Best Espresso Only Machine

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

For the true coffee aficionado, the pursuit of the perfect espresso shot is a daily ritual. While all-in-one machines offer convenience, a dedicated espresso maker strips away the superfluous, focusing solely on one task: pulling a flawless, rich, and aromatic shot.

Navigating the crowded market to find a machine that delivers on this promise can be daunting. The difference between a good and a great espresso often lies in the engineering and precision of the equipment.

This guide is dedicated to helping you identify the best espresso only machine by focusing on the core principles of quality, consistency, and long-term value. We’ve analyzed the top contenders to ensure your investment results in a superior coffee experience, helping you find the best espresso only machine to elevate your home café.

Top 10 Best Espresso Only Machine Compared

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

🏆 BEST OVERALL Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

  • Integrated conical burr grinder provides fresh, on-demand grinding.
  • Features advanced controls like PID temperature and low-pressure pre-infusion.
  • Manual steam wand allows for control over milk texturing and latte art.
  • Comes as a complete package with all necessary startup accessories.
★★★★

4.8/5
Check Price on Amazon

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar

🥈 2ND RUNNER UP CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar

  • Professional 20-bar pump provides quality espresso extraction.
  • Built-in pressure gauge helps users control and perfect their shots.
  • Includes a powerful steam wand for frothing milk.
  • Compact and stylish stainless steel design is suitable for smaller kitchens.
★★★★

4.7/5
Check Price on Amazon

Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS

� BEST VALUE Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS

  • Extremely fast 3-second heat-up time.
  • Automatic steam wand provides consistent, hands-free milk texturing.
  • PID temperature control and pre-infusion ensure optimal and even extraction.
  • Uses a 54mm portafilter with a 19-gram dose for full-flavored espresso.
★★★★

4.5/5
Check Price on Amazon

Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS

Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS

  • Intuitive touchscreen operation simplifies the coffee-making process.
  • Extremely fast 3-second heat-up time.
  • Integrated grinder provides fresh, on-demand grounds.
  • Automatic steam wand creates excellent microfoam with adjustable settings.
★★★★

4.6/5
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 for espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew.
  • Integrated conical burr grinder and weight-based scale automate dosing.
  • Guided “Barista Assist” technology simplifies the brewing process.
  • Automated milk frother creates hot or cold foam with preset programs.
★★★★

4.7/5
Check Price on Amazon

CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar

CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar

  • 20-bar pressure pump provides solid extraction for espresso.
  • Compact and stylish stainless steel design fits well in smaller kitchens.
  • Includes a powerful steam wand for frothing milk.
  • Large, removable water tank is convenient for brewing multiple cups.
★★★★

4.4/5
Check Price on Amazon

ANYCOLD Espresso Machine 20 Bar

ANYCOLD Espresso Machine 20 Bar

  • High-pressure 20-bar pump for quality espresso extraction.
  • Integrated steam wand for milk frothing and hot water.
  • Compact stainless steel design is ideal for limited counter space.
  • Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning.
★★★★

4.7/5
Check Price on Amazon

TENKER Espresso Machine with Grinder

TENKER Espresso Machine with Grinder

  • Integrated conical burr grinder with 30 precise settings.
  • 20-bar pressure pump and PID temperature control for consistent extraction.
  • Versatile steam wand for frothing milk for a variety of drinks.
  • Large 61oz removable water tank reduces the frequency of refills.
★★★★

4.6/5
Check Price on Amazon

Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Makers

Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Makers

  • Durable and stylish stainless steel construction.
  • Compact design is ideal for limited counter space.
  • Features a 20-bar pump and pressure gauge for controlled extraction.
  • Powerful steam wand creates quality microfoam for milk drinks.
★★★★

4.4/5
Check Price on Amazon

IMUSA USA GAU-18202 4 Cup Espresso/Cappuccino Maker

IMUSA USA GAU-18202 4 Cup Espresso/Cappuccino Maker

  • Emphasizes user safety by directing customers to the manual.
  • Indicates that a user guide is included for setup and operation.
  • The product listing is simple and free of exaggerated marketing claims.
★★★★

4.4/5
Check Price on Amazon

Detailed Reviews of the Best Espresso Only Machine

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL – Integrated conical burr grinder provides fresh, on-demand grinding.

