In this article, we discuss in detail and review the best espresso machines under $500 as per our research with our baristas.
How passionate are you about espresso? A sleek, cutting-edge espresso machine should be a must-have in every home. Instead of going to a coffee shop, prepare your own gourmet espresso at home. When you have the privilege of having an espresso machine, indulge in the robust, rich, and silky-smooth texture of espresso at home and make an excuse to enjoy a wonderful experience every day.
I tried and tested multiple machines with our team of baristas and found that Beville Espresso Machine was the best overall though its above 500 dollars but I believe it best you can get in the market.
You can also look at our best manual espresso machine list.
Best Espresso Machines Under 500 Dollars You Can Buy
1. Breville Espresso Machine
The newest Breville model replaces the 830, and Breville made sure that the heating system controlled the water temperature precisely this time. A 1600-watt Thermo coil heating system ensures that your espresso is served hot. Single and double shots are available, and the machine includes extra-tall cup clearance for brewing directly into travel cups. There’s a specialized hot water faucet and a huge portable water tank with a capacity of 61 ounces.
The pre-infusion feature, which pre-wets the grounds for complete extraction, was one of our favorites. A steam milk frother is incorporated, which can produce creamy micro-foam. This machine also has power-saving features, including a one-hour sleep mode and a three-hour auto shut-off. Overall, this is the greatest espresso machine under $700 available this year.
Features and Benefits:
The Breville Barista Express delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is part of the Barista Series that offers all in one espresso machines with an integrated grinder to go from beans to espresso in under one minute
DOSE CONTROL GRINDING: Integrated precision conical burr grinder grinds on-demand to deliver the right amount of freshly ground coffee directly into the portafilter for your preferred taste with any roast of bean
OPTIMAL WATER PRESSURE: Low-pressure pre-infusion gradually increases pressure at the start and helps ensure all the flavors are drawn out evenly during the extraction for a balanced tasting cup
PRECISE ESPRESSO EXTRACTION: Digital temperature control (PID) delivers water at precisely the right temperature, ensuring optimal espresso extraction
MANUAL MICROFOAM MILK TEXTURING: The powerful steam wand performance allows you to hand texture microfoam milk that enhances flavor and enables the creation of latte art
ESPRESSO MACHINE WITH GRIND SIZE DIAL: Simple and intuitive, giving you control over the grind size no matter what type of bean you’re grinding
ESPRESSO MAKER WITH BUILT-IN COFFEE GRINDER: Innovative grinding cradle allows any at-home barista to grind directly into the espresso portafilter for the perfect espresso
INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 54mm Stainless Steel Portafilter, 1 & 2 cup Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Coffee Scoop, Integrated Tamper, Stainless Steel Milk Jug, Cleaning Disc, Tablets, Brush Tool & Allen Key, Water Filter & Filter Holder
CAPACITY & SETTINGS: 1 by 2 lb Bean Hopper; 67 oz Water Tank; Single or double shots; Adjustable grind amount and Manual override
WARRANTY: 1 Year Limited Product Warranty; Power: 1600 Watts; Voltage: 120 Volts
Pros
Pre-infusion function for even extraction
Removable water tank with large capacity
1600-watt Thermo coil heating system accurately controls water temperature
Makes single and double shots
Comes with an assortment of accessories
The machine goes into a power-saving mode after one hour
Auto shut-off after three hours
Microfoam milk texturing
Cons
If the machine breaks after warranty, it’s expensive to repair
The only issue we discover with this model is that if parts fail after the one-year guarantee period has expired, Breville charges a fixed price of $249 to repair the machine. This is certainly rather costly. The steam ring, which simply wears out over time and costs only $2.99 to repair, is the most common component that has to be changed.
Everything you need for barista-quality coffee in a little package. In less than a minute, you can get from bean to espresso. In a few minutes, you can make delicious espresso. The Barista Express enables you to grind the beans directly before extraction, and with replaceable filters and the option of automated or manual operation, you can achieve true café-style results in no time.
2.Delonghi DEDICA Pump Espresso Maker
The New Dedica Espresso Maker makes the ideal espresso, latte, or cappuccino at home, all while taking up only 6 inches of counter space. It is made of strong stainless steel and contains buttons for automated flow stops. It also has thermo block technology, allowing the machine to heat up and be ready in 35 seconds.
The new Cappuccino Frother makes barista-quality froth for your favorite milk-based espresso beverages. If the water tank is not inserted properly when in use, it may leak a few drops of water; thus, ensuring that the water tank is securely in place. To avoid clogging the nozzle with milk, clean it and press the steam button before rotating the steam knob.
