10 Best Semi Automatic Espresso Machines 2025 in the United States

The Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine is a robust and stylish option for home use, designed to make third wave specialty coffee. It features a ThermoJet heating system that heats up in just 3 seconds, ensuring your coffee is made quickly. The machine comes with a digital temperature control (PID) for precise espresso extraction, and an integrated precision conical burr grinder that delivers the right amount of coffee for optimal flavor.

The 54mm portafilter is of high-quality stainless steel and fits perfectly with the machine’s overall build, which is sturdy and made of brushed stainless steel. The automatic microfoam milk texturing feature allows you to create barista-quality microfoam for latte art, making this machine ideal for cappuccino and latte lovers. The touch screen interface simplifies the process, letting you adjust coffee strength, milk texture, and temperature with ease. You can even save up to 8 personalized coffee settings for a consistent brew every time.

However, the machine is relatively heavy at 21.8 pounds, which might make it less portable. Additionally, while the many features add convenience, they may also complicate the cleaning process, requiring regular maintenance. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Breville Barista Touch offers exceptional performance and customization, making it a great choice for coffee enthusiasts looking for a versatile and high-quality espresso machine for home use.

The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is a robust semi-automatic machine that is suitable for home baristas looking to elevate their coffee-making experience. It features an integrated conical burr grinder which allows you to grind beans directly into the portafilter, ensuring fresh coffee grounds every time. The machine's low pressure pre-infusion and digital temperature control (PID) are designed to extract balanced and flavorful espresso shots consistently.

This machine also includes a powerful steam wand capable of creating microfoam milk, ideal for making lattes and cappuccinos and even practicing latte art. The 54mm portafilter is standard for semi-automatic machines, offering versatility in coffee preparation. Build quality is high with a brushed stainless steel finish, adding durability and a sleek appearance to your kitchen. The machine is relatively easy to clean, with a removable drip tray and an included cleaning kit.

However, at 22.1 pounds, it is on the heavier side, and its dimensions might require ample counter space (13.8”D x 12.5”W x 15.9”H). The machine includes a one-year limited warranty and is an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts willing to invest in a comprehensive and durable espresso maker, though the learning curve might be steep for absolute beginners.

The Breville Oracle Jet is designed for coffee lovers who want a semi-automatic espresso experience with professional-level features and convenience. It uses a fast and energy-efficient ThermoJet heating system that lets you get started quickly with precise temperature control, adjustable in small increments to suit your taste. The built-in Baratza burr grinder automatically grinds, doses, and tamps the coffee, making it easier to get a consistent 22g dose through its large 58mm stainless steel portafilter. This helps deliver rich, full-bodied espresso.

The steam wand creates silky microfoam with adjustable settings for different milk types, including dairy and alternatives, ideal for latte art enthusiasts. A standout feature is its ability to make cold brew-style coffee with smoother, less acidic flavors. The machine also offers helpful barista guidance and an auto queue system that streamlines the brewing and steaming process. In terms of build, it has a sturdy stainless steel finish that looks good and feels durable. Cleaning is simplified by an auto-clean function, which is a plus given the machine's complexity.

On the downside, the machine is quite large and heavy, which might not suit smaller kitchens. Also, its high-end features come with a price tag that may be steep for casual users. It ranks well among semi-automatic machines but may be more than what beginners need. This makes the Oracle Jet an excellent choice for people who want café-quality espresso at home with advanced control and automation, though it requires some investment in space and money.