What Makes a Good Espresso Maker? A (Semi) Geeky Guide to Understanding Which to Buy, and the Best Models We've Reviewed for 2025

The world of coffee is outwardly complex and convoluted. Anyone who has walked into a cafe without a prepared order knows what I mean. Coffee isn't just coffee — will you have an espresso? Flat white? Cappuccino? Pumpkin Spice Latte with oat milk, two pumps of sugar, and cinnamon on top? There are many ways to indulge in a quick caffeine fix.

However, once you break through the smoke and mirrors, a good cup of coffee comes down to one key component: an excellent shot of espresso. If you've got a smooth, nutty brew with a thick crema layer, then you've mastered the most essential step — a fabulous latte is right around the corner. But achieving a first-class espresso shot is impossible without a quality espresso machine, so please, allow me to help.

As an ex-barista (and a truly coffee-obsessed individual), I've taken on the task of finding the best espresso machines for everyone looking to upgrade their home cafe — beginner to aficionado. Maybe you've been crafting coffee for years, or maybe you're still working out the difference between an espresso maker and a coffee machine. Whatever level you're on, this guide is here to streamline your decision-making process.

All of these machines have been tested firsthand to ensure you are getting a trusted review, either by me or by another of our coffee experts, Laura Honey. Plus, I'll be keeping this list up to date with the latest launches and espresso machine reviews. So, without further ado, here is my curated guide to the current best espresso machines on offer, starting with everything you need to know to become your own aficionado.

The 2025 Best Espresso Machine Edit

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Basic Knowledge

(Image credit: Mariko Reed. Project by Karina Marshall of Blaine Marshall)

First and foremost, there are a lot of different types of espresso machines and technical features that vary across the market. You can source anything from a manual espresso maker (the ROK presso smartshot manual espresso maker being one I recently tested and swear by) to super high-tech and even AI coffee machines.

Let's start with the basics.

What's the Difference Between an Espresso Machine and a Coffee Maker?

Though both an espresso machine and a coffee maker give us that beloved cup of tasty caffeine in the morning, they are quite different technically. The key difference here is the way the coffee is brewed and the style of drink that is produced.

Espresso machines are better suited for cafe-style drinks, while a coffee maker is often simpler in function and results in a drip-style brew.

Chloe Davis, coffee expert at London-based Extract Coffee Roasters, explains, "An espresso machine uses high pressure to force water through finely ground coffee, creating a small concentrated shot (espresso) with a rich crema top. A filter coffee machine allows hot water to slowly drip through coarse ground coffee over a longer period of time, resulting in a longer, lighter-bodied cup."

However, there are a few more nuances in the espresso machine vs coffee maker debate, and luckily, Livingetc has already done the research on that for you.

What Types of Machines are Currently on the Market?

At the end of the day, espresso machines vary mostly in the level of user input required.

For instance, manual models require a lever, precise dosing, and time control, so the result is directly dependent on experience. Whereas, Leo Yuffa, owner of Dazbog Coffee, a Colorado-based company specializing in premium coffee roasts, explains, "semi-automatic machines relieve some of this burden by using a pump to create the pressure while still allowing control over the dose, volume, and temperature. This balance allows for consistent espresso production while still giving control over the shot."

Automatic models further simplify the process, limiting control and delegating most functions to the machine. And there are even some machines that are considered 'super-automatic machines' which handle virtually everything, including grinding and frothing, to minimize user input.

Capsule machines, also known as pod machines, "brew quickly and predictably, but they deprive the user of the depth of flavor that can be achieved with manual control," says Leo. That said, an advanced pod machine (like the Drink Morning, Morning Machine)

For most coffee lovers, a semi-automatic machine is the most practical choice, as it combines ease of operation with the ability to influence key parameters, resulting in high-quality results without excessive effort.

Now that you know what's out there, there are a few nuanced tech-related characteristics to keep an eye out for as well.

What Are the Characteristics of a Good Shot of Espresso?

A good shot of espresso should be dispensed in an even pour and have a smooth and balanced flavor profile. However, the most important part of a good espresso shot is the velvety, caramel-colored crema layer that coats the top of the shot.

To achieve a delicious espresso, every aspect of the brewing process must be taken into consideration within your espresso machine. Below are a few technical features to pay attention to when sourcing your device.

Technical Tips for What Goes on Behind the Scenes

(Image credit: House of Grey)

What Is a Boiler Type? And How Does This Affect Milk Steaming?