Features and Benefits:
EVERY CUP TO YOUR LIKING: 15-bar professional pressure assures quality results every time, and adjustable controls allow you to make modifications for your personal taste preferences. NOTE: Kindly descale the unit so that it is clean and can function properly.
EASY TO CLEAN: Removable water tank and drip tray make for easy cleanup, and the parts are dishwasher safe.
BREW LIKE A PRO: Whatever your preference – single or double espresso, cappuccino or latte – the machine brews authentic barista-quality beverages just like you enjoy at your favorite coffeehouse.
YOUR FOAM, YOUR WAY: A manual frother mixes steam and milk to create a rich, creamy froth for evenly textured drinks – just the way you like them.
EASY TO USE: The machine does most of the work for you. The Automatic Flow Stop feature dispenses just the right amount of espresso while maintaining the ideal brewing temperature.
ONE ESPRESSO SHOT OR TWO. The three-in-one filter holder, included with the unit, has a holder for one espresso shot, a holder for two shots, and one for an easy-serve espresso pod – whatever your preference.
NO WAITING BETWEEN CUPS: The Advanced Cappuccino System maintains the optimal temperature so you can brew cup after cup instantly.
ACCOMMODATES TALLER CUPS: If you’d prefer a larger size beverage, no problem. The bottom tray of the unit is easy to adjust or remove to fit taller cups.
SLEEK SPACE-SAVING DESIGN: With a sleek profile, compact design and narrow footprint, each model fits beautifully on a kitchen countertop – without taking up too much space.
CONVENIENT WATER TANK: The water tank is simple to remove, refill and reattach, and the water level is easily visible to eliminate the guesswork. PACKAGING May Vary
Pros
Stainless steel
Only six inches wide
Easy to use
Drip tray accommodates larger cup sizes
15 bars of pump pressure
Manual frother
Three-in-one filter holder for one shot, two shots, or espresso pod
Cons
Leaks over time
Quality and longevity issues
If you’re on a budget and you need a machine that won’t take up a lot of space in your kitchen, Delonghi’s Dedica Espresso Machine is a perfect option. Although it is barely six inches broad, it employs 15 bars of pressure. It is built of high-quality stainless steel rather than plastic and is simple to use. This model comes with a milk frother and an adjustable drip tray to suit taller cups despite its modest size. The filter holder may contain enough grounds for one or two shots, or an espresso pod can be used. Sadly, the machine has a few problems with the quality. The water pump doesn’t take long to malfunction or leak, so purchasing an extended warranty may be a smart option to safeguard your investment.
3.Breville ‘Duo Temp Pro’ Espresso Machine
Balanced flavors begin with an even extraction utilizing low-pressure pre-infusion, similar to commercial equipment. The perfect mix of sweetness, acidity, and bitterness is essential for an excellent tasting espresso or cappuccino. The Duo-Temp Pro allows you to make third-wave specialty coffee at home.
This is a less costly version of our top selection because this Breville espresso machine does not have as many options. It’s built of stainless steel and employs 15 bars of pressure to produce a nice quantity of crema in espresso. The exact PID temperature control ensures that the water stays hot, and the pre-infusion mechanism wets the grounds before extraction.
Features and Benefits:
The Breville Duo Temp Pro lets you create third wave specialty coffee at home; This espresso machine ensures balanced flavors from even extraction using low pressure pre-fusion, managing sweetness, acidity and bitterness for the perfect cup every time
PRECISE ESPRESSO EXTRACTION: Low pressure pre-infusion helps ensure all the flavors are drawn out evenly during the extraction for a balanced tasting cup
WATER TEMPERATURE: The 1600W Thermocoil–Integrated stainless steel water path accurately controls water temperature
MANUAL MICROFOAM MILK TEXTURING: A high power 1600W element delivers sufficient steam to create microfoam that enhances flavor and enables you to produce latte art at home
AUTO PURGE: The Duo-Temp Pro Espresso Machine automatically purges the heat system after steaming, ensuring your next espresso is extracted at the right temperature
MAINTENANCE INDICATOR: Espresso Machine that lets you know when it needs a clean; The cleaning and drip tray alerts make routine maintenance low-maintenance
INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: Razor Dose Trimming Tool, 1 cup & 2 cup Single & Dual Wall Filter Baskets, Stainless Steel Milk Jug, Allen Key, Water Filter Holder and Water Filter
WARRANTY: 1 Year Limited Product Warranty; Power: 1600 Watts; Voltage: 110 to 120V Capacity: 61 oz Water Tank
Pros
Stainless steel
15 bars of pump pressure
61-ounce water tank
Single or double shot
Steam wand for steaming and frothing milk
Precise PID temperature control
Pre-infusion function for even extraction
Cons
No dedicated hot water faucet
No pressure gauge
Can be difficult to use
Because the water tank has a relatively big capacity of 61 ounces, you won’t have to replenish it as frequently. It makes a single or more espresso shot and comes with a steam wand connected. This model lacks a separate hot water faucet and a pressure gauge on the negative side. Due to the diversity in grind size, several grounds, and the inability to discern what pressure the machine is using, it can also be tough to figure out how to pull the perfect shot of espresso for your tastes.
