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6 Best Espresso Machines of 2024 [Tested and Reviewed]
Espresso machines have become a go-to for anyone looking to enjoy café-quality coffee from the comfort of their own home. With so many options, whether semi-automatic or fully automatic, from top brands like Breville, Solis of Switzerland, and Gaggia, you may have a hard time deciding which one will give you that perfect shot of espresso or a delicious latte.
We've compared 6 bestselling Espresso Machines available online and put them to the test to recommend the best one for you.
We tested each product for the following:
- Flavor of Espresso
- Strength of Milk Steamer
- Ease of Maintenance
- Compactness
- Length of Warm-Up Time
Which product ended up being the best of the best? We'll also tell you how to pick the best Espresso Machines on your own in our buying guide, so read on for more shopping tips.
For seven years, Daisuke has served specialty coffees as a barista and taught hand-drip latte art seminars. Currently, at mybest, he conducts the verification for all coffee-related products and equipment, including major manufacturers such as Kalita, Hario, and De'longhi, and specialty coffee brands such as Starbucks, UCC, Maruyama Coffee, and Blue Bottle Coffee. He creates content with the motto of "making ordinary coffee more delicious" by utilizing his experience as a barista. In addition, he also operates his own coffee roastery.
How We Tested the Products
- Flavor of Espresso1
We set the standard for a delicious espresso as one that would satisfy even strict coffee enthusiasts. As such, we had a panel of coffee lovers rate the quality of the espresso extracted from each machine. Here's how we conducted the tests.
- Strength of Milk Steamer2
For a machine with a powerful milk steamer, we were looking for a machine with a steam nozzle which can produce rich steamed milk in a short amount of time. Here's how we evaluated each product:
- Ease of Maintenance3
We defined an easy-to-maintain espresso machine as one with an automatic cleaning function and dishwasher-safe parts. Here's how we evaluated each product.
- Compactness4
We compared the different machines in order to find one that can fit into a small kitchen space. Here's how we evaluated each product.
- Length of Warm-Up Time5
When it came to warm-up time, we defined a fast espresso machine as one that is quick to start extracting once it's turned on. Here's how we evaluated each product.
All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest
- 06.28.2024
Update We updated our testing logic below, along with our article's content and ranking.- Flavor of Espresso
Table of Contents
- Why You Can Trust Us
- Why Consider an Espresso Machine Over Other Methods?
- Are Espresso Machines Beginner-Friendly?
- 8 Best Espresso Machines Ranking
- No. 1Breville | Barista Touch Espresso Machine｜BES880BSS1BUS1
- No. 2Solis of Switzerland | Solis｜Barista Perfetta Plus
- No. 3Breville | The Bambino Plus｜BES500BSS1BUS1
- No. 4Chefman | Barista Pro Plus Espresso Machine｜RJ54
- No. 5CASABREWS | CM5418 Compact 20-Bar Espresso Machine｜CM5418
- 1 more products
- How We Tested the Espresso Machines
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Why Consider an Espresso Machine Over Other Methods?
Make Café-Quality Espresso at Home!
The main draw of an espresso machine is undoubtedly its ability to produce rich and concentrated flavors by using finely ground coffee and about nine bars of pressure to extract a small but potent shot of espresso. While espresso is made up of less liquid compared to other methods of making coffee, you’ll get a full-bodied and intensely flavorful cup that packs a punch.
This high-pressure extraction isn't exclusive to in-store, commercial machines—it’s possible to achieve with models for home-use, too. Our testers who tried home-brewed espresso noted that it had the characteristic intensity and bitterness you're used to tasting at a café.
If you're someone who wants to enjoy quality espresso at home, an espresso machine is a must-have.
From Lattes to Cappuccinos, A Variety of Drinks at Your Fingertips
Another perk of owning an espresso machine is the versatility it offers; combine your espresso with steamed milk and you have a caffè latte or cappuccino. Mix it with water, and you've got yourself an Americano.
You can even pair it with tonic water for a refreshing espresso tonic. The citrusy notes of the tonic blend well with the bitterness of the espresso, making it a perfect summer drink.
