Home espresso machines are becoming more popular as more people want to enjoy café-quality coffee at home. These machines bring the luxury of espresso, cappuccino, and latte right to your kitchen without needing to leave the house.

Picking the right home espresso machine can feel like a daunting task with so many models and features to choose from. It’s important to know what you’re looking for and what each machine offers.

There are several criteria to keep in mind when selecting an espresso machine. Factors like ease of use, durability, design, and built-in grinders are just a few elements to consider. It’s all about finding the right balance that suits your coffee preferences and lifestyle. So, let’s dive into the top 10 home espresso machines that stand out in today’s market.

Top 10 Home Espresso Machines

1. Gemilai CRM3609 Home Espresso Machine

The Gemilai CRM3609 Home Espresso Machine is a semi-automatic espresso machine that offers excellent value for money, especially for beginners. Despite its affordability, it delivers a consistent, rich espresso with a 20-bar pressure system.

Key Features:

• 20-bar pressure system for excellent espresso extraction.
• Steam wand for frothing milk, making it easy to prepare cappuccinos or lattes.
• Compact and lightweight design that fits well in small kitchens.

Pros:

• Affordable: One of the most budget-friendly options for semi-automatic espresso machines.
• User-friendly: Easy to operate, making it suitable for beginners.
• Compact: Perfect for kitchens with limited counter space.

Cons:

• No built-in grinder: You’ll need to purchase a grinder separately.
• Limited control: Lacks advanced settings for experienced users.

The Gemilai CRM3609 Espresso Machine is an excellent entry-level espresso machine for beginners who are looking for an affordable option without compromising on espresso quality.

2. HiBREW 20Bar Semi Automatic Espresso Machine H10A

The HiBREW 20-Bar Semi Automatic Espresso Machine H10A delivers high-quality espresso at an affordable price, offering a 20-bar pressure system and a sleek, stainless steel design.

Key Features:

• 20-bar pressure for a rich crema and robust flavor.
• Stainless steel design, offering durability and style.
• Manual steam wand for frothing milk.

Pros:

• Affordable: Offers premium features at a budget-friendly price.
• Durable build: Made with stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
• Easy to use: Simple controls make it a good choice for beginners.

Cons:

• No grinder included: You will need to invest in a separate grinder.
• Basic steam wand: Not as powerful as more advanced models for frothing milk.

The HiBREW 20-Bar Semi Automatic Espresso Machine H10A is a solid option for budget-conscious buyers who want a machine that offers good performance without breaking the bank.

3. HiBREW Barista Pro H7 Espresso Machine w/ Built-In Grinder

For more advanced users, the HiBREW Barista Pro H7 Espresso Machine is a high-end machine designed for home baristas who want to take their coffee-making skills to the next level. It features a dual boiler system that allows you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously.

Key Features:

• Dual boilers for simultaneous brewing and frothing.
• 20-bar pressure pump for strong espresso extraction.
• PID temperature control for consistent brewing.

Pros:

• Dual boiler system: Enables you to brew espresso and steam milk at the same time, which saves time and improves workflow.
• Advanced temperature control: PID system ensures stable temperature during extraction.
• High pressure: Ensures a rich, crema-topped espresso.

Cons:

• Price: One of the more expensive options on this list.
• Bulky design: Takes up significant counter space.

The HiBREW Dual Boiler System Barista Pro H7 is ideal for serious home baristas looking for professional-grade features and performance.

4. Cafelffe Barista Pro Espresso Machine With Grinder MK-608

The Cafelffe Barista Pro Espresso Machine is another high-performance espresso machine that offers a dual boiler system. Like its HiBREW counterpart, it allows you to brew and steam simultaneously for a more efficient workflow.

Key Features:

• Dual boilers for simultaneous brewing and steaming.
• Stainless steel exterior, offering durability and a sleek appearance.
• Commercial-grade steam wand for excellent frothing.

Pros:

• Fast brewing and frothing: Thanks to the dual boilers.
• Solid build quality: Stainless steel design ensures durability.
• Precise temperature control: Produces consistently good espresso.

Cons:

• Expensive: Comes with a higher price tag.
• Takes up counter space: Large size may not fit smaller kitchens.