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

The Breville Barista Express is a comprehensive all-in-one machine for aspiring home baristas. It integrates a conical burr grinder, which allows for fresh grinding directly into the portafilter, a key feature for better-tasting espresso. The machine incorporates features often found in more advanced setups, like PID for stable water temperature and low-pressure pre-infusion for a more even extraction, which helps in pulling balanced shots.

The manual steam wand provides full control over milk texturing for lattes and cappuccinos, though it requires some practice to master. It comes with a generous set of accessories, including a milk jug, tamper, and cleaning kit, making it a complete starter package. While there’s a definite learning curve to dial in the grind and pull the perfect shot, the machine provides all the necessary tools to learn and produce high-quality espresso at home without needing separate components.

Pros

  • Integrated conical burr grinder provides fresh, on-demand grinding.
  • Features advanced controls like PID temperature and low-pressure pre-infusion.
  • Manual steam wand allows for control over milk texturing and latte art.
  • Comes as a complete package with all necessary startup accessories.
  • Highly adjustable grind size and dose settings offer flexibility.
  • Solid construction with a professional look and feel.

Cons

  • Requires a significant learning curve to master all the variables for a perfect shot.
  • As an all-in-one unit, if the grinder fails, the entire machine may require service.

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

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar

The CASABREWS espresso machine is a solid choice for those wanting to make cafe-style drinks at home without a huge investment. Its 20-bar pressure system consistently pulls decent espresso shots with a nice layer of crema. A standout feature is the built-in pressure gauge, which is incredibly helpful for learning to dial in your grind and tamp for optimal extraction.

The steam wand is quite powerful and can produce good quality microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos, though it takes some practice to get the technique right. The machine’s compact, stainless steel body looks good on the counter and doesn’t take up much space. It’s important to note the operational sequence mentioned in the manual; you must allow the machine to cool down after steaming milk before you can pull another shot.

Overall, it’s a capable machine for the home barista enthusiast.

Pros

  • Professional 20-bar pump provides quality espresso extraction.
  • Built-in pressure gauge helps users control and perfect their shots.
  • Includes a powerful steam wand for frothing milk.
  • Compact and stylish stainless steel design is suitable for smaller kitchens.
  • Comes with all the essential accessories to get started.

Cons

  • Requires a cool-down period after steaming milk before brewing coffee, which can slow down the process.
  • There is a learning curve to master both shot pulling and milk frothing for consistent results.

Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS – Extremely fast 3-second heat-up time.

Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS

This Breville espresso machine is a strong contender for home users who want to replicate the specialty coffee experience without a significant learning curve. Its standout feature is the ThermoJet heating system, which achieves the ideal extraction temperature in just three seconds, making it incredibly fast for a morning routine. The combination of a 54mm portafilter for a full 19-gram dose, low-pressure pre-infusion, and digital temperature control (PID) is geared towards producing a balanced and flavorful espresso shot.

The automatic steam wand is a major highlight, offering hands-free microfoam with adjustable temperature and texture settings. It consistently delivers quality milk for lattes and cappuccinos, making the process much more approachable for beginners. Overall, it successfully balances user-friendly automation with the core components needed for high-quality espresso, making it a very capable and convenient machine for daily use.

Pros

  • Extremely fast 3-second heat-up time.
  • Automatic steam wand provides consistent, hands-free milk texturing.
  • PID temperature control and pre-infusion ensure optimal and even extraction.
  • Uses a 54mm portafilter with a 19-gram dose for full-flavored espresso.
  • Simple, user-friendly control panel.

