Are you the one whose senses does not wake up in the morning until the aroma of the fresh coffee hits his nostrils? Absolutely no denial, we are mostly from that group. A push is always somewhere required in our daily routine which is frequently done by a shot of espresso or a cup of coffee sometimes more than one time a day. But we never have experienced a standing barista holding a cup of coffee beside our bed waiting for us to wake up, unless you are a billionaire. However, things are not that complicated as it might seem, you don’t always need to call Starbucks or to wait at a coffee shop when you can bring your own barista at home by getting one of the best espresso machines for your prestigious kitchen, though not in a human form.
Being a coffee lover, longing for your favorite cup of coffee or latte is not a crime but killing this desire is indeed a crime. However, if you want to buy a coffee maker or espresso machine, your budget is perhaps the one to dominate choice first if not the type of the espresso machine. Though talking about the type, in this guide we have concentrated mainly on semi automatic espresso machines. In particular, if your budget makes more sense to you then here is the affordable list according to your liking:
Best espresso machine under 2000
Best espresso machine under 1000
Best espresso machine under 800
Best espresso machine under 700
Best espresso machines under 600
Best espresso machine under 500
Best espresso machine under 400
Best espresso machine under 300
Best espresso machine under 200
Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Espresso Machines
What is a dual boiler espresso machine?
There are two boilers with different purposes installed, mainly called double boiler or dual boiler espresso machine. One is for steam and other is for brewing, both could be used simultaneously. Steam boiler is responsible for milk frothing and another one is used for brewing simply. The main advantage of this type is, you can make espresso back to back without waiting for another heat exchange. As a result, it saves your time. Thus, these are more effective in busy coffee shops or restaurants, where continuous espresso orders are prepared.
What is a pod espresso machine? Or What is a capsule espresso machine?
Pod espresso machines or capsule espresso machines, both are the same type with only a difference of coffee’s way of insertion into the machine. These are single serve coffee makers, which reduced the hassle of grinding, spooning and frothing of espresso to a great extent. Whether it’s a pod or a capsule, both of them are a composed form of grounded coffee just like a tea bag, with a requirement of only inserting these pods or capsules and selecting the type of drink you want to prepare, the rest of the work leaves for the machine.
What is a stove top espresso machine? Or What is a moka coffee maker?
Stove top espresso machine is basically called a moka coffee maker, although they are the different names for the same thing, with an ability to prepare coffee on the stove just like boiling water. But the type of drink prepared can be more likely to be called coffee than espresso. Because there is a significant difference that could be noticed in an espresso made in an espresso machine and in a coffee made in a moka pot. Although there are now emerging many brands, bringing their stove top espresso machines, to be very close to the taste of espresso. Therefore the term “stove top espresso machine” is somehow justified to the latest and modern versions only.
What is a commercial espresso machine?
Commercial espresso machines are no different than any standard espresso maker, but since there are more customers waiting at their tables to get served and the cafe is already bustling, then here is a need for a commercial espresso maker. This type of espresso machine is capable of brewing a number of espresso and drinks at a time, they are more reliable and durable units as compared to one you have on the counter of your kitchen. They are strong and require more space as well, so do their taste too, hence a quick way to tackle orders without wasting time.
What are the types of espresso machines available in the market?
There are four basic types of espresso machines:
- Manual espresso machine
- Semi-automatic espresso machine
- Automatic espresso machine
- Super automatic machine
What is a manual espresso machine?
This type of espresso machine gives full authority to the user to prepare his espresso just according to his taste and preferences. Every step in the preparation is manually handled which results in a great espresso taste as compared to the espresso made in automatic or semi automatic machines. However, one thing must be kept in mind: this machine requires expertise to make espresso, few attempts wouldn’t be enough to get the best espresso unless you have learned every step thoroughly.
What is a semi automatic espresso machine?
This type is the most demanding of today, they are not so expensive yet not to be found under the cheaper hood, but gives an affordable benchmark for all. In semi automatic espresso machines, as its name said; a mix of automatic and user handling is required. This does not result in the mess you will find in manual espresso, but a tidy process takes place to prepare the perfect espresso via an electric pump.
