With the high cost of visiting a coffeehouse and the growing demand for gourmet coffee, more people are looking into investing in their own espresso machine. A high-quality machine, the priciest of which can run up to $1,000, can last over a decade and bring the fine quality of espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes to your own home. Of course, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg: There are also budget models available for as low as $25. You’ll just have to have an idea of how espresso machines work and what qualities make a model a top performer.

Different versions

The most basic type of espresso maker is the stovetop variety, which, as its name implies, sits atop the stove and requires no outlets or wires. These are the kind you’re like to see in an Italian restaurant. Stovetop espresso makers are handy because they’re easily portable and you can even bring them on a camping trip.

Steam machines are another form of espresso makers. They work by using steam pressure to push hot water through the coffee grounds. You can find steam espresso makers for low, affordable prices, but they vary in the quality of coffee they produce.

Pump-driven machines produce the finest-quality coffee and therefore cost the most. There are manual pumps which are very hands-on when it comes to controlling the brewing process, and automatic pump models that grind the beans, brew the coffee, and deposit the grounds for you; all you have to do is occasionally empty the bin of used grounds. Falling in the middle are semiautomatic machines, which vary in how much work they do independently.

Ground coffee or pods

Espresso machines also vary in what form of coffee they accept. Some models exclusively require pods, or pre-measured, pre-ground capsules. Pods are convenient because they don’t require you to measure or tamp down the grounds yourself, but be aware that some espresso makers are designed to take only that brand’s pods. You won’t be able to find the product in stores but will have to order them from the manufacturer (and it can be expensive).

Other espresso makers require you to measure, fill, and tamp down the coffee grounds yourself. The process is not difficult but it can take practice to get just the right results. Some machines accept either grounds or pods for ultimate flexibility and control. Ultimately, the cheapest route is to buy coffee beans and grind them yourself.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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Top 10 Espresso Machines

For the most variety, we included stovetop, steam, and pump-driven models. Each type of espresso maker has different capabilities and qualities, and by following the proper steps you can enjoy high-quality coffee with any of these models. See the espresso machine comparison and ratings below with a link to the full review of each…. [more]

For the highest-quality espresso coffee, you’ll most likely want to invest in a pump-driven espresso machine. The taste is noticeably superior to the coffee made by steam machines, with a richer, frothier, less bitter quality. Pump-driven espresso machines can require more practice to master, and they’re bigger, messier, and more expensive. However, they’ll give you the best control over your coffee, producing espresso shots equal to if not superior to the local coffeehouse’s. And in the long run, you’ll find the machines to be more cost-effective than splurging on drinks at Starbucks every morning.

So how do pump-driven espresso machines work? The machinery is quite high-tech but the process essentially follows these steps:

• A boiler heats up the water in a sealed reservoir tank.
• The machine then pushes the water through the pre-ground, tightly tamped beans at a specific amount of pressure.
• The resulting product is a tiny shot, about 1.25 ounces, of highly concentrated coffee topped off with a creamy layer of foam called crema.

If you take the art of making espresso coffee seriously, you will over time discover the best coffee beans to use, the right way to tamp down the grounds, and how to adjust the temperature and pressure of the machine for the best coffee results.

Of course, there are also automatic models that do all the hard work for you: grinding the beans, releasing the correct amount of hot water, and depositing the used grounds in a container for easy disposal. Some automatic machines still give you a degree of control over the bean grinding process and the amount of coffee made. Whether to choose a manual or an automatic pump-driven machine is a matter of personal preference. Know, too, that machines with a grinder will automatically be heavier and take up more space on the counter.

Cleaning up

Newer models have become increasingly easier to clean, but the manual pump-driven machines can become quite messy in the espresso-making process. You are, after all, grinding beans and measuring out and tamping down the grounds into a filter. A drip tray is often necessary to catch any spills or drips, as well. However, models that use pods or capsules cut down on the mess, and some espresso machines come with an automatic cleaning cycle.

Choosing the right espresso maker is a complicated process worthy of a lot of careful consideration, especially if you choose one of the top-of-the-line models. But the satisfaction you’ll get from creating your own special brew of coffee and acting as your own barista with a sleek, gleaming machine will more than make up for the price.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Related Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Espresso Machines

For the most variety, we included stovetop, steam, and pump-driven models. Each type of espresso maker has different capabilities and qualities, and by following the proper steps you can enjoy high-quality coffee with any of these models. See the espresso machine comparison and ratings below with a link to the full review of each…. [more]

Whether you buy a top-of-the-line espresso machine or a budget model, there are steps you can take to ensure that you get the highest-quality espressos. It takes practice and know-how to make fine coffee, and as you discover the best practices you’ll recognize it for the art form that it is.

