Best Budget Espresso Machines
When you are looking for an espresso machine, you should look for models that produce rich, flavorful shots and that steams milk well. Certain machines are fully automated and do the work for you. However, they usually sacrifice texture and taste.
The De'Longhi Stilosa is an excellent simple choice that is simple to use by beginners and doesn't take up much counter space. It is also durable.
Capresso EC50 Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
The Capresso EC50 Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine strikes an impressive balance between quality and price. It's inexpensive enough to be a great choice for beginners, yet it's robust and stable enough that even experienced espresso drinkers will be able to enjoy its bold flavor. Plus, it includes an adaptable milk frother that can whip up lattes and cappuccinos in minutes.
When shopping for an espresso maker, think about the frequency you'll use it and how many people will be enjoying the drinks. If you plan to make only one or two cups a day, a single-shot espresso maker is sufficient. However, when you plan to serve espresso regularly to guests, you may want a larger capacity.
Certain espresso makers come with an integrated grinder, whereas others require an additional unit. The former is more convenient, however it also tends to produce less tasty coffee than the burr grinder.
Select a model with PID control. This feature electronically controls the temperature of the boiler, which provides a more precise and consistent result than a traditional mechanical thermostat.
A transparent water tank allows you to see when it is time to refill it, and the movable chamber for brewing helps in cleaning. Additionally, the machine connects directly to your home's water supply for an easier, more consistent the brew.
The CASABREWS 3700Essential is another good option for those looking to get started with espresso making without spending a lot of money. It's not as powerful as top-end machines, however it produces strong shots that are packed with flavor and body. Additionally, the machine's intuitive interface is easy to navigate.
This espresso maker is a good purchase because it comes with a front-facing, clear dial and an adjustable water reservoir of 42 ounces. The machine also has two frothers, which can be switched between steaming and frothing (the former whips milk for cappuccinos, while the latter injects hot air into milk to make lattes). The design of the water tank on this model can be annoying. It's difficult to fill and can be awkwardly placed.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus is a great little machine that gives you the ability to make high-quality cafe espresso and lattes in your home. It is simple to use and does not require any specific knowledge or expertise in the art of coffee making. This makes it ideal for people who are new to the art of espresso-making.
It comes with a variety of characteristics that make it distinguish itself from other entry-level machines. For starters, it has a PID that helps to ensure accurate water temperature during extraction. It employs a low-pressure pre-infusion technique to extract the best flavor from your beans. It also has a quick heating time due to its ThermoJet system. This lets you begin the brewing process in only three seconds. This will save you time in the morning when you're trying to get ready.
Another good thing is that the Bambino Plus has a dedicated steam wand that can be used to create smooth, frothy and creamy milk for cappuccinos and lattes. It has two settings for the texture of milk, so you can customize the taste of your drink to your preferences. It's not as smooth, microfoam you get from a professional machine, but it offers promising options as a novice.
While the Bambino Plus is a good little espresso machine, it's not equipped with the same bells and whistles as Breville's more expensive models. It doesn't come with a hot water spout as well as steaming with a manual option. It is only available in North America with pressurized baskets. However, if you have a grinder that can produce a fine espresso grind, this is a great alternative for those looking to start espresso making at an affordable price.
Its gimmicky appearance could be a turnoff for some, but the Bambino Plus is built well with real metal and precise tolerances. It's easy to clean and comes with a few built-in reminders that help you stay on track with decaling and cleaning. You'll begin saving money within a couple of weeks from expensive coffee shop trips.
Philips 3200 Series
The Philips 3200 Series fully automatic espresso machine offers a lot of functionality for the price. This is a great option for anyone looking to cut down on the number of trips they take to coffee shops and have control of how their morning cup coffee is prepared. This budget-friendly, all-in-one machine has an integrated grinder and brew unit, along with hot water and an automatic milk frother. It also has a variety of beverage options, ranging including iced coffee, cappuccinos and lattes.
The machine is easy-to-use and maintain. The My Coffee Choice feature allows you to adjust the strength of your drink to suit your preferences. There are three strengths to select from, and the machine will remember your preferences for each drink. The machine also comes with an AquaClean filter that according to the company will keep it free of scale buildup for up to 5000 cups of coffee.
The model isn't without its flaws in that it takes a bit longer to brew the shots than other models. Although it's not a huge issue, it could make some users uncomfortable. The grinder in this model is also a little coarse, which means you might require grinding it slightly more than other models.
The Philips 3200 also comes with a programmable timer which can be programmed to automatically begin brewing coffee at certain times. This is particularly useful for those who have busy schedules. The machine includes a removable drip pan that can be removed and cleaned easily for a quicker clean-up. It is essential to lubricate the brew unit every two months, and Philips includes a grease tube included with the machine.
The front-loading tank makes it simple to refill the machine. The reservoir can hold up to 1.7 gallon and the machine will even inform you when it's time to change out the filter or add water. The controls are simple to use and have an interface with a touchscreen. The display will inform you when your coffee has been brewed and various lights will signal if there was an error or if the machine needs descaled.
Hamilton Beach Espresso Maker
The Hamilton Beach 40715 Espresso Machine is a fantastic choice for those looking to get the most bang for their buck. This budget-friendly model features the ability to use ground coffee and K-Cups as well as pre-measured soft espresso pods allowing for maximum versatility. The built-in milk frother lets you to make lattes and cappuccinos with the same quality as a café. This feature isn't typical in machines of this price.
The 40715 is easy to use and maintain. The unique Slide and Lock Portafilter makes it easy to insert the filter, lock it in place, and then remove your espresso. A programmable clock allows you to set a certain time frame for brewing, ensuring that your espresso will always be ready when you want it. The auto-pause-and-serve feature allows you to pour your espresso in the middle of brewing.
The 40715's large water tank is a further benefit. This will save you money Source and time by cutting down on the frequency of refilling your tank. The machine's filter basket that is removable and dishwasher-safe parts make it easy to clean and maintain.
In terms of performance the 40715 performs up to par with other machines in this category. The 15-bar Italian pump is able to make a a rich and flavorful espresso cup, while the adjustable steam control ensures that your coffee will be perfect every time. A programmable clock as well as an automatic pause-and-serve function are both beneficial features.
While the Hamilton Beach 40715 has many positive aspects however, there are some things to take into consideration prior to buying. One drawback is the small boiler capacity, which can cause water to cool down too quickly, and ruin the extraction process. A permanent filter isn't included, so you may require purchasing additional filters in future.
Before making a purchase take a look at the models at your local retailer. You can call ahead and ask whether the model you're looking for is in stock. If you are ordering online, make sure to consider shipping costs and the ease of picking up your order. If you're not satisfied with your purchase, you can take advantage of the return policy provided by the retailer to exchange it for a different item.