Best Countertop Espresso Machines: Brew Like a Pro

Best Countertop Espresso Machines: Brew Like a Pro

Craving barista-quality espresso at home? The world of countertop espresso machines offers a tempting array of options, but navigating this landscape can be overwhelming.

Investing in the best best countertop espresso machine requires careful consideration. After all, you’re not just buying a machine; you’re investing in a daily ritual, a boost to your mornings, and the ability to impress guests with your coffee prowess.

Choosing wisely hinges on understanding your individual needs and prioritizing factors like quality, ease of use, and long-term value. Our comprehensive guide is designed to help you cut through the noise and identify the best best countertop espresso machine that perfectly aligns with your lifestyle and budget.

We’ll explore the key features and considerations to empower you to make an informed decision.

Top 5 Best Countertop Espresso Machine Compared

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar

  • Makes espresso, cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos
  • Includes milk frother for creamy drinks
  • Reusable filter saves money and reduces waste
  • Semi-automatic operation is easy to use
Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Makers

Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Makers

  • Makes espresso and Americanos easily at home.
  • Adjustable shot volume for customized drinks.
  • Built-in pressure gauge ensures quality espresso.
  • Includes all necessary components for immediate use.
★★★★

4.4/5
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CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar

CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar

  • 20-Bar pump for professional espresso extraction.
  • Makes cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos at home.
  • Includes filters, portafilter, tamper, and manual.
  • Compact design fits home or office use.
★★★★

4.3/5
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Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS

Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS

  • Makes quality espresso drinks at home, office.
  • Reusable filter helps minimize waste, saves money.
  • Compact design fits easily on any countertop.
  • Durable stainless steel finish offers long-lasting quality.
★★★★

4.2/5
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Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

  • Makes quality espresso from whole beans easily.
  • Includes many helpful accessories for perfect espresso.
  • Durable stainless steel finish and reusable filter.
  • Manual operation allows for user control.
★★★★

4.5/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Best Countertop Espresso Machine

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar – Makes espresso, cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar

Does it live up to expectations? Unfortunately, there is currently an error with the product. While this is not the experience we aim to provide, it’s crucial to acknowledge and address such instances.

We are dedicated to delivering a high-quality product and are actively working to identify and resolve any underlying issues. We appreciate the notification of this error because it helps us improve the product. We are committed to promptly addressing the issue and preventing future occurrences.

We value your patience and understanding as we diligently work to restore the product to its intended functionality. Our team is dedicated to resolving the error and improving the product. We appreciate your understanding as we work to resolve the issue.

Pros

  • Makes espresso, cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos
  • Includes milk frother for creamy drinks
  • Reusable filter saves money and reduces waste
  • Semi-automatic operation is easy to use
  • Stainless steel finish is durable and stylish

Cons

  • Basic features

Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Makers – Makes espresso and Americanos easily at home.

Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Makers

Excited to share the amazing features of this espresso machine! This product is designed to be more than just an occasional treat; it’s built for daily use. You’ll find yourself reaching for it every morning to create delicious espresso quickly and efficiently.

The machine’s helpful pressure gauge allows you to monitor the brewing process, providing valuable insights into the extraction. This feature ensures you’re always in control and able to achieve the perfect cup. The steam frother works exceptionally well, creating rich, creamy milk for lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty drinks.

One of the surprising benefits is its coffee efficiency. You’ll actually use less coffee compared to brewing a full pot, making it an economical choice. This espresso machine is a well-made product that is durable and reliable.

Beyond its functionality, this machine is also designed to be aesthetically pleasing. Its sleek design and premium materials make it a stylish addition to any kitchen countertop. It seamlessly blends in with your other appliances and adds a touch of elegance to your space.

This espresso machine is a worthwhile investment that will quickly become an indispensable part of your daily routine. From its ease of use to its exceptional performance and attractive design, it offers a complete package for the coffee enthusiast.

Pros

  • Makes espresso and Americanos easily at home.
  • Adjustable shot volume for customized drinks.
  • Built-in pressure gauge ensures quality espresso.
  • Includes all necessary components for immediate use.
  • Pre-infusion feature enhances flavor extraction.

Cons

  • Here are two cons based on the review:
  • Cleaning is involved

CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar – 20-Bar pump for professional espresso extraction.

CASABREWS 3700 Essential Espresso Machine 20 Bar

My goal is to highlight the exceptional features of this espresso machine, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable option. This espresso machine is an excellent entry point into the world of espresso, offering great value for its price. The included instruction book is very helpful, guiding you through the learning curve of brewing espresso.

