’s time for a deep clean. That’s a nice reminder and will keep your espresso tasting great and the appliance running smoothly.

While this option may have a high price tag, know that “Breville is a top-notch brand and its quality is evident in this machine,” per Mark. It’s a piece of equipment that will make anyone feel like a barista.

Features

• Steam wand attachment with included milk pitcher
• Hands-free milk frothing feature
• Adjustable brewing, foam and temperature functions
• Includes a tamper, steam wand cleaner and filters
• Available in six attractive finishes including navy, stainless steel and deep red

Price: $500

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$999 at Amazon

Best Automatic Espresso Machine

Jura ENA 4 Automatic Coffee Machine

$999 at Amazon

For a fully automated espresso experience, which means making a cuppa with just a push of a button, our Test Kitchen recommends the Jura ENA 4 Automatic Coffee Machine.

This home espresso machine takes whole beans and converts them into espresso (or coffee) in less than a minute. This allows you to get the freshness of freshly ground coffee without the mess of transferring from a stand-alone coffee grinder to the espresso machine.

Before using the Jura ENA 4, Mark suggests giving the manual a quick read. “Once it’s set up and you’re familiar with the buttons, it’s surprising how fast and efficiently this machine works,” says Mark. “It’s rather fun!”

When the machine is set up on your counter coffee station, just select the preset you desire—that’s it! This countertop gadget allows you to brew different types of coffee and espresso, including doppio (that’s a double shot). You can further customize the brew strength and volume of water with this Jura home espresso machine as well.

“The coffee is also delicious,” explains Mark. You can use the Jura ENA 4 to make classic mugfuls of non-espresso coffee. “The result is deep and rich with a crema on top; a well-made cup of coffee,” per Mark.

When you’re done brewing, cleaning this espresso maker is simple. Used grounds are compressed and dispensed by the machine so they’re easy to toss. The outside can be wiped down and the drip tray can be tossed in the dishwasher. The cleaning is as fuss-free as the brewing.

The only drawback to this model, according to Mark, is that it does not come with a milk frother. You can invest in a handheld milk frother, though, for under $20. It’s a great gift for coffee lovers!

Features

• Automatic shut-off
• Makes coffee and espresso with preset options for both
• Adjustable brew strength
• Attached bean storage

Price: $999

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Best Budget Espresso Machine

Illy Y3.3 IperEspresso Espresso & Coffee Machine

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Our Test Kitchen experts gave the Illy Y3.3 IperEspresso & Coffee Machine high scores for two reasons: it’s budget-friendly and it’s the best espresso machine for beginners.

Now, going into this test, Mark explains that he had some reservations: “It seemed almost too simple in its design,” he says. But this simplicity, paired with performance, is what makes this Illy espresso machine such a good option for outfitting your kitchen.

To use this machine, pop an Illy espresso capsule into the drawer, close it tightly (use a bit of elbow grease here, per Mark’s instructions) and press the brew option you desire—one or two shots. That’s all there is to it. The resulting espresso is “dark and rich,” according to Mark, with a good amount of crema on top. You can also use this Illy espresso machine to make individual cups of coffee; the brand sells coffee capsules as well.

This home espresso machine does not include a milk frother attachment. This isn’t an issue if you take your espresso black. However, if you want to froth up milk for your morning latte, invest in this editor-favorite frothing wand.

Overall, this is the best espresso machine for beginners. You truly open the box, fill the reservoir and go. With the Illy capsules, there’s no measuring required. Plus, at a price that’s significantly less than most at-home espresso machines, you can’t go wrong here.

Features

• Automatic shut-off
• Detachable water reservoir
• Removable drip tray
• 1- or 2-shot brewing options

Price: $149

What to Look for When Buying a Home Espresso Machine 

Regarding coffee-related kitchen appliances, espresso machines are among the most varied — with some boasting simplicity similar to a standard drip coffee maker and others so complex they may rival your computer. To simplify your shopping journey, we’ve identified some of the most important factors you should consider below.

Type of Machine 

• Manual Lever Espresso Machines: Considered the original espresso machines, these devices utilize a manually operated lever to force water through the coffee grounds to make espresso. They’re the simplest machines but require the greatest amount of skill.

• Semi-Automatic Machines: You’ll likely see these espresso machines in smaller, independently-owned coffee shops. Some of their most vital features are automated—like temperature and pressure—and require some skill, but their output is very consistent.

• Automatic Machines: As their name suggests, this class of espresso machines works largely on automation. A single button push produces a serving of espresso as long as the machine’s reservoirs (water and beans/grounds) are full. They’re incredibly easy to use but often lack customization options.

• Super-Automatic Machines: About the closest you can get to a robot butler, this kind of espresso machine doesn’t just automatically make servings of coffee; it can froth and serve milk, too, making entire lattes at the push of a button. They require the least skill and are entirely subject to the manufacturer’s settings (they’re the least customizable).

Ease of Use 

As you’re likely to use your espresso machine first thing in the morning, it’s essential to understand how difficult it is to use. The more expensive, automated machines are effortless to use—requiring only the push of a button to make a beverage—but they may require regular, professional maintenance. Semi-automatics and manual lever options have a higher initial learning curve but require less professional help in the long run. Ensure you’re comfortable with the learning requirements and skill curve before purchasing.

Pressure and Temperature Control 

• Pressure: This metric is measured in “bars.” Your machine should consistently produce 7-11 bars of pressure for good espresso. Machines that hit nine or higher can produce a rich, concentrated espresso shot.

• Temperature Stability: The ideal hot water temperature for espresso is 195–205 degrees. Like pressure, the temperature must be consistent to produce quality coffee.

