10 Best Inexpensive Espresso Machines 2025 in the United States

The Breville BES870XL Espresso Machine stands out in the inexpensive espresso machine category, particularly for those looking to dive into the world of specialty coffee at home. One of its main strengths is the integrated conical burr grinder, which allows users to grind fresh beans right into the portafilter, ensuring a rich flavor profile. Coupled with optimal water pressure that enhances extraction and a precise temperature control system, it provides a well-balanced espresso shot every time. The machine also features a powerful steam wand for manual microfoam milk texturing, making it suitable for creating lattes and cappuccinos with a professional touch.

In terms of size and design, the brushed stainless steel finish adds a sleek, modern look to any kitchen. However, its larger dimensions may require more counter space, which could be a consideration for those with limited kitchen area. While the machine is praised for its ease of use and includes a range of accessories like a stainless steel milk jug and a cleaning kit, it does demand some effort in cleaning and maintenance, especially with the grinder and steam wand.

Many users enjoy its capabilities, though some have noted that it might be overwhelming for beginners due to the manual controls and settings. Additionally, the price point, while considered inexpensive for a semi-automatic machine, might still be on the higher side for casual coffee drinkers.

The Breville BES870XL is an excellent choice for those who are serious about their espresso and want the flexibility of grinding their own beans. It excels in making quality drinks and offers features that appeal to home baristas, but it may not be suitable for those seeking a simple, low-maintenance option.

The Breville Barista Touch BES880BSS Espresso Machine is a solid choice for those seeking to enjoy café-style espresso at home without breaking the bank. A standout feature is its integrated burr grinder with 30 precision grind settings, allowing users to customize their coffee grounds to match their taste preferences. The machine operates with a fully automatic system, which simplifies the espresso-making process, making it accessible even for beginners. The touchscreen interface is intuitive and user-friendly, guiding you through the steps to brew your perfect cup.

In terms of milk frothing, it includes a steam wand for creating creamy lattes and cappuccinos, though this may require a bit of practice to achieve the desired texture. The machine is designed with a modern look in brushed stainless steel, adding a stylish touch to your kitchen.

On the downside, the size of the Breville Barista Touch can be a consideration; at approximately 21.8 pounds and with dimensions of 12.7”D x 15.5”W x 16”H, it takes up a fair amount of counter space. Additionally, while the machine is easy to clean, the integrated grinder can require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Some users might find that it takes a bit of time to master the various features and settings, especially if they are new to making espresso.

The Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Maker is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable, compact espresso machine that still offers strong performance. It uses a 20-bar pump which is higher than many budget machines, helping you extract rich, flavorful espresso shots. The built-in pressure gauge and pre-infusion feature are nice touches usually found in pricier models, allowing better control over brewing. It lacks a built-in grinder, so you'll need to use pre-ground coffee or a separate grinder.

The stainless steel body gives it a durable and attractive look, and its small footprint fits well on most kitchen counters. The powerful steam wand with a removable frothing nozzle lets you create silky milk foam for cappuccinos and lattes, and cleaning the frother is made easier thanks to this design. The machine includes a removable water tank and a cup warmer, adding to user convenience. Controls are simple buttons with semi-automatic operation, so you won’t need to be a barista to get good results.

The absence of an integrated grinder means extra equipment and effort if you want freshly ground coffee. Also, it’s not fully automatic, so some learning and manual operation are required. Priced competitively, the Gevi delivers a good balance of quality espresso, milk frothing, and easy maintenance, making it especially suitable for home users or casual coffee lovers who want better coffee than basic machines without a high price or complex setup.