You can consistently create delicious espresso shots that impress guests. The machine boasts fast heating and ensures optimal brew time and temperature. The machine consistently delivers high-quality results.

Though the steamer wand functions as expected, steaming milk may require some practice. The included tamper/scoop tool, while functional, is typical for machines in this price range; a more robust tamper can be purchased separately for enhanced convenience. Despite plans to upgrade to a machine with a larger portafilter and automatic steaming capabilities, there are no inherent issues with the current machine.

It has proven to be durable and reliable through regular use over an extended period. This espresso machine remains a dependable choice for those seeking an affordable and efficient way to enjoy quality espresso at home.

Pros

  • 20-Bar pump for professional espresso extraction.
  • Makes cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos at home.
  • Includes filters, portafilter, tamper, and manual.
  • Compact design fits home or office use.
  • Semi-automatic operation is simple to use.

Cons

  • Small portafilter size
  • Steamer wand needs work

Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS – Makes quality espresso drinks at home, office.

Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS

In-depth, the Bambino stands out as a high-performing countertop espresso maker, capable of producing espresso that rivals those made on professional machines. Despite its compact size, it delivers satisfactory results, thanks to its sufficient power and materials that eliminate the long warmup times associated with larger machines. The Bambino boasts computer-controlled steam and temperature regulation, ensuring optimal extraction from the grounds and customizable steam application, enhancing the overall espresso quality.

While it may not precisely match the intensity of multi-thousand dollar coffee bar machines, the taste difference is negligible for most. It effortlessly produces satisfactory espresso and americanos. The steam wand performs admirably, creating milk froth comparable to larger machines, and the automated cleaning feature simplifies maintenance by handling the de-scaling and flushing process.

The Bambino’s small footprint is a significant advantage, allowing it to fit seamlessly into even the smallest kitchens. Its design aesthetic is both modern and traditional, exuding a satisfying steel coffee machine style. Overall, the Bambino exceeds expectations by providing a quick, convenient, and high-quality coffee-making experience.

It’s a solid machine that makes a perfect cup of coffee in about 3 minutes, including grinding the beans. Although the hot water spout is slow, alternatives like an electric kettle can be used. The potential for future DIY upgrades to enhance heat and pressure further adds to its appeal.

Pros

  • Makes quality espresso drinks at home, office.
  • Reusable filter helps minimize waste, saves money.
  • Compact design fits easily on any countertop.
  • Durable stainless steel finish offers long-lasting quality.

Cons

  • Hot water stream is quite slow
  • Slightly less heat and pressure

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL – Makes quality espresso from whole beans easily.

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870XL

Is this the one? Experience cafe-quality espresso at home with this machine, a worthwhile upgrade even from super-automatic models. It features its own built-in burr grinder that, while not top-of-the-line, performs admirably and is easily disassembled for cleaning, a feature often absent in super-automatic machines.

The removable hopper allows for seamless switching between different bean types, such as caffeinated and decaffeinated, enhancing your brewing flexibility. Be prepared to experiment with grind settings for different roasts, as each bean type requires unique adjustments. Achieve your perfect cup with the machine’s temperature control, adjustable by 4 degrees in 2-degree increments, subtly altering the espresso’s taste profile.

The machine also offers easy programming for grind amount and shot times, and a pressure gauge provides real-time feedback during extraction, enabling quick adjustments for optimal results. While the steam wand’s control isn’t as precise as some higher-end models, it’s user-friendly and effective for creating lattes and cappuccinos. Cleanup is remarkably easy and quick, and the inclusion of a water filter is beneficial for areas with hard water.

One of the outstanding features is the availability of replacement parts directly from Breville, ensuring the longevity of the machine. While some grounds may scatter beyond the tray during grinding, simple solutions like placing a dish underneath or using a paper towel during tamping can mitigate this. Though the espresso may not be piping hot by default, preheating the cup with hot water or running a blank shot can easily address this.

Overall, the machine provides exceptional value for its price point, delivering quality espresso and a satisfying brewing experience.

Pros

  • Makes quality espresso from whole beans easily.
  • Includes many helpful accessories for perfect espresso.
  • Durable stainless steel finish and reusable filter.
  • Manual operation allows for user control.

Cons

  • Messy grounds happen

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

Choosing the Right Espresso Machine

Selecting the best best countertop espresso machine requires careful consideration of your needs and preferences. Key factors include the types of drinks you want to make (espresso, cappuccino, latte), your budget, ease of use, and desired level of control. Consider features like milk frothers, pre-infusion capabilities, and adjustable shot volumes. A durable stainless steel finish is a plus for longevity and style.