What is an automatic espresso machine?
Other than electric pumps, in this type of espresso maker, water quantity and time of brew is also opted out for the user, which says much of the control goes to the machine instead. There is a wide variety of these types of machines with price tags that varies too in the market. They are responsible for great espresso taste and are summed up as easy to use espresso machines today.
What is a super automatic espresso machine?
Super automatic espresso machines have snatched all the controls from the user and make it extremely simple as pressing a button to getting the favorite shot in the end. They are the easiest form of making espresso, ideal for busy people who don’t give much of a thought on the finished drink but are more concerned for the effort required. These units have electronic displays with nice detail and programmable settings that are more flexible in terms of options as compared to other espresso machines, along with built-in grinders and milk frothers or steam wands.
List of Best Espresso Machines of 2022
- Gaggia Babila Stainless Steel – Best commercial espresso machine
- De’Longhi La Specialista dual boiler – Best dual boiler coffee machine
- Gaggia Velasca – Best coffee and espresso maker combo
- De’Longhi ESAM04110S – Best automatic espresso machine
- Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch – Best Italian espresso machine
- Philips 3200 Fully Automatic – Best fully automatic espresso machine
- Breville Bambino Plus Espresso BES500BSS – Best stainless steel espresso maker
- Nespresso De’Longhi – Best smart espresso machine
- Cuisinart EM-100 – Best home espresso machine
- Keurig K-Cafe Coffee Maker – Best pod espresso machine
Best Espresso Machines 2022 Reviews
1. Gaggia Babila – Best Super Automatic Espresso Machine
Machine type: super automatic | Bar pressure: 15 bar | Water tank capacity: 50.7 ounce | Built-in grinder: Yes | Boiler: Dual | Brewing options: 8 | Weight: 28.7 lbs | Size height*width* depth: 14.17*9.64*16.53
Reasons to buy
- Automatic (or manual both) milk frother
- Built-in ceramic burr grinder with 15 grind settings
- Automatic cleaning of milk carafe
- Aqua clean water filter
- 10 ounce bean hopper
Reasons to avoid
- Mediocre milk frothing
Super automatic espresso machines are not something which could be exchanged against little money, but this is an expensive unit whichever the brand is, if only it is really a super automatic. The same goes for Gaggia Babila, a king of all, the best one touch coffee machine which is indeed a master of perfection. This is a stainless steel espresso machine with 8 programmable settings including cappuccino, latte, flat white and macchiato with a single touch. It consists of an automatic milk frother which could be used manually too for your liking. Since the frothing is not outstanding and the machine is a bit unable to do this only job effectively, the user is allowed to froth it just the exact way he desires.
Gaggia Babila has a burr grinder with 15 grinding settings to maintain the consistency that suffices the type of drink you like to dispense. Not only this, but the water temperature is also adjustable in case you don’t get the taste of espresso shot you are tempted for. This means, although it is a super automatic espresso, there are plenty of manual settings waiting for you which is a good part in the very favor of this machine. Further speaking of cleaning convenience, this machine reminds the user when it needs to be cleaned, though after every drink prepared the carafe automatically gets clean. Moreover, the entire brew compartment is removable and washable.
If worried about whether your favorite mug can be placed under it or not, we say thanks to the adjustable dispenser, it allows the height from 3 inch to 6 inch tall mugs and cups to adjust. Putting last words, this is the best bean to cup espresso machine with few preferable changes if not like the flavor produced from the default settings. A durable and attractive long haul espresso and coffee maker of the year.
2. Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch – Best coffee machine with grinder and frother
Machine type: Automatic | Bar pressure: none | Water tank capacity: 67 ounce | Built-in grinder: integrated conical burr grinder | Boiler: yes | Brewing options: 8 | Weight: 25.6 lbs | Size height*width* depth: 16*15.5*12.7
Reasons to buy
- A unit full of authority and customisation of the beverages
- A balanced taste in every cup
- Auto steam wand and manual frothing
- Fully automatic swipe and touch display
- Consistent grinding with silent conical burr grinder
Reasons to avoid
- Not optimal temperature for the coffee
Here we have another from super automatic best espresso machines for home, cafe and office. This is the simplified version of bean to cup coffee maker with great endurance and flexibility. Breville Barista Touch Espresso Maker has the most intuitive display one touch accessible and easy to handle the coffee machine with grinder and steamer. Never mind my repetition of the words, the most intriguing part of this machine is the touch display, I again told you, this feature is something very uncommon and highly responsive to the commands. With 5 options you can make a latte, cappuccino, espresso, flat white, Americano and 8 ways to customize them as per your choice. You can even save your settings to avoid the effort for the next drink later.
Breville Barista Touch Espresso Maker takes only 3 seconds to dispense in your mug after making grind settings, type of the drink and strength of the drink. This rapid response is ideal for the number of cups waiting in the row to get prepared. You don’t need to guess what will be the next step but the system itself leads you to get the perfect shot from starting till the end. Further, the automatic milk frothing is another great feature which is done like an expert, the texture and micro foaming is so identical to the professionals, anyone could hardly believe its prepared at home and not ordered from starbucks.
This machine consists of automatic steam wand and frothing, enhancing the aroma and texture of the coffee the way you like to order in your local coffee shop. Needless to say, this coffee and espresso maker is fully equipped with all the necessary details required to bring out your own barista at home at any time. However, there is only one exception that comes in our way and results to be led down. That is the inconsistency of the hot temperature even after the setting. Even after the tweaking of the temperature settings, the finished drink is far from “hot served”, so the taste is also affected in this way.
3. De’Longhi La Specialista EC9335M – Best dual boiler espresso machine
Machine type: Semi automatic | Bar pressure: 19 bar | Water tank capacity: 2 liters | Built-in grinder: sensor integrated grinder | Boiler: dual | Weight: 29.7 lbs | Size height*width* depth: 14.48*12.48*13.98
Reasons to buy
- Integrated smart sensor coffee grinder, temper and steam wand
- Professional latte preparation with automatic and manual frothing
- Perfect extraction with temperature control
- Dual heating system (dual boiler)
- Advanced self cleaning technology
Reasons to avoid
- The drink settings will be changed only after preparing five drinks at least
De’Longhi La Specialista EC9335M is another best bean to cup latte machine with manual frothing which can be automatic if you don’t want to do it by yourself. If you longed for the crafted art, micro foaming or for flat for the perfect latte or cappuccino, then this advanced frother is nice to get in this unit. Then there is the dual boiler, which ensures to capture the order and serve in no time without making it delay. One is to brew and the other is ready for steaming, that’s how your drinks don’t have to rest aside for their turn. The feature that deserves to be marveled on is that this machine is open for all types of beverages and not just reserved for espresso to latte but capable of preparing any drink with very efficacy, including cafe americano, cafe crema, Australian lungo and many others.
Another great thing added is its smart sensor grinding via burr grinder, maintaining the consistency and freshness of the extraction which is poured into your drink at the very right level. This sensor grinding makes sure you never run out of beans while preparing your shots. Then there is an integrated smart tamping station which makes sure the tamping is done in the most righteous way and eliminates the failure in case of using it by any non-professional. Talking about the cup height it facilitates, its drip tray is cup friendly that allows bigger cups too.
A smooth going operation of almost any type of drink is pretty obvious, as far as cleaning is concerned, the machine is equipped with smart cleaning technology. Its bean hopper, the water tank and the drip tray is removable and washable, although the other parts can be rinsed by passing hot water which will take away any coffee residue in the way just like preparing a drink in real. There is a descaling mode as well, automatically indicated by a light when there is a need to descale, so the user is free from this tension too.
