Best Coffee Espresso Machines
Turn on a knob, press an icon, and a delicious beverage is in your hands. The machine won't win any beauty contests but it makes a delicious cup of espresso. Our testers found that the taste was more like coffee than other machines.
It also takes more effort than the other models we've looked at. However, it's well worth the effort for the hands-off Java fan.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus will be the best Nespresso machine for you if an avid coffee drinker who is looking for efficiency and consistency. The Vertuo Plus has a minimalist design that will blend in with your kitchen decor and is simple to use. Inject a capsule and press the button to brew your beverage. The machine adjusts the brewing parameters automatically to maximize extraction depending on the barcode in the capsule. This is a big selling point for the Nespresso Vertuo line, since you won't have to worry about setting different temperatures or pressure for every type of drink. However, it does limit your options to Nespresso pods and does not include an inbuilt milk frother.
The Vertuo Plus uses Nespresso's Centrifusion technology to create a thick smooth, creamy crema. The machine rotates at up 7000 rpm to get the full spectrum of aromas and flavors in each capsule. It also heats and distributes water at the same time, allowing you to make American drip espresso or coffee.
The Vertuo plus is less expensive than Creatista Pro. This makes it a great upgrade option for those looking to improve their Nespresso experience. The Vertuo Plus comes with smaller water tanks, which are 40 ounces, compared to premium model's 60 ounces. If you intend to prepare large drinks or share with guests and guests, then the premium model could be a better choice.
2. Barista Express Impress
Breville's Barista Express Impress is an appealing machine with a stunning design and useful features. Its dosing system is intelligent and assisted tamping helps beginners automate elements of the process making it much easier for anyone to make a good espresso. It also allows small adjustments to the water temperature that baristas with more experience will appreciate, as even a couple of degrees can alter the taste of the coffee.
The machine features a high-end conical burr grinder which provides 25 grind settings to match any coffee. It also comes with a stainless steel milk jug, as well as one- and two-cup single-and double-wall filter baskets, which means you can choose how many shots you'll be making at a time. The frother arm can be used to make micro-foams in lattes or cappuccinos.
The interface of the espresso machine is simple to navigate and clearly explains each step. We also appreciated that it doesn't have a lot of plastic parts and is very sturdy. It's not cheap but it's a high-quality machine that has many features that will last for many years. It also comes with a great warranty that covers mechanical issues for a full year from the date of purchase. This is pretty impressive for a machine at this kind of price. It's definitely worth the money in case you're looking to test your hand at making espresso regularly.
3. Gaggia Classic
Gaggia Classic was launched in 1991. It quickly gained a cult following due to its simplicity and ability to make a delicious cup of espresso. Nearly three decades later, it has returned better than ever before with the brand new Classic Pro. Even though the Classic Pro isn't as advanced as the other entry-level machines, it's still capable of serving espresso of a cafe quality using the high-end portafilter and group. However as it's a single boiler, you cannot brew and steam simultaneously and you'll have to wait for a little time between pulling a shot.
With a sleek and industrial design that is stylish and feels solid in your hands the Classic Pro features simple switches for On/Off, brewing/steam and specific indicator lights, making it simple to get acquainted with. The frames and switches are more durable than the Classic making this machine have a truly premium feel.
The Classic Pro comes with few accessories, but the 58-millimeter portafilter is a nice feature. Also the tamper in plastic is a nice touch. A 3-way solenoid is a nice addition. It prevents water pressure fluctuations and helps eliminate loose espresso pucks, something that cheaper machines can't do. Gaggia has also included an elegant steam wand that can do a fantastic job of creating a frothy milk drink to create the art of latte.
4. De'Longhi COM532M
The De'Longhi espresso maker is an excellent choice for those looking to try barista quality coffee at home. It is a distinctive design that makes it easy to use, and also comes with many features. It has a stainless-steel boiler, brewhead and portafilter, aswell with a water tank that can be removed. The machine is compact and can be easily placed on the counters of most.
This espresso maker comes with the 15-bar pressure system that provides consistent results every time. It is also able to heat up within less than 40 seconds, which will save your time and energy. It is easy to clean and looks great on any kitchen counter. The De'Longhi is the ideal option for coffee lovers who want to make their own coffee at home.
It's a complete espresso and coffee maker that can make two cups at one time. Dual heating means that you can make espresso and drip coffee simultaneously. This is a great feature for parties as it allows you to serve your guests with their favorite drinks simultaneously.
The espresso machine is equipped with a milk frother, which can be used to make delicious and creamy cappuccinos as well as latte. The machine is easy to use using its easy touchscreen and buttons. It's quiet and doesn't make lots of noise when it's in use.