The 11 Best Budget Espresso Machines For Coffee Lovers

Every morning, millions of coffee lovers worldwide look forward to a thick, creamy, delicious espresso to start their day. There is an alternative if the price of your coffee habit is getting out of hand, and you don’t want to spend the money on a costly brewer. There are several inexpensive alternatives to expensive espresso […]

The 11 Best Budget Espresso Machines For Coffee Lovers

Every morning, millions of coffee lovers worldwide look forward to a thick, creamy, delicious espresso to start their day.

There is an alternative if the price of your coffee habit is getting out of hand, and you don’t want to spend the money on a costly brewer.

There are several inexpensive alternatives to expensive espresso machines, including those with built-in milk frothers for lattes and cappuccinos.

It’s a good idea to focus on whether you want an all-rounder, single and double espresso shots, or a full-on cappuccino maker when deciding which budget espresso machine is the best.

I made a list that includes budget-friendly options that, despite their low cost, can be counted on to provide wonderful espresso daily. Let’s get started!

The 11 Best Budget Espresso Machines

The top recommendations for the best budget espresso machine are detailed below, starting with my top choices:

1. Best Overall – Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi

Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi...
  • Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide...

The Nespresso Vertuo is simple to operate and eliminates the guesswork while preparing lattes, cappuccinos, and other beverages.

Given its pod system, it differs significantly from many espresso machines on the list, but if you value easily accessible, budget espresso, it’s worth talking about.

This inexpensive espresso machine uses Nespresso Vertuo capsules rather than freshly ground coffee beans to create espresso.

Also, a sampler pack of the capsules is included to try them out and decide which ones you like most and want to purchase more.

The Nespresso excels in selecting the best inexpensive single-serve espresso brewer through a simple, one-touch operation. Do you prefer a single or double shot of espresso? It’s up to you!

Capacity: 0.24 liters | Material: Plastic | Item Weight: 12.96 pounds | Filter Type: Reusable | Product Dimensions: 12.2 x 9 x 12.3 inches

2. Best for Small Batches – Nespresso Essenza Mini Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi

Nespresso Essenza Mini Coffee and Espresso Machine by...
  • Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or...
  • Quality: 19 bar high pressure pump creates a barista-like...

The Nespresso Essenza Mini can be your top pick if you only use coffee pods. With the help of Nespresso capsules, it is designed to make excellent coffee and is small, stylish, and compact.

It has 2 programmable cup sizes (Espresso & Lungo) and is of unmatched Nespresso quality, all working together to provide the ideal cup every time.

But keep in mind that it’s intended for capsules. This coffee maker is not the best choice if you prefer loose coffee grounds.

Each coffee capsule’s delicate flavors and premium scents are properly extracted by the 19-bar high-pressure pump, producing results similar to those of a barista.

Choose one of three colors to match your décor and room. The tiny device is what makes the world of Nespresso coffee accessible.

Capacity: 0.11 liters | Material: Plastic | Item Weight: 4.35 pounds | Filter Type: Reusable | Product Dimensions: 12.79 x 4.33 x 8.07 inches

3. Best Budget – Hamilton Beach 15 Bar Espresso Machine

Sale
Hamilton Beach 15 Bar Espresso Machine, Cappuccino, Mocha, &...
  • ENJOY CAFÉ-QUALITY ESPRESSO DRINKS AT HOME: The electric...
  • PERFECT ESPRESSO DRINKS EVERY TIME: Prepare lattes and...

Want to buy your first automatic espresso machine for the lowest price possible?

If you don’t want to pay more than $100 to obtain a good shot of espresso with crema on top, the Hamilton Beach espresso machine is worth considering.

There isn’t much better than the Hamilton Beach if you’re looking for a nice budget espresso machine that produces a decent cup of espresso at an incredibly low cost.

Cleaning with warm, soapy water is simple because the drip tray, cup rest, frothing nozzle, filter holder, brew head, and water reservoir are detachable.

Given the quality and cost, it is worth considering!

