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The best espresso machines to make your home your new favorite coffee shop
The BestReviews Testing Lab rigorously tested a wide range of espresso machines over several weeks, evaluating their performance across different price points to find the best options for every type of coffee lover.
Whether you’re a beginner who is looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy high-quality espresso at home, or an experienced barista seeking features for pros, these espresso makers have something to offer everyone. With so many options on the market, finding the right espresso machine can be daunting, so we’re here to help you choose, based on which features are important to you.
In this article: Nespresso Virtuo Pop+, Ninja Luxe Café Premier and Breville Oracle Jet
Best single-use espresso maker: Nespresso Vertuo Pop+
Best for: Espresso newbies, alarm snoozers
Why we like it: The Nespresso Vertuo Pop+ combines easy functionality with a fun design that’ll look great on any countertop. This model works with all of Nespresso’s proprietary pods and is able to produce espresso in just seconds. If you’re not concerned with super-high-quality espresso, or you’re always on the go and want something quick and easy, this is a perfect option.
Testing takeaways:
- Compact and aesthetically pleasing: The Vertuo Pop+ is easy to store and fun to look at.
- Easy to use: Using this machine is as simple as inserting a capsule and pressing the start button.
- Variety of pods: Tons of coffee and espresso pod options are fun, especially as the holidays approach.
- Consistent results: Delivers smooth espresso with an impressive crema on top every time.
Price: $129.99
Best Midrange espresso maker: Ninja Luxe Café Premier
Best for: High-quality espresso in a beginner-friendly machine, households with varying preferences
Why we like it: The Ninja Luxe Café Premier is a do-it-all machine. It can make espresso, cold brew, drip coffee and other cold coffee drinks. It’s great for someone who wants to up their game and make their espresso by hand each morning, or for that household with several different flavor preferences. The versatility of the Ninja can’t be understated and especially at a pricepoint that’s more approachable than most espresso makers.
Testing takeaways:
- Dual brewing : Brews espresso and drip coffee and helps you create other espresso-forward drinks.
- Grind recommendations: The grinder will give you recommended sizes based on the drink you’re trying to make, an impressive feature at this price.
- Milk frother: The built-in milk frother makes this great for producing milk-based drinks like lattes.
- Built-in storage: There’s a storage spot in the back of the machine that hides a lot of the accessories, making the most of the counter space this machine occupies.
Price: $499.95
Best high-end espresso maker: Breville Oracle Jet
Best for: Coffee enthusiasts and aspiring home baristas
Why we like it: This espresso machine is a beast. In a good way, of course. From the second you turn the machine on, you’re walked through an espresso experience, if you will. The Oracle Jet walks you through how to set up your machine, dial it in and then make your first espresso drink. From there, it gives you feedback on your first shot and what grind size to move to in order to improve the shot quality. Sometimes, the displays on products are sort of a gimmick, but not with this machine. The display is bright, responsive and allows you to click on what drink you’re trying to make, providing detailed instructions on how to create it. You can even press the grinder icon on the screen and make the grinder run … pretty darn cool!
Testing takeaways:
- Professional quality: Of the dozen espresso machines we’ve tested, this one is the most impressive and generates coffee that rivals or beats your local cafe.
- Seamless espresso: Everything feels connected, in the best way. You grind your beans for a certain drink, and then lock the portafilter in to brew that same drink. Having these capabilities all on the same page makes for an elevated experience.
- Automatic and manual modes: The Oracle Jet allows you to follow the instructions and make it simple, or it allows you to customize every aspect of your espresso brew, giving flexibility to those who own it.
- Onscreen feedback: One of the most impressive aspects was the machine understanding that the shot pulled too quickly, or too slowly, and then offering tips on the screen.
Price: $1,999.99
Other great options
De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine
Best for: Cold brew and espresso enthusiasts
If you’re looking for a unique espresso machine that features a different approach to brewing, this is it. The De’Longhi Stilosa is a manual espresso machine that’s affordable and doesn’t feature as much of a learning curve or investment as the higher-end machines. This machine allows you to make great espresso, and features a milk frother, all for under $100!
Price: $83.00
Breville the Bambino Plus Espresso Machine
Best for: Small kitchens and minimalists
The Bambino Plus is one of the best machines on the market, especially for the price. This machine allows you to make incredible espresso and was one of the Testing Lab’s favorite products of 2023. If you’re able to tinker and dial in your espresso, it will keep you from going to any coffee shop anytime soon, it’s that good … seriously! It features single- or double-shot brewing capabilities and a steam wand that produces impressively frothy milk for your lattes.
Price: $499.99
De’Longhi EC9255M La Specialista Arte Evo
Best for: Espresso and cold brew lovers, De’Longhi fans
De’Longhi, one of the most trusted names in the espresso space, created a machine that makes both traditional espresso and cold brew coffee. The dual capability is important for some, and you’re ensuring that you’re purchasing one of the top brands on the market. Also, the integrated sensing grinder and temperature control system both ensure optimal espresso brewing.
Price: $669.99
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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