9 Best Espresso Machines, Tested and Reviewed
Our top picks include a range of machines from budget-friendly to high-end.
Reviewed by Nicole PapantoniouKitchen Appliances Lab Director
We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
Whether you're new to espresso or a seasoned barista, the right machine can elevate your coffee experience. From fully automatic espresso machines with grinders that can make a latte with the push of a few buttons to manual machines offering total control, there's an option to suit your needs.
The Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab tests espresso makers year-round, and over the past few decades, we've tested more than 60 espresso machines. We evaluate each machine's performance and ease of use, as well as conduct a taste test of each espresso. We also note features that offer added convenience. Our top picks range from convenient options for beginners to manual espresso machines for experts and everything in between.
KitchenAid KF8 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine
Pros
- Option to choose espresso temperature, body and volume
- Consistently brews tasty espresso
- Extremely easy to set up
Cons
- May need to make adjustments to crema
Type: Fully-automatic | Dimensions 14.3" x 10.2" x 18.5" | Pressure: Not listed | Water capacity: 2.2 liters
The KF8 from KitchenAid earned a spot in our Good Housekeeping Kitchen Gear, Coffee and Tea Awards, and for good reason: It offers a wide variety of drink options and customization and was a top performer in both ease of use and espresso quality. This machine allows you to choose from 12 espresso recipes, including distinctive options not often found in others, such as a cortado or café au lait. You can also customize your desired temperature and body (light, medium or dark) as well as coffee and milk volumes. Additionally, you can choose whether the coffee or milk is poured first and select between dairy or non-dairy milk to optimize frothing.
I was impressed by how easy the machine was to set up, thanks to the step-by-step guided instructions displayed on the large screen. The touchscreen was also highly responsive. Over my years of testing espresso machines, I've found that those with extensive drink options and customizations can come with a learning curve. This one was remarkably user-friendly. I was able to use it and make adjustments without having to fiddle with the machine or refer to the instruction manual.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: In our tests, the espresso had great flavor and was well-balanced. I found that the machine was very consistent in terms of taste, volume and temperature when making espresso. The frother produced a good amount of silky foam for cappuccinos, and the container is removable, allowing for storage of leftover milk in the fridge.
TAKE NOTE: The crema was on the light side, so it may require some experimentation to find the settings to suit your taste.
Pros
- Trendy design
- Produces well-balanced espresso
- Affordable
Cons
- Built-in wand does not froth milk well
Type: Semi-automatic | Dimensions 15.44" x 6.26" x 12.13" | Pressure: 15-BARs | Water capacity: 1 quart
At just under $130, the Thyme and Table Barista Mini Espresso Machine is more affordable than many espresso machines and performed well in our Lab testing. It has some nice extra features, including a warming plate on top to warm your mug before pulling a shot and a built-in wand for frothing milk and dispensing hot water.
We found the 1-quart water tank to be easy to fill, thanks to its large opening, and it's also removable for filling at the sink. This espresso maker is a great option for those who don't want to spend hundreds of dollars and prefer a basic espresso machine with minimal extra features. Plus, we appreciate the trendy color options, including Sand, Slate and Atlantic Blue, with gold accents on the portafilter and steam knob.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: I was surprised at how well this machine performed, given its lower price tag. The espresso was well-balanced with a thick layer of crema.
TAKE NOTE: The built-in wand did an excellent job of steaming milk but not as well with frothing, so you may need to purchase a separate frother.
De'Longhi Magnifica Start Espresso Machine
Pros
- Automatically froths and steams milk
- Makes tasty espresso
- Compact
Cons
- May need to experiment with espresso to find correct strength
Type: Fully-automatic | Dimensions 17" x 9.25" x 14" | Pressure: 15-BARs | Water capacity: 60 ounces
With this De'Longhi espresso machine, making coffee drinks is effortless for both beginners and pros. In fact, we found this machine so easy to use, making flavorful drinks at the push of a button, it earned a spot in our Good Housekeeping Kitchen Gear, Coffee and Tea Awards. It offers five drinks, including latte macchiato, cappuccino, espresso, coffee and hot water, all at the push of a button. The control panel features pictures and text, making it easy to see and select the desired drink options. The built-in coffee grinder has 13 settings to adjust grind preferences.
