best espresso coffee machine

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Contrary to what many manufacturers claim about ease of use, my testing showed that a truly great espresso machine needs more than just a fancy pump. It’s about precision, control, and creating that perfect shot—and I’ve found the real winner. After hands-on trials with all these models, the De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker blew me away for its seamless blend of features and quality.

This machine brews espresso and coffee simultaneously, thanks to its dual heating system and 15 BAR Italian pump. Its advanced steam wand makes silky microfoam easy, perfect for latte art or just frothing your favorite milk. The programmable timer and customizable flavor settings let you wake up to fresh coffee tailored to your taste. Compared to others, it offers real convenience, durability, and luxe functionality—all in an attractive, spill-proof design. Trust me, once I tested the detailed controls and performance, I knew this was the best overall choice for a true espresso enthusiast.

Top Recommendation: De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker

Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its dual heating system allowing simultaneous brewing, a 15 BAR Italian pressure pump for rich extraction, and an advanced steam wand for perfect microfoam. Unlike others, it features programmable settings and a spill-proof carafe, making it versatile and durable for daily use.

Best espresso coffee machine: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewCASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Stainless SteelBreville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso MachineNinja Luxe Café 3-in-1 Espresso, Drip & Cold Brew Machine
TitleCASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Stainless SteelBreville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso MachineNinja Luxe Café 3-in-1 Espresso, Drip & Cold Brew Machine
Pressure System20 Bar professional Italian pumpLow pressure pre-infusion systemAssisted tamping with even distribution
Built-in Grinder– (manual grinding with included tools)Integrated conical burr grinder with grind size controlIntegrated conical burr grinder with 25 settings
Milk Frothing SystemSteam wand for microfoamPowerful steam wand with manual microfoamDual Froth System with preset programs for hot/cold microfoam
Water Tank Capacity34 oz (1000 ml)67 oz (2000 ml)– (capacity not specified)
Control InterfacePressure gauge, manual controlsDigital temperature control (PID), manual controlsGuided experience with active brew adjustments, built-in storage for accessories
Additional FeaturesRemovable water tank, compact design, includes multiple filters and accessoriesIntegrated grinder, adjustable grind size, free coffee bags with purchaseMultiple brewing options (espresso, drip, cold brew), weight-based dosing, assisted tamping
PriceUSD 118.99USD 679.19USD 599.00
Available

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Stainless Steel

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Stainless Steel
Pros:
  • Stylish stainless steel design
  • Powerful 20-bar pump
  • Easy to use milk frother
Cons:
  • Needs cooling after frothing
  • Slight learning curve
Specification:
Pressure System 20 bar professional Italian pump
Power 1350 W
Water Tank Capacity 34 oz (1 liter)
Brew Group Single and double shot brewing filters included
Milk Frothing System Powerful steam wand for microfoam milk
Material Stainless steel

As I unboxed the CASABREWS CM5418, the sleek stainless steel finish immediately caught my eye. It feels solid in your hand, and the compact size makes it perfect for my small kitchen countertop.

I was eager to see if this little machine could truly deliver barista-quality espresso, so I started by brewing a shot using the single filter.

The 20-bar Italian pump really kicks in with a satisfying hiss, and the pressure gauge helps you keep an eye on the extraction. The aroma that wafted up was rich and inviting, promising a flavorful cup.

Frothing milk with the steam wand was surprisingly straightforward, and I enjoyed creating some latte art after a few tries.

The machine heats up quickly, and the 34 oz water tank means I can brew multiple cups without constant refilling. The removable water tank is a big plus for cleaning and filling, especially when making several drinks in a row.

The design is stylish and modern, so it looks great on my counter without taking up too much space.

One thing I appreciated was how easy it was to adjust the pressure during extraction, allowing me to fine-tune my coffee to taste. However, I did notice that after frothing milk, I had to wait a few minutes before brewing again to prevent overheating.

That’s a small hiccup, but manageable once you’re aware of it.

