Top 10 Best Nespresso Machines For The Money 2020 Reviews

The Best Home Espresso Machines of 2020: Reviews and Buying Guide

Getting the best espresso machine for your home is a dream come true for any coffee connoisseur. But how do you choose the right machine? What are the desirable features?

This write-up aims to answer these questions and arm you with the knowledge to make an educated choice. Before you go any further we’ll give you a quick overview of the best espresso machine. But don’t hesitate to read on and find your top pick.

Breville – The Barista Express Coffee Machine

This machine has all the bells and whistles to provide you with a true barista experience at the comfort of your home. From a 15-bar Italian pump to a 67-ounce removable water reservoir, this Breville is designed to impress. It also has a burr grinder.

The following list provides you with quick reviews of the finest espresso machines out there. There are models that fit any budget and style. Whatever your coffee making preferences – automatic, semi-automatic, or manual – this article has got you covered.

The below list covers espresso machine in various price ranges. If you’re looking for a machine to fit in your budget, these posts may help:

Otherwise – on to the reviews!

1. Breville The Barista Express Coffee Machine (BES870BXL) – Best Overall

Type of machine: Semi-automatic Number of boilers: Single Size: 12.6” x 13.2” x 15.8” Weight: 23 pounds Built-in grinder? Yes Built-in steam wand? Yes Water tank capacity: 67oz

BEST SUITED FOR: This espresso machine is designed for true coffee connoisseurs. If you want to get a brew that’s very similar, if not the same as the one in a coffee shop, the Breville is a perfect choice.

Breville is an espresso maker brand that needs little introduction. The model in this review has everything you need to achieve brewing perfection that can rival the quality commercial-grade machines offer.

For starters, this Breville has a 15-bar Italian pump and a powerful thermo-coil heater. Plus, the machine features digital temperature control which is there to ensure the water hits the grounds at the exact temperature. Why is this important?

The Italian Espresso National Institute states that a true espresso is characterized by a specific color, texture, and crema consistency. [3] To achieve this, you need a machine that gives you the right temperature and pressure – 190 °F at around 9 bars.

Needless to say, a perfect espresso is also about nailing the right grind. This model has a built-in burr grinder and there is a knob that lets you select the grind amount. In addition, the Breville has an analog pressure gauge, so there’s no guessing if you’ve hit the right bar.

Finally, the Breville has a bunch of useful accessories. Of course, you get the filters and a tamp. Finally, the package also includes cleaning tablets, as well as a small brush and a hexagon tool. By the way, have we mentioned that this bad boy is one of the best latte machines, too?

There is actually a nice little trick you can do with this machine. If you leave the portafilter in for about 30 seconds after you’re done it will suck the water out so you can have a nice dry puck.

2. De’Longhi Espresso and Cappuccino Maker (EC155) – Best Budget

Type of machine: Semi-automatic Number of boilers: Single Size: 8.0” x 10.0” x 11.0” Weight: 6.68 pounds Built-in grinder? No Built-in steam wand? Yes Water tank capacity: 35oz

BEST SUITED FOR: The De’Longhi EC155 is a great option for those who are just starting to explore the exciting world of home-made espresso.

If you are on a tight budget, De’Longhi EC155 should be right up your alley. Don’t get this wrong, the relatively low price doesn’t mean you’ll be making compromises in terms of brew quality. In fact, this is also one of the most versatile machines out there because it allows you to use both pods and ground coffee.

The EC155 has a 15-bar pump and a single stainless steel boiler to help you zero in on the correct temperature and pressure. In all fairness, few machines in this price range offer these features, but this De’Longhi has even more aces up its sleeve.

This espresso maker has adjustable controls so you can get the perfect extraction each time. The steam dial blocks the swivel frother when you don’t need it. The machine also has two thermostats, one for steam and the other for water pressure.

The De’Longhi comes with a removable water reservoir and a drip tray to make refills and maintenance easier. It’s worth noting that the machine can fit a 6.6-inch cup at max and that it has an advanced cappuccino system. To make things clear, this system minimizes the waiting time between the cups.

On top of that, the EC155 features self-priming operation designed to save your time. There is no need to wait for the heating elements to reach the desired temperature because the machine does it for you.

