In this article we are reviewing the best espresso machines under 200 dollars.
Finding the right espresso machine for your coffee set-up can feel overwhelming. Not only are there so many options out there to choose from, but many of the most popular high-quality espresso machines cost upwards of $500.
Luckily, there are plenty of fantastic espresso machines that you can buy on a budget. From small, compact portable espresso makers to more heavy-duty, automatic machines, you can find something that meets your espresso needs for under $200.
I’ve been a coffee drinker for a long time, and I know how important finding the right coffee machine can be. Whether I’m enjoying a sweet latte or just sipping some espresso to wake up in the morning, having the perfect espresso machine is an essential part of my morning routine.
That’s why I tested some of the most popular espresso machines under $200 on the market today to help you find which choice is right for you.
After trying ten different espresso makers, I found that the Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker is the best overall product. With an easy-to-use control panel, high-quality espresso, and a huge range of practical features, this machine has something to satisfy every coffee drinker.
While Mr. Coffee offers the best quality overall, this choice might not be for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner espresso maker or an experienced at-home barista, this list has an espresso machine designed to fit your needs.
Keep reading for your guide to the best espresso machine under $200.
Product Mini-Reviews
Here’s everything you need to know about some of the best espresso machines on a budget to help you make the right purchase for you.
Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker – Best Overall
Pros:
- The one-touch control panel is easy to use
- Three-in-one design offers high versatility
- Convenient and easy to clean
- Brews strong, high-quality espresso
Cons:
- The stainless steel design, while durable, is heavy and takes up counter space
- Higher cost than alternative espresso machine options
If you’re looking for a high-quality espresso machine on a budget, Mr. Coffee’s Espresso and Cappuccino Maker is the best option on the market. As a highly trusted and reputable company, Mr. Coffee consistently offers durable and convenient products with espresso that tastes just as good as at your local cafe.
At under $200, it can be challenging to find heavy-duty espresso machines that are guaranteed to last. Mr. Coffee Espresso Machines are made from stainless steel as opposed to the more common plastic design, so you can enjoy everyday use for a long time.
This espresso machine uses a 15-bar pump system to deliver the perfect pressure for rich, bold-tasting espresso. The semi-automatic three-in-one design also makes it simple to create a huge variety of strong espresso drinks.
Whether you’re looking for a convenient way to make just espresso shots, lattes, or cappuccinos, Mr. Coffee’s Espresso Machine is the best choice for creating delicious custom drinks. And with the attached automatic milk-frother, it’s easy to get the perfect cafe-quality drink every time.
While all these additional features are a huge plus, what really sets this espresso machine apart is just how easy it is to use. All you have to do is use the one-touch control panel to customize your drink and choose a single or double shot espresso. Once you activate the machine, you can just sit back and wait for your espresso to brew.
Once you’ve made your drink, clean-up is just as easy. The machine comes with a self-cleaning style so it stays clean and ready to use, while the removable water and milk reservoirs add even more convenience and functionality.
De’Longhi 15 Bar Espresso Maker – Best Value for Your Money
Pros:
- Accommodates single shots, double shots, or pods
- Includes a convenient and multi-functional cappuccino system
- Compact, stainless steel design looks sophisticated without taking up space
- Lower cost for numerous unique features and high-quality espresso
Cons:
- Some elements and controls are less straight-forward and automatic
- Smaller water tank
The De’Longhi 15 Bar Espresso Machine with Advanced Cappuccino System offers a huge variety of features at an affordable price, making it the runner-up for best espresso machine under $200 and providing the most value for your money.
Like Mr. Coffees Espresso Machine, this product has a 15 bar pressure system that ensures authentic high-quality espresso that suits your taste. No matter what you’re making, from an espresso shot to a latte or cappuccino, the adjustable controls allow you to modify your drink to suit your personal preferences.
The three-in-one filter holder adds even more variety when you’re making your morning espresso. There’s a spot for one espresso shot, two espresso shots, or a unit for an easy-serve espresso pod. And if you need a large-sized espresso drink to get you through the day, the bottom drip tray is adjustable or removable to accommodate larger cups.