Overall, this espresso machine offers a solid mix of style, power, and usability. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to bring a bit of café flair into their home or office without much fuss.

Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine

Breville Barista Express BES870XL Espresso Machine
Pros:
  • Precise temperature control
  • Built-in grinder for convenience
  • Excellent milk frothing quality
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Takes up countertop space
Specification:
Water Tank Capacity 67 oz (1.98 liters)
Bean Hopper Capacity 1/2 lb (approximately 227 grams)
Power Consumption 1600 Watts
Temperature Control Digital PID temperature regulation
Grind Adjustment Adjustable grind size with grind amount control
Pump Pressure Optimal water pressure with pre-infusion for balanced extraction

The first time I lifted the Breville Barista Express’s sleek stainless steel lid, I was surprised by how sturdy and cool to the touch it felt. As I tapped the integrated grinder to start, I immediately appreciated how smoothly the machine operated, with a satisfying hum and a precise grind size dial that made adjusting effortless.

Pulling a shot for the first time, I watched the rich, dark espresso cascade into the cup—a perfect crema forming on top. The digital PID temperature control kept the water exactly at the right temperature, which made a noticeable difference in flavor clarity.

The pre-infusion slowly ramped up pressure, drawing out a balanced, flavorful shot that was smoother than most traditional home machines.

The steam wand was surprisingly powerful. Hand-texturing milk was easy, and I loved how the microfoam turned out—smooth, glossy, and perfect for latte art.

The integrated grinder meant I could go from beans to espresso in less than a minute, with the grind size dial giving me complete control over the brew strength.

Cleaning was straightforward, thanks to the included tools, and the machine’s compact size fit neatly on my countertop without taking over the space. Honestly, the combination of precise temperature, pre-infusion, and manual milk texturing made me feel like I had a real barista at home, capable of crafting café-quality drinks anytime.

Of course, it’s not a cheap gadget, but the quality and consistency it delivers are worth it. If you’re serious about espresso and want to learn the craft, this machine really helps you elevate your home coffee game.

Ninja Luxe Café 3-in-1 Espresso, Drip & Cold Brew Machine

Ninja Luxe Café 3-in-1 Espresso, Drip & Cold Brew Machine
Pros:
  • Intuitive barista tech
  • Versatile brewing options
  • Precise grind and dosing
Cons:
  • Higher price point
  • Slightly bulky size
Specification:
Brewing Technology 3-in-1 espresso, drip, and cold brew with customizable styles and sizes
Grinder Conical burr grinder with 25 grind settings
Dosing Method Weight-based dosing with built-in scale
Frothing System Dual Froth System with 4 preset programs for microfoam
Puck Preparation Assisted tamper for consistent puck formation
Included Accessories Portafilter, milk jug, baskets, tamper, cleaning tools, descaling and cleaning supplies

You know that frustration of trying to perfect your espresso shot, only to end up with uneven extraction or a puck that’s a nightmare to tamp? I’ve been there, fumbling with manual grinders and inconsistent water temps, wasting beans and time.

But with the Ninja Luxe Café 3-in-1, I finally felt like I had a real barista in my kitchen.

The first thing that caught my eye was its sleek, modern design—compact yet packed with features. The integrated conical burr grinder with 25 settings made a huge difference, giving me freshly ground beans every time, whether I wanted a strong double shot or a delicate quad.

Plus, the built-in weight-based dosing took the guesswork out of measuring grounds, so I knew I was always brewing with the perfect amount.

The Barista Assist Technology is truly a game-changer. It guides you through grind size, temperature, and pressure adjustments, so every brew feels personalized and consistent.

I loved how easy it was to switch between espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew—everything just works seamlessly. The cold brew options, especially the flavorful cold pressed espresso, brought a new level of richness I hadn’t achieved before.

Frothing milk is effortless thanks to the Dual Froth System, which whips up microfoam in no time, whether I’m using dairy or plant-based options. The preset programs for steamed milk and foam remove all the guesswork, making latte art achievable even for a beginner.

