Best Espresso Machines For Beginners – Our Top 5 Picks

Are you interested in learning the art of making espresso but overwhelmed with choosing your first machine? Don’t worry – you have come to the right place! 

I know it can be a challenge for beginners to choose an espresso machine when there are so many options out there. 

That’s why I wrote this guide – to help you determine which espresso machines will best meet your needs and give you a solid start into the world of barista-level coffee drinks. 

As a former barista, I was amazed by Breville Bambino Plus. It is my #1 recommendation for beginners to espresso brewing game.

It’s easy to use and has plenty of features that are convenient for beginners. The slick design and quality of espresso shots for a fair price are what puts this espresso machine at the top of the list.

But not all espresso newbies are made the same, and so are not the espresso machines for beginners. Keep on reading this guide to find what else is out there for you.

5 Best Espresso Machines For Beginners

In this blog, we’ll discuss five of our all-time favourite beginner espresso machines that provide ease of use and great flavour every time.

So whether you’re ready to become a barista or just enjoy fantastic espressos at home, read on as we unveil our top picks and give you an insider look into why they made it onto our list.

Breville Bambino Plus – Best Overall

The Breville Bambino Plus espresso machine is a top-of-the-line appliance that has exceeded my expectations in every way. I find it perfect for beginner home baristas and here is why.

Its compact size is perfect for a small kitchen. The sleek stainless steel design adds a touch of elegance to any countertop. 

The built quality is impressive, with durable materials that feel sturdy and well-constructed. The machine feels like it will last a long time, even with daily use.

It features a stainless steel Thermo coil heating system that ensures precise temperature control and allows you to adjust the settings for optimal extraction. 

What I like the most is the speed at which this machine gets ready for brewing.

The Bambino Plus has a 3-second heat-up time, which is much faster than many other espresso machines, allowing you to start making your espresso quickly. 

It also includes a digital PID temperature controller for even more accuracy. 

The automatic milk frother is also a game-changer, making it easy to create the perfect milk texture for lattes and cappuccinos. You will have no trouble making a perfect foam for your lattes.

The adjustable milk temperature and texture, along with the precise espresso extraction, offer an unprecedented level of customization that is usually only found in professional-grade espresso machines.

Despite its advanced features, I had a feeling that the machine is incredibly easy to use.

The intuitive controls are easy to navigate, and the fast heat-up time means that you can start making espresso within seconds of turning on the machine. 

By the way, if you have never operated an espresso machine, you can learn how to use an espresso machine with our guide here.

One of the standout benefits of this beginner espresso machine is the low-pressure pre-infusion, which ensures that the espresso is extracted evenly and with maximum flavour. 

The automatic purge function is also a nice touch, making it easy for you to switch between milk frothing and espresso extraction without worrying about the water temperature.

Moving on to performance, I find that the Bambino Plus delivers excellent espresso quality with an intense flavour profile due to its powerful 15-bar pump pressure. 

In my opinion, beginners will be able to make consistently delicious results thanks to the easy-to-use controls which guide you through each step of the process. 

Most importantly, the espresso quality produced by this machine is exceptional, with a rich and full-bodied flavour that rivals any coffee shop. 

I find that the crema is thick and velvety, and the espresso has a complex and nuanced taste that is enhanced by the machine’s precise extraction process. I love it and so will you too!

Lastly, cleaning and maintenance of the machine are made simple too, as it comes with a removable drip tray and a cleaning alert system that notifies you when it’s time for descaling or de-greasing. 

Overall, my experience reviewing the Bambino Plus has been outstanding. It is a high-quality appliance that delivers on its promises of advanced features, exceptional espresso quality, ease of use, and durability. 

I highly recommend this machine to anyone looking for a top-of-the-line home espresso machine that can rival any coffee shop. It’s by far the best espresso machine for beginners.

Gaggia Classic Pro – Runner Up

The Gaggia Classic Pro is one of my top choices for beginners because it offers both convenience and quality similar to Breville’s model above. All this for a fair price too.

