7 Best Home Espresso Machines to Buy in 2024

In one of my talks with Emily who is a Seattle based home brewer, I got to know about the situations that people undergo while choosing the right espresso machine for their home.

We discussed that the price is one of the constraints when choosing these machines as people want advanced features along with the best price.

So I thought to research Amazon and other e-commerce websites to find espresso makers that strike a good balance between features and pricing.

And know what! I have successfully found them.

In this article, I will list down the best home espresso machines that are budget-friendly, good for your home, and include advanced features.

So let’s start.

Factors to Consider When Buying Espresso Makers For Home (Buying Guide)

1) Type of Espresso Machine

Determine whether you prefer a manual, semi-automatic, automatic, or super-automatic machine based on your desired level of control, involvement in the brewing process, and overall convenience.

2) Boiler Type

Single boilers may require switching between brewing and steaming, while dual boilers allow simultaneous tasks. Heat exchangers are another option. Choose a boiler type that suits your preferred brewing style and the types of drinks you intend to make.

3) Pump Pressure

It plays a vital role in extracting flavors from coffee grounds. Opt for a machine with sufficient pump pressure (usually 9 bars or higher) to ensure proper extraction and the creation of a rich, flavorful crema.

4) Grind Size Consistency

Consistent grind size contributes to a uniform extraction process which is necessary for a balanced and flavorful espresso. Look for a machine with a built-in grinder or ensure compatibility with a high-quality grinder.

5) Frothing Capability

If you enjoy milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, consider the machine’s frothing capability. A good steam wand or frother is essential for creating creamy and well-textured milk froth. Machines with adjustable frothing options offer versatility.

6) Water Reservoir Size

The size of the water reservoir determines how many shots you can pull before refilling. Consider your daily coffee consumption and choose a machine with an adequate water capacity to avoid frequent refills, especially if you entertain guests or have a larger household.

7) Size and Design

If you have limited counter space in your kitchen or wherever you want to put the machine in your home, this factor is very crucial for you. Consider the machine’s dimensions, placement of controls, and overall aesthetics to ensure it fits well in your kitchen and complements your style.

8) Ease of Cleaning

Espresso machines require regular cleaning to maintain performance and taste. And if you don’t want to spend lots of time just cleaning the machine, get a machine that is easy to clean. Consider machines with easy-to-clean features, removable parts, and descaling options. Also, if your budget allows, look for a machine with a self-cleaning function as it can save you time and effort in maintenance.

9) Accessories Compatibility

Check whether the machine is compatible with accessories such as coffee grinders, tamper tools, and milk frothers. Having a seamless integration of accessories can enhance your overall espresso-making experience.

7 Best Home Espresso Machines

This at-home espresso maker comes with a professional frothing wand which enhances the espresso-making experience by allowing users to craft barista-quality cappuccinos and lattes.

The 360-degree rotation of the steam wand ensures a thorough frothing process, resulting in silky and smooth milk foam that enhances the texture and flavor of espresso-based drinks. This feature is particularly appealing to those who appreciate the artistry of frothing in specialty coffee beverages.

One of the key highlights is the dual temperature control system which provides users with precise control over both water and milk foam temperatures.

This dual control allows for a tailored approach to achieving the ideal taste and texture in each cup of coffee. The clear temperature dial enhances user-friendliness, providing a visual guide for adjusting temperatures.

This makes the machine suitable for coffee lovers of all levels, including beginners who may be navigating the complexities of temperature management.

To ensure optimal flavor extraction, the machine recommends using two cups of 60ml/2oz each, paired with approximately 14g/2 spoons of coffee powder.

This guidance underscores the importance of concentration in obtaining the best flavors from the coffee grounds, contributing to a rich and satisfying espresso experience.

Also, the convenience extends to the cleaning process with the removable froth nozzle, simplifying maintenance.

The humanized design also includes a removable drip tray, allowing for the use of larger cups, and a rust-resistant stainless steel nipple for added durability.

The comprehensive set of included components, such as the Espresso Machine, Portafilter, 2-shot funnel, Scoop/Tamper, and User Manual, ensures users have everything they need to begin their espresso-making journey from home.

This espresso maker also incorporates a self-turn-off feature upon reaching the desired amount of espresso, adding a layer of convenience and energy efficiency.