With an espresso machine, you'll be able to craft delicious café-quality drinks at home, taking your daily coffee routine to the next level!
Cut Down on Coffee-Shop Costs
While espresso machines have a higher upfront cost, they can actually save you money in the long run compared to regularly buying coffee at a café.
For instance, making an espresso or caffè latte at home costs around one dollar, while a cup of the same could set you back about five dollars at a coffee shop.
If you drink coffee every day, you could save up to 120 dollars a month! So, if you're looking to cut down on your daily coffee expenses, an espresso machine is a smart investment in the long-term.
Are Espresso Machines Beginner-Friendly?
You might be wondering if an espresso machine is easy to use, especially if you've never operated one before. Let's go through the basic steps needed to extract espresso.
Once You Know the Steps, It’s Easy!
Making espresso with an espresso machine involves three simple steps—that's it!
First, you start by filling the water tank and warming up the machine. Just pour water into the tank and flip the switch—it's that simple.
While the machine is heating up, you can prepare the coffee grounds. Measure the right amount of finely ground coffee and pack it into the filter basket. Use a tamper, a special tool for this purpose, to press the grounds down firmly.
Finally, it's extraction time. Attach the handle to the machine and start the extraction by pressing a button. The extraction time and volume can vary depending on the machine. Generally, 25 to 30 seconds is a good extraction time, and we also recommend that you extract about twice the amount of powder you use, as this will give you the right concentration.
And there you have it—the basics of using an espresso machine. Once you get the hang of these steps, you'll be brewing café-quality espresso in no time.
How to Choose the Right Espresso Machine
Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best Espresso Machines.
Go With Semi-Automatic for a Richer Flavor
When it comes to espresso machines, there are two main types: fully automatic and semi-automatic. Fully automatic machines do everything for you, from grinding the beans to extracting the espresso, all at the push of a button. Semi-automatic machines, on the other hand, require you to grind the beans and tamp them down yourself before extraction.
Our tests revealed significant differences in the thickness of the crema and overall flavor between the two types. Espresso made with a fully automatic machine tended to have a thinner crema and weaker flavor. In contrast, espresso from a semi-automatic machine boasted a thick, creamy layer of crema and a richer taste.
Crema—in case you didn't know—refers to that creamy layer of foam that forms when you extract espresso. A good crema indicates a successful extraction and contributes to a richer, more flavorful cup.
For those who crave a rich and flavorful espresso, semi-automatic espresso machines are the way to go. Next, we'll discuss why semi-automatic machines can deliver that perfect cup, and which products we recommend.
Get a Creamy Crema With Proper Tamping!
Using fresh coffee beans and ensuring a uniform grind consistency are major contributing factors to a delicious result.
Another essential point to producing a great crema—and, therefore, a great espresso—is tightly tamping down the coffee grounds. When the grounds are well-tamped, the water can't escape easily during extraction, resulting in a more concentrated shot.
With a semi-automatic machine, you're in control of the tamping, so you can enjoy a thick, creamy crema and a rich espresso.
Customize the Espresso to Suit Your Taste
Another perk of going semi-automatic is the freedom to adjust the amount of coffee and the volume of water used for extraction. Less coffee will result in a weaker shot, while more coffee will make it stronger. Similarly, a smaller volume of water will make the espresso more concentrated, and a larger volume will dilute it.
With a semi-automatic machine, you can adjust the amount of both coffee and water down to a single gram, allowing you to experiment and find your perfect cup.
On the flip side, fully automatic machines often limit your customization options. Some don't allow for fine-tuning the strength or volume, making it harder to get your espresso just the way you like it.
For a Delicious Caffè Latte, Choose a Semi-Automatic With a Steam Wand
If you're planning to make caffè lattes, you'll want to go for a semi-automatic machine that comes with a steam wand. The smoothness of your latte largely depends on how well you steam the milk.
With a steam wand, you'll be able to manually control the steaming process, allowing you to efficiently mix air bubbles with the milk. This results in a smoother texture and mouthfeel.
Fully automatic machines can steam milk automatically, but oftentimes they don't mix the air and milk as effectively, leading to a texture that's not as smooth as you may like.