4.Gaggia Brera Super Automatic Espresso Machine
The Gaggia Brera is a small but powerful super-automatic espresso and coffee maker that can produce anything from espresso to cappuccino. The Pannarello wand steams and foams milk until it is smooth and velvety, making it ideal for topping off lattes or preparing hot chocolate. With a height of only 12.4″ with a front-loading dreg drawer and water reservoir, the Gaggia Brera can easily fit beneath your kitchen cabinets while leaving plenty of counter space.
Features and Benefits:
FROTHING FOR MILK BEVERAGES: Pannarello wand frothing for cappuccinos & lattes. Wand doubles as a hot water dispenser for americanos & tea.
EASY ACCESS: The dregs drawer, drip tray, and water tank are all within reach and accessible from the front of the machine for quick and easy cleaning and maintenance.Volts:110V-120V
USER-FRIENDLY DISPLAY: Push-button controls and an LED display with illuminated icons make for an easy and intuitive experience.Watts:1250 W
RAPID STEAM TECHNOLOGY: Quick heat up times and robust brewing and steaming operations. Coffee bean capacity: 250 gms
1 YEAR WARRANTY: Hassle free 1 year warranty handled by Gaggia directly
Cup Height: 3.25” to 4.5”. Ensures maximum flavor and aroma extraction
Pros
Brew with either beans or pre-ground coffee
Programmable brewing
Pre-infusion
Both water reservoir and dreg box pull out from the front of machine
Steam on demand
Frothing wand doubles as hot water dispenser
Adjustable cup sizes
Cons
Leaks
One boiler
Water tank needs to be refilled often
High maintenance
This is an excellent choice for a fully automated espresso machine. With its ceramic burr grinder, the Gaggia Brera Super Automatic grinds whole beans, so all you need to do is input the coffee beans and water. It also accepts ground coffee, allowing you to avoid using the hopper. The brewer is completely programmed and comes in two sizes.
For bigger cups, the height may be adjusted. Pre-infusion allows the coffee to bloom, resulting in a richer shot of espresso. This type contains a frothing wand that also functions as a hot water distributor and steam on demand. We also like how the water reservoir and the dreg box slide out from the front of the unit for easy access.
Yet, we did run into a little issue with this machine. For starters, it requires a lot of upkeep. It must be descaled regularly, and the water tank must be refilled every day. It can also spill out onto the countertop, which can be difficult to clean. Furthermore, because it only has one boiler, you cannot steam milk and draw a shot of espresso simultaneously.
5.Nespresso Lattissima Touch Espresso Maker
Discover the ideal Creamy Latte in seconds with De’Longhi’s sophisticated automated foaming technology. The newly developed Lattissima Touch one-touch system is a must-have’ for Latte enthusiasts. With 6 one-touch button recipes, the Lattissima Touch provides great convenience for enjoying café-quality lattes and cappuccinos and Nespresso Coffee in capsule convenience at home.
This is the machine for you if you enjoy Nespresso and lattes. It contains a built-in milk frother and a milk carafe, allowing you to brew latte after latte with the touch of a button. It can produce six various espresso beverages, including macchiatos and cappuccinos. This type requires only 19 bars of pressure and is ready in about 40 seconds. It includes a sliding drip tray that adjusts to fit different cup sizes, a useful feature for preparing lattes. It also includes a descaling warning, and cleaning is simple.