4. De’Longhi ESAM04110S – Best automatic coffee machine
Machine type: Automatic | Bar pressure: 15 | Water tank capacity: 1.8 liters | Built-in grinder: integrated burr grinder | Boiler: Yes | Weight: 20.9 lbs | Size height*width* depth: 19.3*13.6*15.7
Reasons to buy
- Removable drip tray, infuser and water reservoir
- Manual steam wand for perfection
- Compact design highly recommended for home and office cabin
- 13 grind settings and bypass doser
- Sustainable temperature for number of cups in a row without await
Reasons to avoid
- Removable parts are not supportive to dishwasher
- Lack of cup warmer
In case of feeling difficult to operate automatic espresso makers, or you find them a little tricky to deal with bean to cup coffee machines due to so many options, levers or mechanisms displayed on them, then this simple yet compact decent looking from best espresso machines for home may fit your needs. The way it preserved the operations for the user and the handling to dispense out the perfect cappuccino is fortunately so simple at the same time very authoritative for the user just to maintain the level of exact taste he required from freshly grounded coffee or espresso each time. The single thermoblock persists the temperature no matter how many cups you prepare and the type of drink you need, however maintain the same great taste of a professional barista like, without putting you to wait for another shot.
There are not many complex details you may find difficult to opt, but simple programmable settings allow you to opt for the type of beverage you want to prepare, for instance, espresso (singledouble), latte, cappuccino, Americano and hot water. Then there is temperature setting, 13 grind settings and cup size (otherwise leave the options as default) rest is handed over to the machine, as a result you get the best coffee texture and taste in the end. Further, speaking of the frother, you can use the manual frothing of the milk to get the rich foam or want to customize it as per preferences. Everything is in your favor from starting till the end of the operation.
It has 7.1 ounce bean hopper accessible from the top of the machine, and 1.8 liter water tank which is removable and accessible from the front of the machine. Very easy going cleaning session and as far as descaling is required, the machine will itself alert the user to descale whenever there is a need. In short, the overall performance is great with adjusting knob programmable settings, it is user friendly without a fuss and an attractive appliance which deserves to be on your kitchen counter.
5. Gaggia Velasca Automatic Machine – Best coffee and espresso maker
Machine type: Super automatic | Water tank capacity: 1.5 liters | Built-in grinder: ceramic burr grinder | Boiler: single | Brewing options: multiple | Weight: 17.6 lbs | Size height*width* depth: 10.5*10.25*17
Reasons to buy
- Automatic cleaning and descaling
- Perfect for beginners
- Perfect for latte and cappuccino
- 5 brew setting, 10 grind settings and bypass doser for pre ground coffee
- Recommended for home use and perfect for low hanging cabinets
Reasons to avoid
- Not so great in taste for espresso but still acceptable with the affordable price tag
Gaggia Velasca is the bean to cup super automatic espresso machine with front loader water reservoir instead of filling from the top. The exterior of the unit is fully made up of plastic with the simplest yet attractive mode of display. This is not highly fascinating like most of the super automatic coffee makers you have witnessed in the market, but with a budget friendly prestige machine which is more certainly to be used for home use. Yes, if you are looking for an espresso maker to serve at a coffee shop or busy restaurant, then this coffee maker is not for you.
Moving towards the features, this is another best espresso machine with adequate functionalities to serve you. Tune-up the grind setting up to 10 digits in order to get coarser, consistent or fine ground as per preference and type of drink. Along with it, there is a bypass doser for pre grounded coffee and also do pre infusion for an effective extraction of the grounded coffee. Then there is a pannarello auto froth steam wand which will do frothing of the milk, that thick foaming just the way you have experienced in a cafe.
The dispensing sprout is a little disappointing in terms of placing tall mugs but good for small cups. The LED display is clear with obvious options and neat operations without going into complexities. Apart from this, Gaggia Velasca comes with a decent price tag at the cost of the espresso flavor which is a bit glitch as compared to the drink one you have tasted in the barista at the coffee shop. However, this coffee machine is great for latte and cappuccino lovers and all those drinks with milk components.