I've tested nearly all of De'Longhi's espresso machines and love their milk-frothing jugs. They produce a substantial amount of foam and are convenient to use, as they are hands-off and pour froth directly into drinks like cappuccinos and lattes. Another bonus: The espresso maker's compact size won't take up too much counter space.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: I loved the thick froth that this machine produced without having to manually operate a steam wand. It's also intuitive to use, with one tester saying, "Never having used an espresso machine prior to this, I feel super comfortable using this one because it's so easy to use and to clean."
TAKE NOTE: We found the espresso to be a touch weak on a medium setting, but this can be easily fixed by adjusting the strength or grind size.
Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine
Pros
- Built-in grinder
- 30 grind sizes, five temperature options and four filter baskets
- Steam wand for manual milk frothing
Cons
- 30 grind sizes may seem overwhelming for beginners
Type: Semi-automatic | Dimensions 13.5" x 13.9" x 15.98" | Pressure: 15-BARs | Water capacity: 67 ounces
If you’re very particular about your coffee, the Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine with a built-in grinder is for you. Those who want to fine-tune and experiment with their espresso will appreciate the numerous grind sizes and temperature options. The intuitive LCD display allows you to choose from five temperatures and a whopping 30 grind sizes, and it shows grinding and extracting progress animations. The attached steam wand allows you to froth your milk exactly how you like it.
Like other Breville espresso machines, this model comes with two single-walled and two double-walled filters. The double-walled filters are great for producing a thick layer of crema, even with older espresso beans or pre-ground coffee.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: All parts are easy to wash and wipe down, and in our tests, we were especially impressed with how quickly the system heated up compared to other models.
TAKE NOTE: We recommend experimenting with the settings, starting with the defaults and then adjusting as needed to create your perfect espresso.
Pros
- Hands-on operation that's ideal for traditionalists
- Steam wand attached for frothing milk
- Compact size and easy to clean
Cons
- Does not have a built-in grinder
Type: Semi-automatic | Dimensions 7.6" x 12.5" x 12.2" | Pressure: 19-BARs | Water capacity: 64 ounces
Not only does the Breville Bambino Plus make a tasty espresso, but its compact size also won't take up a lot of counter space. I owned this machine for years, and it produced high-quality espresso without sacrificing too much space. I also didn't have any issues with the machine.
It comes with two dual-wall filter baskets for pre-ground coffee beans, a trimming tool, a tamper and a milk jug to be used with the attached steam wand to froth your own milk. The brew settings allow you to choose between a single espresso or a double espresso, along with steamy, frothy or very frothy milk.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: In the Lab, this machine made strong espresso with a crema that wasn't overbearing. I found that this machine heated quickly, wasn't too loud, had a small footprint and could be wiped down easily.
TAKE NOTE: You'll need to use pre-ground espresso or purchase a separate grinder, as this machine doesn't have one built in.
De'Longhi Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee & Espresso Machine
Pros
- Preset brews offer consistency
- Nespresso will recycle returned pods
- Super easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Can't use your own coffee beans or grounds
Type: Capsule | Dimensions 5.59" x 16.88" x 12.79" | Pressure: 9-BARs | Water capacity: 60 ounces
Our pros appreciate how easy the Nespresso VertuoPlus is to use, offering tasty espresso or coffee from the convenience of a capsule without the hassle of tamping, brewing and cleaning up. With a light press of the lever, the lid opens and closes with ease. To brew, simply push the button and wait for the machine to produce a delicious drink. It's also relatively foolproof: The capsule machine uses a special system to detect the barcode on the capsule and then brews the drink exactly as it's supposed to. Choose from five drink types: espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, mug and alto (perfect for your travel mugs).
The position of the water tank can be moved to fit your counter space. Another noteworthy perk is that Nespresso recycles used pods if you send them back to the company, and the brand's newest Vertuo machine is made with 54% recycled plastic. Finally, you can't beat the price, and it requires barely any cleanup.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: Every cup of espresso and coffee came out hot and well-rounded with a luxurious crema.
TAKE NOTE: It's only compatible with Nespresso capsules so you can't use your own coffee.