Cons

  • The automatic steam wand offers less manual control for advanced users.
  • A 1-year warranty is standard but might feel short for a premium appliance.

Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS – Intuitive touchscreen operation simplifies the coffee-making process.

Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine BES880BSS

The Breville Barista Touch offers a compelling blend of manual control and automated convenience for the home coffee enthusiast. Its most notable feature is the intuitive color touchscreen, which guides you through the process of grinding, brewing, and milk frothing. The integrated conical burr grinder delivers a consistent dose directly into the portafilter, and the ThermoJet heating system brings the machine to temperature in just three seconds, which is remarkably fast.

The automatic steam wand is a standout, allowing you to set your desired milk temperature and texture for consistent microfoam. While it provides many automated features, it still allows for adjustments to coffee strength and shot volume. It effectively simplifies the espresso-making process without completely removing the user from the experience, making it accessible for beginners but still satisfying for those with more experience.

The overall build quality feels solid, and the included accessories are a nice touch.

Pros

  • Intuitive touchscreen operation simplifies the coffee-making process.
  • Extremely fast 3-second heat-up time.
  • Integrated grinder provides fresh, on-demand grounds.
  • Automatic steam wand creates excellent microfoam with adjustable settings.
  • Ability to create and save up to 8 personalized coffee preferences.
  • Consistent results due to PID temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion.

Cons

  • The premium price point is a significant investment for a home appliance.
  • Integrated grinder, while convenient, offers less flexibility than a separate, dedicated grinder.

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

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

This 3-in-1 coffee maker stands out as a highly versatile, all-in-one solution for households with diverse coffee preferences. It capably handles espresso, drip coffee, and even rapid cold brew, offering a wide range of sizes and styles for each. The “Barista Assist Technology” is a key feature, guiding users through the process with recommendations for grind size and using a built-in scale for accurate, weight-based dosing.

This removes much of the guesswork typically associated with specialty coffee. The integrated conical burr grinder provides consistent grounds directly into the portafilter or basket. Additionally, the hands-free milk frother is equally user-friendly, offering presets for various hot and cold foam textures.

While it packs a lot of technology into one unit, the goal is clearly to make café-style beverages more accessible at home, automating many of the technical steps from grinding to frothing.

Pros

  • Versatile 3-in-1 functionality for espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew.
  • Integrated conical burr grinder and weight-based scale automate dosing.
  • Guided “Barista Assist” technology simplifies the brewing process.
  • Automated milk frother creates hot or cold foam with preset programs.
  • Multiple brew styles and size options provide high customizability.

Cons

  • The all-in-one design may require more involved cleaning and maintenance.
  • With numerous features and settings, there might be a learning curve for new users.

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

CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar

The CASABREWS espresso machine is a solid entry-level option for anyone looking to make espresso-based drinks at home. The 20-bar pressure system is a notable feature at this price point, capable of pulling decent shots with a nice crema once you get the grind right. The machine has a compact, stainless steel design that doesn’t take up too much counter space.

Its integrated steam wand is quite powerful, allowing you to froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos, though it does require some practice to achieve the ideal micro-foam texture. The large 43.9 oz water tank is a convenient feature, reducing the need for constant refilling. It comes with all the necessary accessories to get started, including two filter baskets and a tamper.

Overall, it’s a capable machine for beginners moving beyond pod systems and wanting more control over their coffee.

Pros

  • 20-bar pressure pump provides solid extraction for espresso.
  • Compact and stylish stainless steel design fits well in smaller kitchens.
  • Includes a powerful steam wand for frothing milk.
  • Large, removable water tank is convenient for brewing multiple cups.
  • Comes with essential accessories to start brewing immediately.

Cons

  • There is a learning curve for beginners to pull consistent shots and froth milk properly.
  • The included tamper is basic and combined with a scoop, which may not be ideal for serious users.

ANYCOLD Espresso Machine 20 Bar – High-pressure 20-bar pump for quality espresso extraction.