6. Philips 3200 – Best Fully Automatic Espresso Machine
Machine type: Fully Automatic | Bar pressure: 15 | Water tank capacity: 1.8 liters | Built-in grinder: integrated ceramic burr grinder | Boiler: yes | Brewing options: 4 | Weight: 20.3 lbs | Size height*width* depth: 14.5*9.5*17
Reasons to buy
- Absolutely a different experience
- Cup warmer
- 12 grinding settings, 275 gram bean hopper with ceramic burr grinder and bypass doser
- Milk frothing like a barista
- Auto cleaning and descaling
Reasons to avoid
- Not durable but more likely maintaining delicacy
Philips 3200 is one of the best espresso machines fully automatic for effortless preparation of coffee, espresso, Americano and hot water. With three different temperatures, when I say different, they really are, which maintains the highly effective, rich and demandable coffee extraction poured directly in your cup within no time. It is a perfect coffee maker for a busy workstation and perfect home latte machine. Its three strength settings are nice for a variety of drinks prepared at home without putting any more effort other than grind, strength and type of drink options. Whereas, frothing and steaming of the milk is also perfect from flat to micro foaming.
It comes with an Aqua clean filter and requires descaling not before 5000 cups of coffee, in addition, there is auto rinse ability too, so the user is again laden free from the cleaning hassles. It has a 1.8 liters water tank that is front accessible, its whole brew unit and the tank both are removable for detailed cleaning which would not be required anytime soon but after 2000 cups of coffee.
However, Philips 3200 automatic espresso machine is built up of plastic other than the internal components. We have encountered this coffee machine as a little delicate for rigorous usage, though the user is supposed not to scrub the unit too harshly but wiping the stains carefully is recommended. The removable parts should also be handled with precaution and rinse it under the tape. The overall performance is great, under $600, you are having your own coffee shop at home. This espresso machine is quite suitable for low hanging cabinets, its small footprint takes too less space on the counter and remains active to serve your favorite beverage to boost your activeness.
7. Breville Bambino Plus Espresso BES500BSS – Best Semi Automatic Espresso Machine
Machine type: Semi Automatic | Bar pressure: 15 bar | Water tank capacity: 1.9 liters | Built-in grinder: None | Boiler: Yes | Weight: 3.1 lbs | Size height*width* depth: 12.6*7.7*11.8
Reasons to buy
- The most compact design
- Superb home protocol coffee maker
- 3 seconds instant heat up supportive
- Best coffee machine for beginners
- Automatic steam wand and have pre infusion
Reasons to avoid
- Lacks built-in grinder
- Mediocre micro foaming
- Locking of portafilter requires lots of force
Breville Bambino Plus is included into the category of the semi automatic best espresso machines under 500 dollars. Not everyone is privileged to get the perfect coffee maker in this price range, with most of the sacrifice and little to get hands on, there are so many espresso makers in the market. But very few could maintain the ideal taste of fresh coffee in every shot, Breville Bambino is one of them. This machine is suitable for home and residential use, it does not require the requisite skills of a barista but is still capable to push you to the same great taste as those who longed for waiting at busy coffee shops to get served. With a stainless steel brushed exterior, this machine has a compact footprint and light in weight which is extremely easy to lift and change its place from one counter to another or could be shifted to your personal cabin at the office.
Being a semi automatic coffee machine, requires more role of the user than one touch coffee machines. This is a single boiler espresso machine which is more dedicated for its durability it offers along with the quality of the dispensed shot of espresso. However, there is no built-in grinder nor a pod insert, but have a 54mm portafilter which needs 19 gram of grounded coffee dose to get the perfect shot of espresso (22 gram for the strong shot) otherwise the taste wouldn’t meet the level of perfection. In case, your taste buds are more interested to get that freshly grounded coffee, then making an investment in Breville Smart Grinder Pro is the ideal option with a guaranteed return of favor in terms of perfectly balanced coffee taste.
