Best Budget Espresso Machines
If you're looking for an espresso maker, select one that can make rich, flavorful shots and that steams milk well. Certain machines are fully automated and will do the work for you. However, they typically sacrifice texture and taste.
The De'Longhi Stilosa offers a simple, easy-to-use option that doesn't require much counter space. It's also durable.
Capresso EC50 Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine
The Capresso EC50 Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine strikes an impressive balance between price and quality. It's affordable for novices, but robust and consistent enough to satisfy even seasoned espresso drinkers. It also comes with an incredibly versatile milk frother that can whip up cappuccinos and lattes in minutes.
When you're looking for an espresso maker, take into consideration how often you'll use it and how many people will be drinking your drinks. If you plan to make two or three cups per day, a single shot machine is sufficient. However, if you're planning on serving coffee to guests frequently you might want more capacity.
Certain espresso machines have an integrated grinder, while other require an additional unit. The latter is more convenient, however it also tends to produce less flavorful coffee than the burr grinder.
Choose a model that has PID control. This feature electronically controls the temperature of the boiler, resulting in a more precise and consistent result than a mechanical thermostat.
A transparent water tank lets you to know when to refill it, and the detachable brewing chamber reduces cleaning time. In addition, the machine connects directly to the water supply in your home to ensure a cleaner, more consistent brew.
CASABREWS' 3700Essential is great choice for those looking to start making espresso without spending an excessive amount of money. Its performance isn't at the level of high-end models however, it does a good job of producing strong espresso shots that have lots of flavor and body. Plus, the machine's intuitive interface is easy to navigate.
This espresso maker is a good buy because it has a front-facing, clear dial as well as an adjustable water reservoir of 42 ounces. It also has two frothers, which can be switched between frothing and steaming (the former whips milk for cappuccinos, while the latter injects hot air into milk to make lattes). The design of this particular model's water tank is somewhat annoying: it's hard to refill and difficult to position.
Breville Bambino Plus
The Bambino Plus is a great little machine that gives you the possibility of making cafe-quality espresso and lattes in your home. Coffeee is easy to use and does not require any specific knowledge or expertise in the field of coffee making. This makes it ideal for those who are new to the art of espresso making.
It is equipped with a few characteristics that distinguish it from other entry-level machines. It is equipped with a PID, that helps ensure precise temperatures of the water during extraction. It uses a low pressure pre-infusion technique to extract the maximum flavor from your beans. ThermoJet technology permits a quick heating time. This lets you begin brewing in only three seconds. This can save your 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 creamy, frothy milk to make cappuccinos and lattes. It comes with two different settings for the texture of milk, so you can customize the flavor of your drink. It's not able to create the silky microfoam that you get from a professional blender, but it does offer promising options as a beginner.
While the Bambino Plus is a good small espresso machine, it doesn't have the same bells and whistles as some of Breville's more expensive models. It doesn't come with a hot water spout or steaming via manual and it's only available with filter baskets with pressurized filters in North America. If you already own a grinder that can produce fine espresso grinds it's a great alternative for those looking to get into espresso making at a low cost.
Its gimmicky appearance could put off some people however, the Bambino Plus is built well with real metal and has tight tolerances. It is easy to clean and comes with several built-in reminders to help keep you on track with descaling and cleaning. In just a few weeks, you'll be able to begin saving money on expensive trips to the local coffee shop.
Philips 3200 Series
The Philips 3200 Series fully automatic espresso machine comes with lots of features for the price. It's a great option for anyone looking to cut back on cafe coffeehouse trips and take control of your morning cup of joe. This budget-friendly, all-in-one machine has an integrated grinder and brew system, along with hot water and an automated milk frother. It has a wide selection of drinks that include iced coffee lattes, cappuccinos, and cappuccinos.
The machine is easy to use and maintain. The My Coffee Choice feature allows you to adjust the strength of your beverage to your personal preference. The machine will remember your preferences for each drink. It also has an AquaClean filter that according to the company will keep it free of scale buildup for up to 5,000 cups of coffee.
One downside of this model is that it takes longer to prepare shots than some other models. This isn't an incredibly big issue, but it can make some users uncomfortable. The grinder on this model is also a little coarse, which means you might require grinding it slightly more than other models.
Another benefit is the Philips 3200's programable timer that can be set to automatically begin making coffee at certain time intervals. This is particularly useful for those who have an active schedule. The machine includes a removable drip pan that can be cleaned and removed quickly for faster cleanup. It's important to lubricate the brew unit every two months, and Philips includes a grease tube included with the machine.
Another great feature is the front-loading water tank that makes refilling the machine an easy task. The reservoir can hold up to 1.7 Gallons, and the machine will notify you when it's time to change the filter or add water. The controls are simple to operate and come with an interface that is touchscreen. The display will inform you when your coffee is finished and various lights will signal if there was an error or if the machine is descaled.
Hamilton Beach Espresso Maker
The Hamilton Beach 40715 Espresso Machine is a great option for those who want to get the most for their money. This budget-friendly machine allows you to make use of K-Cups, ground coffee, or espresso pods that are pre-measured. The built-in milk maker allows you to make cappuccinos and lattes that are of a high-quality café. This feature is not typical in machines of this cost.
The 40715 is simple to use and maintain. The patented Slide and Lock Portafilter makes it simple to insert, lock into place, and then take your espresso out. A programmable clock lets you to set a specific time for brewing, so that your espresso is always ready when you want it. The auto-pause-and-serve feature lets you pour your espresso in the middle of brewing.
The 40715's large water tank is an additional benefit. This can help you avoid having to refill your reservoir frequently, which will save you both money and hassle. The machine's filter basket that is removable and dishwasher-safe components make it easy to clean and maintain.
In terms of performance the 40715 performs at par with other machines in this category. The 15-bar Italian pump is able to make a an incredibly flavorful and rich espresso cup, while the adjustable steam control will ensure that your drinks will be perfect each time. The timer that can be programmed and the automatic pause and serve function are additional features that can be beneficial.
While the Hamilton Beach 40715 has many positive attributes but there are a few things to take into consideration prior to buying. One issue is the small boiler capacity, which can cause water to cool down too quickly, and ruin the extraction process. Another concern is the lack of a permanent filter which could mean you need to purchase additional filters in the near future.
If you're in the market for an espresso maker that's brand new, be sure to check out the selection at your local retailer prior to making a decision. You can also make a call to inquire if they have the specific model you're looking for. If you're ordering online, be sure to think about shipping costs and the convenience of picking up your purchase. If you are not happy with your purchase, you can take advantage of the return policy offered by the retailer to exchange it for a different item.