Capacity: 1.47 liters | Material: Stainless Steel | Item Weight: 9.23 pounds | Filter Type: Reusable | Product Dimensions: 13 x 8.2 x 12.31 inches

4. Best Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine – Coffee Gator Espresso Machine

Sale
Coffee Gator Espresso Machine, Quick-Brew Espresso Maker...
  • CONTROL - This 20 bar pump semi-automatic espresso maker...
  • VERSATILITY - This Italian-designed espresso machine with...

From kettles and canisters to pour overs and French presses, Coffee Gator manufactures various reasonably priced brewing equipment and coffee accessories.

This first-ever Coffee Gator budget espresso maker carries on that tradition. Although it costs less than the bulk of alternatives on the market, it can compete with equipment that costs more.

The Coffee Gator Espresso Machine delivers potent espresso shots. The product’s small size is another major perk, especially for people with limited space.

It is only 5.5 inches broad due to the removable 44-ounce tank being placed behind the espresso machine instead of on the side. More thought was put into the design.

Three buttons—hot water, power, and steam—are located on the front of the display, and a dial to turn on brewing, the steam wand, or the hot water can be found on the side.

Capacity: 1.3 liters | Material: Plastic | Item Weight: 8.23 pounds | Filter Type: Reusable | Product Dimensions: 13.8 x 11.7 x 7.9 inches

5. Best Espresso Machine for Beginners – Capresso EC50 Espresso Machine

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Capresso 117.05 Stainless Steel Pump Espresso and Cappuccino...
  • Note: 1)Too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or...
  • FAST AND CONSISTENT: 15 bar pump stainless-steel lined...

The Capresso EC50 Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine achieve a good mix between affordability and quality.

Even experienced espresso drinkers will appreciate the strong flavor because it’s reasonably priced for beginners.

Even though some users complain that the frothing/steaming wand isn’t the most powerful, the ability to prepare lattes and cappuccinos is a significant plus.

Another advantage is the straightforward front-facing dial, which is user-friendly and a great choice for individuals who want to brew espresso for the first time.

Overall, this device’s value for the money is difficult to match.

Capacity: 1.2 liters | Material: Stainless Steel | Item Weight: 8 pounds | Filter Type: Reusable | Product Dimensions: 11.5 x 7.5 x 11.5 inches

6. Best Stovetop – Bialetti Moka Express Pot

Bialetti Express Moka Pot, 6 -Cup, Aluminum Silver
  • Made in Italy: it is Made in Italy and its quality is...
  • How to prepare the coffee: fill the boiler up to the safety...

Italians have enjoyed this coffee since Bialetti debuted it in 1933; the company is one of the pioneers of the Moka pot-style coffee maker.

The coffee is rich, flavorful, and a great alternative to espresso, even if technically it doesn’t make true espresso because it doesn’t use as much pressure as professional coffee makers.

The product has the advantages of being convenient, small, simple to clean, and reasonably priced.

It comes in sizes ranging from 1 to 18 cups; the 3-cup model makes a great double espresso for one person.

Take it camping and brew espresso with your propane stove, or use it on your stove (confirm compatibility first with ceramic and induction stovetops.

Capacity: 1.42 liters | Material: Aluminum | Item Weight: 1.54 pounds | Filter Type: Reusable | Product Dimensions: 4 x 4 x 9 inches

Tip

A Moka pot is fine for personal usage and, with an additional milk frother, can create lattes and cappuccinos; however, I wouldn’t count on it as the main home coffee maker for a complete family.

7. Best Portable – Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker

WACACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker, Upgrade Version...
  • No battery/electricity need/Manual operation only!...
  • Achieving the perfect espresso shot is far from easy. The...

An interesting portable budget espresso maker, the Wacaco Nanopresso lets you prepare espresso wherever you are.

Even though the cap can be used as a cup, a dependable travel mug or Thermos will be useful, especially for those outside activities like camping and hiking.

Dispense freshly brewed espresso by pressing the piston after putting hot water and ground coffee into the filter basket.

