Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines – 5 Powerful Picks

If your mornings just aren’t complete without a smooth, delicious cup of coffee— the type those baristas at the local cafe whip up so easily — you’ll appreciate having one of the super-automatic espresso machines in your own kitchen.

This amazing piece of technology allows you to make barista-quality espressos and other coffee beverages with just one push of a button.

Our number one pick is Jura E8 for many, many reasons. However, not all super-automatic machines are made equal.

In this post, I will break down the 5 best super-automatic espresso machines on the market today to help you make up your mind about which one fits your needs best.

But hey, who am I and why should you listen, right?

I’m Ivan and I’ve spent most of my 20s working as a barista. Trust me, I know everything there is to know about espresso machines.

My team and I work hard every single day to help all the “newbies” out there find the right source for everything espresso-related- from bean to cup!

The 5 Best Super Automatic Espresso Machines Money Can Buy

To help get you started, we’ve rounded up five of the most popular models. Our picks range from entry-level models and higher-end ones so there’s something for everyone.

Keep in mind that ONLY the models with exceptional brewing capabilities and espresso quality made our list. We value the quality of your espresso over everything else.

If you will have a hard time choosing the best super-automatic espresso machine for your needs, you can refer to our buying guide in this post.

Jura E8 – Best Overall

The Jura E8 is a top-notch espresso machine in the market. Why? It delivers exceptional coffee drinks with precise control and consistency.

That’s because it uses advanced Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P) brewing technology with a high-performance pump and state-of-the-art thermoblock heating system.

Plus, the machine comes with a professional-grade AromaG3 grinder that lets you adjust the fineness according to your taste. Of course, you gotta play around with it to really nail that perfect grind.

All of this ensures optimal flavour extraction from your beans every time.

E8 won us over in this category for a few reasons. Not only does it have a high-quality brewing mechanism, but it’s also got a user-friendly design and an intuitive interface that makes it super easy to operate and customize.

It’s got a ton of programming options, so you can customize everything from the strength of your coffee to the temperature and texture of the milk foam.

Another standout feature of the E8 is its automatic HP3 milk frother. It’s designed to ensure perfect milk froth every time for your milk-based espresso drinks.

You can also choose from several programmable brewing options and even set different user profiles for customized brewing settings.

As a cherry on top, we find that the machine is easy to clean and maintain. It comes with a range of convenient features like built-in cleaning and descaling programs.

The machine costs a little more than others, which could be a bummer if you’re rolling on a budget. (We have a great pick for you soon below.)

Also, some people might find the size and weight of the machine inconvenient, especially if they don’t have much space on their countertop.

But all in all, Jura E8 won in all categories. It’s a super-automatic espresso machine that we would recommend if you are on the market for the best of the best.

Jura E6 – Runner Up

Just like E8, its little brother, E6 features a range of advanced technologies that make it stand out from other super-automatic espresso machines.

These include a Pulse Extraction Process (P.E.P.), a high-performance AromaG3 grinder, and a 15-bar pressure system all of which enables consistent, full-bodied flavour with every cup you brew with this machine.

Another great feature of the Jura E6 is how user-friendly it is. Not only does it come with a big colour display, but we find that the controls are super intuitive.

The E6 also has an easy-to-use touchscreen for customizing coffee preferences. It is sleek and adds an elegant touch to any space, whether it’s an office or a kitchen.

You will notice that it also comes with pre-programmed drinks. You can pick from six specialities, like espresso, latte, cappuccino or hot water for tea.

Furthermore, this awesome coffee machine has two adjustable spouts for coffee cups of different sizes, an energy-saving mode, and a cleaning program to make sure it’s always ready whenever you are.

As you can notice, E6 is like a twin brother to E8. However, the biggest difference between the two models is the price. Plus, E6 is massively heavier.

But their overall performance in all categories is almost the same. Both are the best super-automatic espresso machines without any doubt.

De’Longhi Magnifica – Best On Budget

The De’Longhi Magnifica is a sweet super-automatic espresso machine that gives you a bunch of cool features without breaking the bank.