Three main boiler types — single, dual, and heat exchanger — are responsible for heating the water in an espresso machine (both for the shot and the milk steaming wand).

A single boiler means that the same volume of water and steam pressure is used for both brewing coffee and steaming milk. "This means you can't simultaneously pull an espresso and froth milk. You must wait until the temperature reaches the desired level either before or after brewing," says Leo. While this type is common, it could be a turn-off for people who value time efficiency.

A dual boiler has two separate boilers, one for espresso and one for steam. Leo says, "This maintains a stable temperature for extraction while simultaneously producing powerful steam. This is the fastest option under heavy loads, provided the machine is of high quality." Nespresso's Sage Original Creatista Pro, uses this technology for example.

And a heat exchanger, on the other hand, is a single large boiler in which water heated by the steam section passes through a tube or coil, allowing for simultaneous brewing and steaming. Leo explains, "This speeds up the process, but the beverage temperature may be less stable, especially during intensive use."

What Does Pressure and Temperature Have to Do With Anything?

Pressure is incredibly important in the best espresso machines, as the right pressure is central to proper extraction. It directly affects the flow of water through the coffee, the amount of time it remains in contact with the grounds, and the quality of the extraction.

If an espresso shot is what you are after, "the optimal range for a classic espresso is around 9 bars during the shot. Sometimes 7–8 bars are used for light roasts or specific flavors," says Leo.

"Temperature can also affect the extraction rate, the solubility of various compounds in coffee, and the balance of acidity, sweetness, and bitterness," adds Leo. If the temperature fluctuates, the flavor will vary: sweet and aromatic one day, sour or harsh the next.

"Machines with dual boilers, as well as those with PID controllers, typically provide the best stability, especially under heavy loads," says Leo.

What About Grinders and Grind Size?

If you've hung around a few coffee snobs like me in your life, then you should be aware that the general consensus is that freshly ground coffee beans are always going to result in a nicer flavor profile.

When shopping for your machine, note that automatic and semi-automatic machines will have a built-in grinder. What's the benefit of a built-in grinder? Ted Chan, the managing editor of Coffee Roast, a leading specialty coffee review website, explains, "A built-in grinder offers speed, convenience, and a more compact footprint. They also tend to be less messy! For many home users, it simplifies workflow."

However, a separate grinder usually provides more control, durability, and consistency for aficionados. For instance, "dumping beans into a hopper is not the best storage practice for optimizing flavor," says Ted.

Serious enthusiasts often prefer a dedicated grinder, while casual drinkers or people in a hurry may appreciate the simplicity of an integrated unit.

What's the Maintenance of an Espresso Machine Like?

Like any frequently used machine, there is going to be a certain level of maintenance required to maintain peak performance. Maintenance of any espresso machine comes down to three main processes — descaling, backflushing, and cleaning the milk system.

Here is a quick breakdown: Descaling is performed depending on water hardness and frequency of use, and is similar to the descaling process of a water kettle. Backflushing is done with cleaning powder or tablets to rid the coffee group and filter of oils and coffee residue. And finally, to maintain the milk system, you must rinse the steam wand and attachments immediately after use and periodically clean them with a special solution to prevent milk residue from accumulating inside and spoiling over time.

Manual and semi-automatic models require manual cleaning, while super-automatic machines have built-in programs for rinsing and cleaning the milk system, and sometimes even self-cleaning cycles.

Leo explains, "This convenience comes at the cost of design complexity, as these machines are more difficult to repair, and parts and service are more expensive. Simpler manual models are more reliable in this regard because they have fewer parts that can fail."

Be sure to check what maintenance your machine performs for itself and what you will have to do on your own before buying. A clean machine will always produce better-tasting coffee. For all Monica Gellers of the world, Livingetc also has a more detailed guide on how to properly clean and care for your coffee machine.

How to Style Your Espresso Machine (Yes, It Matters!)

(Image credit: Mary Wadsworth. Design: Roundhouse)

I couldn't, in good faith, create a best espresso machines guide without adding a section about how to maximize style. Let's face it, when your home cafe looks good, waking up and taking on the day feels good. So, while searching for the espresso machine that's right for you, don't forget to think about how it will look in your coffee nook or sitting on your kitchen counter.

