Which Is The Best Home Espresso Machine?


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Best Espresso Machines for Home

A perfect Espresso Machine can bloom your lifestyle by pulling consistent espresso shots and extracting all the essential elements and flavors from coffee grounds so that you get that perfect palette every time. The job of an espresso machine is to produce a highly concentrated, dark, and rich textured drink, or more precisely, we can say – Finely ground coffee beans packed into the portafilter onto which highly pressurized boiling water is passed, the outcome is called Espresso Shot.

AT A GLANCE ON OUR FAVORITE HOME ESPRESSO MACHINES

We will not be considering the manual types as they are mostly bought for artistic placements and we suppose that you are here for an electric espresso machine. In this article, we will be more focused on the two categories – Semi and Fully-automatics.

Within this article, we will talk about semi-automatics and automatic espresso machines. These are the ones that most coffee aficionados and cafes use. These deduce the scope of errors by automating some of the processes while one can still customize the espresso shot by manually tweaking with some parameters.

If you are still unsure what you want, go back and read about the types of espresso machines to clear any kind of confusion if you have some.

Check if you are looking for something specific:

  1. If you are looking for a bean-to-cup espresso machine, we suggest going through our guide about the best super-automatic espresso machines.
  2. When budget is a constraint, look through our collection of affordable and budget-friendly espresso machines under $200.
  3. For people who are seeking a balance between quality and price, we have our list of espresso machines under $500 giving a quite decent performance.
  4. Want a package that contains a built-in grinder as well, have a look on the best espresso machines with Grinder on top.
  5. For people who are buying the machine just for the sake of latte, we have a collection of our favorite latte machines just to provide you the best latte experience.
  6. Cappuccino lovers, again we have a dedicated list of the best cappuccino makers on our site.
  7. Jura’s are favorites of many who are less on time but have a good budget. Here is the list of Best Jura Coffee machines to explore.

If nothing specific matches up, go ahead reading the article to discover the best of each category in the reviews about top-notch espresso machines below.

Best Espresso Machines for Home – Our Top 11 Picks

1. Delonghi EC155 – Most Affordable Espresso Machine

DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino...
  • Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or...
  • EVERY CUP TO YOUR LIKING: 15-bar professional pressure...
  • BREW LIKE A PRO: Whatever your preference – single or...
  • YOUR FOAM, YOUR WAY: A manual frother mixes steam and milk...

For people looking for affordable options and demanding a cappuccino maker, this is the one to owe. We always wanted to include a budget option that costs around $100 and it is not among the cheap machines and does make a decent espresso. EC155 by DeLonghi is our choice for that. With numerous positive reviews from users, it is already serving great for many.

Features and Specifications

  • Compact design
  • 15 bar of pressure
  • Can use ESE pods as well as ground coffee beans with dual functionality patent holder
  • Priming option for fast start-up
  • Easy to use interface to prepare that delicious coffee drinks without getting annoyed with controls
  • Separate thermostats for steam and water
  • Stainless steel boiler
  • Swivel Jet Frother

So, under a small budget, the machine that withstands is De’Longhi EC155 having many features which premium machines generally have. If you are seeking a product in the budget of a stove-top espresso maker, this one is perfect to go. It is also one of the best Delonghi espresso machines in the market that sells like a hot cake and doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket.

2. Hamilton Beach 40792

Hamilton Beach Espresso Machine, Latte and...
  • CAFE-QUALITY RESULTS: Indulge in espresso, cappuccinos and...
  • 15 BAR ITALIAN PUMP: Supplies the pressure necessary for...
  • EASY SETUP: No fiddling with brew heads in hard-to-access...
  • SWIVELING STEAM WAND: Lets you steam and froth milk for...

If you’re looking for an entry-level machine that doesn’t cost too much, the Hamilton Beach 40792 might the right one to go for. It is among the best budget option for casual beginners, makes a good espresso cup and that is all that makes sense.