Additionally, a user-friendly reminder emphasizes the importance of securely installing the funnel to prevent any mishaps during the brewing process.

This home-suitable coffee machine comes with a milk frother. This component enables users to texture creamy and rich microfoam milk, opening up possibilities for creative milk foam art that can add a visual and flavorful dimension to their brews.

So be it a perfectly crafted latte, a frothy cappuccino, or a nuanced macchiato, this espresso coffee maker offers versatility in brewing options.

The stainless steel exterior not only adds a touch of sophistication to any kitchen but also ensures durability which makes it an excellent fit for kitchens of varying sizes.

At the heart of its brewing capabilities lies the professional 20-bar pressure system, combining a semi-automatic 2-in-1 design with a robust 20-bar Italian pump and a powerful 1350W boiler. This configuration guarantees high-quality extraction, resulting in a more aromatic and flavorful espresso.

The built-in pressure gauge on the cappuccino machine provides a visual cue, allowing users to fine-tune the brewing process to match their personal taste preferences.

This level of control ensures the creation of customized cappuccinos, lattes, or flat whites in the comfort of one’s home or office.

The compact, stylish, and practical design of the espresso machine ensures easy integration into any kitchen space.

Capable of producing single or double espresso shots with a delightful layer of crema in just minutes, the machine offers a balance between style and functionality.

The 34 oz detachable water tank facilitates easy refilling and accommodates the brewing of multiple cups.

One of the things that I like about this machine is that it also comes with a comprehensive set of included components, such as the Espresso Machine, 34 oz Removable Water Tank, One Cup Brewing Filter, Two Cup Brewing Filter, Portafilter, Tamper With Spoon, and Instruction Manual, equips users with everything they need to embark on their espresso-making journey with confidence.

It is equipped with a powerful 20-bar pump. This semi-automatic machine provides a pressurized portafilter, offering complete control over the richness and flavor of your coffee.

What sets it apart is its versatility, accommodating both ground beans and E.S.E. espresso pods.

This flexibility empowers users to tailor their brewing experience to their preferences, whether it be experimenting with different coffee blends or opting for the convenience of espresso pods.

Italian-designed and featuring a milk frother, this espresso machine opens up a world of possibilities for coffee enthusiasts. From lattes to cappuccinos, macchiatos, and beyond, users can indulge in their favorite coffee drinks from the comfort of their homes.

The machine’s design emphasizes space-saving without compromising key features. With included components like a scoop, tamp, and single/double/ESE baskets, this compact espresso machine seamlessly integrates into any kitchen, making it a practical choice for those with limited countertop space.

The removable drip tray and pour spout, along with the auto-purge function on the steam and hot water wand, streamline the cleaning process. This feature ensures that maintaining the machine’s hygiene is a hassle-free task, enhancing the overall user experience.

Adding to its user-friendly design is the 44 oz removable water tank, a thoughtful inclusion that reduces the need for frequent refilling. This feature is particularly advantageous for those who prefer a continuous brewing experience without interruptions.

This home automatic espresso maker comes with a powerful golden pump with precise temperature control set at 197℉. This ensures that each cup of coffee is crafted with the same precision found in your favorite cafes.

From robust Espressos to silky Cappuccinos, a world of flavors is at your fingertips, and the coffee is brewed in a swift 15-30 seconds, allowing you to savor instant perfection without compromise.

A simple touch on the intuitive digital control panel puts you just moments away from enjoying your perfect cup.

It is also equipped with a versatile steam wand that effortlessly masters the art of crafting lattes, cappuccinos, and more.

With adjustable dry steam, you can achieve velvety smooth textures or indulgent richness which makes it the perfect tool to fulfill your milk frothing desires and add that extra layer of flavor to your favorite beverages.

The detachable 1.5L water tank, designed for everyday home use and entertaining guests, caters to any occasion. It is crafted with durable 304 stainless steel, and the machine ensures long-lasting performance with its scratch-resistant construction, emphasizing both style and durability.

Like all the above mentioned machines, this one also comes with necessary accessories that enhance your home espresso brewing experience.

This at-home espresso maker comes with a versatile steam wand that allows you to craft your favorite espresso-based coffee drinks. From the comfort of your home, enjoy expertly brewed lattes, cappuccinos, or macchiatos.

Its stainless steel construction and compact design make this espresso machine a stylish addition to any kitchen, catering to any size space.