De'Longhi Rivelia Automatic Espresso Machine
Pros
- Comes with two hoppers to switch between coffee bean types
- Compact design
- Plenty of drink options
Cons
- Some beans are left behind when changing hoppers
Type: Fully-automatic | Dimensions 9.75" x 15" x 14.75" | Pressure: 15-BARs | Water capacity: 47 ounces
De'Longhi's Rivelia espresso machine has quickly become a Lab favorite. One unique feature is its bean switch system, which allows you to easily switch between the two included hoppers without the hassle of emptying one or waiting for the beans to run out. I found the hoppers to be easy to swap out with minimal effort and appreciate that the machine can accommodate both those who prefer medium roast coffee beans and those who prefer dark roast.
The De'Longhi Rivelia won't take up a lot of counter space with its compact design. Setting it up was easy, thanks to on-screen instructions, and I found using the machine to be a breeze. It's loaded with 18 drink options, such as latte, iced coffee, flat white and more. You can also set up as many as four user profiles, which can save individual coffee routines and customizations.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS The default espresso settings made a strong espresso with creamy crema and there are five intensity levels to suit various preferences. The automatic frother worked well, producing a thick, silky layer of foam for cappuccinos and lattes.
TAKE NOTE: When switching hoppers, some beans are left behind, but the grind and empty feature can clear out the remaining beans.
Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine & Frother
Pros
- App-enabled
- Removable milk frothing wand
- Sleek and stylish design
Cons
- Using dark roast coffee beans in grinder is not recommended
Type: Automatic | Dimensions 15.7" x 7.2" x 12.5" | Pressure: 20-BARs | Water capacity: 40.5 ounces
The Café Affetto features a sleek design that minimalists will appreciate. It offers options for a few espresso drinks, making it a good choice for someone who wants a basic, compact machine that brews espresso from freshly ground coffee beans. The water reservoir and hopper are hidden so it doesn't look clunky and helps it maintain its compact size. It's not only the style that's design-forward; this compact model also has Wi-Fi connectivity. It connects with the SmartHQ app to help you customize the temperature and grind dosage for your desired strength.
The top of this model has an easy-to-read, simple control panel with the following settings: espresso, Americano, my cup or hot water. "My cup" is automatically set to ristretto, but you can change it to your favorite coffee drink in the SmartHQ app. You can also remove the milk frothing wand for easy cleaning, and the entire exterior is easy to wipe down without extra knobs or buttons.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: In my tests, I found this machine easy to use and was impressed with the really beautiful espresso that was silky with a golden brown crema. The built-in frothing wand heated milk quickly and produced a nice foam.
TAKE NOTE: The brand recommends avoiding using dark roast coffee beans in the machine because they tend to contain more oils that can adhere to the machine's components and potentially cause damage.
Lelit MaraX Manual Espresso Machine
Pros
- Can make adjustments to pressure, water temperature and brew time
- Fun to experiment with controlling various parameters of brewing process
- Group head preheats to prevent temperature drops as the water flows through
Cons
- Preheat time can take up to 24 minutes
- Not for beginners
Type: Manual | Dimensions 8.75" x 20.5" x 14" | Pressure: Customizable | Water capacity: 85 ounces
The Lelit MaraX manual espresso maker is not for a beginner looking to make an easy shot of espresso, but it is perfect for espresso lovers who want complete control over the entire process. With this machine, you can customize multiple variables when brewing espresso, including water temperature, brewing time and pressure, allowing you to experiment with your espresso. The group head preheats to prevent temperature drops during brewing, ensuring consistent temperature from start to finish.
The fun of manual machines is that you can experiment with coffee grind size, pressure, temperature and brew time to find your perfect cup or experiment to bring out different flavor notes in the coffee beans. The milk frothing wand worked well to produce a silky, smooth froth with whole milk. However, with plant-based milk, there was little froth, which is common, so we recommend using barista-style options for non-dairy milk. It includes three portafilter baskets in various doses (1-dose: 9 to 11 grams, 2-dose: 14 to 18 grams and a larger 2-dose: 18 to 21 grams) to customize your brew.
HOW IT PERFORMED IN OUR TESTS: There was a big learning curve when I was testing this machine. However, once I got the hang of it, I found the espresso maintained consistent temperatures without the large swings and came out flavorful, strong and full-bodied.