With its stainless steel construction, this machine is designed to be both durable and attractive. Just like the previous model, this machine will last for a long time.

Its straightforward design allows for ease of use, with features such as an easy-to-read control panel, pre-infusion system, large cup warming tray, and removable water tank. 

In terms of build quality, this espresso machine for beginners is incredibly solid and perfectly suited for everyday home use. It offers excellent value for money and promises strong performance in the long term. 

The components used are all high quality and fit together perfectly to ensure the best possible espresso extraction experience. 

The exterior has a sleek look that will easily fit into any modern kitchen space.

Of course, no one buys an espresso machine purely based on looks – what matters most is the quality of espresso it can produce! 

Fortunately, the Gaggia Classic Pro does not disappoint in this regard. 

I find that it produces consistently good shots of espresso with a great crema layer on top – thanks to its pre-infusion system which ensures even distribution of pressure throughout the extraction process. 

In addition to this, it also comes with adjustable temperature settings so you can get your desired flavour profile each time you make your coffee.

If you are not sure how to make espresso, you can learn more in our step-by-step guide.

One of the main features of the Gaggia Classic Pro is its commercial-style 58mm portafilter, which allows for consistent extraction and full-bodied espresso. 

What I like about this model is that it also has a three-way solenoid valve, which helps to reduce splatter and improve the quality of the espresso. 

Additionally, the machine has a powerful 15-bar pump and a single boiler system that heats up quickly. 

The milk steaming wand on this espresso machine is quite good in my experience. It is a traditional frothing wand, which requires you to manually control the steam and position the wand in the milk pitcher. 

With a bit of practice, there is no doubt that you can achieve excellent results and create rich, velvety milk foam for lattes and cappuccinos just like we did.

The only downside is its single boiler system. Compared to Breville Bambino Plus, the single boiler can be a limitation if you want to make multiple milk-based drinks in quick succession.

This means that the machine must be allowed to cool down before switching from steaming to brewing mode, and vice versa.  But since I’m sure you will not use it in a coffee shop setting but at home, I find this to be negligible.

Overall, reviewing the Gaggia Classic Pro has been a real pleasure – thanks to its ease of use and consistent performance. I really like the design and quality of the materials too.

It certainly lives up to its reputation as one of the best espresso machines in its class when it comes to producing great-tasting espresso drinks regularly at home without having to go through too much hassle or mess even if you are a complete beginner.

De’Longhi ECP3420 – Best On Budget 

The De’Longhi ECP3420 is a nice beginner-friendly espresso machine that climbed to our list because delivers delicious espresso with ease. 

Its main features include a 15-bar pressure pump, a built-in frother, and a 37-ounce water tank. The machine also comes with a single and double-shot filter basket, a tamper, and a measuring scoop.

The built quality of this model is quite nice, with a sleek combination of plastic materials and a stainless steel design that looks great on any kitchen countertop. 

In my experience, due to a bit of lower quality materials, ECP3420 might break easily. But hey! You can’t expect high-quality materials in a budget-friendly appliance.

If this will be a deal breaker for you, I recommend sticking to either Bambino Plus or Gaggia Classic Pro.

On the bright side, this machine receives high marks in terms of espresso quality. The 15-bar pressure pump helps to extract maximum flavour from the coffee beans, resulting in rich and flavorful espresso. 

The built-in frother is also a nice touch, allowing you to create frothy milk for a cappuccino or even a delicious latte. It’s not the best one, but it does the job.

In terms of ease of use, this machine is simple enough for anyone to operate without any learning curve involved. Once you learn all its features and understand how to adjust them properly, making delicious coffee drinks becomes an effortless process. 

Cleaning up after each use is also quick and straightforward as well. That’s just one of the reasons why it ranks high on our list of best espresso machines for beginners.

We have this guide on how to clean the espresso machine if you want to learn more.

