Best espresso machine 2025: Top picks from a certified barista

De'Longhi La Specialista Opera is a stainless steel manual espresso machine with smart tamping, a group handle, steam wand, and grinder
(Image credit: Future)

I bought the wrong espresso machine once, and let me tell you, it was an expensive mistake. With a taste for good coffee but limited espresso understanding, I found one that looked good, had great reviews, and was on sale, and took the plunge. While it was a beautiful machine, it required far too much know-how for a newbie like me to get the most out of it.

Now that I'm Specialty Coffee Association-qualified barista, it's easy to see where I went wrong. There are so many coffee makers on the market, and for the average first-time buyer, there's a lot of dense terminology to wade through.

That's why I've put this guide together: it breaks down my tried-and-tested recommendations for the best espresso machines you can buy, but also walks you through the things you need to know before you buy a machine, as well as how to get the most out of each option.

There are three main types of domestic espresso machines — manual, automatic, and superautomatic — and each is suited to a different type of buyer. For confident home baristas who want a good machine and don't want to spend too much, the Breville Bambino Plus will be your best friend. But if you want that extra bit of assistance, I think the De'Longhi La Specialista Opera is the best espresso machine for most people.

Then there are superautomatic espresso machines, which allow you to simply press a button and let your machine do all the hard work for you. If you like the sound of a hands-off option, the KitchenAid KF8 is my top pick.

The quick list

How we test the best espresso machines

We review a lot of espresso machines at Tom's Guide. Very few of them make it into our buying guides, but you can see a comprehensive list of other models we've tested at the bottom of this guide.

When it comes to testing espresso machines, there's a lot of room for human error. In order to minimize this, I work closely with a team of true coffee experts, from former baristas to serious home baristas. Every review you'll read on Tom's Guide will be from a true espresso enthusiast who can tell their flat whites from their cappuccinos and their arabica from their robusta.

a cream-colored retro espresso machine by italian brand smeg is photographed against a blue background with a bag of coffee beside it

(Image credit: Future)

We consider a huge range of factors when evaluating espresso machines. Here's a non-exhaustive list of the things we test for:

Ease of use: You shouldn't have to be a pro to work an espresso machine. These appliances are designed to make life easier, so while it's fair to expect a learning curve if you opt for a manual machine with lots of hands-on features, we mark machines down for any quirks or fiddly features that will make day-to-day use harder for the average buyer.

Ease of cleaning: Some machines are splashy, messy, and get greasy from the touch of a button. These are workhorses, sure, but they're also meant to look nice, so we evaluate whether they spill grounds, splatter milk, or will require any major upkeep with each review.

Value for money: Even a budget espresso machine can be expensive, so we always consider whether a machine is priced competitively when putting it to the test. If we wouldn't recommend our friends spend their money on a machine, we wouldn't recommend it to you, either.

Grinding: If a machine has an in-built grinder, we put it through the same testing that we use when evaluating the best coffee grinders. After all, the quality of your grinder plays a massive part in achieving a good extraction. It's the single most important part of any espresso-brewing process. We evaluate the range of grind sizes on offer with every machine (you'll want a very fine consistency, but this will vary depending on the bean you use), as well as how much coffee a machine grinds automatically. A lot of enthusiasts brew using ratios, so we like to weigh the grounds before we brew for good measure.

Brewing: Albeit an important step, this is also the simplest to test. Whether a machine can brew well is dependent on the performance of the grinder, but we know we've got a quality coffee if it brews at that sweet spot between 190 to 200°F (88 and 93°C) and we get between 25-30ml of espresso. We use a coffee scale to test this, just to be extra thorough.

a red smeg espresso machine with burr grinder is photographed against a blue background

(Image credit: Future)

Taste test: Metrics aside, it's all in the taste-test. We buy high-quality coffee (currently, we're using a subscription to Hard Lines' specialty coffee) that's freshly-roasted to give our machines the best possible chance of brewing a brilliant espresso. And if it tastes too bitter or too tart, we know it's not the beans' fault! If the coffee tastes too grassy, it suggests the machine doesn't brew hot enough, and if it's burnt-tasting, that's a sign that it's not got good temperature regulation and is scorching our grounds.

Milk steaming: Steam wands need to be powerful, ergonomic and responsive. A great wand will not only heat your milk but also help to create a powerful vortex, which will add texture and incorporate air into your milk jug. I'll get more into how to use a steam wand below, but you best believe that if former barista Erin can't get a good texture from a steam wand, there's no hope for a home user.