Here are some tips to get the best results out of your machine:

1. Use the best ingredients.

Don’t skimp when it comes to the ingredients, and you won’t be disappointed with the end results. Select the freshest beans whenever possible, making sure that they’re medium-roasted so you get the most flavor. It’s best to grind them right before you plan to make espresso to limit the oils’ exposure to oxygen. Also use fresh water every time.

2. Grind the beans to a fine consistency.

Grinding the beans is a tricky process. You may have to experiment to find out which consistency produces the best results. The coffee grounds should be fine and smooth, somewhere between the consistency of sugar and flour, but not too fine or the hot water won’t be able to work its way through the tightly packed grounds.

3. Tamp with strong, even pressure.

On a flat, level surface, tamp down on the grounds with a pressure between 20 and 30 pounds. You want the grounds to be securely and evenly pressed in the basket so the hot water interacts with as much of the coffee as possible. Be sure there are no gaps or lumps in the grounds, or else the water won’t disperse evenly.

4. Brew at the optimal temperature.

For the best taste, the water in the tank should reach between 190° and 205° F. You can measure the temperature yourself. Note that this is not the temperature of the espresso you will be drinking, but the temperature at which the water makes contact with and extracts the coffee. If the water gets too hot—say, over boiling, the espresso will end up tasting burned and bitter.

5. Extract no longer than 30 seconds.

This is the process during which the coffee grounds dissolve into the water. If it doesn’t extract long enough, the coffee will taste thin and bitter. Overextracted espressos are weak and unpleasant in taste and smell. The best extraction time occurs between 20 and 30 seconds, leaving the espresso a light blonde color.

6. Drink and enjoy right away.

To experience the full richness of taste, don’t wait for the espresso to cool down, lest it becomes flat, bland, or bitter. Start sipping right away. The layer of crema at the top will be thick and foamy, and the concentrated amount of coffee in the espresso shot will make it hard to go back to any other type of coffee.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Related Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Espresso Machines

For the most variety, we included stovetop, steam, and pump-driven models. Each type of espresso maker has different capabilities and qualities, and by following the proper steps you can enjoy high-quality coffee with any of these models. See the espresso machine comparison and ratings below with a link to the full review of each…. [more]

By Brittany Rowland

To select the top 10 espresso makers, we considered factors such as:
1. Ease of use
2. Style and design
3. Serving capacities
4. Durable and easily cleaned parts
5. Preparation time
6. Convenient tools and accessories
7. Quality coffee
For the most variety, we included stovetop, steam, and pump-driven models. Each type of espresso maker has different capabilities and qualities, and by following the proper steps you can enjoy high-quality coffee with any of these models. See the espresso machine comparison and ratings below with a link to the full review of each.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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With the high cost of visiting a coffeehouse and the growing demand for gourmet coffee, more people are looking into investing in their own espresso machine. A high-quality machine, the priciest of which can run up to $1,000, can last over a decade and bring the fine quality of espressos…[more]

Be Your Own Barista: Effectively Using a Pump-driven Espresso Machine

For the highest-quality espresso coffee, you’ll most likely want to invest in a pump-driven espresso machine. The taste is noticeably superior to the coffee made by steam machines, with a richer, frothier, less bitter quality…[more]

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Whether you buy a top-of-the-line espresso machine or a budget model, there are steps you can take to ensure that you get the highest-quality espressos. It takes practice and know-how to make fine coffee, and as you discover the best practices… [more]

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By Brittany Rowland

Featuring a unique retro design, this Nespresso automatic espresso machine produces rich, creamy coffee in just a couple minutes. It uses pods, so you get consistent results every time; just be aware that you have to order the pods from Nespresso online. Overall, we were highly impressed with this machine. The solid colors with stainless-steel accents make it an appliance you’ll be happy to show off. And the espressos it makes have a rich aroma and full, creamy body. It’s adept at preparing milk-based drinks, too, so you can enjoy cappuccinos and lattes anytime. For $349, it’s surprisingly affordable for such a high-quality machine.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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By Brittany Rowland