Of course, mastering the art of steaming milk with a wand does take a bit of practice—you may want to start practicing with water. But once you get the hang of it you'll find it's pretty straightforward. A rich foam is essential for latte art, so if you're planning to get creative with your coffee, a machine with a steam wand is a must.
For a tastier latte, aim to heat your frothed milk to a temperature between roughly 140 and 149 degrees Fahrenheit. Any hotter and you'll start to get that "scalded" smell that can make your drink less enjoyable.
To get your milk to the right temperature, try holding the pitcher with your bare hand while steaming. When it gets too hot to touch, count to three and then stop the steam. Use this as a guideline for perfect steaming.
Maintenance Is a Breeze With a Detachable Water Tank and Auto-Cleaning
If you're going to be using your machine frequently, it's worth looking for features like a detachable water tank and an automatic cleaning function to help with ease of maintenance.
A detachable water tank makes it easier to dispose of any leftover water, reducing the hassle of cleaning; if the tank isn't detachable, you'll need to lift the entire machine to drain it.
In addition, machines with an automatic cleaning function can clean those hard-to-reach internal parts on its own, making for a more hygienic experience.
Some machines even have parts that are dishwasher-safe. If you want to minimize your cleaning efforts, check whether the machine is dishwasher-compatible.
Choose a Compact Machine for Small Kitchen Spaces
If you're working with limited kitchen space, the more compact the espresso machine, the better. Before buying, check whether the machine's dimensions will fit comfortably in your designated spot. Machines with a width of 8.5 inches or less are generally easy to accommodate in tight spaces.
Note that if the machine comes with a grinder, it's likely to take up more room. So, if you're looking to maximize your kitchen space, we highly recommend a compact machine.
Breville and Solis Are Top Picks for Semi-Automatics
Among the semi-automatic machines we tested, Breville's Bambino Plus and SOLIS's Barista Perfetta Plus stood out. They both produced espresso with a rich crema layer and were praised for their smooth, full-bodied flavor.
Both machines also excelled in steaming milk, producing the fine foam essential for a delicious latte. They scored well in ease of maintenance and compactness, making them great for everyday use and small kitchens.
There's not much to separate the two, so your final choice might come down to which design fits best in your kitchen.
For Latte Art Enthusiasts, Choose a Machine With a Strong Milk Steamer
If you're into latte art, you'll want a machine with a powerful milk steamer that can heat the milk to over 140 degrees Fahrenheit in 45 seconds.
A powerful steam allows for thorough mixing of air bubbles and milk inside the milk pitcher. This results in a finely textured microfoam that not only tastes great but also makes it easier to create contrast between the espresso and milk when you're crafting your latte art.
In our tests, both the Breville Bambino Plus and the SOLIS Barista Perfetta Plus were able to heat the milk to over 140 degrees Fahrenheit in 45 seconds, producing a smooth milk foam perfect for latte art. So, if you're keen on practicing latte art, make sure that the steamer is strong enough.
Consider a Fully Automatic Machine for a Quick and Easy Espresso
Fully automatic espresso machines are great for those who want a quick and easy espresso experience. There's no need to grind coffee beans beforehand, and you can extract espresso at the push of a button. While the flavor may not be as robust as with semi-automatic types, the convenience factor is a big plus. This is especially useful for busy mornings or when you're serving a large group.
