Did you know that coffee cravings in the U.S. are at a 20-year high? And while Americans crave a delicious espresso at home, many feel intimidated by espresso machines. We understand the struggle, and that's why we put a bunch of espresso makers through their paces (think taste tests galore!).

To take on this top-secret mission, we assembled a motley crew of coffee enthusiasts — beginners who wouldn't know a puck screen from a filter basket, seasoned espresso lovers who practically live at cafes, and even some home barista wannabes — who all share a deep appreciation for the intoxicating aroma, the bold kick, and the beautiful layer of crema on top of the perfect espresso.

We won't bore you with the details of how we tested all those prosumer machines (those are trade secrets!) save for the fact that there was a LOT of coffee involved. We won't hold back on our findings though, as we're pumped to share the intel: a list of the best espresso machines for every budget and skill level. Before we unveil our top picks, let's break down the criteria we used in choosing the (pardon the pun), crema of the crop.

Table of Contents

• Cracking the Code - How Each Espresso Machine Made the Cut

• Our Best Espresso Machine Picks for 2024

  • Best Home Espresso Machine for the Budget-Conscious Beginner: Breville Bambino

  • A Step Up for Your Convenience: Breville Bambino Plus

  • The Sub-$1500 Espresso Machine for Discerning Coffee Lovers: Profitec GO

  • The Best Espresso Maker for the Sub-$2000 Price Point: Rancilio Silvia Pro X

  • The Best Espresso Machine Below the $3000 Price Point: Lelit Bianca

  • Best Super Automatic Espresso Machine: JURA Z10

  • Best Manual Espresso Machine: Flair 58

  • Best Portable Espresso Maker: Outin Nano Portable Espresso Machine

• The Grind Game: Why Your Grinder Matters

• The Perfect Espresso Machine (and Grinder) Awaits!

Cracking the Code - How Each Espresso Machine Made the Cut

We sifted through different brands and models to find the best espresso makers. Here's how we separated the good from the great (and the not-so-great) to deliver our best espresso machine picks:

• Budget. We tested professional machines across various price ranges, from beginner-friendly options to high-end models for serious coffee connoisseurs. There's a perfect match for every wallet!

  

  Thinking of opening a coffee shop someday? TheRocket Espresso R9 Automatic with its fancy multi-boiler system might be for you, but be prepared to spend some serious cash.

• Features and customization. Steam wand or milk frother? Built-in grinders? Double-walled filter baskets? Programmable settings? We evaluated all the bells and whistles to see how they affect the coffee experience and how easy they are to use.

• Machine type.We tested various types from manual machines that demand full attention to super-automatic brewers that practically make the espresso themselves. We considered the level of control users crave (are you an inner barista or push-button champion?) and the convenience factor that fits each lifestyle (and counter space!)

• Performance. We didn't just play barista dress-up. We brewed countless shots, analyzing the crema formation, the espresso itself – strength, flavor profile, and overall consistency. Only the machines that delivered consistently delicious espresso made the list.

• Practical stuff. Beyond features, we considered real-life factors. Will the machine fit our counter space? How easy is it to clean? Nobody wants a beautiful machine that's good at making coffee but is a pain to maintain.

  

• Brand and customer support.We focused on reputable companies known for building quality machines that won't leave you in the lurch.

This testing criteria helped us find the espresso machines that will make brewing barista-quality coffee a breeze for you, no matter your experience level. Without further ado, we present:

Our Best Espresso Machine Picks for 2024

Best Home Espresso Machine for the Budget-Conscious Beginner: Breville Bambino

Breville machines have user-friendly features, consistent quality, and relative affordability. Small wonder Breville's semi automatic machines are popular in the home espresso community.

The single boiler Breville Bambino, we're happy to report, isn't just hype. Though compact, this espresso maker is a heavyweight in features and performance, especially considering its price tag.

Here's what we love about the Bambino:

• Lightning-fast heat up -During our tests, the Bambino truly impressed us with its heat-up time of 3 seconds. With the Bambino, you can pull a shot before other machines even start warming up.

