As a former barista, I'm a little bit obsessed with finding the best espresso machines on the market. In the coffee industry, I had the luxury of trying out commercial machines, but of course, you can't take these industrial-level styles home with you. However, in the past five years, good espresso machines have become more accessible, reliable, user-friendly, and much more beautiful. This means taking the coffee shop home is easier than ever.
Though the market for stylish, high-tech espresso machines is growing significantly, the options vary significantly. Depending on your confidence and skill level, you can spend thousands on huge, sparkling appliances with dials, gauges, gadgets, grinders, and other smart functions. However, there are also some excellent compact, sleek, and small machines, perfect for every home.
As a coffee-obsessed individual, I've taken on the task of finding the best espresso machines for everyone looking to upgrade their morning brew — beginner to aficionado. Almost all of these have been tested first-hand to ensure you are getting a trusted review, either by myself or by another of our coffee experts, Laura Honey.
I'll be taking on even more new espresso maker reviews going forward (as well as testing the best drip coffee makers, if that's more your lane), keeping this list up to date with the latest launches. So, without further ado, here are the best espresso machines on offer.
The 2025 Best Espresso Machine Edit
This compact coffee machine comes without compromise. It's easy to use, makes delicious coffees, and won't wipe out your wallet. It doesn't come with a grinder though, so you'll need one.
Some espresso machines can be overwhelming, but this model simplifies everything. It comes in a range of colors and can make a killer coffee too. You'll need to buy a grinder separately though.
De'Longhi means business with this machine. The shiny steel and impressive dials promise incredible coffee with a high-tech touch screen function — La Specialista Maestro more than delivers. Although, it comes with a big price tag.
Breville didn't skimp on anything with this shiny machine. Available in a range of colors, it looks beautiful on the countertop. As for the coffees it makes, they're faultless. Look no further for luxury.
This is one of the most beautiful coffee machines on the market, but it's also incredibly technical and quite expensive. It's perfect for geeks who want to devote days to coffee making.
Even though this is no bigger than a can of cola, it can pack a coffee punch. It comes in a luxury case with a satin finish, so it feels really premium. I think the flavors it extracts rivals bigger machines.
Smeg's signature retro style shines through in this espresso machine. It's not the most technical, nor is it the most practical, but it makes a true style statement.
You'll have seen the Casabrews all over TikTok. This comes with generous quantities of accessories and generally performs well. Although, it's not as slick as more premium machines.
The Flair NEO is the bare-bones of a manual espresso machine. It's great for travelling or a more hands-on approach to coffee, but isn't quick or easy to use if you're a beginner.
More About The Best Espresso Machines
As promised, below Livingetc's in house coffee expert, Laura Honey, takes 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 key eye for how a good espresso machine can enhance your sipping experience.
Best Espresso Machine Overall
Buy it if
✅ You want a 'wow' machine: this is eye-catching
✅ You need some help: this auto grinds, tamps, brews, and steams
✅ You drink cold brew: this has a setting for cold brew
Don't buy it if:
❌ You're on a budget: this doesn't score high on affordability
❌ You have slim countertops: this is a large and heavy
❌ You only drink one coffee type: La Specialista's coffee range will be overkil
The bottom line
🔎 De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro: the people who will really get the most for their money out of La Specialista Maestro drink a range of coffee and notice the nuances in every sip. If you want simplicity (and a budget machine) this is too much.
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.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Flavor | Perfect flavors across the range | ★★★★★ |
Versatility | Can make cold brew and iced coffee | ★★★★★ |
Usability | Plenty of guidance and automation | ★★★★★ |
Value | Almost double the price of most others | ★★★ |
Best Espresso Machine for Luxury
Buy it if
✅ You want a professional espresso machine: this can get very technical
✅ You have a sensitive palette: the precision controls are next level
✅ You like luxury: this is a truly premium machine
Don't buy it if:
❌ You're on a budget: this isn't cheap
❌ You're a beginner: this might be overwhelming
❌ You have slim countertops: this demands a lot of space
The bottom line
🔎 Breville The Barista Pro: everything you need to know is in the name. Breville's espresso machine turns your kitchen into a cafe; it's technical, precise, and ultra-impressive. If that sounds overwhelming, there are cheaper, easier models available.
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.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Flavor | Pre-infuse setting is brilliant | ★★★★★ |
Versatility | Covers all speciality coffee options | ★★★★ |
Usability | Good for experts, but no automation | ★★★★★ |
Value | Expensive, but good quality | ★★★★ |
Best Espresso Machine for Beginners
Buy it if
✅ You're a beginner: this is simple and easy to use
✅ You want color options: this is available in a range of finishes
✅ You're short on space: this is ultra-slim
Don't buy it if:
❌ You don't own a grinder: you'll have to buy one
❌ You want customization: this only has a few controls
❌ You can't froth milk: this doesn't have presets
The bottom line
🔎 KitchenAid Espresso Machine: In true KitchenAid style, this beautiful, durable machine is highly-desirable. Although, it's designed for beginners, so might be a little basic for some.