The advanced cappuccino system comes with several unique benefits that earned this espresso machine a top spot on this list. The system maintains the espresso maker’s temperature so you don’t have to wait between cups and includes a manual frother that mixes and steams your milk to give your morning drinks the perfect smooth texture.
The drip tray and water tank are also both easily removable and dishwasher safe, making for easy clean-up. And with a sleek stainless-steel design, this machine both looks great and is designed with durability in mind. While this machine doesn’t have the simplicity of a one-touch control panel, it’s a great alternative if you’re looking for a basic espresso machine at an affordable price.
Klarstein Passionata Espresso and Cappuccino Machine – Best for Beginner Espresso Makers
Pros:
- 20 bars of pressure
- Simple and easy-to-use control system
- Removable stainless-steel components for easy clean-up
- Includes a high-powered steaming nozzle for cappuccinos, lattes, cortados, and more
Cons:
- Includes rubber and plastic components that are less durable than stainless-steel
- Fewer customization options for drinks
With a single large control dial and intuitive design, the Klarstein Passionata Espresso and Cappuccino Machine is perfect for anyone that doesn’t want a complicated interface and a huge range of customization options. If you’re looking for a simple and quick way to enjoy your morning espresso, latte, or cappuccino, this might be the best machine for you.
The 20 bars of pressure produce espresso with a bold, high-quality taste, while the multifunctional steam nozzle froths your milk to the perfect creamy texture.
The nozzle can be easily adjusted so you can create a range of delicious espresso drinks that suit your preferences. The large water tank also allows you to make cup after cup without having to remove and refill the machine.
The biggest benefit, however, is in the simplicity of the design. You can use the large control dial to choose between brewing espresso or frothing milk, while red and green LED lights show you when the machine is ready for use.
No matter how much experience you have making espresso drinks, this machine is a fool-proof way to make cafe-quality beverages from your home. The removable drip tray and nozzle attachment add even more practicality during clean-up.
Other features include a stainless-steel finish, a sleek and compact design, slip-resistant rubber pads, single or double espresso shot filters, and pod compatibility.
Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Espresso Machine by Breville – Best for Pods
Pros:
- Simple one-touch design
- Centrifusion technology automatically adjusts brewing parameters
- Energy-saving design
- Large variety of size and flavor options
Cons:
- Only compatible with Nespresso Pods, which can become costly
- Fewer options for specialty drinks
Espresso pods are a fantastic way to quickly make a delicious single-serve espresso drink. If you prefer an espresso machine that’s compatible with pods as opposed to ground coffee, Nespresso machines are always a high-quality and reliable choice.
One of the biggest benefits of the Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Espresso Machine is its simplicity. It uses a smart, automatic one-touch design to brew the perfect espresso shot. All you have to do is put your preferred Nespresso pod into the machine and press a single button.
The blend-specific brewing technology can read the barcode of the capsule and adjust the coffee size, temperature, pressure, and brewing time based on your desired drink.
Despite the machine’s simplicity, it offers a surprising amount of choices and versatility for your beverage. You can make a single or double espresso shot, as well as a 5oz or 8oz coffee. And with a heat-up time of only 15-20 seconds, you won’t have to wait long for your caffeine in the morning.
When you’re done making your espresso shots, the machine automatically shuts off after 9 minutes of inactivity to help save energy.
The machine also comes with a large removable water tank, capsule storage, and a compact, space-saving design. While the plastic build of the machine may not be as durable as its stainless steel competitors, it creates a convenient lightweight machine that can fit perfectly on your countertop.
De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine – Best on a Budget Espresso Machines
Pros:
- Affordable cost
- Integrated milk frother
- Uses a combination of stainless steel and plastic parts maintains quality without raising costs
- Comes with a one-year warranty
Cons:
- Plastic components are less consistent and reliable
- Less automatic features than alternatives
With a huge range of practical features and a price of under $100, the De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine is hard to beat when you’re looking for authentic, cafe-quality espresso on a budget.