If you’re looking for professional features in a home machine, the Cafelffe Dual Boiler System Barista Pro is a great option, but be prepared for the price and size.

5. Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine

The Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine is as much a style statement as it is a high-performing espresso maker. Known for its retro design, it brings a combination of aesthetics and functionality to your kitchen.

Key Features:

• 15-bar pressure pump for smooth espresso extraction.
• Thermoblock heating system for quick warm-up.
• Stylish retro design that fits into any kitchen decor.

Pros:

• Stylish appearance: The retro design is perfect for those who value aesthetics.
• Compact: Fits well in small kitchens.
• Quick heat-up time: The Thermoblock system ensures fast heating.

Cons:

• No built-in grinder: Requires an external grinder.
• Pricier for the features: You’re paying a premium for the design rather than additional features.

The Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine is perfect for those who want style without sacrificing performance. It’s a great fit for design-conscious users who love their coffee with a side of vintage flair.

6. Baumann Living Professional Espresso Machine With Grinder

The Baumann Living Professional Espresso Machine With Grinder offers great value for its built-in grinder and premium features. It’s a full-fledged coffee maker ideal for users who want freshly ground coffee without buying a separate grinder.

Key Features:

• Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh coffee grounds.
• 20-bar pressure pump for rich crema and deep flavor.
• Steam wand for frothing milk.

Pros:

• Built-in grinder: Saves the need for an additional grinder.
• Easy-to-use: Designed with both beginners and intermediate users in mind.
• High pressure: Delivers excellent espresso shots.

Cons:

• Takes time to master: May require practice to get the most out of the machine.
• Mid-range price: Not the most budget-friendly option, but great value for the features.

The Baumann Living Professional Espresso Machine With Grinder is an all-in-one option for those who want convenience and quality in one machine. Check out Baumann Living Professional Espresso Machine with Grinder: A Full Review.

7. Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Maker

The Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Maker is a compact yet powerful machine. It’s known for its incredibly fast heat-up time, making it a perfect option for espresso lovers who are always on the go.

Key Features:

• ThermoJet heating system heats up in just 3 seconds.
• 19-bar pressure for perfect espresso extraction.
• Automatic milk frothing system with adjustable temperature settings.

Pros:

• Fast heating: Perfect for busy mornings.
• Compact size: Ideal for small kitchens.
• High-quality milk frothing: Great for making lattes and cappuccinos.

Cons:

• No built-in grinder: You’ll need to buy one separately.
• Pricey for its size: Slightly expensive given its compact nature.

The Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Maker is perfect for those who need speed and efficiency without compromising on coffee quality.

8. Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine

The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is one of the best all-in-one espresso machines. It includes a built-in conical burr grinder and offers extensive customization for every cup, making it a top pick for home baristas.

Key Features:

• Built-in conical burr grinder for fresh coffee grounds.
• 15-bar Italian pump for rich espresso extraction.
• Customizable grind size and dose control.

Pros:

• Convenient all-in-one design: No need for an external grinder.
• Customizable settings: Gives you control over every aspect of brewing.
• Excellent espresso quality: Provides café-quality results.

Cons:

• Large footprint: Takes up a lot of counter space.
• Learning curve: Requires practice to master the controls.

The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is the ultimate choice for those looking for a machine that combines a grinder and high-performance espresso capabilities. Check out our in-depth Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine Review.

9. DeLonghi Pump Espresso Machine – Prestigio EC9355.M

The DeLonghi Pump Espresso Machine – Prestigio EC9355.M is a high-end espresso machine designed for serious coffee lovers who appreciate professional-level performance at home. This model is built for convenience and quality, offering advanced features such as automatic milk frothing and precise temperature control.

Key Features:

• 15-bar pressure pump for optimal espresso extraction.
• Automatic milk frother that creates perfect froth for cappuccinos and lattes.
• Stainless steel construction for durability and a sleek appearance.

Pros:

• Exceptional frothing system: Perfect for those who love milk-based drinks.
• Fast heat-up time thanks to Thermoblock technology.
• High-quality espresso extraction.

Cons:

• No built-in grinder: You will need to purchase a separate grinder for fresh beans.
• Premium price: More expensive compared to other models in the same category.

