In this article, we will explore the best espresso machine under $500. We go over the benefits of each type and how to find a machine that fits your needs. This post is for all those who want to enjoy a good cup of coffee at home! You don’t have to spend a lot of money on an expensive model when there are many reasonably priced options available. In addition, you’ll get tips on cleaning and maintenance so that you can get maximum use from your new purchase. Happy reading!
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Top 10 Espresso Machine Under $500 Review 2022
1. Breville BES840BSXL Infuser Espresso Machine, Black Sesame
FEATURES:
- Easily make specialty coffee at home.
- Create a perfect shot every time.
- Espresso is at the perfect temperature for drinking
The Breville Infuser Espresso Machine is perfect for third wave specialty home brewing and features a patented variable grinding control, dose counter and dual boilers. This infuser machines helps you make the perfect espresso in no time with its cutting edge technology.
Choose from three settings: 1 shot, 2 shots or manually control the amount of water by adjusting the adjustable gooseneck spout to get your desired brew. Now you can experience true taste in every cup with these 3 key variables: beans quantity, water pressure and temperature which are all controllable on this machine that is optimized for flavor extraction to deliver quality third wave coffee brewed at home.
Seamlessly transform your coffee break into an experience of pure beauty with the Breville Infuser Espresso Machine.
Equipped with a powerful 1650 watts on-board element, resistant frothing attachment for microfoam, and auto purge system to ensure optimal temperature extraction on your perfect cup, this workhorse has all you need to explore the world of lattes arts. Make it anything you want; beautiful latte art creations are just one button away!
PROS
+ Ready to use very quickly.
+ Temperature control.
+ Quiet operation.
CONS
– Hard to create rich, dense foam.
– Water reservoir is small.
2. Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker | Café Barista , Silver
FEATURES:
- Makes great coffee, cappuccinos, and lattes.
- Easy to use touchscreen interface.
- Easy to use touchscreen.
- Comes with a milk frother and water reservoir.
The Mr. Coffee 3-in-1 Espresso and Cappuccino Maker will make you the star of your next evening party! This coffee maker can brew espresso, cappuccino and latte all at once.
The rich espresso tastes like the Italian style lattes without all the fuss because it’s automatic and doesn’t require milk that has to be heated separately. It features a 15 bar pump system that ensures that you get maximum flavor in each cup of coffee or espresso shot – no matter how thirsty they are!
The Mr. Coffee Café Barista espresso maker has a professional style and a one touch control panel that can accommodate different drinks, from classic espresso to cappuccino or latte.
With 1040 watts of power, it’s got the ability to provide up to 12 cups non-stop if filled with water and ground coffee before hand! The milk containers are removable for easy filling and drip-free serving too. All these functions make this machine the perfect addition not only in your kitchen but also at any restaurant or café where origin coffees are served!
PROS
+ Pressurised filter.
+ Easy to use.
+ Large volume reservoirs both for milk and water.
+ Removable milk reservoir.
CONS
– It’s a little noisy.
3. De’Longhi EC680M Espresso, Stainless Steel, Metallic
FEATURES:
- Makes coffee like a professional.
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
- Adjustable controls for personal taste preferences.
- Produces rich, creamy froth for evenly textured drinks.
- Easy to use and maintain.
- Convenient espresso pod holder available.
The De’Longhi EC680M Espresso, Stainless Steel, Metallic is perfect for the coffee lover in your family. From home-made to professional quality espresso with ease and convenience, this machine does it all!
Plus, maintenance is a breeze with the removable parts that are dishwasher safe so you can spend more time making espresso instead of scrubbing stains. Make sure to descale beforehand so it works optimally!
De’Longhi EC680M Espresso Machine is a master of making coffee. You can make up to 3 espressos at a time with this Italian-made machine, which comes with an advanced cappuccino system, automatic flow stop feature and three filters for easy serving.
The espresso machine includes the top selling De’Longhi CitiZ Deluxe Milk Frother, which heats and froths milk in seconds for that authentic latte taste without the barista price tag.
This space-saving espresso machine is designed to fit well on your countertop, and features a slim profile that leaves room for other things. The water tank is easy to remove and refill when needed, making the compact design practical for any kitchen.
PROS
+ Small.
+ Easy to use.
+ It is quiet,
+ Makes good coffee.
+ Easy to clean and maintain.
CONS
– Steam wand is very short.
– Portafilter feels fairly light.
4. Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine in Silver.
FEATURES:
- Frothing milk for coffee drinks is a breeze.
- Easy access to water tank and dregs drawer.
- Faster heat up times.
- Robust brewing and steaming operations.
The Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine’s all-in-one design allows you to focus on your passion—preparing coffee beverages.
The wand lets you froth milk for cappuccinos and lattes, while the easy access water tank, dregs drawer and drip tray can be easily accessed from the front of machine for quick cleanup. With push button controls and an LED display with illuminated icons, this unit is user-friendly every step of the way
This product includes features like a professional quality stainless steel commercial boiler to make up to eight espressos at once. Available in silver or black brushed steel finish options it offers both great looks and functionality making it perfect for any kitchen space!
A whopping 250 grams means fewer trips to your local coffee shop each morning and more money in your pocket! RAPID STEAM TECHNOLOGY helps us get that warm shot of caffeine into our system pronto, not to mention keep up with customer demand when you are running a small business or family café.
PROS
+ Taste of coffee.
+ Ease of use.
+ Design.
+ Easy clean-up of the brew group.
CONS
– Small water reservoir
5. DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino Machine, Black
FEATURES:
- Easy to use.
- Makes lattes, cappuccinos, and espresso.
- The EC155 is designed to make delicious espresso drinks fast and easily.
- It’s also easy on the eyes with its sleek design.
- Cleaner, fresher water with less hassle.
If you’re a coffee BUNN CSB3T Speed Brew Platinum Stainless Steel Coffee Maker is perfect for the coffee lover looking to simplify their morning routine.
Perfect for busy Gen X The DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso and Cappuccino Machine is professional-grade, creative, engineered to fit your tastes.
With a pressurized coffee system regulated professionally for accurate results every time and the ability to make adjustments specifically for you! Blend steam and milk like a pro manually with perfect consistency each time -to make drinks just like you enjoy at your favorite coffeehouse.
Wake up with the rich aroma of espresso brewed just right. Easy to use, this machine features a three-in-one filter holder that brews one intense shot or two regular shots for you daily caffeine fix.
With its Advanced Cappuccino System, your favorite bean beverage is always at the perfect temperature so there’s no waiting between cups. Perfect flavor every time with automatic cleaning and de-scaling for ultimate convenience in making deluxe drinks like Americano, espresso macchiato, cappuccino and latte.
The EC155 is a coffee pot that has never thwarted you with complicated design and inconvenient clean up. Instead, we’ve designed it to make your life easier: You’ll be able to remove the water tank and drip tray for easy cleaning, and you’ll see right away when the water level is too low thanks to our convenient indicator.
PROS
+ It is quiet
+ It’s easy to get a good shot.
+ Large reservoir for water.
+ Makes espresso quickly.
CONS
– Clean up is tedious
– Vibrates when drawing water
6. Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse Espresso Maker and Cappuccino Machine
FEATURES:
- The machine is easy to use.
- Makes coffee quickly and efficiently.
- Keep your drinks hotter for longer.
- No more burnt, cold coffee or tea.
- Save time and energy by not wasting any of it on heating up water manually.
Mr. Coffee One Touch Coffee House Espresso Maker is breaking new ground for espresso lovers with its 19 Bar Italian pump and Thermocouple heating system that gently heats water to avoid any scalding or burned taste in your drink.
We all know how difficult making a great cup of espresso can be so we made it easy with one button control for 1 or 2 shots of espresso at a time and even filled the machine edge-to-edge with high quality stainless steel that shines through beautifully without ever corroding under just about any condition.
It’s is designed for people who love espresso, milk foams, milk every day, good coffee. The machine has a removable milk reservoir that makes it easy to fill with any type of dairy product or creamer.
It also includes the traditional cup tray that adjusts to fit tall or short mugs. Designed with plenty of cool features like an automatic frother, the Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse Espresso Maker and Cappuccino Machine is perfect for all your early-morning morning caffeine needs!
PROS
+ Six buttons instead of three.
+ Water tank and level are more visible.
+ Clean look design
+ Milk container accessibility.
CONS
+ No measuring lines on milk
+ The froth tube can no longer be separated.
7. De’Longhi 15 bar Pump Espresso Maker, EC702, Metal
FEATURES:
- The appliance is easy to use and maintain.
- You can make a variety of drinks with the frothier.
- The espresso tastes great and has perfect crema.
