Our Favorite Espresso Machines of 2024
Our Favorite Espresso Machines of 2024
Discover the ideal espresso maker for your requirements, ranging from the high-end Jura E8 to the more affordable De'Longhi Stilosa.
The reviews of the products in this article are created by a team of experts that is independent from CTech's editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission.
Our Top Picks
There's more to making your own coffee in the morning than just saving money. Instead, a lot of individuals take pleasure in choosing their beans, grinding them freshly, and brewing them to their own preferences. It's also something you want to replicate every morning after you taste that amazing cup of Joe. A good espresso machine gives you full control over every part of the coffee-making process, from the size of the beans used to the length of time they are brewed. After researching the market extensively, we have selected five espresso machines that we believe would be the most useful for coffee lovers of all kinds. Let's examine each one's features in more detail!
1 . CasaBrews Espresso Machine
Starting off our guide is this wonderful all-in-one espresso machine by CASABREWS that can produce high-quality espresso with zero effort. The device combines a professional 20-bar high-pressure pump with a one-hole steam wand designed for commercial use. With these features, it's great for making smooth microform milk for lattes and cappuccinos, although smaller pitchers work best. The settings for heating milk and adjusting the strength of a single or double dose are incredibly intuitive. Not to mention, it heats up really quickly, taking less than a minute to brew.
Pros
20-bar professional pump, Commercial-style steam wand, User-friendly controls
Cons
A little loud at times
2 . Geek Chef Espresso Machine
This espresso machine may seem a lot like our first pick, but there are some key differences. For starters, this machine comes with a more powerful steam wand that excels at producing fine microforms that are characteristic of latte art and creamy textured drinks. The frother's nozzle is also removable for easy cleaning. It also provides independent thermostat controls for water and steam for users who want to fine-tune their brewing and frothing. And while it may not be as compact as the CASABREWS machine, it makes up for that with its strong stainless steel construction.
Pros
Powerful steam wand, Independent thermostat controls, Fast heating system
Cons
Portafilter is a bit difficult to remove
3 . De'Longhi Stilosa Espresso Machine
At an extremely low cost of $86, the De'Longhi Stilosa provides excellent value without sacrificing quality. It's lightweight, simple to operate, and has a manual milk frother to create foamy beverages like lattes. The stainless steel boiler maintains the ideal temperature for brewing coffee, guaranteeing consistently high-quality espresso. Additionally, the drip tray with two tiers is useful for holding a variety of cup sizes, including bigger mugs and tiny espresso cups. Overall, even though this espresso machine lacks some of the frills and fancy features that are taken for granted in its high-end counterparts, it nevertheless works well enough to provide a satisfying cup every morning.
Pros
Compact and simple design, Easy operation, Affordable price
Cons
Limited features
4 . Gaggia Classic Evo Pro Espresso Machine
Espresso lovers who prefer a more manual process often vouch for the Gaggia Classic Pro. It allows you to get up close and personal with brewing and milk frothing thanks to its professional-grade 58mm portafilter and powerful steam wand. The espresso machine also has a three-way solenoid valve that, once the coffee is brewed, swiftly releases pressure to produce an easily disposed-of dry puck. It offers consumers total control by letting them individually adjust the steaming, brewing, and power settings. Even though using the machine may take some getting used to, those who are prepared to put in the work will find it to be a fulfilling experience.
Pros
Commercial-grade portafilter, Professional steam wand, Compact design
Cons
Requires some manual skills
5 . Jura E8 Espresso Machine
The Jura E8, the priciest espresso maker on our list and arguably the priciest we've ever laid eyes on, is an upscale super-automatic that's so easy to use you'll begin to question how you ever got by without it. With a single push of a button, it can do everything from froth milk to ground beans. You can easily personalize your drinks with the touch screen, and the Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.) guarantees that your coffee will have the greatest flavor possible. It even comes with a smart water filter that will keep your water fresh and your machine going well.
Pros
Touch screen interface, Customizable settings, Self-cleaning function
Cons
Super expensive
6 . Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine
Fascinated by trying new things with your coffee? The Breville Barista Touch is a great example of how to benefit from automation while still having the option for human control. Its user-friendly touch screen allows you to create your own recipes or select from pre-set ones. The automatic milk frothing feature allows you to easily create the perfect microfoam for latte art. Furthermore, it has a built-in grinder and steam wand that are great for people who like to switch things up every once in a while. With the added bonus of the ThermoJet heating system, the machine is ready to brew in a mere three seconds.
Pros
Touch screen interface, Built-in grinder, Customizable settings
Cons
Limited milk frothing capacity
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between an espresso machine and a coffee machine?
A: An espresso machine uses high pressure to force hot water through finely ground coffee, producing a rich and concentrated shot of espresso. In contrast, a coffee machine typically brews coffee by dripping hot water through coarser grounds over a longer period, resulting in a milder, larger cup of coffee. The key difference lies in the brewing method and the intensity of the coffee produced.
Q: Can any coffee be used for espresso?
A: While technically you can use any coffee beans for espresso, the best results come from beans that are specifically roasted and ground for espresso. Espresso beans are usually darker roasted, and the grind is much finer than what you would use for drip coffee. This ensures optimal flavor extraction and the right texture for a rich, creamy shot.
Q: Why do people buy espresso machines?
A: People buy espresso machines for a variety of reasons, including the convenience of making high-quality espresso at home, saving money on daily trips to coffee shops, and the ability to customize their coffee drinks to their liking. Having an espresso machine at home also allows coffee enthusiasts to experiment with different beans and brewing techniques.
Q: What is important when buying an espresso machine?
A: When buying an espresso machine, consider factors like build quality, ease of use, maintenance, and additional features such as a built-in grinder or steam wand. It’s also important to think about your personal coffee preferences and how much control you want over the brewing process. Look for a machine that balances your needs with your budget.
Q: What is the difference between an expensive and a cheap espresso machine?
A: Expensive espresso machines generally offer better build quality, more precise temperature and pressure control, and additional features like integrated grinders or steam wands. They also tend to be more durable and provide more consistent results. Cheaper machines might be less durable and have fewer features, but they can still make good espresso if you're on a budget. Consider your needs and how much you're willing to invest for better quality and features.
Article Contributors
Ctech Shopping Team
CTech's Shopping team brings you the latest in tech through carefully crafted reviews and guides, independent of their editorial team. As a reader-supported entity, our tech-savvy writers and editors sometimes incorporate AI in their analyses to verify the precision of product dimensions, availability, and pricing.
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