Like many of the other more expensive machines on this list, the De’Longhi Stilosa comes with a 15 bar pump to create the perfect pressure for a bold, rich-tasting espresso.
Despite its low cost, the multifunctional design makes it easy to brew espresso shots or make a delicious latte, cappuccino, and more. There’s also a manual milk frother to help you achieve the perfect texture for your drinks.
There are several different ways to customize the brewing process to meet your needs. The included portafilter can accommodate a single or double espresso shot, while the adjustable two-level cup holder allows you to modify the amount of espresso to best suit your drink preferences.
The machine includes a variety of plastic components, which help keep the price low while incorporating stainless steel elements for additional durability and reliability. Although the De’Longhi Stilosa is built to last, the one-year warranty is a huge plus when purchasing this espresso maker.
Along with all the practical features, the matte black finish also looks great and fits right in on any modern kitchen countertop.
Nespresso Pixie Espresso Machine – Best Compact Machine
Pros:
- High-pressure 19-bar pump
- Ultra-compact space-saving design doesn’t take up limited counter space
- Quick heat-up time
- Easy to use one-touch control system
Cons:
- Only compatible with Nespresso pods
- Doesn’t come with a milk frother for specialty espresso drinks
If you’re searching for a convenient way to make espresso from the comfort of your home without sacrificing counter space, you can’t go wrong with Nespresso’s compact automatic espresso machine. The Pixie comes with a sleek aluminum build and weighs just 7 pounds, making it a perfect choice for any espresso drinker with limited kitchen space.
Even with its small, compact size, this espresso machine offers plenty of functionality. It uses a high-pressure 19 bar pump to deliver strong and aromatic espresso and includes a quick heat-up system that can reach the optimal temperature in just 25 seconds.
This espresso maker is another great choice for anyone who values simplicity when making their morning coffee. It uses a one-touch system with two cup options – espresso and lungo – to make the process as easy as possible.
Other key features include a folding drip tray, a red backlight for an empty water tank alert, and an automatic power-off function to help you save energy.
Keep in mind that the Nespresso Pixie Espresso Machine is only compatible with Nespresso pods. While these can get expensive over time, your purchase does include a welcome pack of 16 capsules to get you started and allow you to sample a variety of Nespresso flavors.
Gevi 15-Bar Espresso Coffee Maker – Best for Specialty Drinks
Pros:
- Temperature controlled frothing and brewing
- Professional manual milk frothing steam wand for more advanced specialty drinks
- Durable, high-quality stainless steel design
- Comes with a heated cup holder
Cons:
- Fewer automatic features than similar semi-automatic espresso machines
- The larger, heavy-duty design isn’t ideal for limited counter space
For anyone who wants to channel their inner barista from their home, the Gevi 15-Bar Espresso Coffee Maker is an excellent espresso machine option.
Whether you want to enjoy a latte, cappuccino, macchiato, iced espresso drink, or just a simple espresso shot, this semi-automatic machine offers a huge range of features that make it easy to create delicious specialty drinks. The 15 bar high-pressure pump produces flavorful espresso with rich crema, while the two-in-one portafilter allows you to make two cups of espresso at once.
The powerful frothing wand is perfect for creating customized drinks, and the adjustable temperature-controlled frothing can help you achieve the ideal texture and taste for your favorite espresso beverage.
The Gevi Espresso Maker includes a range of other features designed for convenience, including brewing temperature control, a fast 25-second brewing time, a removable water tank and drip tray for easy clean-up, and a warming tray to help keep your coffee at the perfect temperature when it’s done brewing.
The stainless steel design is engineered to both look stylish and offer additional durability with everyday household use. The interface is also user-friendly, with just two buttons and a large control dial. Despite its simple design, The unique features offer plenty of opportunity for customization as you try out new cafe-quality specialty drinks.
