How to Choose an Espresso Machine

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The short answer: decide how much of the process you want to do yourself, then budget for the grinder as well as the machine. Most disappointing home espresso comes from a mismatch between those two choices, not from a bad machine.

Start with how hands-on you want to be

  • Manual and semi-automatic machines: you grind, dose, tamp and start the shot. You get the most control and the steepest learning curve.
  • Machines with a built-in grinder: grinding and dosing are assisted, so setup takes up less counter space. The trade-off is that you usually cannot upgrade the grinder separately.
  • Super-automatic machines: press a button and the machine grinds, brews and sometimes froths milk. They are the easiest to use and give you the least control over the shot.

Budget for the grinder

Espresso needs a fine, even grind that can be adjusted in small steps. Many machines do not include a grinder, so the real cost of a setup is the machine plus a grinder plus a few basics such as a scale and a tamper. When you compare prices, compare complete setups, not just machines.

Check the portafilter and baskets

Some machines ship with pressurized baskets, which are forgiving of imperfect grinds, and some use non-pressurized baskets, which reward a better grinder and better technique. Portafilter size also varies by machine, for example 54 mm on the Breville Bambino family and 58 mm on the Gaggia Classic E24, which affects which accessories fit.

Think about milk

  • Mostly black espresso: steaming matters less, and you can prioritize the shot.
  • Mostly lattes and cappuccinos: look at the steam system. Some machines texture milk automatically, while others use a manual steam wand that takes practice.

Measure your counter

Check width, depth and height, plus the clearance for lifting the water tank and the lid. Manufacturers publish dimensions in their manuals, and small differences matter in a tight kitchen.

Plan for upkeep

All espresso machines need regular cleaning and descaling, and some need replaceable parts such as filters or gaskets. Read the maintenance section of the manual before you buy, and check the manufacturer’s warranty terms, which vary by brand and region.

A quick checklist

  • How hands-on do I want to be?
  • Do I have a grinder, or is one in the budget?
  • Which milk drinks will I make most?
  • Does it fit my counter and my water supply routine?
  • What do the manual and warranty say about upkeep and repairs?

Sources and method

We draw on manufacturer manuals and product pages. For example, see the Breville Bambino and Gaggia Classic E24 pages for portafilter sizes.

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