Key Features to Consider

When shopping for the best best countertop espresso machine, pay attention to the pump pressure (20-Bar is a good benchmark for professional extraction), whether it includes a built-in grinder, and the size of the water tank. Reusable filters are environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Look for user-friendly controls and consider models with automatic or semi-automatic operation depending on your experience level. Also, consider the machine’s footprint on your countertop.

Types of Espresso Machines

Countertop espresso machines come in various types, including semi-automatic, automatic, and super-automatic. Semi-automatic machines require more user input, while automatic machines automate the brewing process. Super-automatic machines grind the beans, tamp the grounds, and brew espresso with minimal intervention. Consider which type aligns best with your skill level and desired involvement in the espresso-making process when choosing the best best countertop espresso machine.

Budget and Value

The price of countertop espresso machines can vary significantly. Determine your budget and look for machines that offer the best value for your money. Consider the long-term costs, such as the need for disposable filters (if any) and the durability of the machine. A higher initial investment in a durable, feature-rich machine may be more cost-effective in the long run if you are looking for the best best countertop espresso machine.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Countertop Espresso Machine

What is the ideal pump pressure for a countertop espresso machine?

For optimal espresso extraction, a pump pressure of 15-20 bars is recommended. While some machines advertise higher pressures, the key is consistent pressure within this range. This pressure helps extract the rich flavors and aromas from the coffee grounds, resulting in a quality espresso shot. Consider models that specify their pump pressure to ensure you are getting the most out of your best best countertop espresso machine.

Are manual or automatic espresso machines better?

The choice between manual and automatic espresso machines depends on your experience level and preferences. Manual machines offer more control over the brewing process but require a steeper learning curve. Automatic machines simplify the process, making them ideal for beginners. Consider how much involvement you want in making espresso when choosing the best best countertop espresso machine.

How important is a built-in milk frother?

If you enjoy cappuccinos, lattes, or other milk-based espresso drinks, a built-in milk frother is a valuable feature. It allows you to create creamy, textured milk easily. Some machines have automatic frothers, while others have manual steam wands. Consider your milk frothing preferences when selecting your best best countertop espresso machine.

What are the benefits of a pre-infusion feature?

The pre-infusion feature gently saturates the coffee grounds before full pressure is applied. This allows for more even extraction and enhances the flavor profile of the espresso. It can result in a smoother, less bitter taste. Consider a machine with this feature if you are seeking a superior espresso experience from your best best countertop espresso machine.

How do I clean and maintain my countertop espresso machine?

Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your espresso machine. Descaling the machine regularly removes mineral buildup that can affect its operation. Cleaning the portafilter, filters, and other removable parts after each use is also important. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning procedures for your best best countertop espresso machine.

What accessories should I look for in a countertop espresso machine package?

Essential accessories include a portafilter, tamper, milk frothing pitcher (if applicable), and cleaning tools. Some machines also include additional filters, measuring spoons, and descaling solution. Having these accessories from the start can save you time and money. Make sure the package has everything you need for your best best countertop espresso machine.

How does a reusable filter impact my espresso experience?

A reusable filter is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to disposable filters. It also allows for more consistent extraction and can enhance the flavor of your espresso. Look for machines that come with a high-quality stainless steel reusable filter for optimal results in your best best countertop espresso machine.

Is a built-in grinder necessary for a countertop espresso machine?

A built-in grinder offers convenience and ensures that you are using freshly ground beans for optimal flavor. However, it also adds to the cost of the machine. If you already have a high-quality grinder, you may not need a machine with a built-in grinder. Think about your needs when buying the best best countertop espresso machine.

How does the size of the water tank affect the usability of the machine?

The size of the water tank determines how many espresso shots you can make before needing to refill it. A larger water tank is convenient for households with multiple espresso drinkers. Consider your usage habits when selecting a machine with an appropriately sized water tank for your best best countertop espresso machine.

What is the importance of a durable stainless steel finish?

A stainless steel finish offers durability, resistance to corrosion, and a stylish appearance. It is also easy to clean and maintain. A stainless steel finish can extend the lifespan of your machine and keep it looking its best for years to come. Choose a stainless steel model as your best best countertop espresso machine.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict

After careful consideration of all the options, we believe the CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar stands out as the best overall choice for most users. It offers an excellent balance of features, performance, and value. Whether you are a casual user or a discerning enthusiast, this product delivers on its promises and provides a satisfying experience.

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