Top Espresso Machines Brands
Here's what we recommend for:
Extraction Quality
4.9/5
Profitec machines deliver top-tier espresso with rich flavors, thick crema, and consistently precise extractions. Dual boilers and PID control ensure professional-grade brewing and steaming, making them perfect for advanced users. Though expensive, they offer outstanding performance for those seeking a café-quality experience at home.
Steam System
4.8/5
Profitec machines are known for their commercial-grade steam wands, offering exceptional control and frothing performance. The wands are made of high-quality stainless steel and are designed for professional-level frothing, providing smooth, dense microfoam with ease. Profitec typically offers manual steam wands, allowing for complete customization of milk texture. The frothing technology is highly advanced, with excellent steam power and consistency, making it perfect for those who want to create café-quality...
Boiler Performance
4.9/5
Profitec machines, such as the Profitec Pro 700, feature dual boilers constructed from premium stainless steel and brass. These machines deliver exceptional brewing performance with stable temperature and pressure, thanks to their signature special pressure process, pre-infusion technology, PID controllers and their dual boiler setup. Profitec machines excel in both steam power and brewing precision, offering fast and consistent performance. They are a top-tier choice for serious espresso enthusiasts and professional settings,...
Affordability
3.8/5
Profitec machines are positioned in the mid-to-high range, with prices typically starting at $900 and going up to $2,500 or more. While they are more expensive than entry-level brands, Profitec offers premium features like special pressure process, dual boilers, pre-infusion and PID control, justifying the higher price. For those who want professional-level espresso at home, Profitec offers great value, but it is less affordable for those with a limited budget.

Handcrafted Precision: Masterful engineering and precision

Optimized Extraction: with most advanced brewing group

Stunning Industrial Design with Elegance

Commercial-Grade Components: Known for their solid construction

Designed for Professionals: Best feature-rich option for users with experience

Expensive Initial Investment

No Automatic Frothing: Unlike some other brands, and challenging for beginners
Extraction Quality
4.4/5
Breville machines deliver consistently good espresso with balanced flavor and thick crema, thanks to PID control and precise 9-bar pressure. The ThermoJet system ensures efficient brewing, making them highly convenient for home use. Dual boiler models excel in consistency and precision, while single boiler machines are slightly less stable but still reliable for casual users.
Steam System
4.5/5
Breville offers excellent steam systems, with high-quality stainless steel steam wands that provide good durability and smooth frothing. Their machines feature both manual and automatic steam wands, making them versatile for both beginners and advanced users. The Barista Pro and Dual Boiler models offer great control with manual wands, while the Barista Touch simplifies frothing with an automatic system. The frothing technology is reliable, producing thick, silky microfoam with a...
Boiler Performance
4.3/5
Breville offers a range of espresso machines, primarily featuring single boilers with some high-end dual boiler models, such as the Breville Dual Boiler. They commonly use stainless steel for their higher-end machines and aluminum for entry-level models. Brewing performance is reliable, thanks to PID controllers that ensure consistent temperature stability, especially in models like the Barista Pro. The ThermoJet heating system delivers quick heat-up times, making Breville machines efficient for...
Affordability
4/5
Breville offers a wide range of home espresso machines, with a price range starting from around $300 for entry-level models and going up to approximately $2000 or more for more advanced models. The brand provides excellent value for money, offering lots of features at relatively affordable prices compared to other premium brands. For those seeking quality espresso without breaking the bank, Breville strikes a good balance between affordability and performance.