One of the standout features of the De’Longhi Magnifica is its compact size, which makes it a great option if you have limited counter space.

The machine has two stainless-steel boilers for distributing heat. Plus, it has a function for quick reheating, which means it’ll always stay at the right temp, even if you make cup after cup.

Also, the automatic burr grinder does all the grinding for you. But, if you prefer ground coffee, the unit can handle that too.

The Magnifica has a digital control panel that’s simple to use, like Jura’s models. It offers an easy-to-navigate interface that lets you personalize your coffee with ease.

This bad boy’s cappuccino system makes it easy to create creamy froth for your cappuccinos and lattes. It can rotate 180 degrees to handle any milk container size.

Keep in mind that unlike Jura’s, Magnifica can’t fix speciality drinks for you automatically. It can only froth milk for you. You need to finish the drink.

When it comes to maintenance, the De’Longhi Magnifica makes it easy.

It features a removable brew group that’s easy to clean and maintain. The machine also has a self-cleaning function, which eliminates any need for cleaning tools or detergents.

All that being said, we simply enjoyed reviewing Magnifica. If you don’t mind saving a bit on quality, while saving money, this machine is a great choice.

To get more information, check out our in-depth DeLonghi Magnifica review here.

Miele CM 7750 – Best Upgrade

The Miele CM 7750 is the epitome of luxury. This espresso machine is simply packed with professional-grade features and cutting-edge technology.

One of the standout features is the intuitive touch display. With just a tap or swipe, you can adjust the temperature, grind size, and milk froth consistency, among other settings.

This machine also has a unique one-touch-for-two option, which enables you to make two drinks at once, perfect for entertaining guests.

It’s got another cool feature that you would expect in this price range. You can download the Miele app and operate your machine from a distance (your couch).

The Miele CM 7750 is also packed with impressive reliability and ease of cleaning features. Thanks to its automatic rinse and descaling cycles, you can keep it in top-notch condition for a long, long time.

Finally, let’s not forget about the superior quality of the espresso itself.

Its AromaticSystem Plus technology, precision ceramic grinder and extraction system all work together to produce rich espresso shots every time.

The Miele CM 7750 also has a range of other advanced features, including a hot water spout for making tea or other hot beverages, and a cup warmer.

It also has the ability to save up to ten user profiles, making it easy to customize your coffee preferences for each member of your household.

All in all, this beauty left me wanting more. It’s by far the most luxurious,(and most expensive) upgrade model we could find. What do you say?

Saeco Xelsis – Editor’s Pick

Being a chief editor at Espressoverse, I get to pick a favourite every time we create lists like this list of the best super-automatic espresso machines.

That said, although I was impressed by Jura’s models (E8 and E6), the Saeco Xelsis represents the pinnacle of super-automatic coffee-making technology.

Its efficiency, precision and quality make it one of the best options available to satisfy even the most demanding coffee connoisseurs like myself.

In terms of features, the Saeco Xelsis boasts an array of impressive capabilities.

One such feature is the advanced milk system, which allows for personalized milk preparation that suits the preferences of individual users.

Additionally, the machine comes with six user profiles, meaning that up to six people can store their preferred coffee recipes to guarantee a consistently perfect brew.

The machine’s progressive interface enables you to quickly and easily customize various aspects of their coffee, from temperature to strength, and grind size.

One of the most impressive aspects of the Xelsis is its speed. With a high-performance thermoblock heating element and double boiler system, the machine can heat up and deliver perfectly brewed coffee within seconds.

Other standout features of the Xelsis include a robust grinder, a large-capacity water tank, and a self-cleaning function.

Plus, its housing is made from titanium and simply looks awesome.

All in all, the Saeco Xelsis espresso machine is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to super-automatics. It’s my personal favourite.

How To Choose the Best Super Automatic Espresso Machine

To help you find a perfect balance between the price and features you need, we have come up with a handy buying guide below.

Size & Capacity

When it comes to it, size and capacity are important factors to consider.

