10 Best Steam Espresso Machines 2025 in the United States

The De'Longhi Magnifica Plus is a fully automatic espresso machine that shines with its ease of use and customization. It offers 18 one-touch drink recipes, including espresso, cappuccino, and iced coffee, with options to adjust size and coffee strength, making it great for households with multiple users thanks to 4 user profiles. Its built-in conical burr grinder with 13 grind settings ensures fresh, evenly ground coffee, which helps bring out rich flavors. The machine’s LatteCrema system automatically steams and froths milk with three texture options, producing creamy milk foam without manual effort.

The 3.5-inch touchscreen display is intuitive, guiding users through drink customization smoothly. In terms of cleaning, many parts are removable and dishwasher-safe, reducing maintenance hassle. The machine’s size is moderate (about 17.5" deep and 9.5" wide), which fits well on most kitchen counters but might be bulky for very small spaces. Its build quality is solid, reflecting De'Longhi’s reputation for durability.

Although the machine offers many features and a touchscreen interface that might feel overwhelming to those looking for a simple device, it provides a versatile, mostly hands-off espresso experience with strong customization and easy cleaning. It is less ideal if you prefer manual control or need a compact, minimalist machine. The price could be higher compared to more basic models.

The De'Longhi La Specialista Opera is a strong choice for those who want a versatile espresso machine that delivers café-quality drinks at home without complicated manual steps. It features a powerful 19-bar Italian pump which ensures the right pressure throughout the brewing process, crucial for rich espresso extraction. The built-in burr grinder offers 15 settings, allowing you to adjust grind size precisely for single or double shots, which helps in achieving consistent flavor. Its smart tamping system simplifies the traditionally tricky step of compacting coffee grounds, making it easier to get an even extraction without mess.

Temperature control is another highlight, with three infusion temperature settings to tailor the water heat to different coffee beans, contributing to better taste balance. The commercial-style steam wand heats quickly and produces smooth micro-foam, ideal for lattes and cappuccinos, supporting a more professional milk frothing experience. The machine’s size is moderately compact for what it offers, though it does weigh over 28 pounds, so it’s more suited to a dedicated kitchen spot rather than moving around frequently.

Cleaning is manageable, especially with included brushes and accessories, but the integrated grinder and smart tamping add a bit more maintenance compared to simpler machines. The build quality feels solid with stainless steel elements, promising durability for regular use. Though it’s not the cheapest option, its combination of cold brew capability, smart features, and strong performance suits espresso lovers seeking a semi-automatic machine that balances convenience with control. Beginners should be prepared for a learning curve with the multiple features and settings.

The Breville Barista Express BES870BSXL is a solid choice for anyone looking to make café-quality espresso at home. Its built-in conical burr grinder allows you to grind fresh coffee beans directly into the portafilter, which helps capture great flavor. The machine uses low-pressure pre-infusion to gradually build pressure, helping to extract balanced and flavorful espresso shots. Temperature control is precise thanks to its digital PID system, ensuring the water is just right for espresso extraction every time.

The steam wand is powerful and versatile, perfect for frothing milk to create microfoam, so you can make lattes and cappuccinos with good texture and even try latte art. The machine holds up well in build quality with stainless steel parts, though it weighs over 22 pounds, so it’s not the easiest to move around or store in tight spaces. The water tank and bean hopper have decent capacity for home use—about 67 ounces and half a pound respectively.

Cleaning requires some regular attention because of the integrated grinder and steam wand, but the included tools help manage this. The Barista Express also offers customization like grind size and shot volume, which is great if you like to experiment with your coffee. While it’s a semi-automatic machine and needs a bit of practice, it’s very user-friendly for beginners wanting to step up from basic espresso makers. This durable, all-in-one espresso machine balances convenience with quality, especially suited for coffee lovers who want to grind fresh beans and brew espresso without buying separate devices. Its size and cleaning needs might not suit everyone, but its performance and features make it a top pick in its category.