Features and Specifications

  • 15 bar Italian pump
  • Removable drip tray and water reservoir
  • Fairly Compact design
  • Swivel steam wand
  • Filter takes ground coffee or ESE pods
  • Cup warmer
  • Slide and Lock filter for easy set-up

HB 40792 is an easy machine for someone who is just learning to pull shots. The Slide and Lock feature holds the filter attachment securely in place when pulling the shot. It comes with two filter baskets to make either single or double espresso shots in case you need a high coffee strength. The single-shot basket can also be used with ESE coffee pods. Users report that they get decent crema with this machine.

However, Hamilton Beach does have some limitations. It has no programming options at all – you even have to manually stop the flow of water when your cup is full. Also, the housing is plastic and really isn’t built to withstand the test of time. But if you’re looking for an easy introduction to espresso and don’t want to spend a lot of fortune on the first machine, you can’t go wrong with this model.

3. Mr. Coffee Café Barista – Best Affordable Espresso Machine with Frother

Sale
Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine,...
  • Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or...
  • 2)It is important to note that the amount of espresso...
  • Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide...
  • Semi-automatic 3-in-1 espresso, cappuccino and latte maker

Become the envy of your neighbors with your very own personal barista! The Café Barista is the perfect companion for bringing the coffee house experience into the comfort of your home. Choose your favorite drink – lattes or cappuccinos, single or double espresso, with just a single press of a button. The automatic brewing and frothing guarantees barista-level perfection for each and every drink been made and what’s more – it’s the affordable price tag that is just marked under $200!

Features and Specifications

  • One-touch controls for single or double-shot drinks
  • Small compact design
  • Automatic hands-free built-in frother for perfect foamy milk
  • Removable milk reservoir for hassle-free cleaning
  • Removable water reservoir again for easy clean-up
  • Adjustable cup tray for allowing taller mugs
  • Removable drip tray for cleaning spills and drips during the process
  • Complete set of accessories that includes a filter for single and double shot, a measuring scoop, tamper, and a book of café-quality espresso drinks recipes
  • Automatic self-cleaning cycle for easy maintenance

The simplicity of the controls is only matched by the simplicity of the maintenance and cleanup of the Café Barista. Now, you can enjoy the perfect latte any time without having to leave your house. Impress your friends, or simply spoil yourself! This machine is for people looking for easy and automatic frothing functionality for milk-based drinks within a minimum budget.

4. DeLonghi EC702

De'Longhi 15 bar Pump Espresso Maker, EC702,...
  • Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide...

DeLonghi EC702 is another great pick if you are looking for a semi-automatic around a $200 bracket to learn to pull espresso shots. As for the first, people generally look for something affordable so that they can have a check as to whether it is for them or not.

This Delonghi comes packed with some extra features than the Hamilton Beach 40792 and is one of the most popular coffee machines available in the market.

Features and Specifications

  • 15 bar pump
  • Compact Design
  • 44-ounce removable water reservoir
  • Stainless steel boiler
  • Separate thermostats for water and steam
  • Automatic self-priming
  • Patented filter holder takes ground coffee or pods
  • Easy-to-use manual steam wand
  • Cup warmer

Just as with Hamilton Beach, you can use either ground coffee or ESE pods with this machine too. The pressurized portafilter baskets mean that you’ll get good crema every time even if you’re a beginner at pulling shots.
The DeLonghi EC702 features a good-quality stainless steel boiler along with a separate thermostat for the steam wand and pulling shots. The automatic self-priming means that you don’t have to wait around for long waiting for the machine to warm up.
This machine has very few bells and whistles – no automatic shut-off, no pre-infusion, and no programmability. But if you’re just looking for a basic entry-level machine that produces great shot and foam, this machine will keep you happy.

Although it’s a little costlier than Hamilton Beach which we stated above, it is worth the money spent with the increase in the quality of coffee being produced.

