The Best Espresso Machines for Beginners, by Budget
Your first espresso machine does not need to be the most expensive one. It needs to match how much effort you want to put in every morning. Here are four of the most popular, best-rated machines on Amazon, from the simplest to the most complete.
How we pick: popular products with strong Amazon ratings and lots of reviews. We haven't tested these ourselves, and we say so. We never post prices because they change: check today's price on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
De'Longhi Stilosa
A compact manual espresso machine with a portafilter and a steam wand for cappuccinos. One of the best-selling starter machines on Amazon, with more than 13,000 ratings.
- Good for
- You want real espresso on a small counter and you don't mind learning a few steps.
- Keep in mind
- There is no grinder: buy pre-ground espresso coffee or add a burr grinder.
Gevi Espresso Machine with Grinder
A 20-bar espresso machine with a built-in grinder and a steam wand, so you go from beans to cup with one machine.
- Good for
- You want fresh-ground coffee without buying a separate grinder.
- Keep in mind
- A newer brand with fewer reviews than the big names (about 1,600 ratings).
Breville Barista Express
The home espresso machine with a built-in conical burr grinder that many home baristas start with. Nearly 28,000 ratings and still one of the best sellers.
- Good for
- You want café-style control: grind size, dose and milk texture.
- Keep in mind
- There is a learning curve, and it takes more counter space.
Ninja Luxe Café Premier
Espresso, drip coffee and cold brew from one machine, with a built-in grinder and hands-free milk frothing.
- Good for
- Your household drinks different kinds of coffee and wants it easy.
- Keep in mind
- It does a lot of things, so it is big. Check your space under the cabinets.