9 Best Espresso Machines of 2025

Our top picks include a range of machines from budget-friendly to high-end.

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Whether you're new to espresso or a seasoned barista, the right machine can enhance your coffee. From fully automatic espresso machines with grinders that can make a latte by pushing a few buttons to manual machines offering total control, there's an option to suit your needs.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab tests espresso makers year-round and over the last few decades we've tested over 60 espresso machines. We evaluate each machine's performance, ease of use and taste test each espresso. We also note features that offer added convenience. Our top picks range from convenient options for beginners to manual espresso machines for experts, and everything in between.

Type: Fully-automatic | Dimensions 14.3" x 10.2" x 18.5" | Pressure: Not listed | Water capacity: 2.2 liters

The KF8 from KitchenAid earned a spot in our Good Housekeeping Kitchen Gear, Coffee and Tea Awards, and for good reason. It offers a wide variety of drink options and customization, and was a top performer in both espresso quality and ease of use. This machine allows you to choose from 12 espresso recipes, including distinctive options not often found in others, such as a cortado or café au lait. You can also customize your desired temperature and body (light, medium or dark) as well as coffee and milk volumes. On top of that, you can select whether the coffee or milk is poured first, and opt for dairy or non-dairy milk to optimize frothing.

I was impressed by how easy the machine was to set up, thanks to the step-by-step guided instructions displayed on the large screen. The touchscreen was highly responsive as well. Over my years of testing espresso machines, I've found that those with extensive drink options and customizations can come with a learning curve. This one was remarkably user-friendly. I was able to use it and make adjustments without fiddling with the machine or referring to the instruction manual.

How it performed in our tests: In our tests, the espresso had great flavor and was well-balanced. I found that it was very consistent in taste, volume and temperature when making espresso. The frother made a good amount of silky foam for cappuccinos and the container is removable to store leftover milk in the fridge.

Take note: The crema was on the light side, so it may require some experimentation to find the settings to suit your taste.

Type: Semi-automatic | Dimensions 15.44" x 6.26" x 12.13" | Pressure: 15-BARs | Water capacity: 1 quart

At just under $130, the Thyme and Table Barista Mini Espresso Machine is more affordable than many espresso machines, and it performed well in our Lab testing. It has some nice extra features, like a warming plate on top to warm up your mug before pulling a shot and a built-in wand for frothing milk and dispensing hot water.

We found the 1-quart water tank was easy to fill with a large opening and it's removable for filling at the sink. This espresso maker is a great option for someone who doesn't want to spend hundreds of dollars and wants a basic espresso machine without a lot of extra features. Plus, we appreciate the trendy color options including Sand, Slate and Atlantic Blue with gold accents on the portafilter and steam knob.

How it performed in our tests: I was surprised how well this machine performed given it's lower price tag. The espresso was well-balanced with a thick layer of crema.

Take note: The built-in wand did an excellent job of steaming milk, but not as well with frothing so you may need to purchase a separate frother.

Type: Fully-automatic | Dimensions 17" x 9.25" x 14" | Pressure: 15-BARs | Water capacity: 60 ounces

With this De’Longhi espresso machine, making coffee drinks is effortless for beginners and pros alike. In fact, we found this machine so easy to use, making flavorful drinks at the push of a button, it earned a spot in our Good Housekeeping Kitchen Gear, Coffee and Tea Awards. It offers five drinks including latte macchiato, cappuccino, espresso, coffee and hot water at the push of a button. The control panel has pictures and text making it simple to see and select the drink options. The built-in coffee grinder has 13 settings to adjust grind preferences.

I've tested nearly all of De'Longhi's espresso machines and love their milk-frothing jugs. They produce a good amount of foam and are convenient to use since it's hands-off and pour froth directly into drinks such as cappuccinos and lattes. Another bonus: The espresso maker's compact size won’t take up too much counter space.

How it performed in our tests: I loved the thick froth that it produced without having to manually operate a steam wand. It's also intuitive to use with one tester saying, “Never having used an espresso machine prior to this, I feel super comfortable using this one because it’s so easy to use and to clean.”

Take note: We found the espresso a touch on the weak side on a medium setting, but this can be easily fixed by adjusting the strength or grind size.

Type: Semi-automatic | Dimensions 13.5" x 13.9" x 15.98" | Pressure: 15-BARs | Water capacity: 67 ounces

If you’re very particular about your coffee, the Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine with a built-in grinder is for you. Those who want to fine-tune and experiment with their espresso will appreciate the numerous grind sizes and temperature options. The intuitive LCD display allows you to choose from five temperatures and a whopping 30 grind sizes, and it shows grinding and extracting progress animations. The attached steam wand allows you to froth your milk exactly how you like it.