Read our complete review about DeLonghi EC702 Espresso Machine

5. Calphalon Temp IQ

Sale
Calphalon BVCLECMP1 Temp iQ Espresso Machine...
  • Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or...
  • 15-Bar Italian pump delivers the right amount of pressure...
  • Dial interface for selecting steam, hot water, and...
  • 58mm café-sized porta filter holds more grounds and ensures...

Another marvel that is among the latest introduction to semi-automatics in the Temp IQ by Calphalon. The brand is doing great for many consumers and they are happy with the consistent results. What marks this machine among the best picks the 58mm café-sized portafilter and the price point below $300.

Features and Specifications

  • Brushed steel finish
  • 15-Bar Italian pressure pump
  • Single Dial for selecting steam, hot water, and single-double shots
  • 58mm café-sized professional portafilter
  • Dual Wall 1 and 2 Cup Filters
  • Thermoblock heating technology
  • PID temperature control delivers even heat
  • Pre-infusion for blooming the espresso grounds for optimal extraction
  • Removable and large 2.0L water reservoir
  • Reservoir has a hinged lid for easy refills
  • Cup warming tray at the top
  • Accessories include stainless steel milk pitcher, tamper, and cleaning pin
  • Storage area under drip tray to store small accessories

Calphalon is one of the most sought out machines by new buyers. It pulls great shots with its thermo-block heating technology combined with a PID controller for stable temperatures. Moreover, the pre-infusion features allow blooming for optimal extraction of flavors. It even comes with a cup warmer at the top for heating espresso cups at such a feasible price tag. If you trust this new brand, you can blindly go for it.

6. Gaggia Classic Pro – Best Beginner Espresso Machine

Sale
Gaggia RI9380/46 Classic Evo Pro, Small,...
  • Solid Steel Housing, Made in Italy
  • 9 Bar Espresso Extractions
  • Stainless Steel 58mm Commercial Portafilter
  • Commercial Three Way Solenoid Valve

Put your professional barista skills to the test with Gaggia’s latest installment—the Classic Pro Machine. Constructed of high-grade stainless steel, this compact-sized machine has the feel of a coffee shop espresso but is small enough for any countertop.

The latest design Pannarello steam wand ensures perfect milk froth to produce café-quality espresso drinks and cappuccinos in each and every go. Can be said as among the best for people who are just starting up, are serious but don’t want much mess, just a machine that brews perfectly. It doesn’t costs much and has straight controls combined with features that are actually important. The latest update has added some marvelous colors to suit your lifestyle.

Features and Specifications

  • Compact sleek design
  • Can use ESE pods or pre-ground coffee
  • 72 Oz high capacity water reservoir
  • Separate thermostats to maintain temperatures of water and steam
  • Built-in safety switch to turn the boiler off in case of malfunction
  • Durable professional-grade stainless steel
  • Pannarello steam wand for professional perfect foam
  • Hot water dispensing for hot chocolate or Americanos
  • Warming top for keeping cups hot
  • Comes with a portafilter, single and double shot basket, espresso tamper, and measuring scoop

Whether you choose to entertain friends or simply indulge in your favorite coffee shop beverage at home, the Gaggia Classic Pro is a perfect balance between quality and budget that will enable you to make café-quality espresso drinks in the comfort of your own home. Don’t forget to put out a tip jar! It looks like a traditional espresso machine but does a very decent job.

Read our complete review about Gaggia Classic

7. Breville Duo-Temp Pro – Best Easy-to-use Espresso Machine

Breville Duo Temp Pro Espresso Machine,61...
  • Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide...
  • AUTO PURGE: The Duo-Temp Pro Espresso Machine automatically...
  • The Breville Duo Temp Pro lets you create third wave...
  • PRECISE ESPRESSO EXTRACTION: Low pressure pre-infusion helps...

Breville Duo-Temp is a mid-range affordable machine for budding home baristas who are looking to upgrade. In many aspects, it resembles the Infuser but is a tad different. It may also be a good first machine if you’re already a bit familiar with the extraction process. You can even spot this machine in a few small to medium-sized cafes for pulling an excellent shot. Many people have been using it for a long and are all satisfied with the performance. For us, this one is the best home espresso machine that comes with a feasible price tag and doesn’t compromise on performance.