One of the main pros of this model is its affordable price point, which makes it an excellent entry-level option for those looking to get into home espresso brewing. 

However, some cons include lower-quality materials and the fact that the machine doesn’t come with a built-in grinder.

Overall, my experience reviewing the De’Longhi ECP3420 has been very positive. From its attractive design to its consistent espresso quality – this machine ticks all the boxes for me. 

It is an excellent option if you are looking to enjoy espresso at home without breaking the bank. It offers solid features and decent quality at an affordable price point, making it a good value for money.

Breville Barista Touch – Best Upgrade

The Breville Barista Touch espresso machine has been touted as one of the best home espresso machines available. It’s a great upgrade to our top 3 choices. 

Built with high-quality materials and a classic design, this machine stands out in both style and quality. If you want a high-end espresso experience at home, I recommend going with any Barista model from Breville and here is why.

Features include a PID temperature controller for precise water temperature, an automatic steam wand for a consistent quality milk texture, a built-in grinder with customizable grind settings to suit your coffee type and automatic cleaning programmes. 

One of the standout features of this machine is its touchscreen interface, which guides you through the process of making a variety of espresso drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites. 

I find that the touchscreen interface is intuitive and simple to use. You can quickly adjust parameters such as the coffee volume, grinder settings and steam pressure levels with just a few taps on the screen.

The machine also allows for the customization of shot volumes, milk temperature, and texture to meet individual preferences. 

In terms of built quality, Breville has designed this machine with durable materials that are made to last. Its stainless steel finish is sleek and attractive and its high-quality components ensure reliability over many years of use. 

When it comes to making espressos, cappuccinos or lattes, this model delivers professional results thanks to its PID temperature controller that maintains optimal water temperatures during extraction. 

Additionally, the machine’s 54mm portafilter provides consistent and even pressure during extraction, resulting in a high-quality espresso.

The automatic steam wand ensures perfect milk texturing every time while adjustable grind settings make it easy to create the perfect shot tailored to your taste preferences. 

In my opinion, one potential drawback of this machine is its size, which may be too large if you have limited counter space. 

Overall, my team and I had an excellent experience reviewing this espresso machine. It’s well-built with top-of-the-line components that ensure consistent results cup after cup. 

With its efficient design and intuitive controls, you can easily make barista-style drinks from the comfort of your own kitchen every time! 

The only considerable downside would be its price tag which is fairly steep compared to other models on our list here.

However, given all its features I would highly recommend it if you’re looking for a reliable espresso machine that will give you professional results every time and will last for years to come.

Philips 3200 Series – Best Hands-Free 

If you are in the market for a beginner-friendly espresso machine that does all the heavy lifting for you, I would gladly recommend the 3200 Series from Philips’s workshop.

This espresso machine is a fully automatic machine that is designed to make espresso, coffee, cappuccino, and latte macchiato with ease on without too much mess.

It features ceramic grinders and a patented milk carafe with automatic frothing that allows you to make your favourite coffee drinks with just the touch of a button.

One of the main features of this machine is a thermo-block heating system, an adjustable spout and a 15-bar pressure pump. 

In terms of build quality, I find this espresso machine to be well-constructed and durable. Its sleek and modern design is made of high-quality materials that are easy to clean and maintain.

When it comes to making espresso, the 3200 Series does not disappoint. 

The thermo-block heating system ensures fast heat-up times and accurate temperature control, while the 15-bar pressure pump extracts maximum flavour from your coffee grounds. 

The adjustable spout also allows you to customize the height and angle of your pour for perfect shots every time.

In terms of ease of use, I find that the machine is relatively straightforward. 

It has a clear digital display which shows all important information like how much water is in the tank and how hot it is. 

Operating the machine only requires a few simple steps; first, fill up the reservoir with water and press the “on” button, then select your desired drink type using the buttons on the front panel and wait for your espresso to be brewed perfectly each time. 

Overall, there are many pros associated with using a fully automatic espresso machine like this. 

