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10 Best Cheap Espresso Machines 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BSXL, Black Sesame

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,416
Grinder
Milk Frothing
Pressure

Most important from
26808 reviews

Grinder
The integrated grinder is convenient and easy to clean, allowing for fresh grounds and customization with different beans.
Milk Frothing
The steam wand requires some practice to master but can produce microfoam suitable for latte art.
Pressure
The machine offers precise temperature control and pressure monitoring, helping to achieve balanced and flavorful espresso.
Ease of Cleaning
Maintenance is manageable with easy-to-change filters and cleaning cycles, though descaling is often done less frequently than recommended.

The Breville Barista Express is a semi-automatic espresso machine designed for home users who want a quality coffee experience without stepping into fully manual machines. It features an integrated conical burr grinder, which grinds fresh coffee directly into the portafilter, ensuring good flavor control. With a 15-bar pump pressure and digital temperature control (PID), it provides consistent espresso extraction, helping you get a balanced and flavorful cup. The machine has a 67-ounce water tank, which is quite generous for home use, reducing the need for frequent refills.

It also includes a manual steam wand that lets you froth milk to create microfoam, perfect for lattes or cappuccinos, though it requires some practice to master. The unit's stainless steel build and included cleaning tools make maintenance manageable, but it still needs regular cleaning to keep performance steady. While the machine is pricier than basic budget models, it offers more control and quality features often missing in cheaper espresso makers. Its grind size dial and dose control are helpful for customizing your coffee, making it suitable for beginners who want to learn barista skills without overwhelming complexity.

However, the machine is relatively heavy and occupies a fair amount of counter space. It is better suited for users willing to invest some time in preparation and cleaning, so those seeking a super simple one-button espresso might find it less convenient. In summary, the Breville Barista Express represents a solid choice for anyone wanting an affordable entry into making café-style espresso at home with fresh ground beans and milk steaming capabilities.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,416
Grinder
Milk Frothing
Pressure

Most important from
26808 reviews

Grinder
The integrated grinder is convenient and easy to clean, allowing for fresh grounds and customization with different beans.
Milk Frothing
The steam wand requires some practice to master but can produce microfoam suitable for latte art.
Pressure
The machine offers precise temperature control and pressure monitoring, helping to achieve balanced and flavorful espresso.
Ease of Cleaning
Maintenance is manageable with easy-to-change filters and cleaning cycles, though descaling is often done less frequently than recommended.
#2

De'Longhi All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker & Espresso Machine + Advanced Adjustable Milk Frother for Cappuccino & Latte + Glass Coffee Pot 10-Cup, COM532M black

Rating
8.2
Pressure
Type of Machine
Ease of Cleaning

Most important from
16488 reviews

Pressure
The machine delivers a perfect espresso with just the right pressure, reflecting excellent craftsmanship and sturdy design.
Type of Machine
The machine provides excellent value for money, especially for those seeking both espresso and drip coffee in one device without complexity.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning is simple as the parts come apart easily, streamlining maintenance.

The De'Longhi All-in-One Combination Coffee Maker & Espresso Machine is a versatile choice for those wanting both espresso and drip coffee in one device without spending too much. It uses a strong 15 BAR pressure pump, which is great for making authentic, rich espresso. Thanks to its dual heating system, you can brew coffee and espresso at the same time, saving time when you need both. The built-in advanced steam wand is a nice feature for making creamy lattes or cappuccinos, with settings to adjust milk frothing to your preference.

A 10-cup water tank supports multiple coffees before needing a refill, which is convenient for families or small offices. The digital touchscreen and 24-hour programmable timer make it easy to customize your coffee and wake up to fresh brew. The machine weighs over 13 pounds and is somewhat large, so it might take up a good amount of counter space. Cleaning might require some effort since it has several components like filters and the steam wand, which need regular maintenance.

While it doesn’t have a built-in grinder, it supports pods and ground coffee, adding some flexibility. This machine suits users looking for a budget-friendly, all-in-one espresso and coffee maker that offers good pressure and milk frothing without complicated operation. If you want a compact, simpler machine or one with a grinder built-in, this might not fully meet your needs.