Features and Specifications

  • Stainless steel thermocoil
  • Brushed Stainless Steel
  • 61-ounce water reservoir with built-in filter
  • Very fast warm-up
  • Pre – infusion
  • Comes with pressurized and non-pressurized baskets
  • Cup warmer
  • 15 bar of pressure pump
  • PID for ideal temperature control
  • Accessories include stainless steel pitcher, fallen key, water filter, and its holder

First of all, this Breville machine is a definite step up from the entry-level models. The precision of the PID temperature stability controller combined with pre-infusion allows you to get optimal results. Pressurized filter baskets make it easy to get good crema even if your grind and tamp are not perfect. With the Breville Duo-Temp, you can also start to work on your skills by using non-pressurized baskets. They require a bit better technique, but most people agree that they make a better end product.

Maybe the biggest difference between this model and the high-end machines is the lack of programmability. With the Duo-Temp, you even have to manually stop the brewing process. If you care more about the underlying quality of the machine than about programmability, this model offers excellent value for money. You can call it the most desirable espresso machine, which is both affordable and is durable on built quality!

Read our complete review about Breville-Duo Temp

8. Rancilio Silvia – Best Built Espresso Machine

Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machinet,0.3 liters,...
  • Ergonomic porta filter handle same as the proven design of...
  • Commercial grade group head for superb heat stability and...
  • Articulating steam wand offers complete range of motion and...
  • Classic linear design fits most decors

This is not a machine for beginners, but if you’re experienced at pulling shots of espresso, you will love the results with this machine. The machine is priced around $750 which is the most feasible price bracket among the high-grade espresso machines. It is designed beautifully using brushed stainless steel that looks good on any countertop.

Rancilio can be found in many homes and even small cafes as it pulls a wonderful shot, always. What’s more, the descaling is easy for smaller machines like this. Just grab the recommended descaling solution and follow the easy-to-use instruction manual.

Features and Specifications

  • 67-ounce water reservoir
  • Chrome-plated commercial-grade steam wand
  • 15 bar pump
  • Brushed stainless steel finish
  • Commercial grade group head
  • Chrome-plated brass portafilter
  • 12-ounce brass boiler
  • Three thermostats separately monitor steam pressure, boiler, and espresso temperature
  • 3-way solenoid valve for easy clean-up

The Silvia is intended for residential use, but it includes many of the same features as Rancilio’s commercial machines and that is why many small cafes have been using it for pulling quality shots. The group head, portafilter, and boiler are all made up of solid brass, and the powerful steam wand is also commercial-grade. The portafilter handle has the same ergonomic design found in the commercial models too.

What really separates this model from the commercial espresso machines is its single boiler design. Because it can’t froth and pull shots back to back, you can’t produce a lot of drinks in a short amount of time like in commercial models.

The Silvia is a bit unforgiving when it comes to the consistency of grind and tamps. But if you’ve got the skills to deal with it, this machine will give commercial quality espresso at a more affordable price. It comes at a price higher than its category due to the quality parts used, but the brand should have included at least a quality milk pitcher for a complete espresso set.

Note – Always try to use an espresso knock box to puck the used grounds instead of throwing them in the dustbin. This will save your bin from hard knocks that can damage it. To your knowledge, there are many uses of those grounds such as using as compost or as a deodorizer in the refrigerator.

9. Breville Barista Express BES870XL – Best Café-Style Espresso Machine

Sale
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine...
  • Earn up to $200 cashback with a Beanz coffee subscription...
  • The Breville Barista Express delivers third wave specialty...
  • DOSE CONTROL GRINDING: Integrated precision conical burr...
  • OPTIMAL WATER PRESSURE: Low pressure pre-infusion gradually...