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.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Flavor | Consistently delicious | ★★★★★ |
Versatility | Compatible with grounds and pods | ★★★★★ |
Usability | Easy for everyone to use | ★★★★★ |
Value | Excellent value, but grinder sold separately | ★★★★ |
Best Espresso Machine for Small Spaces
Buy it if
✅ You're short on space: this is ultra-slim
✅ You're a coffee amateur: this will give you enough to work with
✅ You're on a budget: this exceptional value
Don't buy it if:
❌ You don't own a grinder: you'll have to buy one separately
❌ You need capacity: this can only make one coffee at a time
❌ You aren't a keen cleaner: this is a little high maintenance
The bottom line
🔎 Sage Bambino Plus: don't underestimate this slim and petite machine. It's incredibly popular for the sensitive brewing features and reasonable price tag. However, it doesn't come with a grinder.
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.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Flavor | Consistently excellent | ★★★★★ |
Versatility | Good with fresh coffee, but not pod compatible | ★★★★ |
Usability | Intuitive and easy to use | ★★★★★ |
Value | Great value, but no integrated grinder | ★★★★★ |
Best Technical Espresso Machine
Buy it if
✅ You're a coffee geek: this is ultra-technical
✅ You like to take time over coffee: this is slow and involved
✅ You want something a little different: this is a true talking point
Don't buy it if:
❌ You're not a professional: this is complex
❌ You're on a budget: this is very expensive
❌ You don't have an espresso grinder: you'll have to buy a special one
The bottom line
La Pavoni Professional: any coffee geek will go weak at the sight of La Pavoni. The industrial-chic stainless steel design is a marvel which you will need to dedicate some serious time to testing.
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.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Flavor | Exceptionally good | ★★★★★ |
Versatility | Limited function | ★★★★ |
Usability | Very inveolved | ★★ |
Value | Expensive and you'll need a special grinder | ★★ |
Best Portable Espresso Machine
Buy it if
✅ You travel a lot: this is portable
✅ You need a silent machine: this is motorless and whisper silent
✅ You only like espressos: this pulls a delicious shot
Don't buy it if:
❌ You like milky coffee: this only makes espresso
❌ You aren't a keen cleaner: there are lots of parts to cover
❌ You want an automatic machine: this is manual
The bottom line
🔎 Wacaco Picopresso: contained in a barrel no bigger than a can of soda, is the capability to make incredible espressos. It can't do much else though.
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.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Flavor | Makes a flawless espresso | ★★★★★ |
Versatility | Only makes espresso | ★★★★ |
Usability | Very easy to use | ★★★★★ |
Value | Expensive, but feels premium | ★★★★★ |
Best Espresso Machine for Style
Buy it if
✅ You put style first: this is beautiful
✅ You have slim countertops: this is very compact
✅ You drink mostly espressos: that's Smeg's speciality
Don't buy it if:
❌ You have tall coffee cups: the brew head is low
❌ You can't steam milk: the steam wand is tricky
❌ You want lots of control: this is pretty basic
The bottom line
🔎 Smeg Espresso Machine: available in seven different colors, Smeg's espresso machine flaunts their signature style. It can pull a good shot, but is imperfect in some practicalities.
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.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Flavor | Makes a good espresso | ★★★★★ |
Versatility | Compatibe with grounds and pods | ★★★★ |
Usability | Low brew head and short steam wand | ★★★ |
Value | Expensive with grinder | ★★★ |
Best Value Espresso Machine
Buy it if
✅ You're on a budget: this is great value
✅ You want the barista aesthetics: this has a classic design
✅ You don't have any coffee experience: this machine is highly praised for being easy-to-use
Don't buy it if:
❌ You're impatient: can be inconsistent
❌ You want luxury: some aspects are cheap
The bottom line
🔎 De'Longhi Stilosa Espresso Machine: this machine is not only stylish, but has quickly become a beginners favorite. It is great value, but feels a little cheap in some aspects.
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.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Flavor | Mostly good | ★★★★ |
Material | High quality build, many parts plastic, yet durable | ★★★ |
Usability | Normally easy, but inconsistent (especially with milk frother) | ★★★★ |
Value | Exceptional value with accessories | ★★★★ |
Best Manual Espresso Machine
Buy it if
✅ You want something different: this is an involved process
✅ You travel a lot: this is light and slim
✅ You're on a budget: this is really cheap
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want speedy coffee: this takes time to assemble
❌ You want a premium machine: the flexible plastic feels cheap
❌ You drink more than espressos: this can't texture milk
The bottom line
🔎 Flair NEO Flex: if you wanted to try manual coffee making, there's no better place to start. This is portable, inexpensive, and yet still a market-leader. It's a slower and more involved process though.