4 Keys Formula Excellence: Notable ease of use

Automatic Milk Frothing: Simplifies the preparation

Rapid Heating System: For quick start-up

Efficient Boiler Performance: With reliable full-featured system

Affordable Quality: A great balance between affordability and performance

Regular Maintenance Need: For optimal performance
Extraction Quality
4.9/5
Diletta machines shine with excellent espresso quality, delivering rich flavors, thick crema, and precise extractions. Dual boilers and PID control ensure consistent performance and allow simultaneous brewing and steaming. The machines are quick, reliable, and built for demanding users, though their premium price limits accessibility for casual buyers.
Steam System
4.9/5
Diletta excels in steam performance, offering high-quality stainless steel manual steam wands that deliver excellent control and precision. Their machines focus on manual frothing, allowing users to create perfect microfoam for latte art with a bit of practice. The frothing technology is ideal for advanced users who appreciate control, but it does come with a learning curve. The texture and consistency of the froth are exceptional once mastered, making Diletta...
Boiler Performance
4.8/5
Diletta machines, such as the Diletta Mio, feature dual boilers, allowing simultaneous brewing and steaming. They are constructed with high-quality stainless steel and brass, ensuring durability and excellent heat retention. Brewing performance is exceptional, supported by PID controllers that maintain precise temperature control. The dual boiler setup ensures consistent steam and brew capabilities, making Diletta machines suitable for both home and professional use. They are a premium choice, offering outstanding...
Affordability
3.2/5
Diletta’s machines are positioned at the higher end of the market, with prices generally ranging from $1,500 to $2,500 for premium home espresso machines. While the price is higher compared to other brands, Diletta offers excellent quality, precision, and professional-grade production and features like dual boilers and PID control. For users who want top-tier performance and are willing to invest, Diletta provides value, but the brand is less affordable for those...

Elegant Design: Provides Italian artistry aesthetics

Premium Craftsmanship: Hand-built with Italian class

Exceptional Extraction Quality: Consistently precise

Professional-Grade Performance: Satisfies professional users

Compact and Space-Saving Design: Compared to many other brands

Hands-On Experience: No automatic features
Extraction Quality
4.8/5
Lelit machines deliver precise and consistent extractions, resulting in espresso with rich flavors, balanced acidity, and a smooth crema. Advanced features like PID temperature control and pre-infusion ensure optimal brewing conditions for every shot. The machines are designed for precision, allowing users to fine-tune their settings for a professional-level espresso experience. While their manual operation requires some skill, Lelit excels in delivering high-quality extractions for both enthusiasts and seasoned baristas....
Steam System
4.8/5
Lelit espresso machines feature high-quality stainless steel steam wands, offering professional-level performance for home baristas. The Lelit Mara X and other models come with manual wands, providing excellent control for creating smooth microfoam. The frothing technology is reliable, with precise steam pressure for consistent results. While the manual wand requires some practice, the high-quality build and consistent steam pressure make it easier to achieve barista-level froth. Lelit’s machines are perfect...
Boiler Performance
4.7/5
Lelit espresso machines, such as the Lelit Mara X, often feature dual boilers made from stainless steel and brass. Brewing performance is exceptional, with PID controllers providing precise temperature and pressure control. Lelit's machines offer fast heat-up times and consistent steam power, making them suitable for both home and professional use. Known for their high-quality construction and superior performance, Lelit machines are a premium option that justifies their higher cost.
Affordability
2.5/5
Lelit offers mid-range to high-end home espresso machines, with prices ranging from $700 to $2,000, somewhat similar to Breville's range but whitout automation. While Lelit’s machines are not as budget-friendly as entry-level brands, they offer excellent quality, professional features like PID control, and durable construction. For home baristas who want a balance of performance and affordability, Lelit provides great value in the mid-tier market. However, they may not be the best choice...