Rating
8.2
Pressure
Type of Machine
Ease of Cleaning

Most important from
16488 reviews

Pressure
The machine delivers a perfect espresso with just the right pressure, reflecting excellent craftsmanship and sturdy design.
Type of Machine
The machine provides excellent value for money, especially for those seeking both espresso and drip coffee in one device without complexity.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning is simple as the parts come apart easily, streamlining maintenance.
#3

CASABREWS CM5418 Espresso Machine 20 Bar, Compact Espresso Maker with Steam Milk Frother, Stainless Steel Coffee Machine with 34oz Removable Water Tank for Cappuccino, Gift for Women or Men, Silver

Rating
7.9
Boiler Type
Milk Frothing
Ease of Cleaning

Most important from
6444 reviews

Boiler Type
An affordable machine with high-quality and safe materials, including a stainless steel boiler and BPA-free plastic.
Milk Frothing
Makes delicious espresso and lattes, with a powerful steam wand for creamy microfoam.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning is manageable, especially if you stay on top of it after each use.

The CASABREWS Espresso Machine is a compact and stylish option for those looking to make espresso-based drinks at home or in the office. With a professional 20 bar pressure system and a powerful 1350W boiler, it promises high-quality extraction for rich and aromatic coffee. The built-in pressure gauge allows users to fine-tune their brewing process to match personal taste preferences, which is a great feature for aspiring home baristas.

The stainless steel design adds durability and a modern touch to any kitchen. Additionally, the removable 34oz water tank is convenient for refilling and cleaning, making the machine user-friendly. The included milk frother is powerful enough to create creamy microfoam, ideal for lattes and cappuccinos. However, a notable downside is that the machine requires cooling down after frothing milk, which can be a bit inconvenient if you're in a rush.

Also, the machine's semi-automatic nature means it might require a bit of practice to master. While it lacks an integrated grinder, which some might find essential, it's still a versatile machine for its price range. This espresso machine is best suited for those who enjoy making a variety of espresso drinks and don't mind a bit of manual effort in their brewing process.

Rating
7.9
Boiler Type
Milk Frothing
Ease of Cleaning

Most important from
6444 reviews

Boiler Type
An affordable machine with high-quality and safe materials, including a stainless steel boiler and BPA-free plastic.
Milk Frothing
Makes delicious espresso and lattes, with a powerful steam wand for creamy microfoam.
Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning is manageable, especially if you stay on top of it after each use.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Espresso Machines

Choosing the right espresso machine can be a delightful yet daunting task, especially if you're looking for a budget-friendly option. The key is to understand the essential features and how they align with your coffee preferences and lifestyle. By focusing on the most important specifications, you can find an espresso machine that delivers great coffee without breaking the bank.
Type of MachineEspresso machines come in various types, including manual, semi-automatic, automatic, and capsule machines. Manual machines require the most skill and control, while semi-automatic and automatic machines offer more convenience with varying levels of automation. Capsule machines are the easiest to use but may limit your coffee options. Choose a type based on your comfort level with making espresso and how much control you want over the brewing process.
PressurePressure is measured in bars and is crucial for extracting the perfect espresso. Most machines operate at 9 bars, which is considered the ideal pressure for a good espresso. Some budget machines may offer lower pressure, which can affect the quality of the espresso. If you are a coffee enthusiast, aim for a machine that can consistently deliver around 9 bars of pressure.
Boiler TypeThe boiler heats the water for brewing and steaming milk. Single boilers are common in budget machines and are suitable for making espresso but may require waiting between brewing and steaming. Thermoblock and thermocoil systems heat water quickly and are more efficient. If you plan to make multiple drinks in a row or enjoy milk-based beverages, consider a machine with a thermoblock or thermocoil system.
GrinderSome espresso machines come with built-in grinders, which can be convenient and save space. The quality of the grinder can significantly impact the taste of your espresso. Burr grinders are preferred over blade grinders for their consistency. If you already have a good grinder or prefer to buy pre-ground coffee, you can opt for a machine without a built-in grinder.
Milk FrothingIf you enjoy lattes, cappuccinos, or other milk-based drinks, a good milk frothing system is essential. Budget machines may come with a basic steam wand, which requires some skill to use. More advanced machines may have automatic frothing systems that make it easier to achieve the perfect milk texture. Consider your preference for milk-based drinks and your willingness to learn frothing techniques when choosing a machine.
Water Tank CapacityThe size of the water tank determines how often you need to refill it. Smaller tanks are fine for occasional use but can be inconvenient if you make multiple drinks daily. Larger tanks are more convenient for frequent use but can make the machine bulkier. Think about your daily coffee consumption and choose a tank size that fits your needs without adding unnecessary hassle.
Ease of CleaningRegular cleaning is essential for maintaining the quality and longevity of your espresso machine. Some machines have removable parts that are dishwasher safe, while others require manual cleaning. Look for machines with easy-to-clean components and consider how much time you are willing to spend on maintenance. A machine that is easy to clean will save you time and ensure consistently good coffee.

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