Best Coffee Espresso Machines
Turn a knob and press the button to enjoy a delicious beverage. The machine won't win any beauty contests, but it makes a delicious cup of espresso. Our test subjects reported that the taste was more like coffee than other machines.
It also requires a bit more effort to use than other models we've looked at. It's worth the effort for those who are a Java enthusiast who prefers to keep your hands off.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus is the best Nespresso machine to purchase when you're looking for efficiency and consistency. The Vertuo Plus has a minimalist design that blends with your kitchen decor and is simple to use. Simply place a capsule in then press brew, and enjoy your beverage. The machine automatically adjusts the brewing parameters to maximize extraction based on the barcode of the capsule. This is a major selling point for the Nespresso Vertuo line, since you don't have to worry about setting different temperatures or pressure for each type of drink. However, it restricts your choices to Nespresso pods and does not include the built-in milk maker.
The Vertuo Plus uses Nespresso Centrifusion to create a rich and smooth crema. The machine spins up to 7000rpm in order to remove all the flavors and aromas from each capsule. It also heats up and dispenses water at the same time, allowing you to make American drip espresso or coffee.
The Vertuo Plus is more affordable than Creatista Pro. This makes it an excellent upgrade for those who are looking to improve their Nespresso experience. The Vertuo Plus has a smaller water tank of 40 ounces as compared to the its deluxe counterpart's 60 ounces. That being said, if you're planning on making big drinks frequently or sharing with guests, the deluxe version is a good option.
2. Barista Express Impress
Breville's Barista Express Impress is an eye-catching machine with a premium design and practical features. Its dosing system is intelligent and assisted tamping can help beginners automatize elements of the process making it much easier for anyone to make an espresso that is good. It also allows small adjustments to the water temperature which experienced baristas will appreciate, as just a few degrees can alter the taste of the coffee.
The machine comes with conical burr grinder of high quality that has 25 grind settings to suit any kind of coffee. It also comes with a stainless steel milk jug and one- and two-cup single-and double-wall filter baskets, which means you can decide how many shots you'll be making at a time. The frothing arm can be used to make micro-foam for cappuccinos and lattes.
The interface of the espresso machine is easy to navigate and clearly explains each step. We also appreciated that the machine doesn't include many plastic parts and is very robust. It's not inexpensive, but it's a well-built machine with a lot of features that will last for years to come. It also comes with a great warranty that covers any mechanical issues for a year from the date of purchase. This is pretty impressive for a machine of this value. If you're interested in making coffee regularly, it's definitely worth the money.
3. Gaggia Classic
Gaggia's Classic first came out in 1991 and quickly developed a cult following thanks to its simplicity style and, of course, the ability to make a delicious espresso. It's back and better than ever in the new Classic Pro. Although the Classic Pro isn't as advanced as other machines of the same price, it's still capable of serving espresso of a cafe quality using the portafilter that is professional grade and group. However as only a single boiler machine, it will not be able to make espresso and steam at the same time and you'll need to wait for a little while between pulling a shot.
With a sleek, industrial design that looks chic and feels solid in your hands the Classic Pro features simple switches for On/Off, brewing/steam and special indicator lights that make it easy to get familiar with. The frames and switches are more durable than the Classic making this machine feel genuine premium feel.
The Classic Pro comes with few accessories, but the 58-millimeter portafilter is an excellent addition. Also the tamper in plastic is a nice addition. A 3-way solenoid is also a nice addition. It helps prevent water pressure fluctuations and helps to get rid of the sloppy espresso pucks that less expensive machines struggle to accomplish. Gaggia has also included an attractive steam wand, which does a great job of frothing milk to create latte art.
4. De'Longhi COM532M
This machine from De'Longhi is a ideal choice for those looking to make barista quality coffee at home. It is simple to use, and has numerous features. espresso makers includes a stainless-steel boiler, portafilter, and Brewhead, as well as an easily-removable water tank. It is also small which means it can fit on most counters.
This espresso machine is equipped with an 15 bar pressure pump that ensures consistent results. It is also able to heat up within less than 40 seconds, which will save your time and energy. It is easy to clean and looks stunning on any countertop. The De'Longhi is an excellent choice for coffee lovers looking to make their own coffee at home.
This is a combination coffee and espresso maker that can make up to two cups of coffee simultaneously. Dual heating allows you to make espresso and drip coffee simultaneously. This is a great feature for parties as it lets you serve your guests their preferred drinks at the same time.
The espresso machine comes with a milk frother which can be used to make delicious and creamy cappuccinos and Latte. It's also easy to use, with an easy-to-use touchscreen and buttons. The machine is quiet and does not produce a lot of noise when operating.