Professional Extraction: With shot control action

Versatile Range: Offers models for various skill levels

Wooden Elegance: Designs feature top-notch maple wood accents

Expensive Investment: Prices exceed casual buyers’ budgets

Limited Automation: Mostly manual frothing and extraction

Complex Maintenance: Require more frequent and hands-on cleaning
Extraction Quality
5/5
La Marzocco machines stand out with exceptional espresso quality, offering rich flavor, thick crema, and highly consistent extractions. Advanced pre-infusion technology, dual boilers, PID control and built-in shot timer ensure precise temperature and pressure regulation, enabling café-level performance. While expensive, they are perfect for serious enthusiasts or professional use.
Steam System
5/5
La Marzocco is known for its top-tier steam systems, featuring professional-grade, stainless steel steam wands that provide precise control over frothing. Their machines, such as the Linea Mini and GS3, offer manual wands that allow for perfect microfoam creation, ideal for advanced users and baristas. The frothing technology is robust, delivering rich, creamy, and consistent milk texture every time. With dual boilers and advanced steam pressure systems, La Marzocco excels...
Boiler Performance
5/5
La Marzocco machines, such as the Linea Mini, feature dual boilers that allow simultaneous brewing and steaming. Made from premium stainless steel, these machines deliver exceptional heat retention and durability. Brewing performance is outstanding, with PID controllers ensuring precise temperature stability. La Marzocco’s heat and brew technology is among the best in the market, providing fast, reliable, and consistent performance. These machines are ideal for serious coffee enthusiasts or professional...
Affordability
1.5/5
La Marzocco is a premium brand with prices starting around $2,000 and going up to $3,500 or more for high-end models. While the cost is significantly higher than most home espresso machines, the brand justifies its price with professional-level performance, exceptional build quality, and advanced features. La Marzocco is aimed at serious espresso enthusiasts who are willing to invest in top-tier machines, so it is not considered affordable for the...

Masterful Engineering: Known for its signature construction technique

Barista-Level Espresso: With top-tier systems

Timeless Italian Design: Combining Italian artistry and industrial elegance

Global Reputation: Trusted by professionals and enthusiasts worldwide

Extremely High Price Point: Among the most expensive machines on the market

Requires Advanced Knowledge: Best suited for experienced users

Detailed and Complicated Maintenance: Due to professional-grade components
Extraction Quality
3.9/5
Gaggia machines offer reliable espresso with great flavor and crema, though their lack of PID control can result in temperature fluctuations. Heat-up times are moderate, and brewing performance is solid for casual home use. While affordable and durable, these machines are best suited for entry-level users seeking basic espresso quality.
Steam System
4/5
Gaggia offers stainless steel steam wands that perform well for home use, with solid frothing capabilities. The Gaggia Classic Pro features a professional-style manual wand, which provides better control over frothing. Gaggia focuses on manual frothing, which can take time to master but allows for good texture and consistency. Although it’s not as advanced as some premium brands, Gaggia’s frothing system is reliable and effective for those willing to practice....
Boiler Performance
4/5
Gaggia machines primarily feature single boilers, though some models, like the Gaggia Magenta, include heat exchangers for improved performance. Boilers are made of stainless steel, offering durability and decent heat retention. Brewing performance is reliable for casual use, but the absence of PID controllers in many models can result in temperature inconsistencies. Heat-up times are moderate, and while steaming capabilities are sufficient for home use, they may lag behind more...
Affordability
4/5
Gaggia offers home espresso machines with a diverse price range mostly between $300 and $1,300. The brand is known for providing good value, especially for entry-level and mid-range buyers. While Gaggia's more basic machines are very affordable, their higher-end models still offer solid performance at a reasonable price compared to premium competitors. With a price range similar to Philips, Gaggia delivers a comparable quality. Overall, Gaggia is a great choice for...

Diverse Product Selection: From fully automatic to semi-automatic, catering to all needs

Timeless Italian Aesthetic: Both modern functional designs and classic Italian designs

Reliable Performance: By classic Italian craftsmanship

User-Friendly Interface: Machines are designed with simplicity in mind

Good Steam System for Home Use

Enhanced Brewing Accuracy: By PID system for precise control

Regular and Hands-On Descaling Required
Extraction Quality
4/5
Smeg's espresso machines are designed to deliver quality espresso with a rich crema. The manual models offer users the ability to control the brewing process, while the automatic models provide consistent extraction with programmable settings.However, they may have some limitations compared to higher-end machines with dual boilers or PID controllers, but their Italian craftsmanship and touch ensures consistent extraction quality.
Steam System
3.8/5
The steam system in Smeg espresso machines is designed to provide users with the ability to froth milk manually. While functional, the steam wand's performance is less robust compared to higher-end models. Its smaller size may limit the ability to create larger quantities of frothed milk. Nonetheless, it provides the essential functionality needed for creating milk-based coffee drinks.
Boiler Performance
3.9/5
Smeg espresso machines use a thermoblock heating system, which ensures rapid heating and consistent water temperature. However, compared to higher-end models with dual boilers or PID controllers, it may lack temperature stability, impacting extraction consistency over longer brews or multiple drinks. Additionally, simultaneous brewing and steaming can be limited but still suitable for everyday use. However, the craftsmanship and durability of Smeg machines are exceptional, ensuring they last for years of reliable use.
Affordability
3.9/5
Smeg espresso machines are typically priced between $400 and $900, placing them in the mid-range category. They offer a solid balance of functionality, reliability, and design, making them a good choice for those seeking quality at an affordable price. While they are not the cheapest option, they provide a well-rounded experience for users who want dependable performance without a high-end price tag.