8 Best Espresso Machines Ranking
Products | Image | mybest Score | Click to purchase | Key features | Main Score | Details | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Espresso Taste | Warm Up Time | Ease of Maintenance | Strength of Milk Steamer | Compactness | Type | Width | Depth | Height | Weight | Water tank capacity | Brew pressure | Internal self-cleaning feature | Removable water tank | Accessories | ||||||
1 | Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine｜BES880BSS1BUS1 | | 4.46 | Easy and Delicious Espresso—If You Have the Space | 4.50 | 5.00 | 4.29 | 4.65 | 3.00 | Semi-automatic | 12.5 in. | 12.7 in. | 16 in. | 26.8 lb. | 1981 ml. | 9 bar | unknown | Razor Precision Dose trimming tool, ClaroSwiss water filter, 54 mm. full stainless steel portafilter, 480ml stainless steel jug, dosing funnel attachment, single and double wall filter baskets, cleaning kit, water hardness test strip | ||
2 | Solis of Switzerland Solis｜Barista Perfetta Plus | | 4.32 | Enjoy Café-Style Espresso and Try Your Hand at Latte Art | 4.00 | 4.65 | 4.29 | 4.65 | 4.91 | Semi-automatic | 7.36 in. | 14.64 in. | 12.64 in. | 12.56 lb. | 1700 ml. | 15 bar | unknown | Stainless-steel milk jug, single-wall and double-wall filter, measuring spoon, tamper, filter for E.S.E. pads | ||
3 | Breville The Bambino Plus｜BES500BSS1BUS1 | | 4.18 | Our Top Pick for Café-Quality Lattes | 3.63 | 5.00 | 4.29 | 4.65 | 4.68 | Semi-automatic | 7.7 in. | 12.6 in. | 12.2 in. | 3.1 lb. | 1893 ml. | 9 bar | Razor Precision Dosing tool, 54 mm. tamper, 1 and 2 cup single wall & dual wall filter baskets, stainless steel milk jug, cleaning tool, cleaning disc | |||
4 | Chefman Barista Pro Plus Espresso Machine｜RJ54 | | 4.14 | Balanced Flavor, Although Maintenance Is Tricky | 4.75 | 4.65 | 3.46 | 3.22 | 4.53 | Semi-automatic | 8.3 in. | 11 in. | 12.6 in. | 10.58 lb. | 1800 ml. | 15 bar | Portafilter double shot basket, portafilter single shot basket, coffee measuring scoop and tamper | |||
5 | CASABREWS CM5418 Compact 20-Bar Espresso Machine｜CM5418 | | 4.01 | Great for Small Kitchen Spaces, but Milk Steaming Falls Short | 4.00 | 4.65 | 3.57 | 3.51 | 5.00 | Semi-automatic | 5.47 in. | 12.28 in. | 11.97 in. | 8.59 lb. | 1000 ml. | unknown | Manual, 51 mm. stainless steel portafilter, 1 and 2 cup double wall filter basket, coffee grind measuring scoop and tamper | |||
6 | Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine｜EP3241/54 | | 3.87 | Thin and Lukewarm Foam, and the Machine Is Too Bulky | 3.85 | 4.65 | 5.00 | 3.00 | 3.00 | Fully automatic | 9.7 in. | 17 in. | 14.6 in. | 17.64 lb. | 1800 ml. | 15 bar | Measuring scoop, AquaClean filter, LatteGo storage lid, water hardness test strip, grease tube | |||
BrevilleBarista Touch Espresso Machine ｜ BES880BSS1BUS1
| Type | Semi-automatic |
|---|---|
| Brew pressure | 9 bar |
| Internal self-cleaning feature | unknown |
| Removable water tank |
- Width
- 12.5 in.
- Depth
- 12.7 in.
- Height
- 16 in.
Easy and Delicious Espresso—If You Have the Space
The Barista Touch Espresso Machine by Breville is a semi-automatic model that comes with a built-in pressure gauge, allowing you to monitor the extraction pressure.
The extracted espresso had a thick crema and a pleasant level of acidity, making it easy to drink. Testers commented that it was "flavorful, well-balanced, and offered a rich taste experience."
The steam nozzle heats the milk up to 143.6 degrees Fahrenheit in just 45 seconds, earning high marks. The powerful steam creates finely textured, smooth milk, perfect for a delicious latte. Plus, you can start extracting almost immediately after turning on the machine, so it’s stress-free to use even on busy mornings.