Flair Espresso Maker – Best Manual Espresso Machine
Pros:
- Uses a simple manual process to deliver professional-tasting handcrafted espresso
- Durable aluminum and stainless steel construction
- Portable and comes with a carrying case
- Includes a three-year warranty
Cons:
- Purchase of a burr grinder is required before use
- Takes more time to produce espresso
While most of the top espresso makers under $200 utilize a semi-automatic design, there are also plenty of completely manual espresso machine options that produce espresso that tastes just as good as what you can find at your local cafe. If a manual espresso maker sounds like the right fit for you, the Flair Espresso Maker is one of the best options on the market.
This plug-free espresso maker comes with a detachable bottomless two-in-one portafilter that can make up to 40 ml of espresso. With just your favorite coffee beans and some boiling water, you can handcraft your perfect drink without any buttons or extra complicated steps.
One of the biggest draws of a fully manual espresso maker is the simplicity of its design. Once you grind up your coffee beans you just place the beans and water into the portafilter, insert it into the frame, and pull the lever press. This produces flavorful, creamy espresso that’s guaranteed to satisfy any coffee drinker.
Along with the incredible tasting espresso, the Flair Espresso Maker stands out from other manual options with a strong, durable design. It’s made from reinforced aluminum and stainless steel, creating a sturdy structure that can last for years. And just in case Flair doesn’t live up to this promise, both the stainless steel brewing head and aluminum lever press come with a three-year warranty.
The unique, lightweight design is a great addition to any kitchen, and the detachable brewing head adds extra convenience when you’re cleaning the machine. It’s also extremely portable, and even includes a custom padded carrying case for safe and easy transportation.
Before you get started with the Flair Espresso Maker, you will need to purchase a burr coffee grinder. Once you have everything you need, however, this espresso maker allows you to make delicious high-quality drinks with a simple and convenient process.
Wacaco Picopresso – Best for On-The-Go Espresso Drinkers
Pros:
- Small portable size for easy transportation
- Can brew a double shot of its signature authentic espresso
- Stainless steel and metal construction is built to last
- Comes with a protective carrying case
Cons:
- The precise brewing process isn’t for beginner baristas
- Relies on fresh ultra-fine coffee grounds for best results
Another fantastic manual espresso maker option, the Wacaco Picopress is designed for espresso drinkers that are on the go. This compact, portable brewer might take more precision and technique than more automatic espresso machines, but the creamy and aromatic espresso it produces rivals the espresso you can find in any local cafe.
At just .77 pounds, it’s easy to carry the Picopresso with you wherever you go. It’s even paired with a protective case, making this the perfect travel-sized coffee maker.
Despite its tiny size, however, the strong metals and stainless steel filter basket offer complete reliability. It also consistently delivers delicious high-quality espresso shots with great crema and bold flavors and can accommodate up to a full double shot.
Getting this professional extraction does require a bit more work, including adjusting the grind size and mastering different brewing techniques. Without an ultra-fine grind, it can be more challenging to achieve the creamy, rich texture of cafe-quality espresso.
Hamilton Beach Espresso Machine, Latte, and Cappuccino Machine with Milk Frother – Best for an Easy Clean-Up
Pros:
- Hassle-free set-up and clean-up
- The patented slide and lock technology makes it easy to use
- Compatible with coffee grounds or capsules
- Includes a cup warmer
Cons:
- The plastic design offers less durability
- Doesn’t produce rich crema with the espresso as reliably as other machines
Hamilton Beach is one of the most trusted and recognizable brands when it comes to kitchen appliances, and with their practical, easy-to-use, and reliable espresso machine, it’s easy to see why. Not only does their espresso, latte, and cappuccino machine produce delicious cafe-style espresso, but it’s designed to maximize convenience and simplicity to prevent any hassle when making your morning espresso.
This espresso machine uses 15 bars of pressure for extraction, creating high-quality espresso that tastes great on its own or in a bold, creamy espresso or latte. If you do enjoy making more specialty drinks, the swiveling steam wand can steam and froth your milk to your preferred temperature and texture.
One feature that really makes the Hamilton Beach Espresso Machine stand out is its unique slide and lock technology. All you have to do is fill the portafilter with coffee, slide it into place, and use the dial to select different espresso or steam functions.
