Best Great Espresso Machine

The pursuit of the perfect espresso is a daily ritual for coffee lovers worldwide. That rich, aromatic shot is an art form, and the right equipment is your most essential tool.

Navigating the crowded market to find the best great espresso machine can be overwhelming, as models vary wildly in features, price, and capability. This guide is designed to cut through the noise.

We’ve meticulously evaluated the top contenders, focusing on the critical factors that define a superior experience: performance, durability, and overall value. Making an informed decision is crucial for an investment that will elevate your daily coffee routine.

Our comprehensive review will help you identify the best great espresso machine to perfectly suit your home and your palate.

Top 10 Best Great Espresso Machine Compared

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

🏆 BEST OVERALL Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

  • Integrated conical burr grinder saves space and simplifies workflow.
  • Features like PID temperature control and pre-infusion aid in shot consistency.
  • Provides a high degree of manual control for dialing in shots.
  • Powerful manual steam wand for quality milk texturing.
★★★★

4.4/5
Check Price on Amazon

Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Makers

🥈 2ND RUNNER UP Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Makers

  • 20-bar pump and pressure gauge aid in proper espresso extraction.
  • Durable and attractive full stainless steel construction.
  • Powerful steam wand for frothing milk.
  • Compact design is suitable for smaller kitchens.
★★★★

4.7/5
Check Price on Amazon

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar

� BEST VALUE CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar

  • Professional 20-bar pump for quality espresso extraction.
  • Integrated steam wand for frothing milk.
  • Compact and stylish stainless steel design fits most kitchens.
  • Built-in pressure gauge provides useful visual feedback.
★★★★

4.8/5
Check Price on Amazon

Gevi Commercial Espresso Machine 20Bar with Smart OPV Coffee Makers

Gevi Commercial Espresso Machine 20Bar with Smart OPV Coffee Makers

  • Precise PID temperature control with three selectable settings.
  • Commercial-grade 58mm portafilter allows for more even extraction.
  • Dual display with pressure gauge and digital timer for real-time feedback.
  • Stable 9-bar pressure system helps prevent over-extraction.
★★★★

4.3/5
Check Price on Amazon

CASABREWS 5700Pro Espresso Machine with Grinder

CASABREWS 5700Pro Espresso Machine with Grinder

  • Integrated conical burr grinder saves counter space and ensures freshness.
  • Helpful LCD display provides real-time information and operational prompts.
  • Powerful 20-bar pressure system for effective espresso extraction.
  • All-in-one design combines grinding, brewing, and milk frothing.
★★★★

4.5/5
Check Price on Amazon

Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS

Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS

  • Extremely fast 3-second heat-up time gets you brewing almost instantly.
  • Automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing and produces quality microfoam.
  • PID temperature control and pre-infusion ensure consistent, well-balanced espresso extraction.
  • User-friendly controls make it accessible for beginners.
★★★★

4.4/5
Check Price on Amazon

Ninja | Espresso Machine and Drip Coffee Maker| Luxe Café Premier Series | Integrated Coffee Grinder

Ninja | Espresso Machine and Drip Coffee Maker| Luxe Café Premier Series | Integrated Coffee Grinder

  • Versatile 3-in-1 functionality (espresso, drip, cold brew).
  • Integrated conical burr grinder with 25 settings.
  • Barista Assist technology simplifies the brewing process.
  • Precise, weight-based dosing for consistent results.
★★★★

4.5/5
Check Price on Amazon

CASABREWS Ultra Espresso Machine with LCD Display

CASABREWS Ultra Espresso Machine with LCD Display

  • Professional 20-bar pressure system for rich espresso extraction.
  • Powerful steam wand for creating quality milk foam.
  • User-friendly interface with an LCD display and simple controls.
  • Large 73 oz removable water tank is very convenient.
★★★★

4.5/5
Check Price on Amazon

CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar

CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar

  • High-pressure 20-bar pump for quality espresso extraction.
  • Integrated steam wand for frothing milk.
  • Compact and stylish stainless steel design.
  • Large, removable 43.9 oz water tank is convenient.
★★★★

4.4/5
Check Price on Amazon

Philips Baristina Espresso Machine

Philips Baristina Espresso Machine

  • Fully automatic bean-to-cup system is very easy to use.
  • Brews quickly, delivering espresso in less than 60 seconds.
  • Integrated grinder uses fresh beans for better flavor.
  • Compact design is suitable for small kitchens and countertops.
★★★★

4.7/5
Check Price on Amazon

Detailed Reviews of the Best Great Espresso Machine

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL – Integrated conical burr grinder saves space and simplifies workflow.