• User-friendly settings - We found the controls intuitive and the programmable settings a breeze to navigate. Even if you're a complete espresso newbie, you can craft barista-worthy espresso in no time.

• Countertop conqueror - The Bambino has a compact design ideal for space-saving kitchens and fits neatly in our small office kitchen counter. With the Bambino, you never have to sacrifice your espresso dreams even if you live in a tiny apartment.

• Consistent pulls - Though small, the Bambino delivered remarkably consistent performance throughout our testing. Once you dial it in (which is easier than you think!), you can expect café-worthy results at home. Sure, we asked our more experienced teammates to do the dialing in, but the process is relatively easy even for our newbies.

• Minimal cleaning and upkeep - The Bambino is a low maintenance brewer — a huge plus for busy espresso lovers who, like most of us, don't have time for complicated cleaning routines.

• Energy-efficiency - It has energy-efficient design that makes it a budget-friendly choice in the long run.

• Budget-friendly versatility -Even with its affordable price tag, this espresso maker surprised us with its versatility. We were able to steam milk for creamy cappuccinos and lattes and dispense hot water for americanos without the need for another machine.

A Few Caveats:

• The Bambino's portafilter can be cold. Running a blank shot (or three) beforehand helps preheat it for optimal extraction, as we discovered during testing.

• The automatic cleaning cycle can be a bit inconvenient at times.

• Some parts may feel less substantial compared to high-end machines. A couple of our teammates commented about the 54 mm portafilter not being the standard.

It may not have all the bells and whistles of some high-end espresso machines, but the Bambino delivers exceptional value for its price. With its user-friendly interface, lightning-fast heat-up time, and consistent performance, the Bambino is the perfect starting point for anyone who wants to explore espresso pulling without a hefty investment.

Prices start at $299.95

Breville Bambino Plus: Stepping Up Your Convenience

The Breville Bambino is fantastic for budget-minded espresso enthusiasts, but for those who crave a touch more automation, the Breville Bambino Plus offers a tempting upgrade. The key difference lies in its automatic frothing system that takes the guesswork out of crafting creamy milk drinks. It's perfect for beginners or those who value a simplified experience.

While the Breville Bambino Plus comes in at $200 more than the Bambino, it still stays below the $500 mark. So, if you envision yourself regularly indulging in milky espresso drinks, the added convenience of the automatic milk frother might be a worthwhile investment. Ultimately, the choice between the Bambino and the Bambino Plus boils down to your priorities – simplicity and affordability, or a touch more automation for a slightly steeper price tag.

The Sub-$1500 Espresso Machine for Discerning Coffee Lovers: Profitec GO

A German company established in 1985, Profitec has established itself in the espresso scene by marrying German precision with the passionate soul of Italian espresso. The result: espresso makers — such as the Profitec GO — with meticulously crafted internals for function, ease of use, and exceptional espresso.

Here's how the Profitec GO stole the show in our testing:

• Rich and flavorful espresso - The GO consistently delivered rich, full-bodied shots with exceptional texture and temperature control. We were seriously impressed by the difference compared to other machines – the espresso practically glowed with a deep, golden color.

• Temperature control - Thanks to the built-in PID system, we had complete control over brewing temperature. We were able to fine-tune each shot for maximum flavor extraction.

• Dialing in made easy - Finding the perfect grind and shot parameters wasn't a chore with the Profitec GO; rather, it was a smooth and enjoyable experience.

• Quick heat up - The Profitec GO prioritizes consistent performance with a 6-minute heat-up time. A quick flush ensures the machine reaches the ideal brewing temperature for optimal espresso extraction.

• Seamless steam transition - Switching from pulling espresso to steaming milk was a breeze. We were able to create latte art and creamy cappuccinos without extensive wait times.

  

  Back-to-back brewing - The Profitec GO recovered temperature quickly after pulling a shot, so we were able to pull consecutive shots with minimal waiting (around 20 seconds) for the machine to reach optimal temperature again.

• Rock-solid construction - Everyone in the team agreed that the Profitec GO feels like a tank. Its high-quality materials and robust design ensures that it will be a reliable companion for years to come.