I've always been a fan of chrome decor in the kitchen or sleek stainless steel finishes. Something about these high-shine metals feels true to the essence of a real cafe. Plus, stainless steel kitchen appliances tend to be extremely durable and resistant to daily wear and tear.

That being said, anything too shiny will be susceptible to fingerprints (and I know this can be a real deal breaker for some). While I love the look of white and cream appliances (Smeg's signature espresso machine comes to mind), lighter colors will also lead to more regular cleaning.

Avoid cheap materials like plastic and instead opt for quality materials like matte metals or stainless steel.

It's 2025, you can have an art sculpture coffee machine if you so please! Just make sure you have what you need.

What Kind of Accessories Do You Need for an Espresso Machine?

No proper coffee nook idea is complete without the right accessories. Most espresso machines will come with a portafiller, a tamper, and a steaming wand. So, how you like your coffee prepared once the shot is made will determine what coffee accessories you'll need.

If your machine just makes espresso shots (meaning there is no option for specific drinks when brewing your cup), then you will either need hot water or a way to warm milk for a complete drink. Things like a water kettle, milk jug, or a separate frother (like this one from Smeg) should then be on your list.

The rest depends on how technical or creative you want to get. Some people like to have a stamping pad to protect counters, or maybe you want to lean into the fancy drink space and invest in flavored syrups for your coffee bar. It's ultimately up to you, but below are three things I would recommend.

If you've made it through the slightly geeky guide to the art of espresso making, then you are probably more than ready to start shopping for a machine of your own.

Here is a curated edit of the best espresso machines, followed by an in-depth review of each device and the best kitchen appliance brands to follow.

More About The Best Espresso Machines

Below, I, along with Livingetc's in-house coffee expert, Laura Honey, take a deep dive into why these machines have made it into our favorites list, as well as providing a review of many of the products.

Laura is a former barista and has years of experience in all things coffee, making her a true master of the field with a keen eye for how a good espresso machine can enhance your sipping experience.

Best Espresso Machine Overall

De'Longhi's La Specialista Maestro gets people talking, even if they don't like coffee. Sat on my kitchen countertop, it's almost always the first thing people mention when they walk into the room and I'm pretty proud of it. The machine looks the part, with dials, gauges, and a shiny stainless steel finish.

On test, La Specialista more than delivers for flavors and usability. The machine can automate most functions: grinding, tamping, infusing, brewing, and steaming. Even a beginner could make a barista-quality coffee without breaking a sweat. There's a neat dial that lets you choose from a range of delicious coffee, including iced, and cold brew options. I've tested a lot of espresso machines and have never seen a good cold brew function; this is a first.

The coffees it makes are consistently flavorful, well-balanced, and nuanced. Even when frothing plant-based milks, the sensitive steam wand can create a velvet texture, rather than burns and bubbles which taste horrible in the mouth.

If that sounds like a dream come true, it's because this machine is one. However, one look at the price tag might wake you up. When not on sale La Specialista Maestro costs over $1,000. There are plenty of good models at just over half that price, so if money really matters, keep scrolling. It's also worth noting that this is quite a dominating machine: be ready to have it on display all the time.

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Best Espresso Machine for Luxury

If you're ready to indulge your inner barista with some luxury and quality, Breville's The Barista Pro has been waiting for you. The shiny, stainless steel model is simply perfect. It even comes in a range of stunning finishes. Truffle black anyone?

Getting set-up with The Barista Pro doesn't take long. I had unboxed it, rinsed it, and brewed a delicious coffee in under five minutes without having to read novel-like instruction manuals beforehand. The grinder has an impressive 30 settings, so you can dial-in to whichever bean variety you've chosen to brew.

Thanks to Breville's smart system, the machine warms up much quicker than other, boiler espresso machines. Even better it has a pre-infuse setting that mimic 'blooming' coffee grounds, meaning everything I made, from espresso to cappuccino was a little sweeter and more mellow than the average coffee.

The steam wand has a flexible 360-rotation socket, which is perfect if you're confident frothing your own milk. If not, it will take a little practice before you can get into your latte art, but be patient. It's worth it.

This nearly knocked De'Longhi's La Specialista Maestro off top spot in our buying guide, but it's not as automated or versatile. The Barista Pro won't help you out with coffee-pre sets, auto-tamping, or auto-grinding, so the whole process is a little less precise and a lot more messy. Texturing your own milk, as I've mentioned, takes work too. These aren't issues for competent coffee makers, but it's enough to put plenty of beginners off.