Equipped with a powerful 20-bar professional Italian pump and a 1350W heating system, this espresso maker ensures top-quality extraction, resulting in a more fragrant and rich aroma in every cup.

The built-in pressure gauge provides a visual representation of the exact pressure, allowing for adjustments according to your personal taste preferences. This level of control ensures that, whether at home or in the office, you can consistently create your favorite coffee with the precision of a cappuccino maker.

The inclusion of a powerful steam wand that can rotate 360° enhances the milk frothing system, producing creamy and rich microfoam milk to enhance flavor and enable the creation of latte art.

The machine also features a hot water function, activated by turning the steam knob and pressing the single/double cup button, offering added versatility for various beverage preferences. For those seeking an excellent espresso coffee maker, the Cercisu machine presents a compelling choice.

The espresso machine includes a 2-in-1 portafilter with single-cup and double-cup filters, allowing you to brew one or two espresso shots effortlessly.

The detachable drip tray accommodates taller cups, providing flexibility for brewing larger quantities of coffee. The heated metal plate on top of the machine serves as a cup warmer, preheating two coffee cups simultaneously to ensure the best flavor and temperature of the coffee.

With a modern stainless steel design, this espresso maker adds a touch of sophistication to your kitchen while maintaining a compact and practical footprint.

The removable accessories facilitate easier cleaning, and the 40 oz transparent water tank, detachable and easy to fill, enables the brewing of multiple cups. Also, it comes with useful espresso machine accessories that ease the brewing process.

This espresso maker comes with an Intelligent LCD control panel. This feature allows you to effortlessly monitor the working status of the machine, offering a user-friendly interface.

With just a press of a button, you can seamlessly switch between single-cup, double-cup, and manual brewing options which makes the process of creating your favorite coffee a breeze.

The intelligent LCD control panel adds a touch of sophistication to the coffee-making experience, ensuring simplicity and precision.

The semi-automatic 2-in-1 espresso coffee machine features a professional 20-bar pressure system, comprising a 20-bar professional pump and a powerful 1350W motor.

This combination ensures optimal flavor extraction, providing a stable pressure that enhances the richness of oils in your coffee.

Whether you’re at home or in the office, this stainless steel espresso coffee machine enables you to enjoy a variety of beverages, including cappuccinos and lattes, with barista-quality results.

The inclusion of a powerful milk frothing system adds another dimension to your coffee creations. The espresso coffee machine comes with a robust steam wand capable of creating creamy and velvety microfoam milk texture, enabling you to enhance the flavor and even create latte art with ease.

This compact espresso coffee machine empowers you to effortlessly make espresso, cappuccinos, or lattes in the comfort of your home, achieving professional-level results.

With its compact design and space-saving features, this espresso coffee machine is suitable for kitchens of any size. The detachable water tank and drip tray contribute to easy cleaning, ensuring that maintenance is hassle-free.

The included accessories, such as the espresso coffee machine, detachable water tank, single-cup brewing filter, double-cup brewing filter, pod filter, spoon, and user manual, provide a comprehensive set for a seamless coffee-making experience.

One of the good things I liked about this equipment is its sleek and compact design is not only visually appealing but also user-friendly, featuring an easy-to-use control panel adorned with illuminated buttons for a touch of modernity.

The Dedica espresso machine is not just about style but it also comes with a high-performance thermoblock that operates at a 15-bar professional pressure.

This assurance of quality results every time is further enhanced by adjustable controls, allowing you to fine-tune the brewing process to match your personal taste preferences.

The combination of design and performance makes the Dedica a standout choice for those who appreciate both aesthetics and functionality.

Adding to its versatility, the Dedica features a manual frother with powerful steam, enabling you to create a rich and creamy froth for evenly textured drinks.

This customizable frothing experience ensures that your beverages are prepared just the way you like them, elevating your at-home coffee-making experience to new heights.

For those seeking an authentic barista experience at home, the Dedica espresso machine provides the tools for complete control over the brewing process.

From tamping your ground coffee to determining the final quantity, you have the power to craft your coffee exactly as you desire. This flexibility extends to the machine’s ability to brew up to 5 inches high into cups or mugs, catering to various preferences and serving sizes.

