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Tired of buying exorbitantly priced lattes? You need an espresso machine. After researching hundreds of models on the market, we bought 10 of the best espresso machines to test side-by-side. Our testing is based on five key metrics: We pulled hundreds of shots, steamed gallons of milk, crafted countless cappuccinos, cleaned and dialed in dozens of machines, and read each user manual. Our comprehensive team included professional baristas, food science experts, and a large panel of taste testers who have been refining our extensive test plan since 2017. So, whether you want the fastest and most convenient home espresso or are willing to put in a little work to perfect your barista skills, we can help you find the right machine for your needs.
Not ready to splurge on an espresso machine, or want a simpler option? We've tested various types of top-rated coffee makers and accessories. Check out our picks for the best french presses and the best pour over coffee maker. And, if you end up purchasing an espresso machine that doesn't come with a grinder, we've also tested some of the top coffee grinders on the market and selected our favorites.
Editor's Note: We updated this review on May 27, 2024, to include additional award winners and provide more specific details from our testing team.
Portafilter Size: 54 mm | Water Tank Capacity: 66 oz
REASONS TO BUY
Solid craftsmanship
Top-notch espresso production
Versatile controls
Integrated grinder
Easy to use
REASONS TO AVOID
More expensive
Takes time to master
Slow grinder
The Breville Barista Express is our favorite because it offers everything you need to create quality espresso shots, cappuccinos, and other coffee drinks. It grinds, pulls, steams, and offers a ton of freedom for the barista who likes to experiment with different roasts and brewing options. The Barista Express produces top-notch espresso that our testers describe as having “sweet undertones and rich, beautiful crema.” It also boasts the best steam wand of all the machines in our lineup. Even better, a slew of preset functions make it a friendly option for beginners.
Our favorite feature is this unit's ability to maintain pressure and heat — even while producing back-to-back brews. Consistent pressure is crucial when it comes to both the infusion process and the steaming function, allowing the machine to pull better shots and create better microfoam.
Having reliable pressure for both of these functions makes this unit a perfect choice for entertaining friends or for a family of java junkies vying for their morning fix. In general, the Barista Express is more suited for users who have some experience, but even if you are a brand new home barista, it could be worth the learning curve. It's user-friendly enough to accommodate newcomers who have the time, desire, and patience to master its nuances, and our tester predicts that “most users will feel confident and be pulling great shots after making 20-40 drinks on the machine.”
This semi-automatic machine has an inherent learning curve thanks to more custom options and a slightly more complicated interface. Its grinder is a little slow, but it does offer 16 settings. When it comes to cleaning and maintenance, this unit requires a little more pampering compared to some other machines we tested. And, the obvious elephant in the room is the price tag attached to the Barista Express. However, if you're willing to invest a little extra cash, you won't be disappointed. We recommend comparing it to the De'Longhi La Specialista Arte. The Specialista Arte didn't receive an award, but we still love it. It's also an all-in-one machine that is very user-friendly. Also, if you're solely laser-focused on espresso quality, the La Pavoni and Rancilio Silvia were our top producers, but both come with trade-offs to consider.
Portafilter Size: 54 mm | Water Tank Capacity: 47 oz
REASONS TO BUY
Decent espresso quality
Smaller size
Produces great microfoam
REASONS TO AVOID
No built-in grinder
Dinky tamp
The Breville Bambino does exactly what an espresso machine should: it pulls a great shot. While it doesn't necessarily compare to the most tricked-out models in our review, we were still impressed with the quality of the espresso produced by this machine. And in this price range, you will be hard-pressed to find something that comes closer to making a cafe quality latte. Our reviewers ranked it as one of the easiest machines to use, and it has a small space-saving design that is good for those short on counter space. Although it might not be the best espresso we've had in our lab, it certainly is the best you will get for this price. Tester Michelle Powell says, “Even picky coffee drinkers are going to be more than satisfied with this little workhorse.”
Espresso aside, one of our favorite features of the Bambino is the steam wand. Our testers with barista experience appreciated that the wand is fully manual and allows for more experimentation with angles and techniques needed to get a perfectly smooth microfoam. It has a powerful and consistent stream that produces beautiful results again and again, and our tester remarks that “As long as you're willing to go through the effort of manual milk steaming, this machine can get you cafe-quality results.”