While the machine's parts aren't dishwasher-safe, the removable water tank and automatic internal cleaning feature make it easy to maintain. However, it's worth noting that the machine is fairly large, measuring about 12.6 inches in width, 15.75 inches in height, and 12.2 inches in depth. So, make sure you have enough counter space before you decide to bring this one home.
| Weight | 26.8 lb. |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 1981 ml. |
| Accessories | Razor Precision Dose trimming tool, ClaroSwiss water filter, 54 mm. full stainless steel portafilter, 480ml stainless steel jug, dosing funnel attachment, single and double wall filter baskets, cleaning kit, water hardness test strip |
Solis of SwitzerlandSolis ｜ Barista Perfetta Plus
| Type | Semi-automatic |
|---|---|
| Brew pressure | 15 bar |
| Internal self-cleaning feature | unknown |
| Removable water tank |
- Width
- 7.36 in.
- Depth
- 14.64 in.
- Height
- 12.64 in.
Enjoy Café-Style Espresso and Try Your Hand at Latte Art
The Solis Barista Perfetta Plus from Solis of Switzerland is a semi-automatic machine that has won both the Red Dot Design Award and the Good Design Award.
The extracted espresso had a strong crema and a robust flavor. The taste was notably bitter, with a good balance of acidity. However, some testers picked up on a hint of burnt bitterness in the aftertaste, which lost it some points in the rating.
The steam nozzle is another highlight, heating the milk up to 143.6 degrees Fahrenheit in just 45 seconds. The powerful steam not only makes for delicious lattes but also allows you to create beautiful latte art. Plus, if you're in a hurry in the mornings, you'll be glad to know it takes just one minute from turning on the machine to being ready to extract.
While it's not dishwasher-safe, the removable water tank and automatic internal cleaning feature make it easy to keep the machine clean. It's also pretty compact, measuring about six-and-a-quarter inches wide, 12.6 inches tall, and 12.2 inches in depth, so it won't take up too much space in your kitchen.
If you're someone who values both design and the ability to enjoy making caffè lattes at home, this machine is definitely worth considering.
| Weight | 12.56 lb. |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 1700 ml. |
| Accessories | Stainless-steel milk jug, single-wall and double-wall filter, measuring spoon, tamper, filter for E.S.E. pads |
BrevilleThe Bambino Plus ｜ BES500BSS1BUS1
| Type | Semi-automatic |
|---|---|
| Brew pressure | 9 bar |
| Internal self-cleaning feature | |
| Removable water tank |
- Width
- 7.7 in.
- Depth
- 12.6 in.
- Height
- 12.2 in.
Our Top Pick for Café-Quality Lattes
The Bambino Plus by Breville is a semi-automatic machine. With the attached steam nozzle, you can either control the steam manually or choose from three different temperature and texture settings for automatic milk steaming.
The extracted espresso had a thick crema and a very strong flavor. Many found it difficult to drink black due to the intense bitterness. Testers mentioned that the "harsh bitterness had a burnt quality, making it hard to drink," which led to lower ratings.
One particularly strong point is the powerful steam nozzle; it took just 45 seconds to reach a drinkable temperature of 140.54 degrees Fahrenheit. The milk turns out creamy and rich, making it perfect for crafting delicious lattes. Another perk is that you can start brewing almost immediately after turning on the machine; a real time-saver for those busy mornings.
While the parts aren't dishwasher-safe, the water tank is removable and the machine comes with an automatic internal cleaning feature, making maintenance pretty straightforward. Plus, with a compact size of 6.5 inches wide, 13 inches tall, and 13 inches deep, it's compact enough to fit in any kitchen.
| Weight | 3.1 lb. |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 1893 ml. |
| Accessories | Razor Precision Dosing tool, 54 mm. tamper, 1 and 2 cup single wall & dual wall filter baskets, stainless steel milk jug, cleaning tool, cleaning disc |
ChefmanBarista Pro Plus Espresso Machine ｜ RJ54
| Type | Semi-automatic |
|---|---|
| Brew pressure | 15 bar |
| Internal self-cleaning feature | |
| Removable water tank |
- Width
- 8.3 in.
- Depth
- 11 in.
- Height
- 12.6 in.
Balanced Flavor, Although Maintenance Is Tricky
The Chefman Barista Pro Plus Espresso Machine is a semi-automatic model that comes with an auto milk steamer, allowing you to make frothy milk for lattes at the push of a button.