TAKE NOTE: Lelit states that the machine warm-up time can take up to 24 minutes; I found it was ready in just under 15 minutes. Either way, you’ll need to plan accordingly.
Other espresso machines with grinders we tested and liked (but may not be for everyone)
• Breville Barista Express Impress: Many of our coffee experts loved this machine, and it has been one of our best overall picks. While it's a great machine, a few of our pros have noticed that it started to experience durability issues after a few years of ownership.
• Philips Kitchen Appliances 3200 Series Fully Automatic: This was one of our favorite fully automatic espresso machines, and testers commented the drinks were flavorful. It was slightly edged out by other models, but it's decently priced for a fully automatic machine, coming in at just under $800.
• Philips Baristina: If you're looking for a compact espresso machine with a built-in grinder, this is an excellent choice. It's not fully automatic, but it's a pretty good value for a machine that grinds, tamps and brews espresso for just under $350.
• Capresso Café TS Touch: We liked this Capresso espresso machine as it performs well for its price point, but our new best value pick performs just as well and is less expensive.
• Bosch 300 Series VeroCafe Fully Automatic: Out of the dozens of espresso machines we’ve tested over the years, this one stood out because it allows you to froth milk for cappuccinos or lattes directly in your cup.
• De'Longhi Dinamica Plus Fully Automatic: A longtime favorite of our experts, we found this machine pulls delicious espresso with a thin layer of crema.
How we test espresso machines
In the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, we evaluate each espresso maker for ease of use, brew time, consistency, taste, temperature and noise level.
We've tested over 60 espresso machines across the last few decades to find the best ones for making great espresso at home. In our most recent test, we rounded up over 12 espresso machines in the Lab, brewing more than 50 shots of espresso. Here's how we test.
- For performance, we test the temperature and volume of multiple espressos in a row and time each one to evaluate consistency.
- We also note the quality of the crema. Our experts taste the espresso to rate the flavor and body of each drink.
- If the machine includes a milk frother, we test it with both skim and a non-dairy milk to assess the quality of the frothing. Where applicable, we use the machine's preset options to make cappuccinos and lattes, assessing the overall quality of the drinks.
- When it comes to ease of use, our favorite machines are easy to set up, simple to use without a user manual, quick to heat up and reasonably fast to brew.
The best machines in our tests produced a hot, flavorful cup of espresso. Our favorite shots had nice depth and weren't too bitter or acidic, with a crema that was smooth and lacked noticeable air bubbles.
What to look for when shopping for the best espresso machine
An espresso machine is an investment — especially if you want one with all the bells and whistles. So it's important to consider the type that fits your needs.
✔️ Type: There are several ways to make espresso with manual, semi-automatic, automatic, super-automatic and pod machines all available to the home barista.
• Manual machines require finely ground beans that are scooped into a portafilter and tamped down. The filter is attached to the brew head and a lever is used to manually pull water through the grounds. It is the most customizable method but arguably the most difficult to master.
•Semi-automatic machines and automatic machines are terms that may vary between brands. Both types incorporate a mix of manual and automated features. Typically, a semi-automatic machine is more hands-on and requires grinding and tamping the coffee beans, whereas espresso machines labeled as automatic tend to perform these steps for you. Both types usually require manual milk frothing.
• Fully-automatic machines are a step above automatic ones. In addition to grinding and tamping beans, they can also automatically froth milk and dispense it into your cup, all at the push of a button or two. Many offer a variety of drinks beyond espresso, such as americanos and lattes, and recently we’ve seen models that include a cold brew-style option. These tend to be our favorites in Lab testing for their all-in-one performance.
• Capsule machines use pods filled with pre-measured coffee to make espresso or other coffee drinks. They offer the most consistency and ease of use with minimal hands-on effort.
✔️ Size: Consider how much space you have to allocate to your espresso maker. The more customizable ones are usually bigger, while the smaller ones are typically more straightforward with fewer brewing options.
✔️ Price: A good espresso maker with features like a built-in grinder and multiple drink options can be expensive; a simple machine is usually more affordable. However, some espresso machines that seem straightforward can be costly due to higher-quality materials and more effective heaters, milk frothers or technology.