This model is more affordable than most espresso machines on the market, and it lacks some accessories that come included in higher-end machines (namely a good bean grinder). However, it produces espresso that is quite a few steps up from other budget options we have tested and overall impressed our review team. It is great for users who already have some of their coffee supplies lined up and want to round out their coffee-making arsenal. If you appreciate good coffee but like to switch up your daily brew between espresso, pour-over, and French press methods, the Breville Bambino could be a good supplementary machine that saves space and a few bucks compared to other models.
While the Bambino is truly a great machine for the price, we do wish it came with a grinder. Purchasing a separate bean grinder means spending more and using more counter space. And depending on the grinder you purchase, it could almost negate the savings of the affordable Bambino. However, if you already have a grinder that you like at home, then a smaller and cheaper machine could be a plus for you. Lastly, we weren't huge fans of the plastic tamp that came included, but this is easy to replace with a heavier-weight metal one if it bothers you. If price is your number one consideration, and the Bambino still feels out of budget, the De'Longhi Stilosa is one of the most affordable options we tested, but you pay for it with lower-quality shots. If you want a great home espresso without spending a bajillion dollars on your machine, the Breville Bambino is our top recommendation.
Portafilter Size: 51 mm | Water Tank Capacity: 34 oz
REASONS TO BUY
Appealing price tag
Compact
Simple to operate
REASONS TO AVOID
Subpar microfoam production
Slow to heat up
Lower capacity
Though it may not come with all the superior features of expensive machines, the De'Longhi Stilosa is still a serious bargain compared to the rest of the machines we tested and most others available on the market. This unit is well-built, easy to use, and it doesn't take up a ton of counter space. It also has one of the cheapest per-shot costs of our entire lineup, so it will save you a decent amount of dough if you bypass the local café and turn to the Stilosa instead for your caffeine fix.
Our favorite thing about this unit is its affordability, but unfortunately, that's about it. It comes with a slew of trade-offs and didn't score very well against many of our metrics. That said, it's good enough for the basics and will get the job done. Our testers comment that if you are “willing to look past this machine's drawbacks, the Stilosa still boasts a very appealing price point.” Especially if you consistently use it over time, it is one of the most cost-effective machines in our review when looking at lifetime cost per shot.
Espresso enthusiasts who seek the ability to create lattes at home but who want to stay within a tight budget will be happy with the Stilosa, with our testers recommending this machine to the espresso-curious, saying “this unit is great for dipping your toes in without paying a premium.” We feel it will also appeal to students or any other coffee lover who is trying to pinch a penny.
The Stilosa ekes out so-so espresso, doesn't produce very good microfoam, and lacks a built-in grinder. Its water tank is quite small, so it isn't ideal for pulling back-to-back shots, and it's a bit high-maintenance when it comes to cleaning and other routine upkeep. The Flair Classic also has a very reasonable price tag, but its bare-bones design is nonelectric and requires a fair amount of skill. We also recommend the Breville Bambino for those looking for a better-quality option and are willing to invest a bit more.
Despite its incredibly low price compared to other machines, the Stilosa pulled acceptable shots of espresso, though its extraction yield was lower than we would have liked. That said, we think this is a great entry-level budget espresso machine until you are willing and able to make a big investment.
Portafilter Size: 58 mm | Water Tank Capacity: 76 oz
REASONS TO BUY
Near-perfect espresso
Very versatile
REASONS TO AVOID
Pricey
Inconsistent heat production
Delivering flawless espresso shots is what the Rancilio Silvia does best. Its brews were fan favorites of our hand-picked taste-testing panel, one of whom remarked, “If you tasted a shot from this machine and a shot from your favorite coffee shop side by side, we doubt you'd be able to tell the difference.” The Silvia gives the user ultimate control over the entire infusion process. This results in heavenly espresso, but it also requires a solid knowledge of the intricacies of pulling a shot, so you'll need skill to dial in this machine.
Next to its top-notch espresso, we absolutely loved this model's clean industrial look, old-school rocker switches, and rugged design. Its functions are straightforward, easy to understand, and allow for an endless amount of customization and experimentation, and “when used well,” our tester notes, “the results are spectacular.”