• Intuitive interface -The user-friendly controls and clear layout have made the Profitec GO a pleasure to use, even for beginners on our team.

• Color options - Although we only ever tested the black model, it isn't hard to imagine how the other options would add a touch of personality and a pop of color to someone's coffee corner.

A Few Trade-offs:

• The steam wand on the Profitec GO may require a bit more practice to master compared to some machines. However, with a little experimentation, we were able to achieve excellent milk texturing for latte art or creamy cappuccinos.

• Unlike some machines, the Profitec GO doesn't have a dedicated hot water dispenser for americanos. However, we were able to dispense hot water by activating the pump through the steam wand (a minor workaround).

• The GO uses a vibratory pump, which can be noisy during operation. However, many coffee enthusiasts find this a fair trade-off for the machine's other exceptional qualities.

The Profitec GO delivers coffee shop-quality espresso with unmatched consistency, boasts impressive speed and temperature control, and is built to last. For coffee lovers seeking exceptional espresso at an attainable price point, the Profitec GO is the undisputed king of the sub-$1500 category.

Prices start at $1059.00

The Best Espresso Maker for the Sub-$2000 Price Point: Rancilio Silvia Pro X

Founded in 1927, Rancilio has been a leading manufacturer of professional coffee machines for decades, bringing cafe-quality performance to restaurants worldwide. Today, Rancilio offers a wide range of coffee equipment, from high-end commercial machines to user-friendly home espresso machines.

We got our hands on the Rancilio Silvia Pro X, a dual-boiler espresso maker — a clear favorite among espresso lovers. After pulling countless shots on it ourselves, we now understand why.

• Consistent shots -The Silvia Pro X delivered rich and flavorful espresso. We weren't all experienced at brewing espresso, but amazingly, we didn't get those dreaded sour shots.

• Soft infusion - Everyone on the team is a fan of the pre-infusion function. We feel like this is the reason behind more even extraction and great espresso.

• Programmable brew temperature -We all appreciate how the Silvia Pro X allowed us to fine-tune the temperature setting to our individual preferences and for different kinds of drinks — not just espresso!

• Less refill hassle - The internal 2-liter water reservoir is a big win for everyone. We didn't have to constantly refill the machine, which allowed us to focus on pulling those delicious shots!

• Peace of mind shut-off - We all appreciate the automatic shut-off feature. It gives peace of mind knowing the machine won't be left on accidentally.

• Modern touches on a classic design -We love that the Silvia Pro X retains the user-friendly design that Rancilio is known for, with intuitive controls and a comfortable portafilter grip. Moreover, it boasts a pressure gauge for real-time monitoring of brewing pressure and a powerful steam wand that allowed us to froth milk for luxurious lattes and cappuccinos.

Some Quirks to Consider:

• While the automatic wake-up timer is a nice feature, some of us find the nightly programming a bit inconvenient. Luckily, there's available smart plug and timer (we got ours from Amazon) to solve that problem.

• We love the functions this machine offers, but the menu system (t1 to F.08) left a few of us scratching our heads. Those cryptic codes and groupings could be more intuitive. Sure, the manual helped us figure out which code to use for which function, but it was still a hassle, nevertheless.

• For some of our team members used to smaller machines, the steam boiler heat-up time felt a tad slow. It likely has something to do with the larger 1L capacity of the boiler, but it's a minor point.

• This observation is unanimous – the pressure gauge is a bit low on the machine. It can be tricky to get a good reading at a glance.

The Rancilio Silvia Pro X is a compelling at-home espresso machine for coffee lovers seeking a sub-$2000 double boiler machine. With a brushed stainless steel finish, this solid beauty delivers exceptional espresso quality with precise temperature control and pressure.

If you want a café-quality espresso at home, the Rancilio Silvia Pro X is a machine you should seriously consider — especially if you make a lot of lattes. It offers exceptional value and will likely be a cherished appliance for years to come.