ANYCOLD Espresso Machine 20 Bar

This semi-automatic espresso machine is a solid entry point for anyone looking to step up their home coffee game. The 20-bar pressure pump and 1450W motor are impressive for a unit this size, delivering a decent espresso shot with a rich crema. The built-in steam wand is quite capable, producing fine milk foam for lattes and cappuccinos, and it also dispenses hot water.

Its compact, stainless steel design is a major plus, fitting well in smaller kitchens without sacrificing functionality. The 34 oz removable water tank is convenient for refills and cleaning. It’s important to note the user manual’s advice about letting the machine cool down after steaming milk before pulling another shot to avoid overheating.

Overall, it’s a capable machine that brings the café experience home, provided you’re willing to learn the process.

Pros

  • High-pressure 20-bar pump for quality espresso extraction.
  • Integrated steam wand for milk frothing and hot water.
  • Compact stainless steel design is ideal for limited counter space.
  • Removable water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning.
  • Includes essential accessories like a portafilter and tamper.

Cons

  • Requires a cool-down period between steaming milk and brewing coffee.
  • Has a learning curve typical of semi-automatic machines.

TENKER Espresso Machine with Grinder – Integrated conical burr grinder with 30 precise settings.

TENKER Espresso Machine with Grinder

This all-in-one espresso machine offers a comprehensive solution for home coffee enthusiasts by combining a grinder and brewer. With 30 grind settings, it provides ample control over the coffee’s texture. The core brewing system, featuring a 20-bar pump and PID temperature control, aims for consistent and high-quality extraction, resulting in espresso with a stable crema.

The powerful steam wand is effective for frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos. The unit is designed with convenience in mind, highlighted by its large 61oz water tank and an intuitive LED display. While the feature set is impressive for a home machine, users should expect a slight learning curve, particularly with the steam and hot water functions, which have a specific operational sequence.

Overall, it’s a capable machine that brings many professional-grade features into a compact, kitchen-friendly design, suitable for those looking to upgrade their home coffee setup.

Pros

  • Integrated conical burr grinder with 30 precise settings.
  • 20-bar pressure pump and PID temperature control for consistent extraction.
  • Versatile steam wand for frothing milk for a variety of drinks.
  • Large 61oz removable water tank reduces the frequency of refills.
  • All-in-one design saves valuable counter space.
  • Includes essential accessories like a milk pitcher and stainless steel tamper.

Cons

  • The steam and hot water functions have a specific operational sequence that requires a learning curve.
  • As an integrated unit, a malfunction in either the grinder or brewer could impact the entire machine.

Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Makers – Durable and stylish stainless steel construction.

Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Makers

The Gevi espresso machine is a well-rounded unit for home baristas, offering a good combination of features in a compact form. The 20-bar pump, pressure gauge, and pre-infusion function provide the necessary tools for pulling a decent shot of espresso. While not a fully automatic machine, the controls are intuitive, making the learning process relatively straightforward for those new to semi-automatic brewers.

The stainless steel construction gives it a premium feel and ensures durability, while its small footprint is a significant advantage for smaller kitchens. The steam wand is quite capable, producing a fine microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos after a bit of practice. The added hot water function is a convenient touch for making Americanos or pre-heating cups.

Overall, it performs reliably and serves as a solid entry point into the world of home espresso making, balancing functionality with user-friendliness.

Pros

  • Durable and stylish stainless steel construction.
  • Compact design is ideal for limited counter space.
  • Features a 20-bar pump and pressure gauge for controlled extraction.
  • Powerful steam wand creates quality microfoam for milk drinks.
  • Simple, intuitive controls are suitable for beginners.
  • Includes a dedicated hot water function for added versatility.

Cons

  • Achieving the ideal milk texture with the steam wand requires some practice.
  • The compact size may mean a smaller water reservoir and drip tray, requiring more frequent refilling and emptying.

