Best Budget Espresso Machines
If you're looking for an espresso maker, choose one that can make rich, flavorful shots, and that can steam milk well. Some machines are fully automated and can do all of the work for you, however these typically sacrifice flavor and texture.
The De'Longhi Stilosa offers a simple, easy-to-use option that doesn't require much counter space. It also stands up well to wear and tear.
Capresso EC50 Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
The Capresso EC50 Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine strikes an impressive balance between quality and price. It's inexpensive for those who are just beginning but durable and reliable enough to satisfy even seasoned espresso drinkers. It also comes with a milk frother that can be used to make cappuccinos and lattes in just a few minutes.
When you're looking for an espresso maker, consider how often you'll use it and how many people will be drinking your beverages. If you intend to make just one or two cups a day, a single shot machine is sufficient. However, if you're planning on serving coffee to guests frequently you might need a larger capacity.
Some espresso machines come with grinder built-in and some require a separate unit. The latter is more convenient, but tends to produce a less palatable coffee when compared to a burr mill.
Select a model that features a PID control. This feature is electronically controlled to regulate the boiler's temperature, which gives an accurate and consistent result than a regular mechanical thermostat.
A transparent water tank makes it easier to determine when it's time to refill and a brew chamber reduces the time needed to clean up. The machine can also be connected directly to the water supply in your home to ensure an easier and more constant beverage.
The CASABREWS 3700Essential is a excellent option for those who want to start espresso without spending a fortune. It's not as powerful as the top brands, but it produces strong shots that are full of flavor and body. The machine's intuitive user interface is also easy to use.
A clear, front-facing dial as well as an adjustable 42-ounce reservoir for water are just a few of the features that make this espresso maker a great buy. The dual frother can be switched from steaming to frothing. (The first one whips up the milk to make cappuccinos, while the latter injects heated air into milk to make lattes.) The design of the water tank on this model is frustrating. It's difficult to refill and can sometimes be awkwardly placed.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus espresso machine is small and compact that allows you to make espresso and lattes that are of cafe quality at your home. It is simple to use and doesn't require any particular knowledge or expertise in the field of coffee making. This makes it ideal for those who are just beginning to learn about the art of making espresso.
It has a number of features that help it distinguish itself from other machines of this type. It has a PID, that helps ensure precise temperature of the water during extraction. It uses a low pressure pre-infusion method to extract the most flavor from your beans. It also has a fast heating time due to its ThermoJet system. This lets you begin making coffee in just three seconds, saving you time in the morning as you are trying to get out of the door.
The Bambino Plus also has a steam wand that can be used to make creamy, frothy lattes and cappuccinos. This comes with a couple of different milk texture settings that allow you to modify your drink to your liking. It's not able to produce the smooth microfoam you can get from an espresso machine that is professional, but it will still provide you with some options if you're an aspiring coffee maker.
While the Bambino Plus is a good little espresso machine, it doesn't have the same bells and whistles as some of Breville's more expensive models. It doesn't include an spout for hot water or steaming via manual and only ships with filter baskets that are pressurized in North America. If you already have a grinder that can make fine espresso grinds it's a great alternative for those looking to get into espresso-making at a reasonable price.
The Bambino Plus may look like a toy but it's constructed using real metal. It also has extremely tight tolerances. It's easy to clean and comes with a few built-in reminders that help keep you on track with decaling and cleaning. You'll begin saving money within a couple of weeks on costly coffee shop trips.
Philips 3200 Series
The Philips 3200 Series fully automatic espresso machine offers many functions for the price. It's a great option for anyone looking to cut down on cafe coffeehouse trips and gain control of their morning cup of joe. This budget-friendly espresso maker all-in-one comes with a built-in grinder and brew unit, as well as an automatic milk frother as well as a hot water function. It also has a variety of drinks, from iced coffee to cappuccinos and lattes.
The machine is simple to use and maintain. Its programable My Coffee choice feature lets you alter the strength of your beverages to your personal preference. There are three strengths to select from and the machine will remember your choices for each individual drink. The machine comes with an AquaClean filtering system that, according to the company will keep it clean for up to 5,000 cups of espresso.
This model has a downside in that it takes a bit longer to brew the shots than other models. This isn't a major issue, but it may make some users uncomfortable. The grinder in this model is also a little coarse, so you may require grinding it a bit more than other models.
The Philips 3200 comes with an adjustable timer that can be set up to automatically start brewing coffee at certain times. This is especially useful for those who have busy schedules. The machine has a drip pan that is removable and can be cleaned and removed quickly for a cleaner cleanup. It's important to lubricate the brew system every two months, and Philips includes a grease tube included with the machine.
Another plus is the front-loading water tank which makes refilling the machine easy. The reservoir can hold up to 1.7 gallon and the machine will notify you when it's time to change the filter or add water. The controls of the machine are easy to use and include a touchscreen interface. The display will inform you when your coffee has been brewed, and different lights will signal if there was an error or if the machine is descaled.
Hamilton Beach Espresso Maker
The Hamilton Beach 40715 Espresso Machine is a great choice for those who want to get the most for their money. This budget-friendly machine permits users to use ground coffee, K-Cups, or espresso pods that have been measured. A built-in milk frother allows the making of high-end cafe-quality coffees and cappuccinos A feature that isn't often seen in machines at this price point.
The 40715 is extremely easy to use and maintain. The unique Slide and Lock Portafilter makes it simple to insert the filter, lock it in place, and then take out your espresso. A timer that can be programmed lets you set a specific time for brewing, making sure that your espresso is always ready when you need it. The auto-pause-and-serve function allows you to pour your espresso mid-brew.
The 40715's huge water tank is a further benefit. This will save advice here you time and money by decreasing the frequency of refilling your water tank. Additionally the dishwasher-safe components and a filter basket that is removable make it easy to clean and maintain.
The 40715 performs on the same level as other machines in its class. The 15-bar Italian pump helps to create the most delicious and flavorful espresso, and the adjustable steam control ensures that your beverages are always perfect. The programmable timer and automatic pause and serve feature are also useful features.
Hamilton Beach 40715 is a great product with many positive characteristics. However, there are some things to think about prior to buying. The boiler's small capacity could cause the water to cool too fast, affecting the extraction process. A permanent filter isn't included, and you may need to purchase additional filters in future.
Before making a purchase take a look at the models at your local store. You can contact them ahead of time and inquire whether the model you're looking for is in stock. Additionally, be sure to consider shipping costs or the convenience of pickup when you're shopping online. If you're not happy with your purchase, you can always take advantage of the return policy of a retailer to exchange the item for a different one that's more suitable.