Features and Benefits:
The perfect creamy latte: one button and one capsule – that’s all it takes to enjoy a barista-style latte in seconds. Only by DeLonghi
6 one-touch recipes: simple one-touch button for Coffee and milk lovers to prepare a creamy latte, latte macchiato, cappuccino, warm milk, perfect
Espresso or Coffee
Made in Italy: the lattissima touch’s sleek Italian craftsmanship look fantastic in any kitchen
Advanced milk frother by de’longhi: an automatic frother creates a rich, long-lasting, creamy foam
Practical design: sliding drip tray for different cup or glass sizes, removable milk container with rinsing function, illuminated buttons. Input power (W): 1400
19-Bar high-pressure pump ensures fast heat-up (in less than 40 seconds for milk-based recipes). easy insertion, automatic piercing, and brewing of capsules
Included Components: Lattissima Touch Single Serve Espresso Machine
Pros
Six one-touch drink options
Sliding drip tray for different cup or glass sizes
Removable milk carafe
Descaling-needed alert
19-bar pressure pump
Ready to pull a shot in less than 40 seconds
Cons
Uses only Nespresso pods
Cannot adjust settings for brewing
Nespresso pods are pricey
Not the best option for those who don’t like lattes
However, this machine only accepts Nespresso pods, limiting the varieties and brands of coffee available. The pods are also rather pricey, so that’s a continuous expense to be mindful of. You also can’t change any of the brewing settings, like you can with a semi-automatic espresso machine. If you don’t like milk with espresso, you should consider alternative solutions that don’t contain a specialized milk carafe since it’s a waste of money.
6.KitchenAid & Nespresso Espresso Maker Bundle
This new coffee package from two of the most famous names in the kitchen combines design and flavor. With just one pull of the button, this easy-to-use countertop barista provides cup after cup of rich, fragrant espresso thanks to an ingenious 19-bar pressure system carefully designed to bring out the best of Nespresso’s gourmet coffee capsules. The Aeroccino 3 milk frother is included in the bundle, so you may make a creamy smooth latte, foamy cappuccino, caffè macchiato, or your favorite coffee drink.
Features and Benefits:
Easy loading capsule system
Brew strength selector
All-Metal, die-cast construction
1.3-Liter Removable water tank
Includes milk frother
Pros
Available in different colors
Easy loading capsules
Included milk frother
Brew strength selector
Adjustable cup shelf
Cons
Doesn’t make espresso as well as machines made by Nespresso
Water reservoir difficult to remove
Uses Nespresso pods only
Nespresso pods can be pricey
If you don’t want to make lattes or cappuccinos with your Nespresso, this is the preferable option. It includes a milk frother but no specialized milk carafe like the Nespresso Lattissima. It comes in a choice of colors to complement any kitchen style and has a compact size, so it won’t take up much space on your countertop. There are six pre-programmed brew strength levels and an adjustable cup shelf to suit different cup sizes.
This machine does have a few drawbacks. Although KitchenAid is an excellent brand, it does not appear to produce espresso as well as Nespresso. It is also tough to remove and clean the water reservoir. Finally, this machine only works with Nespresso capsules, which might be expensive.
7.Saeco Vapore Automatic Espresso Machine
Sometimes simplicity is all that is required. With pared-back programmability and simple analog controls, the Saeco Xsmall goes a long way toward simplifying your daily cup of coffee. Its all-in-one grinder, brew unit, and dosage controls simplify mornings by eliminating the need to navigate menus or manually brew. With a swing-out Panarello steam arm that expands and textures milk for you, even milk-base cocktails are a dial-turn away. The Xsmall, with its small footprint and low price, provides a personalized coffee experience for anybody.
Features and Benefits:
Enjoy 3 beverages at your fingertips
Enjoy a great coffee with Auto-Rinse & guided descaling
Delicious milk froth thanks to the classic milk frother
Adjust the length and 5 grinder settings
Enjoy 2 cups at the same time with Double Cup function
Pros
Five-setting adjustable grinder
One-click removable brewer
Includes a milk frother
Cons
All plastic Poor quality
High maintenance
Overly sensit
Drip tray leaks
This is yet another fully automated espresso machine with a five-setting adjustable grinder. The brewer portion of the machine is detachable for simple cleaning. It also comes with a milk frother. Unfortunately, because this machine is primarily built of plastic, its quality is doubtful. It frequently believes that the water tank is empty when it is not or that there are no beans in the hopper when it is full. It’s also quite delicate and requires a lot of upkeep. Finally, the drip tray tends to leak.