Prices start at $1990.00

Best Machine for Making Espresso Below the $3000 Price Point: Lelit Bianca

Lelit has been a trusted name in espresso for over 75 years now, bringing Italian coffee expertise to the home. Blending tradition with innovation, Lelit offers user-friendly features and high-quality construction for delicious, coffee shop-quality espresso.

The hunt for the perfect espresso maker often leads to a price tag that can make your wallet wince. We tested the Lelit Bianca and found out that with a $3000 budget, this prosumer machine might just be the golden ticket, and here's why:

• Flow control - The flow control paddle, Bianca's star feature, allows for the fine-tuning of water flow during extraction. Our resident coffee geeks spent hours perfecting their latte art and dialing in their favorite roasts, and the Bianca never missed a beat.

• Plumbing-in potential - The Bianca's removable water tank can be positioned on either side or even entirely removed for permanent plumbing. This is a major plus for high-volume coffee drinkers or those who simply prefer a sleeker countertop setup.

• Pre-infusion precision - We were impressed by the programmable pre-infusion settings of the Bianca. It allowed us to saturate the coffee grounds so we could pull more consistently flavorful shots.

• Steam powerhouse - We whipped up silky smooth lattes and creamy cappuccinos without any difficulty, thanks to the Bianca's phenomenal steam production. A couple of us who have never tried milk steaming before had fun creating microfoam for latte art.

• Configurable settings - The beauty of the Bianca lies in its ability to cater to a wide range of users. Beginners can utilize the pre-programmed settings for a hassle-free experience, while experienced baristas can delve into the world of flow control and shot profiling.

• Drip magic - The Lelit Bianca's drip tray is another thoughtful touch. It can be plumbed in for automatic drainage, a feature our team appreciated for minimizing cleanup. Plus, the cup-warming area on top features a nice design with an integrated removable tray.

• Rotary pump perfection - The Bianca boasts a rotary pump that is significantly quieter than vibration pumps found in many machines. Rotary pumps deliver more consistent water pressure, leading to better shot quality, and have a longer lifespan compared to vibration pumps.

Some Limitations:

• While not excessive, the Bianca's heat-up time of 20 or so minutes might seem long for those craving an immediate espresso fix. The good news? A smart plug solves this problem perfectly.

• Navigating the button combinations to access specific functions of the Bianca can be a bit tricky at first. Our team definitely spent some time consulting the manual to decipher the button sequences. Knowing the combinations becomes second nature once you get the hang of it, but the initial learning curve is worth noting.

• A few team members noticed that the metal used on some internal parts feels slightly thinner compared to that in higher-priced machines. However, this didn't seem to affect the machine's performance during our testing.

The Lelit Bianca offers exceptional features like flow control, programmable pre-infusion, and impressive steam power, all wrapped up in a user-friendly package. The initial heat-up time might require some planning (or a smart plug!), and the button combinations for programming can take some practice to master. But these minor drawbacks are easily outweighed by the Bianca's ability to produce café-quality espresso and cater to both novice and experienced coffee enthusiasts.

Prices start at $2999.95

Best Super Automatic Espresso Machine: JURA Z10

The quest for the perfect cup of coffee at home can lead you down many paths. For those seeking a truly luxurious and versatile coffee experience, the JURA Z10 is a machine to seriously consider. We put this high-end super automatic espresso machine to the test, and here's what our team discovered:

• Coffee creations for every craving -We got really excited with the machine's 32 specialty coffee options — it's a dream come true! The JURA Z10 machine can handle it all, from classic espresso to trendy flat whites. Plus, the aroma selection feature let us fine-tune the coffee strength to our exact preferences. We didn't have weak brews or overpowering bitters – just great coffee from bean to cup (thanks to the machine's built-in grinder) every single time.

• Automated precision - The JURA Z10's proprietary Product Recognizing Grinder (P.R.G.) automatically adjusted the coffee beans' grind size based on our chosen drink. We didn't really fiddle with settings, since the Z10 gave us perfectly ground coffee for every drink — from a bold espresso to a delicate Americano.