We think experienced baristas will “get” this machine and be drawn to the ultimate freedom it gives them. It will also appeal to brew masters who are ultra-focused on espresso quality. However, the Silvia has a fair amount of oddities that may annoy and frustrate both serious and casual users. However, our lead tester, Lesley Robinson says the “The Silvia is perfect for those who don't mind looking past this machine's annoying quirks in order to keep their eye on the prize — the ability to produce amazing, cafe-quality espresso.”
This unit lacks a built-in grinder, so if you don't already own one, you'll be shelling out additional funds to outfit your home cafe. The Silvia is already expensive, so this extra cost needs to be considered. Additionally, its steam wand is unforgiving of those who don't have a lot of experience steaming milk. Lastly, it lacks a pressure gauge, its drip tray is super shallow, and it requires a ton of experience to achieve the best brewing results. However, if you're skilled — or are willing to learn — you have VIP access to top-grade espresso. If the level of expertise this machine requires doesn't appeal to you, take a look at the Breville Bambino or its older sister, the Breville Barista Express. Both are semi-automatic machines that can produce great-quality espresso at the push of a button.
Portafilter Size: 54 mm | Water Tank Capacity: 64 oz
REASONS TO BUY
Pulls solid shots
Compact
Tons of accessories
Auto milk steamer
REASONS TO AVOID
No grinder
Steam wand doesn't adjust well
Lacks built-in storage for accessories
The Breville Bambino Plus is “The Little Engine That Could” of the espresso machine world. It's super compact, easy to use, and it produces espresso and microfoam equal to (or better than) the larger more expensive machines in our review. It steams and foams milk at the push of a button, pulls shots just as easily, and comfortably stores behind a cupboard door, giving it a space-saving edge over larger machines.
We like nearly everything about the Bambino Plus, but our most-loved feature is its automatic steam wand. Simply fill the milk pitcher, place it under the wand, and press a button. The machine does everything else. This feature is ideal for newbies or on-the-go early risers who want a fully adorned latte but who don't want the hassle of whipping up microfoam on their own.
We think this bantamweight brewer's push-button conveniences and automatic steam wand are perfect for beginners. “Simple, intuitive, and beginner-friendly are perfect adjectives for the Bambino Plus,” says tester Lesley Robinson. Its smaller size will also appeal to apartment dwellers, RVers, those living the van life, or anyone else who needs to maximize space.
As for negatives, the Bambino Plus doesn't include an integrated grinder, so you'll need to factor this into your budget — and your shelf space. It ships with a ton of cool accessories, but doesn't offer any built-in storage for them. Lastly, the drip tray is very small, and the Bambino Plus's espresso is very good but not great. However, as a whole, our review team agrees that this is an amazing machine and is a “perfect companion that can produce good-tasting shots and decent steamed milk and foams, all for a reasonable price,” especially for those who prefer a compact model. If you'd rather pull your own shots with a manual-style lever, you may be drawn to the La Pavoni. This pricey unit appeals to coffee lovers who want to showcase appliances that add flare to their kitchen. However, the La Pavoni is more than show. It produced some of the best shots of all the models in our lineup. If you want a manual model for a fraction of the price, the original Breville Bambino is just the ticket.
Portafilter Size: 40 mm | Water Tank Capacity: N/A
REASONS TO BUY
Easily stored
Great price
Produces great espresso
Does not require descaling
No electricity needed
Includes travel case
REASONS TO AVOID
Super basic
Manual lever requires strength
Lacks grinder and steamer
Water separately heated
If you love the art of making espresso as much as you love the brew itself, the fully manual Flair Classic is worth adding to your shortlist. Although extremely basic, this fully manual, single-shot machine actually gives the crafter infinite control of every step of the infusion process (heat, pressure, and time). This allows for a broad range of experimentation and customization. Additionally, the Flair Classic is super portable and packs away in its own carrying case, making it our top choice for travel.