A machine that is too small will not be able to handle high-volume use, while one that is too large may take up unnecessary space and be costlier than necessary.

To find the right size and capacity, it is important to identify your specific needs.

For personal use, we recommend a smaller machine with a single or double cup capacity may be sufficient. However, for a larger household or business, a machine with a larger capacity may be necessary.

Don’t forget to keep your kitchen or business space in mind! You want to make sure there’s plenty of room so it can fit in there like a glove.

Build Quality

This refers to the overall design and construction of the machine, including the materials used and the attention to detail in its manufacturing.

A high-quality build ensures that the machine will be durable, reliable, and long-lasting, making it a worthwhile investment.

We recommend looking for machines that are made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or even titanium like in the case of Saeco Xelsis.

Not only will these materials provide durability, but they also give the machine an aesthetic appeal.

Machines made from cheap plastics or other low-quality materials may be more prone to breakage or wear and tear over time.

Pay attention to the way the machine has been put together as well. Are the parts securely fastened? Are there any loose or wobbly components that could be a potential issue?

A well-constructed machine will feel sturdy and solid, with all parts fitting together tightly and securely. Another great example is Jura E8.

Ease of Use & Programing

Since you are buying a super-automatic, you want an espresso machine that is simplified, hassle-free, and intuitive.

Firstly, the machine’s user interface should be user-friendly, and the programming process should be seamless.

An espresso machine with an LCD screen display and a simple interface allows you to navigate smoothly and choose your preferred brew settings with ease.

Most super-automatic espresso machines offer several pre-programmed drink presets, which allow you to choose between different strengths, volumes, and temperatures.

Some machines even feature customizable settings, where you can store your perfect espresso drink formula.

If you like customization, choose a machine that gives you a high level of programmability like Jura or our budget pick, DeLonghi Magnifica.

Milk-Frothing Capabilities

There are a few different types of milk-frothing systems to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

The steam wand is the most common milk frother, which manually froths the milk by using a jet of steam. This traditional frothing technique requires skill to master but can produce excellent results.

Another great choice is the automatic milk frother, which froths the milk for you with a motorized system. It’s super easy to use, but it might not be as high-quality as the steam wand.

Some machines like Jura E8 and E6 even come with a built-in milk carafe, which can be placed directly into the machine and frothed automatically.

This is an excellent option if you want to save time and hassle, but it may be more difficult to clean than other types of frothing systems.

All that being said, if you want to be able to customize your milk texture and temperature, a steam wand may be the best option.

However, if convenience is your top priority, an automatic milk frother or built-in milk carafe may be the way to go.

Additionally, make sure the machine’s frothing system is easy to clean and maintain, as this can impact the overall longevity and functionality of the machine.

Grinding Capabilities

One of the main things you should look for in a super-automatic espresso machine is a high-quality burr grinder.

Burr grinders are considered the best in the market since they produce a more consistent grind than blade grinders.

This is because they crush the beans between two discs, resulting in an even and uniform grind size.

Moreover, burr grinders are also more durable and long-lasting than blade grinders, making them a worthwhile investment.

A good machine should also allow you to adjust the grind size to suit your preferences.

Some models come with preset grinding options while others have a manual control, allowing you to customize the grind size to your liking.

The more grinding options a machine has, the better it can cater to the different coffee brewing techniques, such as an espresso shot, cappuccino, or latte, that you may want.

Cleaning and Maintaining

We recommend you look for a machine that has removable parts that are dishwasher safe.

This makes it easy to clean the parts regularly and ensures that there is no residual buildup that would otherwise affect the quality of your coffee.

The machine should also have an easy-to-remove drip tray that can be emptied and cleaned with ease. See De’Longhi Magnifica for example.

Another important aspect to consider is the descaling mechanism. Descaling is a process of removing mineral buildup that can accumulate in the machine over time.

This can negatively impact the machine’s performance and the flavour of the coffee it produces. Therefore, a good espresso machine should have an automatic descaling function that is easy to follow and efficient.