The De’Longhi 15 bar Pump Espresso Maker is the perfect balance of convenience and performance to make everything from cappuccinos, lattes and Americanos to espresso and café lungo at home.
The pump driven machine has a stainless steel body for durability while it’s dual thermostat makes sure your coffee stays warm during brewing or steaming. With an easy-to-read water level indicator, changing the removable water tanks couldn’t be easier.
An On/Off switch assures you can stop your espress if needed without losing heat; never install in any environments where the temperature doesn’t exceed 32 degrees Fahrenheit since freezing will damage the appliance.
PROS
+ Machine heats up very fast.
+ Easy to wipe down and clean.
+ Water reservoir is big enough to limit constant need to fill it.
+ Easy maintenance.
+ Large water tank.
CONS
– Doesn’t come with cups.
– Steam wand is functional but weak, so it takes longer to get the milk hot.
8. Cuisinart EM-200NP1 Programmable 15-Bar Espresso Maker
FEATURES:
- The espresso maker is durable and easy to clean.
- It has a large reservoir, so you can make more coffee before refilling it.
- Makes espresso drinks like a pro.
- Espresso maker is programmable for single or double shots.
Cuisinart’s EM-200NP1 Programmable 15-Bar Espresso Maker is the perfect option for any avid coffee drinker who runs out of time before having their morning cup.
The espresso maker comes with a powerful 15 bars of pressure for rich, robust taste and includes an easy to use programmable system that can brew cups in 1 or 2 shots.
With stainless steel material, this sleek espresso maker also has a separate steam button function that makes cappuccino and latte making foolproof. Other perks include BPA free materials, removable reservoir and drip tray cover for easy cleaning/disposal of wet grounds after use.
Get authentic espresso made with a 15-bar pump and a stainless-steel steam nozzle that can turn your cup of coffee into a frothy cappuccino or latte. The 64 ounce reservoir is removable so you have easy access to water, and it has a warming tray on top to keep your drink warm!
PROS
+ Easy to clean.
+ Very esthetically appealing machine.
+ Allows for single, double, or pod espresso.
+ Quick heating.
+ Water reservoir is big enough for a few espressos and steaming.
CONS
– Steaming/frothing wand is too low.
9. Saeco Vapore Automatic Espresso Machine, X-Small, BlackSaeco Vapore Automatic Espresso Machine, X-Small, Black
FEATURES:
- Less time spent on maintenance.
- Simple to use and clean.
- Energy efficient mode.
The Saeco Vapore Automatic Espresso Machine, X-Small is a professional machine manufactured for taking care of all your coffee needs.
No matter the size of your operation or if you are a novice, this espresso machine features simple and easy-to-use controls that allow you to get quick results.
The removable brewing unit makes it very easy to rinse and replace, while the ceramic burr grinder preserves aroma without overheating the beans. In addition, maintenance is made simple with two programmable buttons that also have an auto energy saving mode.
This espresso maker’s small footprint ensures that it will be perfect in any space from small kitchens to offices.
PROS
+ One-click removable brewer
+ Easy to clean.
+ Nice grinder.
+ Great stream quality.
CONS
– Small water tank.
– No cup warmer
10. De’Longhi ECP3420 Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine, 15″, Black
FEATURES:
- You can make your coffee with the touch of a button.
- The machine is easy to use and has an adjustable height for different cups.
- It’s perfect for making lattes, cappuccinos.
The De’Longhi ECP3420 Bar Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine, 15″, Black is a 1100 watt machine with professional pressure that provides quality results in seconds. Its maximum height can accommodate cups up to 5 inches.
It comes equipped with double filters to give you the best-quality espresso drinks possible. With three easy steps (and your favorite ground coffee), this machine will be well worth it for any avid coffee drinker looking to make their morning commute or workday less mundane.
PROS
+ The warming plate gets hot!.
+ Steaming wand works well.
+ Espresso comes out consistent and tastes great.
+ This machine is very easy to use.
+ The water tank is a large size and easy to clean.
CONS
– The steam wand makes it difficult to froth milk
– Double shot basket is too small
Buying Guides
1. Importance of buying the right espresso machine for you
The first step is to establish what you are looking for in an espresso machine. There are hundreds of brands and styles out there, so it’s essential to identify your needs before making a purchase.
The price range can also be quite broad, starting at around $40-$60, but the best quality options are more expensive. After you’ve made a list of your requirements, you can begin looking at specific models and brands.