There's more detail in our Breville Barista Pro review.

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Best Espresso Machine for Beginners

KitchenAid has carried a reputation for their iconic stand mixers into the coffee industry and they are very welcome here. Their espresso machine, available in a range of classic, tasteful colors, is slim and stylish, perfect for any kitchen. It sits subtly on the countertops and quietly works on delivering perfect coffee every time. It's a true success.

If you've never owned an espresso machine before, they can look a little daunting. That's where KitchenAid's model becomes a must-have. The simple buttons make it hard to trip yourself up. I made consistently delicious espressos in here and the steam wand is more than capable of frothing dairy and plant-based milks.

If you've never used a steam wand before, it's worth practicing, because this is one of the few aspects of the KitchenAid which isn't fully automated. You'll still be able to warm milk easily, but to get truly silky latte milk, you might need a bit of practice. It's also worth noting that this doesn't come with an integrated grinder. KitchenAid sells a co-ordinating model separately and I can attest to its excellence. However, adding this into the cost of the KitchenAid makes it seem like less of an incredible deal.

There's more detail in my KitchenAid Espresso Machine review.

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Best Espresso Machine for Small Spaces

Best Technical Espresso Machine

Sage's Bambino Plus is the coffee community's worst kept secret. It's the machine which most baristas will have at home for a multitude of reasons, but the main three are: it's excellent value, well-built, and has sensitive brewing controls.

Keen coffee drinkers who are limited with countertop space will be grateful for the svelte and slim design of the Bambino Plus. It looks the part of a true espresso machine, with a control panel, steam wand, and all the signature features. The Bambino comes in three, simple finishes, which would blend well into any coffee bar — just don't expect the same range of colors as the KitchenAid, for example.

When it comes to brewing coffee, the Bambino Plus is quietly competant. Breville has integrated the technology of their more expensive machines, so that the Bambino Plus can pre-infuse shots, taking any unwanted acidity out of your morning Americano.

The steam wand is semi-automatic, which is useful if you're not confident using an espresso machine on your own. I tested it on dairy and plant-based milks and the Bambino Plus didn't discriminate, the results with both were smooth and silky.

Most people will hold-off investing $500 in the Bambino Plus because it doesn't come with a coffee grinder. Breville happens to make an excellent model, but it's a cost which you'll need to factor into considerations for which espresso machine you buy. The fact that you can't steam and brew at the same time might also slow you down if you have a lot of coffees to make in the morning.

There's more detail in my Breville Bambino Plus review.

If you're after authenticity, luxury, and quality, La Pavoni has a shiny, stainless steel marvel waiting for you. The machine is eye-catching. There's no avoiding it, but all the levers and dials can make it a little scary too — it depends who you are.

If you're a confident coffee maker, looking to dive deep into the details of coffee making, this will be an exciting challenge. La Pavoni is a manual machine, which makes delicious coffee. Once you've mastered the pressure and steam gauges, you can pull a beautiful (and very satisfying) espresso shot. La Pavoni's Professional model also comes with a steam wand, so you can texture milk by hand too. It's an experience you'll either love or resent, depending on how you feel about taking time over coffee.

If you're not a confident coffee maker, that probably sounded a bit scary. La Pavoni is a lot to handle and there are much simpler manual espresso machines on the market that you could try first. In fact, I recommend the NEO Flex further down because it's a fraction of La Pavoni's price. However, it's not nearly as stunning as the La Pavoni.

Best Portable Espresso Machine

Those who are always on-the-go probably already have a Wacaco Picopresso sized-hole in their lives. This espresso machine is no bigger than a can of soda, but can really pack some coffee power. It makes a shot which can rival the machines at the top of this buying guide, but requires a fraction of the space and money too.

One of the best parts about the Picopresso is the packaging. Every part of the Picopresso has an ultra-premium feel, from the stain-finish case to the smooth, matte exterior. Every aspect of the product is a true delight. If you have a coffee friend, this will make the perfect present for them. If that goes down well, there are also some lovely accessories, such as the Picopresso stand which can help you to complete your portable coffee collection.

The Picopresso is quick to use. I went from unboxing to espresso in less than five minutes, but the process is more involved; you need to pump a piston to create the equivalent of 15 bars of pressure. This doesn't take long, but those with mobility wishes might not like this idea.