Like other Breville espresso machines, this model comes with two single-walled and two double-walled filters. The double-walled filters are great for producing a thick layer of crema even with older espresso beans or pre-ground coffee.

How it performed in our tests: All parts are easy to wash and wipe down, and in our tests, we were especially impressed with how quickly the system heated up compared to other models.

Take note: We recommend playing around with the settings, starting with the defaults and then tweaking as you go to create your perfect espresso.

Type: Semi-automatic | Dimensions 7.6" x 12.5" x 12.2" | Pressure: 19-BARs | Water capacity: 64 ounces

Not only does the Breville Bambino Plus make a tasty espresso, but the compact size won't take up a lot of counter space. I owned this machine for years and it produced high-quality espresso without sacrificing too much space. I also didn't have any issues with the machine over the years.

It comes with two dual-wall filter baskets for pre-ground coffee beans, a trimming tool, a tamper and a milk jug to be used with the attached steam wand to froth your own milk. The brew settings allow you to choose between a single espresso or a double espresso, plus steamy, frothy or very frothy milk.

How it performed in our tests: In the Lab this machine made strong espresso with a crema that wasn't overbearing. I found that this machine heated quickly wasn’t too loud, had a small footprint and could be wiped down easily.

Take note: You'll need to use pre-ground espresso or purchase a separate grinder, as this machine doesn't have one built in.

Type: Capsule | Dimensions 5.59" x 16.88" x 12.79" | Pressure: 9-BARs | Water capacity: 60 ounces

Our pros appreciate how easy the Nespresso VertuoPlus is to use, offering tasty espresso or coffee from the convenience of a capsule without the hassle of tamping, brewing and cleaning up. With a light press of the lever, the lid opens and closes with ease. To brew, you simply push the button and wait for it to produce a delicious drink. It's also rather foolproof: The capsule machine uses a special system to detect the barcode on the capsule and then brews the drink exactly how it’s supposed to brew. Choose from five drink types: espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, mug and alto (perfect for your travel mugs).

The position of the water tank can be moved to fit your counter space. Another noteworthy perk is that Nespresso recycles used pods if you send them back to the company, and the brand's newest Vertuo machine is made with 54% recycled plastic. Finally, you can't beat the price, and it requires barely any cleanup.

How it performed in our tests: Every cup of espresso and coffee came out hot and well-rounded with a luxurious crema.

Take note: It's only compatible with Nespresso capsules so you can't use your own coffee.

RELATED: The Best Nespresso Machines, Tested and Reviewed

Type: Fully-automatic | Dimensions 9.75" x 15" x 14.75" | Pressure: 15-BARs | Water capacity: 47 ounces

De'Longhi's Rivelia espresso machine has quickly become a Lab favorite. One unique feature is its bean switch system, which lets you easily switch between the two included hoppers without the hassle of emptying a hopper or waiting for the beans to run out. I found the hoppers were easy to swap out with minimal effort and appreciate that the machine can accommodate those who prefer medium roast coffee beans as well as those who prefer dark roast.

It won't take up a lot of counter space either with its compact design. Setting it up was easy with on-screen instructions and I found using the machine was a breeze. It's loaded with 18 drink options such as latte, iced coffee, flat white and more. You can also set up up to four user profiles which can save individual coffee routines and customizations.

How it performed in our tests: The default espresso settings made a strong espresso with creamy crema and there are five intensity levels to suit various preferences. The automatic frother worked well, producing a thick, silky layer of foam for cappuccinos and lattes.

Take Note: When switching hoppers, some beans are left behind, but the grind and empty feature can clear out the remaining beans.

Type: Automatic | Dimensions 15.7" x 7.2" x 12.5" | Pressure: 20-BARs | Water capacity: 40.5 ounces

The Café Affetto has a sleek design that minimalists can appreciate. It has options for a few espresso drinks, making it a good pick for someone who wants a basic, slim machine that brews espresso from freshly ground coffee beans. The water reservoir and hopper are hidden so it doesn't look clunky and helps it maintain its compact size. It's not only the style that's design-forward, this compact model also has Wi-Fi connectivity. It connects with the SmartHQ app to help you customize the temperature and grind dosage for your desired strength.