This helps keep your machine in perfect condition over time, ensuring that it produces quality coffee every time.

We have an indepth guide where we talk about cleaning an espresso machine if you want to learn more.

Brand and Customer Reviews

By reading brand research and customer reviews, you can find good products with a track record of satisfied customers.

Brands that have been in the market for a long time and have a proven track record for producing quality machines are often a safer bet than newer brands with less established reputations.

Furthermore, customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the user experience, such as how easy the machine is to use, how well it performs, and any issues that users may have encountered.

These reviews can give you a more comprehensive understanding of the machine’s pros and cons, helping you make an informed decision.

It’s important to keep in mind that not all reviews are created equal.

Look for reviews from verified buyers, as they are more likely, to be honest, and accurate. Also, pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced perspective.

How To Calibrate Your Super Automatic Espresso Machine

Choose Your Coffee Beans

Choosing the right coffee beans is a crucial step that must be taken before calibrating a super-automatic espresso machine.

This is because the type, quality, and characteristics of the coffee beans used significantly affect the brewing process and the flavour of the resulting espresso.

Calibrating your machine accurately requires a precise dose, water temperature, brewing time, and pressure, among other parameters.

These variables determine the taste, crema, and extraction of the espresso shot. Any imbalance in the settings or incorrect calibration can lead to a low-quality espresso shot that lacks flavour and crema, has a bitter taste, or is too weak or concentrated.

Therefore, selecting the fitting coffee beans that complement the machine’s capabilities is a prerequisite for achieving consistently delicious and exceptional espresso shots.

Adjust the Grind Size

The grind size determines the rate at which the water passes through the coffee grounds, affecting the taste, aroma, and crema of the final coffee product.

Therefore, it is essential to adjust the grind size correctly in order to achieve the desired balance of taste, aroma, and crema.

To start with, ensure that the hopper is filled with fresh coffee beans, and the burr grinder is clean and properly aligned.

Then, select the finest grind size setting and pull a shot.

Observe the flow of water through the coffee puck and evaluate the resulting shot based on taste, aroma, and crema.

If the shot is too slow, thick, and bitter, the grind size is too fine. Conversely, if the shot is too fast, watery, and lacking crema, the grind size is too coarse.

To adjust the grind size, start by making small incremental changes. If the grind size is too fine, gradually increase the size until the desired shot is achieved.

Alternatively, if the grind size is too coarse, make small adjustments in the other direction until the optimal setting is found.

It may take several iterations to find the right grind size, so be patient and persistent in your approach.

Adjust the Dose

The dose refers to the amount of coffee that the machine grinds and delivers into the portafilter. This process is critical as it affects the taste and consistency of the espresso.

Most super-automatic espresso machines come with a digital display that allows you to adjust the dose in precise increments.

To begin adjusting the dose, start by setting the grinder to a medium-fine setting and pulling a shot of espresso. Then, taste the coffee and adjust the dose accordingly.

If the coffee tastes too weak, adjust the grinder to a finer setting and pull a shot. If the coffee tastes too strong, adjust the grinder to a coarser setting and pull another shot.

It is important to keep in mind that adjusting the dose also affects the amount of water used to make the shot of espresso.

Therefore, it is important to take note of the amount of water used and adjust as necessary.

Adjust the Extraction Time

Generally speaking, extraction time refers to how long it takes for hot water to pass through the ground coffee and extract its flavour.

The good news is that super-automatic espresso machines have pre-programmed settings that allow for easy control over your extraction time.

However, if you find that your coffee is not meeting your standards, you’ll need to adjust the extraction time to get the desired result.

To adjust the extraction time, start by brewing a shot of espresso and time how long it takes to complete the extraction process.

Depending on the type of coffee bean you are using and your grinder settings, you may want to adjust the time accordingly.

Adjust the Water Temperature

The water temperature also affects the taste of your espresso. Too hot and it will taste burnt, too cold and it will taste weak.

The ideal water temperature is between 195°F and 205°F.

The first step in adjusting the water temperature is to turn on the machine and wait for it to reach operating temperature.

