Make Great Coffee: 2024's Best Espresso Makers Reviewed
Make Great Coffee: 2024's Best Espresso Makers Reviewed
There's no better start to the day than a freshly brewed espresso. Read our expert guide to make yours.
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
If you’re tired of spending money at coffee shops or just want to enjoy a great espresso at home, finding the right espresso maker is key. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you find the best espresso maker for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick shot of espresso, rich and creamy froth, or a fully automatic machine that does it all, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover the perfect espresso maker to bring that coffee shop experience right into your kitchen.
1 . CasaBrews Espresso Maker with Pressure Gauge
The Casabrews Espresso Maker is a perfect pick for those who want to enjoy café-quality espresso right at home. With its professional 20-bar Italian pump, this machine delivers rich, aromatic shots every time. The built-in milk frothing system lets you create creamy, velvety microfoam, ideal for lattes and cappuccinos—perfect for those who love to get creative with their coffee. One of the best features of this espresso maker is the built-in pressure gauge, so you can make adjustments according to your preferences. Whether for daily use or as a thoughtful gift, this espresso maker ticks all the boxes.
Pros
Pressure gauge for adjustments, Includes milk frother, Removable water tank
Cons
Takes time to heat up
2 . Casabrews Espresso Maker with 49oz Tank
If you don't like the look of a pressure gauge, the Casabrews Espresso Maker with 49oz Tank stands out with its sleek, streamlined design. Featuring a clean look without the pressure gauge seen in other models, it would be perfect for those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic. It features a professional extraction system and steam wand for premium shots every time. The large 49oz water tank helps you brew more cups before needing a refill, great for busy mornings or when entertaining guests. Plus, the auto shut-off function ensures safety and energy efficiency, making it a reliable choice for home or office use.
Pros
Large detatchable water tank, Auto shut-off, Sleek brushed steel design
Cons
Cup warmer might heat up slowly
3 . AeroPress Portable Espresso Maker
The AeroPress Original Coffee and Espresso-style Maker is a must-have for coffee lovers on the go. Its portable, shatterproof design makes it easy to take anywhere, whether you're camping, traveling, or just want a better cup of coffee at work. What sets this coffee maker apart is its patented 3-in-1 brewing technology, which combines agitation, pressure, and micro-filtration. This means you can use finer ground coffee for a smoother, grit-free brew. Unlike a French press, it eliminates bitterness and acidity, delivering a rich, full-bodied cup every time. Plus, the quick cleanup and durable materials make it a reliable choice for any coffee enthusiast.
Pros
Patented brewing technology, Portable and lightweight, Eliminates bitterness
Cons
Requires light manual operation
4 . Breville Barista Touch Espresso Maker
The Breville Barista Touch Espresso Maker is perfect for both beginners and experienced coffee enthusiasts. Its touchscreen interface allows you to easily navigate through a pre-programmed menu of popular drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. For those who want more control, the adjustable settings let you fine-tune coffee strength, milk texture, and temperature to your exact preference. Unlike traditional models with a steam wand, this machine features an automated milk frothing system which makes it easy to create silky, café-quality microfoam. Plus, the built-in precision grinder ensures your coffee is always fresh and perfectly ground for each cup.
Pros
Includes a touch screen, Precision grider with 30 settings, Automated milk frothing
Cons
Milk frother hole is a little small
5 . Hamilton Beach Espresso Maker
The Hamilton Beach Espresso Maker is a versatile choice for espresso lovers who want to brew like a barista at home. One of its standout features is the ability to brew two cups simultaneously, making it an excellent option for offices or larger households. The machine is equipped with a 50oz removable water reservoir, ensuring you have enough water for multiple cups without constant refills. Plus, the no-fuss milk frother and adjustable steam control allow you to craft perfect lattes and cappuccinos. Cleaning is a breeze too, thanks to the easily removable parts like the water tank and drip tray.
Pros
15-bar pump for better extraction, Makes 2 cups simultaneously, Works with pods and grounds
Cons
Parts are only hand washable
6 . De'Longhi Fully Automatic Espresso Maker
The De'Longhi Magnifica Start Espresso Maker is a fully automatic solution for anyone who wants café-quality beverages at home with minimal effort. With five one-touch recipes—Latte Macchiato, Cappuccino, Espresso, Coffee, and Hot Water—you can have your favorite drinks ready in minutes. The built-in conical burr grinder ensures perfect grinding with 13 settings, giving you precise control over your coffee's flavor. The LatteCrema system is a standout feature, a proprietary technology that steams both milk and milk alternatives perfectly for ideal frothiness. Plus, the removable, dishwasher-safe parts make cleaning a breeze.
Pros
Textures milk and milk alternatives, Fully automatic,
Cons
Not suitable for narrow countertops
FAQ
Q: What are the different types of espresso makers, and which one is right for me?
A: Consider your experience, time, and how much control you want over your espresso. Manual espresso makers give you full control but require more skill and time. Semi-automatic machines offer a balance, allowing you to control the brewing time while automating water pressure and temperature. Automatic machines take over most of the process, making it easier but offering less control. Finally, super-automatic machines handle everything from grinding beans to frothing milk, perfect for convenience lovers who want a quick, easy cup with minimal effort.
Q: Does the boiler system on the espresso machine make a difference?
A: The choice depends on whether you prefer control or convenience. A steam wand and an automatic milk frother both help you make that creamy, frothy milk for lattes and cappuccinos, but they work a bit differently. A steam wand is manual, so you have to hold the pitcher and move it around to get the right texture. This gives you more control but takes a little practice. An automatic milk frother, on the other hand, does everything for you—just press a button. It's super convenient, especially if you’re in a hurry or don’t want to worry about technique.
Q: How do I clean my espresso maker?
A: Start by wiping down the machine daily, especially the steam wand and frother, to prevent milk residue buildup. It’s important to backflush your machine regularly (every week or so) with a cleaning solution or tablet, depending on your machine's instructions. Descale the machine every few months to remove mineral deposits, especially if you use hard water. Empty and rinse the drip tray and water reservoir regularly. Lastly, don’t forget to clean the grinder (if your machine has one) to prevent old coffee grounds from affecting the taste of your espresso.
Q: Can an espresso maker have trouble frothing milk alternatives?
A: Milk alternatives like almond, soy, or oat milk vary in their protein and fat content, which are key factors in creating a good froth. Higher protein content, found in some soy or pea-based milk alternatives, generally helps create a more stable froth, while higher fat content, like oat or coconut milk, can result in a creamier texture. Some of these milk alternatives are more prone to separating or curdling when heated, which can make frothing difficult.
Q: What additional features should I consider when choosing an espresso maker?
A: When choosing an espresso maker, consider additional features that can enhance your coffee-making experience. Automatic milk frothers are great when you are in a hurry. Built-in grinders can save space and ensure your coffee is freshly ground every time. Touch screens simplify operation with one-touch recipes and customizable settings. Some machines offer programmable options so you can save your favorite settings. Self-cleaning features can make maintenance easier by automatically rinsing and descaling the machine,
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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