Great espresso production and a super easy clean-up routine are what we like most about the Flair Classic. Although, it lacks the conveniences of electric espresso machines, the old-school press brewer excels at pulling beautiful shots. And, when it comes to kitchen duty, generally, a simple rinse under the sink is all that is required. Our testing team comments, “Our favorite feature is that it doesn't need to be cleaned with soaps, detergents, or chemicals.” So, if keeping your cleanup routine is as important to you as great-tasting espresso, you won't be disappointed by the Flair.
The Flair Classic will appeal to adventurists who are looking for an espresso machine to take car camping, throw in a carry-on bag, or store in an RV or travel van. It will also be a top pick for traditionalists who enjoy making espresso in the old-fashioned way. Simply put, our testers say, “If you enjoy espresso, this machine will hit the spot.”
The Flair Classic is far from perfect. It doesn't grind, heat, or steam. It doesn't have its own water tank, requires some muscle, and involves a fair amount of assembly each time you set it up. Lastly, it doesn't easily produce back-to-back shots. However, those who want a travel buddy or who are drawn to the true craft of espresso-making will easily forgive these setbacks. Pulling shots by the lever is a traditional experience that gives you a little more control over your espresso quality, and tester Lesley Robinson says that “with a little time and effort, you can dial in a near-perfect shot.” If you like the idea of pulling your own shots but want a machine that also includes a steam wand, you'll love the La Pavoni. But, if you'd rather push a button, the Breville Barista Express is a great option — it's widely mentioned throughout this entire review for good reason.
The portable Flair Classic is simple yet elegant in its operation.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Compare Products
We tested each espresso machine side by side for direct comparison.
Credit: Lesley Robinson
How We Test Espresso Machines
We assembled a stellar team for this review. Our mission was to extensively examine our espresso makers — individually, and side by side — to determine their finest features, strongest executions, and best applications. To do this, we enlisted the help of professional baristas and appliance experts. We also recruited a diverse panel of coffee lovers to serve as guinea pigs during several rounds of taste testing. Since 2017, we have pulled hundreds of shots, steamed gallons of milk, and whipped up countless cappuccinos and lattes. We even used a refractometer to determine each shot's extraction yield. Then, we scrutinized the user-friendliness of each machine, including maintenance and cleaning. Our end goal was to determine which was best, and ultimately help you purchase the right espresso machine for you.
Our espresso machine testing was divided across five rating metrics:
Espresso Quality (40% of overall score weighting)
Ease of Use (20% weighting)
Ease of Cleaning (15% weighting)
Milk Steaming (15% weighting)
Machine Customization (10% weighting)
The extraction yield of each shot was measured with a refractometer. Our tastebuds also weighed in.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Why Trust GearLab
Having made tens of thousands of lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos, Michelle Powell was the cornerstone of our espresso machine testing and evaluation. Michelle dove into the world of analytical research while earning her B.A. in Cultural Anthropology at UC Santa Cruz. Over the years since, she has racked up more than a decade's worth of work experience in the specialty coffee industry, including training with such hallmark establishments as Blue Bottle and Four Barrel, and even competing multiple times in the Southwest Regional Barista Competition.
Our in-house researcher, Lesley Robinson, holds a Food Science Degree from California Polytechnic State University. She brings a wealth of knowledge of all-things-food-and-appliances to our team. Lesley spent the last decade of her career in the food and supplement industry, working with a diverse range of products. She also has extensive experience in quality assurance and food safety. Her commitment to quality gives her a unique perspective when it comes to testing the latest kitchen tech products.
Reviewer Jason Wanlass joined GearLab as a freelance writer and gear reviewer more than seven years ago. An avid adventurist and former journalist, he has tested hundreds of products and written countless reviews for our team. He has a passion for cooking and all things in the kitchen. His extensive work with GearLab gives Jason an eye for detail and the ability to find the little things that make a product great.
Brewing beautiful espresso with rich, golden crema.
Steaming perfect microfoam.
The refractometer we used in our testing.
We evaluated each machine on its ability to perform against five metrics. We studied several angles, including each unit's ability to effectively complete each step of the cappuccino process.
How to Pick the Best Espresso Machine
We bought and tested each and every unit in our lineup to help you choose the best espresso machine for your home.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
What is an Espresso Machine?