3. De’Longhi Espresso Maker (EC702) – Best Under 200

Type of machine: Semi-Automatic Number of boilers: Single Size: 9.0” x 11.0” x 12.0” Weight: 11 pounds Built-in grinder? No Built-in steam wand? Yes Water tank capacity: 44oz

BEST SUITED FOR: The EC702 is a good option for espresso-hungry households and even small offices. It’s super easy to use so it’s also suitable for beginners.

Can you get an excellent espresso maker for under $200? Of course you can, and the De’Longhi EC702 is there to prove it. And at first glance, it’s easy to understand that this machine is designed to provide brews of outstanding quality.

First of all, the EC702 has a stainless steel and metal body that secures durability and easy maintenance. These design elements also make the machine look cool, but the internals are what really matters.

The De’Longhi has a 15-bar water pump that features an automatic self-priming system for a faster brewing cycle. Similar to other machines from the company’s lineup, the EC702 has two thermostats and a rapid cappuccino system.

Given these specs, it’s not hard to guess that the EC702 is an espresso and cappuccino maker. It has a 44oz removable water reservoir which should be enough for more than 10 cups of espresso. And just a quick note – if the machine becomes noisy, it means that it’s time for a refill. What’s more, the machine is engineered to work with espresso pods and ground coffee. However, it doesn’t have a grinder and you don’t get too many accessories. The package includes the portafilter with filters and a tamper. Nonetheless, this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker.

If you’re looking for more picks under this price range, read out guide to the best espresso machines under $200 here.

4. Breville the Infuser Espresso Machine (BES840XL/A) – Best Under 500

Type of machine: Semi-automatic Number of boilers: Single Size: 11.5” x 13.2” x 13.7” Weight: 17 pounds Built-in grinder? No Built-in steam wand? Yes Water tank capacity: 61oz

BEST SUITED FOR: The Breville Infuser is a great option for those who wish for a premium machine that’s built to last and deliver a precision brew every time.

When you think about it, this price range isn’t too much for a brand-name espresso machine. The Breville Infuser is a mid-range model, but it sports a high-quality body and the superior brewing power of its bigger brothers.

The Infuser has an Italian pump that delivers 15 bars of pressure. There are volumetric control presets, though you can override them manually. The heating system is thermo-coil and the model has precise temperature controls.

You get an analog gauge and there is a button to choose the brewing program. Another major highlight is Breville’s portafilter. It has a plastic insert to prevent heat loss and splashing when the pressurized water hits the filter basket.

With this model, Breville didn’t skimp on the accessories. The machine is bundled with a coffee scoop, two filter baskets, cleaning disc and tablets, milk jug, water filter, and more. Another thing that goes in favor of this unit is its compactness.

The machine measures 11.5 x 13.2 x 13.7 inches and weighs 17 pounds. This makes it suitable for smaller kitchens and offices, plus you won’t struggle to relocate it if need be. The 61oz removable tank makes refills easy.

Lastly, there is a separate hot-water outlet which works great if you like to brew hot chocolate or an Americano. Here are more of the best espresso machines under $500.

5. Rancilio Silvia Espresso Machine – Best Under 1000 (serious semi-automatic)

Type of machine: Semi-automatic Number of boilers: Single Size: 9.2” x 11.4” x 13.3” Weight: 30 pounds Built-in grinder? No Built-in steam wand? Yes Water tank capacity: 64oz

BEST SUITED FOR: Those who live in a household of six or more people will cherish this machine. However, commercial application is where its characteristics really shine.

Believe it or not, a budget of under $1000 can get you a machine with commercial-grade features. And this model from Rancilio Silvia can satisfy the needs of any household and most offices. What’s more, it wouldn’t look out of place at high-frequency meeting rooms and convention centers.

The characteristics that make the Rancilio Silvia so versatile are the build quality and top-notch brewing capacity. The machine has a 64oz removable water reservoir and a single chrome-plated brass boiler. It can hold up to 12oz of water which is among the highest in the class.

As for the exterior, this Rancilio combines stainless steel and iron. To be exact, the side shell panels are made of stainless steel and the frame is iron. This does make the machine a bit heavy at about 30 pounds. However, this unit is designed for stationary use and it’s quite compact – measuring 9.2 x 11.4 x 13.3 inches.

