7 Best Espresso Machines for 2022 Reviewed

Looking to brew authentic espresso right in your home? We don’t blame you for wanting to skip the long lines for some premium coffee. With an espresso machine, you can have a “shot”, latte, or cappuccino right in your kitchen.

However, with the many models available, it can quickly become confusing as to which is the best for your kitchen. We help narrow down the shopping process by providing the best home espresso machines in 2021.

After checking out our top picks, be sure to read the detailed buyers guide at the end. This outlines what you want to consider to find the perfect espresso machine for you. 

The Best Espresso Machines

Product Review Rating Price
De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine Read Review 5.0 Check Price
Breville Infuser Espresso Machine Read Review 4.9 Check Price
Breville the Barista Espresso Machine Read Review 4.8 Check Price
La Pavoni Europiccola Espresso Machine Read Review 4.8 Check Price
De’Longhi Dedica Espresso Machine Read Review 4.6 Check Price
Smeg Espresso Machine Read Review 4.6 Check Price
Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine Read Review 4.5 Check Price
Our Favourite

1. De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine

5.0/5.0
Looks / Appearance 5.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 5.0 / 5.0
Functionality 5.0 / 5.0

Pros

  • – 1 second quick start (no additional heat up time necessary)
  • – Generous 2 year warranty 
  • – Advanced latte system included 
  • – Offers mess-free experiences 
  • – Includes extra accessories (milk pitcher & cleaning brush)

Cons

  • – Expensive

The De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine was made with the passionate espresso and coffee drinker in mind. This machine allows users to handcraft their very own espresso, enlightening their coffee experiences right in their homes.

2. Breville Infuser Espresso Machine

4.9/5.0
Looks / Appearance 5.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 5.0 / 5.0
Functionality 5.0 / 5.0

Pros

  • – Unique infusing style of brewing
  • – Hot water function
  • – Programmable functions for personalized settings
  • – Pressure gauge for complete control
  • – Includes a lot of accessories for optimal results

Cons

  • – No built-in grinder
  • – Water tank is a bit smaller than other similar models

Providing a “hands-on” barista-like experience, this machine is great for someone who is experienced as well as the curious and motivated learner who is craving that at-home coffee shop feels.

3. Breville the Barista Espresso Machine

4.8/5.0
Looks / Appearance 5.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 5.0 / 5.0
Functionality 4.0 / 5.0

Pros

  • – 16 Grind Settings
  • – PID Temperature Control
  • – Steam Wand on 360 swivel joint

Cons

  • – Heavy to carry

Considering this aspect, and many more we’ll get into below, it’s not surprising that this machine won the 2013 award for Best New Consumer Product by the Specialty Coffee Association of America.

4. La Pavoni Europiccola Espresso Machine

4.8/5.0
Looks / Appearance 5.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 5.0 / 5.0
Functionality 4.8 / 5.0

Pros

  • – 12 month manufacturer warranty
  • – Beautifully hand-crafted 
  • – Automatic cappuccino frother
  • – Brew up to 2 cups at one time

Cons

  • – You’ll need your own grinder

Keep reading to see how the La Pavoni Europiccola Espresso Machine could be worth the investment so that you can soon be sipping an enticing espresso in the comfort of your own home.

5. De’Longhi Dedica Espresso Machine

4.6/5.0
Looks / Appearance 4.8 / 5.0
Ease of use 4.4 / 5.0
Functionality 4.5 / 5.0

Pros

  • – Lightweight and compact design
  • – Relatively easy to use
  • – Affordably priced
  • – Relatively quick heating time 
  • – Auto shut off

Cons

  • – Separate grinder needed 
  • – A bit noisy when in use

The DeLonghi Dedica Espresso Machine is noticeably compact and convenient but has features that allow users an amazing cup of espresso at the same time.

6. Smeg Espresso Machine

4.6/5.0
Looks / Appearance 5.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 5.0 / 5.0
Functionality 4.0 / 5.0

Pros

  • – 1 or 2 cup functions
  • – Quick heat uptime
  • – Adjustable cappuccino system
  • – Smart customization options
  • – Impressive 1300W of power

Cons

  • – Not ideal for a coffee-making novice

Looking to achieve a silky foam top, perfect crema, or that “brewed in Italy” flavor from your own espresso cup? Look no further. The Smeg definitely delivers high-quality brews, but it does also require a level of understanding beyond the average “press and brew” machine.

7. Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine

4.5/5.0
Looks / Appearance 5.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 4.0 / 5.0
Functionality 5.0 / 5.0

Pros

  • – Easy to use and clean
  • – Can make hot or cold beverages
  • – Super compact and lightweight
  • – Very portable
  • – Affordably priced

Cons

  • – Uses pods only 
  • – Plastic can last be less durable

If making a quick, mouth-watering cup of smooth espresso is your goal, the Essenza Mini Espresso Machine delivers. Perfect for beginner espresso makers who are uninterested in taking hours to learn how to use a complicated espresso machine, this Nespresso fits the bill.

What is an Espresso Machine? 

Espresso is a very concentrated form of coffee served as “shots”. Therefore, an espresso machine is a kitchen appliance that produces just this! It works by forcing nearly boiling pressurized water through ground coffee and a filter. As a result, you get espresso. 

What to Look For in an Espresso Machine? 

Eight factors stood out to us when choosing the best home espresso machines of 2021. We’ll outline each and every one of them below. 

Ease of Use

No one wants a kitchen appliance that involves a large learning curve. We all want one that is convenient and easy to use. Several models offer just this. In fact, there are even models that make more complex espresso drinks like cappuccinos or lattes with the press of a button. 

Always, always, always review the buttons of an espresso coffee maker before purchasing one. Look for models that offer programmable settings. If you find all the buttons and added features intuitive, you may be looking at a winner!

Quick and Easy Cleaning 

If you find an espresso machine that’s super convenient to use, but a pain to clean, should you really label it as convenient? The cleaning process needs to be considered because you don’t want to find yourself spending an entire hour cleaning your appliance. 

Inform yourself about the steps necessary to clean your appliance. The more components it has is usually a reflection of how long it will take you to clean. 

Price 

Everyone has a budget and the good news is that espresso machines range significantly when it comes down to cost. There are so many different factors that go into these types of appliances. These elements are reflected in their price. 

For instance, in high-end models, you’re paying more money for the quality of the materials or durability. Sometimes, the higher cost has to do with the extra features it includes. Other times, you’re paying for ease of use and convenience. Then, you have lower-end models that do their job and nothing more. 

There is not one sole element that determines pricing, so you need to know what is important to you and base your shopping decision off of this. 

Customer Service 

Chances are if you’re buying an espresso coffee maker, you plan to hang on to it for the long haul. This means you want them to last you as long as possible. If and when you find yourself needing to contact the manufacturers – whether for repairs or parts – you want a customer service team who is ready to take your call. 

A way to learn if the brand you’re considering has a reliable customer care team is reading online reviews. See what other people are saying about the product and their experiences dealing with the manufacturer. You may learn that shoppers have had the same machine for several years without ever needing help. 

Size 

We often overlook this factor, but it’s actually very important because you don’t want to go with a model that doesn’t fit well in your kitchen space. Consider where you plan on placing your new appliance. Does it sit comfortably without sacrificing the accessibility of a different kitchen appliance? If it does, consider going with a smaller model that holds all the necessary features that you need.

Extra Features To Consider 

You’ll quickly find that some models come with impressive extras. Here are some of the added features you want to consider: 

  • – Built-In Coffee Grinder
  • – Water Filter 
  • – Cup Warmer
  • – Programmable Settings 
  • – Frothing Wand
  •  

What are the Benefits of Using an Espresso Machine? 

The biggest benefit for the passionate espresso drinker is having their morning fix quickly every single morning. With an espresso machine, there is no reason to wait in long lines to get a quality beverage. You’ll get to craft your coffee exactly the way you want it and experiment with different flavors all at the same time. 

If you’re a coffee enthusiast and really seeking to understand this beverage, this machine can help. After all, the more cups of joe you drink, the more you’ll understand what you’re tasting. Finding which flavors you like will help you take exploration into your own hands.

Did we mention that the best espresso machine makes for the ultimate host? Think about it… when you have guests over and you offer them a cup of coffee, you’re sure to brighten their day. They don’t even have to be guests! We’re sure surprising your partner in the morning with a hot espresso or tasty Americano will make their day. 

What Drinks Can You Make Using an Espresso Machine?

Where do we even start! So many drinks can be made using this versatile machine. Here are a few:  

  • – Espresso (of course)
  • – Americano 
  • – Cappuccino
  • – Cafe Latte 
  • – Espresso Macchiato
  • – Latte Macchiato
  • – Mocha
  •  

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to espresso drinks. With your machine, you’ll be able to try as many of these drinks as you’d like, among many others!

Conclusion 

With this information in mind, the final step is narrowing down the shopping decision and getting your hands on the best espresso machine for you.