This affordable espresso machine produces just over 2 ounces of espresso at 18 bars of pressure.

The primary disadvantage is that the flavor can vary depending on your grind size. The company advises a fine grind; however, if the grind is too fine, the piston will be hard to press.

Capacity: 0.08 liters | Material: Plastic | Item Weight: 0.74 pounds | Filter Type: Reusable | Product Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.44 x 6.14 inches

Tip

The best results will be achieved with access to hot water, making this tiny espresso maker perfect for campers and frequent travelers.

8. Best Design – De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine

De'Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine, Latte &...
  • Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide...

The Italian word “stilosa” means “stylish.” The De’longhi Stilosa certainly fits that description, especially if you value simplicity.

Simple and ideal for beginners, the display has a single dial that may be turned to the right to brew espresso and the left to steam milk.

It contributes to the machine’s basic design and helps free up counter space that the machine itself is only eight inches wide.

For increased convenience, there is a replaceable 33.8-ounce water tank.

Even though there are plastic parts—a logical result of its low price—the Stilosa holds up well to use and abuse and should last for a very long time, making the expense justified.

Capacity: 1.2 liters | Material: Stainless Steel, Plastic | Item Weight: 9.5 pounds | Filter Type: Reusable | Product Dimensions: 8.07 x 13.5 x 11.22 inches

9. Best Value – SOWTECH Steam Espresso Machine Espresso Maker

SOWTECH Steam Espresso Machine Espresso Maker Cappuccino...
  • EASY TO USE: Single switch knob with indicator light for...
  • BREW LIKE A PRO: Powerful 3.5 bar pressure espresso coffee...

The SOWTECH Espresso Maker is small, reasonably priced, and comes with helpful coffee accessories, including a portafilter, coffee scoop, and a carafe to get you going.

It’s simple to use, especially for a manual machine, making it a wonderful option for coffee drinkers who are sick of drinking drip all the time to try espresso.

Switching between frothing milk and brewing coffee is simple by twisting a single knob on the side of the machine.

Its milk frother isn’t the strongest, but it can make lattes, cappuccinos, and other coffee-based drinks.

It is possible to detach the drop catcher for simple cleaning, but putting the components in the dishwasher is not advised. It is regarded as one of the best affordable espresso machines.

Capacity: 0.24 liters | Material: Stainless Steel | Item Weight: 4.91 pounds | Filter Type: Reusable | Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 7.2 x 13 inches

10. Best Espresso Machine for Milky Coffee – Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine

Sale
Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine, Programmable...
  • Please refer to user guide or user manual or user guide...

The Mr. Coffee Café Barista allows you to create delicious, powerful espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes.

An electric 15-bar pump generates strong pressure during brewing to extract strong, robust flavors. With the easy-to-use espresso maker, anyone can become a coffee expert.

Single or double shots can be selected with a single touch, and milk is automatically frothed using a control knob that can be adjusted.

Fill the milk reservoir and let the café barista decide how much milk is required; the reservoir is removable so that any extra milk not used during the brew may be stored in the refrigerator.

A recipe book is included so you can make spectacular coffee beverages or be inspired to create your recipes while relaxing at home.

Capacity: 0.44 liters | Material: Stainless Steel | Item Weight: 10.37 pounds | Filter Type: Reusable | Product Dimensions: 13.7 x 8.9 x 13.2 inches

11. Best Stainless Steel – Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Espresso Maker

Sale
Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Stainless Espresso Maker,1.2...
  • Stainless-steel espresso machine with 15-bar thermoblock...
  • Dual-wall filter system for excellent crema; froth enhancer,...

The Breville Cafe Roma boasts a 15-bar thermoblock pump, producing outstanding espresso shots like higher-end machines.

It also features an integrated dual-wall filter system that produces a rich crema. Also, the Breville includes more tools than most other machines.

You receive a stainless steel frothing pitcher, a measurement tool, a cleaning tool, and a tamping tool.

The drip tray is cast from a single piece of aluminum and can heat six espresso cups.