Other things that make Rancilio the best espresso machine under $1000 are the top-notch portafilter and group head design. The portafilter has a patented ergonomic handle and the head is engineered to provide improved extraction quality and stability. This Rancilio Silvia has an articulating steam wand and a commercial-grade steam knob so you can easily nail the froth in your latte. The package includes a temper, a coffee scoop, and two filter baskets. There is also a separate capsule/pod filter basket adapter, but it’s sold separately.

If you’d like to check out more similar machines, read our guide to the best espresso machines under $1000 here.

6. De’Longhi Dedica Espresso Machine (EC680M) – Best Compact

Type of machine: Semi-automatic Number of boilers: Single Size: 5.8” x 12.0” x 12.9” Weight: 9 pounds Built-in grinder? No Built-in steam wand? Yes Water tank capacity: 37oz

BEST SUITED FOR: The De’Longhi Dedica is great for beginners and veteran coffee connoisseurs alike. And it offers an optimal balance of price and features.

Looking for an espresso maker that would look cool on your desktop next to your computer screen? If so, you need to check out what this De’Longhi has to offer. In addition, the machine is great to make big living in a small kitchen.

Dimensions-wise, the EC680M measures 5.8 x 12.0 x 12.9 inches and weighs 9 pounds. The body is made entirely from stainless steel and the available color options include metallic, red, and black.

Aside from the eye-catching looks and petite size, this machine has good brewing capacity and features that can give much bigger units a good run for their money. It comes with a dual group head and a 3-in-1 filter holder. There is a separate holder for one and two espresso shots, plus you get a holder for espresso pods.

Being a semi-automatic machine, the EC680M does most of the heavy lifting. It features an automatic flow-stop system that provides the correct amount of espresso with each brew. At the same time, this is a 15-bar espresso maker so you don’t need to worry whether the pressure is right or not.

The drip tray and water reservoir are removable and dishwasher-ready. The reservoir is also completely transparent so there is no guessing how much water is left.

7. De’Longhi Magnifica Super Automatic Espresso Machine (ESAM3300) – Best Automatic Machine

Type of machine: Automatic Number of boilers: Dual Size: 11.0” x 14.4” x 15.3” Weight: 23.2 pounds Built-in grinder? Yes Built-in steam wand? Yes Water tank capacity: 60oz

BEST SUITED FOR: The De’Longhi Magnifica is an excellent family coffee machine. Ample water capacity, settings for different types of coffee, and ease of use make this machine a great choice.

Being a super automatic espresso machine (like many Jura coffee machines), the De’Longhi ESAM3300 is designed for brewing precision and speed. The machine allows you to easily customize the brewing settings to your preferences and it can remember the presets. But this is something you could have guessed just by looking at it.

The genuine highlight of this model hides on the inside. The Magnifica has one of the smallest and most efficient brewing systems. And the boiler’s compactness provides heat distribution that’s hard to rival. This automatic machine utilizes the beans-to-brew system and has a bean hopper capacity of 7.1oz.

What’s more, the boiler and reservoir are removable which makes maintenance a breeze. There is no need to use any cleaning tablets or other agents. After you put everything back, it takes just two espresso shots for it to readjust.

Due to smart engineering, the Magnifica is also relatively compact and lightweight, measuring 11.0 x 14.4 x 15.3 inches and weighing 23.2 pounds. Combine this with the appealing aesthetics and the Magnifica is truly a unit that can fit into any kitchen.

As an added benefit, the De’Longhi has a proprietary cappuccino frother which allows you to manually create rich froth. The steam wand swivels 180° so it’s easy to position milk jugs of different sizes.

8. La Pavoni Europiccola Espresso Machine (EPC-8) – Best Manual Machine

Type of machine: Manual Number of boilers: Single Size: 7.0” x 11.0” x 12.0” Weight: 14 pounds Built-in grinder? No Built-in steam wand? Yes Water tank capacity: 20oz

BEST SUITED FOR: Espresso enthusiasts. Brewing is a ritual and the lever action puts you in charge of the process. It takes time to become a master, but that’s where all the fun comes from.