An espresso machine is different from a coffee machine in that it specifically brews espresso (also known as pulling a shot). Whereas coffee machines brew larger amounts of coffee by allowing heated water to trickle through loose grounds, espresso machines use more heat and pressure to force smaller amounts of heated water through a tightly compressed puck of grounds. The result is a more concentrated dose of coffee (a few ounces) called espresso. Espresso comes with a bolder flavor and a much higher caffeine content. During extraction (brewing), the espresso grounds are held in place by a small metal cup, called a filter basket. The filter basket is supported and manually locked into the espresso machine by the use of a handheld device called a portafilter. The portafilter is the most commonly recognized feature of any espresso machine. Espresso is still coffee; however, espresso beans are often roasted longer (dark roast), and they have a finer grind, necessary for brewing espresso.
Simply push down on the portafilter and the Calphalon Temp IQ grinds your espresso beans.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Do I Need One?
Due to its darker roast and brewing process, espresso has a much bolder taste and more dense consistency than regular coffee. So, the first thing to consider before purchasing an espresso machine is whether or not you enjoy espresso. Additionally, whereas coffee brewing is generally a very passive process, espresso brewing can be more involved. It requires precision, knowledge, and effort to produce just a few ounces of espresso. The extra steps involved in making espresso (including a fair amount of cleanup and routine machine maintenance) should also be considered before purchasing such an expensive appliance. Lastly, if you're set on an espresso machine but are tired of the extra time and money your favorite coffee shop requires of you, an espresso machine can be a very wise purchase that will eventually save you a lot of money in the long run.
The final stages of pulling an espresso shot. Liquid espresso is dark, has a bold flavor, and is topped with a golden foamy layer called crema, which is generally produced at the tail end of the brewing cycle (seen here).
Credit: Natalie Kafader
What Types of Drinks Does an Espresso Machine Make?
Most espresso machines come equipped to help you produce a variety of espresso-based drinks. The most common are: espresso shots (single or double) and lattes (espresso mixed with steamed milk and a layer of foam). Other drinks produced by an espresso machine include: cappuccinos, espresso macchiatos, Americanos, and mochas. However, there are many more. The cappuccino and latte are the most recognized espresso drinks, widely loved for their foam and latte art. Espresso machines consist of a group head and portafilter (the main brewing components). Many machines (but not all) also include a built-in steam wand, which is used to steam milk.
The best espresso machines produce microfoam that is perfect for latte art.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Which Machine is Right For Me?
The answer to this question is based on how much involvement you want to have in producing your favorite espresso drinks. As stated, espresso brewing is an involved process, so regardless, you're going to put in a little work. However, some machines make it easier than others — but sometimes this convenience can be at the sacrifice of quality. Most espresso machines are either automatic or semi-automatic. Generally, the difference between the two is that automatic machines can steam milk automatically and come with more preset brewing options than semi-auto machines. Semi-auto machines also require the user to have a decent set of barista skills since they give more control to the user during the brewing process (which can result in amazing espresso or horrible espresso, depending on skill level). Additionally, there are lever-based machines, which hold to the traditional espresso-brewing process. These machines require an even higher level of skill because they require the user to control the pressure and time of the brewing process with the pull of a lever — it sounds simple, but it's not. In the end, choosing the right espresso machine is often based on your skill level and desire for convenience. The very best machines will accommodate both considerations but will also come with the highest price tag.
An example of a traditional lever-operated espresso machine. Instead of switches and buttons, it uses a pull-lever to infuse the puck with water and extract the coffee into the espresso shot.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Analysis and Test Results
Making quality espresso in your home is easier than ever before. Generally, we divide our espresso machines into two categories: those that value convenience over taste and those that value taste over all else. The best machines excel at both. In this section, we highlight the top performers in each metric, including units that might not have received an award but still excel in one particular area.
What's the Best Value?
Good espresso doesn't come cheap, so determining value can be tricky. Our testing model emphasizes espresso quality, so we placed more value on machines that produced the best tasting shots. Although we did find a few inexpensive machines, most in-home espresso machines have a hefty price tag. However, in determining value, it's important to consider that these machines can produce a shot of espresso for much less than you'd pay for at a cafe. When you do the math, even the most expensive units can recoup their cost within the first year or two if regularly used.