The espresso extracted had a light crema and a well-balanced flavor with minimal off-notes. Testers commented that it was "easy to drink black since the flavor wasn't too strong."
Instead of a steam nozzle, this machine features an auto milk steamer. Just press a button, and the milk gets automatically heated and poured into your cup. However, the milk reaches a high temperature of 172.4 degrees Fahrenheit, which might be too high if you prefer to pour your own milk for lattes. On the plus side, it takes just one minute from turning on the machine to being ready for extraction.
The machine is fairly compact, measuring about 8.3 inches wide, 12.6 inches tall, and 10.2 inches in depth, so it should fit comfortably even in smaller kitchens. When it comes to maintenance, the water tank is removable, and some parts are dishwasher-safe, which is a plus. However, while there's an automatic cleaning feature for the auto milk steamer, there isn't one for the main body of the machine, which is a drawback if you're someone who likes to keep your machine spotless.
| Weight | 10.58 lb. |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 1800 ml. |
| Accessories | Portafilter double shot basket, portafilter single shot basket, coffee measuring scoop and tamper |
CASABREWSCM5418 Compact 20-Bar Espresso Machine ｜ CM5418
| Type | Semi-automatic |
|---|---|
| Brew pressure | unknown |
| Internal self-cleaning feature | |
| Removable water tank |
- Width
- 5.47 in.
- Depth
- 12.28 in.
- Height
- 11.97 in.
Great for Small Kitchen Spaces, but Milk Steaming Falls Short
The CM5418 Compact 20-Bar Espresso Machine by CASABREWS is a semi-automatic model featuring a large, easy-to-read pressure gauge that lets you monitor the extraction pressure.
The extracted espresso had a crema but initially gave a strong acidic impression. However, the overall balance of flavors was good, making it easy to drink. Testers mentioned that "the bitterness wasn't overpowering, allowing for a refreshing drinking experience."
It takes just one minute from turning on the machine to being ready for extraction, so you won't feel stressed even when you're short on time. Plus, its compact size is a major advantage. With dimensions of about five inches wide, 11.4 inches high, and 11.8 inches in depth, you won't struggle to find a spot for it.
However, the machine's milk steaming is a bit of a letdown. It only heats up the milk to 120.38 degrees Fahrenheit in 45 seconds, which is on the weaker side. If you're into latte art or want rich, creamy foam, you might find this aspect disappointing.
The water tank is detachable, and the drip tray is dishwasher-safe. However, there's no automatic cleaning feature, so it’s a bit challenging to keep the machine's internals clean.
| Weight | 8.59 lb. |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 1000 ml. |
| Accessories | Manual, 51 mm. stainless steel portafilter, 1 and 2 cup double wall filter basket, coffee grind measuring scoop and tamper |
Philips3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine ｜ EP3241/54
| Type | Fully automatic |
|---|---|
| Brew pressure | 15 bar |
| Internal self-cleaning feature | |
| Removable water tank |
- Width
- 9.7 in.
- Depth
- 17 in.
- Height
- 14.6 in.
Thin and Lukewarm Foam, and the Machine Is Too Bulky
The 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine by Philips is a fully automatic model operated via touch panel, featuring an auto milk steamer.
The extracted espresso had a light crema and a mild bitterness. The overall flavor was weak and lacked depth, leading testers to comment that it "just tasted like a stronger than average coffee but wasn't satisfying," which resulted in lower ratings.
It takes just one minute from turning on the machine to being ready for extraction, earning it high marks for speed. Maintenance is also a breeze, as all parts except for the drip tray divider are dishwasher-safe. The water tank is removable, and the machine has a handy automatic internal cleaning feature.
Instead of a steam nozzle, this machine comes with an auto milk steamer. Just press a button, and the milk gets automatically heated and poured into your cup. However, the milk only reaches a temperature of 122 degrees Fahrenheit, which is on the lower side. If you're into latte art, this might not be the machine for you. Also, its larger size—measuring about nine inches wide, 14.2 inches high, and 16.1 inches deep—means you'll need to carefully consider where to place it.
| Weight | 17.64 lb. |
|---|---|
| Water tank capacity | 1800 ml. |
| Accessories | Measuring scoop, AquaClean filter, LatteGo storage lid, water hardness test strip, grease tube |
How We Tested the Espresso Machines
At mybest, we believe the best espresso machine will be one that allows you to effortlessly make and enjoy café-quality espresso and lattes on a daily basis.