Whereas, talking about other features, this coffee machine supports pre infusion to get the maximum extraction from the grounded coffee. Its 3 second heat up temperature enables the user to prepare the drink one after another instantly without distorting the viscous espresso taste. Therefore it is capable to maintain the balance of coffee extraction in each cup with high quality and persist the ability of maintaining the pertinent taste after all the dramatical procedures. Apart from this, the automatic steam wand is not up to the notch performer, so if you are the one who doesn’t care so much about the latte art, then this espresso machine is made for you.
8. Nespresso De’Longhi – Best capsule espresso machine
Machine type: Super Automatic | Bar pressure: 19 bar | Water tank capacity: 1.1 liters | Built-in grinder: No | Brewing options: 3 | Weight: 9.7lbs | Size height*width* depth:
Reasons to buy
- Control and prepare your drink with mobile app or BlueTooth
- Magnetic drip tray; facilitate cup sizes
- Instant temperature, instant preparation, auto shut off and energy saver
- Impressive flat to wall design
- Comes with a set of Nespresso variety of capsule types
Reasons to avoid
- No milk frother
- Welcomes only capsules by Nespresso
Your smart kitchen needs smart appliances and when it comes to coffee makers, not any ordinary coffee machine can fit there but only the best smart espresso machine by Nespresso De’Longhi deserves to be there. This is the most versatile, smart, creative and innovative solution to fix this requirement for a true coffee lover. Get your hands on espresso, Lungo, Ristretto, Nespresso Americano without leaving your comfort zone but via app in order to personalize your coffee style on your smartphone and iPad. This is the perfectly devoted next generation coffee maker which gives so much control with high tech performance with the sustainability of the quality cup each time no matter what type of beverage you command to prepare.
Making a shot with the help of the App doesn’t mean you can’t operate by yourself in the kitchen. Though the App has so much to offer, for instance, this will alert you when the water tank needs a refill, when capsules are near to end, when descaling is required, you can even order the capsules via the app or make a call to the franchise. Not only this, but punch down your type of coffee just prior to leaving your bed and grab your boost instantly. Whereas, speaking of the cup size, four cup sizes are facilitated thanks to the magnetic sliding drip tray platform, which has to be manually adjusted. Its 19 bar high pump pressure makes the ideal shot for the user within no time. The temperature of hot water requires only 30 seconds and the very next moment you will be having your coffee cup in the hand.
Nespresso Expert by De’Longhi is one of the best single serve espresso machines equipped with every necessary option to get the perfect aroma of the coffee, although it lacks the functionality of milk frother, you have to buy it separately for milk beverages. If you have ever come across the previous models of espresso makers by Nespresso, you will definitely make differences in the areas in which this unit has come with great rectifications comparatively. Consequently, this espresso machine is highly competitive on multiple fronts, its built is exceptionally great in many aspects. It suits your tabletop in the dining, countertop in the kitchen or cabin in the office, it takes too less of your space and lets the user feel like a boss. Although you must keep in mind, if you run out of coffee capsules, make sure to buy from Nespresso, you can clearly see the taste of espresso made by Nespresso capsules are incredibly distinctive than any other.
Wait for a second! Are you missing the element of milk frother? Or craving too much for Latte or cappuccino, then you wouldn’t regret having your best espresso machine with milk frother named Nespresso De’Longhi Lattissima One with the same high tech performance you aim for. In fact, this machine not only comes with milk frother which you wouldn’t need to buy separately, but is less costly as well.
9. Cuisinart EM-100 – Best Home Barista Machine
Machine type: Semi Automatic | Bar pressure: 15 bar | Water tank capacity: 1.5 liters | Built-in grinder: None | Boiler: single | Brewing options: 4 | Weight: 1 lbs | Size height*width* depth: 14.7*16.12.8
Reasons to buy
- Use grounded coffee or pod
- Budget friendly
- Dishwasher safe steam wand
- Cup warmer and removable drip tray
- Texturing milk like an expert
Reasons to avoid
- A bit noisy mechanism
- No built-in grinder
All the cappuccino and latte yearners, it’s a time to settle for this piece trust me. With the very precise and up to requirement straight options leave you nowhere but to the perfectly flavoured latte. It is guaranteed that you are going to get the exact coffee taste you have experienced by the hands of a barista at a coffee shop. With the most appropriate size and weight, this rank ninth position among the best espresso machines, highly capable to maintain all the notches of requiring a home field. Its operation is pretty easy, nor it has a digital panel, neither has a built-in grinder but a knob to adjust the settings at which you need your cup of shot and a stainless steel portafilter.