Diverse Range, Focused Choices: Covers all machine categories with a focused selection in each

Iconic Vintage Aesthetic, Retro-Inspired Look & Signature Design

Solid Build Quality: Crafted with attention to detail

Simple Interfaces: Easy-to-use even in hands-on models

Moderate Steam Performance: Despite brand's reputation

No PID Control: Lacks precise temperature control

Compact Design: Fit comfortably in various kitchen spaces
Extraction Quality
3.7/5
De'Longhi machines are ideal for beginners, offering decent espresso. While affordable and easy to use, the lack of advanced features like PID control leads to occasional flavor inconsistencies and thinner crema. Higher-end models improve performance but still fall short of the precision and richness offered by premium competitors.
Steam System
3.8/5
De'Longhi machines feature stainless steel steam wands that are functional but not as refined as higher-end brands. Most models have manual wands, though some, like the De'Longhi Magnifica, also include automatic frothing systems for added convenience. The manual wands require practice to achieve microfoam, while the automatic systems simplify frothing but lack precision. While the frothing quality is good for casual use, it doesn’t provide the same texture consistency as...
Boiler Performance
3.5/5
De'Longhi espresso machines typically feature single boilers, supported by Thermoblock technology for faster heat-up times. The machines use a mix of stainless steel and aluminum for their boilers. While brewing performance is adequate for casual users, the absence of PID controllers results in noticeable temperature fluctuations during prolonged use. The Thermoblock system delivers fast heat but lacks the thermal stability of more advanced systems. De'Longhi machines are affordable but limited...
Affordability
4.1/5
De'Longhi is one of the most affordable brands in the home espresso machine market, with a price range starting from around $200 for basic models and around $2000 for flagship models. While De'Longhi's entry-level models are budget-friendly and great for beginners, their premium models still provide good value compared to other high-end brands. Overall, De'Longhi offers excellent affordability, especially for those new to espresso making or looking for a solid,...

Broad Selection: Offering widest range in the market

Advanced Brewing Technology: Reliable in many models

Affordable Options: Providing widest range of price

User-Friendly Interface: Accessible for all users

Entry-Level Models Are Less Durable

No Dual Boiler Models: Most models feature single boiler
Extraction Quality
4.6/5
Rancilio machines are known for reliable espresso with balanced flavors, thick crema, and consistent extractions. Dual boiler models with PID control provide excellent precision, while single boilers are slightly less efficient but still dependable. Durable and well-suited for serious home baristas, Rancilio combines quality and performance.
Steam System
4.7/5
Rancilio machines feature robust, high-quality stainless steel steam wands that perform excellently for both home and semi-professional use. The Rancilio Silvia is particularly famous for its powerful manual steam wand, allowing for precise control over frothing. The frothing technology is manual, offering full customization of milk texture, which may take time to master but delivers fantastic results. The frothing quality is exceptional, with dense, creamy microfoam ideal for latte art....
Boiler Performance
4.7/5
Rancilio machines, feature both single and dual boiler options. Boilers are made from durable and premium stainless steel, offering excellent heat retention. Brewing performance is reliable, especially in dual boiler models that include PID controllers for precise temperature and pressure control. Heat-up times are efficient, and steam performance is strong, making Rancilio machines a great choice for home baristas looking for a professional-grade experience.
Affordability
3/5
Rancilio's lineup is very limited, typically with just two main products: the Silvia and the Silvia Pro, with a price range between $600 and $1,200. While the machines are durable and offer professional-level features, the limited variety means fewer options for home users. Though for a similar price, Gaggia delivers additional features and automation. Despite this, Rancilio’s focus on quality makes it a good choice for those who want a...