The removable water tank and drip tray contribute to straightforward cleanup, while the machine’s dishwasher-safe parts add an extra layer of convenience to the maintenance routine.

What is a Home Espresso Machine?

A home espresso maker is a specialized coffee-making device designed for brewing espresso, a concentrated coffee beverage. These machines are intended for use in residential settings which allows you to prepare espresso in the comfort of your homes.

Unlike traditional drip coffee makers, home-suitable espresso machines are equipped with features that enable the production of a strong and flavorful shot of espresso, typically with a layer of crema on top.

Types of Espresso Makers Suitable For Your House

1) Manual

They offer a hands-on and customizable brewing experience. You get complete control over essential variables such as grind size, tamping pressure, and extraction time.

While these equipment provide you the opportunity to experiment and perfect your technique, they do come with a steeper learning curve.

So if you are new to espresso brewing, you may need to practice to brew a good shot of espresso.

2) Semi-Automatic

In my 6 years of barista career, I have seen people choosing semi-automatic versions over other versions. I think one of the reasons for it is price. These espresso makers are available at low-budget pricing.

They strike a balance between manual control and automation. They automate the water flow, but users retain control over factors like grind size and tamping pressure.

This type of machine appeals to individuals who desire some level of convenience without sacrificing the ability to tailor the brewing process to their preferences.

Semi-automatic machines are well-suited for those who enjoy experimenting with different variables but prefer a more streamlined approach compared to fully manual machines.

3) Fully Automatic

They take a step further in automation by handling both water flow and temperature. These machines are user-friendly and often feature one-touch brewing options.

With programmable settings, users can customize their espresso experience to a certain extent.

These espresso brewing machines cater to those who appreciate the convenience of automation and seek a more straightforward brewing process while maintaining control over essential parameters like coffee grind and dosage.

4) Super-automatic

They take a step further in automation by handling both water flow and temperature. These machines are user-friendly and often feature one-touch brewing options. With programmable settings, users can customize their espresso experience to a certain extent.

5) Pod or Capsule Espresso Machines

These brewers have gained popularity for their simplicity and convenience. Users insert pre-packaged coffee pods or capsules which eliminates the need for measuring and grinding coffee.

They are user-friendly, with minimal mess and a wide variety of flavor options. Suitable for busy individuals or those who prefer a hassle-free brewing process, pod espresso machines provide a quick and consistent cup of espresso at the touch of a button.

6) Dual Boiler Model

Going a little deeper, we should also look at the boiler type of home espresso makers.

If I talk about dual boilers, they feature separate boilers for brewing and steaming which allows for efficient multitasking. This design enables users to transition quickly between extracting espresso and frothing milk.

With precise temperature control, these machines are favored by enthusiasts who frequently prepare milk-based drinks and demand high efficiency in their home brewing setup.

7) Single Boiler Model

They are a more budget-friendly option with a single boiler for both brewing and steaming functions.

While they may require a brief pause between brewing and steaming, they offer a more affordable entry point into the world of espresso making.

Ideal for users who primarily enjoy straight espresso or those on a budget, single boiler machines still provide a satisfying home brewing experience without compromising quality.

Wrapping up

Here, I have got you covered with the best espresso machines for home use. These machines fulfill all your homely espresso brewing needs and also include useful accessories and advanced features that make the brewing process easy as well as enjoyable.

FAQs

1) What is the recommended pump pressure for espresso machines?

Well, the minimum pressure of 9 bar is crucial for proper extraction. But in the current market, I am observing that brands are building machines that exert the pressure of more than 15 bar to 20 bar to extract rich oil from the coffee grounds. It ensures that water passes through the coffee grounds at the right rate to extract flavors and create a rich, aromatic crema.

2) Can I use pre-ground coffee in these machines?

Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee in espresso machines. However, as a barista, I will recommend you to use freshly ground coffee beans just before brewing. The freshness of the grind contributes significantly to the flavor and aroma of the espresso. If using pre-ground coffee, ensure it is of high quality and has a fine consistency suitable for espresso brewing. Also, store pre-ground coffee in an airtight container to preserve its freshness.

3) What accessories do I need for my home espresso machine?

Coffee grinder, tamper, milk frother or steam wand, espresso cups, cleaning supplies, scale, knock box, water filtration system, timer. Ensure that accessories are compatible with your specific machine and are of high quality to enhance your overall espresso-making experience.