La Pavoni Europiccola is designed for hard-core connoisseurs and those who have previous experience with espresso brewing. The machine is steam pressure and piston-operated and it has an internal thermostat. The pressure is monitored at all times to provide consistent results with each pull of the lever.

The exterior is made of chrome-plated stainless steel and handles and knobs feature durable plastic. Overall, this kind of design gives the machine a vintage, stylish look and provides great resistance to wear and tear.

Interested in a lever machine? read our guide to the best manual espresso machines here.

As for the brewing capacity, the Europiccola can deliver up to eight 2oz espresso shots and the reservoir can hold up to 20 fluid ounces. The heating element is made of brass with nickel plating on top. The machine also features a safety valve to release excess pressure and a water gauge.

The machine has a traditional steam wand that can heat up milk for your cappuccino or create thick rocky foam. It’s worth noting that the Europiccola comes with one double-spout portafilter as well as one and two-cup baskets.

Size-wise, this La Pavoni measures 7 x 11 x 12 inches and weighs about 14 pounds. As such, it is a great choice for those who are strapped for space, yet wish to enjoy a custom shot of espresso.

9. Nespresso Vertuo Espresso Machine – Best Pod Espresso Machine

Type of machine: automatic Number of boilers: Single Size: 8.3” x 11. 91” x 11.93” Weight: 11 pounds Built-in grinder? No Built-in steam wand? No Water tank capacity: 40oz

BEST SUITED FOR: if you like the convenience of using espresso pods and don’t want to compromise on coffee quality, Nespresso Vertuo is for you.

The interesting thing about this coffee machine is that it is the result of a collaboration between Nespresso and Breville. It’s safe to assume that Breville is responsible for the design and engineering while Nespresso provided the grounds and pods.

As a pod machine, the Vertuo is fully automatic and the brewing process is streamlined to the max. Position the pod, move the lever to the left, and wait for the machine to do its magic. This unit works only with Nespresso Vertuo capsules and it takes five different single-serve sizes (1.35oz to 14oz).

When it comes to extraction, the Vertuo utilizes Nespresso Centrifusion technology. This means the pods spin at 7,000 rpm to provide for a smooth blend and exceptional crema. There is also a kind of a pre-infusion cycle because the grounds get wetter before the rotation.

Another thing that shouldn’t be overlooked is the unique Vertuo design. The unit features an elegant body that’s reminiscent of the art deco style. In other words, this espresso machine can easily become a conversation piece in your kitchen.

On top of that, you don’t need a super large kitchen to fit in the Vertuo. This model measures 8.3 x 11.91 x 11.93 inches and weighs about 11 pounds. At 40oz, the Vertuo’s tank has enough capacity for 20 espresso shots or 13 regular cups of coffee.

10. Wacaco Minipresso GR – Best Portable Espresso Maker

Type of machine: Semi-automatic (manual) Number of boilers: None Size: 2.36” x 2.75” x 6.89” Weight: 0.8 pounds Built-in grinder? No Built-in steam wand? No Water tank capacity: 2.35oz or 3.80oz

BEST SUITED FOR: Want a reinvigorating shot of espresso wherever you go? If so, you shouldn’t think twice about getting the Wacaco Minipresso GR.

The Wacaco Minipresso GR fits any backpack or oversized jacket pocket. What’s more, this machine is perfectly suitable for adventurers who’d like to enjoy a cup of espresso off the grid.

Unlike other models on the best espresso machine list, the Minipresso GR is a handheld device and it’s roughly the size of a travel coffee mug. To be precise, the unit measures 2.36 x 2.75 x 6.89 inches and weighs 0.8 pounds. More importantly, this espresso maker doesn’t require electricity or N2O cartridges to work.

Once you pour hot water and place coffee into designated cups, you should unlock the piston and press on it to extract your espresso shot. As such, this machine can be regarded as fully manual but the manufactured labeled the machine as semi-automatic.

Categorization aside, the Minispresso GR is designed to give you an espresso shot as rich as possible. You need to make a few pushes for the machine to reach optimal extraction pressure and then your espresso starts oozing from the bottom of the unit.