While the associated steam wand has no precise temperature or flow control, it can produce high-quality foam and an espresso cup that can compete with others.

Capacity: 1.2 liters | Material: Stainless Steel | Item Weight: 13 pounds | Filter Type: Reusable | Product Dimensions: 9.25 x 9 x 11.75 inches

Quick Comparison Of Top Espresso Machines That Are Cheap

Budget Espresso Machines Capacity Material Item Weight Product Dimensions
Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi 0.24 liters Plastic 12.96 lb. 12.2 x 9 x 12.3 inches
Nespresso Essenza Mini Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi 0.11 liters Plastic 4.35 lb. 12.79 x 4.33 x 8.07 inches
Hamilton Beach 15 Bar Espresso Machine 1.47 liters Stainless Steel 9.23 lb. 13 x 8.2 x 12.31 inches
Coffee Gator Espresso Machine 1.3 liters Plastic 8.23 lb. 13.8 x 11.7 x 7.9 inches
Capresso EC50 Espresso Machine 1.2 liters Stainless Steel 8 lb. 11.5 x 7.5 x 11.5 inches
Bialetti Moka Express Pot 1.42 liters Aluminum 1.54 lb. 4 x 4 x 9 inches
Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker 0.08 liters Plastic 0.74 lb. 2.8 x 2.44 x 6.14 inches
De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine 1.2 liters Stainless Steel, Plastic 9.5 lb. 8.07 x 13.5 x 11.22 inches
SOWTECH Steam Espresso Machine Espresso Maker 0.24 liters Stainless Steel 4.91 lb. 9.2 x 7.2 x 13 inches
Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine 0.44 liters Stainless Steel 10.37 lb. 13.7 x 8.9 x 13.2 inches
Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Espresso Maker 1.2 liters Stainless Steel 13 lb. 9.25 x 9 x 11.75 inches

How to Find the Best Cheap Espresso Machine

The best cheap espresso machines come in many shapes and sizes and employ various brewing techniques, including presses, pour-overs, and straightforward drip makers.

But nothing compares to a coffee machine. It depends on small volumes of water under high pressure.

If you’re looking for one on a tight budget, you’ll have to forgo certain bells and whistles and focus on getting the most fundamental espresso-making capabilities.

Here are several indicators to watch out for.