First of all, it produces great-tasting espresso, thanks to its high-pressure pump and precise temperature control system. 

Furthermore, it is easy to operate even for beginners. Additionally, it has a compact footprint that makes it perfect for small kitchens.

I find that cleaning it is also very simple – just empty out any remaining water from reservoirs after use or clean it manually if needed – no special tools are required for cleaning purposes. 

On the downside, I discovered that some users have reported that when used frequently this machine can become quite noisy over time due to its powerful motor.

Additionally, some parts may need replacing after long periods of usage such as gaskets or filters which may require additional cost depending on individual needs. 

Overall, the Philips 3200 Series espresso machine is a great choice for those who want a fully automatic espresso machine that is easy to use and produces consistently high-quality coffee drinks. 

Durable build quality and sleek design make this model a stylish addition to any kitchen. However, its price point may be a consideration for some.

How to Pick the Best Espresso Machine For Beginners

The best way to choose the perfect espresso machine is by determining exactly what features are most important to you beforehand.

Start your research by answering these questions:

What is your budget?

The price of an espresso machine for beginners can vary greatly depending on the brand, features, and quality of the machine. 

Generally, you can expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $1000 on a beginner-level espresso machine.

Machines at the lower end of the price range are typically simpler, with fewer features and less durable materials. A good example is De’Longhi ECP 3120.

These machines may not produce the same quality of espresso as higher-end machines but are a good starting point for beginners.

Machines in the mid-range of the price spectrum, between $300 and $600, often offer more features, such as programmable settings and temperature control, as well as higher-quality construction materials. 

These machines are a good investment for beginners who are looking for a more advanced machine with better build quality. Such as our best espresso machine for beginners, Breville Bambino Plus.

At the higher end of the price spectrum, machines can cost upwards of $1000 and often include features such as dual boilers, advanced temperature control, and automated milk frothing. 

These machines are typically more complex and designed for beginner to advanced users, but can also be a good long-term investment for serious coffee enthusiasts. Breville Barista Touch is a great machine in this category.

What type of espresso machine do you want?

There are several main types of espresso machines, each with its own features and characteristics. These include:

• Manual Espresso Machines: Also known as lever espresso machines, these machines require the user to manually control the water flow by pulling a lever. Manual machines can produce high-quality espresso but require a steep learning curve and lots of practice to master.
• Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines: These machines are the most common type of home espresso machine. They use an electric pump to maintain consistent water pressure but require the user to manually start and stop the water flow. Semi-automatic machines typically offer more control over the espresso-making process than fully automatic machines.
• Automatic Espresso Machines: These machines automate the espresso-making process, from grinding the coffee beans to brewing the espresso shot. Automatic machines are generally easier to use than semi-automatic machines but offer less control over the espresso-making process.
• Super-Automatic Espresso Machines: These machines are the most advanced type of home espresso machine. They automate the entire espresso-making process, including grinding the coffee beans, tamping the grounds, and frothing the milk. Super-automatic machines are extremely convenient, but tend to be expensive and may produce lower-quality espresso.
• Pod Espresso Machines: These machines use pre-packaged espresso pods or capsules to make espresso. They are extremely convenient and require little to no maintenance, but offer less control over the espresso-making process and tend to produce lower-quality espresso.

Each type of espresso machine has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences when choosing a machine.

Pro Tip: Go with a semi-automatic machine like Breville Bambino Plus. It’s got all the features a beginner should be looking for in an espresso machine.

How much pressure do you need?

If you are a beginner when it comes to choosing the type of boiler for your espresso machine, there are a few things to consider. 

First and foremost, the most important factor is the amount of time it takes for the water to be heated. Generally, single-boiler systems will take longer than heat exchange or double-boiler systems. 

The former only uses one boiler to heat water for espresso extraction and steam milk, which can cause delays as these two processes usually happen at different times. 

Heat exchange and double boilers come with two dedicated boilers that are used respectively for brewing coffee and steaming milk. 