Super-automatic espresso machines will often feature milk dispensers that automatically froth your milk and pour it into your mug. This is really convenient if you don't like the idea of learning to steam milk by hand, but just so we're clear, these machines don't steam your milk. They simply heat it and inject some bubbles as they pour into your cup. It gets the job done, but it's not going to compete with a coffee shop-quality flat white.

Longevity: You need to be prepared to look after an espresso machine. They block easily if you don't descale regularly, and your group head and steam wand will need to be flushed out periodically. This aside, we've also tried machines that simply don't feel like they're built to last. Where possible, we like to hang onto a top pick for prolonged home use and testing. That way, we can update our guide if it doesn't seem built to last. Our number one, the De'Longhi La Specialista Opera, is currently living with Erin as her home machine, allowing us to continue to evaluate its position in this guide.

What are the main types of espresso machine?

Composite of Rancilio KitchenAid and DeLonghi espresso machines

From left to right, a manual Rancilio, an automatic De'Longhi, and a superautomatic KitchenAid espresso machine. (Image credit: Tom's Guide)

This question used to be a lot more simple to answer: there's manual, and there's super-automatic! However, things have changed a lot in the last few years, and now there's an increasing number of machines that sit somewhere in between.

In truth, it would be easier to characterize types of espresso machine as a spectrum, all the way from lever pump machines like La Pavoni to one-touch super-automatics like Jura.

But to make life easier, I've divided the domestic machines in this guide into three categories:

  • Manual: A manual machine will require you to get hands-on. This category can span from a fully lever-operated espresso machine to a conventional Breville Barista Express. These machines offer little assistance, which is great if you want to get super technical with your coffee, but if you’re not the most experienced, they might make it harder to get a consistently good brew.
  • Automatic: An automatic espresso machine will feature more assistance than a manual option but often look very similar, using a portafilter and typically a steam wand over a milk dispenser. From hands-free milk steaming to guided grinding, this is a growing market in the coffee machine scene and I, for one, am here for it. For examples, think of the Ninja Luxe, or the De’Longhi La Specialista Touch. These machines are designed to still make you feel like a barista, but don’t require years of experience. However, you’ll typically have to pay a bit more for these automated features.
  • Super-automatic: A super-automatic coffee machine from the likes of De’Longhi and Philips will do all the grinding, tamping, brewing, and often milk steaming, for you. They often have a more boxy design that keeps the craft of brewing out of sight, which makes it harder for you to intervene or experiment. These machines are great for people who aren’t that interested in getting involved in the process of brewing coffee, but want a machine that will deliver a consistent brew at the touch of a button. At an entry level, they can cost less than you might think, but they can get very expensive if you opt for premium brands like Jura.

The ABC's of espresso machines

Espresso machines are pretty complicated, which is why I did a dedicated Specialty Coffee Association course before compiling this guide. While I’ve tried to make it as accessible as possible, there is some terminology you might need to learn to understand the reviews below. Here are the ABC's of espresso machines.

  • Basket: An espresso machine will usually come with multiple basket sizes. It’s the removable insert to your portafilter that holds your coffee grounds.
  • Extraction: You extract espresso from your coffee grounds, and a good espresso is a result of a good extraction. You might also see me say ‘pull’. This is a reference to a more manual brewing style which involves a manual lever, but even in modern espresso machines we still say that we ‘pull’ a shot of espresso.
  • Group head: This is where the magic happens. It’s the bit of your espresso machine that you lock your portafilter into, and which dispenses hot water into your puck.
  • PID: PID stands for Proportional-Integral-Derivative controller. A PID will ensure that the temperature during use is consistent, making these machines more convenient for most people to use.

a red smeg espresso machine with burr grinder is photographed against a blue background

A tamper being used to compress a puck into a portafilter. (Image credit: Future)
  • Portafilter: That handle that holds your filter basket is called a portafilter. When testing, I look out for weighty and well-made filters that will stand up to use after use. But if you get a machine with a flimsy one, they’re easy and cheap to upgrade.
  • Puck: Puck wasn’t a word that featured on my initial list, but after writing it plenty of times when writing this ABCs list I thought it might be best to add it in. When you tamp your coffee it forms a ‘puck’. That’s also what you tap out when removing your used grounds from the portafilter.
  • Steam wand: This one is quite self-explanatory, but your steam wand is the long arm at the side of your espresso machine (usually on the right side) that pumps out steam. It’s used to texturize milk for milk-based coffee drinks such as latte and cappuccino.