The top of this model has an easy-to-read, simple control panel with the following settings: espresso, Americano, my cup or hot water. "My cup" is automatically set to ristretto, but you can change it to your favorite coffee drink in the SmartHQ app. You can also remove the milk frothing wand for easy cleaning, and the entire exterior is easy to wipe down without extra knobs or buttons.

How it performed in our tests: In my tests, I found this machine easy to use and was impressed with the really beautiful espresso that was silky with a golden brown crema. The built-in frothing wand heated milk quickly and foamed nicely.

Take note: The brand recommends avoiding using dark roast coffee beans in the machine because they tend to contain more oils that can adhere to the machine's components and potentially cause damage.

Type: Manual | Dimensions 8.75" x 20.5" x 14" | Pressure: Customizable | Water capacity: 85 ounces

The Lelit MaraX manual espresso maker is not for a beginner looking to make an easy shot of espresso, but it is perfect for espresso lovers who want full control over the entire process. With this machine you have full control over multiple variables when brewing espresso such as water temperature, brewing time and pressure so you can experiment with your espresso. The group head preheats to prevent temperature drops during brewing, ensuring consistent temperature from start to finish.

The fun of manual machines is that you can experiment with coffee grind size, pressure, temperature and brew time to find your perfect cup or experiment to bring out different flavor notes in the coffee beans. The milk frothing wand worked well to produce silky, smooth froth with whole milk. However with plant-based milk there was little froth which is common, so we recommend using barista style options for non-dairy milk. It includes three portafilter baskets in various doses (1-dose: 9–11 g, 2-dose: 14–18 g and a larger 2-dose: 18–21 g) to customize your brew.

How it performed in our tests: There was a big learning curve when I was testing this machine. However, once I got the hang of it I found the espresso maintained consistent temperatures without the large swings and came out flavorful, strong and full-bodied.

Take note: Lelit states the machine warm-up time can take up to 24 minutes, I found it was ready in just under 15 minutes, either way you’ll need to plan accordingly.

• Breville Barista Express Impress: Multiple of our coffee experts loved this machine and it's been one of our best overall picks. While it's a great machine, a few of our pros noticed it started to have some durability issues after owning it for a few years.

• Philips Kitchen Appliances 3200 Series Fully Automatic:This was one of our favorite fully automatic espresso machines and testers commented the drinks were flavorful. It was slightly edged out by other machines but it's decently priced for a fully automatic machine at just under $800.

• Philips Baristina: If you're looking for a compact espresso machine with a built-in grinder this is an excellent choice. It's not fully automatic but it's a pretty good value for a machine that grinds, tamps and brews espresso at just under $350.

• Capresso Café TS Touch: We liked this Capresso espresso machine as it performs well for its price point, but our new best value pick performs just as well and is less expensive.

• Bosch 300 Series VeroCafe Fully Automatic: Out of the dozens of espresso machines we’ve tested over the years, this one stood out because it allows you to froth milk for cappuccinos or lattes directly in your cup.

• De'Longhi Dinamica Plus Fully Automatic: A longtime favorite of our experts, we found it pulls delicious espresso with a thin layer of crema.

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, we evaluate each espresso maker for ease of use, brew time, consistency, taste, temperature and noise level.

We've tested over 60 espresso machines across the last few decades to find the best ones for making great espresso at home. In our most recent test, we rounded up over 12 espresso machines in the Lab, brewing more than 50 shots of espresso. Here's how we test.

The best machines in our tests produced a hot, flavorful cup of espresso. Our favorite shots had nice depth and weren't too bitter or acidic and had a crema that was smooth without any noticeable air bubbles.

An espresso machine is an investment — especially if you want one with all the bells and whistles. So it's important to consider the type that fits your needs.

✔️ Type: There are several ways to make espresso with manual, semi-automatic, automatic, super-automatic and pod machines all available to the home barista.

• Manual machines require finely ground beans that are scooped into a portafilter and tamped down. The filter is attached to the brew head and a lever is used to manually pull water through the grounds. It is the most customizable method but arguably the most difficult to master.

•Semi-automatic machines and automatic machines are terms that may vary between brands. Both types incorporate a mix of manual and automated features. Typically a semi-automatic machine is more hands-on and requires grinding and tamping the coffee beans, while espresso machines labeled automatic tend to do those steps for you. Both types usually require manual milk frothing.

• Fully-automatic machines are a step above automatic ones. In addition to grinding and tamping beans, they can also automatically froth milk and dispense it into your cup, all at the push of a button or two. Many offer a variety of drinks beyond espresso, such as americanos and lattes, and recently we’ve seen models that include a cold brew-style option. These tend to be our favorites in Lab testing for their all-in-one performance.