Breville Barista Express has gained the brand a lot of popularity among espresso lovers over years with its exceptional performance year after year. It’s a semi-automatic machine that has enough controls to make you feel like a real barista at home. What’s more, the output that comes from this machine is amazingly well and better than its competitors including super automatics too.

Features and Specifications

  • Dimensions : 5 x 13.25 x 15.75 in
  • Weighs: 23 lbs
  • Brushed stainless steel finish
  • 1600W Thermo coil heating system
  • 15 bar Italian Pump pressure
  • Integrated Conical burr grinder at the top
  • Grind Size settings from Coarse to fine
  • Customizable settings
  • Grind amount selector
  • Built-in Pressure gauge at the center
  • 54 mm magnetic tamper
  • ½ lb bean hopper
  • 2 Liter large water tank
  • 360 degree swivel action steam wand
  • Cleaning indicator
  • Purge function for optimal water temperature
  • Includes dual wall filters for learners and a single wall for experienced
  • Comes with a Stainless Steel Portafilter
  • Accessories include Measuring Scoop, Tamper, Stainless Steel Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Cleaning Tablets, Brush Tool & Allen Key, Water Filter & Filter Holder
  • Hideaway storage department for cleaning kit and filters
  • Removable Drip Tray

Have Café-Quality Espresso Drinks At Home

Brewing with Barista Express is fun at home and making delicious espresso requires some understanding about the preparation. Before buying this machine, you should acquire some basic knowledge about pulling a shot, tamping, and steaming. Once you are familiar with these, Breville BES870XL is going to be a great companion at home for producing professional drinks. Whether you want to make a cappuccino or a flat white, this product has all features to serve you well. Its stainless steel body makes it durable for the long term and the design is elegantly well.

What’s more, it comes with all the required accessories like a tamper, filters, and a milk pitcher to begin right away.

Read our complete review about Breville Barista Espresso Machine

10. Breville Dual Boiler BES920XL- Best in Features

Breville BES920XL Dual Boiler Espresso...
  • Earn up to $200 cashback with a Beanz coffee subscription...
  • The Breville Dual Boiler with commercial features delivers...
  • DOSE CONTROL GRINDING: Achieve a consistent and balanced...
  • OPTIMAL WATER PRESSURE: The Over Pressure Valve limits the...

Another great option is the Breville BES920XL for those who are really serious about their cup of espresso. Due to a high price, this option is mostly neglected but is the best pick if you’re willing to pay more for the added functionality. The dual boiler design allows for a shorter extraction time. We have kept this machine in almost the last positions due to the pricing part and nothing else.

Features and Specifications

  • Stainless steel double boiler
  • Brushed Stainless Steel Finish
  • 84-ounce water tank
  • Pressure Gauge
  • Programmable shot volume and digital temperature control
  • Pressurized and non-pressurized filter baskets
  • Cup warmer
  • Separate hot water dispenser
  • Automatic on and shut-off
  • Pre-infusion
  • Over-pressure valve limits extraction pressure
  • Comes with a frothing pitcher
  • PID temperature control

It’s right there in the name – dual boilers mean that they can steam and pull shots simultaneously and have temperature stability. This may not sound that important when you’re just making yourself a morning latte, but if there are guests over and everyone wants a cappuccino, it saves a lot of time. Moreover, the temperature is more stable when pulling shots which paves the way for quality drinks.

Both the Breville models reviewed here come with tampers that attach magnetically to the slot provided in the machine. Most of the brands provide useless little plastic tampers, but Breville actually binds a decent solid metal tamper with its products.

The programming options in this machine allow adjusting the length and temperature of the shot, as well as automatic on and off times for the machine. This one is a great companion for home if you’ve got a bigger budget and want a fast, high-quality machine with plenty of bells and whistles. Also, Breville is a company that puts a lot of care into the details. The product comes packed with necessary accessories like a milk pitcher, stainless steel tamper, and filters to start pulling right away.