a red smeg espresso machine with burr grinder is photographed against a blue background

A steam wand being used on the SMEG EGF03 espresso machine. (Image credit: Future)
  • Tamp: Tamping is the process of compressing your coffee grounds to form one solid puck of coffee. Doing this consistently will ensure there’s even pressure when pulling your espresso shot. Some espresso machines will require you to use a tamper by hand, others have in-built tamping functions, and super-automatic machines will do the whole thing for you, as if by magic.
  • Volumetric dosing: An espresso machine with volumetric dosing will pour a specific amount of espresso, typically a single shot or double shot, and stop pouring automatically. Most modern machines have this feature.

Best espresso machine for most people

Low-mess and high performance, this is the best espresso machine for most people

Specifications

Type: Automatic
Dimensions: 14.9 x 14.6 x 17.5 inches
Materials: Stainless steel
Capacity: 1.75 liters
Settings: Single or double shot, cold brew
Removable water reservoir: Yes
Pressure: 19 bar
Steam wand: Manual
Grinder: Yes, with assisted tamping

Reasons to buy

+
Low-mess design
+
Customizable dosage and smart tamper
+
Thick crema with single-walled portafilter baskets
+
Powerful steam wand
+
Espresso, hot or cold

Reasons to avoid

-
Low steam wand

Tested by our reviews writer Erin, who is a former barista, the De’Longhi La Specialista Opera strikes the perfect middle-ground between luxe features and accessibility. There’s very little wrong with this machine. During testing, we found no major flaw with the Opera besides the steam wand lies a little low, so you have to move it out of the way of the group handle to steam milk. And that’s a very minimal qualm.

We particularly noted its mess-free design. It's fun to make espresso from scratch, but grinding, tamping and brewing can be a messy business. The Opera uses an in-built smart tamper which applies even and consistent pressure without scattering grounds around your kitchen.

Erin continues to test the Opera from her home, where it's her go-to espresso machine for day-to-day use. This means it's easier to compare new releases to our top pick, and it also allows us to test whether the machine could run into any issues during prolonged testing.

Best espresso machine under $500

A budget-friendly and compact espresso machine with some extra smart features

Specifications

Type: Automatic
Dimensions: 12.6 x 11.8 x 7.7 inches
Materials: Stainless steel
Capacity: 64 fluid ounces
Settings: 1 and 2 shot, automated steam
Removable water reservoir: Yes
Pressure: 15 bar pump
Steam wand : Yes, automatic
Grinder: No

Reasons to buy

+
Compact yet smart design
+
Competitively priced
+
Speedy pre-heat
+
Incredibly easy to use
+
Automatic milk steaming

Reasons to avoid

-
No grinder included
-
Small drip tray

The Sage / Breville Bambino Plus is an iconic option from one of the most famous coffee brand you'll definitely have heard of. This is the machine I should've bought when I first invested in an espresso machine. Think of it as a blank slate. It could keep a coffee fanatic more than satisfied, but because of its assisted features, it won't let newbie brewers down.

Espresso machines can be chunky, so this is a rare compact option that will sit streamlined in just about any space. It's one of the few options in this guide that doesn't include a grinder, so you'll have to use pre-ground coffee or purchase your own grinder (check out our reviews of the best coffee grinders for some options, but they don't have to be expensive!) to use it.

What really sets this machine apart is its automatic milk steaming. You can choose between 3 foam and 3 temperature settings to achieve your ideal consistency, and leave your wand to do all the hard work with surprisingly brilliant results. But if you did want to learn how to steam milk manually? This machine will let you do that, too. It offers assistance without restriction, making it deal for beginners.

Best superautomatic espresso machine

A coffee-making robot

Specifications

Type: Superautomatic
Dimensions: 18.5 x 10.2 x 14.3 inches
Materials: Stainless steel
Capacity: 74.4 fluid ounces
Settings: Americano, Latte, Cappuccino, Macchiato, Single Shot, Double Shot,
Removable water reservoir: Yes
Pressure: 15 bar
Milk frother: Yes, automatic dispensing
Grinder: Yes, conical steel burr
Accessories: Milk container, milk tube, cleaning tablets

Reasons to buy

+
Easy setup and use
+
Makes multiple coffees fast
+
Users can make profiles and save their favorite drinks
+
Pre-programmed drinks for hands-free coffee making

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive
-
Middling milk texture that can't rival hand-steaming

The KitchenAid KF8 was tested by Erin, our reviews writer who used to be a barista. Suffice to say, she likes getting hands-on with her brewing. But I recommend superautomatic coffee machines for people like my parents, who love coffee but really don't care about learning the ins and outs of how espresso machines work. And with a machine this capable, you really don't need to!