  • Sturdy Construction: It would be best to ram a pressured jet of boiling water into a constrained area. You’ll want to ensure your coffee maker can survive this as its priority. The quality of your coffee will suffer if your espresso maker cannot consistently deliver the proper pressure. If you aren’t brewing espresso, what’s the point of buying an espresso maker? The best programmable coffee makers on the market today are listed here.
  • How Easy Is It to Clean?: No matter how effective a machine is, you will eventually need to clean it. Nobody likes to deal with an espresso machine that is difficult to clean, and we mean nobody. Especially if you need to clean and maintain it regularly, find an inexpensive espresso machine constructed of stainless steel or other durable materials. The most affordable espresso machines have removable, machine-washable parts for simple cleaning. Others might have detachable water tanks that only need warm water and soap. Keep an eye out for the instructions with your espresso maker since many of them will describe how to clean the tubes and spouts. Read up on the cleaning instructions before you buy if you’re unwilling to put in extra effort because some machines may need more complicated maintenance. Here is a list of the best latté machines available right now.
  • Do You Need a Steam Wand?: Cheap espresso machines with a built-in milk frother or a manual steam wand are available. Since you may utilize these features to prepare a latte or cappuccino, your machine is more adaptable, thanks to these accessories. Find out which wheatgrass juicer is the finest on the market.
  • Ability to Froth: A coffee maker that can also froth milk expands the range of coffee drinks you may create, but it also adds another thing to clean and maintain. The absence of a frothing option shouldn’t be a deal-breaker because other appliances can be used to froth milk, especially if you like the device’s other features. However, having a milk frother built into the machine eliminates the need to purchase a separate milk frother and ensures it is always available.
  • Single or Double Espresso Shot: Each machine has a set capacity for cups and can only generate several shots—typically a single or double shot of espresso. A single-shot machine can be just what you need if you plan to use the machine mostly for your morning routine and rarely serve it to visitors. A double-shot machine will reduce the time you spend making espresso and look good on your counter if you frequently host events where espresso is served.
  • Ease of Use: Nobody wants to be intimidated by a machine’s confusing-looking buttons. Some espresso makers are easy to use, while others have numerous options to customize your brew. There is a choice for you—consider what you prefer. Whether you enjoy testing with various functions or are content to add coffee and let the machine handle the rest, there is a solution. Espresso makers are pretty easy to use, even if you’ve never used one. After a few lessons, you’ll become an expert at pressing coffee, steaming milk, and frothing it.
  • Machine Size: There are several different sizes of coffee machines. This is advantageous because not every kitchen counter will have much room. In light of the potential size of your kitchen counter, you should examine the size. Do you prefer a smaller, more space-saving machine, or are you fine with a larger one? Other cheap espresso machines are truly portable due to their size. You could even make a cup of your preferred espresso at work if you wanted to.
  • How Many Cups Can It Produce at Once?: Along with size, capacity should be a consideration. With the water it can hold, will it produce one cup or several cups of hot coffee? The greater your espresso maker’s capacity, the more cups it can brew. For instance, espresso makers with a 1.5-liter water capacity have enough to make 12 cups of espresso. Therefore, before selecting a machine based on your preferred capacity, consider how much espresso you plan to brew at a time and how frequently you want to add water.
  • Can It Grind Coffee Beans?: Extra functions like grinding coffee beans for you might raise the cost of an espresso machine. Generally speaking, cheap espresso machines may not have this capability. It’s still something to think about. You could appreciate the ease and extra features if you don’t own a separate coffee grinder. However, you can also save money on your equipment using a manual coffee grinder on your preferred espresso beans.
  • How Many Bars of Pressure Can It Deliver?: Commercial espresso machines are not like regular coffee makers, which only require the addition of water to produce the beverage. More pressure must be added to give the espresso its velvety and flavorful texture. The flavor is more intense the higher the pressure. Look at cheaper machines that use 15 or even 20 bars. The intensity of the flavor you want ultimately depends on your personal preferences.
  • Budget: Naturally, the best budget espresso machines on the market are the subject of this list. As a result, they might not meet all your requirements for an excellent espresso machine. In general, you want to invest in the highest quality you can afford here if the espresso machine is good quality and offers more value than the price. It always seems to bite you if you compromise on quality and the qualities you want the most to save money.

What Do Bars of Pressure Mean?

While looking for espresso equipment, this slogan appears everywhere. Certain manufacturers claim their products have 15 bars of pressure, 20 bars, etc.

What does all of this mean? To begin with, a bar is a measure of pressure. The water that flows through the coffee grounds is under more pressure the more bars an espresso maker has.

However, this does not imply that an espresso machine with more bars is superior. In actuality, anything above 15 bars is unnecessary.

Although the logic may seem a little complex, I’ll explain it.

Coffee experts discovered about a century ago that brewing espresso with 9 bars of pressure at the group head results in the greatest flavor.

A good espresso machine needs a 15-bar pump to create 9 bars of pressure. Because of this, 15-bar espresso machines are the norm in the business.

It only utilizes 9 bars of pressure at the group head, the same as a 15-bar machine, even if you see a budget machine promoted as 19 or 20 bars.

What Does a Portafilter Do?

The portable basket connecting to the espresso machine’s group head to brew is a portafilter, sometimes known as a “group handle.”

They are a typical tool baristas use when creating espresso in cafés, and most coffee enthusiasts will be familiar with them.

Portafilters can be manufactured of stainless steel or plastic, with the latter preferable.

They can also be non-pressurized, which gives the user more control during brewing, or pressurized, which is best for beginners.

Typically, a portafilter is included with the purchase of an espresso maker. However, customers can always upgrade by purchasing an additional portafilter.