• Refreshing cold brews -The Z10's Cold Extraction Process uses cold water and a coarser grind to create genuine cold brew, so we got naturally sweet and refreshing cold coffee beverages that burst with the coffee's fruity notes.

• Built to last -High-quality materials and meticulous engineering are evident in every detail of the Z10, from the sleek aluminum body to the user-friendly control panel. We're pretty confident this machine will be a kitchen centerpiece for years to come.

• Stress-free maintenance - We loved how the Z10 takes the guesswork out of maintenance. The machine guides you through cleaning routines, descaling cycles, and hygiene procedures, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

• Detailed aesthetics -The Z10 is a looker! The curved aluminum front panel and the wave-designed water tank showcase JURA's commitment to both beauty and functionality. Even small details like the filter casing exude a sense of quality and thoughtful design.

Things to Consider:

• Like most super automatic machines, the Z10 comes with a premium price tag. For the price, it's disappointing that this coffee maker doesn't include a milk container and that you have to pay an extra $50 for such a crucial accessory.

• The manual is great at explaining maintenance procedures, but it falls short on everyday use guidance. The many options and the lack of clear instructions can be overwhelming for new users. (Pro-tip: Watch a lot YouTube tutorials and be patient; making great coffee on the Z10 requires a lot of trial-and-error)

• The J.O.E. companion app feels a bit clunky. We wish that we could do remote brewing or schedule drinks with the app, but hey, nothing is perfect. Also, we were surprised at the lack of scheduling options for automated cleaning cycles, something we expect from a high-end machine with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

• The touch screen is responsive and fast, but the confusing layout could be improved to avoid accidental selections and wasted coffee. The "cancel" button is unreliable, as it failed to stop the brewing process. Moreover, the lack of confirmation prompts after selecting a drink on the main screen leads to unintentional brewing.

For coffee enthusiasts who crave variety and top-notch coffee quality, the JURA Z10 is a machine with undeniable appeal. However, the hefty price tag and some user interface quirks might give some pause. While the Z10 delivers a convenient and delicious coffee experience overall, it's important to consider the learning curve involved.

Prices start at $3999.00

Best Manual Espresso Machine: Flair 58

Most espresso makers churn out delicious coffee with a push of a button. Flair, however, has taken a refreshing approach: a focus on manual brewing and user control. This approach has made Flair Espresso a favorite among coffee aficionados who crave the satisfaction of a hands-on approach and the ability to create the perfect shot.

Everyone got excited knowing we would get our hands on the Flair 58. Having tested other manual espresso machines, this particular model generated a special buzz within our team.

Here's why the Flair 58 serves a spot in our list:

• Delicious shots one press at a time -Even with less-than-perfect beans, our team was able to coax out surprisingly delicious results. Using the included pressure gauge, we were able to customize pressure profiles and pre-infusion times and fine-tune our espressos to match the specific beans we were using.

• Complete control -The Flair 58's lever was amazingly easy to use, and we love it! A small pressure adjustment press makes a big difference, perfect for fine-tuning each shot. This is great for coffee lovers who enjoy the hands-on brewing experience.

• Simple yet intuitive design - The all-stainless steel build is easy to clean and maintain, with no bulky boilers or hidden nooks for coffee grounds to accumulate. Plus, the lack of a boiler means no waiting for lengthy heat-up times – you can be enjoying a shot of espresso in a matter of minutes (just be ready with that kettle of hot to boiling water!)

Things to Keep in Mind:

• The Flair 58 lets you be the barista boss, but it takes practice. Unlike some automatic machines, it requires more effort and skill to pull a great shot. Beginners might get discouraged at first, but don't blame the machine! Perfect espresso depends on your grind, technique, and grinder quality.

• The Flair 58 requires extra gear like a kettle and grinder (milk frother sold separately). Making espresso takes longer than with automatic machines, and you might need a second press for a full shot. It's also a workout for your arms and needs more counter space than expected.

• Pulling consistent shots with the Flair 58 takes practice. You'll be in charge of temperature, water flow, and other details that automatic machines handle. This level of control is great for coffee enthusiasts, but can be overwhelming for those who just want a quick coffee fix.