This espresso machine has a 2.35oz water reservoir which is quite impressive for its size. It gives you enough versatility to enjoy a cup of caffé lungo or ristretto, no matter where you are. And you can also upgrade and get a 3.30oz reservoir.

11. Mr. Coffee Café Barista Espresso and Cappuccino Maker – Best Latte Machine

Type of machine: Semi-automatic Number of boilers: Single Size: 8.86” x 11.22” x 12.6” Weight: 10.37 pounds Built-in grinder? No Built-in steam wand? Automatic frother (built-in steam wand) Water tank capacity: 17oz

BEST SUITED FOR: Brewing enthusiasts who can’t imagine a day without a cup of top-quality latte.

This espresso machine has a lot going in its favor; it’s semi-automatic, compact, and is available at a price that won’t break the bank. But what are the exact specs that make this espresso maker stand out?

First, water and milk reservoirs are removable and transparent for easy refills and maintenance. The brewing is initiated by a simple push of a button and there are lights to indicate the cup size. A dedicated button turns on the automatic frother and there is a knob that lets you control the frothing action.

The manufacturer recommends that you take out the full milk reservoir and keep it in the fridge until you need it the next time. This is practical indeed, but it might be better to actually clean and refill the reservoir for each brew to ensure your froth is as fresh as possible.

As for the internals, the Mr. Coffee machine features a 15-bar pump so there is no need to guess if you’ve got the right pressure. There are no exact specs about the heating element, though this is a single-boiler model and it delivers the right temperature.

When it comes to the size, the machine measures 8.86 x 11.22 x 12.6 inches and weighs 10.37 pounds. This means you can easily find a nook for it even if your kitchen countertop is quite small or crowded. In addition, this model wins some extra points in the style category because it’s available in four different colors.

How to Select the Best Home Espresso Machines

There are a few things you should know about espresso makers before tying the knot. The following sections provide a quick guide through desirable features and note-worthy brands.

What Are the Features to Look for?

Features such as type of boiler and the pre-infusion cycle can make or break your brew. However, this is not the end of it and the more you spend the more features you get. On the bright side, it’s not all about the money. Here’s what you need to know even if you are on a tight budget.

Portafilter

Your coffee goes into the portafilter and its design can significantly affect the brew quality. In general, portafilters can be divided into two categories – pressurized and commercial.

Most budget machines have the pressurized variety that measures between 49mm and 54mm. These are made of aluminum and give you some leeway in terms of grind fineness. You also don’t need that much tamping, but the crema may suffer.

Commercial portafilters are bigger, around 58mm, and you need finer grain and more tamping to get a good brew. Due to this, it takes some practice to master using this kind of portafilter.

Single vs. Dual Boiler

The difference between single and dual boiler machines is very simple. Single-boiler models have one internal unit that heats the water and dual-boiler models feature two. But why is this important?

With two boilers you get individual water temperature controls. One is dedicated to the pressurized water that hits the grounds in the portafilter and the other goes through the steam wand. You can use both boilers at the same time, thus cutting the preparation time and getting better results. The materials for boiler heating elements also play an important role. [1] When choosing a machine its best to go for the one with a copper boiler because copper is great at retaining and maintaining heat.

Pre-Infusion Cycle

Pre-infusion, also referred to as bloom, can have a big influence on the final result. The cycle itself may last between 30 and 60 seconds and during this time your grounds get wet before the brewing actually starts.

This should allow for even water distribution over the grounds and ensure the coffee bed gets an equal amount of water all around. You should know that the actual pre-infusion and extraction time may depend on the volume of espresso you are brewing, as well as your machine. [2]

For example, most models have five-second pre-infusion and about 25-second extraction when you make a single espresso shot.

Steam Wand

If cappuccinos and lattes are your guilty pleasure, a machine with a steam wand is a must. This tool runs pressurized steam through a nozzle and into the milk to create froth or cream.

The features you need to pay attention to are the nozzle design and the control knob. The nozzle should have at least three holes to provide even steam distribution. The knob gives you additional room to create a fluffy froth.

In addition, it helps if you can move the wand to fit different sizes of coffee cups and mugs. However, it takes some time and practice to nail the routine.