2. Types of Espresso Machines
The most common types of espresso machines are: the Super Automatic Espresso Machine, Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines and Manual Espresso Machines. The differences between these appliances is based on how they function and how much input (if any) you will need to make your shots of espresso.
Super Automatic Espresso Machines – These machines are extremely quick and easy to use. You place your coffee grounds in the filter, attach it to the machine, press a button or two and out comes an espresso! The system takes care of grind settings, shot volumes etc, so all you have to do is fill your cup with milk for cappuccinos or other hot beverages.
The main downside is that these machines tend to be quite bulky, as they accommodate a large grinder and water reservoir. In addition, the price of Super Automatic Espresso Machines can be as much as ten times as much as Manual Espresso Machines!
Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines – Semi-Automatic espresso machines are quite popular among novice baristas and coffee lovers. You add your coffee grounds to the filter, attach it to the machine and press a button or two – just like with Super Automatic Espresso Machines. However, these appliances do not automate anything else such as grinding settings, shot volumes etc. This means you can experiment with different techniques and recipes to produce tasty shots!
Manual Espresso Machines – If you are really serious about coffee then this is the way to go! Manual espresso machines require more effort on your part. Things like grinding your coffee beans, tamping (pressing down) the coffee grounds and pulling your shots require some training or previous knowledge. However, they do allow more control over things like volume, pressure and temperature – which give better results in the end.
5. Things to consider before purchasing an espresso machine
Coffee quality – high quality espresso machines tend to produce much better shots. Ensure your espresso maker has good reviews for taste, and you can even experiment with different beans or roasts if you have the time.
Durability – how well does your machine hold up over extended periods of use? A reliable espresso machine will last for years if treated well.
Price – this is a very important consideration! Ensure you get the best value for money, and don’t overspend on features that you simply won’t use. Look at reviews from other users to help guide you towards a price range that suits your needs.
Size – If your kitchen is small then be sure to choose an espresso machine that is smaller and less bulky than some other models.
Type – Semi-automatic or manual? Super automatic or standard? Different machines function in different ways, so it’s good to understand the options available before making a purchase. After all, you don’t want to buy something and find out you don’t need all the features it has to offer!
6. Tips for using your new Espresso Machine
– Clean your machine regularly, as coffee residue can build up and damage the appliance.
– Grind your own beans for maximum freshness. Fill your grinder to capacity each time you use it for evenly ground coffee.
– Keep an eye on the pressure gauge – if it is consistently low or high then there may be a problem with your machine.
– Use the right grind size for your machine – too coarse and it won’t extract properly, too fine and it might get blocked! Experiment to find the perfect setting that works best with your particular espresso maker.
– Freshly roasted beans are crucial for a delicious shot of espresso. If you don’t have time to roast beans then buy them in small batches and use them up quickly.
– Use filtered water for the best results! If necessary, add a pinch of salt to improve your espresso’s taste.
FAQs
Q: How do you clean an espresso machine?
A: Unplug the machine and take it apart, then wipe down the pieces. Take out the tray and wipe out any buildup in there with warm water and a vinegar solution. Also clean off any elastic bands or hair ties that might be in there. Rinse everything until all residues are gone and dry everything thoroughly before reassembling it.
Q: How long does a filter last for in an espresso machine?
A: Filters last about two days under normal use – depending on the machine and how hard you like to push your buttons. If they seem too dark and icky, clean them with a little water or white vinegar. Chances are though that it’s time for a new filter!
Q: How many cups of coffee can I make from one scoop of ground coffee beans?
A: An average scoop of coffee grounds produces about 5 ounces or 140 grams of espresso. If you make a single shot, this is considered 4-fluid ounces. A double shot ranges from 8 to 9 fluid ounces and a triple, 12 to 13 fluid ounces.
Conclusion
If you are truly dedicated to the process of brewing your daily cup, then investing in an espresso machine will help take things to another level. However, it is not necessary when starting out with making good coffee! Manual Espresso Machines require more effort on your part, but produce amazing results in the end. Automatic Espresso Machines are quick and easy to use, but lack the control of other machines.
No matter which option you choose, it’s important to learn about your new appliance and experiment with techniques that work best for you. There are plenty of resources online that provide detailed instructions on how to get started. Happy Brewing!
Further reading:
Best Burr Grinders Under 100 Review
Top 7 Coffee Makers under $200 Review 2021