Build Quality 

• Materials: Many espresso machines are made from metals, like stainless steel, because they are subject to heavy usage and high temperatures, which metals can withstand. Some budget-friendly machines are crafted with plastic to save on cost and weight.

• Longevity: Heavy-duty machines made mostly of metal will last longer than more budget-friendly plastic options. However, your espresso machine’s life depends on regular maintenance and care. High-quality machines could last anywhere from 15 to 20 years with proper care.

Grinder Quality 

• Integrated vs. Separate:  Many espresso machines, especially automatic ones, come with integrated grinders, allowing you to pour whole beans into the hopper. The machine then grinds the beans and automatically feeds them through the machine. Other models might have an attached but separate grinder, requiring you to manually fill a portafilter before inserting it into the machine. There are also machines without built-in grinders, necessitating the purchase of a separate grinder to prepare your coffee.

Milk Frothing Capability 

Some espresso machines come with a steaming wand, an accessory resembling a thin metal tube with a bulbous end. This device allows you to froth milk and is necessary for making lattes and cappuccinos.

Water Reservoir Size 

The size of the water reservoir determines how many espresso shots you can make before refilling it. Larger capacity reservoirs yield more espresso but also make the machine larger and more cumbersome (especially when full). Some reservoirs can be removed for easier cleaning, whereas others are integrated into the machine and require periodic cleaning cycles.

Cleaning and Maintenance 

• Cleaning Ease: Espresso machines with removable parts are often easier to clean, as you can take them apart, scrub them in your sink and replace them. Furthermore, the instruction manual outlines how to run cleaning cycles and frequency, which helps keep the internal bits of your espresso machine operable. Automatic machines are harder to clean than manual machines.

• Maintenance Needs: Every espresso machine, whether simple or complex, requires maintenance — like replacing gaskets, tubes, valves, etc. The manufacturer’s instructions outline the types of maintenance and their cadences. Adhere to these guidelines if you want your machine to last. 

Additional Features 

• Programmable Settings: Some espresso machines allow you to create custom preset programs in addition to standard settings. These programs develop and easily access personalized recipes outside the machine’s standard operation.

• Cup Warmer: Many espresso machines have a metal grate on the top that allows residual heat from the machine to escape. This grate warms your mug so coffee stays hot when poured instead of transferring heat to a cold mug.

• Water Filter: The water quality can significantly impact espresso’s flavor, so some espresso machines have an integrated water filter. However, the majority of espresso machines do not include this additional feature.

Warranty and Customer Support 

Warranties and customer support are essential for espresso machines, especially higher-tech models. Every company has varying policies, and it’s vital to understand exactly what a given machine’s warranty entails before purchasing. You may also need to register your appliance ahead of time to access warranty or customer support services.

Why You Should Trust Us  

Lisa Kaminski spent six years as an associate editor at Taste of Home, dedicating herself to finding and testing quality ingredients, kitchen gear and home products and writing articles about the best-of beverages, snack foods and ready-made baking ingredients. She also led the Taste of Home Bakeable program, a guide-to-baking hub and social community of 20,000 home bakers.

Mark Neufang has over 20 years of experience in the culinary industry, including six years in the Taste of Home prep kitchen. In addition to his work for Taste of Home, he has tested recipes for Baked, a Brooklyn bakery, Food52 and The Vanilla Bean Blog.

Sean Tirman, Content Updates Editor at Taste of Home, updated and contributed research to this piece. Sean has written shopping guides since 2016 and is a former associate editor at Gear Patrol. 

How We Tested Espresso Machines

Our Test Kitchen staff is full of coffee fanatics and espresso aficionados (many of whom are former baristas). For them, this test was a joy—plus it kept our staff fueled up as they tested our readers’ recipes. (Remember: You can submit your recipes to us anytime!)

Our Test Kitchen’s wonderfully talented Mark Neufang led the charge trying out 10 different home espresso machines. Over the course of weeks, Mark and our culinary crew took careful notes on how the espresso makers worked, what kind of espresso they made and more.

We made sure to answer all these questions that are top-of-mind for anyone shopping for a home espresso machine:

• Operation: How easy is it to use the machine? Can you plug it in and go? Does it require any barista-level knowledge before brewing? Are there a lot of settings to configure before starting?
• Quality of espresso: How does a cup of freshly brewed espresso look? How is the brew strength? What about the flavor?
• Ease of cleaning: Is the machine easy to clean and disassemble? Are the components dishwasher-safe?
• Extra features: Can the machine froth milk? Does it include a bean grinder? Can you adjust the brew strength or temperature?
• Size and appearance: How large is the machine? Can it fit in small spaces? Does it easily fit under cabinets? Does it look attractive sitting on your counter?
• Price: Is the quality and performance of the machine reflected in the price? Simply: Is it worth the money?

Check out the best home espresso machine models as chosen by our Test Kitchen. Any of our top picks will be the perfect addition to your kitchen’s coffee bar.

FAQ

What should you never do with an espresso machine?

Never skip cleaning and maintenance. If you don’t regularly clean your machine and perform the required maintenance, it will break down quickly.

How many BARs should a home espresso machine have?

To produce good espresso, machines must consistently produce seven to 11 bars of pressure.

What espresso machine requires the most experience to operate?

Manual lever espresso machines require the most experience and expertise in order to operate, as they’re entirely manual and have zero automated features.

Should I leave my espresso machine on all the time?

No. Keeping the machine running all the time means it is always hot, and the consistent heat can damage internal parts, like gaskets. It’s important to shut down espresso machines when not in use.