Professional-Grade Steam System: Perfect for home baristas

Top-Tier Extraction: Premium and consistent performance

Straightforward Minimalist Design: Simple and functional

Powerful Steam: Commercial-grade engineering

Limited Line-Up: Few alternatives in the collection

No Automatic Features: All hands-on
Extraction Quality
4.6/5
The Meraki Espresso Machine's rotary pump ensures stable 9-bar pressure for perfect espresso shots, while the Timemore® grinder guarantees consistent, precise coffee grounds. The integrated dual scale with real-time measurement observes the weight of coffee grounds and liquid in real-time, ensuring a perfect cup every time. Additionally, the stainless steel group head has an integrated heat retention heater, ensuring optimal temperature stability during extraction. The Meraki Espresso Machine stands out...
Steam System
4.6/5
The Meraki Espresso Machine features a powerful steam wand with an innovative unique built-in temperature sensor, allowing automatic or manual milk frothing to a set temperature. Its long, gooseneck design ensures precise control, while the three-hole tip guarantees dry steam for excellent milk texturing and consistent microfoam. Additionally, the machine’s Smart Auto-Mode offers three levels of steam intensity, giving users the ability to adjust for different milk foam textures.This combination...
Boiler Performance
4.9/5
The Meraki Espresso Machine features a commercial-grade rotary pump and a dual boiler system for exceptional performance. The rotary pump ensures stable 9-bar pressure for perfect espresso shots, while its quiet operation enhances the home environment. The independent 300ml brew boiler provides continuous hot water for uninterrupted extraction, and the 550ml steam boiler offers precise control for milk frothing with consistent texture and microfoam. Advanced PID technology delivers real-time temperature...
Affordability
3/5
Priced at $1,799, for the starting bundle, the Meraki Espresso Machine is somewhat high-end and falls into the upper middle-range. While it offers top-tier features, the cost may not be suitable for all budgets.