Once the machine reaches operating temperature, it is essential to access the internal settings. This can be achieved by navigating through the machine’s menu using the touchscreen display.

After accessing the internal settings, locate the temperature calibration option and select it.

It is worth noting that different machines may have different settings, and it is crucial to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific details regarding your machine.

Once the temperature calibration is selected, adjust the temperature accordingly by using the on-screen arrows.

It is important to monitor the temperature closely as you adjust it to ensure that it does not deviate from the desired range.

Adjust the Pressure

The final step is to adjust the pressure. The pressure affects the crema, which is the foamy layer at the top of the espresso. Too much or too little pressure can affect the quality of the crema.

To begin, you should start by checking the pressure gauge on your machine’s control panel. The gauge should read between 8 and 9 bars of pressure for an optimal espresso shot.

Anything above or below these numbers could result in a poorly extracted shot, so make sure to keep this in mind during calibration.

Next, you should take note of your machine’s manual and the manufacturer’s recommended pressure settings.

This information will be vital to adjust the pressure accurately according to the machine’s specific needs. You should refer to these settings often while adjusting the machine’s pressure.

After determining the recommended pressure settings, it’s time to make the necessary adjustments. Typically, machines with pressure control options allow you to adjust the pressure in small increments.

It’s best to adjust slowly to avoid making bigger pressure changes that will lead to a less accurate shot. It is important to keep in mind that not all machines have pressure adjustment capabilities.

As you make adjustments to the pressure, you should also assess the machine’s output quality. Some super-automatic espresso machines can be harder to calibrate than others, so it’s important to be patient and troubleshoot if needed.

Consistent taste and proper extraction should be your ultimate goal here.

When you have adjusted the pressure to the appropriate level, start by setting a timer for the appropriate brewing time and monitoring the quality of the output.

Repeating this process will help you fine-tune the pressure settings until you find the ideal balance of pressure and extraction time.

Test Your Shot & Repeat the Process

Once you’ve made your adjustments, it’s time to test your shot. Pay attention to the colour, volume, and crema.

The ideal shot should have a rich, dark colour, a full flavour, and a thick crema. If needed, repeat the process until you achieve the perfect shot.

Our #1 Recommendation

Overall, the Jura E8 is our top pick among the best super-automatic espresso machines. It provides tasty drinks, along with ease of use.

The Jura E8 espresso machine is a highly advanced super-automatic with innovative brewing technology and simple operation.

Capable of preparing a variety of coffee styles, the machine also boasts a large bean hopper, a high-quality ceramic grinder, and an easy-to-use touchscreen display.

If you’re looking for an all-in-one machine, both efficient and reliable when making all kinds of espressos, then Jura E8 has got you covered!

With high-quality performance and built quality, the E8 is a total win for us.

We also have a list of top-rated semi-automatic machines in case you want to take a look.

FAQs

What is a super-automatic espresso machine?

A super-automatic espresso machine is one that can automatically create espresso and other coffee drinks without the need for manual intervention.

From grinding beans to tamping and brewing, a super-automatic machine handles the entire process for you.

How does a super-automatic espresso machine work?

These machines feature a built-in grinder that grinds your coffee beans just before brewing. The machine then automatically tamps the coffee and brews it into a cup or mug.

Some machines also have features like milk frothing and dispensing, used to create lattes, cappuccinos, and other espresso-based drinks.

What are the benefits of owning a super-automatic espresso machine?

One of the most significant benefits of owning a super-automatic is that it requires little effort to operate, making it ideal for busy mornings or for making multiple drinks quickly.

It also eliminates the need to visit a coffee shop, saving time and money. Additionally, many models come with programmable settings to allow for the customization of your coffee.

What maintenance is required for a super-automatic espresso machine?

Like any other appliance, this type of machine needs to be cleaned regularly to maintain optimal performance.

Most models have automatic cleaning systems that flush out any leftover coffee and keep the machine free of residue. It is also recommended to clean the milk frothing wand after each use to prevent clogs or bacterial growth.