The KF8 allows you to select exactly what you want to drink and will set about grinding, tamping and brewing your shot completely automatically. It looks great, it's easy to use, it's able to keep up with busy families, and it allows you to fully customize your drink to get your exact preference, morning after morning.

The downside is that this machine, as with literally any machine that offers hot milk dispensing over milk steaming, won't rival hand-steamed milk. The mechanism of dispensing frothed milk from a tube simply can't replicate the process, which is something to be aware of if you really love your lattes.

Best budget espresso machine

If you're on a budget and don't mind getting hands-on, this manual option is for you

Specifications

Type: Manual
Dimensions: 12.3 x 12 x 5.9 inches
Materials: Stainless steel, plastic
Capacity: 31 ounces
Settings: 1 and 2 shot, steam
Removable water reservoir: Yes
Pressure: 20 bar pump
Steam wand : Yes, manual
Grinder: No

Reasons to buy

+
Compact
+
Very well priced
+
Surprisingly good espresso
+
Capable steam wand

Reasons to avoid

-
Only comes with two baskets
-
Flimsy portafilter

If you're on a budget, the Casabrews will be a good starting point. Admittedly, you'll need some skill to get great espresso out of this machine. This is because it's manual, meaning there are very few assisted features to make life easier. However, if you're willing to put in the work, the good news is that this machine is more than capable of extracting quality espresso — especially if you pair it with a quality grinder.

Considering the very reasonable price point, it's impressive off the bat that the Casabrews Espresso Machine CM5418 has a sturdy metal construction. On the front are four buttons (power, one cup, two cups, and steam), as well as a pressure gauge, and there is also a button on the side to control the steam wand or hot water dispenser.

The greatest letdown in terms of quality was the portafilter, which felt a little flimsy. Still, for the price, it's hard to complain. Especially because this is something you can easily upgrade on the likes of Amazon.

Best espresso machine for smart features

Versatile, easy-to-use, and packed with smart features

Specifications

Type: Fully automatic
Dimensions: 12.99 in L x 13.39 in W x 14.57 in H
Capacity: 70 oz
Settings : Espresso, Cold Brew, Drip Coffee
Removable water reservior: Yes
Pressure: 14 bar
Steam wand: Yes, automatic
Grinder: Yes, conical burr

Reasons to buy

+
Automatic and manual steaming 
+
Assisted tamper and funnel included 
+
Makes cold brew and drip coffee, too
+
Steam wand purges automatically 

Reasons to avoid

-
No single shot filter included 
-
No pressure gauge 

The Ninja Luxe Café Premier Series is one of the most exciting recent espresso machine launches. In my humble opinion, it's not a looker, but it's hard to deny that it delivers on performance.

Our reviewer Camryn is a coffee-lover, but enjoys assisted features to take the hard work out of achieving espresso-based drinks. So the beginner-friendly design and technical efficiency included with the Luxe Café was ideal for users like her.

The Luxe Café features guidance on grinding, tools for assisted tamping, and a steam wand that can be used automatically or manually, depending on how specialist you want to get. It can also make longer drip-style coffees and even cold brew or cold espresso.

Best luxury espresso machine

The best premium espresso machine on the market

Specifications

Type: Fully automatic
Dimensions: 19.2” (h) x 15” (w) x 14.5” (d)
Materials: Stainless steel
Capacity: 77 oz
Settings : Flat White, Latte, Cappuccino, Espresso, Americano, Babyccino, Hot Chocolate, Tea, Cold Brew, Cold Espresso
Removable water reservior: Yes
Pressure: 15 bar
Steam wand: Yes, manual and automatic
Grinder: Yes, 45 settings

Reasons to buy

+
Super responsive touchscreen
+
It's on wheels for easy movement
+
Volumetric grinder
+
Light and dark display modes
+
58mm baskets

Reasons to avoid

-
Grinding is a bit messy
-
Can't brew and steam simultaneously

There's a reason that Breville is a firm favorite in the coffee maker market. Not only do they get coffee, but they get coffee-lovers.