This results in faster production of espresso drinks as they can take place simultaneously.

Another important factor is the temperature consistency that you seek from your machine. 

Single-boiler systems do not provide very consistent temperatures due to the way they cycle on and off while heating water up multiple times during extraction and steaming processes. 

On the other hand, heat exchange systems allow you to re-circulate hot water through their system so that you can maintain constant temperatures throughout use.

The latter is much more suitable for beginners who may need more consistent temperatures for extracting ideal espresso shots.

Finally, consider how often you will use your espresso machine. If it’s solely for home use then a single or double boiler might suffice. 

However, if it’s going to be used in a commercial setting then an advanced type such as heat exchange is recommended since it provides better temperature control and greater efficiency than other models. 

Do you need a grinder or not?

There are several pros and cons to having a built-in grinder with an espresso machine. Here are some of the most significant:

Pros:

• Convenience: One of the biggest advantages of having a built-in grinder is convenience. You don’t need a separate grinder, which saves you time and counter space.
• Consistency: When you use a built-in grinder, you can be sure that the grind size and amount of coffee are consistent each time you make espresso. This can help you achieve better and more consistent results.
• Freshness: Grinding your coffee beans just before brewing can result in fresher and more flavorful espresso.

Cons:

• Price: Espresso machines with built-in grinders tend to be more expensive than machines without grinders.
• Maintenance: Built-in grinders require maintenance, including cleaning and adjusting the grind size. This can be time-consuming and may require additional skills and knowledge.
• Noise: Grinders can be noisy, and if your espresso machine has a built-in grinder, it may be louder than machines without grinders.
• Limited options: Some built-in grinders may offer limited options for adjusting the grind size, which can limit your ability to customize your espresso.

Overall, the decision to buy an espresso machine with a built-in grinder will depend on your individual needs and preferences. 

If you value convenience, consistency, and freshness, a built-in grinder may be worth the investment. 

However, if you’re on a tight budget or don’t mind using a separate grinder, a machine without a built-in grinder may be a better option.

One of the best espresso machines for beginners that includes a grinder is Breville Barista Touch. On the other hand, if you don’t need this feature, the first two picks are great!

Do you need milk frother on not?

Whether to get an espresso machine with a milk frother or without one depends on your individual preferences and needs. Here are some factors to consider:

• Drink preferences: If you prefer milk-based espresso drinks such as lattes and cappuccinos, then a machine with a milk frother may be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer plain espresso or Americano, a machine without a frother may be a better choice.
• Budget: Machines with built-in milk frothers tend to be more expensive than those without. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider a machine without a frother.
• Space: If you have limited counter space in your kitchen, a machine with a built-in milk frother can save you space by eliminating the need for a separate frother.
• Control: If you’re particular about how your milk is frothed, a machine with a frother that offers more control over the frothing process may be a better choice.
• Maintenance: Machines with built-in milk frothers require more maintenance than those without. If you’re willing to clean and descale the frother regularly, then a machine with a frother may be a good choice. However, if you don’t want to deal with the extra maintenance, a machine without a frother may be a better option.

Luckily, all espresso machines on our list have a built-in steaming wand for frothing milk.

How much space do you have for your machine?

If you have a small kitchen, then look for an espresso maker that doesn’t take up too much counter space.

There are some clever designs out there that have a very slim profile and can fit easily into most cupboards. A good example would be Breville Bambino Plus.

But if you have more room, you may want to consider larger units with more features. 

Investing a bit more will get you a machine that is not only more capable of making great coffee but will also do it quickly. So if speed matters to you then spending a bit extra could be worth it. 

How We Rate and Review Our Top Picks

My team and I take our buying guides utmost seriously. Therefore, we have a seven-point reviewing system that helps us to rank the best espresso machines from the sea of low-quality ones.

For this article, I looked up a lot of stuff about coffee. I read articles, blog posts, and reviews from experts from sites like Whole Latte Love.