With a variety of brewing options, this espresso machine brings the most balanced yet rich aromatic flavor thanks to the 15 bar pressure. There are three portafilters, one for small, one for a large cup and the third for pod users. It is a very simplified version of the espresso machine, completely preferable for those who say no for complexities comes with automatic machines with a number of options many people haven’t heard about before. Moreover, the steam wand works optimally with nice capability to steam and froth the milk for latte and cappuccino cravers.
Further, the user doesn’t need to buy tamper, milk frothing pitcher and steam nozzle separately, all these come with this unit itself to facilitate the user as much as it can. Moving towards how easy it can be cleaned, there are cleaning pins with which the stucked residue of milk and coffee can be cleared off easily. The drip tray and water tank are removable and washable too, rest of the cleaning has to be done by the wiping. Although this machine supports pods and capsules, we would recommend to prepare your shot with grounded coffee instead, to get the better flavor of the coffee.
10. Keurig K-Cafe – Best ESE Pod Espresso Machine
Machine type: Super Automatic | Bar pressure: | Water tank capacity: 1.7 liters | Built-in grinder: None | Boiler: | Brewing options: 3 | Weight: 13.4 lbs | Size height*width* depth: 14.1*17.4*14.2
Reasons to buy
- Perfect for ice latte, cappuccino and espresso
- Simple and easy operating
- Dedicated for K-Cup
- Automatic frothing or crema and milk
- Durable and stylish
Reasons to avoid
- Mild espresso taste
- Non perfection in frothing
- Lack temperature control
If you are a K-cup lover or a fan of cold coffee, this K-cafe coffee maker suits you perfectly. This machine is built to facilitate the user with three brewing options. The main reason for being in our list of best espresso machines is, it offers convenience and ease of use. A mess free option for the k-cup aficionado, plus a suitable single serve coffee maker for people who don’t want to put much of their effort nor have time to stand before their machine waiting for the beverage to dispense. You can make four different sizes of a cup; 6, 8, 10 and 12 ounce, you can place your large mugs too.
Although it is a pod machine, there are few exceptions regarding the process of the frothing, you need to forget the artwork on your latte. The frothing is not so great, it creates a thick foam on your cappuccino but the taste is a little bit diluted which we couldn’t say up to the perfection level. The crema frothing is also not great but still, you can froth milk and cream and make layers of them to create a better drink than serving it individually. The cleaning procedure is simple and realistic but it hardly requires it because of the pod compatibility. However, the cleaning and rinsing is only restricted to the milk frother and water tank, which is again not demanding on a daily basis.
Speaking of the design, to be honest, this unit needs rectification. The jutting out of the water reservoir and frother could be packed into the machine and leave more counter space for other work. But then again it’s ok, because Keurig K-Cafe has its specific design symbol, where there is criticism there is a place of expediency too. It is a single serve coffee maker, but hardly takes time, not more than a few blinks to get another shot without moving around. Along with these compromises, we can sum up this machine as an average latte maker for home use, rather we can say it as a better version of k-cup and espresso combo.
Factors for considering the best espresso machines today – Buyers Guide
If you couldn’t decipher what type of espresso machine fits for the perfect espresso, then make a checklist of these basic elements you must not compromise over. In this guide, we not only put out primary features but also have given special consideration to a few extra points which counted as a bonus for the best espresso machines for home.
User friendly: The ease of use should be the priority, especially if you are a person who is more into automation than manual operating of the appliances. According to a survey conducted locally by students of the University of Delaware, only 38% of buyers read manuals that come along with the electronic appliances, the rest of the people do not put themselves into reading those instructions. We believe the machines should be easy to use with prominent instructions displayed on them instead of shuffling manuals for obvious options. Similarly, the best espresso machines is the one which could be easily operated and understandable.