Based on our testing, the machines that offer the most value are the Breville Barista Express, Rancilio Silvia, Breville Bambino Plus, and the Flair Classic. Each produces solid espresso for their price. Additionally, we feel the De'Longhi Stilosa is a great value (based on price); however, it's espresso quality doesn't rank as high as the others.
Testing the Breville Barista Express during our timed espresso tests. In terms of total value, this unit ranks the highest.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Espresso Quality
This is the most heavily weighted metric in our testing model. It accounts for a whopping 40 percent of each model's total score. It goes without saying why we selected this metric as our heaviest hitter, but we'll say it anyway: flavor, mouthfeel, and appearance are crucial.
For our testing, we first assembled a tasting panel made up of a diverse group of coffee enthusiasts (including our own professional baristas and food science experts) and had them taste-test the espresso from each machine. We ask them to score each shot based on its flavor, texture, and overall appearance. We then turned to a bit of science, and with the help of a refractometer, we determined the extraction yield of each brew.
The industry standard for extraction yield is 18 to 22%. Only a handful of models met this caliber.
Credit: Lesley Robinson
Based on espresso's taste, our top performing units in this metric were the Rancilio Silvia and the La Pavoni. Both produced espresso shots that were on par with any top cafe. In particular, what sets the Rancilio Silvia and the La Pavoni apart is the absolute control they give to the user. Both require the baristas with skill; however, once they are mastered, both machines could compete with commercial quality units. The Rancilio Silvia offers an interactive, highly customizable control board. However, the La Pavoni pulls shots by way of a manual lever that gives the user infinite control over heat, pressure, and time — it was our favorite to experiment on.
The La Pavoni's manual lever affords some of the most versatility in terms of heat, pressure, and time. It literally allows you to “pull” a shot of espresso.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Following close behind our top three producers are the Breville Barista Express, Flair Classic, and the De'Longhi La Specialista Arte. Each produced excellent quality espresso that was very close to cafe-quality. We loved the Flair Classics's all-manual design. It's also designed to be easily portable, a feature that we loved. Our favorite of the three is the Breville Barista Express. This semi-automatic machine pulls great shots at the push of a button.
A slow-motion instant replay of the Barista Express finishing off our shot with beautiful, golden crema.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Ease of Use
Our Ease of Use metric studied each machine's initial setup processes, user manual quality, accessories, and the overall intuitiveness of the unit's interface. We also tested each model's cappuccino prowess by using a stopwatch to time the speed each could produce one from start to finish. This metric accounts for 20 percent of each product's final score. Our two most user-friendly machines are, hands down, the Breville Bambino and the Breville Bambino Plus. No other model in our lineup came close to their tied score.
Every aspect of the Breville Bambino Plus is straightforward, intuitive, and easy to use — it even has backup user instructions printed on the side of its removable water tank. Its simple design will appeal to beginners or people on the go who may lack the time or skill to master higher-level machines. What we loved most about this unit is its compact size, which allows it to be tucked into a cupboard or neatly stored on the counter. The original Bambino has very similar functionality, with the exception of the manual steam wand, which is a pro and a con, depending on how automated you want the process to be.
The pint-sized Bambino Plus can hold its own with larger, more expensive models.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
We also loved the Rancilio Silvia's simple, industrial design. From its brushed stainless-steel housing to its rock-solid rocker switches, the entire unit is incredibly easy to understand.
Dumping the puck after pulling a shot on our Rancilio Silvia.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Although its overall score for this metric didn't stand out, it's important to mention that the De'Longhi Stilosa did have the fastest cappuccino times. In fact, it crushed the competition. It was followed by the Rancilio Silvia, Calphalon Temp IQ, La Pavoni, and the Breville Bambino.
Lastly, the Flair Classic also achieved above-average scores for this metric. Its score was certainly lower than our top performers, but it still deserves an honorable mention. The Flair Classic scored a lower because it requires a lot of integrated steps. The extra steps are not difficult, they're simply time consuming. However, as a whole, this machine is incredibly easy to use because it doesn't require electricity, has no switches or buttons, and doesn't need a water tank or drip tray. It's also super portable, and even comes with its own travel case.