The DeLonghi Prestigio EC9355.M is a luxurious choice for coffee aficionados who enjoy a rich, café-quality experience at home. Its automatic milk frothing feature and consistent espresso extraction make it a top-tier option for those willing to invest in quality.

10. DeLonghi Pump Espresso Maker – ECP35.31

The DeLonghi Pump Espresso Maker – ECP35.31 is a budget-friendly option from DeLonghi’s line of espresso machines. It’s an ideal machine for beginners who are new to the espresso world but still want to enjoy a decent espresso without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

• 15-bar pressure system for optimal brewing and espresso extraction.
• Compact design that easily fits into small kitchens.
• Manual milk frother to create foam for cappuccinos and lattes.
• Removable water tank for easy cleaning and refilling.

Pros:

• Affordable price: Excellent value for an entry-level machine.
• Compact and portable: Doesn’t take up much counter space.
• Easy to use: Great for beginners who want simple, no-frills operation.

Cons:

• No built-in grinder: A separate grinder will be needed for fresh coffee grounds.
• Limited features: Lacks advanced settings found in higher-end machines.
• Manual frothing: The steam wand is less powerful, requiring some skill to froth milk.

The DeLonghi Pump Espresso Machine ECP 35.31 is a fantastic option for those just starting with home espresso machines. It provides good performance at an affordable price and is ideal for espresso lovers with limited space and budget.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Espresso Machine

Built-in Grinder vs. Separate Grinder: When looking at espresso machines, one of the key decisions is whether to opt for a built-in grinder or buy a separate one. Machines like the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine come with a built-in grinder, providing convenience and a streamlined process. In contrast, separate grinders can offer more flexibility and possibly better grind quality, but they require more counter space and an additional purchase.

Budget Considerations: Your budget will significantly influence your options. High-end machines come with more features, better durability, and often a better coffee experience. However, there are budget-friendly options like the DeLonghi Pump Espresso Maker – ECP 35.31 that still make a great cup of coffee without breaking the bank.

Counter Space: Espresso machines come in various sizes. If you have limited kitchen space, compact models like the Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine are worth considering. They provide excellent performance without occupying too much counter space.

Design and Aesthetics: The visual appeal of an espresso machine might be important. Machines like the Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine stand out not just for their performance but also for their stylish appearance. Choosing a machine that complements your kitchen décor can enhance the whole coffee-making experience.

Overall Performance: Evaluating an espresso machine’s performance involves considering reliability, ease of use, and durability. Machines with features like dual boilers, pressure indicators, and sleek designs generally offer better performance and more consistent coffee results.

Best Home Espresso Machines by Category

Best machine with built-in grinder:

The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is the clear winner here. With a built-in conical burr grinder, you can enjoy freshly ground coffee for every shot, which enhances the flavor and aroma. For those who don’t already own a grinder, this machine offers great convenience. The Baumann Living Professional Espresso Machine also deserves a mention for offering convenience at a more affordable price.

Best budget machine:

The DeLonghi Pump Espresso Maker – ECP35.31 offers great value for those looking to enjoy espresso without a hefty price tag. It’s efficient and reliable, ensuring good quality without breaking the bank.

Best machine for limited counter space:

The Breville Bambino Plus Espresso Machine shines in terms of compactness. Despite its small size, it packs a punch with fast heat-up time and great espresso quality, making it perfect for tight kitchens.

Best machine for appearance:

The Smeg Espresso Coffee Machine is an absolute winner when it comes to design. Its retro aesthetics and range of color options make it a great choice for style-conscious coffee lovers.

Best machine overall:

The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine takes the crown for best overall espresso machine. With its built-in grinder, customizable settings, and excellent performance, it offers everything a home barista needs to craft the perfect cup.

Conclusion

Choosing the right home espresso machine depends on your personal preferences, space, and budget. Whether you’re looking for an affordable machine like the DeLonghi Pump Espresso Maker – ECP35.31 or a high-performance model like the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, there’s a perfect espresso machine out there for you. Each machine on this list offers something unique, ensuring that every coffee lover can find their ideal brewing companion.