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

The Breville Barista Express is a well-regarded all-in-one machine for those looking to elevate their home coffee experience. Its key feature is the integrated conical burr grinder, which allows you to go from bean to espresso in a streamlined process, saving counter space. The machine offers a good amount of control for the user, including adjustable grind size, dose amount, and digital temperature control (PID) to ensure stable water temperature during extraction.

The low-pressure pre-infusion feature is designed to gently expand the grounds for a more even pull. While the manual steam wand has a learning curve, it’s powerful and capable of producing high-quality microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos once mastered. It’s a significant step up from entry-level appliances, providing the tools needed to learn and refine the art of making espresso without requiring a separate grinder.

Pros

  • Integrated conical burr grinder saves space and simplifies workflow.
  • Features like PID temperature control and pre-infusion aid in shot consistency.
  • Provides a high degree of manual control for dialing in shots.
  • Powerful manual steam wand for quality milk texturing.
  • Includes a comprehensive set of accessories to get started.

Cons

  • There is a definite learning curve to master the grind settings and extraction process.
  • The built-in grinder, while convenient, may not offer the fine-tuning of a high-end standalone unit.

Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Makers – 20-bar pump and pressure gauge aid in proper espresso extraction.

Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Makers

The Gevi espresso machine is a competent and stylish option for those venturing into home barista territory. It packs key features like a 20-bar pump, a pressure gauge, and temperature control, which contribute to a consistent and flavorful espresso shot. The full stainless steel housing feels durable and gives it a premium look that complements modern kitchens, while its compact size is a definite plus for limited counter space.

The steam wand is quite powerful, capable of producing decent microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos after a bit of practice. The controls are straightforward, making the brewing process accessible even for beginners. The added hot water function is a thoughtful touch for making Americanos or pre-heating cups.

Overall, it’s a well-rounded machine that successfully balances essential performance features with user-friendly design, making it a solid upgrade from more basic coffee makers.

Pros

  • 20-bar pump and pressure gauge aid in proper espresso extraction.
  • Durable and attractive full stainless steel construction.
  • Powerful steam wand for frothing milk.
  • Compact design is suitable for smaller kitchens.
  • Intuitive controls make it relatively easy to use.
  • Includes a dedicated hot water function for Americanos or tea.

Cons

  • As a semi-automatic machine, there is a learning curve to master consistent shots and milk texture.
  • The compact size may mean a smaller water reservoir, requiring more frequent refilling.

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar – Professional 20-bar pump for quality espresso extraction.

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar

The CASABREWS espresso machine is a solid entry-level option for anyone looking to make espresso-based drinks at home. Its 20-bar pressure system and 1350W boiler are quite capable of pulling decent single or double shots with a nice crema. The built-in pressure gauge is a particularly helpful feature at this price point, offering feedback to help you improve your technique over time.

The steam wand is powerful enough to create textured milk for lattes and cappuccinos. Its compact, stainless steel body looks good on the counter and doesn’t take up excessive space, making it suitable for smaller kitchens. One important consideration is that, as a single-boiler machine, it requires a cool-down period after steaming milk before you can brew another shot of espresso.

Overall, it’s a competent machine for the home barista who is just starting out.

Pros

  • Professional 20-bar pump for quality espresso extraction.
  • Integrated steam wand for frothing milk.
  • Compact and stylish stainless steel design fits most kitchens.
  • Built-in pressure gauge provides useful visual feedback.
  • Comes with both single and double shot filter baskets.
  • Large 34 oz removable water tank is convenient for multiple cups.

Cons

  • Requires a cool-down period after frothing milk before you can brew coffee.
  • The included plastic tamper/spoon combo is functional but not ideal for serious tamping.

Gevi Commercial Espresso Machine 20Bar with Smart OPV Coffee Makers – Precise PID temperature control with three selectable settings.

