Best Coffee Espresso Machines
Turn a knob, press one button, and voila! A delicious drink is in your hand. The machine won't win any beauty contests, but it does provide a tasty cup espresso that our test subjects found to be more coffee-like than some others.
It also requires a bit more work to operate than some other models we've looked at. It's still worth the effort if you are a Java lover who prefers to keep your hands off.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus will be the ideal Nespresso machine for you if you are a coffee lover looking for consistency and efficiency. The Vertuo Plus is easy to operate and has a minimalist design that can be incorporated with any kitchen design. Simply insert a capsule then press brew, and enjoy your beverage. The machine adjusts the brewing parameters automatically to maximize extraction according to the barcode of the capsule. This is a major selling point of the Nespresso Vertuo line, since you won't have to worry about setting different temperatures or pressure for different drinks. However, it does limit your options to only Nespresso pods and doesn't include an integrated milk frother.
The Vertuo Plus uses Nespresso's Centrifusion technology to create a thick smooth, creamy crema. The machine spins at speeds of up to 7000 rpm to extract the full spectrum of aromas and flavors in each capsule. It also heats and dispenses water at the same time, allowing you to make American drip coffee or espresso.
The Vertuo Plus is a lot less expensive than the Creatista Pro, which makes it the perfect choice for those who are looking to make a simple upgrade to their current Nespresso experience. The Vertuo Plus comes with a smaller water tank of 40 ounces as compared to the its deluxe counterpart's 60 ounces. If you're planning to prepare large drinks or to share it with guests, then the deluxe model is probably the best choice for you.
2. Barista Express Impress
The Barista Express Impress from Breville is a machine with a premium look and many useful features. Its intelligent dosing and assisted tamping help beginners simplify the process by automating parts of it, making it simple for anyone to make a decent espresso. It's also able to make small adjustments to the temperature of the water which baristas who have experience will appreciate, as just a few degrees can alter the flavor of the coffee.
The machine features a high-end, conical burr grinder that has 25 grind settings to fit any type of coffee. It also comes with a stainless-steel milk jug as well as one-cup and two-cup single-and double-wall filter baskets, which means you can decide the number of shots you want to make at a time. You can also use the frothing arms to create micro-foam for cappuccinos or lattes.
The interface of the espresso machine is easy to use and clearly explains every step. We also appreciated that the machine is constructed of durable plastic and doesn't need much. It's not cheap, but it's definitely a well-built machine with a lot of features that will last for years to be. It comes with a great warranty that covers mechanical problems within a year from the date of purchase. It's quite impressive for an espresso machine this pricey. It's definitely worth the money in case you're looking to test making espresso on a regular basis.
3. Gaggia Classic
Gaggia's Classic was first introduced in 1991. It quickly gained a following of cult status due to its minimalist design and - of course – its ability to make a delicious cup of espresso. Three decades later, it's back stronger than ever thanks to the new Classic Pro. The Classic Pro may not be as advanced as some lower-end machines however, it can deliver cafe-quality espresso thanks to the professional portafilter and group. As only a single boiler machine, it can't brew and steam at the same time and you'll need to wait a short while between pulling a shot.
The Classic Pro has a sleek industrial design and a feel that is elegant and sturdy in your hands. It has simple switches to turn it off/on, and to brew/steam, with indicator lights. The frame and switches of the Classic Pro are more durable, giving it an excellent feel.
In terms of accessories the Classic Pro doesn't come with many options, but the commercial-standard portafilter of 58 millimeters and the tamper made from plastic are a nice addition. A three-way solenoid valve is also a nice feature that helps prevent water pressure fluctuations and helps with getting rid of coffee pucks that are sloppy - something that cheaper machines struggle with. Gaggia has also added an elegant steam wand that is excellent at creating a frothy milk drink for latte art.
4. De'Longhi COM532M
The De'Longhi espresso maker is a great choice for those looking to experience barista-quality coffee at home. It is simple to use, and has many features. It has a stainless-steel boiler, brewhead, and portafilter as well as a removable water tank. The machine is compact and can be easily placed on most counters.
This espresso maker is equipped with the 15-bar pressure system which gives consistent results each time. It also can be heated up in under 40 seconds, thereby saving both time and energy. It is easy to clean and looks great on any kitchen counter. The De'Longhi is an excellent option espresso and filter coffee machine for coffee lovers looking to make their own coffee at home.
It is an all-in-one combination coffee and espresso machine that can create two cups at the same time. Dual heating allows you to make espresso and drip coffee simultaneously. This is a fantastic feature for parties, since it lets you serve your guests their favorite drinks at the same time.
The espresso machine comes with a milk frother which can be used to create delicious and creamy cappuccinos and Latte. The machine is easy to use using its easy touchscreen and buttons. The machine is quiet and doesn't make any noise while it is operating.