The Oracle Jet is designed for those who love coffee but is accessible enough to guide you to a delicious brew with minimal skill, which, for beginners or those who would appreciate a helping hand, is a brilliant choice. If money was no object and I was buying the ultiumate machine for my own kitchen, it'd be this one.

There are so many smart features with this machine that reviewing it was a real labor of love. Everything from a front-filling water tank to a wheel-mounted base for easy bean refills has been added. Its touchscreen is incredibly luxurious to use, and the automatic dosing and tamping is an absolute dream.

Best espresso machine for steaming milk

A user-friendly espresso machine with a killer steam wand

Specifications

Type: Manual
Dimensions: 13.1 x 11 x 15.6 inches
Materials: Plastic
Capacity: 74 ounces
Settings: Single or double shot, hot water
Removable water reservoir: Yes
Pressure: 15 bar
Steam wand: Yes, manual
Grinder: Yes, burr

Reasons to buy

+
Steam wand makes velvety milk
+
Preheats quickly
+
Minimal waiting time between pulling shots and steaming milk
+
Easy to clean

Reasons to avoid

-
Grinder dose requires trial and error

The KitchenAid Semi Automatic Espresso Machine with Burr Grinder is the entry-level option in KitchenAid's line of coffee makers. It's a mid-price, high-quality option, but it lacks a lot of the automated features you'll see from options like Breville and De'Longhi.

Where is really stands out is its hightly capable steam wand. Reviewer Erin made latte after latte and said it's as close as she's come to a professional-standard wand since she worked in a coffee shop.

This machine is ideal for those who understand the foundations of coffee and are either ready for an upgraded machine or want to take the plunge and learn from scratch with a quality manual machine that lets you take the reigns.

Best looking espresso machine

Retro looks and modern performance

Specifications

Dimensions: 17.4 x 13.1 x 13.4 inches
Materials: Plastic
Capacity: 80 ounces
Settings: Single or double shot, hot water
Removable water reservoir: Yes
Pressure: 20 bar
Milk frother: Yes, manual
Grinder: Yes,

Reasons to buy

+
Easy to use without customization
+
Steam wand is powerful
+
Gorgeous espresso extraction
+
Stylish

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive
-
Custom programming buttons is finicky

Part of the appeal of espresso machines is the charm they can bring to your kitchen. So if you're aesthetically-driven but still want a decent performer, that's ok!

If you’re a fan of the retro glam aesthetic of Smeg’s range of 1950s-inspired home appliances, you may want to consider the Smeg EGF03 Espresso Machine with Grinder. This semi-automatic machine looks right at home with all other Smeg products and could give your kitchen a bit of pizzazz.

The machine is manual, but a bit like the KitchenAid Semi Automatic, there's some useful features such as automated dosing and pre-set single and double shots that should make that learning curve a little easier for beginners. This is a consistent performer that will deliver shot after shot of tasty coffee, but you'll need to get a little hands-on for the ideal extraction.

Best for espresso enthusiasts

A semi-pro machine that will make you work for your espresso

Specifications

Type: Manual
Dimensions: 17.4 x 13.1 x 13.4 inches
Materials: Plastic
Capacity: 80 ounces
Settings: Single or double shot, hot water
Removable water reservoir: Yes
Pressure: 20 bar
Milk frother: Yes, manual
Grinder: Yes,

Reasons to buy

+
Beautiful, compact build
+
58mm commercial portafilter
+
Relatively affordable
+
Powerful steam wand
+
Makes great espresso

Reasons to avoid

-
No PID
-
Requires fiddly temperature surfing
-
Slow heat up
-
Pricey

Most of this guide is geared towards the average home brewer, but if you want to take it to the next level, the Rancilio Silvia V6 is our recommendation. It was tested by our Reviews Editor Peter, a former chef and serious coffee-lover who doesn't mind taking the time to craft coffee the old-fashioned way.

This machine lacks a lot of the assists you'll find with Breville and De'Longhi machines. There's no PID, no thermoblock, and you'll have to start and stop the extraction yourself.

The plus side of this is that you get complete control over your shot of coffee. Some machines try and steer you because they assume they know better, but if you've got the know-how, this machine will leave you to it and not intervene.