NFC CoffeeSense™ Technology: Auto-grind and extraction by scanning coffee bag

Integrated Grinder: Collaborative design with Timemore®

Commercial-Grade Rotary Pump: Stable 9-bar pressure

Magnetic Dosing Cup: Ensuring mess-free operation

Limited Model Range: Currently offers only one model

New Brand with Limited Track Record: No long-term data or user experiences

Premium Price: A significant investment for some users.
Other Espresso Machines Brands
-
netherlands
1 Brand
-
united states
3 Brands
-
australia
1 Brand
-
italy
6 Brands
-
switzerland
1 Brand
-
Ohio
1 Brand
-
germany
1 Brand
-
china
1 Brand
Brands By Country
Everything You Need to Know
About Home Espresso Machines
Love that first sip of espresso in the morning? Why not bring the café experience to your kitchen? A good home espresso machine can turn your home into your personal barista station, and we’re here to help you find the perfect one! This guide breaks down everything you need to know about home espresso machines—from how they work to the key features you should keep in mind when picking your new coffee companion. Get ready, we’ve got tips to help you make the perfect espresso right at home.
How Espresso Machines Work
An espresso machine is designed to brew coffee by forcing pressurized water through finely-ground coffee beans. The process results in a concentrated shot of coffee, known as espresso.
Here’s a quick overview of the key components involved in the brewing process:
Portafilter: The handle and basket where the coffee grounds are placed.
Boiler: Heats the water to the ideal brewing temperature.
Pump: Creates the pressure required to force hot water through the coffee grounds.
Group Head: Where the portafilter attaches to the machine, directing the pressurized water through the coffee grounds.
By controlling these components, espresso machines ensure a perfect cup of espresso.
Types of Espresso Machines
There are four main types of espresso machine, each offering different levels of control, automation, and price. Here's a breakdown:
Manual Espresso Machines
As the most traditional type of machine, manual espresso machines are not the focus of our discussion. They use a lever to apply pressure, which the user must operate by hand, and they don’t consume electricity.
Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines
Similar to the machines commonly found in cafés, they offer a balance between control and convenience. The user is responsible for grinding, tamping, and adding coffee to the portafilter, while the machine automatically handles temperature, pressure, water flow, and the brewing process. These machines allow you to customize your espresso experience.
Automatic Espresso Machines
With automatic machines, you need to prepare the portafilter and press a few buttons. The machine handles the tamping, brewing, timing, and sometimes even the milk frothing.
Super-Automatic Espresso Machines
Super-automatics are the most advanced. You only need to press a button. They grind the beans, tamp, brew, froth milk, and even clean themselves. It gives you the most comfort but no customization or control.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for an espresso machine, there are several important features to consider to ensure you’re getting the best machine for your needs:
Pressure and Pump Systems
Espresso requires a consistent pressure of around 9 bars to extract the perfect shot. Look for machines with a high quality pump to ensure reliable performance.
Temperature Control
Consistent water temperature is key to brewing espresso. Most machines maintain a steady temperature around 200°F. Machines with PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controllers offer more precise control over temperature.
Steam Wand and Frothing Milk
If you enjoy lattes or cappuccinos, a steam wand is essential. It allows you to froth milk to the perfect texture for your favorite drinks. Some machines offer automatic milk frothing features for added convenience.
Grinder and Grind Settings
A built-in grinder provides fresh coffee grounds every time you brew, but it’s important to look for machines with adjustable grind settings to suit different coffee beans and personal preferences.
Drip Tray, Portafilter Size, and Build Quality
A durable build is essential for longevity. Look for machines with stronger materials like stainless steel for better durability. A larger drip tray and portafilter size are also important for larger cups or mugs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a hybrid espresso machine?
Hybrid espresso machines offer both manual control and automation, giving users the flexibility to take charge of certain aspects of the brewing process while also offering automated features when you need just convenience.
What’s the difference between milk frothing systems?
Manual Frothing: This system requires the user’s full control and attention, as it works with a steam wand. It needs a learning curve and some skill, but gives the best froth and foam texture.
Semi-Automatic Frothing: These systems allow you to choose the amount of the milk, temperature and foam level but automatically perform the operation and froth the milk. They give you a bit more control over the final result.
Fully Automatic Frothing: Just fill up the milk container! These systems fully automate the frothing process based on the beverage type and pre-programmed functions. It doesn’t offer much customization but ensures consistency and ease of use.
What is a bean-to-cup machine?
Bean-to-cup machines aren't a separate category, but rather a feature that can be found in some automatic espresso machines. These machines are equipped with a built-in grinder that grinds the beans, then automatically transfers the ground coffee to the portafilter and starts the brewing process.
How often should I clean my espresso machine?
Regularly cleaning your espresso machine is essential for maintaining its performance.
Cleaning the group head, rinsing the portafilter or wiping the steam wand is necessary after each use. However deep cleaning, such as descaling or backflushing, should be done every few months or according to your machine's manual.
Do I need to use filtered water for my espresso machine?
We strongly recommend using filtered or bottled water in your espresso machine. It improves the flavor of your espresso while also preventing mineral buildup inside the machine and keeps your machine in good condition. Hard water can lead to scaling, which can reduce your machine’s efficiency and lifespan.
How do I know when it’s time for a deep cleaning of my espresso machine?
For deep cleanings, such as descaling or backflushing, most machines have a reminder or indicator light that alerts you when it's time. Typically, this should be done every 2-3 months, depending on water hardness and usage frequency, though you can also follow the guidelines in the machine's manual.
What is PID control in espresso machines?
PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control is a system that precisely manages the temperature, and ensures water remians consistently stable.
If the temperature drops below the ideal level, the PID system prevents brewing operation, and activates the heating elements until the water reaches the optimal range.
Sometimes delays the brewing but this helps prevent poor extraction.
Can I use capsules in espresso machines?
In some espresso machines, commonly known as all-in-one machines, using capsules is an option, but most machines do not support this, as they operate on different systems. For more details on capsule-based machines, check out our Single-Serve Espresso Machines page.
KEEP READING
-
netherlands
1 Brand
-
united states
3 Brands
-
australia
1 Brand
-
italy
6 Brands
-
switzerland
1 Brand
-
Ohio
1 Brand
-
germany
1 Brand
-
china
1 Brand