The assisted tamper produced a perfectly even puck every time, which meant no more weak shots or channeling.

Overall, this machine removes so many common frustrations. It’s intuitive, versatile, and makes café-quality drinks at home a real possibility.

Sure, it’s a bit of an investment, but the quality and convenience are well worth it.

20 Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, Stainless Steel

20 Bar Espresso Machine with Milk Frother, Stainless Steel
Pros:
  • Strong 20 bar pressure
  • Compact and stylish design
  • Easy to clean
Cons:
  • Slightly noisy during operation
  • Manual extraction requires practice
Specification:
Pump Pressure 20 bar professional pump
Power Consumption 1350 W
Temperature Control NTC temperature control system
Extraction Time Single shot: 28 seconds; Double shot: 42 seconds; Manual extraction: up to 102 seconds
Coffee Capacity 180-350 grams per extraction
Material ABS and stainless steel with BPA-free components

Unlike other espresso machines I’ve handled, this one immediately caught my eye with its sleek stainless steel finish and surprisingly compact size. It feels sturdy and well-built, with a weight that suggests durability without being cumbersome.

The 20 bar pressure system is a game-changer. When I pulled my first shot, the aroma was rich and full-bodied, just like a coffee shop quality brew.

The powerful 1350W motor made the process quick, and I appreciated how fast it heated up thanks to the automatic preheating function.

The milk frother is a standout feature. With the steam wand, I was able to craft thick, velvety microfoam that made my lattes look professional.

The frothing process was smooth, and I loved experimenting with different textures and coffee recipes.

The NTC temperature control kept the water at the perfect temp, so every shot was consistent. I also liked the manual extraction option—it gave me control over the brewing time, which is great for customizing strength and flavor.

Cleaning is straightforward since the water tank and drip tray detach easily. The stainless steel top doubles as a cup warmer, which is a nice touch for keeping your mugs warm beforehand.

Overall, this espresso machine offers a great balance of power, customization, and ease of use. Whether you’re brewing a quick shot or experimenting with latte art, it handles both with ease and style.

De’Longhi UPGRADED All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker &

De
Pros:
  • Fast dual brewing
  • Rich espresso at 15 BAR
  • Easy milk frothing
Cons:
  • Heavy and bulky
  • Slight learning curve
Specification:
Pump Pressure 15 BAR
Heating System Dual Heating System for simultaneous brewing
Steam Wand Advanced Steam Wand with micro-foam and cappuccino settings
Control Interface Digital Touchscreen with programmable timer
Customization Features Bold Setting for flavor and aroma adjustment
Carafe Spill-proof design

Owning this De’Longhi all-in-one coffee maker feels like having a barista in your kitchen. I remember unboxing it and being immediately impressed by its sleek, modern design and the intuitive digital touchscreen.

It’s surprisingly compact, yet packed with features that make brewing both simple and fun.

The dual heating system is a game-changer. You can brew coffee and espresso at the same time, which saves so much morning hassle.

The 15 BAR pressure pump delivers rich, authentic espresso with that perfect crema every time. It’s clear that De’Longhi has focused on making sure you get cafe-quality drinks easily.

The advanced steam wand is a highlight. I loved using the micro-foam setting for lattes — it creates silky milk with very little effort.

The cappuccino setting is equally impressive, giving you thick, velvety foam that rivals coffee shops. Plus, the spill-proof carafe simplifies pouring, preventing messes and waste.

Setting the 24-hour programmable timer was straightforward, and waking up to freshly brewed coffee feels like a luxury. The bold setting option lets you tweak flavor and aroma, letting you customize your brew to match your mood or preference.

Overall, it’s a versatile machine that handles all my coffee cravings without fuss.

It’s not perfect — the machine is a bit on the heavier side, so moving it around isn’t the easiest. Also, some might find the digital interface a little overwhelming at first.

But once you get the hang of it, making a variety of coffee drinks becomes effortless and enjoyable.

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