Meet the testing team

I'm pretty cagey with who I let review espresso machines for Tom's Guide. When I bought my first espresso machine, I couldn't tell if my failure to get a good espresso out of my fancy new gadget was the machine's fault, or human error. If I'd written a review of that machine, it wouldn't have been very fair on the reader, or the machine!

But now I've got five years of testing, well over 30 coffee machine reviews, and a Specialty Coffee Association qualification under my belt. My friends are always asking me questions about coffee, why their machine isn't working for them, or which they should buy, so I'd like to think I can be that person to our readers, too.

Fortunately, at Tom's Guide, I'm not alone. We've got a brilliant team of experienced testers with almost 20 years of coffee expertise between us.

Curated by
millie fender author headshot
Curated by
Millie Fender

I'm Tom's Guide's Senior Home Editor, I've been testing and reviewing espresso machines for five years. In my years of testing I've had the chance to travel to the De'Longhi HQ in Italy, where I got to watch espresso machines being made right in front of my eyes.

I've been to coffee tasting sessions hosted by major brands such as Lavazza and Pact Coffee's in-house experts, and I've even recently completed a Specialty Coffee Association foundation-level Barista Skills qualification, meaning I could probably get a job in a coffee shop if testing coffee makers ever gets old.

Most importantly, this experience taught me the difference between human error and poor machine performance, which puts me in the perfect position to assess which espresso machines are actually worth the money.

Tested by
A headshot of Tom's Guide staff writer Erin Bashford.
Tested by
Erin Bashford

As a former barista (and current product tester), I've spent a lot of time getting hands-on with espresso machines.

After a combined three years at two of the biggest coffee chains and a year at an artisan independent coffee shop, I can detect a well-balanced shot when I taste it, and can also interpret the culprit behind a poor extraction, be it low pressure, grind size, or poor temperature controls.

Spending three years making hundreds of coffees a day might make a person gag at the sight of lattes, but coffee still holds a special place in my heart.

My favorite drink is an oat milk flat white, made with Kenyan or Ethiopian beans.

Tested by
Peter Wolinski
Tested by
Peter Wolinski

I’m Tom’s Guide's Reviews Editor and I’ve been an espresso enthusiast for almost a decade now.

As a former chef, I started using commercial espresso machines to make tiramisu while working in an Italian restaurant, and that’s where my fascination with 9-bar pressure began. And it hasn’t stopped since.

Fun fact: every job I’ve held since has given me access to espresso machines — oddly enough, that includes when I worked at an energy company, where we had a commercial Expobar machine plumbed into the office kitchen!

These days, I spend large chunks of my day testing out the latest and greatest coffee gear, from coffee grinders and weighing scales through to pour-over drippers and, of course, espresso machines.

I’ve used home espresso machines from Breville/Sage, Rancilio, Gaggia, De’Longhi, Diletta and more. Through my years of testing (and tasting), I have the experience to know when a machine performs as it should and whether or not it’s worth your hard-earned cash.

Also tested

We test a ton of coffee gear at Tom's Guide, and not everything can make it to the final guide. If I don't include something, that doesn't necessarily mean we don't recommend it, so if none of the machines listed above take your fancy, you might get along better with one of these tried-and-tested options.

Philips Barista Brew Espresso Machine (★★★☆☆)

Philips Barista Brew Espresso Machine (★★★☆☆)

The Philips Barista Brew is Philips' first attempt at an automatic coffee machine. The rest of the line is superautomatic, and start at quite affordable prices. When we tested the Barista Brew, we didn't have an issue with the quality of its extraction or construction, it just struggles to break through the very crowded market of machines that look, cost, and perform almost exactly the same.

Read the full Philips Barista Brew Espresso Machine review

Wacaco Minipresso GR2 (★★★★☆)

Wacaco Minipresso GR2 (★★★★☆)

You probably didn't come to this guide looking for a wireless coffee maker, but this non-electric option is very affordable, super portable, and ideal for travel. It uses a valve to create the pressure needed to extract espresso, and we were really impressed by how well it worked.

Read the full Wacaco Minipresso review

Terra Kaffe TK-02 (★★★★☆)

Terra Kaffe TK-02 (★★★★☆)

The Terra Kaffe is super smart. It claims to feature AI tech that will personalize your brew to your specific preferences, and it certainly looks space-age. The price will rule it out of contention for most people though, and it's also a very large option.