Are Cheap Espresso Machines Worth It?

Finely ground coffee beans are “expressed” through hot water under high pressure to create a concentrated coffee version of espresso.

To do it, typically, you need the best espresso machines. The outcome is a rich, creamy espresso and slightly more caffeinated than a typical cup of coffee.

Even with the best affordable espresso machine, I believe it is possible to produce a high-quality shot of espresso.

Remember that these espresso makers frequently feature high-quality steel in their construction, milk frothers, steamers, coffee grinders, automatic brew, and cleaning, among other features that can effectively drive the price.

Therefore, a budget espresso machine can be the correct choice if you’re okay with simple espresso makers producing a tasty espresso without all the fancy bells and whistles.

But what characteristics should you consider before making a significant choice?

Budget Espresso Machines FAQs

  • Which budget espresso machine is the best choice for you? Here are some things to remember:

  • What's the Lifespan of a Budget Espresso Machine?

    With regular usage, inexpensive home espresso machines last three to five years. This longevity can be extended even further with infrequent use.

    High-quality (and hence more expensive) household machines can endure for twelve to fifteen years.

  • Is a Used Espresso Machine Worth It?

    The environment should purchase secondhand espresso machines.

    Reusing old, working machinery is significantly more environmentally friendly than purchasing new ones because it decreases landfill trash.

  • Summary

    Here is a summary of my top selections for the finest inexpensive espresso machines:

    Best Budget – Hamilton Beach 15 Bar Espresso Machine

    The Hamilton Beach is a cheap espresso machine with all its plastic parts, but it can make a good cup of coffee if you spend enough time perfecting your coffee grounds.

    High-quality espresso and top-notch crema may be produced using this machine. I advise testing this out before choosing anything more expensive.

    Most other machines on the market are often more expensive than this Hamilton Beach espresso maker.

    You can get the best budget espresso machine for the same amount a person would spend at a local coffee shop for just two weeks. This is undoubtedly another benefit!

    Repairing it won’t be difficult because spare parts are widely available everywhere. The durability is generally pretty good.

    Best for Small Batches – Nespresso Essenza Mini Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi

    I did a lot of research on espresso pod makers, and this one consistently scored highly for taste and temperature consistency across a wide range of consumer review websites.

    The Nespresso Essenza is still quite nice and convenient. Convenience is the whole point of the pod makers. This is one of the best cheap espresso machines on the market today.

    You may set the length of the single shot of espresso and lungo to running water, which is a cool feature of this machine.

    This espresso maker is great for a single coffee drinker as the water container is tiny. You must replace the water more frequently if you’re a couple.

    I appreciate this coffee maker’s compact design, practicality, and espresso flavor. For people who live in apartments, I would, without a doubt, recommend it.

    Best Overall – Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Machine by De’Longhi

    The Nespresso Vertuo has a small footprint, and it looks adorable. There are numerous coffee sizes and design possibilities. It is very simple to use and learn.

    A precise cup of coffee can be made with this Nespresso machine. You should consider this if you like unwinding and enjoying outstanding coffee.

    You don’t need to grab a hot capsule like you would with other devices because the capsules eject themselves.

    The milk frother is an excellent addition and significantly less expensive when purchased with the appliance. It immediately creates a lovely foam and is easy to use and clean.

    I truly recommend this espresso machine. It is worth the cost; this is my top pick overall.

    Conclusion

    These eleven budget espresso machines are a wonderful place to start if you love espresso but don’t want to spend a fortune on your next machine.

    Ultimately, your preferences will determine the best budget espresso machine (like how rich you want the espresso, maintenance, and longevity.)

    Consider purchasing a machine like the Nespresso Vertuo if you want a higher-quality espresso maker that will last longer, be constructed with superior materials, and cost more.

    Most budget espresso machines produce high-quality espresso with surprisingly good crema and foam and are compact, making space-saving much simpler.

    There is always an espresso machine for you, regardless of your budget. Happy shopping!