To find such a machine, we gathered six top-selling espresso machines from popular brands as well as bestsellers from Amazon, Walmart, and Target. We then rigorously tested them based on the following five criteria.
Test①：Flavor of espresso
Test②：Strength of milk steamer
Test③：Ease of maintenance
Test④：Compactness
Test⑤：Length of warm-up time
Products we tested
- Breville｜Barista Touch Espresso Machine｜BES880BSS1BUS1
- Breville｜The Bambino Plus｜BES500BSS1BUS1
- CASABREWS｜CM5418 Compact 20-Bar Espresso Machine｜CM5418
- Chefman｜Barista Pro Plus Espresso Machine｜RJ54
- Philips｜3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine｜EP3241/54
- Solis of Switzerland｜Solis｜Barista Perfetta Plus
Flavor of Espresso
We set the standard for a delicious espresso as one that would satisfy even strict coffee enthusiasts. As such, we had a panel of coffee lovers rate the quality of the espresso extracted from each machine. Here's how we conducted the tests.
Scoring Method
Each machine's espresso was tasted by our panel, who then rated its flavor. We then converted these ratings into scores of how much they recommend each product.
Test Conditions
- Testers: 10 people who drink coffee at least 3 times a week and understand that the roast level affects the flavor
- Water used: 30 bottles of Kirkland Signature Spring Water, 20.29 ounces each
- Coffee beans: Starbucks Medium Roast Whole Bean Coffee
- Grinder: Fellow Ode Brew Grinder
- Tamper: De'Longhi Barista Tool Tamper
- Extraction recipe: We followed the machine's recommended recipe for the amount of coffee and water used. If no recommendation was given, we used 18 grams of coffee and 40 grams of water.
- Grind size: We kept the grind size consistent for all tests, adjusting only to ensure the extraction time was between 25 and 35 seconds.
Aspects Evaluated
- Overall Flavor
- Bitterness
- Acidity
- Aroma
- Intensity
- Mouthfeel
Strength of Milk Steamer
For a machine with a powerful milk steamer, we were looking for a machine with a steam nozzle which can produce rich steamed milk in a short amount of time. Here's how we evaluated each product:
Scoring Method
Our testers checked each product and scored them based on various aspects, converting these into recommendation scores.
Aspects Evaluated
- Whether a steam nozzle is included
- How much the milk temperature rises after 45 seconds of steaming
Ease of Maintenance
We defined an easy-to-maintain espresso machine as one with an automatic cleaning function and dishwasher-safe parts. Here's how we evaluated each product.
Scoring Method
Our testers checked each product and scored them based on various aspects, converting these into recommendation scores.
Aspects Evaluated
- Whether the water tank is detachable
- If the parts are dishwasher-safe
- Presence of an automatic cleaning function
Compactness
We compared the different machines in order to find one that can fit into a small kitchen space. Here's how we evaluated each product.
Scoring Method
We measured the actual dimensions of each product to calculate its volume. Products with a volume of 823 cubic inches or less were rated higher.
Length of Warm-Up Time
When it came to warm-up time, we defined a fast espresso machine as one that is quick to start extracting once it's turned on. Here's how we evaluated each product.
Scoring Method
We measured the time it took for each machine to be ready for extraction after being turned on. Products that were ready faster received higher scores, with the ideal wait time being under a minute.
Top 5 Espresso Machines
No. 1: Breville｜Barista Touch Espresso Machine｜BES880BSS1BUS1
No. 2: Solis of Switzerland｜Solis｜Barista Perfetta Plus
No. 3: Breville｜The Bambino Plus｜BES500BSS1BUS1
No. 4: Chefman｜Barista Pro Plus Espresso Machine｜RJ54
No. 5: CASABREWS｜CM5418 Compact 20-Bar Espresso Machine｜CM5418
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