The coffee results, as I have mentioned, are exceptional. The Picopresso made an espresso with a thick, hazelnutty crema. My coffee was well-balanced and delicate. However, when you start looking for more than an espresso or Americano, the Picopresso cannot deliver. It can't warm, steam, or produce hot water.

There's more detail in my Wacaco Picopresso review.

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Best Espresso Machine for Style

It should come as no surprise that Smeg makes the most stylish espresso machine on the market. The colors, chrome, and curves are irresistible. Even if you have a relatively compact kitchen, the slim design will slot neatly into place, not disturbing your clear aesthetics at all.

The Smeg was easy to set-up and most of the controls are automated, so it's a matter of pressing some simple buttons to get an espresso made. Flavor-wise, the Smeg is hard to fault. My espresso was chocolatey, smooth, and delicate. Even when I tested out the pod portafilter, which is compatible with ESE pods, the notes were well-extracted. If you're an espresso drinker, you're in for a treat.

The steam wand is very usable and can froth both dairy and plant-based milks well. However, it's really short. If you have a deep milk jug, you'll need to overfill it so that the steam wand can reach your milk. Dimensions also became an issue with the brew head. Travel cups and tall mugs simply don't fit under the brew head, which is frustrating and can create extra washing up if you're always having to use espresso cups.

It's also worth noting that the machine doesn't have an integrated grinder. Luckily, Smeg makes a grinder, which I think is one of the best on the market. The grinder and espresso machine next to each other look fantastic and they're both pretty compact, but it's an extra expense you'll need to consider.

There's more detail in our Smeg Espresso Maker review.

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Best Value Espresso Machine

(Image credit: De'Longhi)

Though, I have not yet tested the De'Longhi Stilosa Espresso Machine myself, this machine has been all over my feed as the best value for beginner coffee enthusiasts,, and I've tested others from the brand. Everybody tends to love it for the value, usability, and classic espresso machine aesthetics.

For the money, De'Longhi delivers an ultimately great experience. The machine looks like a proper barista machine; it sounds like one (maybe a little too much, because reviews say it's very loud); and it comes with a few of the extras you need, including a tamper, a filter for both a single and double espresso, and a measuring spoon.

Whilst the Stilosa can pull a mostly flavorful espresso shot, steam milk, and function like any other espresso machine, it's easy to tell that this is cheaper than other quality-forward brands, like Sage for example. Many of the reviews dock points from the Stilosa for being made mostly of plastic (though durable plastic that is), and for being a bit finicky when it comes to steaming the milk and pulling a consistently strong and flavorful shot. A beginner barista could take hold of this machine and practice improving their skill with a decent cup of coffee, but if you're a pro, you might be less satisfied with this — slightly unpredictable — machine.

If you really want the espresso machine look, but not for an espresso machine price, I'd recommend doing your research into De'Longhi's different products before you buy it. You can make the most out of it, but it'll just need more work.

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Best Manual Espresso Machine

Manual espresso machines are for the true coffee lover — the people who want to get back to the basics and enjoy an espresso shot in its true form (without all the bells and whistles. For this same reason, I wouldn't recommend a manual machine to everyone; however, if you want to slow down and connect to the art of coffee making, there's no better (or easier) place to start than with the ROK Presso Smartshot.

ROK is quickly making a name for itself as a market leader in all things manual espresso. The brand's commitment to both the simple pleasure of a quality cup of coffee and reducing our individual carbon footprint makes investing in this machine something to feel good about. Plus, for only £160, this device falls on the more affordable side of espresso machines. Without the need for a motor or electrics, the ROK machine is completely portable (if you fancy traveling with it), ultra quiet, and doesn't take up unnecessary room on your countertop (although the design-forward silhouette is beautiful enough to leave on display).

When I first unboxed the ROK machine, I was slightly intimidated by how to work this (in my limited manual espresso experience) unusual device. However, the machine is delightfully simple to use, only taking about three steps.

Using the ROK takes a very small adjustment period, mostly because it takes a few tries from unboxing to pull an espresso shot with the perfect crema layer. But once you have, each shot is delicious every time. You don't even need a special superfine espresso blend (which most espresso shots require), a normal drip coffee grind size will do. It does take some muscle to pull down the pressurized handles, but nothing intense. Once you're used to this, it's really satisfying to make your own shots.

