10 Best Inexpensive Espresso Machines 2026 in the United States

The Breville Barista Express is a popular semi-automatic espresso machine that combines a built-in grinder and espresso maker in one device, making it a great choice for those new to espresso or anyone wanting to brew fresh coffee quickly at home. It uses a powerful steam wand for manual milk frothing, allowing you to create creamy microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos, which adds a nice touch of barista-level quality. The machine offers good control over grind size and dose, so you can adjust the flavor to your liking.

It also features precise temperature control and low-pressure pre-infusion, helping extract balanced and rich espresso shots. With a 67 oz water tank and a half-pound bean hopper, it’s convenient for daily use without frequent refilling. The size is reasonably compact, but it does weigh over 20 pounds, so it’s better suited for a dedicated spot on the kitchen counter.

Cleaning is manageable with included tools and a cleaning disc, but because it’s a semi-automatic machine, some parts require regular maintenance to keep it in good shape. While it’s not the cheapest on the market, the combination of features, build quality, and consistent results make it a strong choice for anyone wanting an inexpensive machine that still offers quality espresso and milk frothing capabilities.

The CASABREWS Espresso Machine is an affordable option for those who want to make espresso-based drinks at home without breaking the bank. This machine boasts a professional 20 bar pressure system which is impressive for its price range, ensuring a rich and aromatic coffee extraction. The semi-automatic operation and the built-in pressure gauge allow users to tailor their brew to their taste preferences, making it suitable for both novice and experienced coffee enthusiasts. The compact and stylish stainless steel design makes it a good fit for any kitchen size or office space.

It comes with a 34oz removable water tank, which permits easy refilling and supports multiple servings without frequent trips to the sink. One notable feature is the powerful steam wand for milk frothing, which helps in creating creamy foam for lattes and cappuccinos, enhancing the coffee experience. However, users should be cautious when switching from frothing to brewing, as the machine needs to cool down to avoid overheating and potential shutdowns. This might be a slight inconvenience for those who enjoy making multiple cups in quick succession.

The included instructional videos are helpful, especially for beginners learning to use the machine. On the downside, the machine does not come with a built-in grinder, which means users need to pre-grind their coffee beans or invest in a separate grinder. Additionally, the compact size might limit its capacity, making it more suitable for small households rather than larger families or heavy coffee drinkers. Despite these minor drawbacks, the CASABREWS Espresso Machine offers great value for its price, especially with its high-pressure pump and versatile features, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious coffee lovers.

The Breville Bambino Espresso Machine, model BES450BSS, stands out for its fast heat-up time, automatic milk frothing, and compact design. Its thermojet heating system heats up in just 3 seconds, allowing you to make espresso quickly, which is impressive for an inexpensive machine. The automatic steam wand is a significant feature, as it lets you adjust the milk temperature and texture, making it easier to create barista-quality microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos without the need for manual skills. This can be particularly appealing for users who enjoy milk-based coffee drinks but lack frothing experience.

The machine also includes a 54mm portafilter and low-pressure pre-infusion, which helps ensure that the coffee grounds are evenly saturated for a balanced flavor extraction. The digital temperature control (PID) further ensures consistent results by maintaining the optimal temperature for espresso extraction. However, the Breville Bambino does have some limitations. It lacks a built-in grinder, so you'll need to pre-grind your coffee or purchase a separate grinder. Additionally, while the machine is relatively easy to use and clean, the manual nature of the settings might require a bit of a learning curve for complete beginners. Its compact size (13.7