10 Best Stainless Steel Espresso Makers 2025 in the United States

The Breville BES870XL Espresso Machine stands out as a strong contender in the stainless-steel espresso maker category, particularly for those who want a hands-on experience to craft café-quality coffee at home. One of its significant strengths is the integrated conical burr grinder, which allows you to grind fresh beans on demand, ensuring maximum flavor. The machine also features a low-pressure pre-infusion, which enhances the extraction process for a well-balanced espresso shot. Furthermore, the digital temperature control provides precise water temperature, which is crucial for optimal espresso brewing. For milk lovers, the steam wand offers manual microfoam texturing, ideal for creating lattes and cappuccinos with a professional touch. The design is sleek and modern, adding a stylish element to your kitchen.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. While the machine is packed with features, its manual operation may be intimidating for beginners who might prefer a more straightforward, automated process. Additionally, it can be a bit bulky, occupying a decent amount of counter space, which might be a concern in smaller kitchens. The cleaning can also require some effort, as multiple components need regular maintenance to keep it running optimally.

In terms of capacity, the BES870XL has a 67 oz water tank and a ½ lb bean hopper, making it suitable for daily use but perhaps less ideal for larger gatherings without frequent refills. For those who appreciate the art of espresso making and want quality performance, the Breville BES870XL offers a comprehensive package. It's particularly well-suited for home baristas looking to experiment with different beans and techniques.

The CASABREWS Espresso Machine offers an appealing option for home baristas looking to make their favorite espresso-based drinks at home. With a 20 bar professional pressure system and 1350W powerful boiler, it promises high-quality extraction and rich aroma, which is excellent for an authentic espresso experience. The built-in pressure gauge allows for precise adjustments to suit personal taste preferences.

Its stainless steel build ensures durability and its pastel green design adds a stylish touch to any kitchen. The compact size makes it suitable for small spaces, and the 34 oz removable water tank is practical for multiple servings without frequent refilling. The included milk frother steam wand is powerful and great for creating creamy microfoam and milk foam art, enhancing the coffee experience.

Some challenges include the need to cool down the machine after frothing milk to prevent overheating, which could be inconvenient for those in a hurry. Additionally, the manual operation might not appeal to users seeking a fully automated experience. Despite these minor drawbacks, it is well-received by customers who appreciate its performance and design.

The Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine (BES880BTR) is an impressive choice for coffee enthusiasts wanting to recreate café-quality espresso at home. One of its primary strengths is the integrated conical burr grinder, which allows for precise dose control and maximizes flavor extraction. The machine's low-pressure pre-infusion and digital temperature control ensure optimal espresso extraction, making it suitable for those who appreciate a balanced cup of coffee. The ThermoJet heating system heats up in just three seconds, a significant advantage for users who want a quick coffee fix.

In terms of usability, the touch screen interface simplifies the brewing process, allowing users to create and save up to eight personalized coffee settings. The automatic steam wand is another highlight, enabling users to achieve barista-grade microfoam, perfect for lattes and cappuccinos. It also includes a variety of accessories, enhancing the overall value of the product.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the machine is packed with advanced features, its price point might be steep for casual coffee drinkers. The 21.8-pound weight can make it cumbersome for some users to move around, and the cleaning process, while manageable, may require regular maintenance due to the complexity of the machine. Design-wise, the stainless-steel exterior is stylish but can be prone to fingerprints, which may require frequent wiping down. The capacity of the bean hopper (1/2 lb) and water tank (67 oz) is adequate for personal use, but larger households might find themselves refilling more often.

The Breville Barista Touch is an excellent espresso machine for those who are serious about their coffee and willing to invest in a quality product. It strikes a good balance between advanced features and user-friendliness, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned baristas. However, potential buyers should weigh the cost and maintenance requirements before making a decision.