The Flair Classic comes a handy travel case for those who want their espresso machine to go.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Ease of Cleaning
Espresso machines are generally complex for their size. This also means that they can be a challenge to keep clean and maintained. As a result, few of the machines in our lineup received solid scores for this metric. Our testing model examined — and then performed — all of the manufacturer guidelines for daily, weekly, and long-term cleaning (primarily descaling). We then scored each of these processes in terms of their ease, time requirements, and effectiveness. We even examined more basic things like drip tray capacity and owner's manual clarity. Given its super simple design, it was no surprise that the Flair Classic outshined every model on our list.
The Flair Classic was followed by the Breville Bambino Plus, Calphalon Temp IQ, Breville Bambino, and the Breville Barista Express. All three of these machines have one thing in common when it comes to outscoring the rest of the competition in this metric: each has a simple descaling process that takes less than 10 minutes. Most of the other machines required significantly longer time commitments.
The Calphalon Temp boasted one of the easiest descaling routines. It was a breeze to complete.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Milk Steaming
The ability to create cafe-style microfoam and steamed milk for cappuccinos and lattes accounts for 15 percent of each model's overall score. This metric examined the steam wand's user-friendliness and its ability to maintain consistent pressure and heat. We also focused our attention on the quality and texture of the microfoam each machine produced. Our in-house baristas were able to create nearly perfect microfoam with the Breville Barista Express. It poured like paint, made beautiful cappuccino art, and catapulted this model to the front of the pack. Not far behind was the Breville Bambino.
Next up are the De'Longhi La Specialista Arte, Calphalon Temp IQ, and the Breville Bambino Plus. Each product can whip up terrific microfoam. We especially like the De'Longhi La Specialista Arte's easy-to-use steam wand. It produces a more gentle pressure that makes it more forgiving and less likely to scald milk.
The Specialista Arte's magic wand. It steams slowly, but it's steady, produces excellent microfoam, and is very forgiving to beginners, which results in less scalded milk.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Machine Customization
Manual machines generally provide more customization options because they allow the user to pull a shot with complete control over heat, pressure, and time. However, manual machines require a great degree of skill and knowledge. So, we also looked for semi-automatic units that offered several preset options that allow the user similar control at the touch of a button. The race for our most customizable machine ended in a three-way tie.
The Breville Barista Express, Calphalon Temp IQ, and La Pavoni received identical scores for their ability to customize. Each machine offers the user the ability to experiment, but our favorite of the three is the Breville Barista Express. We love the versatility of its comprehensive control panel.
The Barista Express has many different controls, some of which include filter size, grind amount, and grind size. There was a slight learning curve, but overall the interface is intuitive and user-friendly.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Are These Machines Cheaper Than Your Favorite Coffee Shop?
The basic answer to that question is yes. All of the tested machines can pull a shot of espresso and make a latte for much less than what you'd pay at a coffee shop. Even the least cost-effective machines will benefit your bank account if you consistently use them.
Theoretically, any machines in our lineup can save you money compared to regularly going to a coffee shop. However, for many people, the reality is that an at-home machine will only be a partial replacement for visits to a cafe. In our experience, making quality espresso at home can satisfy part of that craving, but you'll probably still find yourself in a cafe or roastery from time to time if you also crave the atmosphere. If you fit into this latter description, an espresso machine may feel like a splurge, but a quality model can still pay for itself eventually.
Each machine we tested is unique, but they all have one thing in common: if consistently used, in lieu of heading to a coffee shop, they'll save you money in the long run.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Conclusion
Making espresso at home is an attainable luxury with the investment in a good machine and some practice. Such a purchase will help you cut down on coffee runs and vastly improve your morning vibe. Our detailed testing and results can put you on the path to being enjoyably caffeinated and help you navigate the delicious world of espresso at home, no matter your budget or goals.
If your tastes are less discerning and you just need to get caffeinated without the fuss, check out our write-ups on the best coffee makers, the top single-serve coffee makers, and the best coffee corresponding coffee pods. If you enjoy lattes and cappuccinos but aren't yet ready to drop hundreds of dollars, consider treating yourself to the best milk frother.
The best part of our job: enjoying the spoils of our work.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
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Michelle Powell, Lesley Robinson, and Jason Wanlass