8.EspressoWorks All-In-One Cappuccino & Espresso Machine
In just 45 seconds, the EspressoWorks All-In-One Barista Series Espresso & Cappuccino Maker is ready to use. This powerful machine will improve the quality of your espresso, cappuccino, and latte drinks. The 19 Bar Pump produces the ideal crema, and achieving a robust flavor has never been easier. EspressoWorks provides another low-cost alternative with a machine that includes various accessories and a built-in milk frother. It includes a 15-bar pressure pump and is ready to use in 45 seconds. The water tank is simply removed, allowing you to observe how much water is remaining.
Features and Benefits:
Includes: 19 Bar Pump Espresso, Cappuccino & Latte Maker, Electric Coffee Bean Grinder, Stainless Steel Portafilter with Single and Double Shot Filter Baskets, Milk Reservoir, Scoop/Tamper, 2 Double Walled Espresso Glasses, 2 Double Walled Cappuccino GlasESPRESSO MAKER ALL IN ONE SET – Easy to use 19 Bar Pump Machine with everything needs to become a true Barista
LATTE MACHINE WITH MILK FROTHER Built-in Removable Frother allows you to heat and froth milk to create cappuccinos and lattes.
SINGLE ESPRESSO SHOT or DOUBLE ESPRESSO SHOT- Two stainless steel portafilter baskets included for the option of pulling a single shot or a double shot during each extraction.
Pros
Ready to use in 45 seconds
Easy-view removable water tank
15-bar pressure pump
Cons
Watery, weak espresso
Questionable quality
Leaks
Difficult to use
Grinder clogs easily
Questionable durability
Unfortunately, this gadget has several flaws. One is that the espresso it makes isn’t of particularly great quality. The device leaks and appears to force water through the coffee grinds too quickly. The grinder, while convenient, clogs quickly. This machine’s general durability is unclear since it appears to have lifespan concerns. Because there are so many customizable options, determine how to produce the optimum cup for you.
Buyer’s Guide
When looking for an affordable espresso machine under $500, there are a few factors to keep in mind. In our shopping guide, we’ve given a list:
Built-In Milk Frother
Most espresso machines include a built-in milk frother for making a creamy cappuccino or latte from espresso. If you like your coffee with milk, this is a vital feature to have. For Milk-based drinks lovers.
Size of Machine
Probably you don’t have a lot of counter space in your kitchen, the size of the machine is crucial. Some of the makes on our list are sleeker, but the water tank is generally smaller as a result. Even if your kitchen has lots of space, you may not want a unit that takes up a lot of space. Check the specs of each piece of equipment to confirm that it will fit on your counters.
Extra Features
Some of the machines on our list include additional features such as a separate hot water faucet, various attachments, or a pre-infusion mode to enable the coffee to bloom. In case you’re on the higher end of the under-$500 price range, you might choose a model that can handle everything.
Bars of Pressure
To be termed an espresso, the water must be forced through the coffee grinds at a pressure of at least nine bars. The faster you can pull a shot, the higher the pressure. Many of the machines on this list have 15 bars of pressure, allowing you to make espresso swiftly and with a rich crema.
Materials Used
Because of the high-pressure needs of espresso, you’ll want a machine composed of high-quality components. That implies it should ideally be constructed of stainless steel. Or, if it includes plastic components, it will be the visible elements, such as the machine’s exterior or the water tank. Metal should be used for critical components such as the pressure pump and the heating coil.
Ease of Cleaning
This may be a machine that you use on a regular basis; thus, it should be simple to clean. Cleaning is made easy by features like front-loading water tanks and detachable elements that come into touch with the coffee grinds.
Ease of Use
Some machines might be difficult to operate, especially if you’re not used to tamping the grounds in a portafilter. Other machines provide a completely automated experience in which all you have to do is press a button. Also, it all relies on your level of comfort and willingness to learn.
Powerful Heating Features
Espresso should be served hot. You want a machine that can quickly boil water and keep it hot as it is forced through your tamped-down coffee grinds at high pressure. Ensure that the heating components are made of high-quality materials that will not quickly deteriorate over time.
Adjustable Cup Sizes
Many of the machines on our list can support multiple cup sizes, which is vital if you enjoy cappuccinos or lattes, alarger cup for the milk is required. If you like a single or double shot ofespresso without milk, this function may not be as important to you.
Conclusion
Features that were previously exclusively seen in high-end espresso machines are increasingly included in mid-range versions. So there are now a plethora of high-quality espressomachines available for less than $500. Breville Espresso Machine is our top selection for the best espresso machine under $500 since it has so many wonderful features. One of the greatest is the pre-infusion mechanism, which allows the grounds to bloom before pulling a shot.