First, purge the steam wand; you want to get rid of the milk residues and condensation water. Introduce the steam wand into the jug. Make sure to have it positioned in a straight angle passing along the side of the jug.

Types of Espresso Machines

Manual

Manual espresso machines are old-school and look really cool. They have a lever you pull and hold during the extraction process, giving you the most control over the final brew. That being said, mastering the required technique is not easy.

Semi-Automatic

This type is the most popular and it gives you a good amount of control over the brewing process. The precision pulling is done by the machine itself and you only need to make sure to get the right amount of water to extract your espresso. There is usually a button that initiates the extraction and you should press it once you are satisfied with the final result.

Automatic

The brew time control is the main difference between the automatic and semi-automatic espresso machines. These units have a flowmeter that regulates the water flow through the portafilter. However, you are still responsible for properly tempering the grounds into the portafilter.

Super Automatic Machines

Super automatic espresso machines offer single button operation. In other words, they do everything for you and some even include an automatic frother. For example, the machines that use espresso pods fall into the super-automatic category. Here’s where we listed the best super automatic espresso machines.

Top Espresso Machine Manufacturers

Breville

You might not know it, but Breville is an international brand that has been around since the ’30s. Their line of espresso machines is hard to rival and they stand out with exceptional build quality and superior brewing characteristics.

De’Longhi

De’Longhi is an Italian brand that has been producing espresso machines for more than 100 years. They offer models that fit any budget and style, so you shouldn’t think twice about this brand.

Rancilio Silvia

This is one of the brands that you might see in commercial settings. Like De’Longhi, it hails from Italy and offers machines that reflect the love of coffee and the decades spent perfecting the engineering necessary for a great cup of espresso.

La Pavoni

La Pavoni is the Lamborghini of espresso makers, so to say. The company mostly specializes in manual and lever operated units and their models offer outstanding design and performance.

Mr. Coffee

Founded in the 1970s, Mr. Coffee is among the younger brands in the industry. Their machines are easy to operate, provide good brews, and offer excellent value for the money.

Nespresso

If you are into pod espresso makers, Nespresso is the brand that should be on top of your list. The company partnered with Breville to create the famous Vertuo line that features some of the best pod espresso machines you can get.

Do You Need Any Accessories?

The quick answer is yes, you do. First and foremost, freshly ground coffee yields a better brew, so you should look for a model that comes with a burr grinder. If you like lattes and cappuccinos, a milk jug is a must, but this accessory isn’t featured on all the machines.

On the other hand, tamp is a common part of an espresso kit and it’s great if you get one that’s made of metal. Cleaning tools and tablets are always a plus unless, of course, you get a model that offers automatic self-cleaning.

With all that in your hand, you can now start practicing to pull the perfect shot of espresso

The Verdict

By now, you should already have picked your favorite from the list and rest assured you won’t be making a wrong choice. However, The Barista Express from Breville is the model that rightfully earns the title of the best espresso machine.

It features superior heating technology and you can be certain the pressure will be right each time; remember, the Barista Express has an analog gauge. What’s more, it comes with all the accessories you need to start brewing right out of the box.

1. What Is the Most Reliable Espresso Machine?

The Barista Express from Breville is the most reliable espresso machine and the same goes for the Infuser model from the same company. The reliability comes from the superior build quality and precision engineering these machines feature.

2. How Do I Choose an Espresso Machine for My Home?

You choose the best machine for your home by assessing your needs. First, you need to check the available space to determine the right machine size.

Next, think about the brewing capacity, the espresso drinks you’d like to make, and it also pays to check different types of machines. Your budget plays a role as well, and you should be ready to spend a few hundreds for a model that offers reliable service.

3. How Long Will an Espresso Machine Last?

An espresso machine typically lasts between 5 and 15 years, depending on the model and the brand. For example, machines from manufacturers such as Breville, De’Longhi, and Rancilio Silvia are known to offer well over a decade of service.

Mind you, espresso machines need proper maintenance and occasional servicing. This way, you may get even more years from your machine.

Coffee lover and Dad, on a budget. Since the wishes of my beautiful wife and two charming kids are of course of much higher priority than my own ones, I always keep an eye out for coffee products which give me the biggest bang for the buck!