10 Best Espresso Machines

Buying guide

Are you unsure of which espresso machine you should buy? In this buying guide, we will look at the most important things to consider before choosing an espresso machine.

Consider what type of espresso machine you want.

In the following table, we go through the advantages and disadvantages of the different types of espresso machines:

Fully automatic espresso machine

Advantages

Quick coffee brewing

Many coffee varieties

Very convenient

Available with advanced features

Easier to maintain and clean

Disadvantages

More expensive

Less control over the brewing process

Price

£140-2849 (Avg.: £715)

Semi-automatic espresso machine

Advantages

Available both with- and without the grinder

Typically, a more attractive design

More control for fine-tuning

Possibility of better coffee quality

Cheaper

Disadvantages

Not suitable for large gatherings

Takes longer to make coffee

They get dirtier

Requires getting used to

More manual work

Price

£51-3006 (Avg.: £507)

Decide how much you are willing to spend on an espresso machine. Espresso machines are available at a wide range of prices.

In general, semi-automatic espresso machines are the cheapest type. However, both budget-friendly options are available, the semi-automatic espresso machines and the fully automatic espresso machines.

These are the ten cheapest espresso machines:

The price across the espresso machines ranges from £51 for the cheapest model to £3006 for the most expensive one.

The following chart shows how the price is distributed for semi-automatic espresso machines compared with fully automatic espresso machines:

You can read more about the price here:

• Cheap espresso machines
• Cheap fully automatic espresso machines

Measure the available space in your kitchen to ensure the espresso machine fits perfectly.

More compact semi-automatic espresso machines are available (but they are also typically built without a grinder), and you can get larger models requiring more space.

Semi-automatic espresso machines generally look more stylish than fully automatic espresso machines. They are typically built in stainless steel and are available in different colors, while fully automatic espresso machines have a more plastic-like appearance.

Should you choose an espresso machine with a built-in grinder or a model without?

Espresso machines without a built-in grinder take up much less space, but you cannot brew freshly ground coffee without one.

Semi-automatic espresso machines are available with- and without a grinder, while all fully automatic espresso machines are built with a grinder.

Should you pick an espresso machine with a built-in milk frother? If you enjoy milk-based drinks such as lattes, cappuccinos, or macchiatos, you should choose an espresso machine with a milk frother.

You can get models that automatically foam the milk among the fully automatic espresso machines. At the same time, you have to do it yourself with an integrated steam wand in other models.

Which functions do you prefer for your espresso machine? A fully automatic espresso machine is the best choice if you prefer advanced features.

These are the most popular functions:

• Smart function: With a smart function, you can adjust brewing settings, monitor brewing progress, receive notifications, and access additional features from your smartphone.
• Self-cleaning and descaling Programs: Automates the cleaning and descaling process, prolonging the lifespan of the machine and maintaining optimal performance. Typically found in fully automatic espresso machines.
• Double bean containers: This allows espresso machines to hold and use two different types of coffee beans simultaneously. This feature benefits users who enjoy experimenting with different coffee blends, as it allows switching between beans without emptying and refilling the hopper. You can find the best coffee machines with double-bean containers here.
• Coffee pot function: This function allows the espresso machine to brew larger quantities of coffee into a carafe, which is useful when you have to brew coffee for large gatherings. This function is found in fully automatic espresso machines.