This patented technology creates a much easier set-up than other more complicated machines, so you can enjoy your drinks stress-free. And with an integrated cup warmer, you can keep your mugs at the ideal temperature until you’re ready to relax and sip your espresso.
Along with a hassle-free setup, this machine is designed for a simple and easy clean-up. The water reservoir and drip tray are both removable, while the plastic exterior can just be wiped down with a cloth.
For even more versatility, the Hamilton Beach Espresso Machine is compatible with both pods and ground coffee, so you can truly customize the flavor and aroma of your espresso.
Buying Guide
With so many different styles and features out there, how do you know which espresso machine is best for you?
Here are some key factors to keep in mind as you’re considering your purchase.
Style
There are three main types of espresso machines you’ll see while you’re shopping around – semi-automatic, manual, or super-automatic. Here’s all the information you’ll need to know when deciding between these three options.
Semi-automatic
When looking for espresso machines on a budget, the most common type you’ll run across is a semi-automatic machine. Semi-automatic espresso makers offer convenience while still allowing you to control and customize various aspects of your drink.
With semi-automatic machines, you’ll have to manually fill the portafilter and activate the machine. Once you turn on the brew system, however, the machine takes care of most of the work for you, including heating the water and using a pressure system to extract the espresso.
Semi-automatic espresso machines, such as the Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Maker and De’Longhi 15 bar espresso maker, are generally easy to use, reliable, and offer more opportunities to control the flavor and texture of your drink. While they may require some practice and adjustments, semi-automatic machines are a convenient option when looking to make specialty hand-crafted drinks from home.
Manual
While less common than semi-automatic machines, manual espresso makers are another great way to produce high-quality and flavorful espresso shots. Manual options on this list include the Flair Espresso Maker and the Wacaco Picopresso.
These espresso makers don’t use any electricity and instead rely on a 100% human-powered lever system to produce quality espresso.
This requires a lot more steps than semi-automatic machines but also provides more control over the flavor, aroma, and extraction of the flavor.
Because manual espresso makers require more technique and knowledge of espresso extraction, beginner at-home baristas or anyone looking for a simple and convenient machine may prefer one of the semi-automatic options instead.
Super-automatic
Super-automatic machines truly do all the work for you when brewing espresso. Once the machine is filled with the beans and water, you can simply press a button and wait for it to deliver your drink.
While this allows you to relax and step away from the machine as it makes your coffee, it also limits your control and customization options.
Super-automatic espresso machines are also extremely rare in this price range. If you’re looking for a product under $200, semi-automatic or manual machines are likely to be a better choice.
Ease of Use
If you want simplicity and convenience from your coffee machine, you’ll want to ensure that the interface is intuitive and user-friendly.
Many budget-friendly espresso machines come with a simple dial or one-touch control system. This ensures that you can enjoy your drink exactly the way you prefer it without a complicated process or unnecessary steps.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
To ensure that your espresso machine lasts a long time, it’s essential to keep up with the cleaning and maintenance.
Machines with removable components such as water tanks and drip trays are easy to keep clean, making clean-up after every use hassle-free.
Some espresso makers even include a self-cleaning cycle for even easier machine maintenance.
Durability
While plastic construction can help keep the cost of a product down, you want to make sure that you’re not sacrificing quality and durability for a lower cost.
There are plenty of espresso machines under $200 that are made from heavy-duty stainless steel, metals, or a combination of these high-quality materials and plastic. By purchasing a durable option, you can save money in the long run by ensuring that your machine lasts even with consistent everyday use.
Conclusion
Overall, if you’re looking for the best espresso machine under $200, Mr. Coffee’s Espresso and Cappuccino Maker is the way to go.
However, if you’re looking for an alternative to meet your specific preferences, you can create fantastic and delicious espresso drinks with any option from this list. These budget-friendly products are the perfect way to enjoy cafe-style drinks from the comfort of your own kitchen.
No matter what you’re looking for in an espresso setup, these espresso machines will help you relax as you enjoy your ideal customizable drink every morning.