Read the full Terra Kaffe TK-02 review

Philips 3200 Series LatteGo  (★★★☆☆)

Philips 3200 Series LatteGo (★★★☆☆)

The Philips 3200 Series LatteGo is one of the most affordable superautomatic espresso machines on the market. It feels plasticky in use and the milk dispenser will struggle to compete with more expensive options, but if you want a one-and-done option that doesn't cost the earth, it's a good choice.

Read the full Philips 3200 Series LatteGo review

How do espresso machines work?

the fully automatic KF8 KitchenAid coffee machine is a stainless steel large coffee machine with a built-in grinder, milk frother, and espresso machine all in one with touchscreen controls

The KitchenAid KF8 is a super automatic espresso machine with an in-built milk dispenser (Image credit: Future)

If you’re completely new to espresso machines, the thing you have to ask yourself is: “how much time do I want to spend, how much skill do I have, and how much am I prepared to put into this?"

Lucy Dunstan, Product Manager at SMEG

I posed this question to Lucy Dunstan, Product Manager at SMEG and La Pavoni. “It’s quite simple really, it’s all about extracting the flavor from your coffee,” she told me.

“There’s a scientific process for making an espresso. It has to be between 88 and 93°C [190 to 200°F], you have to put about 9 bars of pressure on it, and you want to extract between 25 and 30ml of liquid. So what all these machines do is offer a way of controlling that process.”

There are so many variables that stand between your machine and a perfect espresso. This includes the beans you use, how you grind them, the volume of grounds in your portafilter, the pressure you use when tamping, the temperature stability of your machine, the water pressure exerted, the volume of water pushed into your puck… that’s a non-exhaustive list, and it’s before we even get into milk steaming!

There are so many variables that stand between your machine and a perfect espresso

Here’s what I wish I’d known when I bought my first espresso machine: The more automated features you opt for, the fewer variables you’ll need to worry about. “Sometimes with espresso machines, an entry-level price will actually require more skill,” says Dunstan.

“If you’re completely new to espresso machines, the thing you have to ask yourself is: how much time do I want to spend, how much skill do I have, and how much am I prepared to put into this? So you’re either someone who doesn’t have a lot of time to spend on making your coffee, or you want to delve into that world where you’re getting hands-on.

Why are espresso machines so expensive?

Rancilio Silvia in Stainless steel on a wooden worktop with a blue wall in the background.

(Image credit: Future)

There's an unfortunate irony with espresso machines. You can get good espresso with a cheaper machine, but to do so, you'll need to learn the ins and outs of how these machines work. For the entry-level buyer without much knowledge, you'll often have to spend a lot more on a super-capable machine that will take all the hard work out of the equation.

It doesn't make much sense, right? Coffee enthusiasts can get away with spending $200 on a basic espresso machine because they've got the skill to use it properly, but if you're just dipping your toes in the water? Well, prepare to spend at least $500. It's no wonder why so many people opt for a pod machine like a Keurig or a Nespresso!

Fortunately, the market is catching up. An increasing amount of espresso machines feature assisted settings that will remove some of the variables that can mess up your espresso. This includes automated grinding that controls the volume of coffee dispensed into your portafilter, automated tamping for an even pressure, and even hands-free steam wands that will texture your milk for you.

The majority of the machines I've included in this machine fit into this automatic category in some sense. I think they're the best option for most people, allowing you to learn as you use the machine and get hands-on if you wish, but also taking the reins when you just want a low-effort espresso.

Espresso machine FAQs

Why does pressure matter?

(Image: © Future)

You'll see in the products included I've mentioned how many bars of pressure they each have, but what does this mean, and does it even matter? Well, the short answer is no. You won't necessarily see a better extraction from a machine with 20 bars over a machine with 15. This is because the ideal pressure needed for espresso is 9 bars.

I asked Luke Lane, Training & Events Manager for Sage Appliances, to explain the significance of pressure for espresso machines. "You want to hit 9 bars for optimal extraction," he told me.

"If the pressure is too low, you'll bring out grassy flavors. The pressure won't bring out the sugars from your beans.

"Too high, and your coffee will have a bitter, burnt taste."

If all you need to make a great espresso is 9 bars of pressure, so I asked Lane why so many espresso machines have more?

"Think of it like a car," Lane told me. "You don't want to drive it at top speed all the time, but driving in a comfortable range of what your car is capable of will mean it's not constantly being run flat-out."