Mess free: Cleaning the espresso machine is a complicated process and requires much of the user’s attention. The frequent cleaning of the components enhances the lifespan of the machine, though whether the components of the unit are detachable or not that has to be found carefully before buying. The milk jug, portafilter, built-in grinder and water tank are open for specs of coffee or liquid, need to be rinsed thoroughly. Speaking of the manual coffee makers or espresso machines, they are a bit messy as compared to automatic machines, but automatic machines have few components that are removable, hence the complexity lies in the convenience of the machine itself.
Matter of preferences: Your choice for the type of the drink plays a vital role in the buying of the machine, this will decide the sort of espresso maker you want at home. If you want only for a shot of espresso and have no plan for latte or cappuccino, then purely an espresso maker can fit your requirement without going into the frother or boiler much. But if the liking goes from not just any espresso but to the latte to cappuccino to mochas to macchiato, then any ordinary espresso machine wouldn’t be enough for you. Other than that, whether you are buying a machine for home, small cafe or for a large scale coffee shop, this has to be decided carefully and should be prior to anything else.
Size of the machine: The size and weight of the machine require much attention, where you need the unit to be placed and how much space it will take on your counter has to be checked. The manual espresso machine takes less space as compared to the automatic unit, whereas the commercial espresso machines are bigger in size and weigh as well. Therefore, if you feel the need to have bigger machines and have ample space to place them, then it would be good, otherwise small scale espresso makers or a portable coffee machine can fit well.
Other features: Milk frother: A frothing wand is a necessity for cappuccino, mochas or any other drink which requires frothing of the milk. This steamed milk froth by the steam wand is actually a reasonable thing to invest on if you want to experience that flavour rich beverage.
Built-in grinder: Many of the espresso machines you will come across with built-in grinder, either burr grinder or conical. This feature worth buying that cuts more of your effort and allows the user to free from grinding coffee beans manually, simultaneously results in freshly grounded coffee at the moment to enhance the flavor to the connoisseur’s liking.
Capacity: The brewing capacity has special consideration too. The number of cups that a particular espresso machine can brew at a time tells the brewing capacity. Not only this but the quality of the drink should not be neglected at the cost of the number of cups.
Water tank: The capacity of the water tank defines the brewing capacity of the unit and water filter defines the quality of the shot it produces. The more cups in a row is required, the bigger the capacity of the tank should be. Similarly, the tank should have a water filter so it wouldn’t affect the taste of your coffee or espresso. Apart from this, make sure the filling of the tank is easy and have comprehensive opening lids without hindrance or should it be removable to fill directly from the tank. In short, the refill should be hassle free and quick to resume the brewing process.
Settings: there are many automatic espresso machines with LCD displays, some of them are with touch options, this will definitely depend and affect your budget. Likewise, many are with a single touch and many are with very fewer options displayed on the unit limiting the options of the beverages for the user. Whichever espresso machine you opt for, try to figure out and learn them quickly and should be operated by everyone in the house easily.
Portafilter: A portafilter is usually made up of brass in order to deal effectively with heat retention during the passage of hot water and grounded coffee beans. This process is extremely important to get the right extract required for the perfect espresso.
Conclusion
There is absolutely no need to compromise over your coffee passion when there is so much you can grab even in your tight budget. Although, if you are willing to spend your money to eliminate any exception for coffee then indeed nothing is better than this because under $1000 you can easily get the best espresso machine for your home. However, that doesn’t mean you can throw your money on any brand without complete knowledge of it, this will be a clear flash out of the cash. Therefore, make sure whichever coffee machine you are buying, you fully acknowledge with its features and its compatibility with your requirements. Hope this guide has enlightened you much of the basic aspects of an espresso maker with the ability to prepare other beverages in case you want to switch from espresso to latte to cappuccino to lungo to Americano, in order to enjoy a number of drinks from the single machine.