Gevi Commercial Espresso Machine 20Bar with Smart OPV Coffee Makers

The Gevi espresso machine offers a compelling set of features for those looking to upgrade from entry-level models. The combination of a 58mm commercial-grade portafilter and a stable 9-bar extraction system provides a solid foundation for quality espresso shots. Its standout feature is the level of control it offers; the dual display with a pressure gauge and digital timer is incredibly useful for monitoring and repeating successful extractions.

The adjustable PID temperature control is a significant advantage for dialing in different coffee beans. While the steam wand has a bit of a learning curve, the dual modes allow for creating decent microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos. Overall, it’s a capable machine that bridges the gap between basic appliances and more expensive prosumer equipment, providing the tools needed to refine your home barista skills without being overly intimidating.

Pros

  • Precise PID temperature control with three selectable settings.
  • Commercial-grade 58mm portafilter allows for more even extraction.
  • Dual display with pressure gauge and digital timer for real-time feedback.
  • Stable 9-bar pressure system helps prevent over-extraction.
  • Capable steam wand with two modes for milk texturing.

Cons

  • Requires a learning curve to effectively utilize all manual controls.
  • A capable external coffee grinder is necessary to get the most out of the machine.

CASABREWS 5700Pro Espresso Machine with Grinder – Integrated conical burr grinder saves counter space and ensures freshness.

CASABREWS 5700Pro Espresso Machine with Grinder

This all-in-one espresso machine is a solid option for those looking to create cafe-style beverages at home. The integrated conical burr grinder with 15 settings is a significant advantage, ensuring fresh grounds for every shot. The LCD screen is particularly helpful, offering real-time feedback on the grinding and extraction process, which can help shorten the learning curve.

With a 20-bar pressure system, it’s capable of pulling a proper espresso with decent crema. The manual steam wand performs well for frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos, although it requires some practice to achieve perfect microfoam. The stainless-steel construction gives it a durable and premium feel on the countertop.

Overall, it provides the essential tools for someone wanting to get more involved in the craft of making espresso, moving beyond push-button automatic machines.

Pros

  • Integrated conical burr grinder saves counter space and ensures freshness.
  • Helpful LCD display provides real-time information and operational prompts.
  • Powerful 20-bar pressure system for effective espresso extraction.
  • All-in-one design combines grinding, brewing, and milk frothing.
  • Large 91oz removable water tank reduces the frequency of refills.
  • Durable and stylish brushed stainless-steel construction.

Cons

  • Requires a learning curve to master variables like grind size and tamping pressure.
  • Regular maintenance, including cleaning the grinder, is needed for consistent performance.

Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS – Extremely fast 3-second heat-up time gets you brewing almost instantly.

Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS

The Breville Bambino Plus is a compelling option for home baristas seeking convenience and quality. Its standout feature is the ThermoJet heating system, which brings the machine to the optimal extraction temperature in just three seconds, making it perfect for quick morning routines. The automatic steam wand is another major highlight, consistently producing excellent microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos with adjustable temperature and texture settings.

This largely hands-free process is a significant advantage for beginners. Core features like the 54mm portafilter, low-pressure pre-infusion, and PID temperature control work together to ensure a balanced and flavorful espresso shot. While it automates some of the more difficult aspects of espresso making, it still offers enough control for users to learn and improve.

The compact design is a welcome bonus for those with limited counter space. Overall, it’s a very capable machine that delivers on its promises.

Pros

  • Extremely fast 3-second heat-up time gets you brewing almost instantly.
  • Automatic steam wand simplifies milk texturing and produces quality microfoam.
  • PID temperature control and pre-infusion ensure consistent, well-balanced espresso extraction.
  • User-friendly controls make it accessible for beginners.
  • Compact footprint is ideal for smaller kitchens.

Cons

  • The 54mm portafilter size has fewer third-party accessory options compared to the 58mm standard.
  • A 1-year warranty may feel short for an appliance at this price point.

Ninja | Espresso Machine and Drip Coffee Maker| Luxe Café Premier Series | Integrated Coffee Grinder – Versatile 3-in-1 functionality (espresso, drip, cold brew).

Ninja | Espresso Machine and Drip Coffee Maker| Luxe Café Premier Series | Integrated Coffee Grinder

This 3-in-1 coffee machine is a compelling option for those seeking versatility in their home brewing setup. It effectively combines an espresso maker, a drip coffee brewer, and a cold brew function into a single unit. The standout feature is the “Barista Assist Technology,” which simplifies the process by providing grind recommendations and using a built-in scale for weight-based dosing.