IMUSA USA GAU-18202 4 Cup Espresso/Cappuccino Maker – Emphasizes user safety by directing customers to the manual.

IMUSA USA GAU-18202 4 Cup Espresso/Cappuccino Maker

This review is based on a product description that is exceptionally minimal, offering only the instruction to consult the user manual before the first use. While this is practical advice for any new item, it provides no actual details about the product itself. Consequently, it’s impossible to comment on key aspects like build quality, performance, design, or overall functionality.

A potential buyer is left entirely in the dark regarding what the product does, what it’s made of, or how well it works. While the emphasis on reading the manual suggests a certain level of complexity or a focus on user safety, the lack of fundamental information makes it difficult to form a clear picture. For a truly informed purchase, one would need to find specifications and features from another source, as this listing is unhelpful for making a decision.

Pros

  • Emphasizes user safety by directing customers to the manual.
  • Indicates that a user guide is included for setup and operation.
  • The product listing is simple and free of exaggerated marketing claims.

Cons

  • The description provides absolutely no details about the product’s features, function, or materials.
  • Customers cannot determine if the item meets their needs before making a purchase.

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

Integrated Grinder vs. Separate Unit

A primary decision is whether to choose a machine with a built-in grinder. All-in-one models like the Breville Barista Express, Barista Touch, and TENKER provide fresh, on-demand grinding, saving counter space and ensuring optimal flavor. This is ideal for a streamlined process. Alternatively, machines like the Breville Bambino or CASABREWS models require a separate grinder, offering you the flexibility to choose and upgrade your grinder independently, which can be a preference for espresso enthusiasts.

Automation and User Experience

Consider your desired level of involvement. For beginners or those seeking convenience, machines with automated features are excellent. The Breville Barista Touch offers an intuitive touchscreen with saved preferences and an automatic steam wand. The Ninja Luxe Café has “Barista Assist” technology and an automated frother. Conversely, a machine like the Breville Barista Express provides more manual control over grinding, dosing, and milk texturing, appealing to users who want to hone their barista skills to create the best espresso only machine experience.

Core Extraction Technology

Key features directly impact espresso quality. Look for PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control, found in several Breville models and the TENKER machine, which ensures the water is at the precise temperature for optimal extraction. Low-pressure pre-infusion, another feature of advanced Breville machines, gently soaks the coffee grounds before applying high pressure, leading to a more even and balanced shot. While many brands advertise a 20-bar pump, consistent pressure and temperature are more critical for great results.

Size, Construction, and Design

Your kitchen space is a practical consideration. If you have limited counters, compact models like the Breville Bambino, CASABREWS 3700, ANYCOLD, or Gevi are excellent choices. These machines often feature a stylish stainless steel construction that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. For those with more room, a larger all-in-one unit might be preferable. Always check the machine’s dimensions to ensure it will fit comfortably in your designated coffee station.

Included Accessories and Value

A great starter package includes all the necessary accessories to begin brewing immediately. Most machines listed, from the Breville Barista Express to the CASABREWS and TENKER models, come with essentials like a portafilter, tamper, and sometimes a milk pitcher. This adds significant value and removes the guesswork of purchasing separate tools. Getting a complete kit is a major advantage when you are investing in the best espresso only machine for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Espresso Only Machine

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

A machine with an integrated conical burr grinder, like the Breville Barista Express or TENKER, offers incredible convenience and ensures you’re using the freshest grounds, which is crucial for flavor. It also saves counter space. However, opting for a machine without one, such as the Breville Bambino, allows you to pair it with a separate, high-end grinder of your choice, offering more flexibility and a potential upgrade

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL is an excellent all-in-one solution for those looking to dive into the world of home espresso. It offers a great balance of manual control and helpful features, making it ideal for hobbyists willing to invest time in learning the craft. For its price point, it provides a feature-rich package that can produce cafe-quality drinks once mastered.

Leave a Comment