There are a few different types of espresso machine to choose from in this guide, so you can decide exactly how you want your coffee prepared. Some require coffee beans to be inserted and ground, whilst others use ground coffee, to begin with, taking one step out of the equation already. Automatic espresso machines, which only require a coffee pod to be inserted, are the easiest to operate of them all. When it comes to the best espresso machines, we’ve highlighted picks from brands like Breville and DeLonghi to fulfill your coffee needs. Espresso machines can be expensive, especially if you opt for the more snazzy high-end models, but this round-up aims to cover all budgets, so everyone can start their day right. Prices vary depending on how versatile you want your espresso machine to be, with features such as bean grinders, cup warmers, and milk frothers available for a little more cash. If you want your cup of coffee with as little fuss as possible, then consider one of the best pod espresso machines, which are great for their quick and tasty results. Nespresso is known for its range of coffee pods, which come in an array of different flavors made from coffee beans around the world. So if you don’t mind stocking up on pods for your kitchen cupboards when you grab groceries, then a Nespresso machine might just be for you. For more variation when it comes to your favorite caffeinated drink, check out the best coffee machines (opens in new tab) so you can get creative with a variety of drinks.
1. Breville Infuser BES840XL: Best overall espresso machine
Brilliant for making smooth and tasty espresso, the Breville Infuser BES840X also features a milk frother that performed well in our testing. This machine created a decent crema on top and due it being semi-automatic, this model is easier to use than a manual espresso machine. This was also the only model that had a metal tamper for compacting the ground coffee so that it’s ready to brew. Better for performance, the metal tamper makes this model a great choice for the smoothest espresso around. Ideal for making lattes and cappuccinos, the Breville Infuser BES840X also comes with a metal milk jug. The machine is also compatible with both ground coffee and pods, making it very versatile. The model is a little noisy and can take a while to get used to, but once you’ve mastered it you’ll be feeling like a pro barista in no time at all.
Read our Breville Infuser BES840X review (opens in new tab)
2. Nespresso CitiZ&milk C122: Best pod espresso machine
Renowned for its stylish machines, Nespresso models including the Nespresso CitiZ&milk C122 only use pods. While these pods can be expensive, they are very good at creating delicious drinks with very little effort or mess. The Nespresso CitiZ&milk C122 comes with a built-in milk frother and produces a beautiful crema on top of the espresso. This model really does stand out for its usability and how little effort you need to put in to make a great quality drink. If you don’t mind the added expense of buying the pods regularly, you can’t go far wrong with this espresso machine.
Read our Nespresso CitiZ&milk C122 review (opens in new tab)
3. DeLonghi EC-685: Best espresso machine milk frother
The DeLonghi EC-685 espresso machine has a sleek design and is fairly compact, meaning it won’t take up too much space on your countertop. It’s very easy to use and makes a tasty cup of espresso, but what really sets this machine apart from others is its great milk frother. Creating frothed milk near to a coffee shop’s standard, this machine doesn’t come with a milk jug, however, so you will need to buy one. The auto shut-off on this model is also very helpful and adds to its safety aspects. The warranty is shorter than most machines we reviewed though.
Read our DeLonghi EC-685 review (opens in new tab)
4. Cuisinart EM-200: Most versatile espresso machine
The Cuisinart EM-200 uses a bar pump to create a delicious espresso that is smoother than you’d get with a steam pump. This model also offers programmable and manual controls so that you create the exact coffee you want. Other features on this model have been well thought out too. For example, a switch allows you to keep the filter in place so that you can get rid of your coffee grounds without losing the filter and making a mess. Even the milk jug that comes with this machine has a good spout so that you can create pretty coffee art on top of your drink. It has to be said that this machine is a little noisy when you’re using it and it’s also pretty heavy too.
Read our Cuisinart EM-200 review (opens in new tab)
5. Espressione Café Minuetto: Best large capacity espresso machine
The steam arm milk frother on the Espressione Café Minuetto works well and is ideal for lattes, it does, however, get very hot so you have to watch you don’t burn yourself. What really stands out about this model though is its large water tank, meaning you can create lots of drinks with ease. Suitable for both ground coffee and pods, this machine also has a cup warmer which is really handy and not something the other machines we reviewed had. Due to the manual controls, this model does take a bit of getting used to before you can master the perfect drink, but it is a great option.
Read our Espressione Café Minuetto review (opens in new tab)