This removes much of the guesswork typically associated with making quality espresso. The integrated conical burr grinder with 25 settings is a significant plus, ensuring fresh grounds for every drink. I found the automated dual frothing system quite capable, producing consistent hot and cold microfoam for various milk types.

With multiple brew styles and sizes for drip coffee and cold brew, this machine caters to a wide range of preferences, making it a solid all-in-one solution for the coffee enthusiast who values convenience and consistency.

Pros

  • Versatile 3-in-1 functionality (espresso, drip, cold brew).
  • Integrated conical burr grinder with 25 settings.
  • Barista Assist technology simplifies the brewing process.
  • Precise, weight-based dosing for consistent results.
  • Automatic frother creates both hot and cold foam.
  • Wide variety of drink styles and size options.

Cons

  • As an all-in-one unit, it may not match the specialized performance of separate, high-end machines.
  • The number of features and settings could present a learning curve for new users.

CASABREWS Ultra Espresso Machine with LCD Display – Professional 20-bar pressure system for rich espresso extraction.

CASABREWS Ultra Espresso Machine with LCD Display

This CASABREWS espresso machine offers a solid entry into home-brewed, cafe-style drinks. The 20-bar pressure system is a key feature, providing the necessary power for a rich espresso extraction. The inclusion of an LCD display and pre-programmed shots makes the process more approachable for beginners.

I found the large 73 oz water tank very convenient, reducing the need for frequent refills. The steam wand is quite capable, producing decent microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos after a bit of practice. While it’s a semi-automatic machine, which requires some user input for grinding and tamping, the features provided offer a good level of control.

The adjustable brewing temperature is a nice touch for those who like to fine-tune their shots. The overall stainless steel construction feels sturdy and looks good on the counter. It’s a well-rounded machine for the aspiring home barista.

Pros

  • Professional 20-bar pressure system for rich espresso extraction.
  • Powerful steam wand for creating quality milk foam.
  • User-friendly interface with an LCD display and simple controls.
  • Large 73 oz removable water tank is very convenient.
  • Four adjustable brewing temperature settings for espresso.
  • Sleek and durable brushed stainless steel design.

Cons

  • As a semi-automatic machine, there is a learning curve for dialing in the right grind and tamp.
  • Temperature adjustment is limited to espresso brewing only, not the steam wand.

CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar – High-pressure 20-bar pump for quality espresso extraction.

CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar

The CASABREWS espresso machine is a solid option for those looking to create espresso-based drinks at home. It features a 20-bar pressure pump and a 1350W motor, which are good specifications for proper espresso extraction. The built-in steam wand is a key feature, allowing users to froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos.

Its stainless steel body gives it a durable and premium feel, and the compact design makes it suitable for kitchens with limited counter space. The large 43.9 oz removable water tank is a convenient touch, minimizing the need for frequent refills. While it is a semi-automatic machine that requires some practice to master, it comes with all the necessary accessories, including two filter baskets and a tamper, making it a complete starter package.

Overall, it provides the essential functions for a home barista experience without being overly complex or bulky.

Pros

  • High-pressure 20-bar pump for quality espresso extraction.
  • Integrated steam wand for frothing milk.
  • Compact and stylish stainless steel design.
  • Large, removable 43.9 oz water tank is convenient.
  • Comes with essential accessories to get started immediately.

Cons

  • As a semi-automatic machine, there is a learning curve for beginners.
  • Manual tamping and brewing require more effort than automatic models.

Philips Baristina Espresso Machine – Fully automatic bean-to-cup system is very easy to use.

Philips Baristina Espresso Machine

The Baristina machine delivers on its promise of simplifying the home espresso process. Its main strength is the all-in-one, bean-to-cup functionality that handles grinding, tamping, and brewing automatically with a simple swipe. The speed is impressive, producing a shot in under a minute, which is perfect for busy mornings.

With a 16-bar pump, it has the power to pull a decent shot with good crema from fresh beans. Its compact footprint is a genuine space-saver on the countertop. The inclusion of different shot options like lungo and extra intense adds a welcome layer of versatility.

While it may not satisfy a seasoned barista’s desire for manual control, it’s a very capable machine for anyone wanting to upgrade from pods to fresh espresso without the steep learning curve. The sustainable design, using recycled plastics and less energy, is also a commendable feature.