Read our complete review about Breville Dual-Boiler Espresso Machine

11. Nuova Simonelli Oscar 2 – Best Professional Espresso Maker

Nuova Simonelli Oscar II Pour-Over Espresso...
  • New material, new design Among the new features of Oscar II...
  • Compact At only 30 cm, Oscar is able to work in both a home...
  • Perfect extractions The brewing unit is temperature...
  • Professional Oscar enables the production of espressos or...

Learn the art of pulling shots by a professional barista with the Nuova Simonelli Oscar 2. It is considered as a benchmark for home and small cafeterias by experienced coffee lovers. The solid design and direct water connection mean this model can function in an industrial capacity, making it a perfect choice for small coffee shop owners. Though it costs around an automatic espresso machine, the price is still worth the quality of drinks you get from it.

Features and Specifications

  • Professional quality portafilter that is used in commercial machines
  • Heat exchanger with the same efficiency as a double boiler at a fraction of the cost
  • Uncomplicated perfection, only two buttons, and steam control
  • Spacious water reservoir of 2.3-liter
  • Direct water option to connect the machine to your water line
  • Warming platform at the top to warm cups
  • Removable drip tray for easy cleaning
  • Industrial strength solid construction

Whether you use the Nuova Simonelli Oscar 2 at your coffee shop or in the comfort of your own home, you can be sure of barista-quality lattes and cappuccinos with this high-performing gear. Grab an apron and get started!

Read our complete review about Nuova Simonelli Oscar II

Things to Consider to Buy the Best Espresso Machine

It can be a tricky process to find your perfect espresso machine from the numerous models in the market. We have written this buying guide to introduce you to the most important aspects to consider when buying one. These parameters actually affect the quality of shots and that’s why are important to think about.

To help narrow down the choice among the Espresso Machines, first of all, ask yourself a few questions:

How much are you able or willing to spend?
How much space do you have?
Do you have any experience pulling espresso shots?
How often do you drink espresso-based drinks?

Once you have a better handle on the priorities, it’s time to take a look at a few models, that are considered to be the best picks.

Below are some important aspects or parameters to pay attention to!

Pump vs Steam

When it comes to choosing an espresso machine, there are two types of mechanisms: Steam or Pump powered.

Even though there is a use of higher temperatures in steam espresso machines, they are not very good at creating the golden brown foamy layer or crema – something that is the main characteristic of most espresso drinks. Given that high temperatures are used, the machine can produce burnt-tasting drinks.

Pump espresso makers use a thermo-block system enabling them to produce 15 or more bars of ideal pressure. The thermo-block system produces perfect crema and the steam that is required for making enjoyable cappuccinos and lattes.

It is recommended to choose pump espresso machines over steam because they produce much better café quality espresso flavors. The pressure they produce is adequate for a good espresso. According to the Italian Espresso National Institute, a minimum of nine bars of pressure is necessary as it reduces the brewing time to under 30 seconds. However, you must know that steam-powered machines are more affordable than pump machines.

In the above selection, all the machines listed are pump-driven.

You might like to read: How do an Espresso Machine works?

Portafilter

It is an essential component of any espresso machine that holds the ground beans before and during the entire brewing process. All machines (manual, semi, and super) have a portafilter.

There are different kinds of portafilters in the market such as pressurized portafilters, non-pressurized portafilters, and pod portafilters. If you are a hands-on type of person, it is recommended to have the non-pressurized type and if you don’t like a lot of fuss, it is best to choose pressurized portafilters.

Boiler – Single or Double

You have to decide whether to buy a machine with a single or a double-boiler. The single-boiler is a sealed metal container that boils the water for a shot and also produces the right temperature for the steam used in frothing.

Double boiler, as the name implies, has dual boilers and is deemed as the best in producing a quality result. Espresso machines that have double boilers work independently as one works for pulling espresso shots while the other one works for steam for milk. So, the best part is one can work on both processes simultaneously saving time.

It is recommended to choose the machine with dual boilers whenever the budget allows. They not only provide better results but also eliminate the waiting period between steaming and espresso sessions.