If you need more boiling water or frothed milk, you'll need another appliance to help you out. Thankfully, ROK offers a few of its own supplies, or you can take a look at Livingetc's guide to what no coffee nook is complete without.

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What are the Best Espresso Machine Brands, and Where Do I Buy Them?

Just because we've narrowed down a few of our favorite options doesn't mean these are the only excellent espresso machines available. Arguably more important is discovering the brand that works best for what you are aiming to get out of your home cafe.

Sage

(Image credit: Harrods, Sage)

Price range: ££ - £££

Sage, part of the appliance group, Breville, is one of the top suppliers for espresso machines. The Australian-based company has earned itself a reputation for offering some of the best beginner espresso machines currently on the market. Even other notable brands (like Nespresso) have taken to partnering with Sage to create top products. So, if you are eager to take a step up from your first, more basic machine, and go for something more experienced and luxe, a Sage appliance is an excellent choice.

The Bambino model (listed below) is one of the brand's most popular models, as it offers a quality espresso experience without all of the extra bits and bobs. However, they offer a prestigious range of more advanced and luxurious machines as well, which are available on their online shop and many other online retailers. Sage is an ideal brand for both beginners and anyone looking for consistent quality and form.

KitchenAid

(Image credit: Kitchenaid)

Price range: £££

KitchenAid appliances have become somewhat of a household name at this point, and for good reason — you can rely consistently on them for both form and function. They are an appliance brand owned by parent company, Whirlpool, and best known for their best-selling stand mixers. However, their entrance into the espresso machine game has not gone unnoticed.

Many reviews give the brand a high rating for its professional quality and sturdy build (not uncommon labels for the brand across the board). Strictly speaking in terms of espresso machines, the brand offers both semi-automatic and fully automatic models with the former coming with more of a learning curve, and the latter (thought more expensive) being particularly user-friendly.

Smeg

(Image credit: Harrods, Smeg)

Price range: £££ -££££

Does Smeg really need an introduction? It's a fairly common dream amongst design-obsessed homeowners to have a kitchen decked out in Smeg appliances. Smeg is a family-owned brand that has been operating since 1948, so you can trust the quality and longevity of the brand with ease of mind. In terms of style, well, no brand is offering classic espresso machines quite like the retro-reminiscent designs of Smeg.

Try starting with the Smeg ECF01/2 (listed above), as it is a slimmer, simpler design that's great for smaller kitchens and beginners. From there, you can invest in more advanced pieces, like the mini pro espresso machine, which, of course, has just as much of the signature Smeg style.

However, I just had the chance to test Smeg's new ECF03 cold brew and manual espresso machine, and if you're a coffee (and cold brew) lover with a little money to invest, this machine immediately went to the top of my wishlist.

De'Longhi

(Image credit: De'Longhi)

Price range: ££

De'Longhi is an espresso machine brand that I would classify as all about value. With unbeatably low-price tags, these machines are the top introductory choice for anyone just beginning their espresso-making journey. And again, they are a compnay that top coffee brands continue to partner with (take the Nespresso Original Gran Lattissima coffee machine, for example).

However, affordability here does not mean you are sacrificing quality or style. We have had the chance to review a few of De'Longhi's espresso machines, including the Specialista Maestro and the Stilosa.

However, De'Longhi's newest high-tech innovation (with raving reviews), the La Specialista Touch was one of my favorite advanced machines to test, to date. Despite being so high-tech, it was incredibly easy to use with a plethora of different coffee-making options.

Ninja

(Image credit: Ninja)

Price range: £££

Lastly on the espresso machine brand radar, we have Ninja. At the moment, the iconic appliance brand only has three coffee machines on offer, but they are three that are worth noting. The one that the barista in me is currently swooning over? The Ninja Luxe Cafe Pro, a four-in-one espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew maker with a hot water dispenser.

If you are familiar with the brand, you may know that their appliances are always high-quality and cutting edge, which is exactly what you can expect with their espresso machines. Though this pro machine is a bit more of an investment (around £600-£700), I can confidently say it will not disappoint.

Well, you've made it to the end of my (slightly geeky, but hopefully rewardingly in-depth) best espresso machine guide. I may be biased, but entering the world of coffee-making is incredibly fun and highly rewarding (especially if you need caffeine to function like me).

Ultimately, the best machine will be the one that is right for you, your needs, and your space. From breakfast nook ideas to luxe coffee bars, you've got the machine now, so it's time to start planning.