Pros

  • Fully automatic bean-to-cup system is very easy to use.
  • Brews quickly, delivering espresso in less than 60 seconds.
  • Integrated grinder uses fresh beans for better flavor.
  • Compact design is suitable for small kitchens and countertops.
  • Sustainable construction with recycled plastics and an efficient energy rating.
  • Offers multiple brewing options (Espresso, Lungo, Extra Intense).

Cons

  • No built-in steam wand or milk frother for making lattes or cappuccinos.
  • Lacks manual controls for users who want to fine-tune extraction parameters.

Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Great Espresso Machine

Machine Type: All-in-One vs. Standalone

When searching for the best great espresso machine, a primary choice is between an all-in-one model and a standalone brewer. All-in-one machines, like the Breville Barista Express or CASABREWS 5700Pro, integrate a conical burr grinder. This saves valuable counter space and simplifies the workflow from bean to cup. Standalone machines, such as the Gevi or Breville Bambino, require a separate grinder but offer more flexibility to upgrade components individually. For ultimate convenience, fully automatic systems like the Philips Baristina handle everything with one touch.

Brewing Technology: Pressure and Temperature Control

The heart of a quality espresso shot lies in pressure and temperature. Many machines, including those from Gevi and CASABREWS, feature 20-bar pumps to ensure sufficient pressure for proper extraction. However, features like PID (Proportional Integral Derivative) temperature control, found in the Breville and Gevi Commercial models, are crucial for consistency. PID systems maintain a precise water temperature, preventing bitter or sour shots. Similarly, pre-infusion, a feature of the Breville machines, gently soaks the coffee grounds before full pressure is applied, leading to a more balanced extraction.

Grinder and Portafilter Considerations

If you opt for a machine with a built-in grinder, look for conical burrs, as seen in the Breville Barista Express and Ninja models, which provide consistent grounds. The portafilter size also matters; a commercial-grade 58mm portafilter, like the one on the Gevi Commercial machine, allows for a wider, more even coffee bed, which can improve extraction quality compared to smaller, consumer-grade sizes. Having both single and double shot filter baskets included is a convenient bonus.

Milk Frothing and Steam Wands

For lovers of lattes and cappuccinos, the steam wand is a critical component. Manual steam wands, found on machines like the Breville Barista Express and Gevi models, offer a high degree of control for creating silky microfoam, though they require practice. For beginners or those seeking convenience, an automatic steam wand, like the one on the Breville Bambino, or an automatic frother, like the Ninja’s, can create quality hot or cold foam with minimal effort.

Ease of Use and Convenience

User-friendly features can significantly enhance your daily coffee routine. Look for compact designs like the Breville Bambino if space is limited. Large, removable water tanks (as seen on the CASABREWS 5700Pro and Ultra) reduce the frequency of refills. An intuitive interface with an LCD display, like on the CASABREWS Ultra, or a dual display with a timer, as on the Gevi Commercial, provides valuable real-time feedback that simplifies the process of dialing in the perfect shot.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Great Espresso Machine

What is the significance of a 20-bar pump in an espresso machine?

While the ideal pressure for extracting espresso is around 9 bars, a 20-bar pump indicates the machine’s maximum potential power. This ensures it has more than enough force to push water through a finely ground and tamped coffee puck to achieve the optimal 9 bars consistently. Machines like the CASABREWS and Gevi models highlight this feature, which provides a robust foundation for quality espresso extraction, even if the full pressure is not used during the actual brew.

Do I need an espresso machine with a built-in grinder?

A machine with an integrated grinder, such as the Breville Barista Express or CASABREWS 5700Pro, offers significant advantages. It saves counter space, simplifies your coffee-making workflow, and ensures you are always using freshly ground beans for maximum flavor. While a separate grinder offers more flexibility for future upgrades, an all-in-one unit is an excellent, convenient, and often more affordable starting point for anyone seeking the best great espresso machine experience at home.

What is PID temperature control and is it a necessary feature?

PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) is a digital controller that actively maintains a precise and stable water temperature during brewing. This is crucial because minor temperature fluctuations can drastically alter the taste of your espresso, making it

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL is an excellent all-in-one solution for the aspiring home barista who wants to move beyond automatic machines. It provides the right balance of features and manual control to produce high-quality espresso, provided you’re willing to invest time in learning the process.

Leave a Comment