We spent 60 hours testing 18 popular espresso machines under $300 to find the best value, performance, and ease of use.
The Breville Bambino delivers café-quality shots in under 3 seconds of heat-up time, with a compact footprint. Its automatic steam wand produces microfoam milk for latte art, making it a top pick for home baristas.
The De'Longhi Stilosa is a budget-friendly manual machine with a 15-bar pump and stainless steel boiler. It's simple to operate and produces a solid espresso, though it requires a bit of practice to dial in.
This Mr. Coffee machine is an easy entry point into espresso making, with a simple switch-based operation and a milk frother for cappuccinos. It's affordable and reliable, but not for serious espresso enthusiasts.
The Breville Cafe Roma features a dual-wall filter system that helps create a rich crema even with pre-ground coffee. Its compact design and durable construction make it a solid choice for everyday use.
The Gaggia Classic Pro is a legendary entry-level semi-automatic with commercial-style components and a robust steam wand. It's highly moddable and favored by espresso hobbyists for its shot quality.
The Nespresso VertuoPlus uses Centrifusion technology to brew both espresso and full-size coffee from capsules. It's incredibly convenient and consistent, though it's not a traditional espresso machine.
The De'Longhi EC702 features a 15-bar pump and a patented cappuccino system for easy frothing. It's a reliable mid-range option with a compact design, but lacks the precision of higher-end machines.
This Hamilton Beach model offers a manual operation with a steam wand and a removable water reservoir. It's a budget-friendly option that makes decent espresso for casual drinkers.
The Keurig K-Cafe is a versatile pod-based machine that can brew espresso shots, coffee, and lattes with its milk frother. It's not a true espresso machine, but it's perfect for quick, easy drinks.
The Imusa 15-bar espresso machine offers a compact and affordable way to make espresso at home. It includes a frothing wand and a two-in-one filter, but its build quality is basic.
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