10 Best Manual Espresso Machine 2026 in the United States

The Diletta Bello+ is a well-crafted manual espresso machine designed for coffee enthusiasts who want hands-on control over their brewing. It features a heat exchanger boiler system, allowing you to brew espresso and steam milk simultaneously, which is great for making lattes and cappuccinos without waiting. The stainless steel build promises durability and long-term reliability, with a classic, compact design that fits well in most kitchens. Temperature management is enhanced by a front-mounted PID controller, so you can easily adjust and monitor boiler temperature for consistent shots. The programmable preinfusion and shot timer add helpful precision for those developing their barista skills.

Since it’s a fully manual machine, it requires some learning and effort to master, which might not suit beginners looking for convenience. The machine weighs about 52 pounds, so it’s sturdy but less portable. Its large drip tray helps keep the area clean during use, and the manual steam and brew controls encourage skill development rather than automation.

This makes it a solid choice for hobbyists who enjoy crafting espresso with precision and don’t mind spending time on maintenance and technique. For those seeking a simpler or more automated experience, this machine may feel somewhat demanding.

The Gevi Commercial Espresso and Coffee Maker is a semi-automatic espresso machine designed for home or small office use. While it is not a traditional manual lever machine, it offers good pressure control with its powerful 20-bar pump and features like pre-infusion and a built-in pressure gauge that help you extract rich, flavorful espresso shots. Crafted with a full stainless steel body, it feels durable and stylish, fitting nicely on most kitchen countertops thanks to its compact size (12.3" deep x 5.5" wide x 12" high). The boiler type isn’t explicitly stated, but the inclusion of an NTC temperature control suggests reliable heat management.

Its steam wand produces smooth microfoam quickly, making it easy to create cappuccinos and lattes, and the removable frother nozzle simplifies cleaning. Controls are straightforward with button operation and adjustable shot volume, making this machine approachable even for beginners without sacrificing quality. Additional perks include a hot water function useful for Americanos or tea and a cup warmer. As a semi-automatic model, it requires some user involvement but does not offer the full manual control of a traditional lever machine.

The water tank is removable for easier refilling, but the machine weighs about 8.6 pounds, which might be less portable than some smaller models. This espresso maker is well suited for those wanting a relatively hands-on, durable, and compact machine that delivers café-style drinks with moderate effort, although it may not satisfy purists seeking full manual lever operation.

The Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS is a solid choice for those venturing into the world of manual espresso machines, particularly if you're aiming to recreate third-wave specialty coffee at home. It comes equipped with a 54mm portafilter that holds 19 grams of coffee, ensuring full flavor extraction, which is a great asset for coffee enthusiasts. The standout feature here is the automatic steam wand, which makes milk texturing effortless and allows you to create barista-quality microfoam—ideal for those interested in crafting latte art.

A major advantage of this machine is its fast heat-up time. Thanks to the innovative thermojet heating system, it reaches the optimal extraction temperature in just 3 seconds, significantly reducing your wait time for that morning brew. Additionally, the low-pressure pre-infusion feature gradually increases pressure to extract flavors evenly, delivering a balanced cup of espresso.

The build and design are both attractive and practical. Made with brushed stainless steel, it not only looks sleek but is also durable. Its compact size (13.7"D x 6.3"W x 12"H) makes it a good fit for smaller kitchen spaces or office environments.

While the digital temperature control (PID) aids in maintaining consistent quality, its semi-automatic operation might not be for everyone—especially if you're new to espresso machines. It requires a bit of a learning curve to master. Additionally, though the machine is easy to maintain, the need for regular cleaning and descaling is necessary to keep it performing at its best.

This model is best suited for those who appreciate the art of making espresso and are willing to invest some time in learning the nuances of the machine. It balances ease of use with the ability to customize your espresso experience, making it a good fit for both home and office settings.