I wouldn't advise manual espresso machines to everyone: they're a technical, hands-on way of making your morning coffee. However, if you're determined to test these models out for yourself, there's no better place to start than with the Flair NEO Flex.
Flair are market-leaders for manual machines, but that's not reflected in the price. You could pick up one of these for around $30, making it the cheapest in this buying guide by a long way. Without the need for a motor or electrics, the NEO Flex is completely portable (although quite big), ultra quiet, and has a very distinctive, looping silhouette. I'd be tempted not to leave this on show, because it's quite fragile, but you could. I'm sure people would comment on it.
My instinct when I unboxed it was that the NEO Flex felt cheap. However, the plastic frame gives the flexion needed for the device to pull espresso shots and work with pressure.
Using the NEO Flex takes a bit of adjusting. You need a special superfine espresso blend (which you can buy from speciality coffee shops) and some muscle to help create pressure in the chamber. Once you're used to this, it's really satisfying to make your own shots. However, if you need more boiling water or frothed milk, you'll need another appliance to help you out. Thankfully, you save a lot with the NEO Flex, so you can afford to splurge a little on other appliances.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Flavor | Makes a delicious espresso | ★★★★★ |
Versatility | Can only pull shots | ★★★ |
Usability | Easy to use once you're familiar with iy | ★★★★ |
Value | Inexpensive model | ★★★★★ |
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
Sage is one of the top competing espresso machine brands when it comes to performance and cutting-edge technology.
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 the some of the best beginner espresso machines currently on the market. So, if you are eager to take a step up from your first, more basic machine, 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 retailors. Sage is perfect for both beginners and anyone looking for consistent quality and form.
The Bambina machine is great for kitchens with smaller amounts of counter space, without sacrificing any barista-level quality.
KitchenAid
Kitchenaid is a household name for cooking appliances, but their espresso machine should be at the top of your list as well.
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.
KitchenAid also has a 4.5-star rated larger coffee machine that is perfect for home baristas looking for a little more intensity.
Smeg
We all know and love Smeg appliances for their stylish form, but they also rank high for function.
Price range: £££ -££££
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, simplistic 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.
De'Longhi
When it comes to quality design, De'Longhi is one of the best espresso machine brands to invest in.
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.
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, the La Specialista Touch is the high-tech innovation with positive reviews that I can't wait to get my hands on.
De'longhi also offers their 'best value' manual coffee machine in a stylish pistachio green color that will look fabulous on your counter.
Ninja
Ninja's high-tech, three-in-one machine makes it one of the most quality brands currently on the coffee market.
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.
This Ninja machine is one of their latest models and combines three machines into one: an espresso machine, a cold brew machine, and a filter coffee maker.
FAQs
What Is an Espresso Machine?
If you've gotten through this guide and a part of you is still wondering, 'What is an espresso machine?', that's okay — the world of coffee is a complicated one to navigate.
Espresso machines, as the name suggests, will brew a shot of espresso that you can either enjoy plain or paired with milk. Most espresso machines will come with a portafiller (the handle you put the coffee grounds in) and a steaming wand to heat milk for drinks like lattes and flat whites.
What's the Difference Between an Espresso Machine and a Coffee Maker?
Though both an espresso machine and a coffee maker gives 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. 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.
Chloe Davis is a coffee expert and works on the marketing team at London-based coffee roasting company, Extract Brewers. Extract Coffee Roaster was founded in 2007 and works with global farmers to source the best coffee with sustainability at the forefront of their work. They are currently offering 20% off their coffee with the discount code, LIVINGFORCOFFEE.
How Do You Choose the Right Espresso Machine?
Choosing the right espresso machine for your home is easy when you know what you're looking for. There are some key considerations you'll want to make before jumping into a purchase:
- Size
Think about the space you're willing to set aside in your kitchen. If you're short on space opt for slimmer models or ones which are easy to pack away. You'll need to think about design and color, so that it matches your kitchen décor too. - Noise
If you choose a manual espresso machine, it will make a lot less noise than automated ones, especially those with grinders. Generally, these can be noisy machines, but the noise doesn't last long. - Grinder
Not every machine has a grinder integrated, which might suit you if you already own one. If you don't, it's worth factoring-in the cost of a grinder when you're looking at these machines. - Extra features
There's a lot on offer with different espresso machines, some you might want, others you might not. For example, De'Longhi's La Specialista Maestro can automatically froth milk, but Breville's The Barista Pro doesn't. Others might pre-infuse your coffee too.