He explained that despite the maximum pressure of any machine, they'll use OPVs (which stands for over pressure valves) to keep espresso extraction running at a consistent 9 bars of pressure.

So, while higher pressure doesn't necessarily mean a machine is any better, you might not want to buy a machine with a maximum output of 9 bars, or it could lead to a shorter lifespan for your machine.

Why does basket size matter?

(Image: © Future Photo Studios)

Most espresso machines will come with four baskets: two single and two double, with a mix of double-walled and single-walled constructions. I'll explain the difference between single-walled and double-walled below, but what's the significance of your basket size and capacity?

Luke Lane, Training & Events Manager for Sage Appliances, explained it to me: "There are two main basket widths: 54mm, which features on Sage / Breville's Barista range, and 58mm, which features on our Jet range."

"58mm is considered to be commercial-grade. The larger and shallower basket will give you marginally better results because you're more easily able to permeate all of the grounds inside your basket."

After testing countless espresso machines, I don't think my palette is quite so attuned that I could turn my nose up at an espresso from a 54mm basket. But it's useful to know if you want to replace or upgrade any parts of your machine what size portafilter baskets the group head will fit.

Should I use single-walled or double-walled baskets?

(Image: © Future)

Single-walled and double-walled baskets, also known respectively as unpressurized and pressurized, are included with your espresso machine to give you options. As a general rule of thumb, you'll get better results from a pressurized basket if you're using pre-ground coffee. It will help you overcome some of the shortcomings of a grind size that's too coarse, or coffee that's less fresh. But if you want to taste the authentic flavor of your fresh-ground beans, a single-walled basket is the way to go.

In our reviews, we always use fresh-ground coffee, so we stick to single-walled baskets for the majority of our testing.

When I asked him to explain how pressurized baskets work, Luke Lane, Training & Events Manager for Sage Appliances, said "Think of a group of people running down a hall and having to go through a door." He explained, "That's what the double-walled basket does. It creates pressure by restricting the flow of your coffee, forcing it to build up more flavor and crema than you'd have been able to achieve with a less fresh coffee."

We've done a thorough explainer on this in our guide to pressurized coffee baskets — how do they work and when should you use them? The short answer? They can act as a cheat code to a better espresso if you're not working with the ideal gear, but a machine with an in-built grinder shouldn't need one.

What is the difference between a single boiler, double boiler, and thermoblock?

(Image: © Future)

The vast majority of domestic espresso machines use thermoblock technology to heat water on demand. But how does it work, and what are the pros and cons?

There are very few single boiler machines on the market, but the Rancilio Silvia is one of them. Boiler machines will heat your water and keep it at temperature for as and when you decide to use it. A single-boiler uses one boiler for both the group head and the steam wand, which require different temperatures and therefore will need to you purge excess hot water as you use different elements of the machine.

Dual boilers have one boiler for the group head, and another for your steam wand. They're not super popular for domestic, and I've not included a dual-boiler in this guide. They have a higher energy consumption because they keep your water hot for more precision and stability.

What about thermoblock? I asked Lucy Dunstan, Product Manager at SMEG and La Pavoni, to explain. “A thermoblock is a heated metal block with one or more pipes running through it that will rapidly heat water on demand," she explained.

"They’re usually very compact so they don’t take up much space, meaning they can be fitted in smaller machines, and they’re more energy efficient [than a dual boiler].”

“So the advantage is that they’re fast, small, and energy-efficient. The disadvantage is that they offer less temperature consistency than a dual boiler machine.

"And they can, over time, be susceptible to limescale, so they may not last as long. Whereas if you buy a dual boiler La Pavoni machine, and you look after it, I’d expect it to last you a lifetime.” 

Millie Fender
Senior Homes Editor

Millie is the Senior Home Editor at Tom's Guide. She's been reviewing home tech for over five years, testing everything from coffee makers to the latest vacuum cleaners. Starting out in 2019 as a Staff Writer at TopTenReviews, Millie then moved on to Future's Homes portfolio, where she eventually oversaw all product testing as Head of Reviews.

With particular expertise in cookware and kitchen appliances, you'll struggle to find an air fryer Millie's not tested. She's traveled the world reporting on the latest home innovations and product launches, learning how to use pizza ovens from Pizzaiolos in Naples, and touring the De'Longhi factory in Venice.

When she's not reporting on home and appliance trends, Millie loves watching live music. She's currently learning the guitar - naturally, she plays a Fender.