Best Budget Espresso Machines
If you're looking for an espresso maker, choose one that can make rich, flavorful shots, and also that is able to steam milk efficiently. Some machines are fully automated and can do all of the work for you, but these typically sacrifice flavor and texture.
The De'Longhi Stilosa offers a simple, easy-to-use option that doesn't require much counter space. It also stands up well to wear and tear.
Capresso EC50 Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
The Capresso EC50 Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine strikes an impressive balance between price and quality. It's affordable for novices, but sturdy and reliable enough to satisfy even the most experienced espresso drinkers. It also comes with a versatile milk frother that whips lattes and cappuccinos within minutes.
When shopping for an espresso maker, take into consideration how often you'll be using it and how many people will be drinking your beverages. If you intend to make one or two cups of espresso a day, a single-shot espresso maker will be sufficient. However, if you want to regularly serve guests an additional capacity could be necessary.
Certain espresso machines have a built in grinder however, others require a separate unit. The latter is more convenient, but it produces less tasty coffee than a burr mill.
Select a model with PID control. This feature electronically regulates the temperature of the boiler. This offers an accurate and consistent result than a regular mechanical thermostat.
A transparent water tank allows you to see when it is time to refill it, and the removable chamber for brewing helps in cleaning. Additionally, the machine connects directly to the water supply in your home to ensure a cleaner, more consistent brew.
The CASABREWS 3700Essential espresso machine is another solid option for those looking to get started with espresso making without spending a lot of money. It's not as great as the top brands, but it makes strong shots that are packed with flavor and body. The machine's intuitive user interface is also easy to use.
A clear, front-facing dial as well as a water reservoir that is removable, 42 ounces are just two of the features that make this espresso maker a great purchase. The machine also comes with a dual frother, which can be switched between frothing and steaming (the former whips milk for cappuccinos and the latter injects hot air into milk to make lattes). The design of the water tank on this model is annoying. It's difficult to refill and may be difficult to place.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus espresso machine is compact and small that allows you to make espresso and lattes that are of cafe quality in your own home. It is simple to use and does not require any special expertise or knowledge in coffee making. This makes it ideal for those who are new to the art of making espresso.
It is equipped with a few characteristics that distinguish it against other entry-level models. It comes with a PID which helps ensure accurate temperatures of the water during extraction. It employs a low-pressure pre-infusion process to get the maximum flavor from your beans. It also has a fast warming time thanks to its ThermoJet system. This allows you to begin brewing in just three seconds, which saves you a lot of time in the morning as you're trying to get out the door.
Another great feature is that the Bambino Plus has a dedicated steam wand that can be used to create smooth, frothy and creamy milk for cappuccinos and lattes. It comes with two different settings for milk texture so you can customize your beverage to suit your needs. It's not able to create the silky microfoam that you can get from a professional machine, but it does offer promising options as a beginner.
The Bambino Plus is an excellent little espresso machine. However it's not equipped with the same number of bells and whistles as some Breville's higher-end models. It doesn't come with a hot water spout or steaming via manual, and it only ships with filter baskets that are pressurized in North America. However, if you have a good grinder that produces a fine espresso grind it's an excellent alternative for those looking to start espresso making at a low price point.
The Bambino Plus may look like toys but it's constructed with real metal. It also has very tight tolerances. It's easy to clean and comes with a few built-in reminders that help keep you on track with decaling and cleaning. You'll start saving money within a couple of weeks on expensive coffee shopping trips.
Philips 3200 Series
The Philips 3200 Series fully automatic espresso machine offers a lot of functionality for the price. This is a great choice for anyone who wants to cut down on the number of trips they make small espresso machine to coffee shops and have control of how their morning cup of coffee is made. This budget-friendly all-in-one machine comes with an integrated grinder and brew unit along with hot water functions and an automated milk frother. It offers a variety of drinks that include iced coffee as well as cappuccinos and lattes.
The machine is easy to use and maintain. The My Coffee Choice feature allows you to adjust the strength of your drink to your personal preference. The machine can remember your preferences for every drink. The machine also features an AquaClean filter that according to the company will ensure it is free of scale buildup up for up to 5000 cups of coffee.
One drawback of this model is that it takes longer to brew shots than other models. This isn't an incredibly big issue, but it could make some users uncomfortable. The grinder in this model is also a little coarse, so you may have to grind it slightly more than other models.
Another positive is the Philips 3200's programable timer which can be set to automatically start the brewing process at specific time intervals. This can be especially helpful for busy people. The machine also comes with an adjustable drip tray that is easily removed and cleaned for a quicker cleanup. Philips includes grease tubes to help lubricate your brew machine at minimum every two months.
The front-loading tank makes it easy to refill the machine. The water reservoir can hold up to 1.7 gallon and the machine will notify you when it is time to replace the filter or add water. The controls are simple to use and feature an interface with a touchscreen. The display will inform you when your coffee is finished and various lights will indicate if there's been an error or if the machine requires to be descaled.
Hamilton Beach Espresso Maker
Hamilton Beach 40715 Espresso machine is a great choice for those who wish to get the most value for their buck. This budget-friendly machine permits you to use ground coffee, K-Cups, or espresso pods that have been measured. The built-in milk maker allows you to make lattes and cappuccinos that are of a high-quality café. This feature is not typical in machines of this priced.
The 40715 is extremely easy to use and maintain. Its unique Slide and Lock portafilter makes it simple to insert the filter, lock it in place, and then extract your espresso effortlessly. A timer that can be programmed lets you set a specific time for brewing, making sure that your espresso is always ready when you need it. The auto-pause and serve function allows you to pour your espresso mid-brew.
The large water tank of the 40715 is another benefit. This can save you from needing to refill your water reservoir regularly, saving you both money and hassle. The machine's filter basket that is removable and dishwasher-safe components make it easy to maintain and clean.
The 40715 performs at the same level as other machines in its class. The 15-bar Italian pump makes a the most delicious and flavorful espresso, and the adjustable steam control ensures that your beverages will be perfect each time. A programmable clock as well as an the automatic pause-and-serve feature are both helpful features.
Hamilton Beach 40715 is a fantastic product that has many positive features. However there are some issues to consider prior to purchasing. One issue is the small boiler capacity, which can cause the water to cool too quickly and spoil the extraction process. A permanent filter is not included, so you might need to purchase additional filters in future.
If you're in the market for an espresso maker that's brand new, be sure to take a look at the selections available at your local retailer prior to making a decision. You can contact them ahead of time and inquire if the model you're looking for is in stock. Additionally, be sure to consider shipping costs or the convenience of picking up if you're ordering on the internet. If you're not satisfied with your purchase, take advantage of the return policy offered by the retailer to exchange it for something else.