Furthermore, I watched videos about products on websites that sell espresso machines and other coffee equipment such as the Seattle Coffee Gear.

We Consider the Build Quality

The build quality of an espresso machine is crucial. Espresso machines made of high-quality materials are more durable, and they tend to perform better than those made of cheap materials. 

When rating an espresso machine, take into consideration the material used in the construction of the machine, and if it looks like it can withstand regular use.

We Evaluate the Brewing Capacity

The brewing capacity of an espresso machine refers to the number of espresso shots that it can produce at once. 

When rating an espresso machine, consider its brewing capacity and how suitable it is for your needs. For instance, if you’re buying an espresso machine for a small cafe, you’ll need an espresso machine with a high brewing capacity.

We Check the Grinding Settings

Espresso machines require finely ground coffee beans to produce high-quality espresso shots. 

When rating an espresso machine, check the grinding settings and how fine it can grind the coffee beans. If the machine has a limited range of grinding settings, it may not be suitable for producing the perfect espresso shot.

We Evaluate the Steaming Capacity

The steaming capacity of an espresso machine refers to how well it can produce milk froth. 

When rating an espresso machine, check how well it can produce milk froth and if it can produce enough for your needs.

We Evaluate the Consistency of the Espresso Shots

Consistency is essential when rating an espresso machine. The machine should be able to produce consistent espresso shots every time. If the machine produces inconsistent espresso shots, it may not be suitable for regular use.

We Check the Ease of Use

The ease of use of an espresso machine is crucial, especially if you’re a beginner. The machine should be easy to operate, and the buttons should be clearly labelled. 

When rating an espresso machine, consider how easy it is to use and if it comes with an instruction manual.

We Consider the Price

Price is a significant factor when rating an espresso machine. Consider the price of the machine and if it is worth the value that it provides. 

If the machine is too expensive and does not offer the features that you need, it may not be the best choice.

What Type of Espresso Machine is Best for Beginners?

When it comes to the best espresso machines for beginners, it’s generally recommended to start with a semi-automatic machine. 

Semi-automatic machines are relatively easy to use and offer a good balance between control and convenience.

With a semi-automatic espresso machine, you can control the grind size, tamping pressure, and extraction time, which are all important factors in making a great shot of espresso. 

At the same time, these machines typically have a built-in pump to help regulate the water pressure, making it easier to get consistent results.

Semi-automatic machines also tend to be more affordable than their super-automatic counterparts, making them a great option for beginners who don’t want to break the bank. 

As a former barista, I recommend Breville Bambino Plus as the best semi-automatic espresso machine for beginners.

How Much Should I Spend on an Espresso Machine for Beginners?

The cost of an espresso machine for beginners can vary widely depending on the type of machine, features, and quality. 

Generally, you can find a decent entry-level espresso machine for around $100 to $300.

However, if you want more advanced features or a higher-quality machine, the price can go up to $500 or even $1,000.

If your budget allows it, you may want to check out our list of top prosumer espresso machines as well.

Keep in mind that purchasing an espresso machine is an investment in your daily coffee routine, and it is important to consider your budget and long-term needs before making a purchase. 

If you are just starting out with making espresso at home, it may be best to start with a lower-priced machine and upgrade as you gain more experience and refine your preferences.

It’s also worth noting that purchasing a separate grinder, milk frother, or other accessories can add to the cost of the espresso machine. 

However, these accessories can enhance the quality of your coffee and make the brewing process more convenient.

Overall, consider your budget and individual needs before making a decision, and don’t be afraid to invest in a quality machine that will last and produce delicious espresso.

Our #1 Recommendation

Considering all of the above, I highly recommend Breville Bambino Plus. It is one of the best espresso machines for beginners hands down.

It is a great choice for beginners who want to start making high-quality espresso drinks at home without too many confusing features. 

Its user-friendly design, automatic milk frothing, and precise espresso extraction make it easy to use, while the compact size and durable construction make it a great investment.

Thanks for reading our guide! I hope we have helped!