A solidly constructed stovetop espresso maker from Cuisinox, this handsome device is as sharp and reflective as a mirror with its stainless steel finish. I appreciate the simple elegance of the design, with a small spout and curved handle. An extra gasket and a reducer are convenient accessories. You can make the full six cups or use the reducer to adjust the level to only three cups depending on how many people you’re serving. With an induction base, the pot is suitable for any type of cooking surface. Versatile and durable, we were highly impressed with this Cuisinox espresso maker, which runs for $79.99.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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By Brittany Rowland

When it comes to stovetop espresso makers, you can’t go wrong with a Bialetti. This polished octagonal pot made in Italy adds some flair to the kitchen and provides a quick, inexpensive way to make rich coffee. With the bottom chamber filled with water and the upper one holding coffee grounds, it creates ready-to-serve espressos in a matter of minutes. Cleanup is simple but requires hand-washing, and you’ll have to wait for the pot to cool down first. For an inexpensive device, only $23, this Bialetti stovetop espresso maker produces high-quality coffee and looks uniquely attractive at the same time.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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By Brittany Rowland

You won’t find a sleeker, shinier machine than this espresso maker from Breville. Featuring a solid die-cast stainless steel construction, its thermoblock heating system maintains just the right hot temperature for rich, creamy espressos. The dials and buttons on the front are refreshingly straightforward, with a knob that switches from espresso to steam to hot water. Remember that this Breville model requires careful attention to instructions and regular maintenance; after we had some practice, however, we found the results to be quite rewarding. At $799, it’s an investment but still reasonably priced for the performance it offers.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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By Brittany Rowland

An entry-level espresso machine and only $59.95, this Capresso model has a simple black design and easy-to-use controls. The steam and the boiler heat up rapidly within minutes so you can make up to four lattes or cappuccinos in no time. The frother wand is a tad short, but it swivels around easily. We liked the hands-on approach to making espressos with this machine and being able to adjust the coffee’s strength and taste. A nice accessory to this Capresso machine is a stylish glass carafe that you can wash in the dishwasher. For a beginner’s espresso machine, you’ll be pleased with the brewing process and the results.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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By Brittany Rowland

An espresso machine that does nearly everything for you to make delicious coffee, this DeLonghi super-automatic model still gives you control over temperature, frothing, and the coffee grounds’ fineness. The espressos it produces are truly rich, with a thick crema on top. While some other espresso machines have very limited space under the coffee spigot to hold mugs, this DeLonghi machine allows you to adjust the height of the nozzle so you can fit tall cups as well. The control panel takes some getting used to because of the amount of buttons and dials, but operating the machine truly isn’t that difficult, and cleaning it is just as easy. For $599, you’ll get superior performance and fine coffee.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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By Brittany Rowland

An attractive, high-quality, and affordable espresso machine, the Nespresso U D50 is designed to accommodate your personal preferences. It conveniently “remembers” your preferred cup size and also automatically pierces and discards the cups for you. The machine also stores up to twelve used cups at a time in a tray that slides out for easy emptying. We were impressed with the milk frother as well—with just one touch, you can make foamy cappuccinos or lattes easily. If you’re worried about learning all the machine’s features, don’t—the included manual lists the instructions step by step and has clear pictures to guide you. The Nespresso U D50 is available for just $149.99.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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By Brittany Rowland

Ideal for budget-conscious consumers, the Mr. Coffee steam espresso machine is a competent model available for just $41.24. For a lightweight, compact model, it brews creamy, frothy espressos and cappuccinos with little effort. The included decanter has helpful measurement marks, a non-dripping pour spout, and a handle that stays cool. Capable of brewing four cups and quieter than a pump model, it would work even better with a steaming pitcher and espresso tamper. Still, for such a low price, this Mr. Coffee machine yields satisfying results when you use the best beans and follow the proper steps.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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By Brittany Rowland

A very popular model among customers, the Rancilio Silvia espresso machine has a gleaming stainless steel exterior and clean, attractive design. One of the best-quality espresso machines you’ll find at a relatively low price of $629, it produces light frothy milk and rich, delicious espresso coffee. It takes experimenting and practice to learn how to tamp it just right to get the least bitter taste, but its controls are highly user-friendly and easy to adjust. A solid feel and design guarantees a long life of quality performance.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Prices

By Brittany Rowland

A very popular model among customers, the Rancilio Silvia espresso machine has a gleaming stainless steel exterior and clean, attractive design. One of the best-quality espresso machines you’ll find at a relatively low price of $629, it produces light frothy milk and rich, delicious espresso coffee. It takes experimenting and practice to learn how to tamp it just right to get the least bitter taste, but its controls are highly user-friendly and easy to adjust. A solid feel and design guarantees a long life of quality performance.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Prices