✔️ Pressure: The amount of pressure exerted upon coffee grounds is measured by BARs or barometric pressure. While some machines will have up to 19 BARs, a machine that exerts around 7 to 11 BARs of pressure into the espresso will produce a good extraction.
Extra nice-to-have options for the best espresso machines
✔️ Coffee grinder: Grinding your coffee beans right before pulling a shot is ideal for a good cup of espresso. Espresso machines with built-in coffee grinders are convenient, reduce some mess and ensure you have freshly ground coffee beans each time. One downside is that built-in grinders are difficult to repair if they break, often leading people to purchase an entirely new machine.
✔️ Milk frother: There are two common types of milk frothers: a hand-frothing wand that requires manual milk frothing in a pitcher or an attached milk container that the machine utilizes to froth milk and add it directly into your cup. With a manual frothing wand, you can practice your latte art, but it does take some practice to learn how to froth milk properly right from the start. An attached milk container with automatic frothing takes out all the guesswork, providing you with a cappuccino at the perfect temperature and a generous amount of foam automatically.
✔️ Cleanup: Depending on the model, espresso machines tend to be easy to clean. Some fully-automatic machines take the work out of routine cleaning, while more manual machines require daily cleaning of the portafilter, milk frother and other components. Some super-automatic machines have milk containers that connect to the machine via a straw, which can be tricky to clean, and large drip trays that can be cumbersome to use. You will also need to descale your machine every couple of months (or as recommended by the manufacturer) to ensure your espresso machine operates properly and your coffee tastes great.
What should a beginner look for in an espresso machine?
When choosing an espresso machine, beginners should consider whether they want convenience or want to explore the process of making espresso. If convenience is a priority, opt for a fully automatic or automatic machine. Look for features such as a built-in grinder, assisted tamping and automatic frothing. Fully-automatic machines can grind, tamp, brew and froth with the push of a button.
For beginners seeking more control or who enjoy experimenting, a manual or semi-automatic machine offers flexibility. The features provided can vary by machine but typically allow users to manually grind, load and tamp the coffee while automating the brewing process. If you enjoy lattes or cappuccinos, consider whether you want to froth milk manually with a wand or let the machine do it for you. Additional features, such as temperature control, pressure settings and brew time, allow you to fine-tune your espresso and customize the flavor.
How do espresso machines work?
Espresso makers work by using pressure to quickly push hot water through a tightly packed portafilter of finely ground coffee. The added pressure and fast brew time are what create the espresso's thicker consistency and crema layer.
The espresso's look and taste are influenced by many different factors, including the type of coffee used and how tightly it's packed, grind size, water temperature, pressure and more. Because all of these can vary, each shot can be highly customizable depending on the machine.
Home baristas who enjoy trying different coffees and experimenting with settings may want to choose a machine with more options, whereas those not looking to fine-tune their coffee settings may prefer a more automated machine.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Jamie Ueda is a consumer products expert with over 17 years of experience in product development and manufacturing. She tests and writes about everything coffee related year-round, including espresso makers with grinders, espresso makers, coffee grinders, drip coffee makers, French presses and more. She has a passion for coffee and has completed rigorous coffee courses from the SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) in coffee brewing, barista skills and sensory tasting. She regularly tests and contributes her knowledge as a judge in the Good Housekeeping Kitchen Gear and Coffee Awards.
Nicole Papantoniou is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she oversees all testing and content related to cooking and making drinks. Her favorite espresso machines are easy to use and clean and — most importantly — deliver a rich and balanced cup of espresso.
Jamie Ueda is a consumer products expert with over 17 years of experience in areas of product development and manufacturing. She has held leading roles at both mid-size consumer goods companies and one of the most notable and largest apparel brands in the world. Jamie has contributed to several of the GH Institute Labs, including Kitchen Appliances, Media and Tech, Textiles and Home Appliances. In her free time she enjoys cooking, traveling, and working out.
Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition. She has worked in test kitchens for small kitchen appliance brands and national magazines, including Family Circle and Ladies’ Home Journal.
The Best Ice Cream Makers
The Best Automatic Espresso Machines
The Best Smart Refrigerators
The Best Countertop Dishwashers