Precise Water Heating

When it comes to achieving precise heating, semi and super-automatic espresso machines are the best at it. However, in a manual espresso machine, the user has to control the use of water in the shot and the best thing about manual machines is that we can introduce extra water as well.

There is a cavity in the group-head in both manual machines that fill up with hot boiling water once the lever is fully engaged. As the lever is pushed, the slightly elevated pressure of both boilers moves water to the overhead, it happens as a result of valve opening between the group-head and boiler.

Steam Wand

The frothing device of an espresso machine is the steam wand. It has a valve on it that releases pressurized steam. You should check the bottom of the wand that has a tip with a small hole or multiple small holes.

Water Reservoir Size

Most of the espresso machines have in-built water reservoirs that allow to easily pull 6-10 shots. However, the reservoir size depends on the brand and the machine. With semi and super-automatic machines, the reservoir size is much bigger as compared to manual machines.

Features

Plumbing (Direct Water Connection)

Most commercial and pro-consumer espresso machines come with the direct water connection feature. There is a general opinion that tap water shouldn’t be used. But it all depends on whether you need a machine with this feature or not.

Digital Display

You can usually find the digital display on expensive machines e.g. super-automatics. With a digital display, it all becomes more convenient for the user. If you are into making espresso without any fuss at all, you should go with one that is equipped with a digital display. You can even have digital temperature control for more precise pulling off your favorite shots.

Pre-infusion

If you ask any coffee expert, he will tell you that one of the biggest factors in producing a perfect shot of espresso is pre-infusion. Given that the users of automatic and semi-automatics have no control over how long the water sits over the bed of coffee ground, spring-piston lever and direct lever machines (manual espresso makers)give you this control.

Typically, there is 1.2 to 1.4 bar boiler pressure in the spring piston lever machine. However, the most important part is how you take the best advantage of pre-infusion. This means that you need to keep a close eye on the coffee grind, dose, temperature of the water, and almost everything that plays a role a making espresso.

Programmability

Some machines allow to program some features like the length of extraction, what buttons do what, shot time, how much water to pull, and a few more. If a machine has programmable options, one can customize a few parameters as per his preference.

Integrated Grinder

A built-in grinder ensures that you get freshly ground coffee for an optimal shot of espresso whenever you need it. Machines with integrated coffee grinder are highly recommended to those people who are conscious about the freshness and taste of their hot beverage. Most of the automatic espresso machines come with built-in grinders.

However, if there is no integrated grinder in the espresso machine, you can obviously buy a separate one as the one that comes in-built has very minimum grind size settings.

You might like to read: Best Coffee Grinders for Espresso

Machine Size

Manual espresso machines are not big and do not take too much counter space. However, semi-automatic and super-automatics can take extra counter space. Still, few semi-automatics like Gaggia classic pro, Hamilton Beach and Breville Duo-temp are designed sleek than the others.

Easy to Use Interface

Be it manual, semi, or super-machines, the first-timers will find it a bit tricky to use the machine. However, the interface of most is quite easy to understand and use. Needless to say, patience and practice are the requirements to use these machines.

Wrapping It Up

Finally, which among the above is the best espresso machine for the home? Obviously, this is going to be a personal choice depending on your own needs, budget and priorities. To ease, we have picked up the top machines in which you can easily find your very best one!

For beginners or basic use, the overall best value for money is the Breville Duo-Temp. If you’re not concerned about programming options and don’t mind manually timing the length of the shot, you are getting a really good machine for just a few hundred bucks. The choice of pressurized or non-pressurized baskets is great if you’re just starting out but want to improve your skills over time.

Additionally, the Rancilio Silvia is great for experienced people who want the quality and feel of a commercial model at home. Also, the solid brass construction of the group head and other key parts means that you will enjoy this machine for years to come.

Moreover, if you are looking to be caught up with professional barista skills, Nuova Simonelli Oscar Pour Over and Breville Barista Express are the best options. They will cost on the higher side, and the reason for the higher cost is precision and a big pack of features.


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