• Capsule machines use pods filled with pre-measured coffee to make espresso or other coffee drinks. They offer the most consistency and hands-off ease of use.

✔️ Size: Consider how much space you have to allocate to your espresso maker. The more customizable ones are usually bigger, while the smaller ones are typically more straightforward with fewer brewing options.

✔️ Price: A good espresso maker with features like a built-in grinder and multiple drink options can be expensive; a simple machine is usually more affordable. However, some espresso machines that seem straightforward can be costly due to higher-quality materials and more effective heaters, milk frothers or technology.

✔️ Pressure: The amount of pressure exerted upon coffee grounds is measured by BARs or barometric pressure. While some machines will have up to 19 BARs, a machine that exerts around 7 to 11 BARs of pressure into the espresso will produce a good extraction.

✔️ Coffee grinder: Grinding your coffee beans right before pulling a shot is ideal for a good cup of espresso. Espresso machines with built-in coffee grinders are convenient, reduce some mess and ensure you have freshly ground coffee beans each time. One downside is that built-in grinders are hard to fix if they break and often lead people to purchase an entirely new machine.

✔️ Milk frother: There are two common types of milk frothers: a hand-frothing wand that requires manual milk frothing in a pitcher or an attached milk container that the machine utilizes to froth milk and add it directly into your cup. With a manual frothing wand, you can practice your latte art, but it does take some practice to learn how to froth milk properly right from the start. An attached milk container with automatic frothing takes out all the guesswork, giving you a cappuccino at the right temperature with a good amount of foam automatically.✔️ Cleanup: Depending on the model, espresso machines tend to be easy to clean. Some fully-automatic machines take the work out of routine cleaning, while more manual machines require daily cleaning of the portafilter, milk frother and more. Some super-automatic machines have milk containers that connect to the machine with a straw, which can be tricky to clean, and large drip trays that can be cumbersome. You will also need to descale your machine every couple of months (or as recommended by the manufacturer) to ensure your espresso machine is operating properly and your coffee is tasting great.

When choosing an espresso machine, beginners should consider whether they want convenience or want to explore the process of making espresso. If convenience is a priority, opt for a fully-automatic or automatic machine. Look for features like a built-in grinder, assisted tamping and automatic frothing. Fully automatic machines can grind, tamp, brew and froth with the push of a button.

For beginners seeking more control or who enjoy experimenting, a manual or semi-automatic machine offers flexibility. The features provided can vary by machine, but typically allow users to manually grind, load and tamp the coffee while automating brewing. If you enjoy lattes or cappuccinos, consider whether you want to froth milk manually with a wand or let the machine do it for you. Additional features like temperature control, pressure settings and brew time allow you to fine-tune your espresso and customize the flavor.

Espresso makers work by using pressure to quickly push hot water through a tightly packed portafilter of finely ground coffee. The added pressure and fast brew time are what create the espresso's thicker consistency and crema layer.

The espresso's look and taste are influenced by many different factors. Some of these factors include the type of coffee used and how tightly it's packed, grind size, water temperature, pressure and more. Because all of these can vary, each shot can be highly customizable depending on the machine.

Home baristas who like to try different coffees and experiment with their settings may want to choose a machine with more options, whereas those not looking to hone in their coffee settings may want a more automated machine.

Nicole Papantoniou is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she oversees all testing and content related to cooking and making drinks. Her favorite espresso machines are easy to use and clean and — most importantly — deliver a rich and balanced cup of espresso.

Jamie Ueda is a consumer products expert with over 17 years of experience in product development and manufacturing. She tests and writes about everything coffee related year-round, including espresso makers with grinders, espresso makers, coffee grinders, drip coffee makers, French presses and more. She has a passion for coffee and has completed rigorous coffee courses from the SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) in coffee brewing, barista skills and sensory tasting. She regularly tests and contributes her knowledge as a judge in the Good Housekeeping Kitchen Gear and Coffee Awards.

Jamie Ueda is a consumer products expert with over 17 years of experience in areas of product development and manufacturing. She has held leading roles at both mid-size consumer goods companies and one of the most notable and largest apparel brands in the world. Jamie has contributed to several of the GH Institute Labs, including Kitchen Appliances, Media and Tech, Textiles and Home Appliances. In her free time she enjoys cooking, traveling, and working out.

Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition. She has worked in test kitchens for small kitchen appliance brands and national magazines, including Family Circle and Ladies’ Home Journal.

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