The Flair 58's affordability makes it an attractive entry point into the world of high-quality manual espresso brewing. However, the steeper learning curve, time commitment, and need for additional equipment should be considered before taking the plunge.

If you're a patient and detail-oriented coffee enthusiast seeking an exceptional espresso experience and the satisfaction of hands-on brewing, the Flair 58 is a good espresso machine that rewards dedication with delicious results.

Prices start at $580.00

Best Portable Espresso Maker: Nano Portable Espresso Machine

On its mission to redefine the coffee experience, Outin aims to bring the joy of espresso to every corner of the globe. Their innovative approach to portable brewing has captured the attention of coffee lovers who seek convenience without sacrificing taste.

We put the Outin's flagship product — the Outin Nano — to the test to see if it could truly deliver espresso on the go, and we're stoked to share what we discovered:

• Espresso on the go - We approached the Outin Nano with a healthy dose of skepticism, given its portable nature. But this little machine exceeded our expectations in terms of espresso quality. It produced crema we weren't expecting, and the overall espresso quality was impressive. Of course it didn't hurt that we went with the optional basket upgrade.

• Built to last - The machine itself is well-constructed with no flimsy parts and good quality seals. It feels durable and ready for outdoor adventures.

• Simple and convenient - It's true all-in-one machine. Just add water, ground coffee (we recommend 15 grams), and you're ready to brew. The built-in heater eliminates the need for external heat sources.

• Easy cleaning - While not the dream of a self-expelling puck, cleaning the Outin Nano is still a breeze. We just popped out the grind cup and rinsed it off.

• Portable powerhouse: The compact design and built-in battery make it perfect for travel. The container is well-sealed to prevent leaks, and it's IPX6 certified for water resistance.

• Quick and effortless -Brewing is fast and requires minimal effort. It's perfect for those mornings when you need a quick caffeine fix.

• Bonus pod compatibility - Our less than enthusiastic members enjoyed the Nano's flexibility. They used Nespresso pods which are fully compatible with the brewer. Of course, we recommend fresh grounds for the best espresso experience.

A Few Downsides:

• Despite its size, the Outin Nano packs a punch in the weight department. The hefty 7500mAh battery adds significant weight, making it less ideal for backpacking trips.

• The battery life isn't so robust and has a recharge time of around 2-3 hours. Additionally, it can't be used while plugged in, which we find to be a big bummer.
  We found a workaround though, and used preheated water instead of cold. We got more cups in a single charge this way!

• The wet puck from the brewing process can be a bit messy to deal with compared to some machines.

• We did mostly dark roasts, as the machine does not seem to reach optimal temperature for lighter roasts.

While the weight and battery life might be a concern for some, its portability, ease of use, and impressive espresso quality make it a compelling option. If you primarily need a small, convenient machine for quick espresso shots or a cup or two at a time, the Outin Nano is definitely worth considering.

Prices start at $149.99

The Grind Game: Why Your Grinder Matters

Before you get carried away by the features of the espresso machines we presented, remember not to overlook a crucial element: the coffee grinder. Even the most top-of-the-line espresso machine can't work its magic without quality standalone grinders.

We can't stress this enough: investing in a quality grinder is just as important as choosing the right espresso machine. Think of it this way: a good grinder is like a skilled barista who precisely preps the grounds for optimal espresso extraction.

Consistent grind size ensures even extraction, resulting in a balanced and delicious espresso. Plus, a dedicated grinder lets you experiment with different grinds for your favorite recipes.

The Perfect Espresso Machine (and Grinder) Awaits!

There's no denying it — brewing barista-quality espresso at home can feel like discovering a secret superpower. With the right machine, you can transform coffee beans into a delicious masterpiece, whether it's a classic shot or a trendy latte creation.

Our exploration offered a glimpse into some fantastic options, but it's not exhaustive. We encourage you to do your research, try out espresso machines in person, and determine the features most important to you. After all, the perfect espresso experience is a personal journey.

Ready to grind and pull your way to espresso perfection? Let the brewing begin!